April 28, 2023

A Leonardtown man and woman have been arrested and charged by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office on several charges of Sex Abuse of a Minor, Neglect of a Minor and Second-Degree Rape.

Following an investigation by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Investigations Division, Brian Joseph Wiegman, age 45 of Leonardtown, has been arrested and charged with two counts of Sex Abuse of a Minor and one count of Neglect of a Minor.

Wiegman’s girlfriend, Stormy Shiree Bates, age 39 of Leonardtown, has been arrested and charged with three counts of Second-Degree Rape, three counts of Sex Abuse of a Minor and one count of Neglect of a Minor.

Both Wiegman and Bates are being held at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown on a no-bond status.

 As part of Preservation Month. which begins May 1, the Maryland Historical Trust will present 10 awards for noteworthy accomplishments in the preservation field, recognizing outstanding education, restoration and revitalization projects, as well as organizational and individual leadership.  

The 48th annual Maryland Preservation Awards, selected by the Maryland Historical Trust’s Board of Trustees, will be celebrated in local events and live streamed to the Maryland Historical Trust’s social media through early June, with the first event on May 2, 2023. For a list of the events, go to tiny.cc/MHT-Events.  

The following people, places, and programs will receive awards in 2023:

Calvert Prize – Dr. Cheryl Janifer LaRoche, PhD (Montgomery County). Receiving the Maryland Historical Trust’s most honored prize, Dr. Cheryl Janifer LaRoche has distinguished herself as a statewide visionary throughout her career as an archaeologist, preservationist, and professor focused on the stories of the African diaspora. She has helped advance the missions of the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture and numerous historical sites through her service, advocacy, education, and community engagement.    

Outstanding Individual Leadership at the Local Level – C. Sylvia Brown & Eddie C. Brown (Baltimore City). Sylvia and Eddie Brown have exhibited an extraordinary level of philanthropy over decades, opening doors and making significant strides in preserving the history of Baltimore City through important projects such as Solomon’s Corner and the Ivy Hotel.  

Outstanding Organizational Leadership at the Local Level – Water's Edge Museum, Bellevue Passage Museum, and UNESCO Middle Passage Marker (Talbot County). The Water’s Edge Museum, Bellevue Passage Museum, and the UNESCO Middle Passage Marker showcase the full breadth of the American story in Oxford and Bellevue, MD, with a focus on the founding Black families of Maryland, Black entrepreneurship and history in the region, and the context of the international slave trade. These three sites work together to give people an immersive experience, where they are empowered to discuss the past and the future in a safe space.  

Excellence in Community Engagement – Michael Hunter Thompson for “Fade to Blue” (Allegany County). Michael Hunter Thompson created a community-wide, collective moment of cultural and historical preservation in Cumberland by bringing together thousands of people tied to one site – the Allegany High School at Campobello – through photography, oral history, exhibit curation, and book creation. 

Outstanding Stewardship of a Maryland Historical Trust Easement Property – City of Hagerstown for Hagerstown Fairgrounds Entrance Building and Keeper's Residence (Washington County). The City of Hagerstown has worked diligently to save and rehabilitate the long-vacant Hagerstown Fairgrounds Entrance Building and Keeper’s Residence, the last remaining vestiges of the early fairgrounds. The City’s timely response to their deterioration ensures a bright future for these significant and picturesque buildings.  

Outstanding Stewardship by a Government Agency – City of Gaithersburg for Crown Farm Corn Crib (Montgomery County). In 2020, the City of Gaithersburg took ownership of the dilapidated Crown Farm Corn Crib and, despite its poor condition, worked with Thaler Reilly Wilson Architecture & Preservation and contractor G-W Management Services LLC to save 75% of the historic fabric. This barn will be a focal point of a three-acre park in the city, an exciting addition to the agricultural interpretation of Gaithersburg’s history.  

Excellence in Commercial Rehabilitation – Historic Howard House (Howard County). Now used for rental apartments and small businesses, the Historic Howard House in Old Ellicott City benefited from a beautiful and detailed rehabilitation based on historic photographs. This project received a small commercial tax credit through the Maryland Historic Revitalization Tax Credit program, as well as a federal historic tax credit. 

Excellence in Institutional Rehabilitation – The Peale Center for Baltimore History and Architecture (Baltimore City). The nation’s oldest museum buildings and a National Historical Landmark, the Peale Center completed a significant rehabilitation and is now reopened to the public. Today, they host exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and a workforce development program to help recruit a diverse new generation of preservationists.  

Excellence in Historic Preservation & Sustainable Design – Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park (Washington County). For years the 0.9-mile stretch of the C&O Canal between McMahon’s Mill and Lock 42 dealt with a weakening wall, sinkholes, washout, and slope failures. Faced with a changing environment and the need for creative and sustainable choices, this project found long-term, sustainable solutions to ensure future generations will continue to learn and enjoy the C&O Canal in its historical context.  

Project Excellence: Preservation Partnerships – The Union Mills Flume Restoration Project at Historic Shriver Grist Mill (Carroll County). The Union Mills Flume Restoration Project was a partnership between the County Commissioners of Carroll County, the Union Mills Homestead Foundation, and B. E. Hassett-Millwrights to restore the flume at the 225-year-old mill to working condition, enabling water delivery from the millrace to the mill’s waterwheel, delighting tourists and bringing visitors to the site.

On April 27 at 11:18 a.m., the School Resource Officer and administrators at Gale Bailey Elementary School began investigating a potential threat after they were notified that, while on a video chat that took place the evening before, a student displayed firearms to other students and made a statement that they were going to shoot up the school. A home visit was conducted and the firearms were determined to be BB guns. In accordance with Maryland law, the student will not face criminal charges due to their age; however, the school resource officer did notify the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services to provide services as needed. The student faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Cpl. Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0479. The investigation is ongoing.

On April 27 at 2:16 p.m., the School Resource Officer and administrators at General Smallwood Middle School were notified that a student had ingested a gummy earlier in the day containing suspected THC which had been given to them by another student. The student felt ill and went home, and was later taken to a hospital for evaluation. As officers continue their investigation to determine where the student got the edible, parents are urged to talk to their children about the dangers of ingesting foods or liquids that contain dangerous substances.

Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Barry at 301-609-3282 ext. 0574 or the Charles County Public Schools' See Something, Say Something online confidential reporting tool posted at https://www.ccboe.com/community/see-something-say-something. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may also contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).

April 27, 2023

On Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at 10:08 pm, two masked men entered the Birdies convenience store at the 24600 block of Three Notch Road in Hollywood. The two suspects pointed a handgun at store employees, demanding money from the registers. The suspects removed currency from the registers and fled on foot.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Deputies and K-9 Unit responded to the scene and the Criminal Investigations Division is continuing the investigation.

Anyone with cellphone video or images who was present at the scene is asked to visit the Sheriff’s Office’s Citizen Upload Video Upload Portal at https://www.firstsheriff.com/uploadevidence/ Videos can be provided anonymously through the portal.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to contact Detective David Lawrence at 301-475-4200, ext. 78130 or email david.lawrence@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) will host a Public Forum on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the CSMC meeting room in the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown.

Public Forums allow residents to speak directly to the Commissioners on topics of their choosing. Residents may offer appreciation, questions, or suggestions in a mutually respectful format. Those wishing to speak at the forum will receive up to three minutes to address the Commissioners.

In lieu of in-person attendance, residents may also submit a video of their comments to publicmtgs@stmarysmd.com. Video submissions must be three minutes or less in length and be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 2023.

Anyone wishing to provide more detailed feedback to the CSMC can do so at any time via:

• Email to: csmc@stmarysmd.com
• Mail to: Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, PO Box 653, Leonardtown, MD, 20650

Commissioners of St. Mary’s County Public Forums are televised live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) TV Channel 95 and streamed live on the St. Mary’s County YouTube Channel.

On Tuesday, April 25, Commissioners received a briefing on the state of emergency services in Charles County, from 2017-2022. Director Michelle Lilly and Deputy Director Tony Rose provided an overview of total calls, volunteer versus career response to calls and provision of transports, peak hours analysis, and disparate impacts in different parts of the county as service calls increase. Staff provided examples of how disparities in coverage affect the department’s capacity to respond to increasingly complex and competing calls for service throughout the county.

The Department of Emergency Services presented data on how growing demands are affecting both staff and volunteers. They explained how the increased demands for service have stretched the staff, resources, and assets of the department beyond its capacity to effectively respond to emergencies. Staff reviewed the current budgetary request for more employees and funding, and discussed how these resources would be deployed to deliver more equitable outcomes that meet the needs of all county residents. They also shared projections on additional staffing that will be necessary in the future to provide efficient and effective services as Charles County continues to grow.

Proposed Fiscal 2024 Budget

The Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services staff reviewed the proposed Fiscal 2024 General Fund budget and provided a recap of the Fiscal 2024-2028 Governmental Capital Improvement Projects. On Wednesday, April 26, County Commissioners also met and conferred with the Town of La Plata and Town of Indian Head on the Fiscal 2024 Tax Differential. For detailed information on the proposed Fiscal 2024 Budget, read the full news release here.

Open Session Briefings

• Consultants for the Department of Planning and Growth Management presented the draft Bryans Road Sub-Area Plan, as recommended by the Planning Commission. The Plan will guide future land use decisions in the Bryans Road area by establishing a land use plan that creates four distinct neighborhoods, adds opportunity for senior housing and recreational facilities, preserves rural areas, and protects the culture and history in Bryans Road. They discussed the project’s community engagement activities and shared the public’s feedback on future growth and redevelopment. They analyzed potential constraints to commercial investment and attraction of retail amenities, and discussed population growth targets and infrastructure that are essential to move forward.
• Charles County Public Schools staff presented an update on the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. They discussed each of the pillars embedded in the public education plan and summarized the government funding required to implement each of the initiatives.
• Staff from the Department of Public Works and the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism provided a briefing on Keep Charles County Beautiful initiatives. They highlighted efforts to clean up litter along highways, special events to engage volunteers in community cleanups, and additional outreach on litter prevention.
• Planning and Growth Management staff presented a summary and analysis of the proposed school allocations for the 2023 cycle. Commissioners approved the proposed allocations, which will serve as a basis for making allocation offers to eligible projects on the waiting list. 

Legislative Update

Associate County Attorney II Danielle Mitchell and G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc., provided a review of legislative bills and the Commissioners’ legislative priorities from the 2023 Maryland General Assembly Session.

Updates included:

• An overview of the major legislative issues, including the budget, education, broadband, public safety, economic development, and reforming cannabis policies.
• A review of nearly $4 million in bonds and grants that were allocated to Charles County for local projects and nonprofit programs.
• Results of local bills submitted by the Charles County Delegation, and summary of other legislation of interest to Charles County Commissioners.

Approval Items

Commissioners also approved:

• A budget amendment increase of $10 million to recognize that the County is taking the standard revenue loss allowance allowed under the ARPA final rule.  The County will recognize the use of funds towards the Department of Emergency Services and set up a capital improvement project pay-go budget for stormwater projects. A second budget amendment increase for $10 million will be designated to pay for stormwater management and drainage projects in the Watershed Restoration and Protection Fund.
• A budget amendment increase of $375,000 for the County Attorney’s Office to pay for additional costs associated with the Declaratory Judgement lawsuit.
• A budget amendment increase of $25,500 to reimburse the sworn overtime funds to enhance school security during February.
• A budget transfer request of $257,370 for anticipated overruns in solid waste management personnel costs related to additional holiday pay and to open additional cells and maintenance for other cells at the landfill.
• A budget transfer request of $320,000 due to a project cancellation of evaluation and preliminary engineering work on an underground water and sewer project.
• A budget amendment increase of $43,200 for the Sheriff to use donations for support of youth sports camps, teen court, National Night Out, and other outreach.
• A local match of $78,181 to be allocated from unspent county funds within the Department of Social Services to support the Summer SNAP benefits program.
• A change to the cut-off date for use of employee compensatory time that is carried over annually, so that it matches the calendar year instead of the fiscal year.
• A fiber optics sale and maintenance agreement and a public-private partnership fiber network agreement with ThinkBig Networks, LLC, for the Nanjemoy Broadband project.

Recognition

Commissioners recognized all employees who achieved milestones in years of county service in January 23.

Public Hearings

On Tuesday, April 25, County Commissioners held two public hearings. The first public hearing was held to receive comments on Bill 2023-02 Maryland Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy Program. The second public hearing was held to receive comments on the Docket 90 Amendment for the Wooded Glen and Piney Reach Master Plan. Commissioners voted to adopt Bill 2023-02 and kept the record open for an additional 60 days for further public input on the Docket 90 Amendment.

On Wednesday, April 26, County Commissioners held a public hearing on the Fiscal 2024 Constant Yield. County Commissioners also held a public hearing on Fiscal 2024 Operating Budgets, Fiscal 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Program, and Proposed Fees, Rates, and Charges. Commissioners closed the public hearing and kept the record open until May 5, 2023.

Next Commissioners Session: May 2 and 3, 2023 

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

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On Tuesday, April 18, Director of Fiscal and Administrator Services Jeni Ellin and Chief of Budget Jacob Dyer presented the county’s proposed fiscal 2024 budget of $525,258,100, an increase of 6.2 percent over last year. The proposed budget does not increase the current property tax rate or income tax rate, while making investments in core programs and services.

The General Fund budget includes increased support for public education and public safety; finances county infrastructure improvements; provides for merit and cost-of-living increases; and embeds equity throughout the proposed budget, to ensure improved outcomes for everyone in the community.

General Fund budget highlights include:

• $6.08 million increase for Charles County Public Schools, which fully funds the Charles County Board of Education’s request, exceeds maintenance of effort, and provides new funding associated with the Blueprint for Maryland’s future. The total allocation, which also includes funding for the Charles County Public Library and College of Southern Maryland, is $234.94 million, or 44.8 percent, of the General Fund budget.
• $12.73 million increase for the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, with a total allocation of $120.72 million, or 23 percent of the General Fund budget. Four new positions are being proposed, including two new sworn officers; and funds have been added to pay for the body worn camera program, which will be required by state law beginning July 1, 2025.
• $10.15 million increase for County Government operations. The total allocation is $88.88 million, or 16.9 percent, of the General Fund budget. New positions are being proposed to add emergency medical technicians, enhance staffing in recreation services; information technology; planning; public works and economic development, and support recruitment efforts in the human resources department.
• A total allocation of $19.13 million, or 3.6 percent, for other government functions including the State’s Attorney’s Office, Health Department, Circuit Court, Election Board, and other local government agencies.

The proposed fiscal year 2024-28 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget is $458.75 million. It provides for county infrastructure including schools, county buildings, roads, parks, water and sewer facilities, and stormwater management. A detailed summary of the CIP budget is located here which includes capital funding to support the first school based health center in Charles County at Indian Head Elementary School.

Public comments were received on the proposed constant yield tax rate and the proposed fiscal 2024 budget on Wed, Apr. 26. The record will be kept open until Friday, May 5, to receive comments on the proposed general fund and capital operating budgets and the constant yield tax rate. Commissioners will discuss additions and changes to the budget on May 9, and the Fiscal 2024 Budget is scheduled for final adoption on May 16. More information is available at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov.

April 27, 2023

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the whereabouts of Caitlin Ann Mossbarger, age 33 of Park Hall, for violating the terms of her Pre-Trial release with the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown for a district court case for Driving on a Suspended License. Mossbarger’s whereabouts are currently unknown, but she is believed to be in the Lexington Park area.

Anyone with information on Mossbarger’s whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Joseph Bowling at 301-475-4200, ext. 71959 or email joseph.bowling@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

During the week of April 17 – April 23, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,954 calls for service throughout the community.

Commercial Burglary: 23-26817

The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a commercial burglary that occurred at the King Smoke tobacco shop located at 4955 St. Leonard Road in St. Leonard. The burglary occurred on Monday, April 17, 2023 around 3:40 a.m. Investigation revealed an unknown (s) suspect forced entry into the business and began smashing display cases then rummaged through the entire building. The suspect was wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans, dark shoes, and gloves. The estimated value of stolen property is over $10,000.00.

Damaged Property: 23-27449

On April 20, 2023, DFC Gilmore responded to the parking lot of the North Beach Senior Apartments located at 8933 Chesapeake Avenue in North Beach, for the report of damaged property. Investigation revealed sometime between April 18^th at 4:10 p.m. and 10 a.m. on April 20^th, an unknown suspect (s) keyed the victim’s vehicle parked in the rear lot. Large intentional scratches were observed on the driver’s side of the vehicle. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,500.00.

Property Destruction: 23-26918

On April 17, 2023, Deputy Mister responded to the area of Sansbury Drive and Clear Spring Drive in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of property destruction. Investigation revealed a marked Anne Arundel County police vehicle had been egged. Damage to the windshield, front passenger window, headlight, and hood of the vehicle was observed as a result of the dried yolk. The estimated value of damaged property is unknown at this time.

Property Destruction: 23-27038

On April 18, 2023, DFC Grierson responded to the 7900 block of Delores Court in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised her vehicle was egged sometime in the overnight hours. Further investigation revealed four additional vehicles had been egged and damaged. The estimated value of damaged property is $2,000.00.

Theft: 23-27941

On April 21, 2023, DFC Kwitowski responded to Safe Harbor Zahnisers Marina located at 245 C Street in Solomons, for a report of theft.  Investigation revealed an unknown suspect (s) stole approximately $40,000-$50,000 worth of cooper wire from a job site sometime between 10 p.m. on April 20^th and 3:15 a.m. on April 21^st. The investigation is ongoing.

