(SYKESVILLE, MD) – The Maryland State Police, in partnership with other State of Maryland agencies, are hosting a Career Expo, set to take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at the Maryland State Police Training Academy, located at 6852 4^th Street in Sykesville, Maryland.

The goal of this free event is to introduce those who are interested in a career with the State of Maryland to potential job opportunities.  Numerous state agencies will be on-site to promote careers for various sworn law enforcement positions and civilian professional opportunities. State agencies to be in attendance include the Maryland State Police; the Office of the State Fire Marshal; the Maryland Department of Budget and Management; Maryland Natural Resources Police; and the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. Those interested in a potential career with any of these state agencies will be able to receive a tour of the training academies, experience hands-on activities like simulators and dispatching scenarios as well as gather employment information directly from representatives in law enforcement, public safety and government.  

Interested individuals do not need to make a formal appointment to attend the Career Expo. Parking on-site is free and can be located on the campus site map. While there is no formal dress code, those who attend are recommended to wear business casual attire. Providing a resumé on the day of the Career Expo is not necessary, as the State of Maryland uses an online portal to track applications.

Weapons are not allowed on the campus, unless you are in a law enforcement uniform. For more information regarding the Career Expo, please visit: https://mdsp.maryland.gov/Documents/Career%20Expo%20(1).docx

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers license-free fishing days for all state residents and visitors on Saturday, June 3, Saturday, June 10, and Tuesday, July 4. 

Maryland’s annual license-free fishing days offer anglers a unique opportunity to explore the state’s diverse fishing without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or registration. On these days, any individual may catch and possess finfish for recreational purposes in any tidal and nontidal waters of Maryland. All anglers must follow current size and catch limits found in the department’s fishing and crabbing guide. 

The department also has dozens of other resources to help new or experienced anglers, including angler access maps and fish identification charts. In addition, anglers of any level are encouraged to sign up for the weekly Maryland Fishing Report, which provides up-to-date fishing information. 

Aside from these free fishing days and certain license-free areas, anyone 16 or older fishing in Maryland must possess a license, which can be obtained or renewed online or on the department’s mobile app. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Emergency Services urges community members to be prepared for the next Atlantic hurricane season, which starts on June 1, 2023, and goes through November 30, 2023.

Forecasters at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, predict near-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season predicts a 40% chance of a near-normal season with a range of 12 to 17 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher).

Disasters will not wait; neither should you. Visit stmaryscountymd.gov/prepare to learn more about how you can be prepared.

Patrol Officers Apprehend Burglary Suspect: On May 29 at 3:16 a.m., officers responded to a hotel in the 9300 block of Crain Highway in Bel Alton for the report of a burglary in progress. A preliminary investigation revealed the suspect was observed entering a room through an unsecured window. Additional evidence showed he tried to enter several other rooms as well. Officers established a perimeter and observed the suspect leaving the back of the building. The suspect was apprehended without incident. Devon Everett Dyson, 28, of Newburg, was arrested and charged with burglary, malicious destruction of property, and other related charges. A computer check revealed Dyson also had two active warrants. On May 30, a judge ordered Dyson to be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. PFC Sady is investigating.

Charles County Crime Solvers Offering Cash Reward in Assault Cases: On May 28 at 7:13 p.m., unknown suspects drove by a woman in the area of Huntington Circle in Waldorf and shot her with a suspected airsoft or paintball gun, striking her in the arms and legs. The same suspects are believed to be responsible for a similar assault minutes later. The vehicle is described as a four-door, dark-colored passenger car. Officers are pursuing leads. Anyone with information is asked to call Officer Otey at 301-609-3282 ext. 0771. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app, which can be found in the Android Store and Apple store by searching P3tips. A cash reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for the tip that leads to the arrest of the suspects.   

The Calvert County Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management will conduct a full-cycle test of the alert and notification sirens throughout Calvert, St. Mary’s and Dorchester counties Monday, June 5, 2023, at noon.

The full-cycle test includes a three-minute activation of all sirens within the 10-mile area around Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. Citizens are encouraged to be aware of the testing and relay this information to friends, family and neighbors.

The testing is conducted to check siren operation and increase public awareness of the alert and notification siren system. If the sirens sound at any other time outside of scheduled testing, residents should tune to one of the listed local radio stations for information and instructions.

Emergency Alert System stations include:

·         WKIK FM 102.9 MHz - California

·         WPRS FM 104.1 MHz - La Plata

·         WTOP FM 103.5 MHz - Frederick and Washington, D.C.

·         WMDM FM 97.7 MHz - Lexington Park

·         WPTX AM 1690 kHz - Lexington Park

·         WSMD FM 98.3 MHz - Mechanicsville

·         WRAR FM 105.5 MHz - Tappahannock

·         WNNT FM 107.5 MHz - Warsaw

·         WCEI FM 96.7 MHz - Easton

·         WKHZ AM 1460 kHz – Easton

·         WGOP AM 540 kHz - Pocomoke

·         WCEM FM 106.3 MHz - Cambridge

·         WCEM AM 1240 kHz – Cambridge

Visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/AlertNotificationSystem to learn more about the Calvert County siren alert system and to find other emergency planning and mitigation information from the Department of Public Safety, Emergency Management Division.

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.

The Department of Public Works Utilities Division will enhance the water system’s reliability in the Cliffton on the Potomac neighborhood by installing two water main interconnections. Construction will start in June and include Overlook Circle to Channelview Drive and Sylvan Turn to Cliffton Drive in Newburg.

The contractor is scheduled to work Monday through Saturday, weather permitting, and construction is expected to last approximately eight months. There will be truck traffic as well as construction-related noise across the project site, while the more visible and impactful portion of the work will occur just south of the Channelview and Meadowview Drives intersection. When the new waterlines are connected to the existing system, specific residents will experience an anticipated one-time, 2–4 hour disruption of water service.  They will be notified 48 hours prior to service interruption.  

For questions or concerns, contact the Department of Public Works Project Manager, Cameron Neal, at 240-585-0536 or  NealC@CharlesCountyMD.gov. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711 or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding the naval air station are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place June 5 – 19, 2023 from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

Pilots at NAS Patuxent River will be conducting Field Carrier Landing Practices (FCLPs). FCLPs are simulated carrier landings conducted to prepare the pilot to land safely on an aircraft carrier.  The practices consist of series of touch-and-go maneuvers, called “bounces.” Airspeed, altitude and power are all precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach the ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our service members and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is one of the most difficult tasks in military aviation, a highly complex and perishable skill, and one that requires an intensive period of training before pilots deploy. Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations. 

As with all operations, NAS Patuxent River takes precautions to lessen the impact of testing activities on the community. For more information call 1-866-819-9028. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – There will be a full-cycle test of the alert and notification sirens throughout St. Mary’s, Calvert, and Dorchester counties on Monday, June 5, 2023, at noon.

This test includes a three-minute activation of all sirens within the 10-mile area around Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. All citizens should be aware of this scheduled testing and relay this information to friends, family, and neighbors.

The testing is conducted to check siren operation and increase public awareness of the alert and notification siren system. If the sirens sound at any other time, residents should tune in to one of the local radio stations for information and instructions.

Knowing what to do before, during, and after an emergency is a critical part of being prepared and may make all the difference, when seconds count.

To learn more about how you can be prepared and stay informed, please visit:

• stmaryscountymd.gov/em
• calvertcountymd.gov/101/Emergency-Management
• dorchestercountymd.com/emergency-management-division

The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for the month of June: 

Monday, June 19 (Juneteenth Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville will be closed.
• The Nanjemoy Community Center, senior centers, and all school-based community centers are closed.
• Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center will be open for recreational activities.

• All indoor and outdoor pools are closed.

Operating status for other County affiliated agencies:

• Charles County Parks and Tourism Facilities: www.CharlesCountyParks.com/about-us/operating-status
• Charles County Public Library: www.ccplonline.org

• Charles County Health Department: www.CharlesCountyHealth.org
• Charles County Public Schools: www.ccboe.com

For questions about County Government holiday closures, contact the Public Information Office at 301-885-2779 or PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) is pleased to announce that the Class of 2023 commencement ceremonies will be available for online viewing via live streaming through our school system website at http://www.smcps.org/graduation and on Channel 96.

Commencements are scheduled as follows:

• Wednesday, May 31, 2023: Great Mills High School, 10:00 a.m.

• Thursday, June 1, 2023: Chopticon High School, 10:00 a.m.

• Friday, June 2, 2023: Leonardtown High School, 10:00 a.m.

At the conclusion of each ceremony, SMCPS will post a video to the SMCPS YouTube Channel. The videos will be made available for free download once they are posted to the SMCPS YouTube channel.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – In an effort to advance equal access to technology for our residents, St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) is excited to announce plans to distribute 4,500 HP Chromebooks for free to local households with an income at or below the national poverty level. Households participating in any of the following programs automatically qualify:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
• Medicaid
• Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
• Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, including at U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Community Eligibility Provision schools
• Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year

Eligible households are limited to one device per qualifying address and must show proof of residency/home address and verification of income eligibility or participation in one of the above programs. 

 “Access to the internet and current technologies is becoming essential to our everyday lives,” said James Randy Guy, Commissioner President. “This initiative will help to bridge the digital divide by delivering valuable resources to those in our community who need them most.” 

Distribution will begin in June of 2023, with varied times and locations across St. Mary’s County, while supplies last.

Please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/fasttrac for the schedule of distribution dates, to pre-register, or for additional information. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required. Interested seniors may contact any of the St. Mary’s County Senior Activity Centers for more information.

“These distribution days will offer a wide range of services, to include tech support from the University of Maryland Extension Office, help enrolling in internet assistance programs, and more,” said Bob Kelly, Director of Information Technology at SMCG. 

This initiative is part of the Fast TRAC program and is funded by the Connected Devices Grant from the Maryland Office of Statewide Broadband. SMCG is working to Fast TRAC our citizens on the information highway through:

• Training – Provided by the University of Maryland Extension Office.
• Resources – 4,500 HP Chromebooks to be distributed in St. Mary’s County.
• Affordability – Assistance programs to help pay for internet service or technology needs.
• Connectivity – Assistance getting broadband connectivity to your home.

Special thanks to our partners: Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, St. Mary’s County Department of Aging and Human Services, St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks, St. Mary’s County Housing Authority, St. Mary’s County Libraries, St. Mary’s County NAACP 7025, St. Mary’s County Public Schools, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, St. Mary’s County Health Department, St. Mary’s County Department of Social Services, the Minority Outreach Coalition, and the Unified Committee for Afro-American Contributions.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 30, 2023) - The Environmental Health Division of the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) tests the water quality of public beaches in St. Mary’s County from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Water quality advisories for beaches monitored by SMCHD can be found online at smchd.org/beach. Results are typically updated weekly on Fridays, pending sampling schedule and processing.

Swimming in natural waters is never risk free. Beachgoers should stay informed of water quality advisories and practice healthy beach habits for a safe and healthy beach experience this summer.

Information on conditions for beaches monitored across the state is available through the Maryland Healthy Beaches Program.

Phone scammers are now using artificial intelligence to steal money from victims with realistic-sounding facsimiles of loved ones. Scammers take existing recordings uploaded to social media and use AI to create a dynamic version of the voice that can read a script, and is then used to trick others out of cash. Seniors are often targeted, and when AI voice cloning is coupled with phone "spoofing", which falsifies the caller ID to appear as a familiar and trusted phone number, these calls become very convincing frauds. Dr. Katie Shilton is a professor of information science at the University of Maryland who says raising awareness is currently the best defense.
"People should know that this is a growing kind of crime and should be a little bit suspicious of frantic, threatening phone calls. One of the best countermeasures right now is to try to call the person back on their number. "
Phone spoofing can also be used to mimic the phone number of a government agency or reputable organization. The Federal Trade Commission reports that scammers may use an intermediary posing as an authority figure, such as a fake lawyer or police officer. Scammers will often ask victims to pay or send money in ways that make it difficult to recover, including wire transfers, buying gift cards and sending them the number and PIN, or cryptocurrency. If you encounter a scam, you can report it to the F-T-C at 'ReportFraud.ftc.gov.'
Shilton says the A-I that enables scammers was originally developed for beneficial purposes.
"AI-powered phone scams are powered by a form of AI development that was meant for pro-social purposes. Originally, the voice mimicking was for art or for film; a lot of this work has been about accessibility, right, to create voice assistants. Some of this work was to create voice assistants for business purposes."
The National Science Foundation has established an institute for Trustworthy A-I in Law and Society or TRAILS. The TRAILS Institute is a partnership between the University of Maryland, George Washington University and Morgan State University. It seeks to develop mechanisms to ensure A-I trustworthiness via both technological and public-policy responses. Dr. Shilton says one area of innovation for researchers is the concept of 'watermarking' A-I output.
"Watermarking is a really promising area of research for generative AI in general, including voice mimicking technologies. The idea that we should have some sort of way for people to tell when something has been generated by AI as opposed to naturalistic recordings of people or something like that."
Shilton says one approach the TRAILS institute is using to improve public trust in A-I is including stakeholder communities in the design process.
"We have participatory design projects with the teachers union in Baltimore, to talk about tools for the classroom. These are frequently designed outside of classrooms. Could we design them with teachers and parents, and teenagers? Or we have accessibility design projects with blind communities to do object recognition. "
More information on the TRAILS Institute is online at 'trails.umd.edu.'

The Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) Class of 2023 will be honored during outdoor graduation ceremonies set for May 30 through June 2 at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf.  

The Class of 2023 includes 2,013 graduates who earned a record-breaking number of scholarship offers totaling almost $200 million. The total is likely to increase as graduates report scholarship offers to their respective high schools.  

First in the CCPS high school graduation schedule is North Point High School at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 30.  

The schedule is as follows. All graduations will stream live at www.ccboe.com.  

• Tuesday, May 30: North Point High School, 9 a.m.  
• Tuesday, May 30: Henry E. Lackey High School, 1 p.m.  
• Wednesday, May 31: St. Charles High School, 9 a.m.  
• Wednesday, May 31: Maurice J. McDonough High School, 1 p.m.  
• Thursday, June 1: Westlake High School, 9 a.m.  
• Thursday, June 1: La Plata High School, 1 p.m.  
• Friday, June 2: Thomas Stone High School, 9 a.m.  

Valedictorians and salutatorians for the Class of 2023 were announced this week and represent the top academic achievers among graduates at each school. These positions are determined by student GPAs.  

Leading the Henry E. Lackey High School graduating Class of 2023 is Raymond Guzzone as valedictorian and Kaylee Alvey as salutatorian. Guzzone will attend the University of Maryland, College Park, in the fall and plans to study mechanical engineering. Alvey plans to study computer engineering at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.  

La Plata High School Class of 2023 leaders include valedictorian Devon Bragunier and salutatorian Brady Keech. Bragunier plans to study chemical engineering and material science at the University of Maryland, College Park. Keech plans to study computer science and will attend the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) in the fall. He plans to finish his degree at the University of Maryland, College Park.  

The Maurice J. McDonough High School Class of 2023 is led by valedictorian William Edwards and salutatorian Jean Hughes. Edwards plans to study chemical engineering and will attend the University of Maryland, College Park. Hughes plans to major in cybersecurity and will attend Rochester Institute of Technology.  

Valedictorian for the Class of 2023 from North Point High School is Julianne Tinana and class salutatorian is Amira Abujuma. Tinana will study finance and economics at the University of Maryland, College Park. Abujuma also heads to the University of Maryland, College Park, in the fall and plans to major in aerospace engineering with a minor in science, technology, ethics and policy.    

St. Charles High School senior Maya Dixon leads the Class of 2023 as valedictorian. Monet Fisette is the class salutatorian. Dixon will attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute to study physics. Fisette plans to study Biology with a pre-medicine track and will attend the University of Notre Dame in the fall.  

Valedictorian for the Class of 2023 at Thomas Stone High School is Olivia Warren and class salutatorian is Jonathan Rand-Crawford. Warren will attend the College of William and Mary in the fall and plans to study computational applied mathematics and statistics on a biology track. Rand-Crawford heads to St. Mary’s College of Maryland in the fall and plants to study Biology with a possible pre-medicine focus.    

The graduating class from Westlake is led by valedictorian Nina Dizon and salutatorian Jolie Prasad. Future plans for Dizon were not available as of May 26. Prasad will attend James Madison University in the fall and plans to major in performing arts with a focus in music.  

2023 graduation numbers by school (scholarship totals may increase as offers are received).  

Henry E. Lackey High School  

Total graduates: 224  

Scholarship offers: $24,924,946  

La Plata High School  

Total graduates: 285  

Scholarship offers: $22,604,388  

Maurice J. McDonough High School  

Total graduates: 234  

Scholarship offers: $20,652,943  

North Point High School  

Total graduates: 425  

Scholarship offers: $61,764,398  

St. Charles High School  

Total graduates: 328  

Scholarship offers: $28,054,035  

Thomas Stone High School  

Total graduates: 251  

Scholarship offers: $24,929,718  

Westlake High School  

Total graduates: 266  

Scholarship offers: $12,687,716  

Total Class of 2023 graduates: 2,013  

Total scholarship offers: $195,618,144  

Patrol Officers Recover Stolen KIA Vehicle: On May 24 at 9:25 a.m., officers responded to the 6000 block of New Forest Court in Waldorf for the report of a suspicious person and vehicle. When officers arrived, they located a juvenile near a KIA SUV. A computer check revealed the KIA had been reported stolen from Washington, D.C. The juvenile was also in possession of items stolen from the car. The juvenile was charged with theft and is being held by the Department of Juvenile Services. Officer Hopp is investigating.

Suspect in Shooting Case on Leland Place Identified and Arrested: On May 24 at 4:03 p.m., officers responded to the 11400 block of Leland Place in Waldorf for the report of the sound of gunshots. When officers arrived, they located a juvenile male who reported someone shot at him; however, he was not struck by gunfire. Investigators developed leads and identified a 15-year-old juvenile as a suspect in this case. On May 26, the suspect was arrested and charged as an adult with attempted murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and other related charges. He is currently being held at the Charles County Detention Center. The shooting was not random. Detective Pickeral and Officer Kunz are investigating.

The Calvert County Office on Aging advises citizens the North Beach Senior Center, located at 9010 Chesapeake Ave., North Beach, will be temporarily closed from Tuesday, May 30 through Friday, June 2, 2023, for repairs and maintenance to the building. The center will reopen with normal hours of operation on Monday, June 5.

While the center is closed, Meals on Wheels will still be delivered to recipients. For more information visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyOfficeonAging  or www.calvertcountymd.gov/Aging. 

 Calvert County Meals on Wheels is looking for volunteer drivers, route coordinators and board members. If you are interested in serving or have any questions, please contact 410-535-4606 or 301-855-1170.

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.

Charles County is pleased to announce that the 2022 Annual Report and Year in Review video are available online for public viewing. The Annual Report and Year in Review video offers a comprehensive look back at 2022 and is organized by departments showcasing the county’s accomplishments and key milestones.

Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. said, "The 2022 annual report is a snapshot into what steps the Board of Commissioners have taken to meet our goals and objectives.  I am proud of what the Board has been able to accomplish for our Charles County residents."

The Annual Report and video cover areas of education, health, public safety, and quality of life that were achieved in 2022, using local area photos and charts.

Visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/AnnualReport, to view or download a Portable Document Format (PDF) version of the annual report or to view the 2022 Year in Review video. Adobe Reader is required to view PDF files.

To request a copy of the report, email PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov or 301-885-2779. DVD copies may be requested here. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced over $1 million in grant funding to help protect public health in coastal and Great Lakes beach communities in the Mid-Atlantic Region. The funding is being awarded to Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia to assist with water quality monitoring and public notification programs for local beaches.

“So many of us have a rich tradition of spending our summers splashing, swimming, and playing at our favorite beach, which is why it’s so important for EPA to help our local partners protect the water at coastal and Great Lakes beaches,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “These grants help Tribes, states, and territories fund programs to test water quality at beaches to ensure it’s clean for swimming and boating.”

Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, eligible states, territories, and tribes use the grant funds to monitor their beaches for bacteria, maintain and operate a public notification system to alert beachgoers, provide technical assistance to communities to assess pollution sources at specific beaches, and report annually to EPA on the results of monitoring and notification actions.

“With summer right around the corner, tens of millions of Americans are making plans to travel to our beautiful beaches in Delaware and around the country,” said Senator Carper (DE), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Fortunately, EPA is providing states and communities with the tools to ensure the safety of the water at our nation’s beaches, which are an integral part of our tourism economy and important ecosystems for wildlife and migratory birds.”

Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million nationwide in BEACH Act grants to test beach waters for indicators of illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the public health of beachgoers across the country.

Contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements, EPA’s 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to as follows: Delaware - $223,000; Maryland - $283,000; Pennsylvania - $235,000; and Virginia $291,000.

More information on BEACH Act grants.

Check the relevant Tribal, state, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.

On Wednesday, May 24, the Board of County Commissioners announced the appointments of nine members and three alternates to the Charter Board. The Charter Board is tasked with drafting a charter for Charles County to change the present form of government from code home rule to charter government. The Board’s appointed members are:

• Cheryl Botts (District 1)
• Sarah Hammett (District 1)
• Marjorie Chiles (District 2)
• Mary Stokely (District 2)
• Ramonda Davis (District 3)
• Christopher Harrington (District 3)
• Eileen Lynch-Britt (District 4)
• Gregory Waring (District 4)
• Dottery Butler-Washington (At-Large member)
• William Smith (alternate member)
• Michael White (alternate member)
• James Crawford (alternate member)

The Charter Board will meet at least monthly beginning June 1, 2023, and the draft charter will be presented to the County Commissioners by June 1, 2024. The proposed charter will define the duties, powers, rules, procedures, and structure of local county government and the rights of its citizens. The proposed charter is being planned on a timeline that would place it on the ballot for approval by Charles County voters during the 2024 regular election. If a majority of the votes cast are in favor of its adoption, the form of government for Charles County will change from code home rule to charter on the date specified in the charter. 

Approval Items

Commissioners also approved:

• A budget transfer request of $62,000 to pay for the renewal of Zencity, an online community engagement platform that will be used to share essential project information, conduct surveys, and gather resident input on community priorities.
• A budget transfer request of $418,500 to pay for increased electricity costs for water and sewer operations.
• Support for the use of up to $60,000 in contingency funds to administer the Healthy Families Southern Maryland program due to a potential gap in grant-funded services. This service gap may occur because of a change in the way that the state grant is being administered this year.
• A memorandum of understanding between Charles County Commissioners, the Charles County Sheriff, and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 24.
• The proposed amendment to the Commissioner Rules and Procedures.

Board and Commission Appointments:

• Commissioner Collins and Commissioner Stewart to the Task Force to Study School Bus Operator contracts and Wages.
• Reappoint Claude Humbert to the Board of Appeals.
• Reappoint Benjamin Watkins to the Board of Appeals.

