Warrant Unit seeking whereabouts of fugitive wanted for sexual child abuse / Crime Solvers offering cash reward: Charles County Sheriff’s investigators are seeking the whereabouts of Katravien Tyrieus Vercher, 24, of Waldorf, who was recently indicted on multiple counts of sexual child abuse. Warrants are on file charging Vercher with sex abuse of a minor, third-degree sex offense, and other related charges. The Warrant Unit has been searching for Vercher, but he has not been located.

Vercher is 5’9”, 185 lbs., and frequents Waldorf, Oxon Hill, and areas in Washington, D.C.  Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Rickard at 301-609-3282 ext. 0660. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. A cash reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for the tip that leads to an arrest in the case.

Warrant Unit seeking whereabouts of fugitive / Crime Solvers offering cash reward: Charles County Sheriff’s investigators are seeking the whereabouts of Anthony Kavon Brown, 23, of Waldorf, who is wanted in connection with multiple open warrants. Brown was indicted on charges of violating probation regarding illegal firearm possession; failing to appear in court on a second-degree assault; violating probation related to armed robbery and second-degree assault; and violating a protective order.

Brown is 5’9”, 120 lbs., and frequents Indian Head, Newburg, and Waldorf. He also has ties to Prince George’s County and Northern Virginia. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Rickard at 301-609-3282 ext. 0660. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. A cash reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for the tip that leads to an arrest in the case.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, a Charles County jury, after an 8-day trial, convicted Deon Watkins, 51, of the First-Degree Murder of Kandeon Niravanh, the First-Degree Murder of Genesis Garrett, and related charges.  

Before 1:00 a.m. on January 21, 2021, officers responded to the 2400 block of Hanover Court in Waldorf for a report of an open door to a residence in the neighborhood. Upon arrival, officers found the front door of a residence was open. They then discovered Kandeon Niravanh and Genesis Garrett deceased with apparent gunshot wounds to the upper body inside of that residence. Several neighbors also reported hearing gunshots around 12:30 a.m.  

An investigation into the murders revealed that Watkins and Niravanh were involved in selling marijuana. Watkins was the supplier for the marijuana that Niravanh sold. Prior to the incident, an argument occurred between Watkins and Niravanh via text message based on a debt that Niravanh owed Watkins, as well as Watkins’ belief that Niravanh was attempting to contact his drug supplier directly. The exchange included voice-to-text messages of Watkins threatening violence against Niravanh.  

The investigation also revealed that Watkins operated a gray 2012 Honda Accord passenger car. Based on phone records, video surveillance and tag reader information, Watkins drove this vehicle to the residence of Niravanh, who also lived with Garrett, and committed the murders of both victims. Following the murders, a vehicle that matched the description of Watkins’ vehicle was observed on video surveillance leaving the scene.  

A status has been set for October 27, 2023, at which time a sentencing date will be selected.   

Guilty  

• 2 counts of First-Degree Murder  
• Use of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence related to the First-Degree Murder of Kandeon Niravanh  
• Use of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence related to the First-Degree Murder of Genesis Garrett  
• Use of a Firearm During the Commission After Being Convicted of a Crime of Violence  

The St. Mary’s County Health Department’s (SMCHD) Behavioral Health Division has been selected for participation in the Building Healing Behavioral Health Systems (BHBHS) Learning Collaborative (2023-2024 Healing Systems-LC).  The BHBHS is a partnership between the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bowie State University, and Maryland Department of Health. The partnership will support Maryland’s public behavioral health system in implementing best practices for trauma-informed and healing-centered care. This initiative seeks to reduce rates of trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) while decreasing disparities in mental health care.
 
By participating in the Learning Collaborative, the SMCHD behavioral health team will join a network of peers across the state to receive one year of training and technical assistance from the BHBHS collaborative. This training will help foster healing and supportive behavioral health services for the local community. 
 
“I’m proud of the work of Behavioral Health Director, Tammy Loewe, and our behavioral health team in being selected for this new initiative. The training we receive will help us enhance the care provided to our community members,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “We are excited to take part in this learning collaborative and look forward to doing all we can to strengthen behavioral health services for members of our community.”
 
For more information about the St. Mary’s County Health Department’s Behavioral Health programs and services, please visit smchd.org/behavioralhealth.

Maryland will provide more than than $34.6 million in Rural Legacy Program grants to county governments and land trusts to purchase conservation easements in designated Rural Legacy Areas throughout the state. The Board of Public Works unanimously approved the funding on August 23. 

“From Mountain Maryland to the coastal plains of the Eastern Shore, the Moore-Miller Administration is committed to maintaining the character of our state’s rural landscapes,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz, who serves as the chair of the Rural Legacy Board. “This record amount of funding will enable us to protect and preserve Maryland’s farms and forests with local nonprofit land trust partners, willing landowners, and county governments. The program allows us to work in partnership with these local sponsors to support rural economies while at the same time enhancing water quality and wildlife habitat.”

The Fiscal Year 2024 funding is the most annual funding appropriated since the program was established in 1997. The grants will permanently protect approximately 7,400 acres of working farms and forests, shorelines, wetlands, sensitive environmental areas, as well as natural and cultural resources throughout the state. 

This year’s 21 grant awards will conserve about 2,770 acres on the Eastern Shore, 1,280 acres in Southern Maryland, 1,580 acres in Central Maryland, and an estimated 1,770 acres in Western Maryland.

Additionally, the Board of Public Works approved an expansion of 246 acres for the Mattapany Rural Legacy Area in St. Mary’s County directly across from the Naval Air Station Patuxent River that will promote compatible development in the vicinity of this military installation.  

The Board of Public Works includes Governor Wes Moore, Comptroller Brooke Lierman, and Treasurer Dereck Davis. The grant awards were recommended by the Rural Legacy Board, which consists of the Secretaries of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Maryland Department of Agriculture, and the Maryland Department of Planning.

The Rural Legacy Program is designed to preserve large tracts of productive and valuable agricultural and forested lands that contain exceptional features. The program enables county governments or private land trust sponsors to purchase conservation easements from willing property owners in 35 locally-designated Rural Legacy Areas. The conservation easements prevent development of the property while requiring property owners to preserve and protect natural features of the land.

There is a Rural Legacy Area designated in all of Maryland’s 23 counties. The program has permanently protected more than 120,885 acres in its 24-year history.

Details of the grant awards are on the Board of Public Works website. The Department of Natural Resources will submit the individual contracts to purchase conservation easements to the Board of Public Works as the specific transactions are submitted by the sponsors.

(PIKESVILLE, MD.) — The Maryland State Police urge motorists to stay safe during the Labor Day weekend and avoid impaired, distracted and aggressive driving.

State troopers from all 23 barracks will conduct saturation patrols throughout the holiday weekend as part of the “No DUI Friday” National Highway Traffic Safety Administration initiative. Enforcement is bolstered by funds from the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office.

Statewide initiatives focus on preventing impaired, aggressive and distracted driving in areas where data indicates high numbers of crashes or arrests. The State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort team, or SPIDRE, will also be working to remove impaired drivers from Maryland roads.

SPIDRE, a specialized unit of trained troopers who are focused on identifying impaired drivers, has made more than 4,353 DUI arrests since its inception in May 2013. The team is funded by a grant from MDOT MVA Highway Safety Office and aims to reduce alcohol-related injuries and fatalities in Maryland.

The MDOT MVA Highway Safety Office said crashes are no accidents. There were on average 169 fatalities and 2,998 injuries annually from 2017 and 2021 due to impaired driving, according to the department. Nearly all of these deaths and injuries were preventable.

Among the planned initiatives:

• Anne Arundel County: The Annapolis and Glen Burnie barracks will focus enforcement efforts on routes 50, 295 and Interstate 97.
• Baltimore County: The Golden Ring Barrack will focus enforcement efforts on interstates 695, 795 and 83.
• Caroline, Dorchester and Talbot counties: The Easton Barrack will focus enforcement efforts on routes 50 and 404.
• Cecil and Harford counties: The JFK Memorial Highway, Bel Air and North East barracks will focus enforcement efforts on Interstate 95 and routes 1, 7, 24 and 40.
• Garrett County: The McHenry Barrack will focus enforcement efforts on Interstate 68 and Route 219.
• Kent and Queen Anne’s counties: The Centreville Barrack will focus enforcement efforts on routes 301, 20 and 50.
• Prince George’s County: The College Park and Forestville barracks will focus enforcement efforts on routes 5 and 50 and Interstate 495.
• Somerset County: The Princess Anne Barrack will focus enforcement efforts along routes 13 and 413.
• Washington County: The Hagerstown Barrack will conduct DUI saturation patrols on interstates 70 and 81.
• Wicomico County: The Salisbury Barrack will focus enforcement efforts on routes 50 and 13.

If you are attending a Labor Day gathering:

• Designate a sober driver in advance and give that person your car keys.
• If you’re planning on driving, then 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.
• Don’t drive distracted, text or use a cellphone that is not hands-free. Always buckle up.

If you are hosting a Labor 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.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Join the St. Mary's County Homelessness Prevention Board at Community Resource Day on Friday, September 8, 2023, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Lexington Park United Methodist Church, located at 21760 Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, MD.

Community Resource Day will offer information about housing, health checks, employment support, and much more! Community partners will be on site to provide some limited services and give out information. The Maryland Vehicle Association will be available to assist in obtaining a Maryland ID.

A free backpack full of supplies will be given to all attendees, while supplies last! Free lunch will be available.

Community Resource Day is sponsored by the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County and the St. Mary’s County Homelessness Prevention Board. For more information, please call (301) 475-4200, ext. 1680.

During the week of August 21 – August 27, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,572 calls for service throughout the community.

Theft: 23-59510

On August 24, 2023, Deputy Fleenor responded to a residence in the 11500 block of Hoofbeat Trail in Lusby, for report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between 10:30 p.m. on Aug. 23 and 4:30 a.m. on Aug. 24, unknown suspects stole the victim’s laptop and work documents from an unlocked vehicle. Dep. Fleenor located the laptop snapped in half laying in the roadway. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,100.00.

Property Destruction: 23-59157

On August 22, 2023, DFC Dymond responded to the 200 block of Fairground Road in Prince Frederick for report of property destruction. The complainant advised that two of his car tires had been slashed. The estimated value of damaged property is $410.00.

Theft: 23-58869

On August 21, 2023, M/DFC Burgraff responded to Holiday Drive in Solomons, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised her lawn furniture had been stolen sometime during the night. The table is described as wrought iron with a glass top and green in color. The estimated value of stolen property is $100.00.

Theft: 23-58856

On August 21, 2023, Dep. T. Bowen responded to the Sheriff’s Office located at 30 Church St. in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his Maryland registration plate had been stolen from the victim’s trailer. The estimated value of stolen property is $100.00.

Theft: 23-59146

On August 22, 2023, M/DFC Burgraff responded to a residence on Deer Court in Lusby, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle and rummaged through the vehicle’s center console and stole approximately $5.00. Nothing else appears to have been stolen.

ARRESTS

On August 24, 2023, Dep. Sylver responded to the area of West Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a suspicious person. Contact was made with Dylan Shane Chapman, 23 of no fixed address, walking out of the Safeway pushing a stroller with a backpack in it. Investigation revealed Chapman had been previously trespassed from the Safeway. Chapman was placed under arrest for Trespassing: Private Property.

PHILADELPHIA-- FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for St. Mary’s County, MD. Affected community members and partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Before the maps become final, community member and partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.

The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around August 31, 2023. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local Certified Floodplain Manager, Valerie Caswell, at valerie.caswell@stmaryscountymd.gov. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: CSLF Web Viewer, St. Mary's County, MD

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Public Forum & Information

St. Mary’s County Government will be holding a public forum for Saint Mary’s County citizens affected by the proposed map amendment on September 13th, 2023 from 2-4 PM & 6-8 PM in the Main Meeting Room of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street, Leonardtown, Maryland 20650. Local government staff, along with FEMA officials, will be available to answer questions and provide information on the mapping process, appeal process, flood insurance and potential mitigation opportunities.

St. Mary’s County, MD Flood Mapping Milestones

• November 22, 2021 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• November 29, 2022 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• January 26, 2023 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• On or Around August 31, 2023 –Appeal Period starts.
• September 13, 2023 – Public Forum for affected Saint Mary’s County citizens.
• August 2024* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business meeting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners presented a proclamation for Women’s Equality Day.

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

• Approved the Department of Emergency Services’ spending plan for the Maryland 9-1-1 Board Trust Fund, Project MD2438.
• Approved updates and changes to the American Rescue Plan.

The CSMC will not meet next Tuesday, September 5, 2023. The Commissioner’s next regular business meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings are open to the public 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.

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

The Board of Education of Charles County has extended the deadline for applicants interested in filling the vacated District 1 seat on the Board of Education. Applications will now be accepted through 4 p.m., Friday, Sept. 15.  

The Board wants to ensure that all applicants have an opportunity to receive and return the application package. The Board expects interviews to be completed in October. The successful applicant:  

• Must be a resident and registered voter in Charles County for at least three years.  
• Must be a resident of Commissioner District 1, preferably for at least three years.  
• Must be at least 21 years old; and  
• Must NOT be employed by or under the direction of the Board of Education of Charles County or the Superintendent of Charles County Public Schools (CCPS).  

Applicants will have their District 1 residency and voter requirements verified prior to consideration by the Board. Additionally, applicants must be able to pass a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) background check, which is standard for all CCPS employees.  

Interested applicants should recognize the time commitments expected for members of the Board and should only apply if able, at a minimum, to fulfill these commitments.  The Board meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month starting at noon (sometimes earlier) and ending after 7 p.m. There are monthly work sessions on the 4th Monday of each month beginning as early as 4:30 p.m.  

All interested applicants shall provide:  

1. A one-page cover letter;  
2. A one-page resume; and  
3. A completed Financial Disclosure Statement.  

Items (1) and (2) shall be submitted electronically and via mail or in person to Kessandra Stubblefield, executive assistant to the Board, at kstubblefield@ccboe.com, Charles County Public Schools, P.O. Box 2770, 5980 Radio Station Rd, La Plata, MD 20646. A blank Financial Disclosure Statement may be obtained from Ms. Stubblefield, and the completed and notarized form shall be returned to Ms. Stubblefield either by mail or in person. Items (1), (2) and (3) must be received by Sept. 15, 2023.  

The Board will interview all qualified applicants. Applicants will be notified at least two weeks prior to their interview and the interview questions will be provided in advance.  

The Board commits to selecting an applicant regardless of sex, race, age, religion, ancestry or national origin, color, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.  

Any questions concerning the application process can be submitted to Ms. Stubblefield by email at kstubblefield@ccboe.com.  

The Calvert County Election Board will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, at 7 p.m., to gather public feedback on proposed changes to polling place locations. The meeting is open to the public and will be held in the auditorium at the Calvert Pines Senior Center, located at 450 W. Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick. Members of the public may also participate virtually through Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81209921390.

The following changes are being proposed:

·         Changing the precinct boundary between Precinct 1-3 (St. Leonard Elementary School) and Precinct 1-4 (Mutual Elementary School). 

·         Changing the location of the polling place for Precinct 1-5 from Patuxent Appeal Elementary Campus (35 Appeal Lane, Lusby) to Southern Community Center (20 Appeal Lane, Lusby).

·         Changing the location of the polling place for Precinct 1-7 from Mill Creek Middle School (12200 Southern Connector Blvd., Lusby) to Patuxent High School (12485 Southern Connector Blvd., Lusby).

·         Changing the location of Precinct 3-6 from Northern Middle School (2954 Chaneyville Road, Owings) to Northern High School (2950 Chaneyville Road, Owings).

·         Changing the location of Precinct 3-7 from Fairview Vote Center (8120 Southern Maryland Blvd., Owings) to Northern High School (2950 Chaneyville Road, Owings).

The public comment period will stay open for 10 days after the meeting. Comments may be emailed to elections@calvertcountymd.gov or sent by mail to Calvert County Board of Elections, P.O. Box 798, Prince Frederick, MD 20678. For more information, residents may contact the Election Board office at 410-535-2214.

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.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Austin Dylan Winbush, 24, of Capitol Heights, Maryland, was sentenced to life suspend all but 25 years of active incarceration in prison for attempted first-degree murder.

Following a three-day jury trial, a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Mr. Winbush on March 23, 2023, of attempted first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence and having a loaded handgun. The charges stemmed from a May 5, 2021, shooting that took place in Lexington Park, MD.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Jeff Maylor, Chief of the Major Crimes Unit, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

The Honorable Amy D. Lorenzini presided over the case.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – The Department of Defense earlier this year announced changes to base access procedures for federal civilian retirees, with new credentials required for base access. The Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness issued a memorandum in February canceling the Department of Defense (DoD) civilian retiree identification card effective Aug. 31, 2023. New DoD civilian retiree IDs will no longer be issued, and federal civilian retirees seeking access to Navy installations, including Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities, will now need to apply for a Defense Biometric Identifications Systems (DBIDS) ID card. The Navy followed suit by issuing instructions to Navy installations regarding the change. “Previously issued DoD Civilian Retiree ID cards will remain valid through 31 August 2023, at which point they will no longer be accepted as a valid form of ID,” stated NAVADMIN 105/23, signed by Vice Adm. Ricky Williamson, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Fleet Readiness and Logistics. “Personnel shall coordinate with the respective Visitor Control Center (VCC) where they will be processed in accordance with local policy. DBIDS credentials will be issued to eligible personnel upon positive identification of the individual, visual inspection of an SF-50 indicating retirement from civilian government service, and vetting for fitness.” Per NAVADMIN 105/23, the limited use of MWR activities by DoD civilian retirees will remain at the discretion of the installation Commanding Officer. Retired DoD civilians can obtain a DBIDs card through the NAS Patuxent River VCC in accordance with instruction, which they would use for base and MWR facility access as they would a DoD ID. “Pax River has a large civilian population compared to some other Navy bases, so our VCC staff have been made aware to expect more DBIDS applications as a result of this policy,” said LT Charles Whittenton, NAS Patuxent River Security Officer. “The DoD civilians who have served our country to retirement and wish to access the base will still be able to do so, just with a different credential in accordance with DoD and Navy policy.” To streamline the process, eligible personnel can choose between two options for the required background check. They can either complete the SECNAV Form 5512/1 and bring it to the VCC, or pre-register their information online using the DBIDS pre-registration portal and bring the accompanying QR code to the VCC. The DBIDS credentials issued to eligible personnel will NEWS RELEASE NAVAL AIR STATION, PATUXENT RIVER PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT O: 301-757-3343 Patrick.a.gordon10.civ@us.navy.mil Facebook: www.facebook.com/NASPaxRiver Twitter: @NASPaxRiverPAO 2 include "MWR Facility Privileges" on the back in the "Remarks" box and will be categorized under "Facility Use" during enrollment. The validity of DBIDS credentials extends up to three years. “It's important to understand that an individual will need to provision their DBIDS credential at each installation they intend to access, and access at every installation is at the discretion of that installation’s Commanding Officer,” added Whittenton. “However, the background check component of enrollment will have already been completed during the initial installation visit. This means that subsequent installations will primarily focus on establishing identity and purpose, potentially granting access based on the commanding officer's discretion.” Visit https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/i-9.pdf for more information on acceptable forms of identification. For the background portion, eligible personnel are encouraged to either complete the SECNAV Form 5512/1 and bring to the VCC or pre-register their information online at https://dbids-globalenroll.dmdc.mil/preenrollui/#!/ and bring the accompanying QR code to the VCC in order to streamline wait times at the Navy installation’s VCC. For questions regarding base access at NAS Patuxent River, contact the NAS Pax River VCC at (301) 342-3231/8140 or Alex Collins, VCC Supervisor at alex.j.collins2.civ@us.navy.mil. 