ARRESTS

On April 17, 2023, Deputy Hendrickson initiated a traffic stop in the parking lot of the Weis located at 210 Village Center Drive in Lusby, for a motor vehicle violation. Upon making contact with the driver, Craig Michael Ringler, 41 of Lusby, a strong odor of marijuana was emitting from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed controlled dangerous substances to include Percocet, Suboxone, and raw marijuana along with CDS paraphernalia was located inside the vehicle. Ringler was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

On April 22, 2023, Deputy Hendrickson initiated a traffic stop along SB Rt. 4 in the area of West End Blvd. in St. Leonard, for a traffic violation. Contact was made with the driver, Christopher Kinard Gaynor, 44 of California, MD. Further investigation revealed, 52.1 grams (1.8 oz) of crack cocaine, 20.2 grams of marijuana, a digital scale and 3 cellular phones were located inside the vehicle. Gaynor was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

On April 23, 2023, Deputy Hudson responded to the Safeway located at 80 W. Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick for the report of trespassing. Upon arrival, contact was made with a suspect laying down in the front of the store. The individual was identified as Marvin Charles Dickerson, Jr., 30 of no fixed address. The complainant advised Dickerson stole $50.25 in store merchandise. Investigation revealed Dickerson had been previously trespassed from the establishment indefinitely. Dickerson was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property and Theft Less than $100.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at (410) 535-2800 and reference the case number provided. Citizens may remain anonymous thru the ‘Submit a Tip’ feature on the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office mobile app. To download, visit https://apps.myocv.com/share/a39520678 . Tipsters may also email ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov

Quartermaster 3rd Class Arianna Granville, a native of Waldorf, Maryland performs preventative maintenance on one of the ship's binoculars known as 'big eyes" with Quartermaster 3rd Class Isaac Diaz, a native of Pasadena, California aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4). Boxer is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship homeported in San Diego.

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Roland Ardon)

A new report shows a mix of good and bad findings for air quality in Maryland. The American Lung Association recently released its annual State of the Air Report, and while some areas of the state showed improvement, metro Washington-Baltimore was ranked 26th worst for ozone pollution out of 227 metro areas in the nation. Four area counties -- Prince Georges, Anne Arundel, Baltimore and Harford -- received a failing grade for ozone. The report shows the number of unhealthy air quality days for ozone in the metro area was 6-point-7, which is unchanged from the year prior. Ozone, often called smog, is produced mainly by burning fossil fuels and has both short- and long-term health impacts. On a more positive note, overall the number of unhealthy ozone days for the state dropped. Aleks Casper with the American Lung Association says it's still important to promote policies that improve air quality.
"While areas can show slight improvements, progress is not always guaranteed. And so we really need to focus on policies to make sure that we're doing the best we can to improve air quality."
The report showed ozone pollution generally improved nationwide. The Lung Association attributes that improvement to the success of the Clean Air Act. For a look at air quality in your area, you can visit airnow.gov.
The report also covers particle pollution, with metro Washington-Baltimore showing worse numbers this year. The metro area was given a C grade for short-term particle pollution, although Casper points out that the state has made recent moves to improve air quality.
"Maryland has made some great announcements in the last couple of weeks about looking at adopting Advanced Clean Cars II, which would cover passenger vehicles, and the bill that passed the Legislature around advanced clean-trucks implementation, so looking at medium- to heavy-duty trucks."
 In March, Governor Wes Moore announced Maryland would join the multi-state Advanced Clean Cars II rule which requires manufacturers to continuously increase the percentage of electric vehicles sold in the state, reaching 100 percent of passenger cars and light trucks by 2035.

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) continues to receive public inquiry related to MSDE’s process for reporting assessment data on the Maryland Report Card. These inquiries remain rooted in inaccurate information. To dispel inaccurate and misleading public reports – and to ensure the public has access to full, complete, and accurate information, MSDE is making available correspondence and information that further explains assessment data, assessment data reporting, and proper data suppression to protect personally identifiable student information.

Specifically, please reference the following:

·         Data Suppression Requirements 2023

·         Maryland State Department of Education Letter from Superintendent Choudhury to Maryland General Assembly Delegates

·         Letter from Maryland General Assembly Delegates to Superintendent Choudhury, Maryland State Department of Education

Replica Firearm and Suspected Cannabis Recovered from Student: On April 25 at 9:38 a.m., a school administrator at North Point High School became aware a student was possibly in possession of cannabis in their book bag and notified a school resource officer. The bag was recovered at which time over 2.5 ounces of suspected cannabis and a replica semi-automatic firearm, which was determined to be a BB gun, was recovered. The student was arrested on the scene and charged with possession of a dangerous weapon on school grounds and possession of cannabis. The student also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Cpl. Smith at 301-609-3282 ext. 0513.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners then presented proclamations for National Library Week, Afterschool Professionals’ Week, National County Government Month and Administrative Professionals’ Day.

During County Administrator time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Heard a presentation from the Department of Finance and the St. Mary’s Metropolitan Commission reviewing the FY2024 Capital Improvement Budget FY2025-2029 Plan.
• Approved the Department of Public Works and Transportation’s request for a resolution to waive landfill fees for Christmas in April projects, to apply for the Federal Aviation Administration grant, and to reorganize the department in collaboration with the County Administrator, Human Resources, and Finance.
• Approved the Department of Aging & Human Services’ acceptance of the FY23 Federal Older Americans Act from the Maryland Department of Aging in the amount of $462,677.
• Approved the Department of Human Resources actuarial services contract with Bommershine Consulting Group LLC and their Personnel Policy Manual updates.
• Approved the Department of Finance’s changes to the American Rescue plan.
• Approved the updated St. Mary’s County Government Vision, Mission & Values.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC will host a Budget Public Hearing tonight, Tuesday, April 25, at 6:30 p.m. at Chopticon High School.

The CSMC will host their next regular business meeting on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings can be viewed live Tuesday mornings on SMCG Channel 95 or as a replay Friday at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are also available for on-demand viewing on the St. Mary's County Government YouTube Channel.

In accordance with amended authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will follow the new bivalent COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines to simplify the vaccination schedule for most individuals.
 
The updated booster is a formula that both boosts immunity against the original coronavirus strain and also protects against the newer Omicron variants that account for most of the current cases.
 
What has changed:

• Adults age 65 and older and immunocompromised people can get an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose.
• Monovalent (original) COVID-19 mRNA vaccines will no longer be recommended for use in the U.S.
• Individuals 5 years of age and older who are not yet vaccinated are eligible to receive a single dose of the bivalent vaccine as the primary series.

What has not changed:

• Everyone ages 6 years and older are recommended to receive an updated (bivalent) mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals ages 6 years and older who have already received an updated mRNA vaccine do not need to take any action unless they are 65 years or older or immunocompromised.
• For young children, multiple doses continue to be recommended and will vary by age, vaccine, and which vaccines were previously received.

“These updated recommendations will simplify the vaccine schedule and hopefully encourage community members to stay up-to-date with their vaccine,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Moving forward we expect that vaccines may be periodically updated similarly to how we update the flu vaccine annually. This should help community members better protect themselves from the circulating strains of COVID-19.”  
 
COVID-19 vaccines continue to be available at the SMCHD Health Clinic in Leonardtown on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. by appointment only. To make a vaccine appointment, please call SMCHD at 301-475-4330. COVID-19 vaccines are also available through primary care offices and local pharmacies.
 
For more information about COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, please visit smchd.org/coronavirus

- In January 2023, student data was published on The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) website reporting on the past school year’s MCAP standardized testing. Investigative Reporter, Chris Papst of Fox 45’s Project Baltimore News, examined the data and revealed that 23 Baltimore City Schools had zero students proficient in math. The news report went viral and was covered nationally. Shortly after, MSDE took the data down. When the data was reposted in March, much of it is now missing. As a former teacher, Delegate Kathy Szeliga of Baltimore County commented, “Maximum transparency in student and school achievement data is essential for parents, schools, educators, and lawmakers to help improve learning. Hiding the data should not be the response to failing schools.” Delegates from across the state - Arikan, Chisholm, Fisher, Grammer, Kipke, Morgan, Nawrocki, and Szeliga - sent a letter last week to MSDE with deep concerns about the change in student data publication and requested it to be restored. They sent a second letter today. State Superintendent Mohammed Choudhury promptly responded to the delegates’ first letter with a “Statement Addressing the Incorrect and Misleading News Piece from Fox 45 on MCAP Data Reporting.” In the three-page response, MSDE blamed the vendor for publishing the data but never addressed what the data actually showed the public. MSDE says they are using federal requirements to protect the privacy of individual students. However, MSDE has changed the deidentification measures in reporting standardized test scores to be well outside the federal student privacy protection requirements. Also, MSDE is removing data from previous years’ test results. Delegate Matt Morgan of St. Mary’s County said, “MSDE removed an entire column of data showing how many students are proficient in a grade and even hid all the data for a school if the testing group is less than 30 students and/or fewer than five percent of students scored proficient. As a parent of a student graduating from high school this year and a realtor, I know the importance to parents and home buyers of having good information about how schools are doing across our state.” The eight delegates believe the newly revised reporting measures make the data useless, especially in lowperforming schools where this data is critical for improving education. Constituents have contacted these state delegates with significant concerns, and parents want school-level data to know about and make decisions for their children’s education. Delegate Lauren Arikan of Harford County asked, “Why is MSDE not applying the same enhanced deidentification measures to highly performing schools? Suddenly, these new measurement practices do not apply to all schools anymore, just low-performing schools.” Additionally, Arikan commented about MSDE’s actions to go back and change previous years’ achievement data, “This is a precedent we do not want to set for Maryland schools.” The delegates sent a follow-up letter today to Superintendent Choudhury and look forward to his response to these and other vital concerns. 

 In February 2023, detectives assigned to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division were notified of inappropriate sexual contact between a long-term substitute teacher at General Smallwood Middle School and students at General Smallwood Middle School. Upon notification, school administrators removed the teacher, Malcolm Xavier Fluellyn, 26, of Bryans Road, MD, from the school. Through investigation, detectives identified numerous instances in which Fluellyn had inappropriate physical contact with students as well as inappropriate contact via social media and text messages. On April 21, Fluellyn was indicted by a Charles County Grand Jury. He was arrested and charged with 6 counts of sexual abuse of a minor, 8 counts of sexual solicitation of a minor, 12 counts of displaying obscene matter to a minor, and 6 counts of 4th-degree sex offense. On April 24, a judge ordered Fluellyn to be held at the Charles County Detention Center without bond.

Fluellyn was employed with the Charles County Public Schools during the 2022 / 2023 school year and also worked as a substitute teacher for one day at Matthew Henson Middle School in December 2022. There are no allegations from students at that school. Detectives are asking parents to talk with their children about any inappropriate contact or messaging between Fluellyn and students and to call Detective J. Smith at 301-609-6479 if they have additional information. The investigation is ongoing.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Do you have an Advance Healthcare Directive? Is your document up to date? If your answer to either question is no, sign up for Law Day to meet with an attorney and fill one out, free of charge!

Law Day will be held on Friday, May 5, 2023, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Loffler, Garvey, and Northern Senior Activity Centers. Registration is required for this event.

All participating attorneys are members of the St. Mary’s County Bar Association and are donating their time for Law Day. Please note legal support provided at this event is limited to Advance Care Directives ONLY.

An Advance Health Care Directive:

• Identifies your Health Care Agent, the person or persons who will make your health care decisions.
• Decides when your Agent’s power becomes effective.
• States your desires concerning the administration or withholding of life sustaining procedures if you are unable to give instructions regarding your care due to an end-of-life condition.
• Can be customized with your personal instructions and statements.
• Determines pain relief measures to relieve pain and suffering.
• States your wishes concerning organ donation or the donation of your body.
• States your desires and preferences regarding funeral and burial, cremation, memorial service, or other final instructions.

For more information or to register for this event, please contact Sarah Miller at Sarah.Miller@stmaryscountymd.gov or (301) 475-4200, ext. 1073.

For more information on the St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services, including the three Senior Activity Center locations and other programs, please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/aging or follow us on social media at Facebook.com/SMCDAHS.  

The Calvert County Department of Public Works advises citizens that it will begin work this summer on traffic safety improvements to roadway intersections near Hallowing Point Park. The planned improvements are designed to allow safer and quicker access to Hallowing Point Park by addressing traffic safety issues and improving traffic flow.

Public Works completed the first phase of the improvement project in 2020 by constructing a second entrance at the back of Hallowing Point Park to alleviate traffic issues at the main park entrance on MD 231 (Hallowing Point Road). Additional project phases include further modifications to the main park entrance and the intersections of Skipjack Road and MD 231, and Jibsail Drive and MD 231.

Work is expected to begin as early as mid-June and will require the temporary closure of each intersection for several weeks while work is underway; the public will be notified of specific closure dates and detour routes prior to each phase via news release and social media. All work is weather permitting.

Visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/TrafficImprovement for project information and updates.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Replica Firearm and Box Cutter Recovered from Student at Thomas Stone High School: On April 24 at 2 p.m., a school administrator at Thomas Stone High School was alerted that a student was possibly in possession of a gun, which was reportedly thought to be a toy. The school resource officer responded to the classroom and a replica firearm, replica bullets, and a box cutter were recovered from the student. The school resource officer will contact the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office in reference to charges. The student also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Parents are urged to speak with their children about the dangers of possessing weapons or items that could be construed as weapons on school grounds. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact PFC Payne at 301-609-3282 ext. 0452.   

Replica Firearm / Water Gun Recovered from Student at Elementary School: On April 24 at 4 p.m., a school administrator at Billingsley Elementary School was alerted by students that another student was in possession of what appeared to be a gun. The gun, which was determined to be a water gun, was recovered. The school resource officer was notified and contacted the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services. The student faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Parents are urged to speak with their children about the dangers of possessing weapons or items that could be construed as weapons on school grounds. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact PFC Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0580.    

The Maryland State Department of Education would like to address a news piece that aired on Fox 45 on April 17, 2023, concerning the disclosure of MCAP data on the Maryland Report Card website. The news piece omitted key pieces of information about federally required data disclosure avoidance methods and included information that was incorrect and mischaracterized the MSDE and the agency’s intentions. Through this statement, MSDE is providing clarification on this news piece, the U.S. Department of Education’s requirements on data disclosure avoidance methods, and the steps MSDE took to ensure the agency complied with those reporting requirements.

The news piece in question was put together by Fox 45 reporter Chris Papst and aired in the 10:00 p.m. newscast on Fox 45. In the piece, Mr. Papst omitted information that was provided to him by the MSDE on April 10 and April 14 which explains the federally mandated disclosure avoidance methods for reporting student data, the enhancements applied to the post-pandemic release of data, and why certain pieces of data needed to be suppressed. By omitting this information, Mr. Papst manufactured a news piece that implied MSDE was “hiding information from the public” and “staging a cover up.” Not only are these statements inaccurate, but they are entirely baseless as MSDE has been cooperative and transparent in providing Mr. Papst with all the information he asked for.

MSDE staff presented the 2022 MCAP assessment results at the January State Board of Education meeting. For the release of the 2022 MCAP assessment data and for all data released on the Maryland Report Card website, MSDE procured the services of a vendor, The Canton Group. MSDE prepares data for release on-site and provides suppressed data in tables that support dynamic data views and data files available for the public to download. Prior to any data published on the MDreportcard.org website, there is a shared quality assurance process with the vendor and MSDE staff before final sign off from MSDE. In January 2023, an embargoed data download file with MCAP data was provided to the vendor. The file was incorrectly moved to production prior to the Maryland State Board of Education meeting during an overall website enhancement update to the website. The file given to the vendor was embargoed because it used MSDE’s standard data suppression rules in place since 2010. However, to comply with federally required standards, MSDE needed to update these suppression rules and apply additional data disclosure avoidance methods to the data prior to publishing the data.

Mr. Papst gained access to the embargoed data that was prematurely posted by the MSDE web vendor on the Maryland Report Card website. He then published the embargoed data and has been using it to run with a misleading and inaccurate narrative that MSDE is hiding information from the public.

MSDE was alerted to the reporting of the embargoed MCAP data when an LEA informed MSDE that Fox 45 had published the embargoed data that was incorrectly moved to production. The data download file was subsequently removed.

Enhanced Data Disclosure Avoidance

Because this was the first reporting of MCAP data after the COVID-19 school disruptions, MSDE staff as part of the review process identified the need to enhance the disclosure avoidance methods for reporting student data to ensure a “reasonable person in the school community” could not identify individual students.[1] MSDE added two additional suppressions that were put in place as part of the release of the 2022 MCAP data and when the percentage of students proficient was ≤ 5% of students.

·         All performance level data was suppressed. The tested count and the percent proficient reporting of ≤ 5% of students continued to be reported.

·         The N-size (tested count) was increased from 10 to 30. When fewer than 30 students were tested, the tested count and the reporting of the percent proficient was suppressed in addition to the performance level data. An example demonstrating the need for this additional suppression is a school having 20 students; 5% proficient would be one student and therefore there is a risk for reidentification of that student.

MSDE is currently retroactively updating data going back five years to be consistent with these enhancements. The 2022 MCAP data are now published as both data downloads and as dynamic pages of the Report Card with these federally required enhancements to disclosure avoidance. All data suppressed due to the risk of individual student identification is noted with an asterisk. Throughout the Maryland Report Card website, the following footnote is provided:

'*' indicates no students or fewer than 10 students in category, or '*' indicates the percentage for the category is either ≤5 or ≥95 and the corresponding counts have been suppressed.