Proclamations

Commissioners issued the following proclamations:

• National Public Works Week – May 21- 27, 2023
• Pride Month and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Month – June 2023
• Women’s Veterans Day – June 12, 2023
• Juneteenth Day – June 19, 2023

Viewing option of the meeting and the Commissioner Listening Session: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: June 13, 2023

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

May 25, 2023

Two suspects were arrested and charged on Wednesday by St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office detectives in a homicide investigation in Mechanicsville.

On Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 5:28 am, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at an apartment at the 29000 block of Three Notch Road in Mechanicsville for the report of a male suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Patrol officers arrived and located the victim, Raymond Franklin Woods Jr., age 54 of Mechanicsville, deceased on a couch.

Detectives with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division continued the investigation, along with the Crime Lab Unit and a forensic investigator from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The gunshot wound was determined to be a homicide.

As a result of the investigation, Marvin Orlando Johnson, age 38 of Mechanicsville, was charged with First-Degree Murder, Second-Degree Murder, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence, First-Degree Assault and Second-Degree Assault.

Additionally, Marlee Lynn Stokes, age 37 of Charlotte Hall, was charged with First-Degree Murder: Accessory After the Fact and Second-Degree Murder: Accessory After the Fact.

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

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to call Detective Andrew Burgess at 301-475-4200, ext. 8041 or email andrew.burgess@stmaryscountymd.gov.

(PIKESVILLE, Md.) — Maryland State Police will bolster enforcement efforts over the Memorial Day weekend to prevent dangerous driving behaviors and save lives as more motorists are expected to travel this holiday.

State troopers from 23 barracks, including members of the State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort Team, known as the SPIDRE team, will be focusing enforcement efforts on impaired driving, aggressive driving, speeding, distracted driving and other violations that contribute to highway tragedies, especially during the holiday weekend. Additional troopers will be working overtime assignments funded by highway safety grants from the Maryland Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office.

“As we prepare to kick off the summer travel season this Memorial Day weekend, we want motorists to arrive at their destinations safely,” Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr. said. “We always ask that if you choose to drink, then please arrange for a designated driver or a safe ride home.”

Among the planned initiatives:

• The Bel Air Barrack will focus efforts on Routes 1, 24, 40, and 155 in Harford County.

• The Salisbury Barrack will conduct enforcement along Routes 50 and 13 corridors in Wicomico County.

• The Annapolis Barrack will focus on DUI enforcement along Routes 50 and Interstate 97 in Anne Arundel County.

• The Forestville Barrack will focus its efforts on Route 5 in Prince George’s County

• The Rockville Barrack will concentrate its efforts on Interstate 495 in Montgomery County.

• Golden Ring Barrack will concentrate on crash hotspots around Interstate 695 within Baltimore County.

• Centreville Barrack will conduct operations on Routes 301, 20 and 50.

• The Waterloo Barrack will work crash and DUI reduction efforts in and around high-crash areas within Howard County.
•  

• The Hagerstown Barrack will conduct saturation patrols on Interstates 70 and 81 in Washington County.

Maryland averaged 152 fatalities and 2,003 injuries due to impaired driving crashes annually between 2017 and 2021, according to the Maryland Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office. Many of these deaths and injuries were preventable.

If you are attending a Memorial Day gathering:

• Designate a sober driver in advance and give that person your car keys.

• If you’re planning on driving, avoid drinking.

• Consider using public transportation. Call a taxi or use a ride-share service if you don’t have a sober driver.

• Don’t let a friend drive if you think they are impaired.

• If you see someone who you believe is driving impaired, then call the police.

• Always buckle up.

• Don’t drive distracted, text or use a cellphone that is not hands-free.

If you are hosting a Memorial Day gathering:

• Remember, you can be held liable if someone you served alcohol to ends up in an impaired-driving crash.

• Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages

• Ensure sober drivers or alternative modes of transportation are set up in advance for guests who are planning to drink alcoholic beverages.

• Have contact information for local taxi companies readily available.

• Take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving impaired.

NEW CARROLLTON (May 25, 2023) — The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has helped more than 11,000 homeowners behind on housing-related payments, including 6,000 who were facing foreclosure, stay in their homes since the Homeowner Assistance Fund program launched in March 2021. The Department has expanded the program to add an additional option for mortgage servicers to provide eligible homeowners with relief as interest rates have risen and affected the affordability of some loan modifications. The program now is able to fund up to six months of forward payments for eligible applicants, and is estimated to help more than 1,000 additional Marylanders. 

“The department has quickly adapted the Homeowner Assistance Program to extend its reach given new housing market conditions that didn’t exist when the program started,” said Jake Day, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. “This assistance supports long-term, sustainable solutions for homeowners who are still dealing with the aftereffects of pandemic-related hardships.”

The Homeowner Assistance Fund offers legal assistance, loan modifications with payment of delinquent mortgages, grants to avoid displacement due to property taxes, association and water and sewer fees, and other housing related costs. So far, the program has provided more than $125 million to eligible homeowners, with an average of $17,100 of assistance for each household.

One such homeowner, a Bowie resident, was days away from foreclosure and shared their story on working with the Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund. 

“If it were not for DHCD and its Homeowners Assistance Fund team, I would have lost my home to foreclosure,” the resident wrote to the Department. “I was in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy and fell behind on mortgage payments due to COVID-related income reduction. I had consultations with two lawyers and they both informed me that time was not on my side and to try to sell my house as quickly as possible so I could get some equity out of it, but they were even pessimistic about that. I'm a single parent and was very scared of how losing my home would impact my 12-year-old daughter. My home was about 7 days away from a foreclosure sale when HAF stepped in and processed my application. The foreclosure sale was canceled two days later and my loan was reinstated. HAF also paid for my water bill arrears! Shout out to HAF for having such amazing staff!”

No additional application is required to be considered for the new forward payment option, and the Department is also reviewing past applications to determine if those homeowners would be eligible for the forward payment option and reaching out to them to offer assistance. For more detailed information on eligibility and to apply for assistance, go to homeownerassistance.maryland.gov.

The HAF program was established by the American Rescue Plan Act enacted in 2021 to help homeowners experiencing financial hardship after January 21, 2020. The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Developm?ent was awarded a total of $248 million to administer through the program.

During the week of May 15 – May 21, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,916 calls for service throughout the community.

Damaged Property: 23-35463

On May 19, 2023, DFC Idol was conducting a patrol check of Northern High School located at 2950 Chaneyville Road in Owings, and upon arrival, observed toilet paper all over the front of the school, trees, and windows. Windows around the school were covered in syrup, baking flower and had newspaper stuck to them. There were multiple signs and shipping containers that had been spray-painted. On the stadium field, lacrosse goals were set on flag poles and bleacher benches were on top of the goal posts. No physical damage was apparent. The estimated value of damaged property is unknown at this time.

Damaged Property: 23-35647

On May 19, 2023, DFC Kwitowski responded to the 400 block of Round Up Road in Lusby, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised an unknown suspect (s) tampered with the victim’s air conditioning unit. The fence around the unit was partially dislodged and screws were observed on the ground nearby causing the fan to fall to the bottom of the A/C unit. The estimated value of damaged property is $8,700.00.

Property Destruction: 23-35907

On May 20, 2023, Deputy Daily responded to the 1500 block of Wilson Road in Huntingtown, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised sometime between 6 -6:30 p.m. on May 20th, an unknown suspect(s) broke five barn windows belonging to the victim. The estimated valued of damaged property is $2,500.00.
 

Theft: 23-34313

On May 15, 2023, Deputy Contic responded to 155 Holiday Drive in Solomons, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his 18ft black CAM Superline trailer had been stolen from the parking lot. The estimated value of stolen property is $4,945.00.

Theft: 23-34837

On May 16, 2023, DFC Grierson responded to Baia Costal Restaurant located at 8323 Bayside Road in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect described as a Hispanic male wearing a mask, backed a white Chevrolet work van up to the restaurant’s used cooking oil dumpster and stole used cooking oil. The estimated value of stolen property is $100.00.

Theft: 23-35397

On May 18, 2023, DFC Shoemaker responded to the 11200 block of Lakeview Drive in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his front and rear Maryland registration plates were stolen from his vehicle. The estimated value of stolen property is $250.00.

ARRESTS

On May 16, 2023, Dep. R. Jones responded to the area of the Thomas Johnson Bridge in Solomons, for a traffic complaint. A traffic stop was initiated along Rt. 4 just south of St. Leonard Road in St. Leonard. Upon making contact with the driver, Keenan Anthony Berry, 27, and passenger, Shanika Lanae Green, 21 both of Lexington Park, a strong odor of marijuana was emitting from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed Berry’s driver’s license was revoked. A vehicle search yielded 12.2 grams of a white powdery/rock mix, (suspected Crack Cocaine), a digital scale covered with a white powdery residue, two resealable bags containing marijuana, 3 cellular phones and $697.00 in US currency. Both Berry and Green were transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where they were charged CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

On May 17, 2023, DFC Shoemaker responded to the McDonald’s located at 515 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival, DFC Shoemaker observed Marvin Wayne Thomas, 56 of Prince Frederick, yelling aloud. Investigation revealed Thomas had been previously trespassed indefinitely from the establishment. Thomas was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.

On May 17, 2023, Deputy Claggett was dispatched to the Dollar Tree located at 545 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the reported trespassing. The complainant advised, Andrew Edward Hart, 63 of no fixed address, had been previously trespassed from the property indefinitely. Hart was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.

On May 19, 2023, DFC Aranda and Deputy Dawson responded to the CVS Pharmacy located at 10095 Ward Road in Dunkirk, for the report of a suspicious activity inside a vehicle. Upon making contact with occupants of the suspected vehicle, Deputy Dawson observed the floor boards to be littered with cut and torn Brillow Pad fibers. Dep. Dawson observed a torn-up copper Brillow pad fell from the vehicle. Investigation revealed one of the occupants who originally provided a false name, was wanted on an open warrant through St. Mary’s County. Francis Xavier Curtis, 25 of Chaptico, was placed into custody. A search of Curtis’s person revealed a black tie off containing two rocks of crack cocaine (approximately 1.3 grams). Curtis was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possess-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possess Paraphernalia and Fraud - Per Identification Avoid Prosecution.

On May 17, 2023, Deputy Novick, responded to 80 Sherry Lane in Prince Frederick, for the check welfare of a subject in the parking lot possibly using controlled dangerous substances. Upon arrival, Deputy Novick and Cpl. Shrawder made contact with an occupant, who initially provided a false name. Further investigation revealed the occupant, Stephen Matthew Greenwell Jr., 34 of Shady Side, had two open warrants through Anne Arundel County for Assault and Escape. Greenwell was placed into custody and began to resist arrest while failing to comply with deputies’ orders. Greenwell was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was served the open warrants and additionally charged with charged with False Statements to a Peace Officer and Resisting/Interfering with Arrest.

On May 16, 2023, DFC Aranda responded to the Walmart located at 10600 Town Center Blvd. in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a female entered the store and stole two robot vacuum machines and a coffee machine and left in a 2018 pink/purple Hyundai. DFC Aranda located a vehicle matching the description in Anne Arundel County. Investigation revealed the suspect, Brandi Marie Beckett, 40 of LaPlata, was operating the vehicle with stolen tags that she admitted stealing from a parked vehicle at the Dunkirk Walmart. Upon making contact with Beckett, DFC Aranda observed two wireless robot vacuums, a coffee maker, and a tent in the backseat in plain view consistent with the items the complainant initially reported stolen. With the assistance of an Anne Arundel County Police Officer, Beckett was placed into custody for the stolen registration plates. Further investigation revealed a glass pipe covered in a white powdery residue (crack pipe) was located inside the vehicle.  Beckett was apprehended and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. During processing, a search of Beckett’s person was conducted and an additional pipe containing white residue was located. Beckett was charged with Theft Less Than $100, Possession of Contraband in a Place of Confinement, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

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

Patrol Officer Recovers Loaded Firearm in Vehicle During Traffic Stop: On May 17 at 6:48 p.m., a patrol officer initiated a traffic stop in the 3200 block of Crain Highway in Waldorf for registration and insurance violations. Further investigation revealed a loaded handgun inside the vehicle. The driver, Jordan Malik Barnes, 27, of Forestville, was arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm due to previous convictions, transporting a loaded firearm in a vehicle, and other related charges. On May 18,  a judge ordered Barnes could be released from the Charles County Detention Center after paying 10 percent of a $2,000 bond. Officer Gordon is investigating.

Student Found to be in Possession of Cannabis at Middle School: On May 23 at 1:30 p.m., a school administrator at Benjamin Stoddert Middle School reported to a school resource officer that a student was in possession of suspected drugs. The school resource officer recovered a bag of suspected cannabis. The student was charged on a civil citation and also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Parents are urged to talk with their children about the dangers of inhaling or ingesting dangerous substances. Anyone with information is asked to call Officer Watkins at 301-609-3282 ext. 0721.

Elementary School Student Observed Smoking a Vaping Device in Gymnasium during Class: On May 24 at 11 a.m., a student at Indian Head Elementary School was observing smoking a vaping device in the gymnasium during class. The device was recovered and the student’s parents were contacted. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation and will notify the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services. Parents are urged to talk with their children about the dangers of inhaling or ingesting dangerous substances. Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0479.

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at Elementary School: On May 23 at 12 p.m., a school resource officer was notified about an assault that occurred at Gale Bailey Elementary School during which two students struck another student several times. The students stopped fighting as an administrator approached and the student was seen by a school nurse. In accordance with Maryland law, the students cannot be charged due to their age; however, the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services was notified. The students also face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Cpl. Cooke at 301-609-3282 ext. 0479.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – May 24, 2023  – The Calvert County Family Network is seeking interested volunteers for the Open Table initiative. Open Table is a proven model that leverages relationships to transform communities. Through relationships and accessing social support networks, a group of volunteers can empower an individual or family in need to implement their own life plans and goals to develop the ideal life they envision for themselves and their children.

Calvert County is the first county in Maryland to launch Open Table, and this unique volunteer experience allows you to go beyond giving by investing in others and our community. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to attend a virtual information session. To register for an informational session visit https://calvertcountymd.gov/3630/Open-Table-Volunteers-Needed. Multiple session dates are offered to accommodate community members. Individual sessions are available if interested volunteers are unable to attend any of the dates and times listed.

 For more information on becoming a volunteer, or to schedule an individual session,  contact Calvert County’s Open Table Coordinator, Jessica Roberson, at jessica.roberson@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-1600, ext. 8809 or visit www.calvertcountymd.gov/OpenTable.

The Calvert County Family Network is a Local Management Board (LMB). LMBs partner with local leaders, public and private agencies and businesses to build communities where all children, youth and families can thrive. For more information visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CCFN.

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) began with a joint meeting with St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.

They then held their regular business meeting, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners then presented proclamations for Stoke Smart, National Emergency Services Week, and National Public Works Week.

Then public hearings were held for the Proposed Road Naming and Addressing Manual and the Sheriff’s Office Retirement Plan proposed 17^th Amendment. The public comment period will be open on these hearings until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.

The Commissioners then met as the Board of Health.

Following the Board of Health meeting the Commissioners set rates and approved the FY2024 Operating and Capital Budget.

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

• Approved the Department of Human Resources budget amendment to increase funding to the LOSAP trust and increase benefit payments.
• Approved the Department of Recreation & Parks’ application to the Maryland Bikeways Program Funding and the purchase of 46961 Bradley Blvd, Lexington Park from Willows Run, LLP.

Please note that the CSMC will not meet next Tuesday, May 30, 2023. The next regular CSMC business meeting will be on Tuesday, June 6, 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 St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be closed on Monday, May 29, 2023 for the Memorial Day holiday. This includes the main office in Leonardtown and all satellite offices. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.  

Learn more about SMCHD programs, services, and hours of operations at smchd.org. 

With Memorial Day weekend right around the corner, families across Maryland will venture outside – either to the beach or the mountains – or maybe just to their backyard.

Increased outdoor activities also result in an increase of outdoor fire risks; therefore State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci is providing a few common-sense tips that will help Marylanders enjoy a safe holiday weekend and summer season.  “These tips will help reduce the chance of a tragedy that could ruin an otherwise fun-filled time of the year,” stated State Fire Marshal Brian S. Gerai

Outdoor Cooking Safety Tips for Gas Grills:

• Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders should always be transported in the upright position on the floor of the vehicle with all windows open. Never transport cylinders in the trunk of a car.  Remove the cylinder from the vehicle as soon as possible.
• Ensure all connections are tight. Check all connections with soapy water. The appearance of bubbles indicates leaks – retighten leaking connections.
• Make sure grease is not allowed to drip onto the hose or gas cylinder.
• Store the cylinder (including those attached to barbecues), outdoors in a shaded, cool area out of direct sunlight.
• Read thoroughly and follow manufacturer’s instructions for gas grill use. Save the instructions!

Outdoor Cooking Safety Tips for Charcoal Grills:

• Use only a small amount of charcoal starter fuel. A little goes a long way! Consider using charcoal that does not require starter fuel for ignition.
• Once a fire has been started, never add starter fuel! Fire can easily follow the stream of fluid back to the container and possibly cause an explosion.
• Use great caution in disposing of ashes. Ashes may contain live coals that can start a fire if not disposed of properly.  The safest method is to wet the ashes thoroughly with water before emptying the barbecue.

With any outdoor cooking equipment, never be tempted to use them inside – not even in a garage or on a porch or balcony says the State Fire Marshal.  “Charcoal grills produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless, and poisonous gas which even in small quantities can cause injury or death. LPG cylinders that develop a leak indoors can be the cause of an explosion with devastating results.” said Geraci 

 With warmer weather, public fireworks displays attract thousands of spectators every year.  These licensed and inspected events afford Marylanders a safe and pleasurable way to celebrate.  Often times however, persons are tempted to use illegal fireworks or legal fireworks.  The following tips can help Marylanders enjoy fireworks – safely!

• Plan to attend one of hundreds of licensed and inspected public fireworks displays held annually across Maryland.
• Remember, the only fireworks allowed for personal use in Maryland are snap n’ pops, party poppers, black snakes, gold-labeled sparklers, and ground-based sparkling devices.
• If allowing children to participate, they should only use legal fireworks with close adult supervision. Make sure to keep sparklers away from the body and loose fitting clothing.  Read and follow the instructions on the sparkler package!  Sparklers burn at approximately 1,200°F.
• Never mix alcohol and fireworks. The combination could be deadly.
• Fully extinguish remains of fireworks in water before disposal.
• All fireworks are banned in Baltimore City, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County. The town of Ocean City along with Howard County and Harford County has specifically prohibited Ground-based Sparkling Devices.

By following these simple safety tips, Marylanders can avoid injury and enjoy a wonderful holiday and summer season.  

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) are pleased to invite the entire community to attend the 2023 Flag Day Celebration on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at 6 p.m. on the Governmental Center lawn in Leonardtown.

The event will feature:

·         A procession by various color guards and veteran groups from around St. Mary’s County.

·         A special Flag Day Service, presented by Elks Lodge 2092, highlighting the history of the American Flag.

·         Patriotic music, featuring the Father Andrew White, S.J. School chorus and the cast from Recreation & Parks 41^st Annual Summerstock Production, School of Rock.

·         An official Flag Retirement Ceremony, led by American Legion Post 221, demonstrating the dignified and proper method of disposing of worn, torn, or tattered flags.

·         Free hand-held American Flags for attendees.

·         Refreshments provided by the 7th District Optimist Club.

Seating will be provided, but attendees are also welcome to bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the festivities from the comfort of the lawn. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will relocate to the inside of the Leonard Hall Recreation Center, adjacent to the lawn.

Citizens may drop off flags in need of retirement to the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. For more information, contact the Public Information Office at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1342 or via email to PIO@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Secretary Jake Day today announced the department will administer nearly $24 million in federal funding to provide gap financing to projects statewide that will create dozens of affordable housing units. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved the state’s plan to administer $23,971,599 in HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan Program (HOME-ARP) funding provided through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which appropriated $5 billion nationwide to provide housing, services, and shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable populations. Maryland also received more than $5.4 million to produce affordable housing as part of HUD’s annual allocation from the national Housing Trust Fund.

“All Marylanders deserve the safety and stability of shelter. To end chronic homelessness in Maryland we must increase the supply of affordable housing to provide that shelter while connecting at-risk and low-income individuals and households with essential supportive services,” said Secretary Day. “This funding brings us closer to achieving Governor Moore's vision of a state that leaves no one behind. I thank Maryland’s congressional delegation and our federal partners at HUD for their support, and I commend the numerous local organizations and stakeholders that contributed their input and insight in drafting our now-approved allocation plan.”

Under program requirements, HOME-ARP funds must primarily benefit the homeless, those at-risk of homelessness, and other vulnerable populations. In drafting Maryland’s HOME-ARP plan DHCD engaged with more than 100 stakeholders through a series of one-on-one consultations, listening sessions, public hearings, and an online survey. These stakeholders included local Continuums of Care, homeless service providers, domestic violence service providers, veterans’ services groups, public housing agencies, nonprofits, and other public and private organizations that address fair housing, civil rights, and the needs of persons with disabilities. The department estimates that through HOME-ARP funding, approximately 12 projects statewide could receive gap financing, leveraging Low Income Housing Tax Credits, state Rental Housing Funds, Housing Trust Funds, and other financing sources to create approximately 70 affordable units.

The Housing Trust Fund provides grants to states and state-designated entities to create and preserve affordable housing for households designated by HUD as extremely low- or very low-income households. Each state must use at least 80 percent of each grant for rental housing; up to 10 percent for homeownership; and up to 10 percent for administration and planning. All rental units receiving Housing Trust Fund assistance will be required to be reserved as affordable units for 30 years.

For more information about state resources that support affordable rental housing, visit: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/HousingDevelopment.

BALTIMORE, MD (May 22, 2023) – The Maryland Transportation Authority is highlighting the important roles that each motorist plays in safely navigating another summer travel season that gets underway this Memorial Day holiday. A commitment to safe driving practices will help protect yourself, your family and other travelers on our roadways. In addition, traveling off-peak will assist in reducing anticipated travel delays crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Drivers may also find time savings using the I-95 northern route via the Tydings Bridge when traveling from shore to shore. Memorial Day Week and Weekend Travel Higher volumes of traffic are expected at the Bay Bridge between Friday, May 26, and Monday, May 29.

Maryland Transportation Authority officials project that more than 325,000 vehicles will cross the bridge during that period. It should be noted that delays are to be expected at the bridge and along the US 50 corridor throughout the entire holiday travel period. Heavier eastbound traffic volumes are expected Thursday, May 25, through Saturday, May 27, with heavier westbound traffic volumes expected to build Sunday, May 28, and Monday, May 29.

Motorists should stay on US 50 on both sides of the bridge to keep local roadways open for first responders and residents. For 24/7 Bay Bridge traffic information call 1-877-BAYSPAN (1-877-229-7726) or visit Baybridge.com. For real-time updates on major incidents on Maryland toll roads follow twitter.com/TheMDTA on Twitter. -more- Page Two The best times to travel across the Bay Bridge this holiday period will be off-peak, including: • Thursday, May 25 – before 10 a.m. and after 9 p.m. • Friday, May 26 – before 8 a.m. and after 9 p.m. • Saturday, May 27 – before 8 a.m. and after 4 p.m. • Sunday, May 28 – before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m. • Memorial Day Monday, May 29 – before 8 a.m. and after 10 p.m. Weather and traffic permitting, two-way operations will be implemented to help alleviate eastbound delays at the Bay Bridge.