Sunday afternoon around 12:29 p.m. forty three firefighters were called to 629 Clarks Run Road, La Plata, Charles County, Maryland for a fire at a 2 story split-foyer siggle family dwelling. It took them about 29 minutes to put the fire out. There were no injures as a result of the fire.  The fire was determined to have started within the attic of the home.  This fire is under investigation. Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Southern Regional Office, at 443-550-6835.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for St. Mary’s County, MD. Community members and partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state, and FEMA officials. Before the maps become final, community members and local organizations can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. These determinations were made after a multi-year project to re-examine St. Mary’s County’s riverine (non-coastal) flood zones and develop detailed, digital flood hazard maps.  If you are an affected property owner you will receive notification letters, the first round of notification letters was mailed on August 24, 2023.   

The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around August 31, 2023. Residents, businesses, and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

The preliminary maps may be viewed online via the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer at: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator, Valerie Caswell, at valerie.caswell@stmaryscountymd.gov. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online via the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM (CSLF) Viewer.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email to FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting floodsmart.gov.

Public Forum & Information

St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) will host two public forums on September 13, 2023, at 2 p.m. and at 6 p.m., in the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) Meeting Room of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. SMCG staff, along with FEMA officials, will be available to answer questions and provide information on the mapping process, appeal process, flood insurance, and potential mitigation opportunities.

St. Mary’s County, MD Flood Mapping Milestones:

• November 22, 2021 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• November 29, 2022 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• January 26, 2023 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• August 31, 2023 — Appeal Period starts.
• September 13, 2023 — St. Mary’s County Public Forum.
• November 29, 2023 — Appeal Period ends.
• August 2024* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (August 28, 2023) - The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be closed on Monday, September 4, 2023 for the Memorial Day holiday. This includes the main office in Leonardtown and all satellite offices. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.   

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

WASHINGTON (7News) — A suspect is in custody after a 17-year-old girl was stabbed to death in northwest Washington, D.C. early Sunday morning, according to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

Around 2:10 a.m., officers were called to a local hospital for a report of a juvenile girl seeking treatment for stab wounds, police said. Despite all life-saving efforts, officials said Naima Liggon, of Waldorf, Md. died from her injuries.

Authorities said the stabbing happened both inside and outside of a business in the 1900 block of 14th Street NW. Liggon was transported to a local hospital in a privately owned vehicle, officials said.

A 16-year-old Waldorf girl was arrested and charged with murder while armed. At the time of her arrest, she was found to be in possession of a knife, authorities said.

No further details were immediately available.

However, 7News confirmed Liggon was a student at Thomas Stone High School in Waldorf, and Charles County students return to class today.

A spokesperson for Charles County Public Schools confirmed that the "...principal plans to meet with staff prior to the start of the school day and have additional supports for students."

Just 10 days ago, D.C. leaders also announced plans for a youth curfew for those 16 years old and under, starting on September 1. The curfew would include the area of Sunday's stabbing, which is near the busy and popular U Street--lined with restaurants, shops and nightlife--as well as the areas around Howard University.

"Yeah, it’s horrible, it’s like every day now, you just get used to it at this point," Northwest DC resident Matt Bartlett said. "It’s horrible."

Bartlett lives near the crime scene and told 7News he welcomes any and all action against rising crime in the District--youth and otherwise.

"Well, we need more cops," Bartlett said. "We need more cops, for sure, I mean they’re so understaffed.

"Whenever there’s like an emergency the cops take forever to get there--you don’t feel safe a lot of the time here, I’ll say that."

7News has reported on multiple recruitment efforts by MPD.

MPD also confirmed to 7News that so far this year, 13 juveniles have been fatally shot or stabbed, compared to 18 juveniles fatally shot or stabbed in all of last year.

On Friday evening, a Corrections Officer was seriously assaulted by an inmate at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center. While standing her post, Corrections Officer Hannah Suite was approached by inmate Kamisha Raquel Thomas (30 year old female) who threw a cup of liquid at C/O Suite and then suddenly and violently attacked the Corrections Officer. Inmate Thomas repeatedly struck C/O Suite in the face and head in an attempt to gain a position of advantage. C/O Suite was able to summons help using her radio as she was blocking the repeated blows from the inmate. At that time, several females incarcerated in the unit came to the aid of the Corrections Officer and were able to help stop the assault. C/O Suite was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital where she was treated for several abrasions, a laceration to her left eyebrow, hematomas, and the possibility of a concussion. Saturday afternoon, Sheriff Steve Hall visited Corrections Officer Suite at her house and awarded her the Sheriff’s Office Purple Heart Medal. Sheriff Hall remarked, “Our Corrections Staff are an integral part of the Sheriff’s Office. Day in and day out, they deal with those incarcerated at our Detention and Rehabilitation Center. They are the “silent line” of security - you rarely see them, but they are working 24/7 to protect the community. This was a brutal assault on a Corrections Officer, and we are thankful that Hannah did not receive life threatening injuries. I am very proud of the way she stood her ground and St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office 23150 Leonard Hall Drive Leonardtown, MD 20650 (301) 475 – 4040 refused to give up until help could arrive.” Sheriff Hall added, “I am grateful for the inmates who came to the aid of the Corrections Officer; it’s a testament to the respect the inmates had for C/O Suite and that there is a lot of good within the detention center. This incident illustrates what Corrections Officers deal with on a daily basis - the worst and the best of human behavior.” Inmate Thomas was charged with 1st Degree Assault, 2nd Degree Assault, 1st Degree Assault on a DOC employee and 2nd Degree Assault on a DOC employee. 

Calvert County residents can help improve their county government services by participating in a new community survey that aims to help officials better understand residents’ priorities, concerns on county services and overall quality of life. Residents who responded previously are encouraged to respond again.

The latest survey is available at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Survey and asks residents to rate their experience with different aspects of life in Calvert County including housing, education, transportation and public safety. Feedback will be used by county officials and staff to better identify and understand concerns and enhance the county’s responsiveness to community issues.

Survey responses are confidential and anonymous; however, a respondent may choose to share their email address if they wish to receive updates about future surveys. The survey will not collect an individual’s name, address or any other identifying information.

Calvert County Government conducted its first community survey between January and June 2023, which saw more than 1,000 responses. Seventy-five percent of those surveyed indicated they are satisfied with life in Calvert County, particularly with libraries, safety, education, and parks and recreation. Areas of life that respondents are less satisfied with include access to affordable housing, permit and zoning processes, jobs that pay a living wage, and public transportation services. Overall satisfaction and high scores on safety indicate that this is an important area to maintain, while overall satisfaction and low scores indicate that a sense of community is an important area to focus on. These responses are being used by county officials and staff to enhance existing services and develop new programs. Find the full report available online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/SurveyResults.

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 Calvert County Board of County Commissioners announces county offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 4 in observance of Labor Day. In addition:

• The Appeal Solid Waste Facility, which includes the landfill and transfer station, and all county customer convenience centers will be closed on Monday, Sept. 4 and will reopen with normal hours Tuesday, Sept. 5.
• The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office and the Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be closed Monday, Sept. 4.
• Calvert County senior centers will be closed Monday, Sept. 4, and Meals on Wheels will not be delivered. Meal delivery is set to resume on Sept. 5.
• All community centers will be closed Monday, Sept. 4.
• There will be no county bus service Monday, Sept. 4. Regular service will resume Tuesday, Sept. 5.
• Calvert Library locations will be closed Saturday, Sept. 2 through Monday, Sept. 4. Downloadable materials and virtual services are available 24/7 at CalvertLibrary.info.
• The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed Monday, Sept. 4. Animal Control Officers will be available for emergencies at 410-535-3491.
• Kings Landing pool will be open Sept. 4 from 11 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
• Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center is closed for maintenance but will reopen Tuesday, Sept. 5 with normal operating hours of 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Cove Point Pool will be open with regular hours Monday, Sept. 4 from 11 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.
• The Calvert Marine Museum and Museum Store will be open with normal hours Monday, Sept. 4. Celebrate Labor Day with a one-hour cruise on the Wm. B. Tennison.  For more information and to register visit www.calvertmarinemuseum.com/237/Wm-B-Tennison-Cruises.
• All recreation parks including Dunkirk District Park, Ward Farm Recreation & Nature Park, Hallowing Point Park and Cove Point Park, will be open with normal hours on Monday, Sept. 4.
• Chesapeake Hills Golf Course will be open Monday, Sept. 4, with normal hours.
• Flag Ponds Nature Park and Kings Landing Park will be open with regular hours on Monday, Sept. 4. Starting Sept. 5, Flag Ponds Nature Park will be closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Battle Creek Cypress Swamp and Sanctuary nature center remains closed due to fire damage, however the trails are open. For a full nature park schedule, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/1505/Park-Hours.
• Breezy Point Beach will be open with extended holiday hours on Monday, Sept 4, from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. but the campground remains closed for both short-term and seasonal camping for the completion of an extensive shoreline restoration project.

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.

(CHESTERTOWN, MD) -- No serious injuries were reported by the pilot and passenger of a small seaplane that reportedly stalled in the air forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing in St. Mary’s County. 

The pilot is identified as Anthony Copozzi, 63, of Venice, Florida.  The passenger is identified as Charles O’Brien, IV, 35, of Leonardtown, MD.   Neither the pilot nor passenger reported any injuries. 

The plane involved is a Cessna 185 equipped with pontoons.  Shortly after 5:30 p.m. today, Maryland State Police at the Leonardtown Barrack were dispatched to the report of a plane crash at a field off of Bayside Road near Montpelier Road in Clements, Maryland.  Arriving troopers found the plane resting on its roof in a cornfield. No one on the ground was injured. 

The preliminary investigation indicates the pilot reported he was forced to perform an emergency landing after the aircraft suffered engine failure and stalled.  State Police notified officials from the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.  Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene to assist along with Charles County HAZMAT.

The investigation is ongoing.

This year on International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31st, St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) and Beacon of Hope Recovery Community Center, a Program of Pyramid Healthcare, will be honoring the individuals and families whose lives have been affected by drug overdose. This includes family and friends grieving the loss of a loved one; workers in healthcare and support services who extend their strength and compassion; and first responders who selflessly assume the role of lifesaver.  International Overdose Awareness Day raises the community's understanding about drug overdose risks, substance use treatment, how to respond to an overdose, and how to overcome stigma in overdose prevention.  

SMCHD, in partnership with Beacon of Hope Recovery Community Center, will be hosting a “Walk and Share” event on August 31, 2023 at the Church of the Ascension in Lexington Park from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. 

Join us for:

• Candlelight vigil at 6:30 p.m.
• Peer support
• Naloxone (Narcan) training
• Anti-Stigma information

“We want to recognize and support the many persons whose lives and families have been impacted by drug use and overdose, including those who care for loved ones struggling with the illness of addiction,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Events like this are an important resource as we address stigma and educate our community members on how to get help.”  

“We hope that this event helps those going through this pain feel seen and supported,” said Laura Stewart Webb, Director of Engagement and Special Projects for Pyramid Healthcare. “If you are going through this, you are not alone. Help and community is available.”

For more information, please contact Laura Stewart Webb at 240-808-1875 or by email at lwebb@pyramidwalden.com or visit firstrecoverysomd.org/.

For more information about the Go Purple initiative to end stigma around mental health concerns and substance use disorders, please visit smchd.org/gopurple.

August 24, 2023

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Maryland State Police and the Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS) remind motorists to stop for school buses as students return to class next week.

Drivers must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus with the stop arm extended and the red lights flashing. Do not pass the bus from any direction until the stop signals are off and the bus is moving again. Motorists in Maryland are not required to stop if the road is separated by a physical median – such as dirt, grass, or a barrier.

Millions of children ride school buses and are most at risk when they get on or off the bus. There were 1,009 fatal school-transportation-related crashes from 2011 to 2020, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The MCSS encourages Marylanders and visitors to:

• Pay attention when driving, especially in school zones and during times of day when school buses are typically on routes.
• Stop when a bus stops. It is illegal to pass a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended when it has stopped to load or unload students.
• Prepare to stop when the school bus is flashing its yellow lights and be cautious of students beginning to move toward the bus during these times.
• Students of all ages are unpredictable. Therefore, prepare for the unexpected and maintain a safe distance from school buses at all times.

Violators who are stopped by a police officer face a fine of up to $570 and three points on their driver’s licenses. Infractions carry a monetary penalty for each violation. For additional school bus safety tips, visit the Maryland Highway Safety Office.

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CONTACTS: MSP Office of Media Communication, msp.media@maryland.gov

The MD Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation purchased 14 new agricultural easements in 9 counties. The program buys development rights from farmers to keep land in farming, the state’s goal is to preserve 1 million acres. Maryland has wine and brewery trails that include preserved farms, as well as an ice cream trail. Easement acquisitions are funded by the Program Open Space fund. Comments from Michelle Cable, executive director, Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.

The Maryland Board of Public Works recently approved the preservation of several working farms. The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation purchased 14 new agricultural easements across 9 counties in the state representing over 14-hundred acres. The program purchases development rights from farmers so the land will be kept as farmland in perpetuity. Foundation Executive Director Michelle Cable says farms are a critical part of the state's infrastructure.

 "Agriculture is the number one industry in Maryland, and being able to keep the land in farming is a critical tool to be able to keep that industry going. "

In 2002 the state established a goal of preserving 1 million acres of farmland by 2030. She says they are at 86-percent of that goal.

Cable says some of the working farms in the easement program include wineries, breweries and other producers that might surprise people.

"One of my favorite things, you'll read about different states that have like wine trails, and they go around. Maryland actually has an ice cream trail. So, all of these ice cream creameries are on farm dairies that produce and make their own ice cream."

The easement acquisitions are funded by the Program Open Space fund, which established a half percent transfer tax on land transactions in 1969 as a mechanism for funding land conservation in the state. Cable says the Program Open Space fund supports several land preservation projects in addition to funding the purchase of agricultural easements.

"That money goes toward land conservation efforts. We get a percentage of it for our agricultural easement program. Department of Natural Resources get a good percent of it for their parklands or forest land, their easement programs, wildlife heritage programs, parks and playgrounds, more urban and suburban parks as well, and playgrounds."

This round of farm easements were purchased for just over $8 million.

The Charles County Environmental Resources Division invites residents to get rid of scrap tires free of charge at the Scrap Tire Drop-off Day event on Saturday, Sept. 23, and Saturday, Sept. 30. Collection times are 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the Charles County Landfill (12305 Billingsley Road, Waldorf).

Charles County residents may recycle up to 10 scrap tires. All tire types will be accepted except Track tires.  This disposal event is not available to commercial vehicles and businesses. Each person dropping off tires should be prepared to show proof of residency. In addition to scrap tires being unsightly, scrap tire piles can spark fires and are ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

For more information, visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/scraptireday or call the Charles County Department of Public Works, Environmental Resources Division at 301-932-3599. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling’s partnership with the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation brought together youth and law enforcement partners for the first-ever Badges for Basketball clinic this past Saturday at the Carver Recreation Center in Lexington Park. Badges clinics and camps occur worldwide, but 2023 marks the debut of a St. Mary’s County event.

Thanks to a generous grant from the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, every youth received a t-shirt, a mini basketball, and a backpack stuffed with goodies. Yolanda Berry, the grandmother of two of the participants, described her grandsons’ experiences: "…they could not stop talking about how much fun they had and the friends they made along the way.”

Youth from around St. Mary’s County spent the morning having fun and honing their basketball skills while also learning about Healthy Choices – Healthy Lifestyles alongside State’s Attorney’s Office staff, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Troopers from the Maryland State Police Leonardtown Barrack and staff from the Department of Recreation and Parks.

“With the tremendous success of our inaugural event, we hope to plan additional Badges events in St. Mary’s County, and I look forward to additional youth in our community sharing in the experience,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling.

During the week of August 14 – August 20, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,489 calls for service throughout the community.

Damaged Property: 23-57321

On August 14, 2023, Deputy Sylver responded to the Advance Auto Parts located at 635 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised an unknown suspect(s) broke into a transport vehicle an attempted to steal the driver side door by snapping it off the hinges. The glass window to the door was also broken out. The estimated value of damaged property is $1200.00.

Damaged Property: 23-58534

On August 19, 2023, Deputy Lee responded to a residence in the 4200 block of Baden Drive in Huntingtown, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised a rear basement window had been damaged. Deputy Lee observed the window screen had been ripped out and the window pane had been broken. The estimated value of damaged property is $500.00.