Summary of Correspondence with Fox 45

On April 10, 2023, Mr. Papst, on behalf of Fox 45, contacted MSDE with questions about the 2022 MCAP data reported on the MSDE website. He specifically referred to the differences in data reported in January 2023 compared the data reported in March 2023 and included data spreadsheets posted on those respective dates. MSDE promptly responded to the inquiry that same day explaining why there were differences in the reported data. The response explained that the data released in January 2023 was embargoed and prematurely posted to the website by MSDE’s web vendor prior to the data going through the federally required data disclosure avoidance methods. MSDE removed the spreadsheet with embargoed data from the website and, in March, posted a spreadsheet with the same set of data, but with the required disclosure avoidance methods applied. The response to Mr. Papst’s inquiry also included a detailed explanation of what disclosure avoidance methods were applied to the data and why, as well as a link to a document explaining the U.S. Department of Education’s federally required reporting methods.

On April 12, 2023, Mr. Papst contacted MSDE again with follow up questions to his original inquiry. He specifically asked for MSDE to further explain the disclosure avoidance methods applied to the data. MSDE responded to the follow up questions on April 14, 2023. The response reiterated the federally required disclosure avoidance methods applied to the data and provided additional information about why data suppression is a federally mandated step when reporting student performance data to protect the privacy of individual student records under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99). The response also explained that MSDE needed to apply enhancements to the disclosure avoidance methods post-pandemic to further protect the personal information and identification of individual students.

On April 17, 2023, at 4:50 p.m., Mr. Papst reached out to MSDE again with more follow up questions asking about several topics including who is MSDE’s web vendor and why disclosure avoidance methods used for 2022 data was retroactively applied to data from previous years. Before MSDE could provide Mr. Papst with an answer to his follow up questions, Fox 45 aired a news piece in the 10:00 p.m. newscast on April 17, 2023. The news piece omitted key information provided to Mr. Papst making the piece inaccurate and mischaracterizing.

Next Steps for MSDE’s Data Reporting

As a direct result of the mistakes made by the vendor and project management oversight, MSDE is implementing the following corrective actions:

·         MSDE will require additional layers of sign-off including directly from the Division of Assessment, Accountability and Performance Reporting Assistant State Superintendent. This level of sign-off was previously not required and will be required going forward.

·         MSDE will put in place additional checks of the vendor deliverables and website by agency staff during web testing and prior to publication of data on MDreportcard.org.

·         MSDE will publish a fact sheet on the Maryland Report Card website highlighting the disclosure avoidance methods, including data suppression methodologies, that are currently in place. This fact sheet will be updated as future enhancements and improvements are implemented.

In conclusion, MSDE values the press and transparency, as well as facts and accuracy. Therefore, MSDE must do its due diligence to ensure the false information is corrected and that the public has all the facts. Data released in the 2022 Maryland Report Card covers many facets of student and school performance and with that comes a nuanced approach to reporting that data to protect the privacy of our students and remain compliant with federal law. Context is a critical component to telling this story for the sake of accuracy and ethical journalism. MSDE will continue to be responsive and transparent on important questions and issues as the agency sincerely values trust and understanding from the public. MSDE maintains its stance on ensuring the public has all the facts and context on the stories about our students and educators.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Did you know that every year in the U.S., nearly 7 million animals go into animal shelters? National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day is celebrated annually on April 30^th to raise awareness of these pets in need of adoption.

The St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resources Center encourages community members to celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day! Suggested ways to celebrate include:

• Watch this video on adopting from the Animal Adoption & Resources Center.
  • Share the video on social media using #AdoptAShelterPetDay
• Visit an animal shelter, learn about the needs of adopted pets, and consider adopting.
• Spay and neuter your pets to help reduce the number of unwanted pets in the population.
• Share pictures of your adopted pet on social media using #AdoptAShelterPetDay
  • If you adopted from the St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resources Center, we would love for you to tag us in your post!
• Check out the shelter’s donation needs list and donate if you can.
• Volunteer your time at a local shelter or animal welfare organization.

The shelter is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from noon – 6 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon – 4 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, no appointment necessary. The Animal Adoption & Resource Center takes in and oversees adoptions for a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, reptiles, small mammals, birds, and more.

Residents can learn more about the Center, view animals available for adoption, and watch the live kitty cam online at: stmaryscountymd.gov/animalshelter; or follow the Center on Facebook at: facebook.com/smcanimalservices. For additional information, call the St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resources Center at (301) 475-8018.

Rear Adm. Yvette Davids was nominated for appointment to the rank of vice admiral and assignment as the next superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland.

Davids, a 1989 graduate of the Naval Academy, was nominated by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael M. Gilday.

She is a career surface warfare officer and is currently serving as Director, of the Learning to Action Drive Team. Davids has an extensive operational background including commanding USS Curts (FFG 38), USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), and Carrier Strike Group 11.

Her assignment to Curts made her the first Hispanic American woman to command a Navy warship. For this milestone, Davids was a 2008 recipient of the Mexican American Women’s National Association’s Las Primeras Award for Latinas who demonstrate important ‘firsts’ in their fields with a national impact.

Pending confirmation by the U.S. Senate, her change of command in summer 2023 at the U.S. Naval Academy would mark the first time a woman has assumed the role of USNA Superintendent.

Governor Wes Moore joins Ørsted on Friday to make a major offshore wind announcement at Tradepoint Atlantic.

Ørsted is developer of the 966-megawatt Skipjack Wind project off the Maryland coast.

Skipjack Wind will create thousands of jobs in Maryland, power nearly 300,000 homes with renewable energy, and help the state achieve its goals of 8.5-gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2031 and 100% clean energy by 2040, officials said in a release.

Moore will highlight construction progress at Tradepoint Atlantic with Ørsted and conduct a bill signing ceremony.

The Bills to be signed include SB 781 POWER ACT, SB 224 Clean Trucks Act of 2023, HB 230 Clean Trucks Act of 2023, and the HB 550 Clean Transportation and Energy Act. 

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) congratulates the Maryland 2023 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) announced on April 20, 2023. This week, the U.S. Department of Education announced the 2023 ED-GRS Awardees, District Sustainability Awardees, and Postsecondary Sustainability Awardees, and one school and one district from Maryland are among the 2023 ED-GRS. The two Maryland honorees are Watershed Public Charter School (WPCS) in Baltimore County and Queen Anne’s County Public Schools (QACPS). “The Maryland State Board of Education takes great pride in the ED-GRS recognition of WPCS and QACPS. Not only do these schools emphasize environmental literacy, sustainability, and conservation, they all establish healthy physical environments where our children learn, grow, and thrive,” said State Board of Education President Clarence C. Crawford. "Congratulations to WPCS and QACPS for setting a standard of excellence in environmental sustainability emphasizing student and community health, environmental stewardship, and resource conservation,” said State Superintendent of Schools Mohammed Choudhury. “WPCS and QACPS feature resources including outdoor classrooms and school gardens that encourage students to become active leaders who monitor and conserve energy and minimize waste. While all schools throughout Maryland demonstrate a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, the MSDE will continue to expand and scale best practices that emulate the work of WPCS and QACPS. Together, we will continue to deepen the teaching and 200 WEST BALTIMORE STREET | BALTIMORE, MD 21201 410-767-0100 Deaf and hard of hearing use Relay MarylandPublicSchools.org learning of Maryland’s robust and multi-disciplinary Environmental Literacy Program grounded in Next Generation Science Standards that combine learning with practice." The MSDE nominated WPCS and QACPS for their outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability. WPCS prioritizes environmental stewardship and holds it at the center of its mission. Students at WPCS lead many environmental sustainability efforts including a completely waste free lunch in December 2022. The WPCS staff, students, and community regularly collaborate in tree plantings and other campus enhancements to reduce environmental impact. “Being an ED-GRS school aligns with the Watershed mission and vision of outdoor, hands-on learning,” said WPCS Principal Lori Widney. “Our campus and environmental curriculum provide students with the tools to show their progress, use social emotional regulation, and problem solve through challenges. I’m proud of our students and staff who worked to create a more sustainable school building and campus, which lessened our carbon footprint on the immediate environment.” QACPS demonstrate a deep commitment to sustainable practices in each of its schools including careful monitoring of energy use, concerted efforts to reduce waste, and exclusive application of environmentally friendly custodial practices. Students in QACPS benefit from thoughtful integration of environmental programming throughout the curriculum that emphasizes the value of outdoor time for learning. “I commend our school district under the leadership of Mr. Michael Page, Supervisor of Instruction,” said QACPS Superintendent, Dr. Patricia Saelens. “This is an honor of distinction that is only earned through hard work and dedication to Green Schools efforts.” Across the country, 26 schools, 11 districts, and four postsecondary institutions are being honored as Green Ribbon Schools for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education. The honorees were named from a pool of candidates nominated by 18 states. The list of all selected schools, districts, colleges, and universities, as well as their nomination packages, can be found here. A report with highlights on the 41 honorees can be found here, and more information on the federal recognition award can be found here. In addition, resources for all schools to move toward the three Pillars can be found here.  

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court’s decision to stay the 5th Circuit Court’s restrictions on access to mifepristone:

“Mifepristone has been proven safe and effective and has been used by Americans for years. This decision – while temporary – will maintain critical access to reproductive health care. We must continue fighting against these restrictions and those targeting reproductive rights everywhere.”

Officers Recover Car Stolen from Gas Station / Suspect Arrested: On April 10 at 2 p.m., a patrol officer was entering a gas station on Smallwood Drive in Waldorf when he noticed a man running after a vehicle leaving the parking lot, yelling that his car had just been stolen. The officer observed the vehicle enter a nearby neighborhood. The officer, with the assistance of two other officers who were in the area, attempted to stop the stolen car, but the driver fled several miles before finally stopping in the roadway. The driver, Daniel Michael Harris, 42, of Waldorf, was arrested without further incident and was charged with theft, unauthorized use of a vehicle and other related charges. Investigation revealed the vehicle had been left running with the doors unlocked. On April 11, a judge ordered Harris to be held at the Charles County Detention Center without bond.

Car thefts are often crimes of opportunity; unfortunately, car thieves are learning how to defeat newer keyless systems as well. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is reminding drivers to lock their cars at all times and do not leave them running. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, additional safety measures include:

·       Do not leave keys, key fobs, or valet keys in your vehicle.

·       Ensure that your vehicle is turned off when leaving it unattended.

·       Be sure to read your owner's manual carefully and familiarize yourself with how to operate your vehicle's keyless ignition system properly.

·       Keep information, such as the make, model, model year, license plate and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) easily accessible in the event your vehicle is stolen.

For more information relating to auto-theft prevention and safety, you may also visit the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council or their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/MVTPC/ Officer Thompson is investigating.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today an investment of more than $46 million in the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, which has funded farmer-driven grants and grassroots education programs resulting in climate-smart solutions for farms and ranches in every state and island protectorate since 1988.

“This investment in sustainable agriculture underscores USDA’s ongoing commitment to transforming our food and agricultural systems,” said Chavonda Jacobs-Young, USDA Chief Scientist and Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics (REE). “Through this investment, SARE will continue to provide competitive grants and education programs that foster farmer-driven innovation to promote climate-smart practices, make sustainable producers more profitable, and improve local economies and the quality of life in rural communities.”

These 10-year awards are being made by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) in four regional SARE host institutions and the National Reporting, Coordinating, and Communications Office (NRCCO). Grant recipients are the University of Minnesota (North Central SARE Regional Host Institution); University of Vermont (Northeast SARE Regional Host Institution); University of Georgia (Southern SARE Regional Host Institution); Montana State University (Western SARE Regional Host Institution); and University of Maryland (NRCCO).

Since its authorization in the 1990 Farm Bill, SARE has supported farmers in four regions (North Central, Northeast, South, and West), with each regional program hosted by a Land-grant Institution and guided by volunteer Administrative Councils that make grants and set regional priorities. These councils include farmers and ranchers along with representatives from universities, government, agribusiness and nonprofit organizations. Technical reviewers, also volunteers, lend professional and practical experience to help councils evaluate project proposals.

“Sustainable agriculture is a high priority for NIFA across many of our programs as we seek to provide more profitable farm income, promote environmental stewardship and enhance quality of life for farm families and communities,” said Dionne Toombs, acting director of USDA NIFA. “In the last 35 years, with funding from NIFA, SARE has provided $380 million in grant funding for nearly 8,400 projects serving farmers, growers and rural communities.”

These projects cover a wide range of topics, including supporting producers with on-farm renewable energy, pest and weed management, cover crops, high tunnel and session extension, crop rotations, marketing, pollinator health and local and regional food system development.

REE advances agricultural research, education and Extension across the nation to make transformative discoveries that solve societal challenges. NIFA invests in initiatives that ensure the long-term viability of agriculture and applies an integrated approach to ensure that groundbreaking discoveries in agriculture-related sciences and technologies reach the people who can put them into practice. In FY2022, NIFA’s total investment was $2.2 billion. For more information, visit NIFA’s website: www.nifa.usda.gov.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) and the Board of Education of Charles County would like input on the 2024-2025 school calendar. The Board of Education approves the school calendar one to two years in advance.  

At the April 11 Board meeting, staff presented three draft calendar options for the Board’s consideration. The options are posted on the CCPS website at https://www.ccboe.com/parents/2024-2025-school-calendar-survey. The website also includes a link to a calendar survey. CCPS encourages parents, staff, students and community members to provide feedback through the survey on the proposed calendar options.  

The Board will review survey feedback at its May 9 meeting and is expected to take action on the 2024-2025 calendar proposals at its meeting in June.  

The options include an August start date for students, winter and spring break days, and early dismissal dates for students. Early dismissal dates in both options are scheduled for contracted teaching planning, interim and report card preparation time. None of the options include the addition of inclement weather dates. A question on the survey features preferences on inclement weather dates.  

The calendar proposals also include 180 student attendance days and 190 contracted teacher workdays. Click here to review the calendar options and take the survey. The calendar drafts, as well as the survey, are available in both English and Spanish. Deadline to complete the survey is 11:59 p.m., Monday, May 1.    

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – April 20, 2023 – The Calvert County Department of Economic Development is pleased to announce it has awarded nearly $1.2 million in grant funding to 39 local small businesses through the Calvert County Small Business Assistance Grant Fund. The grant fund was established to provide financial assistance that will help local small business owners grow and strengthen their existing businesses.

Businesses selected reach across various industries, including retail, restaurant, building, mechanical and industrial trades, childcare, healthcare, water transportation, legal, beauty and barbering services, landscaping, financial services and education. Awards total $1,160,250 in funding.

“Grants are an important tool for supporting small businesses and can be a game-changer for business owners looking to expand and grow,” said Economic Development Director Julie Oberg. “Small businesses are the backbone of a thriving and dynamic economy. It’s always exciting to see the creativity, innovation and hard work of local entrepreneurs and business owners. These grants are a recognition of that hard work, and we are proud to support these businesses as they continue to contribute to our community.”

The Calvert County Small Business Assistance Grant Fund was made possible through federal American Rescue Plan Act funding. Eligible businesses must have been in operation for at least two years and have two to 100 employees.

The Calvert County Department of Economic Development monitors economic trends and works to execute business programs that complement Calvert County. The department’s goal is to attract and retain strong, healthy and dynamic companies of all sizes and industries. For more information, visit www.ChooseCalvert.com.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

St. Mary’s County ranks in the top quartile of Maryland jurisdictions as the sixth healthiest county in Maryland, according to the annual County Health Rankings, released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. This ranking reflects improvement from 2021 and 2022. Rates of adult smoking, obesity, alcohol-impaired driving deaths, and low access to primary care indicated some areas of ongoing challenge for St. Mary’s County when compared to the other 23 Maryland jurisdictions.
 
The County Health Rankings is an annual report that ranks the overall health of nearly every local jurisdiction in the United States. The Rankings provides a snapshot of a community’s health, and helps to identify issues and possible solutions to create healthier places to live, learn, work and play. For more than a decade, the Rankings’ data, guidance and stories have broadened the nation’s understanding about the many factors that shape health.
 
The Rankings allow for relative comparisons between counties within a state on overall health and well-being. These comparisons are based on an assessment of four areas that influence health: health behaviors, clinical care, social and economic factors, and the physical environment. These factors are rated using local-level data from measures that include smoking, education, physical inactivity, preventable hospitalizations, and the availability of primary care physicians.
 
The 2023 Rankings focus on the connection between civic health and thriving communities. Civic health reflects the opportunities people have to participate in their communities, starting in local communities and representing promise, opportunity, belonging and shared responsibility.  
 
“In St. Mary’s County, we have an incredibly engaged community of organizational partners and residents working together to advance health,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “This diverse, multi-sector partnership helps us to achieve better health outcomes for our community and support quality of life for those who live here.” 
 
The Rankings are available online at www.countyhealthrankings.org. In addition to the county-level data, the Rankings also features What Works for Health, a database of more than 400 evidence-informed strategies to support communities as they implement local action around public health. If interested in supporting health in St. Mary’s County, consider visiting healthystmarys.com and joining the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership.

During the week of April 10 – April 16, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,861 calls for service throughout the community.

Damaged Property: 23-26668

On April 16, 2023, DFC Savick responded to the 4100 block of Mears Ave. (Rod N Reel Parking Garage) in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of damaged property. Investigation revealed the victim’s vehicle had been damaged as a result of a chemical matter from a fire extinguisher. A fire extinguisher was observed laying on the ground 10 feet from the victim’s vehicle. The vehicle sustained approximately $750.00 in damage to the front end as a result of the fire extinguishers ammonium phosphate (a chemical that ruins paint on vehicles).

Theft: 23-24966

On April 10, 2023, DFC Wilder responded to a lot used as a dry dock/marina in the 13800 block of Solomons Island Road in Solomons, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect (s) entered the victim’s 36 ft. trawler style vessel and syphoned 200 gallons of fuel, stole a Garmin GPS/chart plotter, and a power inverter. The estimated value of stolen property is $2,200.00.

Theft: 23-25279

On April 11, 2023, Deputy Huy responded to the 9600 block of Sam Owings Drive in Chesapeake Beach, for a report of a theft. The complainant advised his wallet and its contents ($700 in cash, two credit cards, a MD Driver’s License and a few other items) were stolen from his bedroom closet. The estimated value of stolen property is $760.00.