Two-way operations may be limited based on westbound traffic volumes, as bridge officials strive to mitigate delays on both sides of the bridge. Two-way operations are prohibited during bridge wind warnings/restrictions, fog/limited visibility or times of precipitation, and may be prohibited during incidents. Bay Bridge Automated Lane Closure System Now Active on Both Sides of the Bridge The new Automated Lane Closure System at the Bay Bridge uses overhead lane-use control signals and full-color dynamic message signs, horizontal swing gates and illuminated pavement markers to alert and guide motorists when lanes are opening and closing to accommodate traffic operations.

Motorists must pay attention and adhere to overhead lane signals. Lane signals apply to travel lanes BEFORE, ON and AFTER the bridge wherever lane signals are present. • RED X: Means the lane is closed. You MUST NOT enter or travel in any lane over which a RED X signal is shown. • YELLOW X: Prepare to vacate the lane beneath the YELLOW X signal and move to a lane with a DOWNWARD GREEN ARROW. • DOWNWARD GREEN ARROW: Motorists can drive in the lane beneath the GREEN ARROW signal. Remember: Police enforcement is continuing for motorists failing to obey the lane-use control signals on the highway approaches and on the bridge. -more- Page Three Easiest Way to Pay Maryland Tolls Tolls in Maryland are collected through E-ZPass, Pay-By-Plate and Video Tolling. E-ZPass is the most costeffective way to travel toll roads in Maryland, saving drivers up to 77% versus the higher rates and also saving the additional paperwork that comes with Video Tolls. With Pay-By-Plate, tolls are automatically billed to the driver’s registered credit card as they use Maryland toll facilities, with no need for a transponder or pre-paid deposit. Pay-By-Plate rates are the same as former cash rates. Motorists who travel Maryland toll roads without E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate – Video Tolling customers – can save 15% (maximum of $5 per transaction) by paying their Video Tolls before the notice is mailed. Learn more and enroll in E-ZPass or sign up for Pay-By-Plate at https://www.driveezmd.com/acct-types/. If using a rental vehicle over the holiday, you can add vehicle information temporarily to an E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate account.

Otherwise, be sure to alert the rental car company before traveling a route that includes a toll facility. To ensure the lowest toll rate for your E-ZPass account, customers are reminded to: • keep vehicle and billing information up to date (e.g., check for expired credit cards, etc.); • maintain a positive balance; • properly mount your E-ZPass transponder prior to traveling a toll facility, and • E-ZPass users can utilize the new DriveEZMD app for managing their accounts. DriveEzMD Customer Service Centers will be closed Saturday, May 27, and Monday, May 29. Visit DriveEzMD.com or use the automated system at 1-888-321-6824 for 24/7 account maintenance or to make payments. Safety First for the Memorial Day Weekend Protect yourself, your family and other travelers this Memorial Day weekend by following these rules of the road: •

Remember that Maryland’s Move Over law applies to all stopped vehicles displaying any type of caution signals or warning lights. If you cannot safely move over into an available lane that’s not immediately adjacent to the stopped vehicle, slow down. • Allow for extra time to get to your destination. • Adhere to speed limits. Speeding gives you less time to react and increases the severity of a crash. • Don’t drive distracted. Any activity that takes your focus away from the road ahead is a distraction. • NEVER drive impaired by drugs or alcohol. Impaired driving endangers your life and the lives of others. • Look twice for motorcycles. For motorcycle riders, remember that in Maryland individuals may not operate or ride on a motorcycle unless they wear a helmet that is certified to meet U.S. Department of Transportation standards. • Commercial vehicles must travel across the Bay Bridge in the right lane. • Secure your load in vehicles and trailers before traveling. Items that can shift, slide or fall onto the roadway can lead to serious vehicle crashes, especially on roads with no shoulders like bridges. • Make sure your vehicle is road ready. If your vehicle breaks down, exit the roadway. If that isn’t possible, remain inside your vehicle and call #77 for assistance. Maryland Transportation Authority Police will remain vigilant and target dangerous drivers, seat belt violations and criminal activity throughout the holiday travel period. To report aggressive or dangerous driving on Maryland toll roads, call MDTA Police Dispatch at 410-537-7911. The Maryland Transportation Authority reminds motorists to follow all traffic laws and plan for your travels in advance. Let’s work together to make sure everyone arrives at their destinations safely, and show fellow drivers that a little courtesy can go a long way in helping achieve that goal.

May 22, 2023

On Friday, May 19, 2023, at 9:19 pm, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol deputies were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision involving life-threatening injuries in the area of Point Lookout Road (Route 5) and Frederick Lane in Loveville. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to continue the investigation.

Preliminary investigation determined that a 1998 Toyota Corolla, operated by Robert Edward Lee Jr., age 44 of Brandywine, was traveling northbound on Point Lookout Road, and for unknown reasons crossed the centerline of the road, striking a 2019 Jeep Cherokee, operated by Marcerra Nichole Jordan, age 36 of Leonardtown. Jordan was transported to a local hospital with suspected minor injuries. Lee was transported to Baltimore Shock Trauma for incapacitating injuries.

At this time, it is unknown if speed or impairment are a factor in the collision. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or any events leading up to the collision, and has not already provided a statement, is asked to call Cpl. Rachael Roszell at 301-475-4200, ext. 78108 or email rachael.roszell@stmaryscountymd.gov.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, today released a report titled “Impacts of Budget Cuts and Brinkmanship on Small Businesses.” The report focuses on the challenges that small businesses will face if we default on our debt and what the effects of deep budget cuts will cause. It also examines how the Default on America Act, or the Limit, Save, Grow Act would severely curtail services, resources and incentives for current and future entrepreneurs and small business owners.

“This report shows that spending cuts would hurt our small businesses at a time when they need our support the most. Now is not the time to abandon them,” said Chair Cardin. “With the Republicans’ proposed budget cuts, small business owners would struggle to keep their doors open.  Already burdened with rebuilding from COVID-19, this would put them over the edge. We must come together for our great nation and local, vibrant corridors to find a solution that does not cripple the backbone of our economy – our small businesses.”

Excerpts from the report are below. A full copy can be found HERE.

• “Cuts to the Small Business Administration would have a significant impact on small business owners, and especially veteran small business owners. The agency plays a crucial role in assisting veterans navigate the process of accessing capital, especially in the current economic climate.”

• “If Entrepreneurial Development program funding levels were capped at FY2022 levels, this would be a cut of $29.9 million from FY2023 funding levels, and SBA would reach 125,000 fewer small businesses and entrepreneurs. If program funding levels were reduced by 22% from FY2023 levels, this would be a reduction of $70.4 million and 295,000 fewer small businesses would be served.”

• “As is so often the case, minority and underserved small businesses would feel these effects the most. Minority and underserved communities tend to rely on entrepreneurship and small business ownership as a career path at a higher rate than others; it is a path of self-determination for those who may not have that option elsewhere. Underserved communities have very little safety net and often operate on very thin profit margins. Sustaining, much less recovering from, such significant losses caused by a default would be an uphill battle that spans years.”

• “Republicans have joined Democrats to cleanly raise the debt limit several times in history. Since 1960, Congress has raised the debt limit 78 times — 49 times under Republican presidents and 29 times under Democratic presidents. The limit has been raised 20 times since 2001 alone and was raised by suspension 3 times under the Trump Administration.”

• “In recent history, the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is a driving force in increasing our debt because of the tax cuts given to the wealthy and large corporations at the expense of everyday Americans and small businesses.”

• ”Taken together, the 2001 Bush tax cuts and the bipartisan extensions it along with the 2017 Trump tax cuts have cost $10 trillion since their creation and are responsible for 57 percent of the increase in the debt to spending ratio since then.”

On May 16 at 1:07 p.m., officers were patrolling the 3500 block of Crain Highway in Waldorf when they observed two occupied Hyundai vehicles in the parking lot of a business. A computer check revealed both cars were reported stolen in nearby jurisdictions. Officers initiated a traffic stop, but the drivers sped off. Simultaneously, as officers followed the stolen cars, a 9-1-1 call was received that a group of suspects had, moments earlier, entered a business at St. Charles Towne Center and stole merchandise. The description of the suspects’ vehicles matched the two stolen cars the officers were attempting to stop.

The suspects fled to the Smallwood Park and Ride where they got out of the cars and attempted to hide; however, they were apprehended without further incident. Two adults and four juveniles were arrested. The adults, Deshaun Deamonte Whitaker, 18, of Washington, D.C., and Vincent Lee Alston, 21, of Washington, D.C. were charged with theft, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and rogue and vagabond. On May 18, a judge released Whitaker on $2,000 unsecured bond. Alston is currently being held at the Charles County Detention Center without bond.

The four juveniles were charged on a Juvenile Offense Report with theft and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and were set to be released to an adult guardian; however, that guardian and two other females arrived at the police station in what appeared to be another stolen car which drove away after they were dropped off.  After taking custody of the juveniles, the three females and teens walked away on foot. Officers began searching the area for the vehicle in which the females arrived, locating it on a nearby street. Officers initiated an investigation after observing the steering column had significant damage and the back window was broken out. The officer ordered everyone to exit the vehicle at which time the driver fled, nearly striking one of the officers and pinning him between shrubs and the stolen car. The driver was able to continue driving a short distance away where all of the occupants jumped out of the vehicle. That vehicle was later confirmed stolen from a neighboring jurisdiction.

The driver, Anthony Matthew Stewart, 19, of Washington, D.C., was apprehended after a brief foot chase and was charged with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, theft, unauthorized use of a vehicle, and providing a false name. Stewart was also found to have active unrelated arrest warrants. Three juveniles were also apprehended including a 16-year-old male who had active arrest warrants, a 13-year-old female who was reported missing from a nearby county; and another juvenile. They were charged with theft, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and other related charges. The three females who arrived to the police station in the stolen car were also charged. Carlisa Monnae Blackeney, 18, of Washington, D.C., and Mahkiyh McQuinn-Woodly, 18, of Hagerstown, and a juvenile female were arrested and charged with theft, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, providing a false name, and rogue and vagabond. The occupants in all three vehicles are known to each other. On May 17, a judge released Blakeney and McQuinn-Woodly from the Charles County Detention Center on a $2,000 unsecured bond. Stewart is being held at the Charles County Detention Center on a $25,000 bond. Officers Morrison and Gordon are investigating.

Middle School Student Falls Ill after Ingesting Edible Containing Possible THC: On May 19 at 2:30 p.m., a student at Mattawoman Middle School ingested an edible, possibly containing THC, which another student provided. The student became ill and was treated by EMS. As the school resource officer investigates, parents are urged to talk with their children about the dangers of ingesting foods or liquids that contain dangerous substances. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Douglas at 301-609-3282 ext. 0658.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, 2023, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.

The May 29 closure also includes:

• All three St. Mary's County Libraries (Charlotte Hall, Leonardtown, and Lexington Park)
• All three Senior Activity Centers (Garvey, Loffler, and Northern), and there will be no home-delivered meals
• The St. Mary's Transit System (STS)
• Department of Recreation & Parks school programs and facilities
• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill

The following SMCG operations will be open on May 29:

• Great Mills Pool (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• Wellness & Aquatics Center (6 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
• The St. Clements Island Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum (open for visitors from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• The Wicomico Shores Golf Course (open 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.); the Riverview Restaurant (open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

The Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey, a cooperative effort between the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), estimates 323 million blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay in 2023, an increase from last year’s low of 227 million crabs.

The number of spawning age female crabs increased from 97 million crabs in 2022 to 152 million crabs in 2023, a substantial increase and well above the management threshold of 72.5 million crabs. Additionally, adult male crabs increased from 28 million crabs in 2022 to 55 million crabs in 2023.

“We are encouraged by the increases in adult crab abundance, but we need to be vigilant given the ongoing low recruitment numbers,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fishing and Boating Services Acting Director Lynn Fegley. “We haven’t seen a strong year class since 2019 despite maintaining the spawning stock at a level capable of producing one.”

Blue crab reproduction is naturally variable and influenced by many factors such as oceanic conditions, available nursery habitat, predation, and other environmental impacts. The number of juvenile crabs in the Chesapeake Bay has been below average for the past four years with the 2023 estimate at 116 million crabs, just a slight increase from 101 million juvenile crabs in 2022. 

The consecutive years of low juvenile abundance prompted the Chesapeake Bay Stock Assessment Committee to hold a workshop last fall to explore recruitment drivers and begin planning for a new stock assessment.

The new assessment will allow fishery managers to take an in-depth look at their understanding of the ecology of this species, how it is modeled, and whether the reference points used for management should be revised.

The stock assessment process will kick off later this year with a data workshop coordinated by the NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office and funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In the meantime, the Chesapeake Bay Stock Assessment Committee will review the survey results for this year and provide their scientific advice for management. Following their advice, DNR will begin discussions with the Blue Crab Industry Advisory Committee to provide guidance concerning the course of action for 2023 that promotes the health and sustainability of the Chesapeake Bay blue crab population and its fisheries.

The Winter Dredge Survey has been conducted cooperatively by Maryland and Virginia since 1990, and the results are reviewed annually in an effort to have consistent management efforts across the jurisdictions. Throughout the survey, biologists use dredge equipment to capture, measure, record and release blue crabs at 1,500 sites throughout the Chesapeake Bay from December through March. Detailed results are on the DNR website.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) today reintroduced the Democracy Restoration Act of 2023 (DRA), which would finally end the permanent denial of voting rights nationwide for individuals with criminal convictions who have been released from incarceration. The bill, S. 1677, aims to eliminate the complicated patchwork of state laws, many harkening back to the Jim Crow era. The current system exacerbates racial disparities in access to the ballot box and contributes to confusion and misinformation regarding voting rights.

“Voting is a fundamental right of citizenship, and under our Constitution there is no legitimate justification for denying people who have paid their dues from having a voice in our democracy. At the federal level, we must finally remove these remnants of the post-Civil War and Jim Crow eras -- laws that were put on the books to permanently disenfranchise African American voters for life regardless of how relatively minor the violations may be,” said Senator Cardin. “Maryland is one of many states that have taken steps to restore the rights of people who have previously been incarcerated. We need to make a change to restore these rights nationally.”

As noted in the legislation, “in 2022, over 4,600,000 citizens of the United States, or about 1 in 50 adults in the United States, could not vote as a result of a felony conviction. Of the 4,600,000 citizens barred from voting then, only 23 percent were in prison or jail. By contrast, 75 percent of persons disenfranchised then resided in their communities while on probation or parole or after having completed their sentences. Approximately 2,200,000 citizens who had completed their sentences were disenfranchised due to restrictive State laws.”

Senate cosponsors of the Democracy Restoration Act include Senators Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio).

The Democracy Restoration Act is endorsed by a large coalition of civil rights, faith-based and criminal justice groups. This includes the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law, the Sentencing Project, the Voting Rights Restoration Working Group, the American Bar Association, the Daniel Initiative, as well as NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., Safer Foundation, Just Future Project, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, Federal School Discipline & Climate Coalition, The Economic Equity Roundtable, The Tech Equity Council, Coalition on International Aid, Formerly Incarcerated Persons Working Group, Free Hearts, Stand Up America, National Council for Incarcerated Women and Girls, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, DC Corrections Information Council, and others. 

"With this bill, Congress has the opportunity to remove a barrier to the ballot box that keeps millions of Americans who are living in the community on the outside of our democracy looking in,” said Sean Morales-Doyle, Director of the Voting Rights and Elections Program at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law. Despite Florida and Virginia moving in the wrong direction on restoring voting rights to people with past criminal convictions, voters and state lawmakers around the country are widely supportive. For communities of color, this reform is especially critical, as they are disproportionately ensnared in the criminal justice system. Congress must pass the Democracy Restoration Act."

“The Democracy Restoration Act is essential to bringing our democracy closer to its ideals. Stripping citizens of their fundamental right to vote because of criminal convictions is an ugly relic of the Jim Crow era that still strips millions of the most marginalized Americans of representation. For our democracy to truly work, everyone must have a voice and a vote,” said Xavier Persad, Senior Policy Counsel, ACLU.

“Voting rights restoration is not just a criminal justice issue, this is a democracy and a civil rights issue. Millions of Americans are locked out of the ballot box due to a past conviction; yet a majority have returned home with hopes of a better future. They are living in community, building businesses, paying taxes, and raising families, but don’t have a clear path back to full citizenship. We know that civic engagement increases community belonging and public safety; therefore, our country is safest and strongest when everyone can vote. As long as we are carving Americans out of democratic participation, we are failing to realize the true potential of this representative democracy. It is time to divorce ourselves from the racist roots of felony disenfranchisement and restore the vote. The Voting Rights Restoration Working Group remains grateful to Senator Cardin for being a steadfast champion on this issue for over a decade. We look forward to growing this level of support in the 118th Congress,” said Brittany Lovely, Breon Wells, and Kenneth Goldsmith, co-chairs of the Voting Rights Restoration Working Group.

“Today, millions of Americans are barred from voting due to outdated, racist laws that bar people from voting due to their history with the criminal legal system. America is an international outlier; no other modern democracy bars so many people from voting due to their involvement with the criminal legal system. There is simply no place for these laws in a modern society. Moreover, research shows that the act of voting promotes reintegration, social responsibility, and community engagement - all of which reduces future contact with the criminal legal system. The Sentencing Project thanks Senator Ben Cardin for introducing the Democracy Restoration Act, and we urge Congress to pass this legislation so that it can be signed into law as soon as possible,” said Nicole D. Porter, Senior Director of Advocacy with The Sentencing Project.

“[Disenfranchisement] plays no legitimate role in protecting the public and impedes an individual’s successful reintegration into society at the completion of his or her sentence,” said American Bar Association President Deborah Enix-Ross. People lose liberties when convicted of a crime, but they do not lose their citizenship. They are still accorded rights under the Constitution such as free speech and due process, and we find no reason to distinguish voting from these other fundamental rights. Yet, state and federal governments’ application of criminal law disproportionately punishes individuals along racial and ethnic lines, resulting in a stunning correlation between the permanent loss of the right to vote and Black, Indigenous and communities of color. Your landmark bill is a critical step in rectifying a historical wrong.”

"The Daniel Initiative (TDI) applauds Senator Cardin and his colleagues on reintroducing the Democracy Restoration Act (DRA). This critical legislation provides a pathway to restoring humanity and citizenship to over 4 million formerly incarcerated and justice impacted individuals. Felony disenfranchisement is one of the most heinous and pernicious collateral consequences that impedes an individual's ability to seek restoration, provide restitution where necessary, and be fully productive contributors to our communities. The Daniel Initiative works to ensure that no one's right to vote is ever revoked. The DRA would bring us a few steps closer to that aspiration. For us, voting rights restoration is voting rights. In a time where recidivism rates are rising, we believe that this bill equips society with another tool to combat recidivism. TDI would like to thank Senator Cardin for championing this issue for more than a decade. We earnestly endeavor to increase Congressional support of the DRA,” said Breon Wells, President & Founder of The Daniel Initiative.

Studies indicate that disenfranchisement is associated with an increased risk of recidivism. Still, individuals with convictions in a majority of states may not vote while they are on parole and 25 states disenfranchise individuals on felony probation or parole. In 11 states, a conviction can result in lifetime disenfranchisement. Several states deny the right to vote to individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors. These state laws deny citizens participation in our democracy and have a disproportionate impact on African Americans and other racial minorities.

In recent years, African Americans have been imprisoned at over five times the rate of whites. More than 6 percent of the voting-age African American population, or 1,800,000 African Americans, are disenfranchised due to a felony conviction. Recently, Latinos have been imprisoned at 2.5 times the rate of whites. Approximately 1.7 percent of the voting-age Latino population, or 506,000 Latinos, are disenfranchised due to a felony conviction. In addition, 1,000,000 women were disenfranchised in 2022, comprising over 20 percent of the total disenfranchised population.

The full text of S. 1677, the Democracy Restoration Act, is available here. A section-by-section summary can be found here.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced that a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Randy Thomas Dindlebeck, 27, of Mechanicsville, MD, on all counts, including sex abuse of a minor and third-degree sex offense, stemming from multiple incidents of sexual abuse on the same child between July and September 2021.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling said, “No child should ever undergo this horror, and I sincerely hope the verdict provides closure and relief to the victim and family. My office will continue prosecuting these cases vigorously; we are committed to defending our children.” Sterling went on to say, “These types of cases are difficult and complicated, and I want to extend my thanks and appreciation to the jury for their time and attention during the trial.”

Chief of the Special Victims Unit, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Sarah Proctor, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Corporal Trevor Teague of St Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The St. Mary’s County Department of Social Services, Child Protective Services assisted in the investigation.

Mr. Dindlebeck will be held without bond pending a sentencing hearing.

The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided over the case.

 Often considered the unofficial kick-off to summer, Memorial Day weekend is synonymous with outdoor celebrations and cookouts. With the holiday just around the corner and the warmer months upon us, the National Fire Protection Association^® (NFPA^®) is working to ensure that people understand where potential grilling risks exist and ways to minimize them.

“Because outdoor grilling involves the use of a fuel source to generate an open flame, it inherently presents potential fire risks that needs to be taken seriously,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA.

NFPA data shows that between 2017 and 2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 11,421 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues, including 5,763 structure fires and 5,659 outside or unclassified fires. These fires caused an annual average of two civilian deaths, 176 reported civilian injuries, and $172 million in direct property damage. July was the leading month for grilling fires (16 percent), followed by June (14 percent), May (12 percent) and August (11 percent); grilling fires in November through February accounted for 4 percent or less each year.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), for the same fire-year period, an annual average of 22,155 patients went to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills. Nearly half (47 percent) of the injuries were thermal burns, including both burns from fire and from contact with hot objects. These burns typically occurred when someone, often a child, bumped into, touched or fell on the grill, grill part or hot coals. In fact, children under five accounted for an average of 2,820 of the contact-type burns (46 percent) per year.

“These numbers reinforce that grilling fires can and do happen. However, there’s no need to avoid grilling during Memorial Day or in the months ahead,” said Carli. “Instead, by following simple safety precautions, people can greatly reduce the risk of experiencing a grilling fire.”

NFPA offers a wealth of tips, recommendations, and resources for grilling safely, including these key messages:

• For propane grills, check the gas tank for leaks before use in the months ahead. (Watch NFPA’s video on how to check for leaks.)

• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.

• Place the grill well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.

• If you use starter fluid when charcoal grilling, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. When you have or are finished grilling, let the coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container.

• Never leave your grill unattended when in use.

For this release and other announcements about NFPA initiatives, research and more, please visit the NFPA press room.

About the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)

Founded in 1896, NFPA is a global self-funded nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property, and economic loss due to fire, electrical, and related hazards. The 125-year-old Association delivers information and knowledge through more than 300 consensus codes and standards, research, training, education, outreach and advocacy; and by partnering with others who share an interest in furthering the NFPA mission. For more information, visit www.nfpa.org. All NFPA codes and standards can be viewed online for free at www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.