Motor Vehicle Theft: 23-58003

On August 17, 2023, DFC Kwitowski responded to the 4200 block of Broomes Island Road in Port Republic, for the report of a vehicle theft. The complainant advised sometime between 12:30 a.m. and 6 a.m., an unknown suspect (s) stole the victim’s vehicle and an attached trailer from his yard. Deputies were able to track the vehicle to an address in the 6000 block of Mackall Road in St. Leonard. The victim’s wallet and $2,800 in cash were missing. This case remains under investigation.

Theft: 23-57401

On August 14, 2023, Cpl. Durner responded to the Sheriff’s Office located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for a report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between Aug. 7 and Aug. 14, an unknown suspect (s) stole 20 donated bicycles from the Bikes Across the World donation box located at 3205 Broomes Island Road in Port Republic. The estimated value of stolen property is $2000.00.

ARRESTS

On August 19, 2023, DFC Shoemaker responded to the area of Patuxent Point Parkway in Solomons, for a traffic complaint (a green van all over the roadway). The Calvert County Emergency Communication Center advised an adult male driving the green van had pulled into a parking lot and was yelling at bystanders. The male identified as Charles Raymond Corbin, 48 of Lusby, was screaming vulgar statements and waving his warms in the air, capturing the attention of patrons in the shopping center. Corbin was given multiple commands to stop being disorderly to which he failed to comply. Corbin was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Intoxicated Public Disturbance.

On August 18, 2023, at 6:17 p.m., Dep. Smith responded to the Safeway located at 80 W. Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a female urinating on the sidewalk. According to witnesses, Jean Darlene Ross, 38 of Bellflower, CA, squatted near the entrance to the Safeway and urinated on the sidewalk in full view of the public and patrons of the shopping center. Ross was issued a Trespass warning and was advised to leave the area. At approximately 8 p.m., Dep. Smith responded to 140 W. Dares Beach Road in the area of the TJ Max in Prince Frederick, for the report of a female urinating on the sidewalk in full view of the public. Investigation revealed Ross was observed once again squatting and urinating on the sidewalk between the Safeway and W. Dares Beach Road. Witnesses also observed Ross cross into traffic without yielding making her a danger to the public and herself. Ross was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where she was charged with Indecent Exposure, Disorderly Conduct, and Intoxicated Public Disturbance.
 

On August 14, 2023, Cpl. Shrawder responded to the 7-Eleven located at 685 Prince Frederick Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a black male entered the store and stole a carton of Newport 100s cigarettes and a Red Bull energy drink then fled without paying for the items. The complainant followed the suspect until police arrived in the area. Cpl. Shrawder pulled up in his marked patrol vehicle with emergency equipment activated at which point the suspect began to run to evade police. After a brief foot pursuit, the suspect, Keith Jamael Francis, 30 of Lanham, was taken into custody. A search of Francis’s person revealed the stolen items. Francis was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Theft: $100 - $1500, Resisting Arrest, and Failure to Obey a Lawful Order.

STERLING, Va. – There’s never a dull moment for U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists at Washington Dulles International Airport. Two recent seizures from travelers arriving from Vietnam helped to illustrate that point.

The first traveler, who arrived on August 1 and was destined to Fairfax, Va., was referred to a secondary baggage examination. CBP agriculture specialists and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) inspectors discovered prohibited pork, but also found 77 dry seahorses, five jars of snail ointment, and five dead snakes.

The import of the seahorses, snakes, and snail ointment without the necessary permits or documentation violated several laws and regulations, including provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and the Lacey Act.

Additionally, uncertified pork products from Vietnam are prohibited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture due to the potential introduction of the dangerous African swine fever and swine vesicular disease.

The second traveler, who arrived on August 4 and was destined to San Francisco, was referred to a secondary baggage examination. CBP agriculture specialists and USFWS wildlife inspectors discovered four prohibited pork products and 50 small boxes of a commercial herbal liquid medicine that listed its ingredients as snake oil.

The USFWS regulates the importation of wildlife, including snake oil and other wildlife parts and products.

CBP agriculture specialists seized all prohibited products and turned them over to USFWS inspectors. The USFWS investigation continues.

“Though we may consider some animal-based products to be unusual, people in other parts of the world may consider them to be normal. However, travelers visiting the United States should understand that Customs and Border Protection is committed to protecting our nation’s agricultural industries and enforcing our wildlife and import laws which may result in the seizure of their animal-based products,” said Christine Waugh, CBP’s Acting Area Port Director for the Area Port of Washington, D.C. “CBP agriculture specialists continue to work side-by-side with our U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service partners to educate travelers by holding them accountable when they arrive with illegal or prohibited products.”

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and the U.S. Endangered Species Act regulate the international trade in wildlife and animal-based products.

“Travelers can help protect wildlife and themselves by knowing what they are allowed to bring with them, whether traveling to or from the United States. All wildlife items that are imported to or exported from the U.S. — parts, products, or live animals — must be accompanied by proper documentation and declared,” said Ryan Noel, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement in the Northeast Region. “We are grateful for our close collaboration with partners like U.S. Customs and Border Protection to help prevent the exploitation of our fish and wildlife resources and safeguard public health through vigilance at our ports of entry.”

According to CITES, illicit wildlife trade remains an international concern and is the leading cause pushing certain species to extinction.

The international trade in wildlife is estimated to be in the billions of dollars. Animals and plants are being exploited for a wide variety of consumer goods, including live and taxidermied specimens, food products, jewelry, clothing and accessories, musical instruments, tourist souvenirs, and many more products. CITES is one of the major international cooperation agreements that regulates lawful wildlife trade with the goal to safeguard wildlife from over-exploitation.

The mission of the USFWS Office of Law Enforcement is to protect wildlife and plant resources through the effective enforcement of U.S. federal laws, regulations, and treaties. The Office of Law Enforcement regulates all movement of wildlife in, out and through the U.S.to combat wildlife trafficking, prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species, and promote the conservation of species internationally.

CBP's border security mission is led at our nation’s Ports of Entry by CBP officers and agriculture specialists from the Office of Field Operations. CBP screens international travelers and cargo and searches for illicit narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, counterfeit consumer goods, prohibited agriculture, invasive weeds and pests, and other illicit products that could potentially harm the American public, U.S. businesses, and our nation’s safety and economic vitality.

Learn what CBP accomplished during "A Typical Day" in 2022 and learn more about CBP at www.CBP.gov.

Follow the Director of CBP’s Baltimore Field Office on Twitter at @DFOBaltimore for breaking news, current events, human interest stories and photos, and CBP’s Office of Field Operations on Instagram at @cbpfieldops.

BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Maryland’s senior senator, released the following statement as local schools begin the 2023-2024 academic year.

“Education opens doors to greater opportunity, which makes back-to-school season one of my favorites. I want to wish all the Maryland students and educators who are heading back to school today and in the coming weeks the very best for a dynamic and productive school year in a safe and supportive environment. Students in every corner of our state, regardless of zip code, deserve an accessible, high-quality education and educators who have the training and resources to meet their needs.

“As your senator, I consider it my responsibility to work at the federal level to support state and local community leaders to create an atmosphere in which students can grow into responsible citizens, accomplished academics, revolutionary scientists, and changemakers in any field that draws them. To empower our young people, we sincerely must address the issues that disrupt their ability to learn, chief among them being gun violence, food insecurity and a lack of reliable internet access.

“Last year’s passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act broke the decades-long gridlock on gun safety, allocating funding for community violence intervention and prevention initiatives, as well as school-based mental health service providers. Still, Congress must advance more legislative solutions, from banning assault weapons to strengthening background checks to ending gun manufacturers’ immunity from liability. IN addition, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act invests $65 billion in broadband infrastructure, including funding for planning, deployment, and adoption, with dedicated funding to focus on improving digital equity. While the expanded access to free school meals established during the COVID-19 pandemic has expired, I support President Biden’s efforts to build on that progress and ensure access to free healthy school meals for all students. In one of the richest countries in the world, no student should be in the classroom hungry.

“Education is the bedrock of our society and educators are heroes of public service. Together, we can ensure our students are on the right track for greater learning and personal success.”

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

Monday, September 4 (Labor Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville are closed.
• The Charles County Landfill, all Recycling Centers, and the Piney Church Road Mulch Facility are closed.
• Curbside recycling and yard waste collection will be delayed one day for the remaining week, Tuesday, Sept. 5 through Saturday, Sept. 9.
• VanGO services will not be operating.
• The Nanjemoy Community Center, Senior Centers, Port Tobacco Recreation Center, Elite Gymnastics, Waldorf Senior Recreational Center, and all school-based community centers are closed.
• The following indoor pools will be open Noon - 5 p.m. for open swim: Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point. Lackey pool will be 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.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) officially kicks off the 2023-2024 school year on Monday, Aug. 28. More than 28,000 students in kindergarten through Grade 12 are expected to start school Monday.   

About 82% of students – which is roughly 23,000 children – use CCPS bus transportation to and from school. CCPS contracts most of its transportation services with 24 privately-owned Charles County bus contractors. These vendors employ 282 bus drivers, substitute drivers and bus attendants. CCPS directly employs about 38 drivers who also cover daily bus routes.  

According to a press release issued yesterday by the Charles County School Bus Contractors Association (CCSBCA), CCPS was facing a possible disruption to transportation services over bus contract concerns. Concerns raised by contractors included the lack of an eight-hour minimum workday for contracted drivers/attendants, an adequate cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) percentage and a multi-year contract.  

To avoid any disruption in transportation services for students and their families, CCPS has agreed to work with the CCSBCA to develop a multi-year transportation agreement with school bus contractors. Additionally, CCPS will increase the guaranteed paid hours for contracted bus drivers and attendants who cover a shift of four hours or more to eight hours for the 2023-2024 school year, regardless of if they work a full eight hours. However, drivers who work less than four hours will be paid a minimum of six hours. All contracted bus drivers and attendants will also get a 5% COLA (see chart below for a breakdown). As provided in the contract with bus contractors, contractors can pay above these levels.  

Cost to CCPS to implement an eight-hour workday for contracted drivers and attendants, and provide the 5% COLA, for the 2023-2024 school year is about $2 million. CCPS will pull $400,000 from within the current transportation budget, with the remaining $1.6 million to be pulled from instructional programs and staffing. When CCPS pulls funding from instructional areas, students are directly impacted.  

The Board of Education of Charles County met Aug. 22 with Superintendent of Schools Maria Navarro, Ed.D., to discuss the implementation of an eight-hour workday for contracted bus drivers and attendants. The Board agreed to support CCPS offering a minimum eight-hour workday for contracted drivers and attendants as part of the 2023-2024 bus contract. The Board also spoke in support of Superintendent Navarro and staff continuing to work with the CCSBCA to develop a multi-year contract. During the Board’s executive session meeting today, Superintendent Navarro discussed with the Board areas of the budget that may be impacted, including instructional programs for students, or funding allocated for extended-learning programs, such as summer school and summer boost. The Board was not in support of cutting any extended-learning programs for students and recognized that other instructional areas may be affected.   

“A successful start to the school year for all students is my top priority. While many of our students have parents or family members who could take them to school, many children do not, and their families rely on bus transportation to get their children to and from school. When students miss school, not only are they missing instruction, but many rely on meals provided at school. It is my job to ensure all school-aged children in Charles County come to school and have resources to ensure they succeed,” Navarro said. “Since I began my tenure as Superintendent, I have consistently strived to listen to concerns and interests shared by contracted bus drivers and attendants along with bus contractors. In my three years in Charles County, salaries and COLA percentages have increased each year for contracted bus drivers and attendants. I will continue to ensure that not only are CCPS employed staff members receiving salary and COLA increases whenever possible, but those committed to driving students to and from school safely each day are fairly compensated as well,” Navarro said.  

The CCSBCA, according to its website, represents 24 Charles County privately owned bus contractor companies. As of Aug. 22, none of the 24 independent bus contractors have signed contracts for the coming school year. CCPS has already provided about $500,000 in administrative fee funding to contractors for the new school year. In prior school years, CCPS began the school year without signed bus contract agreements in place and full transportation service continued. CCPS staff will amend the previously offered contract to include the 5% COLA and an eight-hour minimum workday for contracted drivers and attendants.  

Discussions with CCPS bus contractors, drivers and attendants have been ongoing for the past several months and are typically held annually regarding bus services for the coming school year. These discussions addressed their concerns, including paying all drivers and attendants for an eight-hour workday, regardless of if they worked those hours or not.  

Staff, Board of Education members, local and state elected officials, contractor representatives, driver and attendant representatives and Superintendent Navarro have been meeting with members of a transportation task force required by the Maryland General Assembly to study school bus operations and wages. Members of the task force also advocated for an eight-hour minimum workday and a 5% COLA for contracted bus drivers and attendants, as well as exploring a multi-year contract to provide job security.  

The task force met today for its fifth meeting and members agreed to a 45-day window for CCPS to address concerns raised by contractors, drivers and attendants, and recommendations made through task force meetings. CCPS does not anticipate any bus service interruptions when school starts next week. Any back-to-school updates for the coming school year will be posted at www.ccboe.com.    

About CCPS  

Charles County Public Schools provides 27,598 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 37 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.  

BALTIMORE – The Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation today announced the implementation of its 2023 Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, urging Marylanders to consider whether they may be eligible to receive a homeowners’ or renters’ property tax credit. The deadline to file for both tax credits is October 1, 2023.

“The Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation is pleased to offer these tax relief programs to assist Marylanders who pay high property taxes or rent relative to their income,” said Director Michael Higgs. “Determining eligibility and filing online is fast and easy thanks to our online tax credit application system, and I encourage all Marylanders to learn more about these programs by visiting our website.”

The quickest and easiest way to find out more information and submit an application is by accessing the innovative online tax credit application system, which strengthens the department’s ability to continue processing all tax credit applications in an accurate and timely manner. 

This month, the department is mailing nearly 140,000 postcards to low-income Maryland homeowners who may be eligible to receive a credit but have not yet submitted an application. The Homeowners' Property Tax Credit Program provides relief for eligible homeowners by setting a limit on the amount of property taxes owed based on their income.

If a resident has already paid their property taxes and applies by October 1, any tax credit that the homeowner may be eligible for will be refunded by their county finance office. Customers can apply for the 2023 Homeowners’ Tax Credit online. Paper applications are also available online, however customers should be advised that applications submitted by mail will take longer to process than applications submitted online.

As part of the 2023 Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, the department will also mail more than 5,700 postcards to known renters who have not already applied for the tax credit, as well as non-subsidized rental companies to inform their tenants. The Renters' Property Tax Credit Program provides tax relief for eligible renters who pay high monthly rent relative to their total income and do not receive federal or state housing subsidies or reside in public housing. The credit is issued in the form of a direct check payment of up to $1,000 per year.

Customers can apply for the 2023 Renters’ Tax Credit online. Paper applications are also available online, however customers should be advised that applications submitted by mail will take longer to process than applications submitted online.

In 2022, more than 37,000 homeowners received an average of $1,501 in tax relief, and 6,004 renters received an average of $450 in tax relief. Combined, these two tax credit programs saved Marylanders more than $58 million last year.

Many counties and municipalities also provide supplemental homeowners credits as defined by Tax Property Article §9-215, which provide additional tax relief. If a resident is approved to receive the state credit, they will automatically receive any local supplemental credit for which they are eligible.?

Charles County, MD… Sheriff Troy D. Berry is pleased to announce the appointments of Deputy Director Ryan Ross to Director of the Charles County Detention Center (CCDC) and Captain Gerald Duffield to Deputy Director of the CCDC, taking charge of the facility after Director Brandon Foster retired on July 28. Director Ross and Deputy Director Duffield will oversee and manage all operations of the CCDC.

Director Ross has been with the CCDC for 19 years, serving in a multitude of assignments. Starting in 2003, Ross began as a Line Staff correctional officer. Moving and advancing through the Detention Center, Ross served in many units as a supervisor and he taught and supervised at the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy.

Ross was named Deputy Director of the CCDC in 2021 and has served in that capacity up until his recent appointment to Director. “Providing the best service possible to the Charles County community is paramount. We are an instrumental resource that can provide the foundation for deep-rooted personal growth. I am a firm believer that the mission of modern-day corrections is to stand as a beacon of positive influence. It is a mindset I share with the dedicated professionals that make up the Corrections Division. Our culture is the best,” said Director Ross.

Director Ross is a graduate of the National Jail Leadership Command Academy. He has extensive experience in Facility Operations, Resident Program Planning and Implementation, and Leadership. Ross is also active in numerous professional organizations including the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Corrections Chief’s Committee (where he serves as Chairman), the Maryland Correctional Administrator’s Association (where he serves as President), and the American Jail Association. Director Ross is a life-long Charles County resident. He holds multiple degrees from the College of Southern Maryland and is a graduate of Thomas Stone High School (Waldorf, MD).

Deputy Director Duffield is a life-long resident of Charles County. He joined the CCDC in 1994. His career history started as a Floor Officer, and he later served in the areas of Transport and Intake. Deputy Director Duffield also served with the Emergency Response Team for 10 years.

As a Lieutenant, Duffield served as Commander of Inmate Services overseeing the incarcerated persons’ programs and services and as the Central Processing Commander. He was then appointed to Captain and assigned to supervise the CCDC Annex Custody and Security Section. Duffield also managed the Special Services Section until his recent appointment to Deputy Director.

Deputy Director Duffield says managing at the Detention Center has been an honor. “I have really enjoyed my career as a correctional officer. I  truly enjoy working with my fellow officers and watching them grow in their careers and it has also provided me with a unique opportunity to serve my community and have a positive impact in the lives of incarcerated people who seek change,” said Duffield.

Combined, Director Ross and Deputy Director Duffield have nearly 50 years of experience in corrections. “They walk a tough beat and have a huge responsibility. I have the utmost confidence in their abilities to manage all aspects of corrections, and I’m proud of their success and continued commitment to the Detention Center,” said Sheriff Berry.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business meeting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners presented commendations to the St. Mary’s Striker Soccer Team.