ARRESTS

On April 16, 2023, Deputy Sylver responded to the Walmart located at 150 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival, deputies made contact with Stephen Michael Kinnison, 48 of Lusby, who was attempting to return merchandise he did not originally pay for. Kinnison became very loud and aggressive drawing attention to his self from other customers walking into the Walmart. Kinnison was asked several times to calm down and lower his voice. Store surveillance provided Kinnison did not pay for the stolen merchandise and walked out of the store. Kinnison was arrested and charged with Theft: Less than $100 and Disorderly Conduct.

On April 13, 2023, Deputy Claggett was conducting a patrol check Abners Crab House located at 3748 Harbor Road in Chesapeake Beach, when he was approached by an intoxicated male identified as Elmer Aristides Reyes, 34 of Gaithersburg.  Reyes began yelling profanities at the deputies drawing the attention of the patrons inside. Reyes was escorted out of the establishment where he used a closed fist and struck the hood of a vehicle in the parking lot causing a dent in the hood. Reyes was advised he was being placed under arrest and began to resist. Reyes was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Malicious Destruction of Property Less Than $1,000 and Disorderly Conduct.
 

Student Falls Ill after Ingesting Oil-Like Substance from a Vape Cartridge: On April 19 at 1:45 p.m., a student at St. Charles High School ingested an oil-like substance from a vape cartridge and became lethargic. FIRE/EMS responded to the school, and the student was transported to a hospital where they are being treated. A school resource officer has initiated an investigation. Parents are asked to talk with their children about the dangers of ingesting foods or liquids that contain dangerous substances, as there is a risk the substance could contain life-threatening poisons such as fentanyl or other toxic materials. Anyone with additional details is asked to call Cpl. Thompson at 301-609-3282 ext. 0434. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app.

The Office of the State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County teamed with partner agencies to spotlight National Child Abuse Prevention Awareness during the month of April.

The State’s Attorney’s Office and other St Mary’s County Child Advocacy Center Multi-Disciplinary Team members organized several special events, beginning with “Pinwheels for Prevention.” In early April, whimsical displays of pinwheels were placed in prominent locations such as Circuit Court and District Court to remind the community about the significance of fostering safe childhoods for our children. Pinwheels were designated in 2008 as the national symbol of child abuse prevention.

On Tuesday, April 18, 2023, Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Sarah Proctor and Ashley Sowls joined community partners to accept a Proclamation from the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County that read, in part, “…effective child abuse prevention succeeds because of the partnerships created between child welfare professionals, education, health, community, and faith-based organizations, law enforcement agencies, our State’s Attorney’s Office, and families.”

As the capstone of the monthlong campaign, community members are invited to attend a short awareness ceremony and kickball game at Chancellor’s Run Regional Park at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 23, 2023. The ceremony will feature remarks from State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling, highlighting the work being done in the county to end the scourge of child abuse in our community. The game will feature players from the Office of the State’s Attorney, the Department of Social Services, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the Maryland State Police, MedStar St. Mary’s, and Serenity Place, LLC. This good-natured competition is a fun and interactive way for the participating agencies to connect with the community and engage in meaningful conversations to effect needed change for the prevention of child abuse in our community. “We hope the community will come out to cheer us on,” said State’s Attorney Sterling, “but more than that, we hope the community will join us to end child abuse forever.”

Stun Gun Recovered from Student at Matthew Henson Middle School: On April 18 at 12:08 p.m., two students at Mathew Henson Middle School were involved in a scuffle at which time one of the students involved activated a stun gun in the school hallway. School staff separated the students and recovered the stun gun. No injuries were reported. The school resource officer was notified and initiated an investigation. In accordance with Maryland law, the student cannot be criminally charged, however, the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) has been made aware of the situation for possible follow-up services as needed. The student faces disciplinary action through the CCPS. Anyone with details about this case is asked to call Officer Quigley at 301-609-3282 ext. 0722.

On Tuesday, April 18, Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services staff provided an overview of the Fiscal 2024 Proposed Budget in a Work Session on the General Fund. The General Fund is comprised of property taxes, income taxes, recordation and transfer taxes, and other revenues. Outside agencies provided presentations, including Board of Education, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, Charles County Department of Health, Charles County Department of Social Services, Charles County Public Library, College of Southern Maryland, Charles County State’s Attorney Office, Circuit Court, Election Board, and Charles County Charitable Trust.

County Commissioners also held a Capital Improvement Work Session and staff provided an overview of Governmental Capital Improvement Projects. The local share of these projects is funded by the General Fund. Staff discussed the Fiscal 2024- 2028 Capital Improvement Program, which includes projects for the Board of Education, College of Southern Maryland, General Government, Parks, and Transportation projects, as well as contingency-inflation costs.

Some of the highlighted proposed items for the Board of Education include a new elementary school and middle school, renovations and maintenance at several existing schools, open space enclosure projects at three schools, a school-based health center at Indian Head Elementary School, and full day kindergarten additions at four schools. General government proposed projects include a new VanGO maintenance facility, a new La Plata library, a new Recreation Center, a new emergency services facility in Waldorf, and maintenance at various county public facilities and infrastructure. Transportation proposed projects include the annual road overlay program, county drainage system improvements, safety improvements for Billingsley Road and Turkey Hill Road, Phase III of Western Parkway, Waldorf Urban Redevelopment Corridor Stormwater Outfall project, and funding to support the next phase of the Middletown Road upgrade project.

Open Session Briefings

• Deputy County Administrator Deborah Hall and staff from the County Attorney’s Office and Department of Planning and Growth Management presented an update on the status of county-owned property at the former site of the National Guard in La Plata. In 2021, staff presented a plan to surplus this property and Commissioners approved it. Since that time, county staff have been working to vacate the property and prepare it for sale. They discussed next steps and affirmed the decision to move forward with disposition of the property.
• Commissioners received a briefing on efforts to support youth in Charles County from leaders representing Charles County Public Schools; Charles County Public Library; College of Southern Maryland; Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism; Department of Community Services; and Charles County Sheriff’s Office. Charles County Public Schools provided information on an after-school youth pilot program, supported by county agencies and local nonprofits, and the Charles County Library provided an overview of a centralized website that has information and resources for residents.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A budget amendment increase of $40,000 for a new initiative in the Department of Community Services that will pay for employees to become certified to lead an evidence-based program aimed at improving or maintaining the cognitive health of older adults. This certification program will be implemented through a memorandum of understanding between the Charles County Department of Health and the Department of Community Services.
• A budget transfer request of $17,680 to pay for a consultant to update the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program, and address the high number of citizen complaints about speeding on neighborhood streets.
• A budget amendment increase of $39,250 to pay for doubling the juror per diem rate from $15 to $30 per day.
• A letter of support for the Charles County Sheriff’s Office application to receive a Community Oriented Policing Services grant.

Actions on Boards, Commissions and Committees

• The Charter Board application deadline was extended to Tuesday, May 2

• Commissioners reappoint Claude Humbert as Chairperson and Benjamin Watkins as Vice Chairperson to the Board of Appeals
• Commissioners appoint Ruth Anderson-Cole, Donald Ely, and Robin Brown to the Library Board of Trustees
• Commissioners appoint Wayne Klinger, Sr. to the LOSAP Board
• Commissioners appoint Derek Bushrod to the Board of Electrical Examiners
• Commissioners appoint Eric Kareem to the Interfaith Commission

Recognition

Commissioners recognized Charles County students whose short film documentary, Dream Catcher, was nominated for best documentary short by the IndeXFilm Festival. You may view the photo here.

Public Comments and Public Hearing

• Commissioners held an open session to receive public comments on any issue. This agenda item was added for the Commissioners to listen to feedback only, twice each month during their regular meetings. If members of the public have specific questions, the Citizen Response Office can be contacted at any time by emailing CitizenResponse@charlescountymd.gov or calling (301) 645-0550. Commissioners also host quarterly town halls to dialogue with residents and respond to questions and concerns from the public. The next quarterly town hall is scheduled on June 28, 2023, at 6 p.m. in the Charles County Government Building, 200 Baltimore Street, La Plata.
• Commissioners held a public hearing on a zoning map amendment for Maryland Gardens and adopted Bill 2023-03 Zoning Map Amendment 22-01 Maryland Gardens.

Next Commissioners Session: April 25-26, 2023

Viewing option of meetings: Click Here

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

WASHINGTON – Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.) joined Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Wash.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and 17 of their colleagues today in introducing the bipartisan, bicameral Ending Trading and Holdings in Congressional Stocks (ETHICS) Act. The ETHICS Act is new, comprehensive legislation that would prohibit members of Congress, their spouses and dependent children from abusing their positions for personal financial gain by owning or trading securities, commodities, or futures.  

“Ethics matter. Members of Congress are public servants who should not be making a profit off of the official information we gain by doing our jobs,” said Senator Cardin. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in increasing transparency and eliminating opportunities for abuse.”

“Members of Congress have a responsibility to act in the best interest of the American people — not their personal financial portfolios. By removing any financial conflicts of interest and increasing transparency, Congress can better serve our constituents and uphold the public trust,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“Congressional stock trading is deeply corrupt. We are elected to serve the public, not our portfolios. And no member should vote on bills biased by the character of their holdings,” said Senator Merkley, the ETHICS Act lead sponsor.

“It’s simple: members of Congress are supposed to serve the American people, not their stock portfolios,” said Senator Brown. “Elected officials have access to private information that can affect individual companies and entire industries. We need more accountability and transparency to prevent members from abusing their positions for personal gain.”

The ETHICS Act is also cosponsored by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Angus King (I-Maine), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). In the House, the ETHICS Act, led by Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) and Michael Cloud (R-Texas), is cosponsored by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).

The ETHICS Act would bar members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from owning or trading individual stocks, securities, commodities, or futures. Lawmakers often have advance notice of investigations, hearings, and legislation that can impact stock prices, or can move markets by supporting or enacting policy changes that affect specific companies or industries. The legislation gives several options to members of Congress who own covered assets, including divesting, diversifying into allowable assets—such as mutual funds—or placing assets into a Qualified Blind Trust (QBT). The ETHICS Act addresses concerns about Qualified Blind Trusts not being truly blind with new, enhanced provisions requiring divestiture of assets that go into the Qualified Blind Trust. The ETHICS Act strengthens congressional ethics, bans conflicts of interest and the appearance of conflicts of interest, and increases transparency in Congress.  

The ETHICS Act includes strong penalties with enforcement by respective Congressional Ethics Offices. If Members or their covered family members continue to hold or trade in violation of the Act, the fine will be at least the value of the Members' monthly pay. The ETHICS Act also expands on disclosure requirements under 2012’s Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act.  

Full text of the legislation as introduced in the Senate is available here.

The ETHICS Act enjoys wide support from government ethics leaders and other groups across the political spectrum, including: Project on Government Oversight (POGO), Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Public Citizen, Progressive Change Campaign Committee (PCCC), MoveOn, National Taxpayers Union (NTU), Take On Wall Street, Stand Up America, Indivisible, RepresentUs, 20/20 Vision, Campaign Legal Center, Issue One, and Our Revolution. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners presented proclamations for National Child Abuse Prevention Month, National Healthcare Decisions Day, and National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. They then presented a commendation to Tammy Loewe for Excellence in Public Health.

The Commissioners then held a public hearing on the proposed amendment to the St. Mary’s County Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan. The public comment period is open until Tuesday, April 25, 2023 and may be sent via email to csmc@stmaryscountymd.gov or mail to PO Box 653, Leonardtown, MD 20650.

During County Administrator time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Heard a brief from United Bridge Partners.
• Approved the Department of Economic Development’s acceptance of the Facade and Streetscape Improvements grant in the amount of $50,000 and $34,500 in-kind.
• Approved the Department of Finance’s request for a budget amendment to increase interest income revenue and CSMC reserve to provide funding for the COLA approved during the 1/10/23 budget work session.
• Postponed the decision on the Department of Human Resources request to reclassify a vacant grade 7 Office Manager position as a grade 9 Paralegal.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC will host their next regular business meeting on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings can be viewed live Tuesday mornings on SMCG Channel 95 or as a replay Friday at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are also available for on-demand viewing on the St. Mary's County Government YouTube Channel.

Patrol Officers Apprehend Man Armed with Machete who Threatened Parishioners at Church and Used Racial Epithets: On April 16 at 9:13 a.m., officers responded to a church in the 5100 block of Leonardtown Road in Waldorf for the report of a man armed with a machete threatening parishioners and using racial epithets as parishioners were setting up for a service. The victims, who were familiar with the man, were able to convince him to leave the church and go outside. One of the parishioners called 9-1-1 and as officers arrived on the scene, one of the victims pointed toward a wooded area where officers observed the suspect. Upon seeing the officers, the suspect fled into the woods. Sgt. J. Morales, Officer B. Aber, and Officer B. Weinmann, immediately pursued the suspect on foot, giving commands for the suspect to stop. The suspect complied and was taken into custody without further incident. The suspect was armed with an 18 inch machete which was strapped across his chest. The suspect, Kyle Michael Krawczyk, 25, of no fixed address, was charged with first-degree assault, racial – religious crimes against a group, reckless endangerment, and other related charges. Krawcyzk has been detained since being taken into custody. He went before a district court commissioner on April 17 and was held without bond. Officer Karopchinsky is continuing to investigate.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – The Maryland State Police, in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), are asking residents to dispose of unneeded prescription medications during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 22, 2023 at Maryland State Police barracks statewide.

According to Maryland Department of Health statistics, from January 2022 to January 2023, there were 2,154 opioid-related fatal overdoses recorded in the state and of those, 320 were prescription opioid-related fatalities. According to the DEA, the majority of teenagers abusing prescription medications are finding an unlimited supply in their family’s medicine cabinet.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing prescription medications, while also educating the general public about the potential for misuse of medications.

Each Maryland State Police barrack will act as a collection station, giving residents an opportunity to dispose of all unneeded prescription medications.

At the last Prescription Drug Take Back event in October 2022, the Maryland State Police collected more than 570 pounds of unneeded prescription medications. This included more than 80 pounds from the Frederick barrack, 73 pounds form the College Park barrack, 49 pounds from the Rockville barrack, and 44 pounds from the Golden Ring barrack. Since 2014, the Maryland State Police have successfully removed more than 26,000 pounds of unneeded prescription medications in an effort to prevent medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting.

As part of Maryland’s combined and continued effort to reduce opioid misuse, Maryland State Police barracks, across the state, have become around-the-clock drop-off locations for unneeded prescription medications. All 23 Maryland State Police barracks are now equipped with secure drug collection boxes and are available around-the-clock for unneeded prescription medication drop-off. The drop-off boxes remain confidential. No questions will be asked when deposits are made.

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Residents can locate the closest Maryland State Police barrack by visiting: https://bit.ly/3L27LDj.

The Maryland State Police is a partner in the Opioid Operational Command Center, which facilitates collaboration between state and local public health, human services, education, and public safety entities to combat the Heroin and Opioid Crisis and its’ deadly impact on Maryland communities. Before It’s Too Late is the state’s effort to bring awareness to this epidemic and to mobilize resources for effect prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Do your part to ensure your prescription medications don’t get into the wrong hands. Keep them safe. Clean them out. Take them back.  

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – April 18, 2023 – The Calvert County Department of Public Safety advises citizens that the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Calvert County, in effect from noon through 8 p.m. today, Tuesday, April 18, 2023, due to the current weather conditions.

The combination of low humidity and gusty winds has created ideal conditions for the rapid spread of fires. All residents and visitors to the area are urged to exercise extreme caution to prevent the ignition of fires. All outdoor burning is discouraged, as fires could rapidly spread and become uncontrollable. In addition, citizens should properly dispose of smoking materials, and use caution with power tools and equipment that can produce sparks.

Public Safety will continue to monitor weather conditions closely and provide updates as needed.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The community is invited to join the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, the Department of Aging & Human Services, and the Triad/SALT Council to celebrate this year's Law Enforcement Officers of the Year and to remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to their community.

Law Enforcement Appreciation Day will be held on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. at The White Rose, located at 21030 Point Lookout Road in Callaway, MD. This event is free and open to the public.

The Officer of the Year from each agency will receive recognitions from the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, Governor Wes Moore, the Maryland Senate, the Maryland House of Delegates, the Triad/SALT Council, and more.

The community is invited to stay for lunch, free of charge, following the ceremony. Advance registration is appreciated, but not required to attend.

For more information or to register, please contact Sarah Miller with the Department of Aging & Human Services at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1073 or at sarah.miller@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Missing Child from Turner Road Positively Identified as Maddelynn Taylor Wallace: On April 15 at 6 p.m., officers responded to the 3900 block of Turner Road in Brandywine, MD for the report of a missing 10-year-old girl who had autism and was nonverbal. Patrol officers, additional CCSO staff, Search and Rescue, law enforcement partners from across the region, Charles County Fire / EMS and numerous volunteers from K-9 organizations responded and established a strategic search. The search led to an area about a mile away from where Maddelynn was last seen, which was heavily wooded with numerous quarries. Evidence was observed that Maddelynn had been in that area and the search focused on a 25-foot deep, water-filled quarry. Members of Charles County Dive Rescue responded and located Maddelynn deceased in the quarry. She was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore where she was positively identified this morning. The cause of death was ruled a drowning. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office Victim/Witness Services Coordinator responded to the scene and is working with Maddelynn’s family to provide resources. Det. Worley is investigating.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce that Governor Wes Moore is awarding $2,960,126 to expand high-speed internet access to an estimated 427 households and businesses across Charles County through Connect Maryland.