During the week of May 8 – May 14, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,702 calls for service throughout the community.

Commercial Burglary: 23-34161

Deputies with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Smoke Shack located at 10 Creston Lane in Solomons, for the report of a burglary. Investigation revealed at approximately 4 a.m., an unknown male broke a window and entered the business, stole merchandise, and fled the scene. The estimated value of stolen property is unknown at this time.

Damaged Property: 23-33513

On May 11, 2023, DFC Krueger responded to the 3900 block of 5^th Street in North Beach, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised an unknown suspect (s) threw a rock at the backdoor, breaking the window panel portion of the door. The estimated value of damaged property is $100.00.

Property Destruction: 23-32683

On May 8, 2023, Cpl. Callison was conducting a routine patrol check of Sea Horse Beach located in the Chesapeake Ranch Estates in Lusby and observed property destruction to the bath house. Investigation revealed unknown suspects spray painted the bath house and picnic tables at Sea Horse Beach with multiple gang related slurs and phrases. Further investigation revealed the rocks, picnic tables, and reflective sign at Driftwood Beach had also been spray painted with the same gang related slurs and phrases. The estimated value of damaged property is $2,000.00.

Property Destruction: 23-33846

On May 12, 2023, Deputy Smith responded to Cove Point Park located at 750 Cove Point Road in Lusby, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised unknown suspects ripped the wall-mounted soap dispensers out in three of the restrooms. The dispensers were discovered broken on the floor. The estimated value of damaged property is $180.00.

Theft: 23-33001

On May 9, 2023, DFC Durnbaugh responded to the 3500 block of Tenley Place in Owings, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect (s) stole a red Wilton Vise that was bolted to the victim’s Rigid TRISTAND sometime between 6 p.m. on May 4 and 12:15 p.m. on May 9. The estimated value of stolen property is $2,500.00.

ARRESTS

On May 12, 2023, Deputy Tavares responded to the 200 block of Thunderbird Drive in Lusby, for the report of a suspicious person. The complainant advised a suspicious male was seen with needles in his hand walking to the rear of the residence. Deputies arrived on scene and observed Anthony Joseph Pessagno Jr., 34 of Lusby, outside the residence with a hypodermic needle filled with a clear liquid. Pessagno was placed into custody. Investigation revealed Pessagno entered a home in the 11600 block of Mohican Ln. uninvited and unannounced. The homeowner located Pessagno in the victim’s living room and asked him to leave. Pessagno was observed on security cameras attempting to open doors at both residences. Deputies transported Pessagno to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Burglary-4^th Degree, Trespassing: Private Property and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.
 

On May 11, 2023, DFC Aranda responded to 19 E. Chesapeake Beach Road in Owings, to assist Anne Arundel Police Department with the transport of a subject in custody. Matthew Robert McCormack, 39 of Chesapeake Beach, was being transported to the Calvert County Detention Center for an open warrant. Upon arrival at the jail, McCormack changed into a jumpsuit provided to him and a glass cylindrical pipe fell from McCormack’s pants. Further investigation revealed, both ends of the pipe were burnt and a white powdery residue (suspected cocaine) was found inside. McCormack was charged with Possession of Contraband in a Place of Confinement, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

 

On May 8, 2023, Deputy Tavares initiated a traffic stop in the area of Rousby Hall Road and HG Trueman Road in Lusby, for a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the driver, Delante Orlando Rash Murphy, 34 of Bryans Road, a strong odor of Cannabis was emitting from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed three clear tear-off bags containing a white powdery residue (suspected cocaine totaling 24.5 grams), multiple individually packaged containers of Cannabis (totaling 83.1 grams), a cut straw containing a white powdery residue (suspected cocaine) and two pills of Ecstasy. Murphy was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

DUI Arrests for the week of May 8 thru May 14

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 St. Mary’s County Health Hub will host an open house on June 3, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.  
 
Community members are invited to the open house to learn more about the many services provided by the Health Hub and get a tour of the facility. Operated by the St. Mary’s County Health Department in collaboration with several community partners, the Health Hub provides a wide range of services including behavioral health crisis walk-in services and primary care medical services. The Health Hub also addresses various life factors that influence health – such as employment, financial well-being, violence, youth development, education/literacy, and housing.
 
“Our health department team is so proud of the many partners that work to serve our community through the Health Hub,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “We hope people will take advantage of this event to see what great resources are offered and meet some of the community partners involved.” 
 
To learn more about the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, visit smchd.org/hub.

Replica Firearm Recovered from Student: On May 17 at approximately 10:30 a.m., administrators at the F.B. Gwynn Educational Center found a student to be in possession of a pellet gun in their book bag. The school resource officer was notified and initiated an investigation. The school resource officer notified the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services to provide services as needed. 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 call M/Cpl. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext. 0475. The investigation is ongoing.

This weekend our State Fire Marshals, Fire Inspectors and Administrative members of the department in partnership with our local Fire/EMS Departments will be knocking on doors to help support our Statewide Maryland Community Risk Reduction Weekend, May 20-21, 2023.  As we enter this weekend over 40 Marylanders from across the state have lost their lives to fire and we are asking that we all come together to ensure that our homes are fire safe and have working smoke alarms installed to help safe guard and alert us when fire is present. You can contact our office for a smoke alarm attached is our locations and we ask that you also reach out to your local Fire Department to help with the request.

Many ask how smoke alarms work, there are two styles of alarms they are: Photoelectric and Ionization.

• Photoelectric smoke detectors are best at detecting large smoke particles from slow, smoldering fires. What Is an Ionization Smoke Detector? An ionization smoke detector contains a small bit of radioactive material that sits between two plates with electrical charges; the charge ionizes the air and causes a current to move between the plates.

• Ionization smoke alarms are generally more responsive to flaming fires. How they work: Ionization-type smoke alarms have a small amount of radioactive material between two electrically charged plates, which ionizes the air and causes current to flow between the plates.

Either smoke alarm can be used. We ask that if your alarm in more than 10 years old you need to change out the system completely this goes for both the stand alone and the hard-wired. It is important that you keep with these maintained. If an alarm sounds, react immediately and without hesitation dial 911 for help. 

Here are the top 5 MOST important items that we ask you do to keep you and your family safe in case a fire was to breakout in your residence. 

1. Placement of Alarms: We want you to have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, They should be placed outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom. We ask that you test them monthly and if you find a problem reach out for help. Replace the alarms if they are 10 years or older. This goes both for Hard-wired as well. 
2. Close Before You Doze: At night, make sure all bedroom doors are closed, and be sure to close all doors behind you when you are escaping a fire. This will prevent the spread of smoke and fire throughout your home and give you time to be rescued if trapped by a fire.
3. Develop an Escape Plan: Meet with your family and develop an escape plan, have two ways out of every room. Make sure door locks are openable without using a key, and that bedroom windows are operational from the inside. Have a meeting place outside the home so your family can ensure everyone got out. We ask that you practice this plan every 6 months and if you have guest that are staying over inform them as well incase a fire was to occur.
4. Get Out and Stay Out: We want you to Get out and Stay Out Always! Once out, NEVER EVER go back inside a burning building! You will not come back out alive. 
5. Call 911: Once out, make that 911 call immediately to the fire department to get them started as soon as possible. When calling try and stay calm, account for everyone that is with you and give a good and complete address to your location. Stay on with the dispatcher they will ask you questions to help the responding fire department.  

If you know someone that requires a Hard of Hearing Smoke Alarm and Bed Shaker please visit: Our Application Process | fabscom-maryland and you can request one to be installed. 

On Wednesday, May 17, 2023, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office charged a 55-year-old Lexington Park man with sex offenses involving an 18-year-old victim.

Kelly Eugene McClure-Hewitt, an Assistant Principal at Leonardtown High School, was arrested and charged via warrant with Third-Degree Sex Offense, Fourth-Degree Sex Offense: Sexual Contact and Second-Degree Assault.

On March 27, 2023, in cooperation with St. Mary’s County Public Schools, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office detectives began investigating the victim’s written complaint. The 18-year-old male victim alleged a series of encounters with McClure-Hewitt in March at Leonardtown High School. The victim stated that during multiple visits to his office, McClure-Hewitt provided unsolicited gifts, discussed sexual preference and made unwanted sexual contact. Prior to the unsolicited contact, the victim did not know McClure-Hewitt and had no previous contact of any kind.

McClure-Hewitt was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown where he is held on a no-bond status, pending a hearing on May 18, 2023.

School Resource Officer Investigating Possible Overdose after Student Obtained Cannabis Edible at High School: On May 16 just after 3p.m., patrol officers responded to a residence in Waldorf for the report of an overdose. Initial investigation revealed that a juvenile had obtained a cannabis edible shortly before dismissal at St. Charles High School, and called 911 after arriving home and becoming ill. The victim was transported to a hospital for evaluation. The School Resource Officer was notified and began an investigation. 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 Officer Thompson at 301-609-3282 ext. 0434 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).

May 17, 2023

A 32-year-old California man was arrested and charged by St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol deputies on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, following two road rage incidents involving two separate drivers.

Eric Michael Davis, age 32 of California, was charged with two counts of First-Degree Assault, two counts of Second-Degree Assault and two counts of Firearm Use in a Violent Crime.

On Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at 4:48 pm, DFC Max Schell responded to the area of Three Notch Road and Patuxent Beach Road in California for the report of a man who had pointed a firearm at a victim. The victim advised while driving home from work on Three Notch Road at the intersection of Shady Mile Drive, a man in a green truck in the next lane pointed a gun at the victim.

Upon investigation with the assistance of the Criminal Investigations Division, Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Davis’ address and located the 2000 Ford F-150 truck described by the victim.

Earlier on Tuesday, at 2:22 pm, the St. Mary’s County Emergency Communications Center received a separate complaint of a man in a green truck driving erratically in the area of Patuxent Beach Road. The vehicle began speeding around the two victims in their car and eventually traveled to the passenger side and hit the brakes, provoking an altercation. The passenger looked over and observed Davis pointing a black handgun straight in the air. The victims hit their brakes to elude Davis.

The investigation by Deputy Joseph Senatore determined that both incidents were connected.

Davis is in custody at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown where he is being held without bond pending a hearing this afternoon.

The Department of Community Services and the Charles County Public Library are partnering to distribute Chromebook devices to Charles County households that qualify at or below the national poverty level.  Distribution will begin in June throughout the county at different zip codes and times to accommodate transportation and work schedules.   

Eligibility for a device includes:

• One device per household or address.
• Must be a Charles County resident (proof of residency required).
• Recipients must verify that they are enrolled in another federal benefit, such as SNAP, Medicaid, etc., to show that the household income is at or below the two-hundred percent national poverty level.

This program is funded through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. Five hundred Chromebooks will be available for distribution on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Technology support and tutorials will be available for recipients.  This program ends in October 2023.

To view the distribution schedule, visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/government/departments/community-services. Applicants must bring documents to verify income or enrollment in another benefit to complete the application and verify Charles County residency. 

For more information about the program, contact the Department of Community Services at 301-934-9305 or CCACCYF-LMB@CharlesCountyMD.gov.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

SAN DIEGO - Information System Technician 2nd class Robyn Adams, a native of Waldorf, Maryland, instructs new sailors on the importance of cyber security in the ship's classroom 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)

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) is pleased to announce the planned purchase of Willows Recreation Center. This facility is set to become the new home of the St. Mary’s Gymnastics Academy, offering competitive and recreational gymnastics. In addition to gymnastics, space will be available for daytime and evening programming that includes a pickleball court, health & wellness classes, dance & leisure classes, and party rentals.

The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County are scheduled to review and sign the contract during their business meeting on May 23, 2023. Renovations are set to begin this June with plans to relocate St. Mary’s Gymnastics Academy into the facility in September of 2023.

“We are excited for local gymnasts, their families, and our Recreation & Parks team," said Commissioner President Randy Guy. "The St. Mary’s Gymnastics Academy has been extremely successful and provides a great recreational outlet for youth, and this facility also offers needed space for other recreation and parks programs."

“This acquisition provides sufficient programming space for recreational and competitive programs in a safe environment, including appropriate ceiling heights to accommodate advanced level gymnast routines,” said Arthur Shepherd, Director of St. Mary’s County Recreation & Parks (R&P). “I appreciate the work of the parent stakeholders and our gymnastics community, who have invested their time, alongside R&P staff in the search for a new facility. The Commissioners have made a strong investment in the future of the gymnastics program by providing this new home for the St. Mary's Gymnastics Academy.”

For more information about the St. Mary’s Gymnastics Academy, please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/gymnastics or call (301) 862-1462.

On Tuesday, May 16, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted a balanced General Fund budget of $527,362,100, an increase of 6.7 percent over last year. The approved budget does not increase the current property tax rate or income tax rate; and fully funds public education, enhances investments in public safety, and finances necessary county infrastructure improvements. It also boosts employee compensation through merit and cost-of-living increases and a one-time take home bonus of $500 for all full-time employees hired on or before June 30, 2023, to be given out before the end of 2023.

“The county's budget reflects our commitment to equitably prioritizing funds that meet the needs of our community, including youth services, business expansion, and arts and entertainment," said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. "It also demonstrates the high value we place on public schools, public safety, and the dedicated employees who deliver high quality services to our residents and businesses."

Budget Highlights

The General Fund budget funds the ongoing costs of government and includes:

• $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 $235.4 million, or 44.6 percent, of the General Fund budget.
• $13.3 million increase for the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, with a total allocation of $121.3 million, or 23.0 percent of the General Fund budget. Four new positions are being funded, 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.
• $10.98 million increase for County Government operations. The total allocation is $89.7 million, or 17.0 percent, of the General Fund budget. New positions added to the budget include sixteen emergency medical technicians and two EMS supply technicians; increased staffing in recreation services, information technology, planning, public works and economic development; and a recruiter for the human resources department.
• A total allocation of $81.0 million, or 15.4 percent, for other government functions including the State’s Attorney’s Office, Health Department, Circuit Court, Election Board, other local government agencies, and debt service payments for bonds and capital asset financing for vehicles and equipment.

The fiscal year 2024-28 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget is $1.03 billion. 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.

The real property tax rate is maintained at $1.141 for County Government and $0.064 for Fire and Rescue per $100 of assessed value. The income tax rate of 3.03 percent remains unchanged.  The adopted fiscal 2024 budget details are available online.

St. Mary’s County Public Schools and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office formally approved the continuation of the successful School Resource Officer and Adopt-a-School programs last week.

J. Scott Smith, Superintendent of Schools, and Sheriff Steve Hall signed A Community Partnership for Safe and Secure Schools agreement and Memorandum of Understanding on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, reaffirming the commitment to providing a safe, secure, and nurturing learning environment for students.

“This agreement is so much more than a signature; it is a commitment to the people of this community and, most importantly, to the students,” Sheriff Hall said.

“Student safety and the security of our schools is a bedrock expectation of our community and can only be achieved by a proactive and collaborative relationship between St. Mary’s County Public Schools and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office,” Smith said, “and these agreements are a public acknowledgment of our shared responsibility.”

In addition to the agreements, Sheriff Hall, Michael Wyant, Chief of Safety and Security for St. Mary’s County Public Schools, and Charles Eible, School Safety Coordinator, provided an update on current and future school security initiatives for all schools. This included the hiring, supervision, and deployment plan for 18 new full-time uniformed safety and security assistants for each elementary school. The 18 new safety and security assistants will supplement the current uniform safety and security assistants currently working in all secondary schools beginning with the opening of school in August of 2023.

A review of physical security infrastructure and procedures in all St. Mary’s County Public Schools were discussed and included updates on the following:

? Security vestibule enhancements, exterior door monitoring, and visitor management

? Electronic access control and classroom door locks

? Security window laminate for exterior and interior windows and doors

? Weapons abatement and weapons scanning

? Public safety radio communications

? School key access for law enforcement responders

? Public address systems

? First aid stations with AEDs. stop the bleed kits, evacuation chairs, and narcan

? Security video surveillance systems

? Student outreach programs

? Background screening for school employees and volunteers

Under the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, the SRO performs a variety of roles to include being a mentor, teacher, and a law enforcement resource for both students and staff. They work with the school faculty to maintain a safe learning environment. Each SRO is certified through the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) as well as through Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) America to teach the middle school D.A.R.E. curriculum. The Middle School D.A.R.E. Program is currently offered at the four public middle schools as part of the Health Curriculum.

The SRO program was implemented in St. Mary's County during the 1998-1999 school year. The Sheriff's Office, in conjunction with the Board of Education of St. Mary's County, entered into a memorandum of understanding which assigned a deputy to each of the three public high schools. The program was expanded during the 2005-2006 school year adding two additional deputies who split their time between the four public middle schools.

During the 2019-2020 school year, two more deputies were added so that one SRO was dedicated to each county public high school and middle school.

In addition to the School Resource Officer program, the St. Mary’s County Adopt-A-School Program provides mentorship to students. Further, it enhances safe and secure school environments by coordinating additional law enforcement resources and support for St. Mary’s County Public Schools.

The Adopt-A-School program matches St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Deputies with elementary schools that currently do not have the direct support of a School Resource Officer. The deputies, who volunteer to participate in the program, “adopt” their matched elementary school to foster a positive relationship with its students.

Each of the deputies who volunteer to adopt a school will receive formal professional development training and participate in quarterly coordination meetings with the St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ Department of Safety and Security.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Government Department of Emergency Services will host an in-person SKYWARN® Tropical course on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Commissioner’s meeting room, located in the Chesapeake Building at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown.

Taught by a National Weather Service meteorologist, the SKYWARN® Tropical course provides in-depth training on tropical weather hazards and the role of spotters during these events. The course is intended for all levels of expertise, though participants should have previously attended a SKYWARN® Basic class.

Topics to be covered include:

• Tropical Cyclone Components and Formation
• Tropical Cyclone Climatology
• Hazards Associated with Tropical Cyclones
• NWS Tropical Weather Products
• The role of a SKYWARN® spotter in Tropical Weather
• Tropical Cyclone Safety

This class is offered free of charge; however, registration is required (class limited to 40 participants).

For more information or to register, please visit weather.gov/lwx/skywarn, call the Department of Emergency Services at (301) 475-4200, ext. 2125, or email ema@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Ten Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) students were honored May 9 with Ruth Ann Hall Champion Scholar Awards. The Board of Education and the Education Association of Charles County (EACC) presented the awards to the students at the Board of Education’s May 9 meeting. The awards program is for students at the middle-school level and recognizes honorees for a commitment to academics, classroom improvement and modeling positive behavior. School administrators and teachers nominate students for the awards program. The following students were honored. • Franceksa Fiefie, eighth grade, Theodore G. Davis Middle School. • Tyquez Tyson, seventh grade, John Hanson Middle School. • Awa Diakite, eighth grade, Matthew Henson Middle School. • Jacob Amend, seventh grade, Milton M. Somers Middle School. • Anna Shtykhno, eighth grade, Somers. • William Burke, eighth grade, Benjamin Stoddert Middle School. • Ja’Sai Harley, eighth grade, Stoddert. • Jayda Paige, eighth grade, Stoddert. • Zsa Zsa Thomas, seventh grade, Stoddert. • Jamoni Tyson, eighth grade, Stoddert. The award winners are chosen by an EACC committee from a pool of student nominees. The award was established by the EACC as a memorial to Ruth Ann Hall, who had a 20-year career as a teacher in Charles County. Hall is a former EACC president and received The Washington Post’s Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher of the Year award in 1986. During her career with CCPS, Hall taught at Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer and Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy elementary schools, and at Mattawoman Middle School. The award recognizes middle school students in recognition of Hall’s last teaching assignment at the middle-school level. Honorees receive a certificate of recognition and gift card for use at a local bookstore. 

en Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) students were honored May 9 with Ruth Ann Hall Champion Scholar Awards. The Board of Education and the Education Association of Charles County (EACC) presented the awards to the students at the Board of Education’s May 9 meeting. Pictured from left to right are Anna Shtykhno, eighth grade, Milton M. Somers Middle School; Jacob Amend, seventh grade, Somers; Ja’Sai Harley, eighth grade, Benjamin Stoddert Middle School; Zsa Zsa Thomas, seventh grade, Stoddert; Franceksa Fiefie, eighth grade, Theodore G. Davis Middle School; Jayda Paige, eighth grade, Stoddert; William Burke, eighth grade, Stoddert; and Jamoni Tyson, eighth grade, Stoddert. Also pictured is Veronica Golden, vice president of the Education Association of Charles County. Not pictured but also recognized was Matthew Henson Middle School eighth-grade student Awa Diakite and Tyquez Tyson, seventh-grade student at John Hanson Middle School.

Governor Wes Moore today announced a $15 million commitment to minority-led small business lender Lendistry to provide relief to Maryland small businesses. The commitment is the latest investment through the State Small Business Credit Initiative, through which Maryland is deploying up to $198 million in federal relief.

“As the first Community Development Fund Institution to begin offering loans through Maryland’s State Small Business Credit Initiative program, Lendistry will unlock opportunities for small businesses to grow and expand in the state,” said Gov. Moore. “Through this infusion of funds, the state can work with lenders to reach even more businesses that need investment to support their success.”

The initiative is administered by three state agencies through nine programs. Through the Department of Housing and Community Development’s Neighborhood BusinessWorks Loan to Lender program, Lendistry will be able to lend up to $250,000 to small businesses that are owned and operated by Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals; Very Small Businesses; or are in Community Development Financial Institutions Investment Areas.??

“The Neighborhood BusinessWorks program is a great resource to stimulate investment in communities that are prime for revitalization,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “The funds allow us to go above and beyond the department’s regular lending capacity and serve even more businesses across the state.”

Maryland was the first state in the nation to submit its State Small Business Credit Initiative deployment plan to the U.S. Treasury Department, and was one of the first five states to be approved for the funding.

Lendistry is a minority-led small business and commercial real estate lender that is dedicated to providing economic opportunities and progressive growth for borrowers and their communities. In 2022, Lendistry became the nation’s only African American-led Small Business Administration-designated Small Business Lending Company.

Since Lendistry was established in 2015, it has deployed more than $8.9 billion in small business loans and grants across the country, and supported more than 595,000 small businesses. It has allocated more than 74% of the funding to minority-owned businesses.

“Lendistry is committed to giving small businesses the best possible chance at fair and responsible financing they need to grow, and I’m confident this partnership will make a significant impact,” said Lendistry CEO, Everett K. Sands. “State Small Business Credit Initiative programs help compensate for common shortfalls that underserved and undercapitalized business borrowers experience. Combining these programs with our accessible fintech platform will make a positive difference for Maryland communities that have been ready to grow for a long time.”

State Small Business Credit Initiative program funds are also administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce, and the Maryland Technology Development Corporation. To learn more, visit open.maryland.gov/ssbci.

To apply for a loan through Lendistry, go to https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Business/Pages/SSBCI/SSBCI-NBW.aspx#ParticipatingCDFIs.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC), in partnership with the St. Mary’s County Health Department, will host a briefing on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. to share information with the community on the upcoming legalization of cannabis for adult-use in Maryland. This event will be held in the CSMC meeting room in the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. Residents are encouraged to attend in person or to watch the briefing live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) Channel 95 or the SMCG YouTube Channel.