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

• Approved the State’s Attorney’s Office’s application for the FY2024 GOCPYVS Victims of Crime Act grant.
• Approved the Circuit Court’s acceptance of the Adult Recovery Court Program and Family Recovery Court Award from the Maryland Office of Problem-Solving Courts; the acceptance of the grant award from the St. Mary’s County Health Department and the sub-recipient agreement with Project Chesapeake; and the acceptance of the Family Services Court Grant Award from the Administrative Office of the Courts for the Circuit Court Family Services Program.
• Approved the Sheriff’s Office’s FY2024 Cooperative Reimbursement Agreement and budget documents for the Child Support Grant from the Maryland Department of Human Services for Child Support Enforcement and approved the Annual Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification for FY2023, from the Department of Justice and Department of Treasury.
• Approved the Department of Recreation & Parks’ request for the Commissioner President to sign the request letter for a Sports Complex – Phase II Preliminary Design Services with the Maryland Stadium Authority and the Budget Amendment.

The Commissioner’s will host a Public Hearing tonight at 6:30 p.m. in the Commissioner Meeting Room on the proposed amendment to the Energy and Tax Fuel Ordinance.

The Commissioner’s next regular business meeting will be Tuesday, August 29 at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings are open to the public 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.

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

BALTIMORE (August 22, 2023) – Student proficiency rates in English Language Arts (ELA) in School Year 2022-2023 are at their highest in nearly a decade with the largest single-year gain in grades 3-8 over the same time period. Statewide results of the latest Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) assessments show notable improvements in literacy and mathematics, with literacy results surpassing pre-pandemic performance. Student proficiency rates in mathematics show signs of recovery from pandemic learning loss. Across all grades, a substantial percentage of students were on the cusp of achieving proficiency in literacy and mathematics. A lower percentage of students are scoring at the lowest performance level in literacy and mathematics. In school year 2022-2023, Maryland set its new baseline of post-pandemic proficiency – a baseline upon which the State will build from here forward with a relentless commitment to students. This new baseline offers a strong beginning, but it is just that: a beginning.

For students in grade 3, for example, the proficiency rate in literacy reached a nine-year high of 48%. The increase comes after a profound commitment to early literacy by the Maryland State Board of Education (MSBE) and the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). These are not just numbers, but children; for children in grade 3, achieving and maintaining proficiency in literacy is a marker of successfully transitioning from learning to read, to reading to learn. The development and mastery of early literacy skills are a strong predictor of later school reading and math achievement.

MSBE has led the way in this work - committing and reaffirming its commitment to early literacy and early literacy interventions, like, for example, with the Ready to Read Strategic Plan priority in Maryland Transforms, the MSBE’s and MSDE’s comprehensive Strategic Plan, which decisively codifies early literacy as a paramount focus, ensuring that foundational reading skills are not just encouraged, but are systematically woven into the fabric of Maryland’s educational trajectory. This priority is not just the priority of the State Board – it reflects the priority of Marylanders.

In engaging with over 30,000 voices across Maryland, parents and guardians resoundingly prioritized one thing: they want their children to successfully read and write. This sentiment is not exclusive to parents and guardians; employers, too, have ranked early literacy as a top priority. Acting on this clear mandate, these MCAP results show significant strides – better results for all children, with improvements across every subgroup, than in a decade. And this is just the beginning – evidenced by that work being further codified as part of local education agencies’ (LEA) Initial Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Implementation Plan submission templates and approval requirements during school year 2022-2023.

“The investments in the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, along with the emergency federal funding, are testament to the unwavering commitment that the State holds for its focus on children and their success. This is about children being able to read. As improvements are evident between the 2022 and 2023 data,” said Clarence C. Crawford, President of the Maryland State Board of Education, “we will continue to push forward in collaboration with local school systems and Boards to ensure that every Maryland student is nurtured to their full potential, thriving academically and personally. Our work has just begun.”

MSDE has made and continues to make unprecedented, targeted, and strategic investments in supporting schools and educators as they work to increase the percentage of students who are ready to read by the end of third grade. Key among these efforts has been the Maryland Leads grant initiative designed to use federal funds to address learning loss from COVID-19, bridge educational disparities, and better support underserved students. Maryland Leads emphasizes seven transformative strategies, notably adopting the Science of Reading and Structured Literacy. With these funds, LEAs train K-3 staff, adopt and implement high-quality, content-rich, and culturally responsive instructional materials, and monitor progress.

This era of progress is shared with the Maryland General Assembly, the Kirwan Commission, and the newly established Accountability and Implementation Board (AIB). These groups played pivotal roles in envisioning and steadfastly supporting the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. Maryland’s leaders embraced education as the key to societal and economic advancement, boldly investing in strategic initiatives that empower teachers, foster early learning, and equalize opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Today’s promising MCAP results stand as a testament to their committed leadership, which is setting a course to uplift not just today's students, but generations of Marylanders to come.

“The Maryland General Assembly recognized that the COVID-19 pandemic disruptions posed an urgent crisis to our students’ educational attainment,” said Senate President Bill Ferguson. “That’s why the legislature made historic investments in recent years to bridge the digital divide, and scale learning interventions like tutoring and summer school to get our kids back on track. The improvement of MCAP scores throughout the State demonstrates the efficacy of that strategy and the importance of sustainable Blueprint funding so every Maryland student can maximize their potential.”

The progress is not isolated; it is equitable and widespread. Data shows encouraging trends across all subgroups of students, demonstrating that MSDE’s commitment to narrow and close achievement gaps is not just a promise—it is practice. “These improvements are a testament to the unwavering dedication of our educators, families, and communities championing our students’ futures,” said State Superintendent of Schools Mohammed Choudhury. “While we celebrate this progress, we are acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead, especially for our historically underserved students. Our post-pandemic MCAP data is a clear call to action to elevate student engagement and achievement, particularly in math and middle grades. The Blueprint and our Strategic Plan are our compasses, as we remain committed to serving every child with unyielding resolve. Our goal is unequivocal: to have all Maryland students college and career ready. We are stubborn in our accountability; unrelenting in our mission to narrow and ultimately close opportunity and achievement gaps. We set this high bar for ourselves, and we will not waver until we
reach it.”

Student proficiency rates in English Language Arts (ELA) in SY 2022-2023 are at their highest in nearly a decade with the largest single-year gain in grades 3-8 over the same time period

Forty-seven percent of students were proficient in ELA in grades 3 through 8 combined in school year 2022-2023, which surpasses the 44% of students scoring proficient in school year 2018-2019, prior to the pandemic. Students in nearly all grade levels attained similar or improved proficiency rates in ELA in comparison to school year 2018-2019. The percentage of students who were proficient in ELA in grades 3 through 8 combined in school year 2022-2023 is the highest since school year 2014-2015, with an increase of almost 8 percentage points from the 39% scoring proficient in 2014-2015. The recent upward trend in ELA scores can also be seen in the English 10 assessment. Fifty-four percent of students assessed were proficient, an increase of 11 percentage points over the 43% scoring proficient in school year 2018-2019. With the school year 2022-2023 results, student proficiency in English 10 is at its highest since school year 2014-2015, the year when the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) was implemented.

Most student groups surpassed pre-pandemic proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA), including historically underserved students

The 2022-2023 assessment results in ELA in grades 3 through 8 combined showed gains for most student groups, including historically underserved students, with proficiency rates returning to pre-pandemic levels and, in some cases, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Black/African American students have seen a rise in their proficiency rates in ELA in grades 3 through 8 combined, from 28% in school year 2018-2019 to 34% in school year 2022-2023. For Students with Disabilities, the percentage of students scoring proficient rose to 12% in school year 2022-2023, up four percentage points from their pre-pandemic performance. 

Improvements were also notable for economically disadvantaged students, with a 7 percentage-point increase in the percentage of students scoring proficient in school year 2022-2023 as compared to the prior year. Data for identifying students as economically disadvantaged were first collected in school year 2018-2019 and reported in school year 2021-2022.

Recent gains in English Language Arts (ELA) in grade 3 bring student proficiency to a
nine-year high

The percentage of students who were proficient in ELA in grade 3 reached 48% in school year 2022-2023, up from 46% in the previous year. From 2018-2019 to 2022-2023, proficiency rates in ELA in grade 3 increased by 7 percentage points.

Student proficiency rates in mathematics show signs of recovery from pandemic learning loss

The percentage of students proficient in the mathematics assessments in grades 3 through 8 combined improved in school year 2022-2023 as compared to school year 2021-2022, although results have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels. Twenty-five percent of students in grades 3 through 8 combined were proficient in mathematics in school year 2022-2023, which surpasses the 22% of students scoring proficient in school year 2021-2022. Gains were larger for economically disadvantaged students, with a 4 percentage-point increase in their proficiency rates in mathematics in grades 3 through 8 combined year over year.

Students across grades 3 through 8 showed increases in mathematics proficiency in school year 2022-2023 as compared to school year 2021-2022. The largest gains were seen for students in grades 3 and 4, with a 4 percentage-point increase in each case. In the Algebra I assessment, 17% of students were proficient, an increase of 3 percentage points over the 14% of students scoring proficient in school year 2021-2022.

In the face of persistent challenges, this year's MCAP data illuminates a hopeful trend: the targeted math interventions implemented by Maryland's educational leaders are beginning to take root, as evidenced by increased proficiency rates across multiple grade levels, showcasing the resilience and potential of Maryland’s students. MSDE is actively working to support LEAs and educators in reversing Covid-19 pandemic learning loss in mathematics, improving student achievement in mathematics across the board, and narrowing opportunity gaps. Recently, Maryland joined the National Partnership for Student Success and will launch the Maryland Tutoring Corps. Through this innovative grant program, MSDE will invest up to $10 million to establish a permanent tutoring corps aimed at supporting students who are not proficient in mathematics. Priority will be given to middle school students in grades 6 to 8, Algebra students of any grade level, and historically underserved students including Black/African American students, economically disadvantaged students, English learners, and students with disabilities who are not proficient in mathematics.

MSDE is also investing in strengthening mathematics instruction under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The Blueprint requires LEAs to identify high-quality, content-rich, and culturally responsive instructional materials for all grade levels in mathematics. LEAs must have an inclusive and rigorous process in place for selecting high-quality instructional materials (HQIM). LEAs are also required to explain how cultural responsiveness is assessed when reviewing instructional materials as well as plans for supplementing materials to ensure that they meet the cultural needs of students. LEAs must develop a detailed plan for providing ongoing professional development and instructional support to educators to ensure implementation of HQIM with fidelity.

Professional learning for educators is a central component of the State’s efforts to improve student proficiency in mathematics across all grade spans. In school year 2023-2024, MSDE will partner with LEAs to host learning labs that highlight best practices in elementary mathematics instruction. These learning labs are designed to ensure mathematics educators across the State gain a thorough understanding of the systematic vision and planning needed to improve student outcomes in mathematics. Mathematics leaders who complete the labs will be prepared to return to their LEA and recreate the systems, structures, and processes that promote effective mathematics instruction. Leaders will be ready to cultivate a school culture that prioritizes time and space for teachers to plan and implement effective instructional practices through data analysis, reflection, and collaboration as it relates to elementary mathematics.

During school year 2023-2024, MSDE will also offer a high-leverage professional learning series focused on enhancing instructional practices that improve student confidence and consistency with modeling and reasoning in mathematics. Student proficiency in these areas is essential to achieve procedural and conceptual mastery in mathematics skills, and to prepare students for the college or career pathway of their choice. However, students across the State demonstrate persistent challenges with comprehension and mastery of modeling and reasoning with mathematics. The professional learning series will address this challenge by providing opportunities for mathematics classroom teachers and school-based mathematics coaches to explore and implement evidence-based instructional practices and tasks that support modeling and reasoning with mathematics.

Across all grades, a substantial percentage of students were on the cusp of achieving proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics

Between 16 and 22% of students in ELA, and between 11 and 17% of students in mathematics were on the cusp of proficiency, defined as a score range of 740-749, or less than ten points below the threshold for proficiency. These students were, on average, only one to three additional correct answers from achieving proficiency. Providing on-time and targeted supports to students on the cusp of proficiency will contribute to improving student performance in ELA and mathematics across all grade levels.

A lower percentage of students are scoring at the lowest performance level in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics 

The distribution of student scores among the four MCAP performance levels shows a reduction in the percentage of students who scored at the lowest performance level in ELA in grades 3 through 8 combined as well as in English 10. For ELA 3-8, the percentage of students who scored at the lowest performance level decreased from 13% in school year 2021-2022 to 11% in school year 2022-2023. In English 10, the percentage was 6% in school year 2022-2023, a decrease of 2 percentage points from school year 2021-2022.

The distribution of student scores for mathematics reveals an even larger drop in the percentage of students at the lowest performance level. In school year 2022-2023, a third of the students assessed in mathematics in grades 3 through 8 combined scored at the lowest performance level, down from 36% in school year 2021-2022. In Algebra I, there was a 5 percentage-point drop in the percentage of students scoring at the lowest performance level, falling from 37% in school year 2021-2022 to 32% in school year 2022-2023.

Grade 5 science scores have exceeded pre-pandemic levels; a call to action to improve grade 8 results

The percentage of students in grade 5 that met grade-level science proficiency increased nearly four percentage points, from 31% in school year 2021-2022 to 35% in school year 2022-2023. This year’s statewide science results show progress and continued academic recovery in grade 5 among Maryland public school students, who experienced multiple years of pandemic-induced disruptions to learning.

Notable gains were seen for most student groups in grade 5. Proficiency increased nearly six percentage points for economically disadvantaged students, and encouraging gains were seen for students with disabilities, with proficiency increasing from 8% in school year 2021-2022 to 11% in school year 2022-2023.

The 2023 MCAP science assessment saw fewer grade 8 students proficient than in school year 2022-2023, with 26% of grade 8 students reaching proficiency as compared to 35% in the prior year. Declines in proficiency as compared to school year 2021-2022 were seen across student groups. Grade 8 students in school year 2022-2023 were in grade 6 during school year 2020-2021, a year of predominantly virtual education in Maryland. The results on the grade 8 assessment make clear the impact of grade 6 and 7 disruptions on a cumulative grade 8 assessment. Additionally, these students did not participate in the grade 5 science assessment due to the waiver from the U.S. Department of Education from assessments administered in spring 2020 due to COVID-19.

The MCAP grade 5 and 8 science assessments are designed to measure student proficiency on the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). As a lead partner in the implementation of the NGSS standards, Maryland was an early adopter of the NGSS in 2013 and the new science standards were fully implemented by school year 2017-2018. Currently, Maryland is one of five states, including Washington, D.C., that have passed federal peer review on their science assessment implementation[1].

In contrast to previous standards that emphasized one aspect of science at a time, the new NGSS science standards are three-dimensional and integrate disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts into performance expectations that require students to make sense of real-world phenomena and solve authentic problems. Crosscutting concepts help students explore connections across Physical Science, Life Science, Earth and Space Science, and Engineering Design

Science and Engineering Practices describe the behaviors of scientists as they investigate and build models and theories about the natural world, as well as the practices of engineers when they design and build models and systems. Disciplinary core ideas aim to focus K-12 science curriculum, instruction, and assessments on the most important aspects of science.

About the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) Assessments

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires that states administer annual assessments to all students in ELA and mathematics in grades 3-8 and once in high school. ESSA also requires a statewide assessment in science for each grade band – grades 3-5, grades 6-8, and once in high school. Additional ESSA requirements include annual English language proficiency assessments in grades K-12 for all English learners and alternate assessments for students with significant cognitive disabilities.

The Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) test was administered from 2015 to 2019. No assessment was administered in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021 assessment was a modified assessment that was administered in the fall of the 2021-2022 school year.

The MCAP assessments measure mastery of Maryland content standards to ensure that all students are progressing and receiving the necessary supports for remediation and enrichment. MCAP assessments include four student performance levels: Beginning Learner, Developing Learner, Proficient Learner, and Distinguished Learner. Both distinguished and proficient learners are considered proficient.

The school year 2022-2023 administration of the MCAP assessments is now complete. All students have received or will receive an Individual Student Report (ISR). This report allows educators and families to better understand a student’s performance on Maryland content standards individually and as compared to peers in their school, county or city, and the State. Additional detailed information is also provided on how a student performed on sub-scores such as content, modeling and reasoning for math, and an indication of the level of support or enrichment that may be needed. ISRs provide students and families with information about students’ scores and performance levels to identify strengths and areas of improvement.

The school year 2022-2023 assessment results, including disaggregation of data by LEA and student groups, will be presented at the August 22, 2023, Maryland State Board of Education meeting. State, LEA, and school level data will be published on the Maryland Report Card website in September 26, 2023.

(HOLLYWOOD, MD) – Maryland State Police have charged a man for attacking two troopers with a knife, which led the troopers to fire their agency issued firearms late Friday evening in St. Mary’s County.

Anthony Oliveras Jr., 22, of Hollywood, Maryland, is charged with attempted first-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault and the use of a dangerous weapon with the intent to injure.

Shortly before 10:55 p.m. on Friday, two troopers from the Maryland State Police Leonardtown Barrack responded to a home in the 44000 block of West Mervell Court in Hollywood, Maryland, for a report of a possible suicidal person. According to a preliminary investigation, the troopers – Trooper First Class John Engleman a four-year veteran of the Department and Trooper Robert Ruel, a recent graduate of the Maryland State Police Academy – approached the front door of the home, where they were met by Oliveras.

Investigators said Oliveras, who was armed with an approximately 6-inch-long knife, stepped outside of the residence and lunged toward Trooper Ruel, stabbing him twice in the chest.  The knife pierced the trooper’s uniform and ballistic vest.

Both troopers fired their agency issued firearms, striking Oliveras. The two troopers, along with another trooper from the Leonardtown Barrack and a deputy from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the latter two whom arrived after the shooting, immediately rendered aid until emergency medical service personnel arrived.

Oliveras was transported by ambulance by the Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown before being flown by helicopter to MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. for treatment of his injuries, where he remains at this time.

Investigators from the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit and Criminal Enforcement Division Central South arrived on the scene to lead the investigation of the shooting. The State Police Internal Affairs Unit also responded and is conducting a concurrent investigation. Both troopers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, as is procedure.

Assistance was also provided by crime scene technicians from the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division. The St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office has also been contacted. Maryland State Police are consulting with the Independent Investigations Division at the Office of the Attorney General’s Office as this investigation continues.

(BRANDYWINE, MD) – Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run crash involving a pedestrian that took place early yesterday morning in Prince George’s County.

The victim, who has not been positively identified, was pronounced deceased on the scene by Prince George’s County Fire and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Department personnel.