Connect Maryland is an initiative to close the digital divide through the Office of Statewide Broadband. The Connect Maryland Network Infrastructure Grant Program made 35 awards to Internet Service Providers and local jurisdictions to construct new broadband networks to service unserved households. To view the Governor’s release, click here.

“We are pleased that we have received additional funding that will allow us to continue to strive for all Charles County residents to have access to Broadband services,” said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. “I also would like to thank the Broadband Task Force for continuing to help Charles County move forward."

Access to broadband in rural areas is an issue nationwide, and Charles County is no exception. Although the more populated areas of our county have access to high-speed internet, there are remaining homes and businesses in the less-populated regions that still need it. For this reason, the Board of Commissioners included Infrastructure/Services, which included broadband access, in their Goals and Objectives.

“We are proud to deepen our partnership with Charles County to bring next-generation broadband to more homes and businesses throughout the county,” said Michael Parker, Senior Vice President of Comcast’s Beltway Region. “Technology is a powerful driver of innovation and economic growth, and we are excited to further invest in Charles County to ensure residents and businesses can fully participate in today’s digital economy.”

The Broadband Task Force, composed of representatives from multiple County departments, Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative, Charles County Public Schools, and community stakeholders, have worked over to develop an action plan for bringing broadband access to rural areas of the county. Under the leadership of Deborah Hall, Deputy County Administrator, and Evelyn Jacobson, Chief of IT, they successfully mapped areas where access was needed, presented recommendations for expanded access, and sought grant opportunities to pay for it. The complete member list of the Rural Broadband Taskforce is located at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/our-county/rural-broadband-in-charles-county.

"Verizon is excited to participate in Maryland's "FY23 Network Infrastructure Grant Program," said Tony Lewis, Verizon vice-president, state government policy.  "This grant will assist Verizon in the deployment of its all-fiber network and Fios Home Internet service to addresses in Charles County, and thousands of additional homes and business in other parts of the State."

For more information about the Office of Statewide Broadband, visit https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Broadband/Pages/default.aspx.

Sheriff Troy Berry and the men and women of the Charles County Sheriff's Office are heartbroken to share the update that a body was recovered from a deep, water-filled quarry a short time ago in the area that Maddelynn went missing. The Medical Examiners Office will confirm the identity and we will provide an update once available.

Officers and detectives are continuing to investigate, although no foul play is suspected. 

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development's Office of Statewide Broadband invites you to attend one of its upcoming regional conferences to discuss broadband funding and accessibility in Maryland, as the state creates a plan for broadband infrastructure deployment and a plan to increase access to digital technology and education. 

Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the federal programs Digital Equity and Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) were introduced to ensure that all communities can access and use affordable, reliable high-speed internet to meet their needs and improve their lives, as well as to get all Americans online by funding partnerships between states, communities and stakeholders to build infrastructure where we need it to and increase adoption of high-speed internet. The first step in utilizing this funding is for Maryland to create a broadband and a digital equity plan. These conferences are to present topics and gather input from stakeholders that will be used during the planning process.

Additionally, the Office of Statewide Broadband will be participating in a broadband public forum with Baltimore City to discuss Digital Equity efforts in the state. The date and time will be announced at a later date.

We look forward to your participation!

Charles County, MD…Charles County Sheriff Troy D. Berry announced that Charles County Sheriff’s detectives assigned to the Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Enforcement Section / United States Postal Inspection Task Force, along with members from the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Washington, D.C. Division, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Washington Division, and the United States Marshals Office (USMS), have charged two suspects in connection with coordinating the shipment of 5,000 fentanyl pills from the State of California to Maryland. The pills, which were stamped to resemble OxyContin pills, were going to be illegally sold and distributed.   

During the investigation, which began in November 2022, detectives intercepted a parcel at a private shipping company that was delivered from the State of California and contained 5,000 fentanyl pills. The pills were set to be delivered to a single family house in Waldorf. Through further investigation, detectives identified two suspects involved in the shipping and receiving of the pills. The suspects, Quecealla Turner, 22, of Waldorf and Marvin Anthony Bussie, 20, of Oxon Hill, were recently indicted by a Charles County Grand Jury with conspiracy to import a controlled dangerous substance, conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, and other related charges.

Turner was served her indictment and Bussie was located and arrested by the U.S. Marshals Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force on April 4 in Largo. Further, Bussie had an open warrant through the DEA for attempting to transport 12,000 fentanyl pills out of an airport in Los Angeles, California last year. On April 5, a judge ordered Bussie to be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. 

 “Fentanyl is extremely dangerous in the hands of dealers who often disguise what it is. We are committed to dismantling the networks that traffic dangerous narcotics,” said Sheriff Berry. “We especially want to recognize the partnerships between the assisting law enforcement agencies who helped in the recovery of these dangerous pills,” Sheriff Berry said. “These arrests reflect successful teamwork among local, state and federal agencies.”

“Whenever someone uses the U.S. Mail to send anything illegal or potentially dangerous, Postal Inspectors will find them and bring them to justice,” said Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge, Washington Division. “Fentanyl is killing many of our young people. Unfortunately, those taking these pills do not realize the consequences. This case demonstrates the commitment and strength of multiple law enforcement agencies working together to arrest those responsible for these crimes,” stated Johnny L. Hughes, United States Marshal for the District of Maryland.

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is committed to identifying and charging persons involved in the illegal distribution of narcotics. “We must remain vigilant in order to protect our children and loved ones from such dangerous substances,” said Sheriff Berry. Anyone with information about illegal drug distribution may contact Charles County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.

Death of Woman on Woodberry Drive Ruled Homicide / Suspect Arrested: On April 12 at 6:40 a.m., officers responded to the 2300 block of Woodberry Drive in Bryans Road, MD, for the report of a woman lying on the ground near the front of a house. When officers arrived, the woman was pronounced deceased. The woman, who was later identified as Jasmine Lakesha Hicks, 29, of La Plata, was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore where an autopsy was conducted. The manner of death was ruled a homicide. Investigators pursued leads and identified the suspect as Deanthony Lamon Warrick, 34, of Bryans Road, MD.  Detectives obtained an arrest warrant and Warrick was located and arrested on April 13 in Prince George’s County. A preliminary investigation showed the victim and suspect were known to each other and this was a domestic-related murder. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Johnson at 301-609-6453. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. Warrick is currently be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing.

Death of Woman on Woodberry Drive Ruled Homicide / Suspect Arrested: On April 12 at 6:40 a.m., officers responded to the 2300 block of Woodberry Drive in Bryans Road, MD, for the report of a woman lying on the ground near the front of a house. When officers arrived, the woman was pronounced deceased. The woman, who was later identified as Jasmine Lakesha Hicks, 29, of La Plata, was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore where an autopsy was conducted. The manner of death was ruled a homicide. Investigators pursued leads and identified the suspect as Deanthony Lamont Warrick, 34, of Bryans Road, MD.  Detectives obtained an arrest warrant and Warrick was located and arrested on April 13 in Prince George’s County. A preliminary investigation showed the victim and suspect were known to each other and this was a domestic-related murder. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Johnson at 301-609-6453. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. Warrick is currently be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing.

Suspect Arrested after Violating Protective Order, Assaulting Police Officers, and Destruction of Property: On April 7 at 8:02 a.m., officers responded to the 2500 block of Charter Oak Drive in Waldorf for the report of a man at the address who was violating a final protective order. When officers arrived, the suspect, Bryant Michael Thompson, 42, of Waldorf, was on the scene. As officers attempted to place Thompson under arrest, he resisted and spat on officers and bit one officer. Thompson was taken into custody. While being transported to the detention center, Thompson attempted to break out a window of the patrol car. Thompson was charged with violating a final protective order, resisting arrest, assault, and destruction of property. On April 10, a judge ordered Thompson could be released from the Charles County Detention Center if he is able to meet the conditions required for electronic monitoring and stays away from the victim’s residence. Officer VanAuken investigated.

The Maryland Coastal Bays will receive $1.8 million in restoration funds as part of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding to estuaries of national significance, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today.

“This funding is a valuable investment in equity, clean water and resilience for Maryland’s sensitive coastal shoreline,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “Thanks to the support of the President’s BIL, we can accelerate efforts to preserve and improve the health of the Maryland Coastal Bays.”

The Maryland Coastal Bays is one of 28 estuaries under the National Estuaries Program (NEP) receiving this funding. The funding supports projects that address climate resilience, prioritize equity, and manage other key water quality and habitat challenges.

Among other things, this funding will support a project that will restore about 1,800 feet of shoreline and shoreline buffer. It will be used to provide a nature-based and enhanced shoreline buffer habitat that will help protect infrastructure of Assateague Island National Seashore (AINS) and University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), including the AINS Visitors Center and the UMES Paul Sarbanes Coastal Ecology Center.

An estuary is a partially enclosed coastal water body where freshwater from rivers and streams mixes with salt water from the ocean. Estuaries, and their surrounding lands, are places of transition from land to sea. Estuaries are an irreplaceable natural resource that must be managed carefully for the mutual benefit of all who enjoy and depend on them.

Along with being home to thousands of species of birds, mammals, fish and other wildlife, estuaries have important commercial value, and their resources provide economic benefits for tourism, fisheries and recreational activities.

EPA’s website has more information about the National Estuary Program and the

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

School Resource Officer Investigating Threat to Commit Violence: On April 12 at 3:20 p.m., school administrators at Piccowaxen Middle School began investigating a potential threat after they were notified by several students of another student who made threats to commit a violent act at the school. The school resource officer initiated an investigation and conducted a home visit with the student’s parents and relatives. In accordance with Maryland law, the student will not face criminal charges due to their age; however, the school resource officer did notify the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services to provide services as needed. The student faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Cpl. Caballero at 301-609-3282 ext. 573. The investigation is ongoing.

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at General Smallwood Middle School: On April 11 at 11:20 a.m., two students at General Smallwood Middle School became involved in an altercation. During the fight, another student joined in. School administrators were able to separate the students. One of the students involved in the altercation sustained injuries and was treated by a school nurse. The school resource officer initiated an investigation and has consulted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges and the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services was contacted. The students face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Barry at 301-609-3282 ext. 0574.

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at General Smallwood Middle School: On April 11 at 11:20 a.m., two students at General Smallwood Middle School became involved in an altercation. During the fight, another student joined in. School administrators were able to separate the students. One of the students involved in the altercation sustained injuries and was treated by a school nurse. The school resource officer initiated an investigation and has consulted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges and the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services was contacted. The students face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Barry at 301-609-3282 ext. 0574.

Naval installations in the National Capital Region are preparing for the Navy’s annual Hurricane Exercise/Citadel Gale 2023 (HURREX/CG) scheduled to take place 24 April to 5 May, 2023 including Naval Support Activities Washington, South Potomac, and Bethesda; Naval Activity Annapolis; and Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River.

With this year’s hurricane season fast approaching (June 1-Nov. 30), HURREX/CG, led by U.S. Fleet Forces Command and Commander, Navy Installations Command, prepares the Navy to respond to adverse weather conditions in U.S. coastal regions and maintain the ability to deploy forces under the most severe conditions. It also tests the response times for accounting for Sailors, Department of Navy civilians and families in affected regions via the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS).

This year’s exercise comes on the heels of a particularly damaging hurricane season. While 2022’s Atlantic hurricane season had only 14 total storms and eight hurricanes, it was one of the costliest on record due to Hurricane Ian, which alone cost more than $113 billion dollars in damage and was noted to be Florida’s deadliest hurricane since 1935. Exercises such as HURREX/CG aim to train installation staff in the particulars of storm readiness and response.

“The purpose of the HURREX/CG exercise is to prepare our personnel for the impacts of a destructive weather event such as a hurricane,” explained Capt. Derrick Kingsley, NAS Patuxent River commanding officer. “And just like our security exercises, the primary goal is to maintain the safety of personnel in the event of an emergency. The moment disaster strikes is never the time to figure out how to respond, so we train like fight.”

Conducted over a two-week period, the first week of the exercise includes tracking the storm system’s evolution along the U.S. Atlantic coast, simulating upgrades to the installation’s Tropical Cyclone Condition of Readiness (TCCOR).  Other planned simulations include ship sorties, aircraft evacuations, base evacuations and disaster preparedness / response. The second week shifts focus to procedures for recovery, including lifting evacuation orders, reopening installations, and conducting damage assessments.

Base leadership is working with leadership form other commands at Pax River to ensure minimal impact is felt as installation staff train during these exercises.

While HURREX/CG helps to determine if there are any areas where the region or the installation can improve their ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters, personnel are encouraged to take charge of their own preparation and planning. Integral to this is keeping information up to date in the Navy Family and Accountability System (NFAAS) and reviewing storm preparedness guidelines from resources such as www.ready.navy.mil or www.ready.gov.

“NFAAS is an essential resource for locating Navy personnel and family members during crisis or natural disasters to ensure they’re safe,” said Kingsley. “And the resources available to our Navy families to help them be prepare for a disaster can literally save their lives in a disaster.”

To register with NFAAS, visit https://navyfamily.navy.mil.

Detectives Conducting Death Investigation on Woodberry Drive: On April 12 at 6:40 a.m., officers responded to the 2300 block of Woodberry Drive in Waldorf for the report of a person lying on the ground who appeared to be hurt. Upon arrival, officers located the victim, an adult female, deceased. The body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death as well as the identity of the victim. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Johnson at 301-609-6453. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. The identity of the decedent will be released once they have been positively identified. The investigation is ongoing.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) joined Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) in submitting an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in the case of Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA, in support of the Biden administration’s appeal of federal district court judge Matthew J. Kacsmaryk’s Friday ruling that suspends the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) more than 20-year-old approval of mifepristone—threatening access to mifepristone for patients nationwide, as well as FDA’s Congressionally-mandated authority and drug approval process.

In the new amicus brief, the Members of Congress underscore that the district court ruling has no basis in law, risks denying patients in every part of the country access to mifepristone, a safe and effective medication widely used in abortion care and miscarriage management for years, and jeopardizes patients’ access to a wide array of other medications by threatening FDA’s drug approval process, which was designed and mandated by Congress. Accordingly, they ask the court to stay the district court’s order.

“The district court appears to have second-guessed FDA’s scientific determinations with cherry-picked anecdotes and studies, and on that basis, imposed a remedy that could significantly upend the status quo,” wrote the lawmakers in their brief.

If the district court ruling were left to stand and were to go into effect, the Members stress that not only could patients in every state be denied access to the most common form of abortion care—and a key drug used in miscarriage management—but FDA’s authority to determine the safety and efficacy of other drugs would be put at risk, threatening patients’ access to all manner of other medications.

“[T]he district court’s misguided stay under Section 705 of the Administrative Procedure Act will reduce access to abortion, exacerbating an already significant reproductive health crisis,” continued the lawmakers, adding: “The consequences of the district court’s remedy could extend far beyond mifepristone, for it undermines the science-based, expert-driven process that Congress designed for determining whether drugs are safe and effective.”

“Its perilous consequences reach far beyond mifepristone. Providers and patients rely on the availability of thousands of FDA-approved drugs to treat or manage a range of medical conditions, including asthma, HIV, infertility, heart disease, diabetes, and more,” the lawmakers state.

The Members also explain that Congress specifically designed FDA’s expert-driven drug approval process to ensure that the medications relied on by Americans every day are safe and effective. FDA followed that careful review process before it approved mifepristone for use in 2000, and its approval has been repeatedly affirmed in the more than 20 years since.

“For the last century, a statutory scheme designed by Congress has assured the safety and effectiveness of the drugs available in the United States. At its core resides the application of scientific standards by agency experts,” the lawmakers write. “Here, FDA’s determination that mifepristone is safe and effective is based on a thorough and comprehensive review process prescribed and overseen by the legislative branch.  Since mifepristone’s initial approval in 2000, FDA has repeatedly and consistently reaffirmed that the medication is safe and effective for its approved conditions of use. FDA’s process and conclusions have been validated by both Congress and the Government Accountability Office—and by the lived experience of over 5 million patients who have used the drug in the United States.”

The lawmakers conclude by asking the Fifth Circuit to stay the decision, noting: “emergency relief from the order is necessary to mitigate the imminent harm facing members of the public, many of whom rely on the availability of mifepristone for reproductive care—and many more rely on the integrity of FDA’s drug approval process for continued access to life-improving and life-saving drugs. Congress intended to—and did—vest authority in FDA to evaluate and ensure the safety and efficacy of drugs in the United States, and Amici call on this Court to give due weight to that intent.”