The Board of Health is pleased to announce the following panelists for this event, including:

• William Tilburg, Director, Maryland Cannabis Administration
• Sheriff Steven Hall, St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office
• Dr. Meenakshi Brewster, St. Mary's County Health Officer
• John Houser, Assistant County Attorney, SMCG

These speakers will cover key topics relating to the upcoming legalization of adult-use cannabis in Maryland, including statewide implementation, public safety, public health, and land use/zoning. 

“We know that our residents have questions about this, and how it will impact our community,” said CSMC President, James Randy Guy. “We are thankful to our partners from the State, as well as our own St. Mary’s County Health Department and Sheriff’s Office for taking the time to provide key information to our community about this upcoming transition in Maryland.”

“The legalization of adult-use cannabis has sparked many questions for community members that we hope to answer during this community briefing,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Community health and protecting our youth are key priorities for the St. Mary’s County Health Department as we prepare for this new law.”

Community members are encouraged to submit their questions related to adult-use legalization of cannabis in Maryland through this online form. Questions must be submitted in advance, by 5 p.m. on May 31, 2023. Submitted questions will be compiled and addressed as time permits during the event. For additional details on this event, or for assistance submitting questions through the online form, please contact the St. Mary’s County Health Department at smchd.pr@maryland.gov or by calling (301) 475-4330.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation announces a Tot Lot Playground has been installed at Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park.

The playground is designed for ages 5-12 and allows for children to enjoy a wide range of activities, including climbing, swinging and creative play. The Tot Lot Playground has a user capacity of 83 people and is a total of 1,632 square feet in area.

Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park is located at 10455 Ward Road in Dunkirk. There are many other amenities, such as three multi-use fields, a fishing pier, hiking trails, bathrooms and picnic areas. For more information on Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park visit www.calvertcountymd.gov/WardFarm.

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 Bomb Threats at La Plata High School: On May 15, an anonymous person called the front office of La Plata High School and asked if the school was checked for bombs. The caller then called a local police department and made a bomb threat at the school. It is believed the same person called the school on May 12 and made a similar threat, in addition to threatening other people across the region. The school resource officer (SRO) was notified and initiated an investigation. The calls appear to be random and not directed to anyone in particular; no devices were located. Anyone with information is asked to call M/Cpl. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext. 0475. 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.

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at Westlake High School: On May 15 at 7:30 a.m., two students assaulted another student inside Westlake High School; school administrators were able to separate the students. The student who was assaulted sustained an injury. After the altercation, one of the students damaged several pieces of school equipment and broke out a glass window. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation and has contacted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges. The students also face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to contact PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608.  

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, 2023, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.

The May 29 closure also includes:

• All three St. Mary's County Libraries (Charlotte Hall, Leonardtown, and Lexington Park)
• All three Senior Activity Centers (Garvey, Loffler, and Northern), and there will be no home-delivered meals
• The St. Mary's Transit System (STS)
• Department of Recreation & Parks school programs and facilities

The following SMCG operations will be open on May 29:

• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill (regular hours)
• Great Mills Pool (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• Wellness & Aquatics Center (6 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
• The St. Clements Island Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum (open for visitors from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• The Wicomico Shores Golf Course (open 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.); the Riverview Restaurant (open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

May 15, 2023

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division (CID) is investigating two separate shooting incidents on Saturday and Sunday in Lexington Park.

On Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 6:04 pm, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the report of a shooting at the 21500 block of Wilcutt Street in Lexington Park. A 17-year-old male victim was located suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was transported to a hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

On Sunday, May 14, 2023, at 11:05 pm, deputies responded to the area of Primrose Willow Lane and Creeping Primrose Lane in Lexington Park for the report of shots fired. Shell casings were located on the scene. Later a 22-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to the arm.

The Criminal Investigations Division and Crime Lab responded to both scenes to continue the investigations.

Anyone with information about these cases is asked to contact Detective Allison Mattera at 301-475-4200, ext. 78124 or email allison.mattera@stmaryscountymd.gov or Sgt. Christopher Beyer at 301-475-4200, ext. 78004 or email christopher.beyer@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.

On May 11, 2023, at approximately 8 p.m., deputies from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to a serious crash involving a motorcycle along eastbound Plum Point Road in Huntingtown.

Preliminary investigation revealed, a Calvert County Sheriff’s Deputy was travelling westbound on Plum Point Road when he observed two motorcycles travelling eastbound at a high rate of speed. After the deputy safely made a U-turn, the motorcycles accelerated and were observed passing vehicles on the shoulder. Moments later both motorcycles left the deputy’s sight due to numerous curves and roadway design. While travelling eastbound on Plum Point Road in attempt to locate the motorcycles, the deputy came upon a crash scene located in the 2200 block of Plum Point Road in the area of Ida’s Lane.

Upon arrival at the crash scene, a black Suzuki GSX-R 1000 motorcycle and the operator were located in the grassy shoulder of the roadway.

Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and pronounced the driver, Austin M. Harris, 25 of Lusby, deceased.

Further investigation revealed, the second motorcycle, a yellow custom Suzuki sports bike, operated by Tyler G. King, 26 of Huntingtown, remained at the crash site and provided a witness statement.

At this time, speed and driver error appear to be contributing factors in the collision.

Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Team is continuing the investigation of this collision.  Anyone who may have witnessed this crash or events leading up to it, is asked to please contact Cpl. V. Bortchevsky at vlad.bortchevsky@calvertcountymd.gov or S/DFC J. Hardesty at jeffrey.hardesty@calvertcountymd.gov.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced that, following a jury trial, Leonard Charles Hall, 29, of Lexington Park, MD, was convicted of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree assault, loaded handgun on person, illegal possession of a firearm and illegal possession of ammunition charges for the 2021 death of Valdez Rico Baker III in the Circuit Court of St. Mary’s County.

On June 14, 2021, at approximately 7:05 p.m., St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to a report of an active shooter at the Chancellors Run Regional Park in Great Mills, MD.  Valdez Rico Baker III was found with multiple gunshot wounds, including a headshot wound, and transported to an area trauma center, where he later died due to his injuries.

“The heinous crime of this young man’s murder in one of our community parks was an unspeakably violent act," said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “I hope this verdict brings a measure of closure to Mr. Valdez’s family. I want to thank the members of the jury for their attention throughout the trial and serious consideration and deliberation this week.”

Chief of the Special Victims Unit, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Sarah Proctor, and Chief of the Major Crime Unit, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Jeff Maylor, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Daniel Sidorowicz was the lead investigator for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, who successfully investigated this case.

Mr. Hall will be held without bond pending a sentencing hearing. The maximum penalty for conspiracy first-degree murder is life in prison.

The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided over the case.

During the week of May 1 – May 7, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 2,107 calls for service throughout the community.

Damaged Property: 23-30613

On May 1, 2023, Deputy Bowen responded to Kings Landing Road at the BGE Exelon radio tower in Huntingtown, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised an unknown suspect (s) cut the barbed wired fence surrounding the tower. The estimated value of damaged property is $200.00.

Property Destruction: 23-31079

On May 3, 2023, Deputy Lee responded to Hallowing Point Park located at 4755 Hallowing Point Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of property destruction. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect (s) vandalized the men’s bathroom and the gender-neutral bathroom at the park. The estimated value of damaged property is $3,000.00.

Theft: 23-31459

On May 4, 2023, Det. Wells responded to Prince Frederick Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram located at 265 Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for theft of a motor vehicle. Investigation revealed two unknown suspect (s) stole a gray 2022 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat, two door coupe from the dealership’s parking lot. The estimated value of stolen property is $56,995.00.

Theft: 23-31802

On May 5, 2023, Deputy Gadwill received report of a theft from a vehicle. The complainant advised sometime between 9 p.m. on April 26 and 7 a.m. on April. 27, items were stolen from an unlocked vehicle parked at a residence in the 800 block of Parran Road in St. Leonard.  Amongst the stolen items were a wallet with $2,506 in US currency, a HALO Bolt Ultimate Jump Starter and Air Compressor, and a pair of diamond gold earrings. The estimated value of stolen property is $ 3,230.94.

Theft: 23-31784

On May 5, 2023, Deputy Daily responded to 85 Hospital Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between March 1^st and May 5^th, an unknown suspect (s) stole the victim’s license plate expiration sticker. The estimated value of stolen property is $25.00.

ARRESTS

On May 8, 2023, Deputy Tavares initiated a traffic stop in the area Rousby Hall Road and HG Trueman Road in Lusby, for a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the driver, Delante Orlando Rash Murphy, 31 of Bryans Road, a strong odor of burnt was cannabis emitting from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed multiple individually packaged containers of suspected cannabis (83.1 grams total), three tear-off bags containing a white powdery substance (suspected cocaine totaling 24.5 grams) and 2 Ecstasy pills were located inside the vehicle. Murphy was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

On May 4, 2023, Deputy Claggett initiated a traffic stop on Church Street in Prince Frederick, for a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the driver, Karla Yamith Rodriguez, 33 of Prince Frederick, Deputy Claggett was advised Rodriguez was operating a stolen vehicle and was wanted on an open warrant through Prince George’s County. Rodriguez was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where she was charged with Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle and Theft: $25,000 to Under $100,000.00.

On May 4, 2023, Cpl. Robshaw responded to the front parking lot of Calvert High School located at 520 Fox Run Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for report of a suspicious vehicle. Contact was made with the driver, Keon Gervonte Hall, 18 of Prince Frederick, who had been previously trespassed indefinitely from the property. Further investigation revealed 1.5 ounces of cannabis was recovered from inside the vehicle. Hall was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.

On May 2, 2023, Deputy Mister and DFC Krueger initiated a felony traffic stop on a reported stolen vehicle in the area of Rt. 260 and Wesley Stinnett Blvd. in Chesapeake Beach. Contact was made with the occupants of the vehicle, Aleija Leevon Everette, 25 of Riverdale, Christopher Antonio Adams Jr., 18 of Severn, and Tiease Florence Awkward, 35 of Riverdale. All of the occupants were taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle and Unauthorized Removal of a Motor Vehicle.

DUI Arrests for the week of May 1 thru May 7

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 Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is committed to transparency and providing accurate information to the public regarding recent events at Running Hare Vineyard (Running Hare) in Prince Frederick. The BOCC have not voted to cancel any events at Running Hare.

Running Hare is not compliant with zoning requirements and several structures and electrical work have been installed on the property without permits or inspections. The county has been working with Running Hare for several years in attempt to bring the establishment into compliance and continues to make every effort to work with Running Hare to meet safety standards and allow for events to be held that comply with all applicable laws, regulations and agricultural preservation covenants. Despite the efforts made by the county, required permits and inspections have not been fully executed.

Running Hare is located on property that was voluntarily submitted to be permanently preserved as an agricultural preservation district in 1983. Agricultural Preservation Districts (APDs) earn money upon the sale of Transferrable Development Rights (TDRs) and receive tax benefits; TDRs are important to help maintain the county’s agricultural character and heritage. In exchange, allowed uses and public events must keep within the county’s agricultural heritage. APDs may be approved by the Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board to hold up to two public events per year. Since there are open violations on the property, no public events of any kind are permitted; currently only private events can be held in the property’s event building. There is no limit to the number of private events allowed.

Land use regulations help to protect the environment and Calvert County’s cultural heritage by ensuring projects and activities are carried out in a manner that preserves natural resources and promotes the agricultural legacy of our county.

Although the regulatory process can be perceived as burdensome, permitting and inspections are important to protect public safety by ensuring that buildings, structures and activities comply with laws, codes and regulations in order to prevent accidents, fires and other hazards. Permitting and inspections ensure that construction projects are structurally sound to prevent collapse that could endanger patrons and staff.

It is deeply unfortunate that this situation has impacted the Hospice of the Chesapeake fundraiser. We are doing all we can to help ensure that Hospice will hold a successful event at the Huntingtown Fire Department and support their mission to provide crucial care to patients and families throughout our community.

County staff and the Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board have made extensive efforts since June 2020 to work with the property owners of Running Hare to bring them into compliance and allow for events to be held that comply with all applicable laws, regulations and agricultural preservation covenants.

Below is a timeline of Calvert County’s efforts to bring Running Hare into compliance:

Sept. 13, 2019    A fire destroyed the onsite wine production facility that had been constructed without permits or inspections. Running Hare made no contact with the county regarding alternatives for onsite wine production until the county staff inquired in June 2020.

June 11, 2020     Planning & Zoning and Economic Development staff met with Running Hare to discuss many advertised uses/events that were not agriculture related. Running Hare was advised they must get approval from the Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board (APAB). For advertised uses, site plan approval and permits for structures and uses were required. 

July 20, 2020     Economic Development staff sent a follow-up email to Running Hare to see if they had submitted to get on APAB’s agenda. The application was received after the APAB deadline, however Planning and Zoning (P&Z) staff requested to add it to the agenda.

Aug. 3, 2020      The APAB voted to defer making a final decision and provided an interim approval of up to three (3) months or up to 50 events or until the APAB rendered a final decision. This was to allow for additional board members to attend and for additional time to deliberate on the application / provided materials.

1.      The application was for retroactive approval to host more than three (3) public events on an APD. The property is located within APD 83-05. The applicant requested to hold an unlimited number of public events. The application stated that the events would range in size from 20 to 5,000 participants. The types of events described in the application were concerts, movies, festivals, educational seminars, charitable functions and other similar events.

2.      Staff had been waiting on, and working with, Running Hare since June 2020 but did not receive an application until the deadline for the August APAB agenda.

Aug. 26, 2020      Code Enforcement Officers completed inspection of property and discovered many new unpermitted structures and electrical violations.

Sept. 9, 2020       Notice of Violation was sent advising property owner that a red-lined site plan showing all new unpermitted structures must be submitted, permits must be submitted for all and inspections approved for all.

Sept. 15, 2020     The APAB deferred decision until the October 2020 meeting at Running Hare’s request. This was due the inability of Running Hare to attend the meeting; the approval remained in effect.

Sept. 21, 2020     Held a meeting on site between the Health Department, Inspections & Permits, Code Enforcement, P&Z, and Special Events Coordinator to discuss Governor’s orders not being followed and processes for permits and special events.

Oct. 5, 2020         At the Oct. 5 APAB meeting, the Board voted on the application. The decision was made to allow Running Hare to hold a maximum of 50 events from date of approval through Dec. 31, 2020. The events were limited to those meeting the definition of agritourism as defined in the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance and were further required to promote local agricultural products / activities.

a.       Running Hare was dismayed at the agritourism stipulation and wanted to know what qualified. The list of events was too extensive to discuss at the meeting. Only drive-in movies were directly discussed which the APAB indicated did not qualify and could not continue.

b.      Running Hare indicated they would pursue further clarification at the next APAB meeting.

Oct. 13, 2020        Permits were submitted for production building and brewery pavilion; both applications were incomplete. Comments were provided to applicants engineer.

Nov. 2, 2020         The APAB reviewed the clarification as well as the various violations/current status of Running Hare’s operation. The APAB voted to revoke their prior approval and prohibit further public events until all violations are remedied. The decision of the APAB was effective immediately.

Nov. 6, 2020         A stop work order was issued for holding unpermitted public events while under a Notice of Violation.

May 12, 2021        Onsite meeting with county representatives at Running Hare to discuss outstanding permit and inspection requirements.

June 2021              County received the first complete permit application submittal to address violations. To date, the permits are being held by Environmental Health (EH) pending approval of the sewage disposal system.

July 2, 2021          Onsite meeting with county representatives at Running Hare to discuss outstanding permit and inspection requirements.

March 10, 2022     Onsite meeting with county representatives at Running Hare to discuss outstanding permit and inspection requirements.

March 2022           Email from COA Barrett to Mark Willis states that EH notified them in March 2022 that permanent restroom facilities are required. In 2021, EH staff told Running Hare that the 2021 season would be the last year they would allow portable facilities to be used.

Aug. 11, 2022       Onsite meeting with county representatives at Running Hare to discuss outstanding permit and inspection requirements. At this meeting, EH staff told Running Hare that a design professional needed to be hired to design the septic system. It wasn’t until the February 2023 meeting that Running Hare asked for guidance on what they needed to do for the septic system design.

Nov. 13, 2022       Final approval given for the red-lined site plan. As of March 2023, required permits and inspections had not been completed.*

Feb. 8, 2023          Meeting held at county office to discuss outstanding permit and inspection requirements. Attendees included Economic Development staff, Planning & Zoning Director, County Administrator, staff from the Environmental Health Department, Public Works Acting Director and Running Hare. Running Hare stated that they were leasing space at the Calvert County Industrial Park (CCIP) for their wine production. This is in direct conflict with the farm winery definition requiring the wine production to be done onsite. The space at CCIP was occupied without permits or inspections.

March 9, 2023       Zoning enforcement posted a stop work order for hosting public events without zoning compliance and APAB approval. A second stop work order was posted for the wine tasting pavilion and beer garden since wine and beer are not being produced onsite as required by the zoning regulations.

March 16, 2023     Deputy Director of Zoning and Chief Enforcement Officer completed inspections at Running Hare Vineyard. The inspection was to view the production area and equipment used to process the wine and beer. An inspection was also completed of the space occupied for wine storage in the Industrial Park (unpermitted). Running Hare was advised to submit a permit application to occupy the space as soon as possible and until they were completely compliant no further public events could be held.

March 16, 2023     SPR-142957 Redlined pre-concept site plan submitted for adding a bathroom trailer. County staff provided comments on April 13, 2023.

April 2, 2023         Sanitary construction permits submitted. Comments sent from EH to COA Barrett on April 11, 2023. The permit application did not include design calculations for the system, only plans.

May 3, 2023          P&Z staff met with Running Hare to discuss the status of the violations, stop work order and the fact that only private events could be held onsite. Running Hare asked if they would need to cancel the Hospice event scheduled for May 12, 2023. Staff explained that this was a public event and could not be held due to the stop work order being in place.

May 4, 2023          Sewage disposal plans & calculations submitted to the Environmental Health Department.

May 9, 2023          EH meet with MDE staff to discuss the flow calculations for the sewage disposal system and found that the design flow did not reflect the maximum daily flow.

^*Site Plan review process from submittal through approval:

April 14, 2021       Red-lined site plan submitted to include structures installed without permits.

o   Review comments provided in May 2021 and revised plans were then submitted by engineer on Aug. 20, 2021.

o   Second submittal review comments provided in Sept. 13, 2021 and revised plans were submitted by their engineer in Nov. 15, 2021.

o   Third submittal review comments provided in Dec. 7, 2021 and revised plans submitted by their engineer on Jan. 18, 2022.

o   Fourth submittal review comments provided in Feb. 5, 2022 and revised plans submitted March 1, 2022.

o   Fifth submittal review comments provided March 15, 2022 and revised plans submitted March 28, 2022.

o   All comments were addressed by April 2022, excluding Environmental Health Department comments since they are requiring permanent restroom facilities.

Patrol Officer Recovers Loaded Firearm in Vehicle During Traffic Stop: On May 9 at 2:09 p.m., a patrol officer initiated a traffic stop in the area of Smallwood Drive and Lancaster Circle. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer detected the strong odor of marijuana. Further investigation revealed a passenger in the car was in possession of a firearm. The driver was issued citations and the passenger, Atemkeng Henrick Bezezuh, 31, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with transporting a firearm illegally. On May 9, a district court commissioner released Bezezuh on personal recognizance. Officer Gordon is investigating.

Patrol Officer Recovers Stolen Car and Arrests Driver: On May 10 at 8:04 a.m., a patrol officer was conducting a patrol check in the area of Mall Circle when he observed a KIA with a broken out window. Upon approaching the car, the officer observed the ignition had significant damage and had been reported stolen from a nearby county. The occupant of the vehicle, Jajuan Malik Cobb, 21, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with theft and malicious destruction of a vehicle. Further investigation revealed Cobb was arrested on May 4 after being stopped in a stolen car he was driving. In that case, he was released from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance. In this most current case, a judge ordered Cobb could be released on personal recognizance as long as he meets the criteria for electronic monitoring. Officer Hopp is investigating. 

Neighborhood Enforcement Team Recovers Stolen Vehicle and AR Pistol: On May 4 at 2:31 p.m., members of the Neighborhood Enforcement Team were in the area of High Street and St. Ignatius Drive in Waldorf conducting an investigation when they observed a Hyundai, which had been reported stolen from another county. Officers initiated a traffic stop at which time one occupant jumped out of the car and fled. The driver, Jajuan Malik Cobb, 21, of Waldorf, and a front seat passenger, Desean Cobb, 19, of Waldorf, remained in the car. Desean Cobb was in possession of a loaded AR pistol with a 30 round magazine. He was arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm and stolen vehicle charges. At the time of his arrest, Desean Cobb was already on supervised release in connection with an unrelated criminal charge that occurred previously. He is currently being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center in connection with this case. Jajuan Cobb was charged with stolen vehicle charges. On May 4, a district court commissioner ordered Jajuan Cobb could be released on personal recognizance. PFC Mayhew is investigating.

School Resource Officer Investigating Report of Armed Suspect: On May 10 at 2:30 p.m., administrators at Westlake High School were alerted by two students that a male had pointed a firearm at them outside of the school. Officers responded and canvassed the area but did not find anyone matching the description of the suspect. A preliminary investigation showed the students had arranged to meet an individual after school near the baseball field. When the students arrived at the field, an unknown male approached and produced a firearm; the students fled. A school resource officer has initiated an investigation. Anyone with additional details is asked to call PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608. 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.

On Tuesday, May 9, Commissioners reviewed the proposed Fiscal 2024 budget and voted on items to add/delete for next year for the General Fund. They also discussed proposed changes to the Capital Improvement Program budget.

Additional items include:

• A $500 take-home bonus for all full-time employees, to be paid later this year.
• A new Communications Coordinator for the Board of County Commissioners and Security Technology Specialist for county facilities.
• $2.5 million for county road overlay improvements over the next two years.
• Funding for Commissioner Cares scholarships at the College of Southern Maryland; University of Maryland Incentive award program, to secure live entertainment at Regency Furniture Stadium; a pop-up park at the Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center, and a farm equipment rental program.
• Additional funding for the Military Alliance Council, Charles County Charitable Trust, Maryland Veterans Museum, and Tourism promotion at the Maryland Association of Counties.
• Acquisition of laptops, bags, and cables for Emergency Services EMTs and paramedics to use while on duty.

The public can visit the Charles County Government’s budget web page for links to all of the documents included in the proposed Fiscal 2024 Budget. The Fiscal 2024 budget is scheduled for final adoption on Tuesday, May 16.

Open Session Briefings

• Planning and Growth Management staff briefed Commissioners on the project location map for the spring 2023 water and sewer category cycle, and Commissioners scheduled a public hearing to receive comments both virtually and in person at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 13.
• Commissioners discussed the process for selecting candidates who applied for a seat on the Charter Board that was established in March 2023. Commissioners will begin interviewing applicants later this month and after nominees are appointed, they will be seated and begin meetings in June 2023, as directed in the Charter Board Resolution.