Shortly after 12:30 a.m., troopers from the Maryland State Police Forestville Barrack responded to the area of northbound Crain Highway (Route 301), just north of Brandywine Road (Route 381) for the report of a pedestrian in the roadway. Upon arrival on the scene, troopers observed a pedestrian in the roadway that appeared to have been struck by a vehicle. Investigators located a Lexus emblem on the roadway. Investigators did not locate a striking vehicle on the scene. 

Due to the crash, northbound Route 301, approximately 1 mile north of Brandywine Road was shut down. All lanes have since been reopened. Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration personnel assisted with road closures.

The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation. Anyone with information regarding this crash is asked to contact the Maryland State Police Forestville Barrack at 301-568-8101.

The case remains under investigation. 

Due to a nationwide increase in the trafficking of fentanyl mixed with a powerful non-opioid animal sedative, xylazine – a deadly combination commonly known as “Tranq” - the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is now offering testing strips to detect xylazine in illicit drugs. 
 
Xylazine and fentanyl drug mixtures place users at a higher risk of suffering a fatal drug intoxication. Because xylazine is not an opioid, naloxone (Narcan®) will not work to reverse its effects though it may help with fentanyl overdoses. People who inject drug mixtures containing xylazine also can develop severe wounds involving necrosis—the rotting of skin tissue—that may lead to amputation. Community members may obtain xylazine test strips at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub through the Harm Reduction Program on a walk-in basis, free of charge.

SMCHD encourages those who are using illicit substances to seek professional help for their substance use. Help is available and individuals can be connected to local treatment options through the SMCHD website, calling 301-862-1680, or walking in Monday - Friday during business hours at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub. The Health Hub offers the Harm Reduction Program to help mitigate the harms associated with drug use – such as overdoses, wounds, and infections – and encourage people into treatment when they are ready for it. The HRP provides infectious disease testing, Narcan®, and ways to test drug paraphernalia (such as pill bottles and syringes) for presence of fentanyl or other substances like xylazine. 

“Anyone struggling with addiction needs to know about the dangers of xylazine and how it is getting mixed into the drug supply," said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “These new test strips for xylazine will help prevent fatalities. Our Health Hub team also provides many other resources to get people connected to effective treatment for their drug use and support them in recovery.” 

For further information about the SMCHD Harm Reduction Program, visit smchd.org/harmreduction.

To learn more about the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, visit smchd.org/hub.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Monday, September 4, 2023, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

The September 4 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 programs and facilities
• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill

The following SMCG operations will be open on September 4:

• 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 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• The Wicomico Shores Golf Course (8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.)
• The Riverview Restaurant (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

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

On August 18, 2023, at around 2:00 AM, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call for shots fired in the area of Patuxent Drive in Lexington Park. Deputies arrived on scene and located a 17-year-old male inside a residence suffering from a gunshot wound to his upper body. The juvenile was transported by Medevac to an area trauma center in stable condition. Deputies located two residences and a vehicle which had been struck by gunfire. Detectives and Crime Lab Personnel responded to the scene and collected multiple items of evidence. Anyone with any information regarding the shooting is asked to contact Detective Warren Forinash at 301-475-4200 x8072 or by email at Warren.Forinash@Stmaryscountymd.gov reference case number 44071-23. 

On August 18, 2023, at around 10:00 PM, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of West Westbury Boulevard in Lexington Park for the report of shots fired. Deputies arrived on scene and located a residence and multiple vehicles struck by gunfire. A short time later, an 18-year-old male arrived at the Lexington Park Rescue squad with a suspected graze wound from a gunshot. The individual was transported by Medevac to an area trauma center in stable condition. Detectives and Crime Lab Personnel responded to the scene and collected multiple items of evidence. Anyone with any information regarding the shooting is asked to contact Detective Andrew Burgess at 301-475-4200 x8041 or by email at Andrew.Burgess@Stmaryscountymd.gov reference case number 44292-23.  

One person died and another suffered serious injuries in a crash between two boats on the Chesapeake Bay Saturday night, according to the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department.

The crash happened about 9:40 p.m. nearly two miles off Breezy Point Beach and Marina, the department said.

A fire boat took the victims back to land, and the injured person was taken to a trauma center.

Four other people on the boats were not injured.

Alcohol does not appear to be involved, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police said.

(HOLLYWOOD, MD) – Maryland State Police are investigating a trooper-involved shooting that occurred late Friday evening in St. Mary’s County.

Shortly before 10:55 p.m. on Friday, two troopers from the Maryland State Police Leonardtown Barrack responded to a home in the 44000 block of West Mervell Court in Hollywood, Maryland, for a report of a possible suicidal person. According to a preliminary investigation, the troopers – a four-year veteran of the Department and a recent graduate of the Maryland State Police Academy – approached the front door of the home, where they were met by Anthony Oliveras Jr., 22, of Hollywood, Maryland.

Investigators said Oliveras, who was armed with a knife, stepped outside of the residence and lunged toward one of the troopers, attempting to stab him.  The knife pierced the trooper’s uniform and ballistic vest.

Both troopers fired their agency issued firearms, striking Oliveras. The two troopers, along with another trooper from the Leonardtown Barrack and a deputy from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the latter two whom arrived after the shooting, immediately rendered aid until emergency medical service personnel arrived.

Oliveras was transported by ambulance by the Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown before being flown by helicopter to MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. for treatment of his injuries.

Investigators from the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit and Criminal Enforcement Division Central South arrived on the scene to lead the investigation of the shooting. The State Police Internal Affairs Unit also responded and is conducting a concurrent investigation. Both troopers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, as is procedure.

Assistance was also provided by crime scene technicians from the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division. The St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office has also been contacted.

Maryland State Police are consulting with the Independent Investigations Division at the Office of the Attorney General’s Office as this investigation continues. No charges have been filed at this time.

The Board of Education of Charles County today supported Superintendent of Schools Maria Navarro’s decision to increase the cost-of-living adjustment, also known as COLA, for contracted bus drivers and attendants. Superintendent Navarro presented the information to the Board members this afternoon, who expressed unanimous support of her decision to increase the COLA for contracted drivers and attendants from 2% to 5%.  

All bus drivers and attendants who are employed by independent Charles County bus contractors will receive a 5% COLA for the 2023-2024 school year. The COLA now matches what was negotiated for Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) certificated and support staffs.  

CCPS staff who fall under the Education Association of Charles County (EACC) and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union agreements received a one-step increase and 5% COLA for the 2023-2024 school year. Earlier this year, the Board approved Superintendent Navarro’s action to provide a 2% COLA for contracted bus drivers and attendants for the new school year and increased the minimum hours they could be paid for.  

Starting with the 2023-2024 school year, any contracted bus driver or attendant who works at least four hours per day will be paid for seven hours and will now receive a 5% COLA (instead of the 2% previously offered). Drivers and attendants who work less than four hours, under the new agreement for the coming school year, will be paid for six hours and receive the 5% COLA.  

Drivers who work between seven to eight hours will now receive a 5% COLA, and any driver working eight or more hours will be paid time-and a half plus the 5% COLA.  

The cost of this change to the school system is about $400,000, which will be absorbed through the school system’s transportation budget. Superintendent Navarro said the COLA increase is an example of continued support of the school system to provide better wages for bus drivers and attendants.  

“We continue to work with bus contractors, contracted drivers, and attendants to explore ways in which we can better support them. Through open lines of communication, regular meetings and feedback sessions, the Board and CCPS leadership continue to focus on compensation for drivers and attendants, and the possibility of exploring multi-year contracts. Bus drivers and attendants spend countless hours on Charles County roads each week, ensuring more than 23,000 children arrive to and from school safely each day. We will continue to explore and discuss ways in which school system funds are used to compensate not only CCPS employees, but those who work for bus contractors,” Navarro said.  

When school starts on Monday, Aug. 28, more than 350 drivers and attendants will operate Charles County school bus routes. Bus route information will be loaded to School Locator, Where’s the Bus and ParentVue accounts next week. “We are excited to welcome back not only our students and staff but welcome our bus drivers and attendants to the start of another school year,” Navarro said.  

Ocean City, Md. – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.) released the following joint statement:

“Team Maryland has been in touch with Gov. Wes Moore’s office and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding the locally acquired malaria case recently discovered in our state. We stand ready to facilitate federal support for the state or local governments, including financial and technical assistance as necessary. We appreciate that the governor and CDC already are working closely to respond to this situation. We send our thoughts for a speedy recovery to the individual affected and their family.

“The CDC has said that the risk of locally acquired malaria remains extremely low in the United States. To Marylanders, the best thing you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your community is to continue using your mosquito-borne disease prevention strategies, like using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents, emptying any standing water at least once a week, and using screens on windows and doors.

“We will continue to stay in close contact with state and local officials as we monitor this situation and work together to keep Marylanders safe.”

Researchers at the University of Maryland have found personal data remained on many used cell phones purchased through a police auction website. Police departments typically acquire phones through civil asset forfeiture, but are sometimes the destination for items from the airport lost and found. Over a period of months, U-M-D researchers purchased 228 used phones from 'PropertyRoom.com,' a reseller that partners with thousands of police departments. Many contained personal information. One phone that was used in an identity theft scheme was resold with the identity theft victims' complete credit histories. The researchers didn't use any software to break into the phones, and study author Dave Levin says they found many people aren't taking basic precautions.

"First off, choose a good pin. We found about 20% or so of the phones that we ended up purchasing didn't have any pin we turned it on and it was just unlocked. For the other phones that we got into we guessed the pins because the pins were things like 1-2-3-4, 6-6-6-6, these types of things."

Researchers notified PropertyRoom, which advised them it will no longer sell phones with personal information. PropertyRoom did not respond to our request for comment.

To address issues with other resellers handling lost-and-found items, such as web outlets or pawn shops, researchers say legislation would be needed. While the issue of law enforcement reselling electronics containing personal data could also be addressed by legislation that at a minimum required the devices to be wiped clean, Levin says the best approach would be for police departments to not resell phones.

 "We didn't use any of the clever tools and tricks. Prior work has shown that even when you think you wipe something, it might not wipe something altogether. Not necessarily. We've seen that on phones, but it just the safest thing would have been to just destroy the phones altogether."

With the power of modern cell phones to handle so many tasks, the amount of personal data stored on the devices can be vast. Richard Roberts also worked on the study and says many of the phones contained a lot of personal information.

"For over a quarter of the phones – about 26, 27% that we purchased – we were able to super easily see all of the personal information from the previous person who owned it, whether that was texts, phone calls, emails, photos, anything that was on the phone."

U-M-D researchers destroyed the phones after the study was concluded.

Representatives from the Maryland Institute of Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS), Maryland State Police (MSP) and the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center will be announcing a new public-private collaboration for lifesaving trauma response for Marylanders. 

MSP’s fleet of “Trooper” helicopters used in prehospital air medical response recently started carrying whole blood for emergency transfusions when minutes are critical. Maryland is the first state in the country to offer this lifesaving Blood on Board initiative statewide.

Blood has been transfused in the field to 21 critically injured patients so far. Patients who have received blood transfusions have been injured as a result of many different types of trauma, including motor vehicle crashes, machinery accidents and shootings. There have already been several patients who may not have survived their injuries to reach the hospital had they not received these blood transfusions.

This project is an example of the unique partnerships that comprise Maryland’s trauma response system. Marking 50 years this year, this partnership provides Marylanders with increased care that reduces the number of disabilities and death from traumatic injury. The most seriously injured in Maryland are often transported to a trauma center by medevac helicopter to reduce the amount of time to reach definitive care at a hospital.

Visuals will include a Maryland State Police medevac helicopter, the cooler and blood products.  Interviews with experts will be available, including:

• Ted Delbridge, MD, Executive Director, Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS)
• Douglas J. Floccare, MD, MPH, FACEP, State Aeromedical Director MIEMSS and Medical Director for the Maryland State Police Aviation Command (MSPAC)
• Thomas M. Scalea, MD, Physician-in-Chief of the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center, the Honorable Francis X. Kelly Distinguished Professor of Trauma Surgery and Director of the Program in Trauma at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
• Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr., Superintendent of the Maryland Department of State Police
• Sgt. Joshua Heins, Flight Paramedic, Maryland State Police

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the Maryland State Police, and the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office are implementing a multi-agency initiative: Slow Down St. Mary’s, a comprehensive response to combat the rise in traffic-related fatalities.

Eight deaths have stemmed from fatal motor vehicle collisions in St. Mary’s County this year, compared to ten deaths in all of 2022. This number does not include the numerous collisions resulting in serious non-fatal injuries to citizens. Speeding, distracted driving, and aggressive driving have been identified as contributing factors in many of this year’s crashes.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff Steve Hall and Maryland State Police Leonardtown Barrack Commander Lieutenant Krystle Rossignol have agreed to dedicate and combine resources for a joint initiative focused on changing driver behavior with the issuance of citations.

St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling and her staff will hold the line in seeking fines and point assessment penalties for those infractions, including, but not limited to:

• Aggressive driving
• Reckless driving
• Negligent driving
• Speeding
• Driving a vehicle or participating in a race or speed contest
• Driving while using a handheld phone/earbuds
• Failure to stop/remain stopped for a stopped school bus
• Exceeding the speed limit in a posted school zone
• Traffic infractions that contribute to an accident

Slow Down St. Mary’s not only stresses the importance of obeying the speed limit, it also re-enforces the need to focus on the safe operation of your vehicle and respect other motorists who share our roadways. This cooperative effort seeks to save lives and address the dangerous trends affecting our community.

During the week of August 7– August 13, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,593 calls for service throughout the community. 

Damaged Property: 23-55846
On August 7, 2023, DFC Sturdivant responded to the 1700 block of Holland Cliffs Road in Huntingtown, for the report of a burglary that had already occurred. The complainant advised sometime between Aug. 2 and Aug. 7, an unknown suspect(s) pried the victim’s front door open and damaged the door frame. Nothing appears to have been missing and no other damage was found. The estimated value of damaged property is $300.00. 

Damaged Property: 23-55753
On August 7, 2023, responded to the area of Parran Road and Bond Street in St. Leonard, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised sometime between Aug. 4 and Aug. 7, an unknown suspect(s) broke out the rear window of the victim’s vehicle and deflated all four tires. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,000.00.

Damaged Property: 23-55868
On August 7, 2023, M/DFC Aurich responded to the Harris Teeter located at 10125 Ward Road in Dunkirk, for the reported theft from auto. The complainant advised sometime between 7:17 p.m. and 8:43 p.m., unknown suspects smashed out the passenger side window, broke the steering column, and removed the ignition switch on the victim’s vehicle. The estimated value of damaged/stolen property is unknown at this time.

Damaged Property: 23-56186
On August 9, 2023, DFC Newton responded to the 9600 block of Courtland Drive in Dunkirk, for the reported theft from a vehicle. The complainant reported an unknown suspect broke into the victim’s vehicle and ripped out the plastic underneath the dash. Investigation revealed the ignition had been “ripped” out in an attempt to start and steal the vehicle. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,000.00.

Motor Vehicle Theft: 23-55750
On August 8, 2023, DFC McCourt responded to the 1600 block of Parran Road in St. Leonard, for the reported motor vehicle theft. Contact was made with the complainant  who advised his Ford F-150 had been stolen from outside the victim’s residence. A search of the area was conducted, and DFC Anderson located the stolen vehicle in the back corner of a field hidden in the wood line. Investigation revealed the victim’s wallet, $400 in cash, and multiple credit cards were also stolen. The investigation is ongoing.

Theft: 23-56795
On August 11, 2023, Dep. Bowen responded to the 2000 block of Timberneck Drive in Owings, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised approximately $1,500 worth of tools were stolen from the back of the victim’s work truck (battery drill, impact set, band saw, stand up light, hammer drill vacuum, work lamp, 6 pack charger, and battery vacuum cleaner). The victim also stated $300 in personal tools were stolen from his driveway (battery drill, ratchet set, battery grinder, grease gun, air compressor, etc.) The estimated value of stolen property is $1,800.00.

Theft: 23-56718
On August 11, 2023, Deputy Dawson responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his son’s black and red Nintendo Switch was stolen from the Chesapeake Beach community Center located at 4075 Gordon Stinnett Ave., during summer camp. The estimated value of stolen property is $300.00.

Theft: 23-56666
On August 11, 2023, Deputy Smith responded to the 7-Eleven located at 685 Prince Frederick Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a tall black male entered the store, went behind the counter, and grabbed multiple VUSE Alto products and ran out of the store without paying for the merchandise. The suspect fled on foot in an unknown direction. The estimated value of stolen property is $590.76.

ARRESTS

On August 7, 2023, DFC Kwitowski responded to the 11500 block of HG Trueman Road in Lusby, for report of a hit and run automobile accident with injury. The complainant advised a silver sedan collided with the victim’s vehicle causing heavy front-end damage then left the area. Moments later, the driver of the suspect vehicle, Xavier James Holloway, 19 of Lusby, arrived at the accident scene and advised he was driving the silver Nissan that struck the victim’s vehicle. Holloway advised he initially left the area because he did not want to pay for the victim’s vehicle to be towed. Holloway was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Failure to Remain at the Scene of an Accident Involving Attended Vehicle Damage and Failure to Immediately Return and Remain at Scene of an Accident Involving Bodily Injury.

On August 8, 2023, DFC Aley responded to the Ulta Beauty located at 845 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft in progress. Contact was made with management who advised a black female was observed placing items into her bags. Contact was made with Rochelle Shanekia Dowansingh, 35 of Queens, NY, as she exited the store. Dowansingh was asked to produce a receipt for her items. Dowansingh showed Dep. Aley a receipt for 2 bottles of hair products and advised she did not steal anything from the store. After reviewing store surveillance, Dowansingh was observed placing two Tree Hut products (Colada and pineapple foaming gel wash) in her white bag under her backpack. Dowansingh then admitted to stealing the products. Dowansingh was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where she was charged with Theft: Less than $100 and trespassed indefinitely from the store.

On August 8, 2023, Deputy Daily responded to the Calvert County Detention Center located at 325 Stafford Rd. in Barstow, for the report of an inmate having contraband. Investigation revealed Gino Jacquesz Williams, 22 of Washington D.C., grabbed a broom, broke the handle in half and utilized the sharp end of the broom as a weapon. Williams began swinging the weapon around yelling for deputies to come get him. The Emergency Response Team made entry into William’s cell block took Williams into custody. A search of William’s person revealed a plastic bag containing 2 grams of suspected marijuana. Williams was charged with Possession of Contraband in a Place of Confinement and Possession of a Weapon While Confined/Detained.