In the Senate, the amicus brief, led by Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Senators Murray, Sanders, Durbin, and Blumenthal, was signed, in addition to Senators Van Hollen and Cardin, by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Bob Casey Jr. (D-Pa.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

In the House, the brief, led by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Representatives Katherine Clark, Frank Pallone, Jerry Nadler, Barbara Lee, and Diana DeGette, was signed by Representatives Adams, Allred, Aguilar, Auchincloss, Balint, Barraga?n, Beatty, Bera, Beyer, Bishop, Blumenauer, Blunt Rochester, Bonamici, Bowman, Boyle, Brown, Brownley, Budzinski, Bush, Caraveo, Carbajal, Ca?rdenas, Carter, Cartwright, Casar, Case, Casten, Castor, Castro, Cherfilus-McCormick, Chu, Cicilline, Clarke, Cleaver, Clyburn, Cohen, Connolly, Courtney, Craig, Crockett, Crow, Davids, Davis, Dean, DeLauro, DelBene, Deluzio, DeSaulnier, Dingell, Doggett, Escobar, Eshoo, Espaillat, Evans, Fletcher, Foster, Foushee, Frankel, Frost, Gallego, Garamendi, R. Garcia, C. Garci?a, Gluesenkamp Perez, Goldman, Gomez, Gottheimer, Green, Grijalva, Higgins, Himes, Holmes Norton, Horsford, Houlahan, Hoyer, Hoyle, Huffman, Ivey, Jackson Lee, Jacobs, Jayapal, Johnson, Kamlager-Dove, Kaptur, Kelly, Khanna, Kildee, Kilmer, Kim, Krishnamoorthi, Kuster, Landsman, Larson, Susie Lee, Summer Lee, Leger Fernandez, Levin, Lieu, Lofgren, Lynch, Magaziner, Manning, Matsui, McClellan, McCollum, McGovern, Meeks, Menendez, Meng, Moore, Morelle, Moskowitz, Mullin, Napolitano, Neal, Neguse, Nickel, Norcross, Ocasio-Cortez, Omar, Panetta, Pappas, Pascrell, Payne, Pelosi, Peltola, Peters, Pettersen, Phillips, Pingree, Pocan, Porter, Pressley, Quigley, Raskin, Ross, Ruiz, Ruppersberger, Ryan, Sablan, Salinas, Sa?nchez, Sarbanes, Scanlon, Schakowsky, Schiff, Scholten, Schrier, Bobby Scott, Sewell, Sherman, Sherrill, Slotkin, Smith, Sorensen, Soto, Spanberger, Stansbury, Stanton, Stevens, Strickland, Swalwell, Sykes, Takano, Thompson, Titus, Tlaib, Tokuda, Tonko, Ritchie Torres, Norma Torres, Trahan, Trone, Underwood, Vasquez, Veasey, Vela?zquez, Wasserman Schultz, Waters, Watson Coleman, Wexton, Wild, Williams, and Wilson.

The lawmakers’ amicus brief can be read in full HERE.

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. – Residents of The Woods community are advised that a nighttime flights are scheduled to take place in your vicinity on April 18 through June 1, 2023.

In an effort to lessen the disturbance of these missions, we have instructed our pilots to fly the lowest altitude portion of their flights prior to midnight, when possible.

These missions are crucial to our national security.

Keep in mind that there are a multitude of factors that could shift the scheduling and execution of these flights, which are always conducted in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration and Navy regulations.

NAS Patuxent River appreciates your understanding and will continue to take precautions to lessen the impact of flight operations on the community.  For more information call 1-866-819-9028.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, today responded to the Small Business Administration’s finalized rules making changes to its lending programs. These rules lift the moratorium on licensing new Small Business Lending Companies, create a new SBLC license designation for non-profit organizations with a focus on lending to underserved communities, and make changes to the affiliation and lending criteria for SBA Business Loan Programs.

“The Small Business Administration understands the importance of access to capital for our underserved entrepreneurs. It’s also a priority of ours at the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, which is why I appreciate SBA’s willingness to focus on this issue,” said Chair Cardin. “While I have concerns with some of these changes, I know we have a shared commitment to filling gaps in capital markets for underserved communities. There is no question that improvements can be made to SBA’s lending programs to allow them to assist more businesses in these communities, and I look forward to working with Administrator Guzman and my colleagues on the Committee to ensure that the rules’ intended purpose is fulfilled.”

During the week of April 3 – April 9, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,611 calls for service throughout the community. 

Theft: 23-24143
On April 6, 2023, Deputy Shoemaker responded to the 11300 block of Rawhide Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his rear Maryland registration plate was stolen from his vehicle. The estimated value of stolen property is $100.

Theft: 23-24569
On April 8, 2023, DFC Sturdivant responded to the Giant Food Store located at 10790 Town Center Boulevard in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft in progress. Investigation revealed three black females entered the store, filled up shopping baskets with food and walked past all points of sale without paying for the merchandise. The females exited the store and got into a dark colored Chevrolet Malibu and fled the area. The estimated value of stolen items is unknown at this time.

ARRESTS
On April 4, 2023, Deputy Hendrickson initiated a traffic stop in the area of Rt. 4 and Patuxent Point Parkway in Solomons, for a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the driver, James Jeremiah McLaughlin, 30 of Port Republic, McLaughlin advised he did not have a license. Further investigation revealed, 2 needles, a round cap with a white residue (suspected Heroin), and a clear bag tied off containing a white powdery substance (suspected Heroin). McLaughlin was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

On April 5, 2023, Deputy McCourt was on patrol in the area of the Wawa located at 305 Market Square Drive in Prince Frederick. Upon entry into the Wawa, Deputy McCourt observed Nyequaan Jacquice Washington, 25 of no fixed address, who had been previously trespassed from the establishment. Washington was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.

On April 5, 2023, two individuals flagged down DFC Wilder for a ride to the Quality Inn in Solomons. The passengers were advised they would be checked for weapons prior to being placed into the cage of Deputy Wilder’s marked agency-issued patrol vehicle. While en route to the Quality Inn, passenger Dior Christopher Christian, 53 of Lusby, was observed placing his hands into the front of his jeans as if he was hiding a controlled dangerous substance. Christian was asked about the incident and pulled out one paper fold containing six white rock like substances (suspected crack) from his person and handed it to Deputy Wilder. Christian was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. 
 
On April 8, 2023, Deputy Hendrickson initiated a traffic stop in the area of Town Square Drive and Gunsmoke Trail in Lusby for a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the occupants, a strong odor of burnt marijuana was emitting from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed, glass marijuana pipes, blunt wrappers, and smoked joints were observed throughout the vehicle. A dark-colored “Charter Arms Corp. Undercover .38 special” revolver was also recovered. Passenger Jonathan Joseph Townsend, 18 of Lusby, claimed ownership of the property and was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Handgun in a Vehicle and Possession of a Firearm Under the Age of 21.
 
Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at (410) 535-2800 and reference the case number provided. Citizens may remain anonymous thru the ‘Submit a Tip’ feature on the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office mobile app. To download, visit https://apps.myocv.com/share/a39520678 . Tipsters may also email ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov

The last day of school for Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) students for the 2022-2023 school year is Thursday, June 8. 

The last day of school for teachers is Friday, June 9. These dates are final, barring any unforeseen inclement weather as CCPS still has four inclement weather days left for use if needed. 

The following is the end-of year schedule for students.  

• Monday, June 5: Two-hour early dismissal for students.  

• Tuesday, June 6: Two-hour early dismissal for students. 

   

• Wednesday, June 7: Two-hour early dismissal for students. 

• Thursday, June 8: Two-hour early dismissal for students, last day of school for students. 

• Friday, June 9: Last day of school for teachers. 

The last four days of school – June 5, 6, 7 and 8 – are early dismissal days for students to allow for report card preparation and include negotiated teacher planning time. 

Report cards for students will be posted online in ParentVue and StudentVue by Thursday, June 15. 

The following end-of-year dates apply to other CCPS staff. 

• 12-month teachers’ last day is June 21. 
• 11-month certificated staff last day is June 26. 
• 10.5-month certificated staff last day is June 16. 
• 11-month support staff last day is June 28. 
• 10-month teachers’ last day is June 9.  
• 10.5-month support staff last day is June 22. 
• 10-month support staff (10-month secretaries and IEP clerks) last day is June 12. 
• 10-month instructional assistants’ last day is June 9. 
• 10-month food service manager/assistant manager last day is June 13. 
• 10-month food service workers’ last day is June 9. 

Employees with questions about their last workday should contact their supervisor. 

With the end of SNAP emergency allotments, hunger advocates are sounding the alarm over food insecurity in Maryland. The USDA reports food price inflation continues with the most recent data showing food prices 9.5 percent higher than a year ago. In March, SNAP benefits returned to their pre-pandemic level with the average benefit falling back to $6 dollars per person per day. Food Research and Action Center data shows over 360,000 households in the state will be affected by SNAP benefit cuts. The economic impact of that reduction in federal support is calculated to be nearly 700 million dollars for the year. Michael J. Wilson with the non-profit Maryland Hunger Solutions says the benefit reductions will be felt broadly.

"The impact on grocery stores on farmers markets on corner stores on our food system is also going to be negative. And it could have economic impacts that affect employment, affect jobs and affect hours. Whether you work at a grocery store or you're a transporter, and it will eventually even impact farmers. It's going to impact the entire food system and it won't stop at low-income folks."

 The non-profit group Feeding America estimates SNAP provides nine times as many meals as food banks.

Low income Marylanders got a boost last week as the General Assembly passed Governor Wes Moore's bill to accelerate the state's transition to a $15 dollar per hour minimum wage. Businesses of all sizes will be required to pay the new minimum wage by January 1st. Wilson says in any conversation about food insecurity wages must be considered.

 "I think the effort to raise the minimum wage is critical in these kinds of conversations. Let's not pretend that a lot of the SNAP recipients aren't already working, they're just not not earning enough to be able to escape poverty so everything we can do to help alleviate poverty helps in all of the food and nutrition programs. "

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources Division, advises citizens the Maryland Forest Service will be conducting controlled burns at the following locations:

·         Battle Creek Cypress Swamp (2880 Grays Road, Prince Frederick)

·         Gatewood Preserve (2880 Grays Road, Prince Frederick)

·         Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm (2695 Grays Road, Prince Frederick)

The parks will be closed to the public during the burns. Smoke will be visible in the immediate area of the burns and emergency vehicles and personnel will be stationed along Grays Road. The tentative dates for the controlled burns are April 12 through May 12. The dates for the controlled burns are subject to change based on weather conditions.

Controlled burns help rejuvenate meadow vegetation by removing excessive thatch buildup, invasive plant species, and stimulating germination of native season grasses.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) students from the Career and Technology Academy (CTA) and Calvert High School recently competed in the 50th annual SkillsUSA Maryland Leadership and Skills Conference held in Anne Arundel County on March 24-25, 2023. Over 1,200 Maryland Career and Technical Education (CTE) students from all 23 counties and Baltimore City participated in over 90 occupational and leadership skill events.

The competition was fierce, but 30 Calvert County students managed to bring home top honors in multiple contests this year. They earned gold in twelve contests, silver in six contests, and bronze in three contests. The students who earned gold are now qualified to represent Maryland at the National Skills and Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, from June 19-23, 2023.

Mrs. Robin Wells, CCPS lead SkillsUSA advisor at the Career & Technology Academy, recognized as SkillsUSA Region 4 Advisor of the Year.

Calvert County Career & Technical Academy attend SkillsUSA awards ceremony. Credit: Calvert County Public Schools
“The excellence of our students and through them, our incredible teachers, was well-displayed throughout this weekend’s events,” said CTA Principal, Carrie Akins. “Our students demonstrated technical prowess, patience, perseverance, and the highest levels of professionalism throughout these challenging competitions. I am so proud of our students who dedicated hours of practice and hard work to prepare for this year’s competition.”

In addition to winning awards, CCPS students will also represent SkillsUSA at both the State and National level with participating state officers and national voting delegates. Callie Nicholson was elected to serve on the SkillsUSA Maryland State Officer Team for the 2023-24 School Year. This marks the fourth consecutive year that at least one CTA student will serve in this capacity. Nathan Coston and Matthew Thompson were selected as SkillsUSA National Voting Delegates for the upcoming National Skills Leadership Conference. Both state officers and national voting delegates are elected to serve in these positions by students from across the state during a delegate assembly held on the first day of the annual conference.

The success of the Calvert County students was not limited to just the participants. Mrs. Robin Wells, lead SkillsUSA advisor at the Career & Technology Academy, was honored as SkillsUSA Region 4 Advisor of the Year during a special presentation within the awards ceremony held Saturday night.

The CTA SkillsUSA Chapter itself also received recognition at the statewide event, receiving recognition at the silver level for being a Chapter of Excellence Program (CEP). The recognition signifies the chapter’s commitment to carrying out the work of education through the SkillsUSA Framework, which emphasizes personal, workplace, and technical skills.

The SkillsUSA Maryland State Conference is a highly-anticipated annual event that brings together students, teachers, and industry leaders to showcase the best in CTE education. For the 50th year, Maryland students came together to compete, demonstrate their skills, and learn from each other.

The Maryland State Conference is just one of many SkillsUSA events held throughout the year. SkillsUSA is a national membership association serving high school, college, and middle school students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations. SkillsUSA programs include local, state, and national competitions in which students demonstrate occupational and leadership skills. SkillsUSA’s mission is to empower its members to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens.

The success of the Calvert County students at the 50th annual SkillsUSA Maryland Leadership and Skills Conference is a testament to the dedication of the students, teachers, and staff at CCPS. Congratulations to all of the students who participated, and good luck to those who will represent Maryland at the National Skills and Leadership Conference in Atlanta this June.

Congratulations to the following students earned top three honors at the State Competition:

AUTOMOTIVE MAINTENANCE & LIGHT REPAIR
GOLD – Thomas Marshall

COMMUNITY SERVICE (team of 3)
GOLD – Jessica Cecil, Nathan Hawley and Jaydin Johnson

COSMETOLOGY
BRONZE – Savannah Stewart

HVAC
GOLD – William Walton

ESTHETICS
GOLD – Adly Paau Pesquera

EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING
GOLD – Benjamin Smith

EMT (team of 2)
SILVER – Caroline Robinson and Travis Winston

FIREFIGHTING
GOLD – Nicholas Boswell

GRAPHIC SUBLIMATION
GOLD – AJ Halsey

HEALTH KNOWLEDGE BOWL (team of 4)
BRONZE – Moier Graham, Katherine Greene, Jaiden Jacobs and Sarah Kelley

MEDICAL ASSISTING
GOLD – Sember Lester SILVER – Faith Murphy

NURSE ASSISTING
GOLD – Averi Lewis SILVER – Matthew Bowie

PHOTOGRAPHY
SILVER – Nathan Coston

POWER EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY
GOLD – Maxwell Brexler SILVER – Koedy Reitz BRONZE – Matthew Piriz

SCREEN PRINTING TECHNOLOGY
GOLD – Kei Chapman

STATE T-SHIRT DESIGN
SILVER – Caroline Hyder

TEAMWORKS (team of 4)
GOLD – Mason Kidwell, Logan Kinner, Gabriella Mejia Moran, Tyler Smith

April 11, 2023

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the whereabouts of Dimitri Paul Brooks, age 28 of Lexington Park, wanted for Second-Degree Escape for absconding from an authorized residential treatment facility on April 5, 2023. Brooks is awaiting sentencing for Violation of Probation: First-Degree Assault.

Anyone with information on Brooks’ whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Joseph Bowling at 301-475-4200, ext. 71959 or email joseph.bowling@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

April 11, 2023:

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Alcohol Enforcement Unit recently conducted a series of alcohol compliance checks at 18 businesses in northern and central St. Mary’s County. Seventeen of the establishments were found to be compliant, while only one business failed to ask an underage person for identification.

The covert compliance checks were conducted on Thursday, March 30, 2023, starting at 3 pm, utilizing an underage individual. The 19-year-old was wearing plain clothes and was directed to enter each business to order or retrieve an alcoholic beverage for purchase.

Of the 18 businesses visited, 17 (94 percent) were found in compliance with Maryland law and required identification from the underage person. One business failed to ask for identification or failed to corroborate the person’s age and the underage individual was able to purchase an alcoholic beverage underage.

Businesses found in compliance were: Pal Liquors & Gas in Leonardtown; Centre Liquors in Leonardtown; Third Base Store in Loveville; St. Mary’s Gas Station in Clements; Village Liquors in Chaptico; Chaptico Market in Chaptico; Race-N In in Budds Creek; Vino 2 Wine & Liquor in Charlotte Hall; Lighthouse in Charlotte Hall; Fred’s Liquor in Charlotte Hall; New Market Service Center in Mechanicsville; Big Dogs’ Paradise in Mechanicsville; A & B Liquor in Mechanicsville; DJ’s One Stop Shop in Mechanicsville; Korner Karryout in Mechanicsville; Cook’s Liquor in Hollywood and Bradfords Neighborhood Market in Hollywood.

The one business found to be in violation was Leonardtown Wine & Spirits in Leonardtown.

The alcohol violation report was forwarded to the St. Mary’s County Alcohol Beverage Board for review.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is warning the public of a sharp increase in the trafficking of fentanyl mixed with a powerful non-opioid animal sedative, xylazine - a deadly combination commonly known as “Tranq”. This dangerous illicit drug mixture has been found across the U.S. states, including in St. Mary’s County. 
 
Xylazine and fentanyl drug mixtures place users at a higher risk of suffering a fatal drug poisoning. Because xylazine is not an opioid, naloxone (Narcan®) will not work to reverse its effects. People who inject drug mixtures containing xylazine also can develop severe wounds involving necrosis—the rotting of skin tissue—that may lead to amputation. 
 
St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) encourages those who are using illicit substances to seek professional help for their substance use disorder. Help is available in the community. Individuals can be connected to local treatment options through the SMCHD website, calling 301-862-1680, or walking in Monday-Friday during business hours at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub. The Health Hub also offers the SMCHD Harm Reduction Program (HRP) to help mitigate the harms associated with drug use – such as overdoses, wounds, and infections - and encourage people into treatment when they are ready for it. The HRP provides infectious disease testing, narcan, and ways to test drug paraphernalia (such as pill bottles and syringes) for presence of fentanyl or other substances like xylazine. 
 
“Illicit fentanyl is already a dangerous drug, but when it is combined with xylazine, it becomes even deadlier,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Narcan may help to reverse the fatal breathing problem that fentanyl can cause but it won’t work on xylazine. If you’re using drugs, get help - treatment options are available and recovery is possible.”
 
“Drug addiction is a serious public health issue. St. Mary’s County residents need to be aware of xylazine and its dangerous effects. If you or a loved one suffers from addiction, please seek treatment through the resources provided by the St. Mary’s County Health Department and community partners before it’s too late,” Sheriff Steve Hall said.
 