Approval Items

Commissioners adopted a resolution for the 2023 Update of the Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan.

Work Session and Public Hearing on Wednesday, May 10

• Commissioners held a work session on the proposed Bryans Road Sub Area Plan. Commissioners had previously received a briefing on the plan in April. This 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. Commissioners voted to schedule a public hearing for Tuesday, June 27 at 6 p.m.
• Commissioners reviewed local legislative proposals submitted by the public and voted to keep the record open until Friday, June 2 with a work session scheduled on Tuesday, June 13.

Next Commissioners Session: May 16-17, 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. 

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Donine Carrington Martin sentenced Virginia Marie Stone, 46, to 10 years, with all but 8 years suspended, in prison for Neglect of a Vulnerable Adult in the First Degree. Stone will serve on supervised probation for five years upon release.

On March 3, 2023, Stone entered a guilty plea to the aforementioned charge in Charles County Circuit Court.

On September 30, 2020, officers responded to the 17400 block of Audrey Road in Cobb Island in reference to a subject not breathing. Upon arrival, officers found the 18-year-old victim, Elizabeth Stone, unresponsive and not breathing in her bed. The victim appeared emaciated and was only partially clothed. Feces and maggots were located on the victim’s body, as well as large sores on her lower extremity. Further, the victim’s room appeared unkept and unsanitary. Unfortunately, the victim was officially pronounced deceased by Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

An investigation revealed that the victim suffered from an underlying flesh-eating disease that limited her mobility and required outside medical care, as well as care from her mother. Stone reported to officers that prior to their arrival, the victim told Stone that she was not feeling well and requested a glass of milk. When Stone returned to the room, the victim was beginning to breathe heavily, which continued until Stone called 911. Due to the horrific severity that the victim was discovered, it was determined that Stone did not give her proper care for years preceding her death. 

The assistant state’s attorney prosecuting the case requested the maximum penalty of 10 years, stating, “I’ve been doing this for a long time, and I can say without a doubt this is the worst case I’ve ever seen” citing that “this was a chronic situation that happened over time and, frankly, must have been torturous.” She furthered that parents are supposed to protect their children, but this case was “horrific, tragic, [and] awful.”

The Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism invites the community to attend the much-anticipated ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new multi-purpose synthetic turf field at White Plains Regional Park. The event will take place on Thursday, May 25 (rain date: June 1) from 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. at White Plains Regional Park (1015 St. Charles Parkway, White Plains).

The event will host food trucks, recreational activities, demos, and giveaways. The ceremonial ribbon cutting is scheduled for 6 p.m. The multi-purpose synthetic turf will be used for football, soccer, field hockey, and boy's and girl's lacrosse games.

The Program Open Space Grant and other local funding provided funding for the turf field. The hours for White Plains Regional Park are 8 a.m. to dusk. For more information on White Plains Regional Park, click here.

For more information, visit www.CharlesCountyParks.com or contact the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism at 301-932-3470 or CCPR@CharlesCountyMD.gov. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning invites county residents to participate in the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance update process. The public is invited to submit comments during each public comment window. The draft ordinance and a schedule of meetings and public comment periods are available online at www.calvertcountymd.gov/ZoningOrdinanceUpdate.

Public comment opens May 10, 2023, for the following articles:

·         Article 3 – Zoning Map

·         Article 4 – Farm and Forest District (FFD) / Agricultural Preservation District (APD)

·         Article 5 – Rural Residential

·         Article 6 – Residential

·         Article 7 – Commercial

·         Article 8 - Industrial

The Calvert County Zoning Ordinance regulates land usage, as many aspects of land use can impact adjoining neighborhoods, public facilities and overall county development as part of the effort to promote health, safety and welfare of Calvert County residents, as mandated in the Comprehensive Plan (adopted in 2019 and amended in 2022).

County staff and consultants conducted a zoning analysis of existing conditions and began working on developing zoning recommendations and a draft ordinance that would bring the Zoning Ordinance into compliance with the new Comprehensive Plan.

Public comment may be submitted by email to ZOupdate@calvertcountymd.gov or by mail Attn: ZO Update, 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

For more information contact Will Hager at 410-535-1600 ext., 8553 or Will.Hager@calvertcountymd.gov or  Rachel O’Shea at 410-535-1600 ext. ,2339 or  Rachel.OShea@calvertcountymd.gov

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.

Bag of Suspected Cannabis and Vape Device Recovered from Student at Piccowaxen Middle School: On May 10 at 12:30 p.m., a school administrator at Piccowaxen Middle School was investigating a report of a student vaping. A bag of suspected cannabis and a vape device were recovered from the student. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation and will contact the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges. The student also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Caballero at 301-609-3282 ext. 0573.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) was accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) in 2001 and has since earned the highest rating of Excellence. Established in 1658, the CCSO is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States. For more information, visit www.ccso.us

Warrant Issued for Suspect Wanted in Connection with Home Invasion and Domestic-Related Assault: On May 7 at 6:10 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of Seldovia Drive in Indian Head for the report of a domestic-related assault in progress. A preliminary investigation showed the suspect, Eugene Valentino Green, 33 of Waldorf, broke into a former acquaintance’s residence and assaulted a woman. Green pushed the victim to the ground and began strangling her. A child who was in the house intervened, and Green fled. Officers canvassed the area and are seeking Green’s whereabouts. A warrant is on file charging Green with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and other related charges. Green is 5’6” and weighs approximately 140 lbs.

Anyone with information about Green’s whereabouts is asked to call 301-932-2222. 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. Officer Marvin is investigating.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County are pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica Andritz, JD as the new Director for the Department of Land Use & Growth Management (LUGM).

“After a nationwide search, we are very pleased to welcome Ms. Andritz to our team,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy. “We look forward to working with her and are confident that the skills and experience she brings to the table will benefit our community.”

Andritz graduated from Wittenberg University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Studies and Ethics. She then earned her Juris Doctor from the Georgetown University Law Center. While earning her law degree, she worked for the U.S. Census Bureau where she was responsible for data analysis and reporting. She also served as a legislative aide in the U.S. Congress. The summer before she graduated, she was stationed in Darmstadt, Germany with the Army JAG Corps where she worked in the Legal Assistance office and served as a victim-witness liaison. 

Upon graduation from law school, Jessica was employed by O'Malley, Miles, Nylen & Gilmore, PA and later Andrews, Bongar, Gormley & Clagett, PA where she represented local developers and served as counsel for Southern Maryland based HOAs.

In 2017, Jessica left private practice and joined the County Attorney's Office for Charles County where she provided counsel for the Department of Planning & Growth Management (PGM). In 2019, Jessica served as the Acting Deputy Director for PGM and in 2022, she began serving as the Assistant Chief and Legal Counsel for the Planning Division. During her tenure, Jessica also participated in a one-year cohort as part of the Government Alliance on Race & Equity.

"I am excited about the opportunity to serve in this new role,” said Andritz. “As the Director of Land Use & Growth Management, I am looking forward to supporting the initiatives outlined by the Commissioners and working with our staff and constituents to articulate a future vision for St. Mary's County."

For more information on LUGM, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov/lugm.

###

CCSO and Members of U.S. Marshals Capital Area Regional Task Force Baltimore Locate and Arrest Fugitive: On May 8, members of the CCSO and U.S. Capital Area Regional Task Force located Steven Richard Davis, Jr., 34, of Newburg, who had open warrants including failure to register as a sex offender with the CCSO’s Sex Offender Registry as he is required to do by law and failure to appear in court. On May 9, a judge ordered Davis to be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. PFC Rickard investigated. 

On Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 7:39 am, St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Patrol Deputies were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Point Lookout Road (Route 5) and Moakley Street in Leonardtown. Deputies arrived on scene and observed a head-on style motor vehicle collision with one operator unresponsive and trapped. Due to the severity of the crash, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene and continued the investigation.

Preliminary investigation determined that a 2022 Nissan Altima was being operated by Wendy Ricardo Laurent, age 28 of New Hampshire. Laurent was traveling southbound on Point Lookout Road in the area of Moakley Street when she crossed the center divider line into northbound traffic and struck a 2007 Jeep Patriot, being operated by Matthew Scott Dement, age 48 of Great Mills, head on.

As the Nissan Altima and Jeep Patriot collided, the vehicles began to rotate counterclockwise, at which time the rear of the Altima was struck by a 2020 Ford F-450 with an attached equipment trailer, operated by Justin Dominic Morgan, age 23 of Lexington Park.

Dement was flown to a regional medical center for incapacitating injuries. Laurent was transported to a local hospital, listed in stable condition. Morgan signed a refusal for care at the scene.

At this time, alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be contributing factors in the crash.

 On Friday, March 24th, Baltimore City and County announced that they were considering accepting at least 675,000 gallons of toxic water from the East Palestine, Ohio, railroad chemical disaster. The toxic waste was to ultimately be sent to the beleaguered Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant. Immediately, the delegates spoke out against this proposal and began contacting various state and federal agencies and federal, state, and local officials to stop this from occurring. The EPA tried to strongarm Baltimore City and County into accepting this shipment. While the delegates are grateful the shipment was stopped by Baltimore City in March, it seems that plans have changed. Toxic wastewater from the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, will be shipped to Baltimore after all, but the plan has changed since city leaders originally rejected the water. The Maryland Department of the Environment said that Norfolk Southern Railway is once again planning to ship that water to the Clean Harbors Baltimore facility for treatment. But this time, they said it will be shipped back to the Clean Harbors facility in Cleveland for disposal. Baltimore County Councilmembers said they have not been briefed on the plan and have also expressed concern about this decision. Delegate Nawrocki said, "We have the right to be concerned. Baltimore is not equipped to handle this treatment, especially when the Back River Plant has failed inspection multiple times.” Delegate Szeliga agreed saying, “The waste is coming to the infamous Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant that had a 2-alarm fire just last month. This plant has seen frequent sewer overflows into the river which eventually makes its way to our most precious natural resource - the Chesapeake Bay. We are still completely opposed to this plan.” The State of Maryland took over the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant recently because of its dysfunction. The delegates were also told that the Dundalk community last year reported seeing “black excrement” floating around in the river from the failures of the plant. The delegates are empathetic towards the people in Ohio who live near the train derailment where many toxic chemicals were released and burned near their homes. But the decision by the EPA to bring the toxic wastewater to Maryland is still shocking. The delegates ask for strong accountability measures to be implemented, including assurances that the waste is contained and will not be leaked into the public sanitary sewer system.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is preparing for the end of the federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) declaration for COVID-19 on May 11, 2023, as well as the termination of other national COVID-19 related measures over the next several months. While addressing ongoing COVID-19 infection and impact remains a significant public health priority, the end of the PHE and other national measures will affect resources and programs locally. Below are changes that you can expect as well as links to resources.
 
Local Updates

• SMCHD Operations
  • COVID-19 testing will be available Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub in Lexington Park by appointment only.
  • COVID-19 vaccines will be available on Tuesdays and Friday at the SMCHD Main Office in Leonardtown by appointment only.
  • Beginning July 1, 2023, SMCHD will bill health insurance for COVID-19 test collection AND COVID-19 vaccine administration. Community members will not be turned away for inability to pay.
  • Home test kits and KN95 masks will continue to be available for pick up by community members at the St. Mary’s County Public Libraries and the health department main office while supplies last.
• SMCHD will no longer analyze COVID-19 data at the local level. For updates on COVID-19 data, please visit the Maryland Department of Health’s new COVID-19 data page or the CDC. Data metrics will continue to be updated weekly in alignment with other public health reporting.
• SMCHD in partnership with WellCheck will continue to assess the impact of post-COVID conditions (“Long COVID”) in St. Mary’s County - Residents previously diagnosed with COVID-19 are asked to complete this brief, anonymous survey. 

State Updates

• The MDGOVAX Call Center Services has transitioned to 2-1-1 Maryland. Marylanders can receive information and referrals regarding COVID-19 resources by calling 2-1-1 or texting your zip code to 898 211. STOP to end.
• Starting in April 2023, Maryland began making Medicaid eligibility reviews again. Not everyone will be up for renewal at the same time. These renewals will take place over 12 months. Learn more about the Maryland Medicaid Check-In 2023 here.
  • What you need to do:
    • Log in to your account at MarylandHealthConnection.gov and update your contact information.
    • Watch for communications from Maryland Health Connection. When you get your notice, you will have 45 days to respond.
    • Renew your coverage or enroll in a private plan when you receive your notice.
  • For more information or help navigating, contact the St. Mary’s County Health Department at 301-475-4330 and ask to speak to a Medicaid Specialist.

National Updates

• Coverage for COVID-19 testing 
  • Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in Part B will continue to have coverage without cost sharing for laboratory-conducted COVID-19 tests when ordered by a provider, but their current access to free over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests will end.
  • The requirement for private insurance companies to cover COVID-19 tests without cost sharing, both for OTC and laboratory tests, will end. However, coverage may continue if plans choose to continue to include it.
  • State Medicaid programs must provide coverage without cost sharing for COVID-19 testing until September 30, 2024, after which coverage may vary by state.
  • Dependent on supply and resources, the US Government may continue to distribute free COVID-19 tests from the Strategic National Stockpile through the United States Postal Service, states, and other community partners. Pending resource availability, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Increasing Community Access to Testing (ICATT) program will continue working to ensure continued equitable access to testing for uninsured individuals and areas of high social vulnerability through pharmacies and community-based sites.
• Vaccines will remain free for everyone when the public health emergency ends. As long as the supply of federally purchased vaccines lasts, COVID-19 vaccines will remain free.
• SNAP Benefits returned to the eligible amount a household of your size received before the pandemic crisis at the end of February 2023.
  • Click here for local food resources
  • For more information on SNAP Benefits contact the St. Mary’s County Department of Social Services at (240) 895-7000.

 “While we continue to offer some services related to COVID-19 infection and monitor for new emerging variants, the change in federal resources ahead will affect local COVID-related functions and some other programs that residents were able to access during the pandemic,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “We are dedicated to ongoing work with our partners to address other community health issues, including mental health, substance use, and post-COVID conditions.”
 
For more information about COVID-19, please visit our new consolidated COVID-19 webpage smchd.org/covid-19/.

High School Student Falls Ill After Inhaling Suspected Cannabis from Vape: On May 9 at 10:35 a.m., a student at North Point High School became ill after inhaling suspected cannabis from a vape pen while at school. The student was transported to a hospital for treatment. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation. Parents are urged to talk with their children about the dangers of inhaling or ingesting unknown substances. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Cpl. Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0580.

Patrol Officer Recovers Loaded Firearm during Traffic Stop: On May 8 at 7:13 p.m., a patrol officer initiated a traffic stop in the area of Smallwood Drive and Stone Avenue in Waldorf. During the traffic stop, the officer observed a firearm inside the car. The occupants of the car, Abraham Micah Evans, Jr., 20, of Greenbelt, and Eric Da'Shawn Talley, 20 of White Plains, were arrested and charged with transporting a loaded firearm in a vehicle, illegal possession of a firearm, and other related charges. On May 9, a district court commissioner released both Evans and Talley from the Charles County Detention Center on a $1,500 unsecured bond. Cpl. Morrison is investigating.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary's County Public Schools (SMCPS) is pleased to announce registration for Kindergarten for the 2023–2024 school year. All schools will hold open registration beginning Tuesday, May 9, 2023, which will continue throughout the summer. 

Parents of children who will be five years old by September 1, 2023, should register at the school assigned to their physical address during the open enrollment period.

Parent(s)/Legal Guardian(s) may go to the school assigned to their legal address to complete the registration paperwork.  Children are not required to be present for registration.  Required documentation includes evidence of birth, proof of residency, a copy of the child’s immunization record, and any court papers regarding custody of the minor child.  Parent(s)/Legal Guardian(s) must also bring photo identification when registering their child.

Each elementary school will conduct open enrollment for the children residing in their zone. Information regarding which school serves your residential area is provided by the Department of Capital Planning at SMCPS - Find a School by your address or 301-475-4256, option 6.  You do not need to make an appointment to register a child. 

Documentation which indicates the current physical address of the child will be accepted as proof of residence.  Proof of residence will include, but is not limited to, one of the following:

1. Mortgage/deed/rental agreement with 911 address assignment;
2. Current utility bill with parent/legal guardian name,  911 address of residence, and service address (post office box is not acceptable, wireless phone bills are not acceptable); and,
3. Patuxent River Naval Base housing form NOW-NATC-1110-1/15, Assignment to Public Quarters, which identifies bona fide residence in St. Mary's County.

Parent(s)/Legal Guardian(s) not intending to register an appropriately aged child for kindergarten must obtain a waiver from the St. Mary's County Public Schools Department of Student Services.  It is not necessary for children enrolled in Head Start or Pre-Kindergarten in the public schools to register again.

Additional Kindergarten information can be found at SMCPS - Kindergarten Registration

Additional Early Entrance to Kindergarten Information can be found at SMCPS Early Entrance to Kindergarten

Questions about Kindergarten Registration may be directed to Kate Weaver, Supervisor of Student Services at 301-475-5511, ext.32150.

Questions about Early Entrance to Kindergarten may be directed to Jamie Pepper, Supervisor of Instruction/Elementary Programs at 301-475-5511, ext. 32123.

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $824,000 in federal funding for the Maryland Department of Transportation to improve Maryland’s scenic roads. This funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration’s National Scenic Byways Program will support updated byway facilities, safety enhancements, and historical and cultural information markers along the state’s historic roads, including: Baltimore’s Historic Charles Street, the Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, and the Religious Freedom Byway. Maryland also contains portions of the Historical National Road and the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Byway.

“Maryland’s scenic byways allow residents and visitors alike to explore our diverse geography and treasured cultural heritage. With these funds, Maryland will be able to make necessary improvements to the safety, accessibility, and recreational quality of these byways across our state. We will continue working to secure funds like these that preserve Maryland’s historic roads and modernize our infrastructure,” said the lawmakers.

“Maryland has tremendous stories to tell across our scenic byways – stories of our state’s history, culture, recreational opportunity and environmental beauty,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “This grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation will help us and our partners at the Maryland Office of Tourism tell those stories, bringing new visitors to our state and instilling great pride in our residents. We thank USDOT for the award, and appreciate the continued support of Maryland’s Congressional delegation.”

“Transpor-tourism is on the forefront of a synergistic approach of Maryland agencies, and this grant from USDOT will help us expand our outreach and provide greater opportunity for visitors to discover the history and beauty of our state,” said Liz Fitzsimmons, Managing Director of the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism and Film.

Created in 1991, the National Scenic Byways Program aims to recognize, preserve, and enhance selected roads with scenic, historic, cultural, natural recreational, and archeological significance throughout the United States. The Reviving America’s Scenic Byways Act, co-sponsored by both Senator Cardin and Senator Van Hollen and signed into law in September 2019, was the first step toward reinvigorating the program, and the lawmakers worked to invest in this program through new funding in fiscal year 2021 and increased fiscal year 2022 appropriations.

May 9, 2023:

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Alcohol Enforcement Unit recently conducted a series of alcohol compliance checks at 12 businesses in central and southern St. Mary’s County. Eleven of the establishments were found to be compliant, while one business failed to ask an underage person for identification.

The covert compliance checks were conducted on Friday, April 21, 2023, at 3 pm starting in Leonardtown for the second annual Leonardtown Luau, utilizing an underage individual. The 20-year-old was wearing plain clothes, carried no identification and was directed to enter each establishment to order an alcoholic beverage at the bar or while seated at a table.

Of the 12 businesses visited, 11 (92 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: Antoinette’s Garden in Leonardtown; Brudergarten in Leonardtown; Olde Town Pub in Leonardtown; Slice House in Leonardtown; The Slice House II Go in Leonardtown; Social Coffeehouse & Speakeasy in Leonardtown; Sweetbay Restaurant and Bar in Leonardtown; The Rex in Leonardtown; Beacon Liquors in Callaway; Tacos Hacienda in Callaway and Cooks Liquors and Groceries in Park Hall.

The one business found to be in violation was The Front Porch in Leonardtown.

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

Detectives Investigating Homicide on Sedgemore Place in Bryans Road, MD: On May 8 at approximately 3:30 a.m., officers responded to the 2900 block of Sedgemore Place in Bryans Road, MD, for the report of a domestic assault in progress. Prior to arrival, officers received a report for the sound of gunshots in the same area. When officers arrived, they located an adult male near the intersection of Sedgemore Place and Matthews Road with gunshot wounds. Officers rendered first aid until paramedics arrived. The male was transported to a hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. He has been identified as Carl Francis Braxton, 30, of Bryans Road. A preliminary investigation revealed Braxton was reported to have assaulted his girlfriend inside their townhouse. The woman was able to flee and encountered a man who was walking his dog. According to witnesses, Braxton, approached and threatened to harm the man. Braxton continued walking aggressively toward the man, at which time the man, who has a permit to carry a firearm, produced a gun and shot Braxton. The man remained on the scene until officers arrived. He was transported to a police station and subsequently released pending further investigation. At this time there is no indication any of the involved subjects were known to the man. Detectives are consulting with the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Detective Johnson at 301-609-6453. Tipsters wanting 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.

On May 8 at 11:15 a.m., two Westlake High School students were involved in a physical altercation during lunchtime. The School Resource Officer and school administrators responded to the cafeteria and separated the students. At that time several other students began acting disorderly, causing further disturbance, however officers and school administrators were able to reestablish order within the school. One student was treated by a school nurse for injuries. The two students who were involved in the physical altercation will face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608.

The Calvert County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to reducing the number of alcohol related fatalities in support of the Maryland Highway Safety Office's "Towards Zero Deaths" campaign.  One of the ways the Sheriff's Office supports this initiative is by utilizing grant funding obtained from the Maryland Highway Safety Office to place additional deputies on our roadways for the specific task of locating impaired drivers.

The Sheriff's Office will be conducting sobriety checkpoints in the coming weeks. The purpose of these checkpoints is to educate drivers about the dangers of driving a motor vehicle after they have consumed alcoholic beverages and/or controlled dangerous substances.

• In 2021, there were 6,522 impaired (alcohol and/or drugs) driving crashes statewide, resulting in 2,802 injuries and 151 fatalities. (Towardzerodeathsmd.com)
   
• A third of all statewide fatal crashes and 34 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities involve an impaired driver. (Towardzerodeathsmd.com)

• Sobriety checkpoints have been shown to be an important component of a comprehensive program to reduce drunk driving. Research had shown that sobriety checkpoints can reduce alcohol-related crashes anywhere from 18 to 26 percent. (Checkpointstrikeforce.net)

The Calvert County Sheriff's Office will continue to aggressively enforce the State DUI laws and will be conducting more DUI Checkpoints and Saturation Patrols. Sheriff Ricky Cox asks that, “If you choose to drink, drink responsibly and please don’t drive. Plan ahead, make arrangements for a safe ride home, call a ride share or call me.”- Sheriff Ricky Cox. The Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of our roadways and motorists here in Calvert County.