On August 10, 2023, DFC Crum responded to Joann Fabrics & Crafts located at 521 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for a reported indecent exposure. The complainant advised a white male was sitting on a bench outside the store with his privates out as people were passing by in their vehicles. The male was also observed urinating as he was sitting down. Contact was made with Robert Allen Rice, 57 of no fixed address. Rice had been previously been trespassed indefinitely from that location. Rice was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property and Indecent Exposure.  

SOLOMONS, MD – August 17, 2023 – Most bird bones are very thin, an adaptation to lighten the skeleton for the purpose of flight. Consequently, their delicate bones do not fossilize well. That is why, when even a single isolated fossil bird bone is found along Calvert Cliffs, it’s a big deal. Now just imagine how excited the paleontologists at the Calvert Marine Museum (CMM) became when long-time museum volunteer and gifted fossil finder Mike Ellwood found a partial skeleton (Figures 1 - 3) including a skull of a 12 million-year-old gannet, the most complete bird skeleton ever found along Calvert Cliffs!

What Ellwood first spotted were the ends of a few bones protruding from the sediments at the base of the cliff. Recognizing them as having come from a bird, and with permission from the landowner, he put a cast (what we call a field jacket) around a platter-size block of sediment and brought it to the museum. What Ellwood did not know when he collected the block was that there was a nearly complete skull hiding in the cylindrical block that he had quarried.

CMM Assistant Paleontology Collections Manager Stephen Groff was tasked to prepare the fossil. As he meticulously worked his way down between the wing bones, he discovered that they framed the skull of an extinct species of gannet. Modern gannets are large seabirds that nest on islands or in coastal environments in temperate oceans like the north Atlantic as well as the Chesapeake Bay. From other fragmentary fossilized gannet bones found along the cliffs, we have known that gannets were here during the Miocene epoch when this area was usually under the coastal waters of the prehistoric Atlantic Ocean. However, a bird find like this consisting of a skull and bones from one individual has never been found along the cliffs; it is a once-in-a-lifetime find!

Not only did the shape and size of the skull confirm that it came from an extinct species of gannet, but also the observation that its snout did not have nostrils. Some diving birds don’t have nostrils on the outside of their beak, an obvious and very helpful adaptation to keep water from blowing up their nose when diving into the water at great speed hoping to catch a slippery fish.

The fossil gannet partial skeleton can now be seen in the museum’s fossil preparation lab and will be there until it is removed for scientific study.

Watch the discovery spotlight video produced by Calvert Broadcast recounting the fascinating story. (1) Miocene Gannet Skeleton Discovery along Calvert Cliffs! - YouTube

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Superintendent of Schools, Dr. J. Scott Smith, announces the administrative appointments made by the Board of Education at its meeting of August 16, 2023.

The Board appointed Ms. Corrine Marino as a Career Counseling Program Coordinator, 12 month, in the Department of Student Services.  Ms. Marino holds a Master’s Degree from George Mason University and a Bachelor’s Degree from Concordia College.  Ms. Marino currently serves as a School Counselor at Leonardtown High School.

Ms. Leyla Mele has been appointed as a Coordinator of Fiscal Support, 12 month, in the Department of Fiscal Services.  Ms. Mele holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Liberty University.  Ms. Mele currently serves as an Accountant in the Department of Fiscal Services. 

These appointments become effective Monday, August 21, 2023.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County and leaders from across St. Mary’s County Government will be attending the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) summer conference in Ocean City, MD, from August 16-19, 2023.

Over 3,000+ county and state government representatives and commercial companies from across Maryland will converge at the 2023 MACo summer conference (MACoCon). This year’s theme, "Where the Rubber Meets the Road," promises to focus on how leaders deliver for Maryland's counties. Participants look forward to a dynamic and enriching experience, discovering best practices, innovative county solutions, and potential partnerships. Engaging in a diverse program of events, attendees can partake in three enlightening general sessions, delve into more than 50 educational sessions, explore a vast 300-booth tradeshow, and discover cutting-edge solutions at the 60-booth technology expo. The conference also offers numerous networking events, fostering invaluable connections within Maryland's governmental and business communities.

“The MACo conference offers the opportunity to learn about important legislative changes and other key issues facing local governments, such as workforce retention, affordable housing, cyber security, and more,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy, who also serves on MACo's Board of Directors and Legislative Committee.

About the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo): MACo is a non-profit and non-partisan organization that serves Maryland county governments by articulating their needs and ideas to the Maryland General Assembly. The Association's membership comprises county elected officials and representatives from Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City. More at: mdcounties.org.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) along with Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) and Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.) and a bicameral group of colleagues in calling on the Biden Administration to support needed funding to prevent a national wave of child care closures. Congress secured historic funding in the American Rescue Plan to stabilize child care during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that relief funding is set to end this September. In a recent report, The Century Foundation (TCF) estimates that more than 70,000 child care programs will likely close, leaving over 3.2 million children without child care, when the funding from the American Rescue Plan expires.

“We urge you to join us in supporting an investment of $16 billion a year by any and all means possible – including supporting Congress in efforts to extend the Child Care Stabilization grants passed in ARPA—and through emergency funding for child care in any supplemental appropriations package put forth by the Administration,” the lawmakers wrote.

The letter notes that the child care system was already in crisis before the pandemic, and that it has been one of the slowest sectors to recover from the pandemic with wages remaining unacceptably low for the child care workforce.

“The broken child care market has resulted in an impossible tension between families, workers, and providers: child care providers cannot afford to run their businesses or pay adequate wages to their staff using revenue from parents alone, while child care costs are unaffordable and unsustainable for working families,” the lawmakers continued. “…The impending fiscal cliff will be devastating to child care programs, children and their families, the child care workforce, and the nation’s economy.”

Senator Van Hollen has long supported efforts to ensure equitable access to child care for all Americans. He was an original cosponsor of the Child Care for Working Families Act, legislation which would expand access to affordable, high-quality child care, help defray providers’ costs, and secure a living wage for child care workers. Senator Van Hollen also recently reintroduced his Payments Modernization Act with Senator Warren, which would make it easier for Americans to access their hard-earned paychecks to support their families. In addition, Senator Van Hollen’s Family Stability and Opportunity Vouchers Act would create 250,000 new housing mobility vouchers to allow families to move to areas with greater opportunity and provide counseling services for young families. This July, Senator Van Hollen joined members of the Maryland delegation in announcing over $28 million to support early childhood education programs across the state.

The letter is supported by National Women’s Law Center, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC), Child Care for Every Family Network, Community Change Action, Family Values at Work, Caring Across Generations, First Focus Campaign for Children, Oxfam America, MomsRising, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), and ZERO TO THREE.

In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senators Kaine, Smith, and Warren was signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). 114 Representatives joined Bonamici and Jacobs on the letter in the House.

The full text of the Senate letter can be found here and below.

Dear Mr. President:

We write today to express our concern regarding the continued child care crisis and the imminent end of the Child Care Stabilization Grants provided under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) on September 30, 2023. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, this $24 billion investment sustained 220,000 child care providers, saved an estimated 9.6 million child care slots, and more than 1 million child care jobs. But the end of this funding will only worsen the crisis, and we urge you to join us in calling for an investment of $16 billion a year by any and all means possible – including supporting Congress in efforts to extend the Child Care Stabilization grants passed in ARPA, and through emergency funding for child care in any supplemental appropriations package put forth by the Administration.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress and your Administration took important steps to ensure the child care industry received robust funding in the economic relief packages passed. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) with $3.5 billion, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act provided $10 billion in dedicated relief, and ARPA provided $15 billion for CCDBG and $24 billion for the stabilization grants.

The most recent appropriations process yielded $8 billion for CCDBG, which was an increase of $1.85 billion or 30 percent from fiscal year 2022 funding. However, with the passage of the Fiscal Responsibility Act in June, Congress is already limited on discretionary spending. We have an urgent need to further stabilize an industry that has been long underfunded and struggling.

Prior to the pandemic, the child care system was already in a crisis. In 2018, over 50 percent of counties in the United States were considered a child care desert – an area in which the demand for child care is far more than the supply^. The broken child care market has resulted in an impossible tension between families, workers, and providers: child care providers cannot afford to run their businesses or pay adequate wages to their staff using revenue from parent alone, while child care costs are unaffordable and unsustainable for working families. For years, the situation has been far worse for families with low incomes, families of color, and for families seeking infant and toddler care, care for children with disabilities, and care during non-traditional hours.

The child care workforce has been one of the slowest sectors to recover from the pandemic and wages for this critical workforce remain unacceptably low. As of July 2023, the child care industry is missing 48,500 workers compared to pre-pandemic levels, further fueling the shortage of available child care for families. Between 2019 and 2022, the median hourly wage for child care workers grew only 3.1 percent whereas food service worker wages raised 8.7 percent and retail sales worker wages increased 5.6 percent. Without federal investment, child care providers who are already operating on slim profit margins are unable to raise wages without raising costs to families.

Now, the country is heading towards a funding cliff when child care stabilization funds and other relief funding that has been propping up an already fragile sector expire. It will be devastating to child care programs, children and their families, the child care workforce, and to the nation’s economy. The Century Foundation estimates that over 70,000 child care programs will likely close, leaving 3.2 million families without child care and potentially costing the nation’s economy $10.6 billion per year.

The pandemic emergency relief provided a much-needed lifeline to the child care industry, but it is crucial that, at minimum, we sustain that level of investment to ensure the industry’s survival and prevent a new emergency. Our providers, workers, children, and families need your help. We urge you to work with Congress, utilizing every possible tool, including any emergency supplemental appropriations package, to provide $16 billion to prevent the looming child care funding cliff. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

The St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce coordinated a visit from Maryland State Comptroller Brooke Lierman to the St. Mary’s County Health Hub on Monday, August 14, 2023 as part of her “Take a Look with Brooke Tour”, which focuses on revitalization efforts in several communities across the state. Comptroller Lierman was in St. Mary’s County as part of her effort to engage with local community leaders and to highlight innovative strategies that benefit living standards in various Maryland communities. The visit to the Health Hub, hosted by the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD), featured a gathering of community and business leaders to discuss revitalization of the Lexington Park area. 
 
Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer, joined Dr. Christine Bergmark, CEO/President of the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce, and County Commissioner Scott Ostrow to welcome Comptroller Lierman at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub in Lexington Park and provide a tour of the facility. The Hub offers a wide range of services including behavioral health screening, crisis counseling, jail diversion programs for substance use treatment and recovery, financial literacy education and primary care medical services. 

 
Key Health Hub partners present for the Comptroller’s visit included: the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, part of the Equity Task Force that founded the Health Hub; PNC Bank which donated the facility for its current community purpose; WellCheck, a technology firm providing the Health Hub’s digital infrastructure; and St. Mary’s County Government, which supported renovations to the facility for its current use as a healthcare facility. 
 
“Our health department team welcomed the opportunity to meet Comptroller Lierman and highlight the services and partnerships of the Health Hub,” said Dr. Brewster. “Health and wellness have a significant impact on the workforce and our economy. We need to optimize health as we work to advance wealth in our community.”   
 
“St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce was honored to coordinate Comptroller Lierman’s first official visit to St. Mary’s,” said Dr. Christine Bergmark, CEO/President of the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce. “We showcased just a few of the wonderful things our county has to offer in this brief tour, with a promise to include many others in the future.”
 
To learn more about the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, visit smchd.org/hub.

Calvert County has long been committed to protecting the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, recognizing the importance of preserving its delicate ecosystem. As stewards and neighbors of the Chesapeake Bay, it is crucial for property owners to be aware of their property's classification, become familiar with the regulations associated with a Critical Area and understand how both impact their property use and health of the bay. By knowing your property's status, you can actively participate in the preservation efforts of this ecologically significant region.

The Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Protection Act, passed in 1984, was a landmark legislation marking the first time that state and local governments jointly addressed the impacts of land development and use on natural habitat and aquatic resources. Calvert County adopted the local Critical Area Program in December 1988.

The Critical Area includes all land within 1,000 feet of the mean high water line of tidal waters or the landward edge of tidal wetlands, all waters and all lands under the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, such as stream beds and tidal wetlands. For Calvert County, this includes the Patuxent River and other tributaries.

By becoming familiar with the regulations governing the Critical Area, residents can contribute to the preservation and protection of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. Resident cooperation helps to mitigate water pollution, safeguard natural habitats and ensure responsible accommodation of the county's future growth.

Calvert County has developed Critical Area Maps to help property owners determine if their property falls within the Critical Area. These maps are readily accessible online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CriticalAreaMap. Residents can locate their property address in relation to the boundary of the Critical Area, which is indicated by a red line.

Construction projects, grading, adding fill material, controlling shoreline erosion, cutting or clearing of any vegetation and removing dead trees all require permits within the Critical Area. Hazard trees that present an immediate threat to property may be dealt with before permit approval, provided that photo documentation of the hazard (prior to removal) and a permit application are submitted.

Prior approval is also required for the removal of invasive plant species. While property owners are permitted to maintain existing lawns, penalties are imposed for unauthorized clearing within the buffer zone. These extra steps are in place to protect the integrity of the property and the bay.

To learn more about the Calvert County Critical Area Program, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CriticalArea or contact the Department of Planning & Zoning at 410-535-2348.

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.

Task Force apprehends man wanted in connection with first-degree assault: On August 7, Brian Anthony Cave, 28, of no fixed address, was arrested by members of a fugitive task force in connection with a domestic-related assault that occurred in December 2020 during which Cave produced a firearm and threatened a woman. After he was initially charged, a judge ordered Cave could be released on a $5,000 bond. He was indicted on the assault charge in February 2021, but failed to appear in court. A bench warrant was issued, but Cave could not be immediately located. Based on further investigation, it was learned Cave was possibly in the Baltimore area where task force officers were able to locate and apprehend him after a brief foot pursuit. Cave was transported back to Charles County where he is being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center.

Detectives identify suspect in murder case on Albermarle Place / Warrant Fugitive Unit locates suspect: On August 9 at 3 p.m., members of the CCSO Warrant Fugitive Unit located and arrested Ricardo Kevon Colbert-Lyles, age 22, of Waldorf, who had an active warrant for his arrest in connection with the shooting death of Aden Christopher Garcia, age 19. Garcia was shot and killed in October 2022 on Albermarle Place in Waldorf. In the case, Garcia was in a vehicle when he was shot several times. He was transported to a hospital where he died a few days later. Detectives assigned to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division pursued leads and subsequently identified the suspect as Colbert-Lyles. An arrest warrant was obtained on July 28. Colbert-Lyles was charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and other related charges. He is currently being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. Detective A. Worley is investigating.

The Jaguar has been identified as a 2016 or newer F Pace SUV. The vehicle will have under carriage damage to its windscreen/airdam and will be missing its right rear wheel well cover. Below is a picture of an exemplar vehicle:

(Newburg, Maryland) – On Saturday, August 12, 2023, at approximately 2117 hours, Troopers from Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to United States Route 301 (Crain Hwy) north of Maryland Route 234 (Budds Creek Rd) for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision. Due to the circumstances, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to assume the investigation. A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the MSP CRASH Team indicates a Harley Davidson MC operated by John Milton Jones (57 yoa) of Heathsville, VA was traveling on southbound United States Route 301 north of Maryland Route 234. At the same time, a Kia Rio operated by Stanley Chrusciel (68 yoa) of Clinton, MD was in lane number one slowing as he approached the left turn lane for Maryland Route 234. For unknown reasons, the Harley Davidson collided into the rear of the Kia. Mr. Jones was ejected from the motorcycle and landed in lane number one of southbound United States Route 301. Two unknown vehicles subsequently struck Mr. Jones while he laid in the road and did not remain at the scene. Investigators believe one of the two vehicles was a Jaguar. Investigators are still trying to identify the model of the Jaguar and the other vehicle involved. Mr. Jones sustained injuries not compatible with life and was pronounced deceased on the scene. Anyone who may have witnessed this crash or has knowledge of the unknown vehicle(s) is asked to contact the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack Duty Officer at 301-392-1200 or Sergeant J. Zimmerman of the MSP CRASH Team at (301) 392-1231. The investigation is continuing. (23- MSP-028550)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) joined Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.) in reintroducing the Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act, legislation to ban dangerous “ghost guns” and codify the Biden administration’s Ghost Gun Rule, which is currently threatened by a Texas federal judge’s ruling to invalidate the ghost gun regulation. While the Supreme Court recently ruled to uphold the regulation while the decision is appealed, this action is not final, highlighting the need for codification.

Currently, “ghost guns”, which are easily assembled with a 3-D printer or a do-it-yourself gun-making kit purchased from an unlicensed seller, can be obtained without passing a background check and have become the weapon of choice for criminals and extremists. Without a unique serial number, these guns are often untraceable and impede investigations by law enforcement. The bill would require online and other sellers of gun-making kits to comply with federal firearm safety regulations.

“Undetectable and untraceable firearms are a significant danger to our society. We need to get these deadly and far too easy-to-make ghost guns off our streets to keep our communities safe. This critical legislation would bring us one step closer to ending our country’s gun violence epidemic,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“The Biden administration took decisive action to close this dangerous ghost gun loophole, and unfortunately the courts have delayed its implementation,” said Senator Cardin. “Untraceable firearms are a growing risk in our communities facing gun violence. Congress should act quickly to permanently codify the ATF’s authority to help keep our neighborhoods safe.”

“Ghost guns are a major threat to public safety and law enforcement’s ability to protect our communities,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Without serial numbers and readily available for anyone to assemble, these untraceable weapons are a convenient tool for those that hope to cause harm. Our measure closes the gaping loopholes that allow domestic abusers, criminals, and terrorists to bypass background checks. A homemade gun is still a gun. Subjecting these weapons to the same safety measures and requirements will save lives.”