For further information about the SMCHD Harm Reduction Program, visit smchd.org/harmreduction 
 
For more information about programs and resources provided at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, visit smchd.org/hub. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. at Chopticon High School, located at 25390 Colton Point Road in Morganza, to consider adoption of:

1. Constant Yield Tax Rate (“Real Property Tax Increase”)
2. St. Mary’s County fees and charges for the following Departments:
   1. Aging & Human Services – Senior Center Room Rental Rates
   2. Emergency Services – Rescue Billing Transport Fees
   3. Land Use & Growth Management – Development Service Fees
   4. Recreation & Parks – Wicomico Golf Course Fees
   5. Recreation & Parks – Recreation Activity Fees
   6. Soil Conservation – Erosion & Sediment Control Fees
3. Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department Tax Rate Increase to .056
4. FY2024 Recommended Budget

Copies of the FY2024 Recommended Budget are available online at: stmaryscountymd.gov/publichearings or from the St. Mary’s County Department of Finance.

Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the public hearing. Those wishing to address the Commissioners may participate in-person or provide their feedback via:

• Email to: csmc@stmaryscountymd.gov 
• Mail to: PO Box 653 Leonardtown, Maryland 20650

All submissions must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 2, 2023. All submissions will be considered by the Commissioners at the Public Hearing and/or up to seven days following the Public Hearing.

Commissioners of St. Mary’s County Public Hearings are televised live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) TV Channel 95 and streamed live on the SMCG YouTube Channel.

On Thursday night at 9:46 p.m., one Hundred Firefighters were called to a single family dwelling on Smallwood Church Road in Indian Head for a fire. Firefighters arrived and found a large volume of fire in the roof area.  A structural collapse of the roof structure occurred shortly after arrival, necessitating a defensive attack.  Firefighters were unable to extinguish areas of hidden fire and made the determination  to allow the fire to burn until it was accessible by master streams the following morning. The smoke alarms were activated and alerted the occupants. It took the firefighters 14 hours to control the blaze. The estimated loss in the fire was $750,000. The fire is under investigation by the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Charles County Government is accepting applications for the Waldorf Urban Redevelopment Corridor Façade Improvement Program. Businesses along Old Washington Road between Leonardtown Road and Acton Lane are encouraged to apply to upgrade buildings and other eligible improvements. Completed applications must be filed with the Department of Planning and Growth Management by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, May 15.

The Waldorf Urban Redevelopment Corridor Façade Improvement Program is intended to help revitalize the area and create an identifiable sense of place in the traditional heart of Waldorf. Eligible projects include exterior repairs, façade painting, entries/doorway and window repairs, awnings, attached lighting, and signage to commercial properties.  

Projects must be consistent with the Downtown Waldorf Vision Plan and Design Guidelines to be eligible, and a cash match is required. To view the Downtown Waldorf Vision Plan and Design Guidelines, visit here.

For more information or questions on the program or to apply, interested property and business owners should visit WURC Façade Improvement Program or contact Ashley Hudson at HudsonAs@CharlesCountyMD.gov or 301-645-0584.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) joined Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Senate colleagues in introducing legislation to close a current loophole that allows gun sales to proceed if a background check is not completed within a specific time period, even if the gun buyer is not legally allowed to purchase a gun. The gap in existing law has allowed thousands of gun sales to prohibited buyers, including the sale of the firearm used by the shooter in the deadly attack at Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church. U.S. Representative James E. Clyburn (D-S.C.) is introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

 
“This dangerous loophole has allowed gun dealers to put deadly firearms in the hands of buyers who haven’t even passed a simple background check – closing it is just common sense,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“We know that universal background checks save lives,” said Senator Cardin. “Let’s finally do what the American people support and require federal background checks for all gun sales. This cannot wait.”

“If you haven’t passed a background check, you shouldn’t be able to purchase a weapon. No check, no gun. It’s really that simple,” said Senator Blumenthal.

When a criminal background check indicates that a firearm purchaser may have a criminal record, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tries to determine whether the purchaser can legally buy a gun. If this process takes longer than 72 hours for those 21 years of age or older, or 10 days for those under 21, gun dealers can complete the sale even though there is a heightened risk that the purchaser is legally disqualified from purchasing a gun.

The Background Check Completion Act would require a completed background check for every gun buyer who purchases a gun from a federally-licensed gun dealer.

Senators Van Hollen and Cardin have long pushed for common-sense legislative action to protect communities from gun violence. The Senators fought to pass the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, legislation that was signed into law last year, which included first steps to prevent gun violence and save lives across the country. This past January, the Senators joined in introducing a pair of bills to reinstate the assault weapons ban. The Senators have also previously introduced the Keep Americans Safe Act to ban the importation, sale, manufacturing, transfer, or possession of gun magazines that hold more than ten rounds of ammunition. Senator Van Hollen has also introduced both the ATF Improvement and Modernization (AIM) Act to better equip the ATF to crack down on gun violence and the illegal use of firearms and the Handgun Permit-to-Purchase Act to incentivize state and local governments to implement permit-to-purchase laws that require individuals to obtain a license before purchasing a handgun.

In addition to Senators Van Hollen and Cardin, the Background Check Completion Act, led by Senator Blumenthal, is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.).

The legislation has been endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, Brady, Sandy Hook Promise and Newtown Action Alliance.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Wayne Carroll Key, Jr., 43, of Lexington Park, Maryland of first degree murder of a child and her mother stemming from the November 2021 killing of both victims.

The trial started last week and continued into this week -- spanning eight days. Over 200 pieces of evidence were admitted for the jury’s consideration. The jury heard testimony from over 40 witnesses. The State called four expert witnesses to include experts in DNA, historical cell phone mapping, microscopy, and forensic medicine.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling said, “The unimaginable killing of a child and her mother is truly despicable. I want to extend my sincerest condolences to the family of our victims. Although nothing can ever bring back our innocent victims, my hope is that with these convictions the family may begin the process of healing.”

Sterling added, “Understanding the difficult and sensitive content of the testimony and the disturbing physical evidence presented to them, the jury remained patient and professional throughout the entire trial. I want to thank them for keeping their focus and paying close attention to the tremendous amount of testimony and evidence.”

“I want to extend a very special thank you to all of the police officers, crime lab technicians, allied agencies and the State’s Attorney’s Office’s support staff for their assistance and involvement with helping to bring closure and justice for the victims’ family.” said Sterling. 

The lead prosecutor, Chief of the Special Victims Unit Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Sarah Proctor, was joined by Assistant State’s Attorney Joe Boyd, who prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

The lead detective was Detective Tyler Payne of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

Additional agencies who assisted with the investigation and trial included:  Homeland Security Investigations, Maryland State Police Forensics, MicroTrace, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, St. Mary’s County Department of Social Services, and St. Mary’s County Geographic Information Systems.

Mr. Key will be held without bond pending sentencing.

The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided over the case.

Patrol Officers and Detectives Identify and Arrest Suspect in Armed Robbery Case / Firearm Recovered: On April 4 at 7:50 p.m., officers responded to the 1000 block of Bannister Circle for the call of an armed robbery in which the victim reported he was robbed, at gunpoint, of his cell phone. The victim provided officers with a description of the suspect. Through further investigation, officers located the suspect in the 11700 block of Norbeck Court in Waldorf. Investigators obtained a search warrant for the suspect’s residence and recovered evidence linking him to the robbery. Bryson Delaney Smith, 18, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with armed robbery, first-degree assault, illegal possession of a firearm, theft and other related charges. On April 6, a judge ordered Smith to be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. Officer Holt and Detective Logsdon investigated.

Patrol Officers Recover Firearm during Traffic Stop: On April 5 at 12:38 a.m., officers initiated a traffic stop in the 1100 block of Smallwood Drive in Waldorf. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer detected the odor of marijuana. Further investigation revealed marijuana inside the car and a loaded firearm. Destini Ann Thompson, 24, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged. On April 5, a district court commissioners released Thompson from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance. Officer Heishman is investigating.  

Suspect in Attempted Murder Case Located and Arrested / Two Others Charged with Unrelated Crimes: On April 4, officers initiated a traffic stop in the area Ashford Circle and Altenburg Court in Waldorf; one of the occupants of the car was known to have an open warrant for attempted murder. Upon approaching the vehicle, officers observed numerous syringes, drug paraphernalia, heroin and crack / cocaine inside the car. The occupant with the open warrant, Raymond Keith Meredith, 53, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and other charges in connection with a shooting that occurred on March 28 in the 4100 block of Falcon Place in Waldorf. Two other occupants of the vehicle, Delaina Kyle Sweet, 34, of White Plains, and Albert Grandston Lee James, 64, of Waldorf, were arrested and charged with possession of drugs. On April 4, a district court commissioner released Sweet and James from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance. On April 5, a judge ordered Meredith to be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. Det. Bringley is investigating. 

(WELCOME, MD) – Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash in Charles County.

The deceased is identified as Alan Reinburg, 34, of Mechanicsville. Emergency medical service personnel pronounced Reinburg deceased on the scene.

The operator of an F-150 truck involved in the crash is identified as Jeffrey Grasso, 37, of Newburg, Maryland. He was transported to the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center for medical treatment.

At approximately 2:20 p.m. today, troopers from the La Plata Barrack responded to the report of a crash involving a motorcycle on Route 6/Port Tobacco Road at Academy Place in Welcome, Maryland. The preliminary investigation indicates a Ford F-150 was traveling eastbound on Port Tobacco Road while a motorcycle was traveling westbound. For reasons unknown at this time, the driver of the Ford F-150 crossed the double yellow center line and struck the motorcycle.

Personnel from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration assisted with a detour around the crash scene. Personnel from the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office also responded to the scene.

The cause and contributing factors of the crash remain under investigation. Witnesses of the incident are urged to contact Crash Team investigators at 301-392-1231. The investigation continues…

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $98,531,000 to Maryland to upgrade essential drinking water infrastructure. Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments made through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s infrastructure investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”

“This historic funding is going toward a most vital resource – drinking water,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “Marylanders in neighborhoods from urban corners in Baltimore and the Eastern Shore to rural communities in the Appalachian Plateau will benefit with clean and safe water from their taps.”

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

“Maryland works in partnership with the EPA to ensure that all communities across our state, including those that are underserved and overburdened, have safe and sustainable supplies of drinking water,” said Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain. “We are particularly focused on making the best use of the EPA’s water infrastructure funding to build on our work to identify lead pipes for replacement and to help water systems pay for improvements to reduce PFAS risks to their customers.”

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Students from the Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center in Leonardtown, MD recently participated in the 50^th Annual SkillsUSA Maryland State Leadership and Skills Conference which took place in the greater Anne Arundel County and Baltimore areas. The contests that Forrest Center students competed in were as varied as the program offerings at the center. At the awards ceremony, forty-seven Forrest Center earned medals. Results are as follows:

Emergency Medical Technician 

Gold- Kaelyn White (Academy of Health), CJ Bell (Fire/EMT)

Video News Production

Gold- Jaylen Johnson, Jamison Johnson, Kaleb Dziekan, James Dennis (TV/Video)

Silver- Avery Harding, Louis Coppola, Joseph Grimm, Chloe Butrym  (TV/Video)

Principles of Technology 

Silver- Aidan Wrightson (Engineering)

Bronze- James Wilquest (Engineering)

TeleCommuniciation Cabling

Gold- Samuel Rooney (Electrical Wiring)

SIlver- Connor Ferrall (Electrical Wiring)

Bronze- Dylan Wheeler (Electrical Wiring)

Information Technology Services 

Bronze- Owen Joy (IT Networking)

Internet of Things

Gold- Amar Holiday (IT Networking)

Dental Assisting

Bronze - Dakota Headley (Dental Assisting)

Additive Manufacturing 

Silver- Nerissa Jobell, John Shorb (CADD)

Engineering Technology Design

Gold - Zoey Dellapietro (Academy of Health), Brianna Rourke (Engineering), Julian Alvey (Engineering)

Promotional Bulletin Board

Bronze - Melanie Scott (Teacher Academy), Gabriel Cannavo (Teacher Academy), Abigail Cronkright (Graphics)

Medical Terminology

Silver - Allison Curtis (Academy of Health)

Commercial UaS Drone

Gold - Teddy Bates, Bella Heckathorn (Engineering)

Audio/Radio Production

Gold - Linnea Clarke, Isaac Reina (TV/Video)

Collision Damage Appraisal

Silver - Ryan Tucker (Auto Refinishing)

Electrical Wiring

Silver - Colton Raley(Electrical Wiring)

First Aid/CPR

Gold - Amanda Hill (Academy of Health)

Quiz Bowl

Bronze - Kimberly Valdivia (Engineering), Ava Gueverara (Engineering), Jack Bateman(Engineering), Jacob Wathen (IT Networking), James Fullarton III (IT Networking)

Auto Refinishing Technology

Bronze - Kyleigh Bennett (Auto Refinishing)

Health Knowledge Bowl

Gold - Emily Smetana, Jordyn Walters, Riley Lillard, Lindsey Magill (Academy of Health Professions)

Career Pathways Showcase - Industrial

Silver - Valeria Cervantes-Corona, Logan Berry, Kaitlyn Pyles (Electrical Wiring)

All gold medal winners are also qualified to compete at the SkillsUSA National Skills and Leadership Conference to be held in Atlanta, GA the week of June 19, 2023.

In addition to the competition medal winners, Forrest Center students Brianna Rourke (Engineering) and Makayla Porter (CADD) were elected as state officers. Camille Van Erp (IT Networking) and Allison Curtis (Academy of Health Professions) were also elected as National Voting Delegates.

Twenty-four Forrest Center students are planning to represent the state of Maryland in Atlanta, Georgia this year. Fundraising efforts are currently underway. If you would like to donate toward the students' trip, please contact the school at 301-475-0242 and ask for Ms. Mary Thompson or Mr. Michael Stevens.

Officers Recover Drugs and Loaded Firearm during Investigation of Suspicious Vehicle: On April 2 at 1:38 a.m., a patrol officer initiated an investigation into a suspicious vehicle that was found parked after-hours near businesses in the 11900 block of Acton Lane in Waldorf. As the officer approached the vehicle, he detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the car. One of the vehicle’s occupants, age 17, was found to be in possession of 23 grams of marijuana and a loaded firearm with a fully loaded 30-round magazine in his coat pocket. The occupant was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm, possession of a drugs, and other related charges. Officer Butler is investigating.

During the week of March 27 – April 2, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,991 calls for service throughout the community.

Motor Vehicle Theft: 23-22707

On March 31, 2023, Cpl. Jacobs was on routine patrol in the Prince Frederick area when he was flagged down by a citizen in front of the Domino’s Pizza located at 21 Church Street, for the theft of a motor vehicle. The victim advised his 2004 blue Ford F350 with an EZ-Dumper dump bed and 1-888-DUMPERS on the tailgate was stolen from the parking lot. The victim’s personal belongings to include four US Passports were also stolen. The estimated value of stolen property is $14,520.00.

Motor Vehicle Theft: 23-22970

On April 1, 2023, Cpl. Robshaw responded to Gateway Restaurant, located at 5455 Broomes Island Road in Port Republic, for the report of a motor vehicle theft. Investigation revealed a burgundy 2018 Custom Harley Davidson Street Glide was stolen from the parking lot sometime between 6:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. The estimated value of stolen property is $60,000.00.

Theft: 23-21416

On March 27, 2023, Deputy Tavares responded to the 9000 block of Pardoe Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised that a rear license plate had been stolen off of a school bus. The estimated value of stolen property is $50.

Theft: 23-21952

On March 29, 2023, DFC Plant responded to the 2300 block of Sixes Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised two four wheelers (a dark green 2016 Honda Foreman 500 and a dark green 2018 Honda Rancher 500) along with a homemade trailer had been stolen from the property sometime between Dec. 27, 2022 and March 29, 2023. The estimated value of stolen property is $7,100.

ARRESTS

On March 28, 2023, at 7:41 a.m., deputies responded to Dunkirk Hardware & Home Center located at 10745 Town Center Boulevard in Dunkirk, for the reported commercial burglary that had already occurred. Deputies arrived on scene and observed a front glass window had been broken out. The complainant advised an additional commercial burglary occurred at the same business on March 3, and the suspect in that case broke the same window and stole chainsaws. An investigation revealed 3 Stihl chainsaws had been stolen from the business around 12:39 a.m. on March 28. Footage from nearby surveillance was obtained and deputies were able to obtain the suspect’s identity. The suspect, Tavaughn Grafton Brown, 30 of Chesapeake Beach, was located at his place of employment wearing the same clothing and shoes observed in the surveillance footage. Brown was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office where he confessed to both burglaries. Brown was then transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Burlgary-2^nd Degree, Burglary-4^th Degree Theft, Theft: $1500 to Under $25,000, and Malicious Destruction of Property.

Tavaughn Grafton Brown

On March 31, 2023, at 10:46 a.m., Deputy Tavares responded to the 300 block of Towanda Trail in Lusby, for the report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male victim suffering from a stab wound to his lower back. Deputies rendered aid until medic units arrived and transported the victim to a landing site where he was flown to University of Maryland Capital Regional Medical Center. The suspect, Erick Antonio Gonzalez, 22 of Silver Spring, was apprehended on scene and taken into custody. Gonzalez was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Assault-1st Degree-Knife or Cutting Instrument, Assault-2nd Degree; Simple Assault, and Reckless Endangerment.

 

On March 31, 2023, Deputy Tavares initiated a traffic stop in the area of Rousby Hall Road and Barreda Blvd. in Lusby, for a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the driver, Corey Joavon Harrod, 36 of Lusby, a strong odor of Cannabis was emitting from the vehicle.  A vehicle search revealed $625 in US Currency, four grocery bags of individually wrapped Cannabis, and two cell phones. The total amount of Cannabis recovered was 374.5 grams. Harrod was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Cannabis Packing Possible Distribution/ CDS: Possession of Cannabis 10 GM+.