Two Teens Charged in Connection with Shooting Case at St. Charles Town Center: On May 7 at 4:10 p.m., officers responded to numerous calls for the sound of gunshots inside the St. Charles Town Center located at 11130 Mall Circle in Waldorf. When officers arrived, they established a perimeter and entered the mall to try to locate potential victims. At the same time, a description of the shooter and accomplices – reported to be teens –  was provided from witnesses who called 9-1-1. Responding officers located the subjects outside the mall hiding behind a dumpster; a gun was recovered from underneath the dumpster. A preliminary investigation showed the teens were involved in a dispute with two adults inside a business on the lower level of the mall. The dispute continued into a common area at which point a 16-year-old male produced a firearm. One of the men he was arguing with tried to intervene but the suspect pointed the gun toward him, discharging it one time. The round missed the victim and struck the window of a storefront. The suspects fled. With the assistance of the Maryland State Police and mall security officers, responding officers went through the mall and escorted customers and employees to safety. No one was injured as a result of the gunfire. Through further investigation, detectives determined a 17-year-old accomplice of the shooter took the gun and hid it underneath the dumpster. Both teens were arrested and charged as adults. The 16-year-old was charged with attempted murder, first-degree assault, and other related charges. The 17-year-old was charged with weapons violations. Detectives are working to establish where the 16-year-old obtained the gun. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Det. Bringley at 301-609-6499. 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. The investigation is ongoing.

May 8, 2023

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the whereabouts of Joshua David Chamberlain, age 37 of Drayden, who is wanted for violating the terms of his Pre-Trial release from the St. Mary's County Detention and Rehabilitation Center.

Chamberlain is awaiting trial for Theft: $100 to under $1,500 and absconded from the Project Chesapeake treatment center on April 30, 2023.

His whereabouts are currently unknown.

Anyone with information about Chamberlain's location 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.

A suspect is in custody after reports that gunshots were fired inside the St. Charles Towne Center in Waldorf, Maryland, on Sunday, authorities said.

“Initial reports indicate a group of teens may have discharged a firearm inside the mall” between 4:10 and 4:20 p.m., the Charles County Sheriff’s Office said. 

No injuries were reported and the mall remained closed Sunday, authorities said. There is no current threat to the public.

The teens appeared to have argued near the Sears. As things escalated, one person took out a gun and fired, shattering a storefront window and sending people running for cover.

"Officers, when they arrived and secured the building, they went inside immediately because we thought we might have an active shooter situation. Thankfully that was not the case," a spokesperson for the sheriff's office, Diane Richardson, said.

Richardson went on to say that the argument spilled out into the common area of the mall, at which time one of the suspects pulled out a gun.

"The other person who was involved in the argument stopped the suspect from attempting to shoot him, but the suspect was still able to discharge one round," she said.

Richardson said based on information they gathered from multiple witnesses, authorities were able to track down three suspects and detain them nearby. The sheriff's office also said deputies confiscated a gun from a suspect.

The shooting comes one day after eight people were killed and at least seven were injured in a mass shooting at an outdoor outlet mall in suburban Dallas, Texas, according to local police officials. The gunman in that attack was killed.

When Charles County Commissioner Amanda Stewart first learned about the shooting in Waldorf, she feared the worst.

"Not at home, not here," she said. "It really makes you pause for a second and really pray that everyone is going to be OK.”

?While law enforcement was quickly able to take control of the situation, what happened at St. Charles Towne Center is still unsettling for some.?

"I've never [seen] something like that. I’m scared. Everybody scared now," Tovar Aguilar said. ?

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Jamar Daron Moss, 42, of Calvert County, Maryland, was sentenced to life in prison for the first-degree rape of a victim in St. Mary’s County, Maryland that occurred on November 8, 2021.

During the sentencing hearing held on May 5, 2023, the victim addressed the Court and expressed that while this was a traumatic event for her, she finds solace in knowing that by coming forward she has protected other members of the community from being victimized by the Defendant.

Following the sentencing hearing, State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling commended the victim for her bravery and thanked her for reporting this heinous crime and enduring the entire trial process to obtain justice for herself and her community.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Ashley Sowls advocated for a life sentence on behalf of the victim and citizens of St. Mary’s County.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling would like to thank and acknowledge John Stackhouse and Daniel White, who tried the matter before a jury in September of 2022, and the Maryland State Police for the successful investigation of the case.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the trial and sentencing.

Detectives with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Investigations Division have arrested a 15-year-old male juvenile of Lexington Park for the murder of 26-year-old Marcus Anthony Day in Great Mills on April 4, 2023.

The 15-year-old juvenile was located and arrested in King George County, VA on Friday, May 5, 2023. The juvenile will be charged via warrant as an adult with First-Degree Murder, Second-Degree Murder, Use of a Firearm in a Violent Crime, First-Degree Assault, Second-Degree Assault and Possession of a Firearm by a Minor.

Due to a recent change in Maryland law, the juvenile will not be identified by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and no booking photo will be released until a waiver hearing is conducted to determine the jurisdiction of this case.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff Steve Hall wishes to thank the King George County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Christopher Giles for their cooperation and assistance in the investigation.

Original release:

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.

Download and Share the St. Mary's Sheriff's Office mobile app: https://apps.myocv.com/share/a48820650

Due to statewide system changes implemented by the state health department’s vital records office, the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is updating its local process for obtaining vital records (birth and death certificates).  
 
Community members are now strongly encouraged to make an appointment for requesting copies of birth or death certificates from the local health department. Walk-in customers without appointments may have longer wait times. To schedule an appointment, please call SMCHD at 301-475-4330.  
 
If a vital record needs a correction or update, community members will now need to contact the state health department’s Division of Vital Records in Baltimore at 410-764-3052 or 410-764-3090. Local health department staff will no longer be able to correct information on birth or death certificates.  
 
To learn more about obtaining a vital record from the SMCHD, including document requirements, fees, and application downloads, please click here for birth certificates or here for death certificates.    

Toy Gun Resembling Real Gun Recovered at Middle School: On May 4 at 9:30 a.m., a student informed a school staff member at Mattawoman Middle School that another student brought a possible gun to school and was showing it to other students. The gun was discovered to be a Splatrball gel gun, which has an orange tip, but could be mistaken for a real gun. 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 Douglas at 301-609-3282 ext. 0658.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that a jury convicted Justin Tyler Dunbar, 34, of Grantsburg, Wisconsin, of three counts of felony sexual offense of a child stemming from events that occurred on October 17, 2022, in St. Mary’s County, Maryland.

Following the announcement of the verdict, State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling said, “This terrible event is the epitome of vile and depraved behavior. No child should ever be subjected to sexual abuse. I hope this conviction provides a degree of relief for the victim and those affected by Mr. Dunbar’s unforgivable actions. I thank the members of the jury for their time and attention during this trial.”

Special Victims Unit Chief, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Sarah Proctor prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Mr. Dunbar has a pending warrant out of Colorado for a separate sexual offense involving another minor child.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

Knife Recovered from Student at Stethem Educational Center: On May 4 at 11:45 a.m., a staff member at Robert D. Stethem Educational Center observed a knife protruding from the waistband of a student. The knife was safely recovered. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation and has contacted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding 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 Ondrish at 301-609-3282 ext. 0636.

Student Charged with First-Degree Assault: On May 3 at 12 p.m., a male student at St. Charles High School was in possession of a female student’s cell phone and refused to give it back. Later, the female tried to recover her phone while outside of the school building, at which time the male grasped her throat, choked her and spat on her. The female sustained injuries and was treated by a school nurse. The school resource officer obtained an arrest warrant and the suspect was arrested and charged with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and malicious destruction of property. Anyone with details about this case is asked to call Cpl. Thompson at 301-609-3283 ext. 0434.

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at Middle School: On May 3 at 4:06 p.m., four students at Davis Middle School assaulted another student who was waiting for a school bus at Davis Middle School. The student who was assaulted sustained injuries and was treated by a school nurse. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation and has contacted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges. The students also face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Miedzinski at 301-609-3282 ext. 0688.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – May 4, 2023 – The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) will hold a public hearing Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at 7 p.m. to present and receive comments regarding the fiscal year (FY) 2024 commissioners’ recommended operating and capital improvement budget. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Hearing Room located at 175 Main St., in Prince Frederick.

For full public access and transparency, the hearing will be streamed live on www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Meetings and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

The public may listen or comment by phone using the following access information to participate remotely:

·         Toll-free: 888-475-4499

·         Meeting ID: 899 4188 8251

·         Passcode (if asked): #

·         Request to speak: *9

Individuals interested in providing comment may also submit written comments. Written comments may be submitted by emailing support@ccg-finance.zendesk.com or mailed to the BOCC at 175 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities or linguistic barriers should be requested by contacting the BOCC office at 410-535-1600, ext. 2202, or TTY 1-800-735-2258.

The FY 2024 Commissioners Budget document will be made available at least one week in advance of the hearing. Citizens are encouraged to view the budget in its entirety and learn more about the FY 2024 budget process by visiting www.calvertcountymd.gov/FY24Budget. Hard copies of the budget will also be available for review at the public libraries, or by contacting the Department of Finance at 410-535-1600, ext. 2441, or support@ccgfinance.zendesk.com.

The proposed budget includes changes from the FY 2024 Staff Recommended Budget which was presented on March 21, 2023. General Fund proposed changes will be presented at the hearing regarding refinement estimates that net a decrease of approximately $6,920,841.

This budget also contains changes to the Department of Planning & Zoning’s fee schedule, including changes to the environmental fees, and adding fees for architectural reviews and commercial permit rerouting, which are available for review within text of the draft resolution. The budget may be substantively modified, revised, amended, or otherwise changed based upon comments received at the public hearing.

For additional information, contact the Calvert County Department of Finance & Budget at 410-535-1600, ext. 2441, or by email at support@ccg-finance.zendesk.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.

Officers Apprehend Suspects in Burglary Case: On May 2 at 4:19 p.m., officers responded to the 2700 block of Hadley Drive for the report of a burglary in progress; the residence is close to another residence which was broken into a few days prior. Officers arrived on the scene and established a perimeter. Four suspects exited the residence and fled on foot. Officers and a K9 were able to apprehend the suspects –two adults and two juveniles. The adult suspects were in possession of oxycodone pills and suspected cannabis. Through investigation, one of the juvenile suspects was linked to the earlier burglary during which he broke into an occupied house and attempted to steal a gaming system. The two juveniles were charged on a juvenile offense report with burglary. The adults, D'Andre Juwan Jackson, 23, of Waldorf, and Kaleb Aaron Brooks, 27, of Waldorf, were charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance, burglary and other related charges. On May 2, a district court commissioner released Jackson from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance and on May 3, a district court commissioner released Brooks on personal recognizance. Officer Hopp is investigating.

May 4, 2023 (St. Mary's City, Md): The Historic St. Mary’s City (HSMC) Department of Research and Collections has uncovered the human remains of a young European man, believed to have been buried in the late 1630s. The remains were found approximately 30 feet outside of what once was St. Mary's Fort. This discovery may be one of the oldest colonial burials found in Maryland.

Curator of Biological Anthropology Douglas Owsley and Biological Anthropologist Kari Bruwelheide, both of the Smithsonian Institution, joined HSMC to begin studying the remains to learn more about the young man. It has been estimated that he was 15 – 16 years old at the time of his death. 

The individual was directly buried in the ground without a coffin or burial shroud. His lack of formal burial could speak to not having family or people who cared for him in the colony. The life, death, and burial of this person can provide valuable insights into the early settlers of Maryland. Travis Parno, Acting Executive Director and Director of Research and Collections said, “The remarkable discovery of the remains of one of Maryland's first colonizers is an important opportunity to learn about an individual who probably never appeared in the historical record. Archaeology and forensic anthropology will help us bring life and voice to a young man from the earliest period of the Maryland colony, a time when written records were sparse.” 

The remains will undergo cleaning and be transported to the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History for further analysis by Owlsley and Bruwelheide.

St. Mary's Fort Site is currently closed to tours and public access due to the ongoing removal of remains. There is no word on when the site will reopen at this time.

The palisaded St. Mary's Fort was erected in 1634 by the first wave of European settlers who founded Maryland. The site, which spans an area approximately the size of a football field, is located in Historic St. Mary’s City (HSMC) in Southern Maryland.

During the week of April 24 – April 30, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,809 calls for service throughout the community.

Damaged Property: 23-28708

On April 24, 2023, DFC Savick responded to the 3000 block of Lawrin Court in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised his vehicle had been egged. Damage to the vehicle’s front quarter panel was observed. The estimated value of damaged property is $250.00.

Theft: 23-28917

On April 24, 2023, Deputy Novick responded to the 300 block of Skinners Turn Road in Owings, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed two Maryland license plates were stolen from the victim’s vehicle sometime between April 21^st and April 24^th, while parked at the Park and Ride on Rt. 2 in Owings. The estimated value of stolen property is $100.00.

Theft: 23-30010

On April 28, 2023, DFC Durnbaugh responded to the 3600 block of 5^th Street in North Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his gray in color, 10-speed BMX bike with yellow stripes and a red bike pump were stolen from the front of the victim’s residence sometime between 2 p.m. on April 27^th and 7 p.m. on April 28^th. The estimated value of stolen property is $300.00.

ARRESTS

On April 24, 2023, DFC Crum initiated a traffic stop in the 2700 block of W. Chesapeake Beach Road in Dunkirk, for a speeding violation. During the investigation, a K9 search of the vehicle revealed 17 Suboxone Strips in the back pouch of the passenger seat. The driver, Todd Eric Meneely, 60 of Owings, advised he did not have a prescription for the mentioned controlled dangerous substance. Meneely was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

 

DUI Arrests for the week of April 24 – April 30

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

Patrol Officer Recovers Firearm during Traffic Stop: On April 29 at 11:05 p.m., a patrol officer initiated traffic stop in the area of St. Charles Parkway and Kintore Road after observing a traffic violation. Upon contacting the occupants, the officer detected a strong odor of cannabis. Further investigation revealed a loaded firearm in possession of the passenger as well as suspected cannabis. Demonte Justin Blackwell, 26, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle and other related charges. On April 30, a district court commissioner ordered Blackwell could be released from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance. Cpl. Morrison is investigating.

May 4, 2023

On Tuesday, May 2, 2023, detectives with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office executed a search and seizure warrant on a Lexington Park man resulting in cocaine distribution charges.

Criminal Investigations Division detectives located Deyonta Terrell Gross, age 29 of Lexington Park, driving a 2021 Hyundai Palisade at a restaurant in California. Gross was detained by police and search of the vehicle produced a digital scale located in the front driver door and a box of sandwich bags located in the center console. A quantity of suspected cocaine was also located on Gross.

Gross was charged with CDS Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Production Equipment and CDS Possession: Cocaine. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown and released on recognizance on Wednesday and placed on Pre-Trial supervision.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), along with Senators Tom Carper (D-Del.), John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) have introduced legislation to help modernize and increase safety at fraternity and sorority buildings nationwide. Their legislation would change the tax code to allow not-for-profit student groups to accept charitable donations to help construct new buildings or make safety improvements.

While colleges and universities can use charitable deductions to build and maintain student housing, the same has not been true for other not-for-profit groups. The Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act (CHIA) would change the tax code so tax-exempt charitable and educational organizations, such as national fraternities and sororities, could use tax-deductible charitable contributions to build, maintain or improve their not-for-profit student housing.

“This is about safety. Nearly half a million college students across the country live in not-for-profit student housing that were constructed prior to the widespread use of water sprinkler systems,” said Senator Cardin, a member of the Senate Finance Committee. “Our legislation will address this tax disparity and allow capital-strained not-for-profit student housing to install necessary safety equipment, expand housing and improve living conditions for students.”

“Sororities and Fraternities are a top provider of affordable student housing in West Virginia and across the country. The Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act (CHIA) would level the playing field for providers of student housing by allowing charitable donations towards housing infrastructure to be tax-deductible. I hope my colleagues will join me to help pass this bill that addresses critical safety concerns and the housing affordability crisis faced by college students,” Senator Capito said.

“It is up to us to ensure that college students have the appropriate housing resources they need. The U.S. tax code shouldn’t stand in the way of that,” said Senator Carper. “This bipartisan legislation will allow campus groups to directly fund housing improvements, such as installing safety measures and improving living conditions. With full access to use of their funding, students can feel comfortable in their housing.”

“Increasing safe, ample housing within college communities is good for students and carries wider economic benefits. By eliminating an arbitrary distinction in tax policy to help incentivize repairs, upgrades and new construction of nonprofit-sponsored housing, we can improve the quality of life on campuses in Arkansas and across the country. I’m pleased to join my colleagues on this bipartisan, common-sense legislation,” Senator Boozman said.

The bill text can be downloaded here.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding the naval air station are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place May 08–May 19, 2023. Test events are scheduled from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Pilots at NAS PAX will be conducting Field Carrier Landing Practices (FCLPs). FCLPs are simulated carrier landings conducted to prepare the pilot to land safely on an aircraft carrier.  The practices consist of series of touch-and-go maneuvers, “bounces”. Airspeed, altitude and power are all precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach the ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our military men and women and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. It is a highly complex and perishable skill, and requires intense period of training before pilots deploy. Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations.

As with all operations, NAS Patuxent River takes precautions to lessen the impact of testing activities on the community. For more information, call 1-866-819-9028. To view all current NAS PAX noise advisories please click the following link: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/PaxRiverNoise.

On Tuesday, May 2, Commissioners received a briefing from representatives of the Bel Alton High School Alumni Association regarding efforts to place the building on the National Register of Historic Places. The site has already received historical designation by Charles County and the state of Maryland. Commissioners approved the association’s request to pay up to $8,000 toward the cost of hiring an architectural historian to conduct a survey as part of the designation nomination process. They also discussed an inspection report provided by the Maryland Historical that summarized the deteriorating conditions in the building. County staff provided information about capital improvement funds that have been set aside to address these concerns.

Fiscal 2024 Budget Work Session

The Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services staff reviewed several funds from the proposed Fiscal 2024 budget. Commissioners received an update on the Special Revenue Funds , the Enterprise Funds, and the General Fund.  Commissions discussed items to add/delete for next year for the General Fund and also discussed proposed changes to the Capital Improvement Program budget.

Work Session on Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan

County Commissioners held a work session where the Planning and Growth Management staff addressed public comments on the 2023 Update of the Charles County Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan. Commissioner voted to adopt and submit the draft 2023 Plan to the Maryland Department of the Environment for approval.

Open Session Briefings

• Chief Equity Officer Renesha Miles presented a quarterly update on the county’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. She highlighted monthly programs, training, and employee engagement efforts; and discussed how these strategies were aligned with the county’s commitment to equity.
• Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services staff reviewed the plan for expenditures of federal funds received from the American Rescue Plan Act.
• Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services staff provided a presentation on the Third Quarter Fiscal 2023 General Fund Report.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• Introduction of a zoning text amendment to allow Mark Vogel Companies, Inc., to broaden its ability to amend an approved Master Plan. The request would provide flexibility to respond to changing market trends for proposed projects. A public hearing was scheduled for Tuesday, June 13.
• Changes to the public comments during Commissioner meetings, to place it ahead of Commissioner comments on agendas; so that Commissioners can each respond to issues that are raised during public comments.

Proclamations

Commissioners issued the following proclamations:

• Recognized May 2023 as Foster Care Awareness Month, National Drug Court Month, National Mental Health Awareness Month, Older Americans Month, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month.
• Recognized April 30 – May 6, 2023 as National Small Business Week and Business Appreciation Week.
• Recognized May 5, 2023 as Resource Parents’ Celebration Day.
• Recognized May 7 – 13, 2023 as Public Service Recognition Week, National Travel and Tourism Week, and National Correctional Officers Appreciation Week.
• Recognized May 15 – 21, 2023 as National Police Week.
• Recognized May 17, 2023 as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma Awareness Day.
• Recognized May 19, 2023 as National Bike to Work Day.
• Recognized May 21 – 27, 2023 as Emergency Medical Services Appreciation Week. 
• Recognized May 24, 2023 as Emergency Medical Services for Children Day.

All photos for proclamations presented in person are available online in Charles County’s photo library.

Next Commissioners Session: May 9-10, 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. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners then presented proclamations for National Travel and Tourism Week, Small Business Month, Law Day, and National Historic Preservation Month. The Department of Land Use and Growth Management then presented their annual Historic Preservation Awards selected by the Historic Preservation Commission.

During the Main Agenda items, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Approved the Department of Land Use and Growth Management’s amendment to the Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan for the property located at 23836 Mervell Dean Road Hollywood, MD.
• Approved the Department of Finances’ request to adopt an ordinance to establish an Excise Tax.
• Approved the Department of Human Resources request to hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 16, in consideration of the seventeenth amendment to the Sheriff’s Office Retirement Plan.
• Approved the County Attorney’s request for a public hearing on the proposed resolution to update the St. Mary’s County Road Naming and Addressing Manual.

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

• Approved the employment contract for the St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks Gold Course Manager.

The CSMC will host their next regular business meeting on Tuesday, May 9, 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.

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at McDonough High School: On May 1 at 1:30 p.m., six students at McDonough High School assaulted another student at the school; the student was transported to a hospital with an injury that required treatment. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation and has contacted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges. The students involved in the assault face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Virts at 301-609-3282 ext. 0504.

On Monday, May 1, 2023, Detectives with the Criminal Investigations Bureau arrested and charged four suspects in connection with the armed bank robbery of the M&T Bank located at 10090 Southern Maryland Blvd. in Dunkirk, MD.

Cedric Fonta Moore, age 39, Silas Moliek Moore, age 37, Jamel Anthony Brown, age 31, and Donise Sarah Blacknell, age, 26, all of Washington D.C., have all been charged with Armed Robbery and Possession of a Firearm During a Felony.

Additional charges are pending.

The citizen that was injured during the pursuit has been released from Shock Trauma and is home recovering with his family.

Four Suspects Apprehended Following Dunkirk Bank Robbery

On Monday, May 1, 2023, around 1:30 p.m., deputies from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to an armed bank robbery at the M&T Bank located at 10090 Southern Maryland Blvd. in Dunkirk, MD.

Preliminary investigation revealed a male suspect approached the counter and passed the teller a note, then displayed a handgun demanding money. The suspect fled with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Witnesses observed the suspect enter a brown Kia with no front tag fleeing SB on Rt. 4. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Bureau located a vehicle matching the description provided by witnesses at Rt. 4 and Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick. Detectives initiated a traffic stop where the suspect vehicle fled through a red light causing several property damage accidents along northbound Rt. 4. A pursuit ensued along Rt. 2 and Rt. 260 in Owings, where the suspect vehicle struck an uninvolved citizen’s vehicle leaving both vehicles disabled ending the pursuit.

Two occupants in the suspect vehicle were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries. Two additional occupants in the suspect vehicle were apprehended and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center.

The uninvolved citizen was flown to an area trauma center with serious injuries and remains in critical condition.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to contact Detective W. Wells at wayne.wells@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-2800 ext. 2595.

In accordance with Maryland State Law, The Maryland Attorney General’s Independent Investigations Division (IID) was contacted, but based on a lack of qualifying factors, declined to handle the investigation. The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate.