“Gun violence has taken far too many lives and affected countless families around our nation,” said Congressman Espaillat. “Ghost guns are propelling this crisis, as these weapons are self-assembled, untraceable, and can allow criminals to evade firearm background checks. This has presented an ever-growing challenge for law enforcement agencies, as the number of ghost guns recovered at crime scenes has increased exponentially over the past few years alone. Our bill, the Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act, would codify the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms’ (ATF’s) authority to regulate and track these deadly weapons. We cannot ignore the public health implications facing the country as a direct result of ghost guns and our bill would implement commonsense solutions to help combat this crisis.”

The use of “ghost guns” across the country has been dramatically increasing. According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the number of “ghost guns” recovered and traced by law enforcement went from 1,629 in 2016 to 19,273 in 2021, a more than 1000% increase.

Specifically, the Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act would permanently include the core building blocks of “ghost guns”–unfinished frames and receivers–in the definition of “firearm” under federal law. In doing so, online and other gun kit manufacturers and distributors selling frames and receivers that can “readily” be converted into fully functional weapons would be required to comply with the same federal regulations that govern the production and distribution of completed firearms.

It also includes a requirement that sellers have a manufacturer’s license and put a serial number on the frame or receiver included in each kit, and that purchasers undergo a background check.

Senators Van Hollen and Cardin have fought for years to ban ghost guns and take action to reduce gun violence. In January 2022, Senators Van Hollen and Cardin urged President Biden to take swift action to close ghost gun loopholes nationwide. The Senators also fought to pass the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, legislation that was signed into law last year, which included first steps to prevent gun violence and saves lives across the country. This past January, the Senators joined in introducing a pair of bills to reinstate the assault weapons ban.

The Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act, led by Senator Blumenthal in the Senate, is cosponsored by, in addition to Senators Van Hollen and Cardin, U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

In the House, the bill is also led by, in addition to Congressman Espaillat, U.S. Representatives Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.), and Brad Schneider (D-Ill.). 

The legislation is endorsed by the Everytown for Gun Safety, Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Giffords, and Newtown Action Alliance.

Text of the Senate bill can be found here.

Sunday morning at 2:23 am fifty firefighters from the Solomons Volunteer Fire Department responded to a fire call at 432 Lake Drive, Lusby, Calvert County, Maryland. It took them twenty five minutes to control the fire. There were no injuries as a result of the fire.  The homeowners are being assisted by the American Red Cross.  Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Southern Regional Office, at 443-550-6835. The estimated loss in the fire was $200,000. 

Officers charge woman in connection with burglary and assault case: On August 5, during the early morning hours, Erica Brialle Jackson, 30, of Waldorf, broke into a former acquaintance’s residence in La Plata.  The victim, who was asleep in his room, was awakened by Jackson who punched him and bit him several times. She fled the scene when the victim called 9-1-1. Officers obtained an arrest warrant for Jackson, who was located on August 8 and charged with burglary and assault. On August 9, a district court commissioner released Jackson from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance.   

Man charged with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and resisting arrest: On August 6 at 8:27 a.m., officers responded to the 3000 block of October Place in Waldorf for the report of an injured person. A preliminary investigation revealed the suspect, Jasper Bernard Ford, age 36, of Waldorf, went to the location where he became involved in an argument with another male who lived there. Ford left and returned with a metal pole and a sword. Ford broke out a side window to the victim’s residence with the pole and then threatened the victim with the sword. The victim was able to disarm Ford and an altercation ensued. Ford picked up a large rock and threw it at victim. When officers arrived, Ford attempted to flee but was apprehended and transported to a hospital after indicating he was sick. While in route to the hospital, Ford spat at the officer and remained combative at the hospital. Following treatment, Ford was released to be transported to the Detention Center. He resisted arrest as officers attempted to handcuff him and he continued spitting at the officers. He was transported to the Charles County Detention Center where he was charged with first-degree-assault, second-degree assault, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. Ford was ordered held without bond by a judge.

Charles County Crime Solvers offering cash reward in robbery case: On August 4 at 4:22 p.m., a lone male suspect approached the victim who was in the backyard of his residence in the 3300 block of Malcolm Road in Brandywine. The suspect pulled a mask over his face, brandished a firearm and stole a motorcycle the victim was working on. The suspect fled on the motorcycle toward nearby power lines. Officers canvassed the area, but the suspect was not located. Officers are pursuing leads. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Levy at 301-609-3282 ext. 0682. 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. Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000. The investigation is ongoing.  

Charles County Crime Solvers offering cash reward in strong armed robbery case: On August 7 at 12:40 p.m., a male approached two teenaged females in the area of Light Arms Place in Waldorf, pushed them to the ground and stole their purses. One of the victims sustained minor injuries during the robbery. Officers are pursuing leads and ask anyone with information to call Officer Knight at 301-609-3282 ext. 0693. 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. Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000. 

(Newburg, Maryland) – On Saturday, August 12, 2023, at approximately 2117 hours, Troopers from Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to United States Route 301 (Crain Hwy) north of Maryland Route 234 (Budds Creek Rd) for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision. Due to the circumstances, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to assume the investigation. A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the MSP CRASH Team indicates a Harley Davidson MC operated by John Milton Jones (57 yoa) of Heathsville, VA was traveling on southbound United States Route 301 north of Maryland Route 234. At the same time, a Kia Rio operated by Stanley Chrusciel (68 yoa) of Clinton, MD was in lane number one slowing as he approached the left turn lane for Maryland Route 234. For unknown reasons, the Harley Davidson collided into the rear of the Kia. Mr. Jones was ejected from the motorcycle and landed in lane number one of southbound United States Route 301. Two unknown vehicles subsequently struck Mr. Jones while he laid in the road and did not remain at the scene. Investigators believe one of the two vehicles was a Jaguar. Investigators are still trying to identify the model of the Jaguar and the other vehicle involved. Mr. Jones sustained injuries not compatible with life and was pronounced deceased on the scene. Anyone who may have witnessed this crash or has knowledge of the unknown vehicle(s) is asked to contact the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack Duty Officer at 301-392-1200 or Sergeant J. Zimmerman of the MSP CRASH Team at (301) 392-1231. The investigation is continuing. (23- MSP-028550) 

Charles County Crime Solvers offering cash reward in shooting case: On August 7 at 11:02 p.m., officers responded to the 3000 block of Gallery Place in Waldorf to check on the welfare of a woman who had possibly been shot. A preliminary investigation revealed the victim was walking out of an apartment building on Gallery Place with another person when unknown suspect(s) fired multiple rounds from a firearm. The victim, an adult female, was struck by what appeared to be shrapnel; she was transported to a hospital. Detectives are pursuing leads and ask anyone with information about this case to contact Detective Singh at 301-609-6471. 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. A cash reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for the tip that leads to an arrest in this case. The investigation is ongoing.

During the week of July 31 – August 6, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,798 calls for service throughout the community.

Burglary: 23-55073

On August 4, 2023, Dep. Sylver responded to 5200 block of Williams Warf Road in Port Republic, for the report of a burglary. The complainant advised his side door had been kicked in and the door to the shed had been broken into. A search of the home revealed a dog bowl on the floor, and an open soda can on the counter. The homeowner advised he does not have animals. Nothing appears to have been stolen. The estimated value of damaged property is $80.

Damaged Property: 23-55558

On August 6, 2023, M/DFC Wood responded to the 1200 block of Dogwood Lane in Owings, for the report of damaged property. Contact was made with the complainant who advised sometime between 6 a.m. on Aug. 5 and 11:30 a.m. on Aug. 6, an unknown suspect(s) broke the passenger side window out of the victim’s vehicle. The estimated value of damaged property is $250.00.

Property Destruction:23-54585

On August 2, 2023, Deputy R. Jones responded to Cove Point Park located 750 Cove Point Road in Lusby, for the report of property destruction. Investigation revealed unknown suspects destroyed the restrooms at the park. Soap dispensers had been removed from the wall and stuffed inside the toilets. The soap dispenser covers had been ripped off and soap had been poured all over the bathroom floors. The estimated value of damaged property is unknown at this time.

Theft: 23-55140

On August 4, 2023, DFC Tavares responded to the 900 block of Guadaloupe Trail in Lusby, for the reported theft. The complainant advised sometime between 4 p.m. on 6:30 p.m., his green in color John Deere riding mower had been stolen from the yard of the residence. The estimated value of stolen property is $6,000.00.

Theft: 23-55102

On August 4, 2023, Deputy Claggett responded to the 2200 block of N. Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown, for the reported theft. The complainant advised sometime between July 28 and August 4, an unknown suspect(s) stole approximately 60-80 peaches from the victim’s peach tree. The estimated value of stolen property is $70.

ARRESTS

On August 1, 2023, Deputy Sylver responded to the Walmart located at 150 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of theft/trespassing. Contact was made with the complainant who advised a male suspect Marvin Eugene Briscoe, 41 of Hollywood, entered the store and grabbed several cell phones and iPads, but refused to pay. Briscoe was asked several times to leave the store by management and refused to do so. Briscoe was advised he was being trespassed from the store and was asked leave but refused. Briscoe was placed under arrest and arrested for Trespassing: Private Property.

On August 1, 2023, DFC Ostazeski and Cpl. Callison responded to the Giant located at 11740 Rousby Hall Road in Lusby, for report of loitering. The complainant advised a male subject had been hanging around the store and in the restroom for several hours at a time. Contact was made with the subject later identified as Gordon Gregory Torney, II, 35 of Lusby, who refused to provide identification or speak to deputies. Torney was advised he was no longer welcome on Giant’s property and asked to leave to which Torney refused. Torney refused to leave and was placed under arrest. A search incident to arrest revealed stolen grocery items valued at $20.32. Torney was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property, Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order, and Theft: Less than $100.

On August 2, 2023, Deputy T. Bowen responded to the Fastop located at 4990 Saint Leonard Road in Saint Leonard, for the report of a trespassing. The complainant advised a male suspect wearing a green shirt was urinating outside the store. Contact was made with Juan Adalberto Castillo-Castillo, 52 of no fixed address. Deputy Bowen advised Castillo-Castillo he was being trespassed from the property. Castillo-Castillo was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.
 

On August 2, 2023, Deputy Gadwill responded to the area of  Route 4 and Mountain Trail in Prince Frederick, for a traffic complaint. The complainant described a vehicle swerving in and out of traffic and almost striking other vehicles. Deputy Gadwill located the vehicle and observed multiple traffic violations and potential signs of impairment. A traffic stop was initiated, and contact was made with the driver, Luke Rashad Albanna, 40 of Huntingtown. Further investigation revealed, a large Bowie knife, 2 cut straws with a white powdery residue (suspected Percocet) and a vile also containing a white powdery residue was found inside the vehicle. Albanna was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and Concealing a Deadly Weapon.

Luke Rashad Albanna
 

DUI Arrests for the week of July 31 – August 6

Pax River Gate Closure Friday, Aug. 11

Naval Air Station Patuxent River will close Pax River's Gate 1 Friday, Aug. 11 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for continued maintenance. Pax River's Gate 2 will be open for traffic during this time.

NAS Patuxent River appreciates the patience of personnel and residents during these repairs.

Narcotics detectives charge suspect in connection with drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms: Detectives assigned to the Narcotics Enforcement Section have charged Irving Andraus Hill, age 37, of Waldorf, in connection with drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms. Following an investigation, detectives obtained a search warrant for Hill’s residence on Stream Vista Place. Upon serving the warrant, a large quantity of suspected methamphetamine, cocaine HCL, crack cocaine, suspected Eutylone/ N,N-Dimethylpentylone, and 274 grams of cannabis were recovered. In addition, a loaded rifle with an obliterated serial number, a fully-loaded handgun with a 30-round magazine, a 50-round drum magazine, and a 100-round drum magazine were also recovered from Hill’s apartment. The street value of the drugs recovered is approximately $96,000. Hill was charged with drug trafficking, possession with the intent to distribute drugs, illegal possession of firearms due to a previous felony conviction, and other related charges. A judge has ordered Hill to be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing.  

The Nanjemoy Community Center welcomes local businesses and individuals to participate in the 21st^th Anniversary of the Nanjemoy Heritage Day. This event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 14, at the Nanjemoy Community Center (4375 Port Tobacco Road, Nanjemoy) from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Registration is available for sponsors, vendors/exhibitors, or to participate in the parade and car show.

Exhibitor and sponsor registration information is available online at https://bit.ly/3OpI2W1. The registration deadline is Thursday, Sept. 14.

PEARL HARBOR – Petty Officer 2nd Class Aaron Young-Oliveira, a native of Waldorf, Maryland, is serving aboard USS Chung-Hoon, a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anna-Liesa Hussey, Navy Office of Community Outreach

Young-Oliveira, a 2019 graduate of North Point High School, joined the Navy three years ago.

“I joined the Navy because I needed a way to start a career,” said Young-Oliveira. "College wasn't really an option at that point in my life."

Today, Young-Oliveira relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Waldorf to succeed in the military.

“Growing up, my parents taught me that if I didn't want to do something more than once, that I needed to get it done right the first time,” said Young-Oliveira. "This is big in the Navy. Getting it done right the first time is the expectation."

USS Chung-Hoon is a guided-missile destroyer that provides a wide range of warfighting capabilities. The destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.

More than 300 sailors serve aboard USS Chung-Hoon. Their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry along with a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.

With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.

"Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy."

Serving in the Navy means Young-Oliveira is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“The Navy, along with our allies, supports national security by defending freedom, preserving economic prosperity, and keeping the seas open and free for countries around the world,” said Young-Oliveira.

Young-Oliveira and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“My proudest accomplishment so far has been completing a deployment,” said Young-Oliveira. "I never imagined myself in that environment and what it would take to get there, so I'm proud of myself for persevering through it."

As Young-Oliveira and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“Serving in the Navy means I have the opportunity to protect our nation,” said Young-Oliveira. "In return, the Navy trains me in a trade and offers free college. I'm here to build a career for myself. If I want to stay in, I have that option. However, if I don't want to stay in, the Navy has given me the skills to continue building my career as a civilian."

Young-Oliveira is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I'd like to thank my mom for supporting me, not only as a kid but also while I was transitioning into the Navy,” added Young-Oliveira. "I also want to thank my dad for guiding me into the Navy, because Lord knows he didn't want me to join the Army. Lastly, I want to thank my wife for supporting me and pushing me to be better."

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Aug. 9, 2023  – The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation (CCPR) announces drive lane improvement repair work will begin at Hallowing Point Park in Prince Frederick on or around Aug. 10. Crews will repair and pave the unpaved drive aisle area located at the back of Hallowing Point Park.

The improvement work is scheduled to last approximately four weeks, weather permitting. The area will remain open to traffic for the duration of the project as only one lane is being repaired at a time.

Please use caution and obey posted speed limits when driving in the park. Motorists are asked to remain patient while we work to improve park infrastructure for all patrons.

For more information, contact the Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation at 410-535-1600, ext. 2649, or by email at parksandrecreation@calvertcountymd.gov. Follow CCPR on Facebook at www.facebook.com/calvertcountyparks and on Instagram at @calvertcountyparksandrec for event updates, closures and other park-related news.

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 Recreation, Parks, and Tourism fall edition of The GUIDE will be available online on Wednesday, Aug. 16 at www.CharlesCountyParks.com.  The GUIDE contains information on park locations, community events, sports leagues, after school programs, aquatic programs, historic sites, and places to visit within the county.  Find out what is available in your area.

Read The GUIDE and see what programs interest you. Fun happens here! Online registration for most programs is available.  Connect with us and find out more about our programs on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CharlesCountyParksRecreation.

For more information on other events and opportunities offered by the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism, visit www.CharlesCountyParks.com or call 301-932-3470.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) today announced $15,910,021 in fiscal year 2023 Department of Homeland Security preparedness grants to strengthen security at houses of worship in Maryland. 

The federal funds come through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which helps high-risk nonprofits, including faith-based institutions, to obtain resources required to support and integrate preparedness activities with broader state and local efforts.

“Religious freedom is one of the defining promises of our democracy,” said the lawmakers. “As hate-fueled attacks increase throughout the country and world, we must dedicate our resources to protecting citizens who exercise the sacred right to practice their faith. These grants will ensure that houses of worship from Mountain Maryland to the Eastern Shore are equipped with the latest tools to keep their communities safe.”