On March 28, 2023, S/DFC Cress initiated a traffic stop with lights and sirens activated in the area of Chesapeake Beach Road East and Cox Road in Chesapeake Beach, on a vehicle travelling at a high rate. The suspect vehicle entered radar at 74 mph in a posted 40 mph zone. The vehicle continued to travel at a high rate, accelerating to speeds of 120 mph, failing to stop. As the vehicle approached the exit for Southern Maryland Blvd., deputies deployed stop sticks which took effect causing the vehicle to come to a final rest in the area of Lower Pindell Road. A felony stop was conducted, and a vehicle search revealed a bag containing suspected cocaine, a digital scale, and a prescription bottle with an unknown medication. The driver, Terrance Kirby Cheek, 30 of Bowie, was taken into custody. Investigation revealed Cheek had no valid driver’s license. Cheek was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

Terrance Kirby Cheek

On March 28, 2023, at 7:44 a.m., Deputy Tavares received a call to check the welfare of individuals lying face down in the sand at Seahorse Beach in Lusby. Upon arrival, deputies observed a female lying face down who was overdosing. While administering aid to the female, a male on scene was attempting to conceal a pill container. The bottle contained multiple light blue oval shaped pills and a white and red colored capsule. The male suspect attempted to walk away and was observed placing multiple individually packaged capsules containing a white powdery substance (suspected Fentanyl) in a nearby vehicle. The suspected Fentanyl was weighed and found to have a weight of 12.5 grams. The suspect, Kenneth Allen Charest, 41 of Lusby, was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS Possession – Large Amount, Distribution/ PWID-Fentanyl/Heroin, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, Altering Physical Evidence, and Obstructing and Hindering.
 

Due to a decline in resources associated with the upcoming end of the federal COVID-19 emergency, the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be changing COVID-19 testing operations beginning Monday, April 10, 2023. 
 
On-site rapid PCR COVID-19 testing will be available Monday - Friday, by appointment only, at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub drive-thru, located at 21625 Great Mills Road in Lexington Park. Results will be available in the patient portal within 4 hours. To schedule an appointment for PCR COVID-19 testing, community members should call 301-997-8232.
 
COVID-19 vaccines will continue to be available at the SMCHD Health Clinic in Leonardtown on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. by appointment only. To make a vaccine appointment, please call SMCHD at 301-475-4330. COVID-19 vaccines are also available through primary care offices and local pharmacies.
 
For more information about COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, please visit smchd.org/coronavirus/. 

April 5, 2023:

On Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at 10:37 pm, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the parking lot of the Great Mills Sheetz at the 20700 block of Old Great Mills Road for a report of shots fired. A short time later, deputies also responded to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown for a report of a victim who arrived with multiple gunshot wounds. The victim, identified as Marcus Anthony Day, age 26 of Leonardtown, was pronounced deceased.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Investigations Division is continuing the investigation.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to contact Detective Andrew Burgess at 301-475-4200, ext. 78041 or email andrew.burgess@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Anyone with cellphone video or images who was present at the scene is urged to visit the Sheriff’s Office’s Citizen Upload Video Evidence Portal at https://www.firstsheriff.com/uploadevidence/. Videos and photos can be provided anonymously through the portal.

Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

Crime Solvers Offering Cash Reward for Information in Shooting Case on Dorchester Circle: On March 31 at 5:39 p.m., officers responded to the area of Dorchester Circle at Springfish Place in Waldorf for the report of gunshots fired in the area. When officers arrived, everyone had fled the scene and officers did not locate a victim in the area. A few minutes later, officers were made aware of a possible shooting victim who was driven to the hospital. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division responded. A preliminary investigation showed the victim was a passenger in a van being driven by a relative. As they were driving on Dorchester Circle near Springfish Place, two unknown suspects wearing all black clothing and ski masks, fired numerous gunshots toward the van, striking the van and several homes. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital where it was determined he had a non-penetrating impact wound as a result of gunfire. No other injuries were reported. Detectives are pursuing leads. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Det. Worley at 301-609-6518. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspects in this case.

 The Calvert County Commission for Women seeks public input to identify issues women are facing in Calvert County and to pinpoint areas of focus for future events and programming.

“While some challenges are unfortunately persistent, we want to be sure we are taking on any new issues that are important to our community,” said Joan Winship, Commission for Women Chair. To assist the Commission for Women as they continue their important work in the community, please complete an online poll at www.calvertcountymd.gov/WomenMatter. This poll is voluntary, and submissions are anonymous. The poll is open to all residents, regardless of gender. It allows respondents to rank the issues they think are most important for the community and those that impact them most on a personal level. It is also expected to provide insights into the impact of past Commission for Women programs and events.

Polling will close on Saturday, May 13, 2023. The Commission for Women will publish the results at www.calvertcountymd.gov/WomenMatter and use the data to determine how resources will be expended in the future. Community members are encouraged to share the link with other residents.

The Calvert County Commission for Women is charged with improving opportunities for women and girls by promoting women’s education and employment while being a voice and advocate as well as identifying, studying and serving as a clearinghouse for local women’s issues, and giving recognition to outstanding women and girls. To learn more, visit www.Calvert-Women.org.

“Commission for Women is committed to serving the community in ways that make the most sense. Our all-volunteer commission is about solving problems and making an impact,” said Winship.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners presented proclamations for Fair Housing Month, Week of the Young Child, National Animal Care & Control Week, and National Public Health Week. They also presented a commendation to David Alexander to honor his retirement from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

During County Administrator time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Approved the Department of Economic Development’s Memorandum of Understanding with the Maryland Economic Development Corporation for AeroPark Land Site Analysis Services. Learn more about AeroPark at: stmaryscountymd.gov/aeropark
• Approved the Department of Emergency Services’ request to enter into an agreement with Dr. Tammy Colson-Dorsch for veterinary services at the St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resource Center.
• Approved the Department of Information Technology’s acceptance of the Broadband Grant Award in the amount of $27,000. Learn more at: stmaryscountymd.gov/laptop
• Approved the Department of Aging & Human Services’ application for the FY2024 Senior Rides Grant in the amount of $35,652.
• Approved the Department of Recreation & Parks’ acceptance of the Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Program award in the amount of $219,000 for the St. Clement’s Island Water Taxi project.
• Approved the Department of Public Works & Transportation’s option contracts with Fourth Exploration, LLC and Great Mills IV, LLC in the amount of $167,230.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC will not meet Tuesday, April 11. The CSMC will host their next regular business meeting on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings can be viewed live Tuesday mornings on SMCG Channel 95 or as a replay Friday at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are also available for on-demand viewing on the St. Mary's County Government YouTube Channel.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting applications from marinas for grants up to $2,500 for operations and maintenance of marine sewage pumpout stations. Applications are available online and will be  accepted through April 15, 2023. 

The Marine Sewage Pumpout Grant program assists marinas in offering reliable pumpout service to area boaters. Pumpout stations give boaters a proper method of disposing of their sewage and thus prevent it from entering Maryland’s waters. The department supports their installation and operation as part of the overall strategy of reducing nutrients in the Chesapeake Bay.

The program is funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with Clean Vessel Act and support from the Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund. Boaters pay into both funds through federal excise taxes on fishing equipment, motorboat and small engine fuels, and import duties and when they title a boat in Maryland and pay the state’s excise tax. 

Information and enrollment for the operations and maintenance grant program is available on the Department of Natural Resources website or by email to the Clean Vessel Act Program Administrator Celeste Anderson at celeste.anderson@maryland.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the CSMC meeting room in the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown to hear public input on the proposed St. Mary’s County Building Excise Tax Ordinance.

Copies of the proposed St. Mary’s County Building Excise Tax Ordinance are available online at: stmaryscountymd.gov/publichearings or from the St. Mary’s County Department of Finance.

Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the public hearing. Those wishing to address the Commissioners may participate in-person or provide their feedback via email, written correspondence, or prerecorded video submissions to:

• Email: csmc@stmaryscountymd.gov 
• Mail: PO Box 653 Leonardtown, Maryland 20650
• Video clip (3 minutes or less): publicmtgs@stmaryscountymd.gov   

All submissions must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. All submissions will be considered by the Commissioners at the Public Hearing and/or up to seven days following the Public Hearing.

Commissioners of St. Mary’s County Public Hearings are televised live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) TV Channel 95 and streamed live on the SMCG YouTube Channel.

(LA PLATA, MD) – Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred Sunday evening in Charles County.

The deceased is identified as Claude Boushey Jr., 30, of Welcome, Maryland. Boushey was the sole occupant of a 2015 Honda Accord involved in the crash. Boushey was transported by ambulance to University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, Maryland, where he was pronounced deceased.

The second vehicle involved in the crash was a 2013 Dodge Challenger. The driver is identified as Donta McKay, 42, of Capitol Heights, Maryland. McKay was transported by Maryland State Police helicopter to MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. for treatment of their injuries.

Shortly before 5:15 p.m. Sunday evening, troopers from the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to the report of a two-vehicle crash in the area of eastbound Route 255, east of Bibury Lane. The preliminary investigation indicates the Accord was traveling westbound on Hawthorne Road, east of Bibury Lane, when it entered into an authorized passing area in the eastbound lane in an attempt to pass another unidentified vehicle and crashed head on into the Challenger. After impact, both vehicles came to rest in the westbound lanes.

The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation. Personnel from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration provide assistance with detours and road closures.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation…

In partnership with the Maryland State Arts Council, Charles County Government announced on Saturday, April 1, that the winning public art project for the outdoor place at Elite Gymnastics and Recreation Center is our own Charles County resident, Donald Ely of Bryantown, Maryland. Ely’s winning proposal is Sunshine Pocket Park. 

Sunshine Pocket Park Incorporates the lyrics, "everybody's got a little light under the sun," from the Parliament song "Flashlight." This project creates an intimate place that encourages residents and visitors to share an experience and create new memories. There will be benches for relaxation, spaces to crawl through and climb, areas to explore, and photo opportunities.

Ely said, “It is an honor to be selected for a community project in the county where I live, a hop, skip and a jump away from Waldorf. I feel this project will be a success with the engagement of the community.”

Residents will be invited to help plant a safety hedge and paint a multi-colored sidewalk. Our local K-12 schools will be asked to paint sunshine pavers that will be hidden throughout the park. Motion is implied through the use of color and infused in the design of the landscape and structures.

The County will apply for the New Artwork Project Grant funds from the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC). The execution of the project is contingent upon the county receiving this grant. If awarded the grant, installation of the project will begin in summer 2023, with estimated completion in 2024.

To view the winning proposal, visit https://bit.ly/3M5EOXY. To learn more about the Maryland State Arts Council, visit www.MSAC.org.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released its 2021 Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) National Analysis, which shows that environmental releases of TRI chemicals from facilities across the nation covered by the program remained below pre-pandemic levels and releases in 2021 are 10% lower than 2012 releases, even with an 8% increase from 2020 to 2021.

In 2021, facilities also managed more than 89% of their TRI chemical waste through preferred practices such as recycling, energy recovery and treatment, while reporting that they released 11% of their TRI chemical waste into the environment.

“This TRI report clearly shows progress in reducing pollution in the Mid-Atlantic Region,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “This data not only provides a clear picture of how toxic materials are being handled in our region, but more importantly it displays the transparency our agency wants to have with our communities.”

The report also reveals that the EPA Mid-Atlantic Region, which includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and 7 Tribal Nations, has seen long-term decline in production related waste. In 2021, facilities in the EPA Mid-Atlantic Region reported managing 4.6 billion pounds of production related waste and releasing 120.4 million pounds of TRI chemicals into the environment. From 2012 to 2021, releases decreased by 39.7% from 200 million pounds and the recycling rates have tripled from 1.3 billion pounds to 3.9 billion pounds.

In 2021, the releases in the Mid-Atlantic Region were primarily driven by the electric utility sector (24.9%) and primary metal manufacturing sector (15.8%). From 2020 to 2021, there was in an increase in 21% of facilities that implemented new source reduction activities from 119 to 149, primarily in process and equipment modification and operating practices and training. Among the sectors with the highest source reduction reporting rates were chemicals and fabricated metals.

The 2021 TRI National Analysis summarizes TRI chemical waste management activities, including releases, that occurred during calendar year 2021. More than 21,000 facilities submitted reports on 531 chemicals requiring TRI reporting that they released into the environment or otherwise managed as waste. EPA, states and tribes receive TRI data from facilities in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, electric utilities and commercial hazardous waste management.

The 2021 Analysis features updated visualizations and analytical tools to make data more useful and accessible to communities, including the option to view data by region and watershed. EPA has also updated demographic information in the “Where You Live” mapping tool and in the Chemical Profiles section. Readers can view facility locations with overlayed demographic data to identify potential exposure to TRI chemical releases in vulnerable communities. Community groups, policymakers, and other stakeholders can use this data, along with other environmental data, to better understand which communities may experience a disproportionate pollution burden and act at the local level.

In addition, this year the TRI National Analysis Sector Profiles highlights the plastic products manufacturing sector alongside the standard profiles for electric utilities, chemical manufacturing, and metal mining. This allows readers to learn about releases and waste management of TRI chemicals, as well as greenhouse gas emissions, from facilities in these sectors.

EPA is holding a public webinar on March 28, 2023, to give an overview of the 2021 TRI National Analysis. Register for the webinar.

To view local data and analysis, 2021 TRI National Analysis

Notable Trends in 2021

The National Analysis shows a 24% increase in the number of new pollution reduction activities facilities initiated from 2020 to 2021—a strong rebound after the decrease seen from 2019 to 2020. These activities include facilities implementing strategies like replacing TRI chemicals with less hazardous alternatives or reducing the amount of scrap they produce. Through both existing programs and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA offers grant opportunities to state and tribal technical assistance providers to help prevent pollution.

Industry professionals can also look at TRI reporting on pollution prevention to learn about best practices implemented at facilities.

Ethylene Oxide Reporting

TRI reporting also shows a 45% decrease in ethylene oxide releases from 2012 to 2021, driven by decreased air emissions. Although there was a 15% increase in releases compared to 2020, quantities of ethylene oxide released in 2021 are lower than pre-pandemic quantities from 2019. EPA also expanded reporting requirements for ethylene oxide and other chemicals to include additional facilities. Reporting from these facilities will appear for the first time in next year’s National Analyses.

PFAS Reporting

For the second time, the TRI National Analysis includes reporting on perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) following the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. For Reporting Year 2021, 176 PFAS were reportable to TRI. Facilities reported managing 1.3 million pounds of these chemicals as waste. This is an increase from the 800,000 pounds in 2020 and is largely due to reporting on one PFAS, perfluorooctyl iodide, which EPA began requiring facilities to report in 2021. Most of the facilities that manage PFAS operate in the chemical manufacturing and hazardous waste management sectors. The hazardous waste management sector accounted for roughly 80% of the 108,334 pounds of PFAS released into the environment, primarily to regulated landfills.

Last December, EPA proposed a rule that would improve reporting on PFAS to TRI by eliminating an exemption that allows facilities to avoid reporting information on PFAS when those chemicals are used in small, or de minimis, concentrations. Because PFAS are used at low concentrations in many products, this rule would ensure covered industry sectors and federal facilities that make or use TRI-listed PFAS will no longer be able to rely on the de minimis exemption to avoid disclosing their PFAS releases and other waste management quantities for these chemicals.

To access the 2021 TRI Factsheets by region or state:

Fact sheets:

• 2021 TRI Factsheet for Region 3 | TRI Explorer | US EPA
• 2021 TRI Factsheet for Delaware | TRI Explorer | US EPA
• 2021 TRI Factsheet for District Of Columbia | TRI Explorer | US EPA
• 2021 TRI Factsheet for Maryland | TRI Explorer | US EPA
• 2021 TRI Factsheet for Pennsylvania | TRI Explorer | US EPA
• 2021 TRI Factsheet for Virginia | TRI Explorer | US EPA
• 2021 TRI Factsheet for West Virginia | TRI Explorer | US EPA

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at General Smallwood Middle School: On March 29 at 1:30 p.m., a student at General Smallwood Middle School struck another student in the head multiple times as the student was walking down a hallway. Later that day, the student entered a classroom and struck the same student multiple times, causing an injury to the student. Both assaults were reported at the same time to the school resource officer (SRO) who has initiated an investigation. The SRO has contacted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges and the student could face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Cpl. Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0479.  

The Calvert County Department of Economic Development is seeking feedback to better understand the needs of local businesses. Responses will help shape future economic development strategies and objectives so they can best serve local businesses.

The survey is available at www.ChooseCalvert.com/BusinessSurvey and takes approximately five minutes to complete. Economic Development will use survey responses to develop programs, policies and services for businesses, and to enhance communication and collaboration to ensure businesses have access to the resources they need to thrive.

"Businesses are the lifeblood of our community and we want to do everything we can to support them," said Economic Development Director Julie Oberg. "We appreciate their contributions in building a vibrant community and this survey will provide us with valuable insights so we can deliver services that truly meet business needs."

Survey responses are confidential and anonymous; however, respondents can share their contact information if they would like to be contacted by a staff member.

The Calvert County Department of Economic Development monitors economic trends and works to execute business programs that complement Calvert County. The department’s goal is to attract and retain strong, healthy and dynamic companies of all sizes and industries. For more information, visit www.ChooseCalvert.com.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

School Resource Officer Investigating Altercation at General Smallwood Middle School: On March 29 at 1:30 p.m., a student at General Smallwood Middle School entered a school bathroom and was confronted by three students who struck and kicked the student. The student sustained minor injuries and was treated by the school nurse. The school resource officer was notified and initiated an investigation. Two of the students will be charged with assault via a juvenile offense report. In accordance with Maryland law, the third student will not be charged due to their age. All three students face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. The Charles County Department of Juvenile Services will be notified as a matter of recordation and to offer services as needed. Anyone with information about this case may contact PFC Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0580.