Additional details will be released as they become available. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – It’s time to clean out your filing cabinets and desks to get rid of confidential, private, or important personal documents that you no longer need to keep! 

The Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) will host their 15^th annual Community Shredding Event on Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 8 a.m. – noon at the St. Andrews Landfill, located at 44837 St. Andrews Church Road.

This community event gives residents the opportunity to have their confidential, private, and important documents destroyed by a professional shredding service at no cost. This type of shredding turns sensitive documents into confetti-sized pieces, ensuring that confidential material cannot be copied. All paper material shredded during the event will then be recycled.

Please refrain from bringing materials that are not confidential in nature, such as newspapers and magazines (acceptable for recycling at the six Convenience Centers) as they will cause the truck to fill up more quickly. The shredder can handle simple staples, paper clips, spiral notebooks, and thin metal prongs, however it cannot accept 3 ring binders.  Please limit the number of boxes you bring to 3 standard bankers’ boxes (10"H x 12"W x 15” D) per person so we can serve as many residents as possible. A total of 16,000 pounds (8 tons) of paper was collected from over 172 vehicles at the last event held in September 2022.

For more information, please call DPW&T at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3550.

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) held a change of command ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, May 1.

During the ceremony, Cmdr. Leif Gunderson relieved Cmdr. Matthew Hays as Milius’ commanding officer on the ship’s flight deck in front of more than 300 crew members and visitors.

“It’s an honor of a lifetime to assume command of this great warship,” said Gunderson. “I want to give a special thanks to Cmdr. Hays and his excellent leadership over the past two years. I look forward to continuing to work with Team Milius as we move forward with unmatched determination and execution.”

Gunderson is a Waldorf, Maryland, native and 2004 graduate of North Carolina State University. He was commissioned with distinguished honors through Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida, the same year. He assumes command of Milius after serving as the ship’s executive officer.

During his 19-month tour, Hays commanded Milius through two Continuous Maintenance Availabilities, a Surface Incremental Availability, Surface Warfare Advanced Technical Training, a periodic Board of Inspection and Survey, multiple high-level exercises and three deployments in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

“Throughout my tour in command of Milius, the dedicated Sailors on board have owned and driven my priorities of warfighting readiness, tactical excellence, and maintenance and self-sufficiency – keeping Milius a ready and lethal warship, ready to support the fleet for any and all tasking,” said Hays. “They have proudly carried the name and legacy of Capt. Milius – working selflessly every day.”

Hays, who was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal during the ceremony, will serve his next tour at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

Milius’ namesake honors Capt. Paul Milius, a Navy pilot who saved the lives of seven crew members by remaining at the controls when his OP-E2 aircraft was shot down over Vietnam.

Milius is part of Commander, Task Force 71, U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. CTF 71 is responsible for the readiness, tactical and administrative responsibilities for forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers as well as any surface unit conducting independent operations in the region.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Maryland State Police are reminding motorists to drive responsibly ahead of Cinco de Mayo weekend.

In anticipation of an increase in impaired drivers this weekend, beginning with Cinco de Mayo on Friday, all 23 barracks across Maryland will ramp up enforcement efforts to combat impaired, distracted and aggressive driving. Troopers at each barrack, along with members of the State Police SPIDRE (State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort) Team will conduct statewide DUI saturation patrols and high-visibility enforcement, which are designed to create deterrence and change unlawful driving behaviors. 

A portion of the costs associated with the increased enforcement efforts will be paid through impaired driving saturation funds provided by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office. Since its inception in 2013, the SPIDRE DUI Team has recorded more than 4,200 DUI arrests and issued more than 30,000 citations.

Among the planned initiatives:
 

• The Waterloo Barrack will conduct high visibility and saturation patrols along designated hot spots on I-70 and I-95 in Howard County.
• The Bel Air Barrack will focus its enforcement efforts along Routes 1, 24, 40, and 155 in Harford County.
• The Salisbury Barrack will focus on traffic enforcement along Routes 50 and 13 corridors in Wicomico County.
• The Rockville Barrack in Montgomery County will concentrate its efforts on I-495 and surrounding areas.
• The Golden Ring Barrack will focus on I-695, including in and around work zones in Baltimore County.
• The McHenry Barrack will focus its efforts on I-68 and Route 219 in Garrett County. 

• The Centreville Barrack will conduct safety enforcement operations for DUI and traffic violations on Routes 301, 20 and 50 on the Eastern Shore.

Impaired driving is a leading cause of motor-vehicle crashes and fatalities in Maryland, according to the Maryland Department of Transportation. Over the past five years, nearly 800 people have been killed in crashes involving an impaired driver, and such deaths account for about a third of all roadway fatalities in Maryland.

From 2017-2021, an average of 169 lives were lost and 3,000 more people were injured annually because of impaired driving crashes in Maryland. All of these deaths and injuries were preventable.

Are you planning to celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
 

• Designate a sober driver in advance and give that person your car keys.
• If you plan on driving, avoid drinking alcohol.
• Consider using public transportation, a taxi, or a ride-sharing service if there is no sober driver.
• Call the police if you see an impaired driver.
• Do not text while driving or drive distracted. Use a hands-free cell phone.
• If you are hosting a Cinco de Mayo gathering, you can be held liable if someone you served alcohol to ends up in an impaired driving crash.
• Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Have contact information for taxis or ride-sharing options available.
• Take away the keys from someone who is thinking of driving impaired.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Between preparing healthy food, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, St. Mary’s County Public Schools nutrition professionals have a lot on their plate.  To celebrate their hard work and commitment, St. Mary’s County Public Schools will celebrate School Lunch Hero Day on Friday, May 5, 2023.

This day, celebrated annually since 2013, was designated by The School Nutrition Association and Jarrett Krosoczka, author of the “Lunch Lady” graphic novel series.  School Lunch Hero Day

provides an opportunity for parents, students, school staff, and communities to thank those who provide healthy meals to nearly 30 million of America’s students each school day.

“School nutrition employees must balance many roles and follow numerous federal, state, and local regulations to ensure safe and healthy meals are available in schools.  School Lunch Hero Day provides the opportunity for the community to thank these hard-working heroes,” said Megan Doran, Director of Food and Nutrition Services.  Federal nutrition standards ensure that school cafeterias always offer low-fat or fat-free milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.  School meals also meet limits on calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats.

The importance and nutritional value of school meals are well documented.  For many children, school lunch is the most important and nutrient-rich meal of their day.

Get the details about School Lunch Hero Day at www.schoollunchheroday.com.  To learn more about the school nutrition program for St. Mary’s County Public Schools, visit our website at

www.smcps.org/dss/food-services.

(St. Mary’s City, Md.) May 2 - The 2023 Commencement exercises at St. Mary's College of Maryland will be held Saturday, May 13 at 10 a.m. on the College's Townhouse Green. The class will include 323 undergraduates who are expected to receive bachelor's degrees, while 21 graduates are expected to receive the Master of Arts in Teaching degree.

International superstar and goodwill ambassador Angélique Kidjo will be the speaker. The five-time Grammy winner will perform in concert at the Nancy R. & Norton T. Dodge Performing Arts Center on the campus later that evening, beginning at 7 p.m.

Undergraduates hail from 18 of Maryland's 24 counties or local jurisdictions, 8 other states (including the District of Columbia), and one foreign country (China). Top majors for this year's class include psychology (51 graduates), biology (43 graduates), economics (37 graduates), environmental studies (30 graduates) and English (21 graduates). 

St. Mary’s College of Maryland is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. St. Mary’s College, the National Public Honors College, is ranked as the top public liberal arts college in the U.S. by Money magazine. Approximately 1,600 students attend the college, nestled on the St. Mary’s River in Southern Maryland.

BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin, Maryland’s senior senator and Chair of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, announced today that he would not seek re-election at the end of his current term. He released the following statement and a video with his wife, Myrna Cardin that can be downloaded here.

Passionate about both politics and policy for more than 56 years, Cardin has built up broad expertise on national security issues and human rights, health care, retirement security and taxes, small businesses issues, as well as the transportation alternatives and the Chesapeake Bay. More details on his policy accomplishments can be found here.

Senator Cardin: “I love Maryland. I love the people of Maryland and I love everything about our state from the beaches to the mountains, the cities and neighborhoods in between, and the rich history of the iconic Chesapeake Bay. It’s been the honor of my life to represent the people of Maryland in the General Assembly, as Speaker of the House of Delegates, as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and now in the United States Senate.

“From an early age, my family and my faith instilled in me the spirit of helping our community and that we all have a responsibility to make the world around us a better place. These values have always been present in my home and have driven my years of public service to Maryland and the nation.

“For me, the essential ingredients of effective public service are integrity and civility. I have always tried to listen to people, understand their problems and then work with them to find a solution. I am an optimist but also a realist. I was taught that it’s okay to compromise – don’t ever compromise your principles – but find a path to get things done. Inspire trust in those around you. Keep your word and, again, listen. That’s civility and it has been central to all I have done over these many years of elected office. It is how I was able to pass the groundbreaking Magnitsky sanctions and guaranteed dental care for children nationwide.

“I am proud of all I have done for Maryland. I have given my heart and soul to our great state, and I thank Marylanders for trusting me as your representative for all these years. I thank my family for their support and counsel, and recognize the many sacrifices they have endured as we traveled this path together. My profound thanks also to the most dedicated staff in all of Congress, many of whom have spent all or most of their career serving alongside me.

“I have run my last election and will not be on the ballot in 2024, but there is still much work to be done. During the next two years, I will continue to travel around the state, listening to Marylanders and responding to their needs. My top priorities include continuing our progress for the Chesapeake Bay, helping the people of Baltimore City deal with the challenges they face, and permanently expanding opportunities for telehealth, mental and behavioral health. As Small Business Chair, I will continue to work on behalf of small businesses in Maryland and across the country who still face a tough economic climate. We need to keep building up the tools available to help our small businesses, especially women-owned, veteran-owned, minority owned and underserved entrepreneurs. I plan to make the most of every moment left. #TeamMarylandForever.”  

First elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in 1968 while still in law school at the University of Maryland, Cardin served as Maryland Ways and Means Chair and then as one of the youngest Speakers in Maryland’s history from 1979-1986. From 1987-2006, he represented Maryland’s Third Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives and served for 17 years on the House Ways & Means Committee. Cardin was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2006. He is completing his third term. In addition to his leadership of the Small Business Committee, Cardin is the second-ranking Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations and Environment & Public Works Committees. He also is a member of the Senate Finance Committee and is co-chair of the Committee on Security and Cooperation in Europe (Helsinki Commission). Cardin served as ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee from 2015-2018.

On Monday, May 1, 2023, around 1:30 p.m., deputies from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to an armed bank robbery at the M&T Bank located at 10090 Southern Maryland Blvd. in Dunkirk, MD.

Preliminary investigation revealed a male suspect approached the counter and passed the teller a note, then displayed a handgun demanding money. The suspect fled with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Witnesses observed the suspect enter a brown Kia with no front tag fleeing SB on Rt. 4. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Bureau located a vehicle matching the description provided by witnesses at Rt. 4 and Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick. Detectives initiated a traffic stop where the suspect vehicle fled through a red light causing several property damage accidents along northbound Rt. 4. A pursuit ensued along Rt. 2 and Rt. 260 in Owings, where the suspect vehicle struck an uninvolved citizen’s vehicle leaving both vehicles disabled ending the pursuit.

Two occupants in the suspect vehicle were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries. Two additional occupants in the suspect vehicle were apprehended and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center.

The uninvolved citizen was flown to an area trauma center with serious injuries and remains in critical condition.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to contact Detective W. Wells at wayne.wells@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-2800 ext. 2595.

In accordance with Maryland State Law, The Maryland Attorney General’s Independent Investigations Division (IID) was contacted, but based on a lack of qualifying factors, declined to handle the investigation. The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate.

Additional details will be released as they become available. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County are pleased to announce that Comcast is expanding its Xfinity 10G network to more than 17,500 additional homes and businesses across 450 miles in St. Mary’s. Construction has begun and the project – which includes communities in Broad Creek, California, Callaway, Great Mills, Lexington Park, and Wildewood – will be completed in phases, with an expected completion of the project in 2028.

Comcast’s expansion announcement can be found here – including details on the full suite of Xfinity and Comcast Business services that will be delivered to residents and businesses.

“On behalf of the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, I applaud Comcast for this investment in our community, which will provide residents and businesses with more choice when it comes to advanced broadband services,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy. 

“We are excited to bring our advanced network to more homes and business in St. Mary’s County,” said Michael Parker, Regional Senior Vice President for Comcast's Beltway Region. “Our network is built to exceed customers’ expectations and power the technologies and applications they rely on – and we look forward to fueling innovation, creativity and growth in St. Mary’s County well into the future.”

The public can view the St. Mary’s County wired broadband service areas map to follow project progress, online at: stmaryscountymd.gov/broadbandmap.

To learn more about the St. Mary’s County Government Department of Information Technology and related community projects, please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/it or call (301) 475-4200, extension 1007.

SRO Investigating Altercation Involving Numerous Students at Henry Lackey High School: On May 1 at 11 a.m., school administrators at Henry Lackey High School separated numerous students fighting inside the school. One student was treated by a school nurse for injuries. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation and will contact the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges. The students also face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Plunkett at 301-609-3282 ext. 0469.  

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Department of Public Work’s (DPW&T) will be making improvements to a portion of Wildewood Parkway, from Maryland Route 4 (MD 4) to Rolling Oak Lane. Weather permitting, this roadwork will be performed on Thursday, May 4 and Friday, May 5, 2023, between the hours of 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and will consist of:

• Removal of a large tree that has begun to encroach into the inbound lane of the Parkway
• Milling and overlay of the one inbound and two outbound lanes
• New pavement markings

Due to the complexity of this project and heavy traffic volume in the area, motorists are advised to access and depart the Wildewood community via Wildwood Blvd, if possible. If you must use the MD 4 intersection, please approach with extreme caution.

At times, inbound traffic will be redirected to use the left turn outbound lane of Wildewood Parkway, so please follow the direction of traffic control personnel. Drivers may experience a brief delay and should remain alert for equipment, work crews, and changing traffic patterns.

Traffic control will be a collaborative effort between the St. Mary’s County Highways Division, Maryland State Highway Administration Department of Transportation, and the St. Mary’s County Sherriff’s Office.

If additional information is needed, please contact DPW&T at (301)-475-4200, ext. 3531.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is pleased to announce another major step toward closing the digital divide for county residents. A grant awarded to Comcast through the state’s Connect Maryland Network Infrastructure Grant Program will expand broadband access to an additional 36 homes in the county and add nine miles of infrastructure.

The $942,223 award was one of 35 made to internet service providers and local jurisdictions to help fund construction of new broadband networks to reach unserved households.

“Through a public/private partnership with Comcast, the BOCC has made significant investments in expanding services throughout the county to ensure everyone has access to the opportunities and resources the internet provides – a necessity in today’s world,” said BOCC President Commissioner Earl F. “Buddy” Hance. “This grant funding complements the significant work we are already doing to complete the broadband infrastructure buildout to all in Calvert who request it.”

“We are excited to strengthen our partnership with Calvert County and expand our network deeper into the county,” said Michael Parker, Senior Vice President of Comcast’s Beltway Region. “This partnership will bolster investments already underway to ensure residents and businesses across the county can fully participate in today’s digital economy.”

The Calvert County BOCC has financially committed to the full buildout of Comcast cable infrastructure in Calvert County at no out-of-pocket cost to residents and businesses, regardless of their home's distance from the main road. Residents can search for their home address on the Comcast Services Extension map at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/ComcastBuildout to view its status. Any resident whose address has not been identified as needing service and would like to be included in the buildout may submit a request online.

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.

Student at John Hanson Middle School Charged with Assault and Possession of Cannabis: On May 1 at 9:30 a.m., school administrators at John Hanson Middle School were alerted a student was in possession of suspected cannabis. The student became aggressive with school employees and the school resource officer (SRO) and refused to follow commands. As additional officers arrived, the student became violent and struck an officer. The officer utilized his Taser and safely took the student in custody. In accordance with Agency policy, EMS responded and evaluated the student, who was not injured. The student was charged with second-degree assault, disruption of school activities and other related charges. The student also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Anderson at 301-609-3282 ext. 0422. 

The 64^th Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) recently completed its first 100 days in office. Since taking office on Dec. 20, 2022, the BOCC has taken a fiscally responsible approach to prioritizing key issues such as improving infrastructure, enhancing public safety and supporting economic growth. These achievements demonstrate the board’s commitment to serving the community and addressing the most pressing issues facing the county.

Some of the notable achievements of the BOCC during the first 100 days include:

• Launched online permit applications through Encompass portal
• Enacted a resolution to enhance transparency through the Maryland Public Information Act
• Released a new community survey that aims to help officials better understand residents’ priorities, concerns on county services and overall quality of life
• Initiated improvements for water and sewer metering and billing, including an online portal for customers
• Launched consolidated human resources and financial management system
• Adopted Calvert County Police Accountability Board bylaws
• Signed MOU to receive grant funding for the Armory Square Improvement Plan which includes an open air, community-focused pavilion in Prince Frederick 
• Approved new Tourism Development Incentive Fund to offset fees for businesses and nonprofits to host public events that will increase tourism within the county
• Expanded the North Calvert and Calvert Creeks Rural Legacy Areas
• Approved funding for parks and recreation facility enhancements, to include tennis court replacement, field lighting, playground improvements and new pickleball facilities
• Met with Calvert County legislative delegation to discuss 2023 legislative requests
• Determined commissioner participation on 12 county boards and commissions
• Recognized 31 new business openings
• Working to incorporate Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center into Calvert County Government
• Began fiscal year 2024 budget process, with budget approval in early June

“We are proud of what we have accomplished in the first 100 days and recognize that there is much more work to be done,” said BOCC President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance. “These first days have shown that we have a strong board that has clearly demonstrated its priority is serving the residents of Calvert County. We look forward to continuing our work together to preserving and improving the quality of life for all residents.”

Citizens are encouraged to stay engaged with the BOCC through their meetings, which are broadcast live on Comcast channel 1070 HD and on the county website at www.calvertcountymd.gov/Meetings. Those interested can also stay up-to-date on important information by subscribing to Calvert Currents, the BOCC weekly newsletter, at www.calvertcountymd.gov/Newsletters. For questions, please contact the Communications & Media Relations Division of the Office of the County Administrator at 410-535-2003. 

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.

May 1, 2023

On Saturday, April 29, 2023, at 1:40 am, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to Point Lookout Road and Bellevue Lane in Helen for the report of a single-vehicle crash with the vehicle overturned. Offices arrived and located a female passenger unresponsive with suspected serious injuries. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to continue the investigation.

Preliminary investigation determined that a 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer, operated by 17-year-old Ethan Beierle of Mechanicsville, was traveling southbound on Point Lookout Road. Due to weather conditions and suspected speeding, the vehicle lost control over a curve, going off the roadway, striking a ditch and turning over. In addition to the driver, there were three passengers inside of the vehicle. Abigail Thorpe, age 18 of Mechanicsville, was unconscious at the scene and was transported to an area shock trauma hospital for incapacitating injuries.

Speed is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

Anyone with additional information about the collision is asked to contact Cpl. Matthew Beyer at 301-475-4200, ext. 78005 or email matthew.beyer@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.

The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for the month of May: 

Monday, May 29 (Memorial Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville will be closed.

• The Charles County Landfill and Recycling Center, Pisgah, Gilbert Run, and Breeze Farm Recycling Centers and the Piney Church Road Mulch Facility are closed.

• Curbside recycling and yard waste collection will be delayed one day for the entire week, Tuesday, May 30 through Saturday, June 3.
• VanGO services will not be operating.
• The Nanjemoy Community Center, senior centers, and all school-based community centers are closed.
• Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center will be closed. 

• Indoor pools: Lackey, North Point, and Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center will be open from noon – 5 p.m.
• Port Tobacco Recreation Center, and Elite Gymnastics and Recreation Center will be open for scheduled activities.
• The Crain Memorial Welcome Center is closed.
• Port Tobacco Village is closed.

Operating status for other County affiliated agencies:

• Charles County Parks and Tourism Facilities: www.CharlesCountyParks.com/about-us/operating-status
• Charles County Public Library: www.ccplonline.org

• Charles County Health Department: www.CharlesCountyHealth.org
• Charles County Public Schools: www.ccboe.com

For questions about County Government holiday closures, contact the Public Information Office at 301-885-2779 or PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

School Resource Officer Investigating Two Related Altercations Inside School: On April 28 at 12:10 p.m., two students assaulted another student in a classroom while classes were transitioning. The assailants fled from the school but were identified. Shortly after, another fight occurred in the main lobby of the school. The students were separated by school administrators and the school resource officer (SRO). Investigation showed the second altercation was a result of the first assault. The student in the first case was treated by a school nurse. The SRO has initiated an investigation and will contact the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges. The students also face disciplinary sanctions by school administration. Anyone with information about either of the assaults is asked to contact Cpl. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext. 0475. 

Patrol Officers Recover Loaded Firearm in Vehicle: On April 28 at 12:19 a.m., officers responded to the 800 block of Stone Avenue in Waldorf for the report of an intrusion alarm at a school. When officers arrived, they observed a vehicle in the parking lot. Upon making contact with the driver, the odor of cannabis was detected. Further investigation revealed a loaded firearm in the car as well as suspected cannabis. The driver, Devaughn Marquel McAllister, 28, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm inside a vehicle, possession of a firearm without a serial number, and other related charges. Officers also checked the school but did not find any signs of a burglary. On April 28, a district court commissioner released McAllister on a $1,500 unsecured bond. Cpl. Morrison is investigating.

School Resource Officer Investigating Altercation at Henry Lackey High School: On April 28 at 10:45 a.m., five students at Henry Lackey High School became involved in a fight inside a classroom. The students separated and one of the students involved was treated by a school nurse for an injury sustained during the altercation. A school resource officer has initiated an investigation and will contact the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office relating to charges. The students also face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Cpl. Plunkett at 301-609-3282 ext. 0469. 

Two Juveniles to be Charged in Assault Case at La Plata High School: On April 27 at 2:20 p.m., two juveniles assaulted a student who was waiting for a school bus in the parking lot at La Plata High School. A school resource officer initiated an investigation and identified the juveniles as students who attend different schools and were transitioning from one bus to another at La Plata. After reviewing the case, the two juveniles involved in the assault will be charged on a juvenile offense report with second-degree assault. The juveniles also face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Cpl. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext. 0475. 

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at McDonough High School: On April 28 at 10:50 a.m., four students assaulted another student at Maurice McDonough High School. The students separated and the school resource officer (SRO) initiated an investigation. The SRO will contact the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges. The students face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Virts at 301-609-3282 ext. 0504.

Replica Firearm Recovered from Thomas Stone High School Student: On April 28 at 10:15 a.m., students alerted a school administrator at Thomas Stone High School that another student was in possession of what appeared to be a gun. The gun was recovered from the student and determined to be a BB gun. The school resource officer initiated an investigation and will contact the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding criminal charges. 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.