A full list of the recipients is below:

• Adat Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation – $150,000
• Agudath Isreal of Greenspring - $150,000
• Ahavat Shalom Congregation Inc. - $150,000
• Bais Yaakov School for Girls, Inc. - $150,000
• Baltimore Children's Museum, INC, dba Port Discovery - $150,000
• Baltimore Hebrew Congregation - $150,000
• Bas Melech Performing Arts Center, Inc. - $150,000
• Beis Medrash of Ranchleigh, Inc. - $150,000
• Bells United Methodist Church – $150,000
• Beth Am In-Town Synagogue - $150,000
• Beth El Congregation of Baltimore, Inc. - $150,000
• Beth Shalom Congregation Inc. - $150,000
• Beth Sholom Congregation - $150,000
• Beth Sholom Congregation and Talmud Torah – $150,000
• Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha – Beltsville – $150,000
• Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation, Inc. - $150,000
• Bnai Shalom of Olney -- $150,000
• Chabad Community Center Germantown-Clarksburg – $150,000
• Chabad of Catonsville, Inc. - $150,000
• Cheder Chabad, Inc. - $150,000
• Chizuk Amuno Congregation and Schools - $150,000
• Chofetz Chaim Adath Bnei Israel Congregation Inc. - $150,000
• Community Christian Church of Maryland, Inc. $150,000
• Congregation Ariel Russian Community Synagogue, Inc. - $150,000
• Congregation Beit Yaakov - $150,000
• Congregation B'nai Tzedek – $150,000.00
• Congregation Kneseth Israel - $150,000
• Congregation Ohel Levi Yitzchok Lubavitch - $150,000
• Congregation Ohel Moshe - $150,000
• Congregation Tiferes Yisroel of Baltimore Incorporated - $150,000
• Emmanuel Baptist Church - $150,000
• Episcopal Church of Our Saviour, Hillandale -- $150,000
• First Christian Community Church of Annapolis - $150,000
• Greater Baltimore Church of Christ - $150,000
• Islamic Leadership Institute of America, Inc. - $150,000
• Islamic Society of Frederick - $150,000
• Islamic Society of Northern Baltimore, Inc. - $150,000
• Islamic Society of Western MD - $150,000
• Jewish Community Services  - $150,000
• Khal Ahavas Yisrael Tzemach Tzedek - $150,000
• Kol Torah of Baltimore Inc. - $150,000
• Lighthouse Christian Academy - $150,000
• Lubavitch of Howard County - $150,000
• Masjid Ul Haqq Inc. - $150,000
• Melvin J. Berman Hebrew Academy – $150,000
• Mesivta Neimus Hatorah Inc. - $150,000
• Miracle City Church - $150,000
• Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah Hebrew Congregation - $150,000
• Muslim Family Center Incorporated - $150,000
• New Shiloh Baptist Church - $150,000
• Ohel Yakov Congregation - $150,000
• Ohr Menachem Jewish Center, Inc. - $150,000
• Our Lady of the Mountains Roman Catholic Congregation, Inc. - $150,000
• Rock City Church, Inc. - $150,000
• Saint John's Catholic Prep - $150,000
• Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church - $150,000
• Shearith Israel Congregation Inc. - $150,000
• Shomrim of Baltimore Inc. - $150,000
• Sri Siva Vishnu Temple Trust -- $150,000
• St. Charles Lifestream Church of the Nazarene - $150,000
• St. John Catholic Church - $150,000
• St. Matthews United Methodist Church – $150,000
• STAR-K Certification, Inc. - $150,000
• Suburban Orthodox Congregation - $150,000
• The Community of Kollel Inc. - $150,000
• The Islamic Society of Baltimore MD, Inc. - $150,000
• The Orthodox Congregation of Silver Spring – $150,000
• Torah Institute of Baltimore Dba Machzikei Torah Inc - $150,000
• Trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church - $150,000
• Joy Reigns Lutheran Church - $149,989
• First Baptist Church of Crofton - $149,968
• Mikvah of Baltimore, Inc. - $149,860
• Saint Jane Frances de Chantal Church - Rectory-Office Facility – $149,875
• Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Roman Catholic Congregation, Inc. - $149,830
• Saint Jane Frances de Chantal Church - Church Facility – $149,730
• Holy Family Catholic Church - $149,702
• Greater Grace World Outreach, Inc. - $149,657
• Saint Jane Frances de Chantal Church - School Facility – $149,575
• Forcey Bible Church – $149,561
• Islamic Society of Carroll County - $149,546
• Shaare Torah, Inc – $149,000
• Turkish American Community Center, Inc – 9610 – $148,887
• Free Gospel Church of Bryans Road, Inc. - $148,050
• Ames United Methodist Church - $147,905
• The Salvation Army (Boys & Girls Club of Glen Burnie) - $147,000
• Turkish American Community Center, Inc. – 9710 – $146,138
• Elderon Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, Inc. - $142,000
• Easton Church of God - $140,904
• St. Michael's Poplar Springs Roman Catholic Congregation, Inc. - $138,252
• Christ Reformed United Church of Christ - $133,981
• Miracle International Praise Ministries – $131,000
• Wilson United Methodist Church - $130,900
• Jewish Uniformed Service Association of Maryland - $126,525
• Jewish Cemetery Association of Greater Baltimore - $125,000
• Cherubim & Seraphim Surulere Church of Maryland - $121,150
• Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis - $117,805
• Friends Meeting School, Inc - $106,350
• Mercaz Torah and Tefilah Inc - $105,000
• First Baptist Church of Highland Park – $103,700
• Heritage Baptist Church - $102,100
• New Beginnings Seventh Day Adventist Church - $100,000
• St. Maria Goretti Catholic High School - $98,912
• Community Christian Church of Maryland Inc. - $98,125
• Central Baptist Church of Baltimore City - $93,770
• Prince George’s Muslim Association, Inc. – $91,400
• West Liberty United Methodist Church - $87,800
• Real Life Wesleyan Church - $87,163
• Galilee Baptist Church – $81,025
• Hatzalah of Baltimore, Inc. - $63,000
• Chesapeake Church - $62,187
• Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church - $62,050
• The Beth Abraham Congregation of Baltimore City - $60,000
• Mosdos Kehal Chassidim Inc. - $60,000
• Kehilath Bnai Torah - $56,000
• Real Life Wesleyan Church - $55,663
• Hatzalah of Baltimore, Inc. - $52,600
• Manna Bible Baptist Church - $45,886
• Shechem Covenant Outreach Ministries – $45,500

The Department of Homeland Security awarded more than $2 billion in FY 2023 to help prepare against threats and natural disasters. The total amount for each grant program is set by Congress and the allocations are made by the Department.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will begin assisting community members in applying for Medicaid health insurance at the Charlotte Hall Library. Regularly scheduled help sessions begin Thursday, August 10, 2023 from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m., and continue on the 2nd and 4th Thursday each month through December. Medicaid Specialists will be on-site to provide guidance through the Medicaid insurance application process. Community members may still receive assistance with health insurance enrollment at the SMCHD main office in Leonardtown Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (walk-ins accepted until 4:00 p.m.) and at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub in Lexington Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Appointments are highly recommended to avoid wait times; however, walk-ins will be welcomed as scheduling permits.
 
“We hope community members will take advantage of this convenient service,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Navigating the health insurance process can sometimes be overwhelming - our dedicated SMCHD medicaid specialists are here to provide support.”
 
For questions or to make an appointment, please call 301-904-8949 or email smchd.healthhub@maryland.gov.
 
To learn more about state health insurance programs, please visit smchd.org/healthinsurance. 

Update, 08/08/2023: 5:42 p.m., work has been completed and water service is restored

Communities surrounding Webster Outlying Field are advised that there will be weekend Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) test events scheduled to take place Aug. 19-20, 2023 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

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. 

Today, 08/06/2023, 11:25 a.m., work is underway by the Department of Public Works (DPW), Utilities Division, to repair a broken water main in the Pinefield Subdivison.  The repairs will affect Daniel Circle 5600 to 5614 and Doris Drive 5300 to 5326.  Starting at 11:30 a.m. until approximately 5:00 p.m. today. We thank you in advance for your patience and understanding. For questions, contact DPW 301.609.7400.

Patrol officers recover loaded firearm during investigation: On August 5 at 4:11 a.m., officers investigated a suspicious vehicle located in the area of Chestnut Drive in Waldorf. During the investigation, officers recovered a firearm from a passenger in the car which was found to be loaded with 17 rounds of ammunition. The suspect, Dejaunte Marquise Thomas, 18, of Waldorf, is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his age. He was arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm, transporting a loaded firearm in a vehicle, and other related charges. On August 5, a district court commissioner released Thomas from the Charles County Detention Center on a $3,500 unsecured bond. M/Cpl. Saunders is investigating.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Aug. 8, 2023 – The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Bruce Miller as the county government director of the Department of Finance & Budget, effective Aug. 7, 2023. Miller brings a wealth of experience in financial management from both the public and private sectors.

Throughout his career, Miller has held prominent roles as finance director for numerous municipal governments, including the City of Lake Worth Beach, Florida; City of Annapolis, Maryland; City of Providence, Rhode Island; towns of Plymouth, Provincetown, and the Town and County of Nantucket, Massachusetts, as well as within the federal government and private sector bank management.

"We are pleased to welcome Bruce Miller to our team as the director of Finance & Budget," said Commissioner President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance. "His remarkable achievements in implementing cost-saving measures and driving strategic financial planning will undoubtedly be an invaluable asset to Calvert County as we continue to progress and strengthen our fiscal practices."

"Mr. Miller’s impressive experience in finance, coupled with his exceptional track record of financial management, will elevate our county's fiscal management to new heights,” said County Administrator Mark Willis. “With his leadership and dedication to transparency, we look forward to even greater financial stability and success for the benefit of our community."

Among his major accomplishments are the successful finalization of pension obligation bond discussions through interest-based bargaining, which led to the restructuring of pension and other post-employment benefits (OPEB). Miller also introduced an innovative employee benefits administration program with potential annual savings of up to $4 million.

Recognizing the importance of technology-driven solutions, Miller implemented a time and attendance software system and spearheaded the implementation of a pension software system, which led to significant annual and actuarial savings. Miller has played a pivotal role in implementing and expanding integrated software systems, including financial/general ledger and land-based systems. Additionally, he improved debt management and investment policies, and introduced new cash management and banking procedures. These initiatives not only resulted in annual cost savings but also increased interest revenue and decreased risk exposure.

Miller’s efforts in financial and budgetary reporting have been recognized through continued reporting compliance associated with changing Governmental Accounting Standards Board statement requirements. He successfully obtained and maintained Government Finance Officers Association distinguished reporting and budgeting awards, showcasing his commitment to transparency and financial stewardship.

Even during challenging economic conditions, Miller managed financial matters when facing the loss of payment in lieu of tax (PILOT) payments, local and state receipts exceeding $50 million. Miller's efforts have also been instrumental in improving audit opinions and credit ratings. He played a key role in managing multiple bond issuances and successfully led the sale of revenue bonds, making his municipality the second in the state of Maryland to achieve such a feat.

Miller holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Baltimore.

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.

Crime Solvers offering reward in carjacking case: On August 6 at 12:28 p.m., several suspects drove up to a woman who was getting into her vehicle in the parking lot of St. Charles Towne Center. Two male suspects exited the car, pulled the woman from her vehicle, and stole her black Ford Edge. The suspects fled in the victim’s car and the silver vehicle they drove up in. The woman was not injured and called police. Officers canvassed the area and detectives are pursuing leads. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Detective Wimberly at 301-609-6491. 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. Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest in this case. 

(White Plains, Maryland) – On Saturday, August 05, 2023, at approximately 0851 hours, Troopers from Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to United States Route 301 (Crain Hwy) north of Rhodes Way for a report of a body off the roadway in a ditch. Due to the circumstances, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to assume the investigation. A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the MSP CRASH Team indicates a pedestrian identified as William Lewis Bowen 3rd (35 yoa) of Waldorf, Maryland was walking on northbound United States Route 301 north of Rhodes Way in White Plains, Maryland. An unknown vehicle struck Mr. Bowen and fled the scene. Investigators believe the collision occurred between 2353 hours on August 4, 2023 and 0851 hours on August 5, 2023. Mr. Bowen sustained injuries not compatible with life and was pronounced deceased on the scene. Anyone who may have witnessed this crash or has knowledge of the unknown vehicle with possible windshield damage is asked to contact the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack Duty Officer at 301-392-1200 or Sergeant J. Zimmerman of the MSP CRASH Team at (301) 392-1231. The investigation is continuing. (23-MSP-027693)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) today announced $69,722,636 in fiscal year 2023 Department of Homeland Security preparedness grants for the State of Maryland and Capital Region.

·     State Homeland Security Program, $7,074,841 to support state and local law enforcement agencies with the implementation of state homeland security strategies to address identified planning, organization, equipment, training and exercise needs to prevent, protect against, prepare for and respond to acts of terrorism throughout the state.

·     Emergency Management Performance Grant Program, $6,560,623 for the Maryland Emergency Management Agency to prepare for all types of hazards, including natural disasters and severe weather events.

·     Urban Area Security Initiative, $3,800,000 for state administrative agencies in the Baltimore region and $50,360,095 for the National Capital Region to address the unique planning, organization, equipment, training and exercise needs associated with preventing and responding to acts of terrorism in a high-risk, urban area.

·     Port Security Grant Program, $1,903,449 to implement Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans among port authorities and facility operators, and strengthen security at Maryland ports, including the Port of Baltimore:

o   Maryland Natural Resources Police, $361,680

o   Maryland State Police, $317,041

o   Maryland Transportation Authority Police, $731,250

o   Prince George’s County Police Department, $493,478

·     Intercity Bus Security Grant Program, $23,628 to protect critical surface transportation infrastructure and riders from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of transit infrastructure.

“Marylanders deserve to feel safe in their communities,” said the lawmakers. “This federal funding will ensure that our first responders are better able to handle emergency situations, help our communities prepare for and respond to severe weather events and provide us with the latest tools to intervene before threats become reality – ultimately saving lives.”

The Department of Homeland Security awarded more than $2 billion in FY 2023 to help prepare against threats and natural disasters. The total amount for each grant program is set by Congress and the allocations are made by the Department.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (August 7, 2023) - The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is offering American Red Cross adult and pediatric First Aid, CPR, and automated external defibrillator (AED) certification to members of the community. SMCHD is certified as an American Red Cross training facility. Designed and taught by experts, the Red Cross training course satisfies OSHA-mandated job requirements, workplace or other regulatory requirements, and is also offered to community members who would like to learn these life-saving skills. This course includes student supplies and a 2-year certification.
 
With in-person or blended (a combination of online and in-person) learning class formats, community members can learn the latest life-saving skills and train in the way that best suits them. The in-person format will be a six-hour in-person class and the blended format will include three hours of online training followed by a three-hour in-person class. The fee for certification is $80 per person - a sliding scale fee is available for community members unable to afford the full fee. Payment will be required at the in-person skills classes - cash, check, or credit card are accepted. Due to a maximum capacity of 16 participants per class, classes will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis - registration is required.
 
The first six-hour in-person training will be held on August 29, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the SMCHD main office in Leonardtown. The first blended-format training will have its in-person skills class on August 28, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the SMCHD main office. All assigned online training must be completed prior to the 3 hour in-person skills class. 
 
"These rescue skills save lives every day in work, home, and community settings. Anyone can get certified and become a part of our county's first-line response to life emergencies,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “The classes will also be an important resource for healthcare, first responder, childcare, and recreation/fitness organizations needing to keep their workforce certified."
 
For more information and to register for a training, please visit smchd.org/cpr.

On 08/05/23 at 4:32pm officers responded to the area of Newtowne Neck Road and Rosebank Road for the reported head on collision involving a motorcycle. As the motorcycle operator was being prepped for transport by helicopter, CPR was started, and he was subsequently ground transported to St Mary’s Hospital. The Collision Reconstruction Unit was requested and responded to the scene to assume the investigation. Preliminary investigation revealed a 2007 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic, operated by William Noah Friess 24 of Leonardtown, was traveling southbound on Newtowne Neck Road when the operator crossed the centerline and struck a 2006 Nissan Sentra, operated by Enry David Aguilar Lemus 49 of Hyattsville. Friess was ejected from the motorcycle and ultimately transported to St Mary’s Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased. Aguilar was transported to St Mary’s Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. At this time speed and operator error appear to be contributing factors in the collision. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or events leading up to the collision are asked to contact Sgt. Brian Connelly at (301) 475-4200 Ext. 8031 or by email at brian.connelly@stmaryscountymd.gov. 

Charles County, MD…Sheriff Troy Berry, along with Charles County Detention Center Director Ryan Ross, is pleased to announce that Captains Matthew Dixon and Tony Oliver recently graduated from the National Jail Leadership Command Academy (NJLCA) held at the George J. Beto Criminal Justice Center at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas.

The NJLCA provides students with training for succession preparation and develops leadership skills to successfully transition into senior leadership positions within jails. Topics covered include essential leadership, self-awareness, managing with data, agency internal culture, collaboration for jail leaders, managing generations in the workplace, workforce development, organization and personal leadership development, budget and strategic planning, and managing change.

“It is critically important we provide opportunities for our Commanders to enhance their leadership skills and deliver professional management for personnel working in the Corrections Division,” said Sheriff Berry. “We are proud of Captain Dixon and Captain Oliver for their commitment to take on these responsibilities.”  

Captain Dixon has served as a Correctional Officer for over 26 years. During his career, Captain Dixon has served in Custody & Security, Transport, Court Holding, Records, Office of Professional Responsibility, Central Processing, Shift Commander, Commander of Custody and Security, and is currently the Commander of Special Services. “The NJLCA was unique for me in that it was the first leadership training that I’ve attended that focused specifically and entirely on Corrections. Additionally, being able to network with Correctional leaders from all over the country was an invaluable experience,” said Captain Dixon.   

Captain Oliver has served as a Correctional Officer for 18 years, starting in Custody and Security, Classification, Work Release, and the Office of Professional Responsibility. He currently manages the Custody and Security Section of the Corrections Division. “I look forward to implementing the techniques and skills I learned as the art of leadership is ever changing in law enforcement,” said Captain Oliver.

Director Ross said, “Investing in the professional growth and development of our staff is paramount to our mission. We strive to provide peace-of-mind to the community we serve through exceptional performance and correctional service innovation.”

The 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.

Charles County Crime Solvers offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of a person responsible for a crime in Charles County. All individuals who provide tips through Crime Solvers will remain anonymous. Anyone with information about an unsolved crime or the location of a fugitive 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, which can be found in the Android Store and Apple store by searching P3tips. For more information about the P3 program, click on this link: www.p3intel.com. 

August 4, 2023: On 08/03/23 at 4:56pm officers responded to the area of Three Notch Road and East Rennell Avenue for the reported motor vehicle collision involving a motorcycle. Upon arrival, the operator of the motorcycle was pronounced deceased, and the Collision Reconstruction Unit was requested to assume the investigation. Preliminary investigation revealed a 2012 Ford Explorer, operated by Christine Elizabeth Bowling 38 of Hollywood, was attempting to make a U-turn when she failed to yield right of way to the motorcycle. The motorcycle, a 2023 Kawasaki ZX636 operated by Jake Alexander Garrett 28 of Lexington Park, collided with the Explorer, causing Garrett to be ejected. Garrett was pronounced deceased on the scene and Bowling was transported to an area hospital for treatment. At this time speed appears to be a contributing factor in the collision. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or events leading up to the collision are asked to contact Cpl. Shawn Shelko at (301) 475- 4200 Ext. 8147 or by email at Shawn.Shelko@stmaryscountymd.gov. 

On Tuesday, August 1, 2023, around 3:10 p.m., Calvert County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the 1600 block of Mint Court in Prince Frederick, for the report of a shooting. Deputies arrived on scene and located Dakarai Nivek Milburn, 23 of Prince Frederick, suffering from a single gunshot wound to the chest. Life saving measures were attempted, but Milburn was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Detectives quickly apprehended the suspect, Anthony NMN Hill, 28 of Washington D.C.

A handgun was recovered on scene. This was an isolated incident.

As a result of the investigation, Hill has been charged with First-Degree Murder, Second-Degree Murder, and an array of handgun offenses. Hill is being held on a no bond status.

Anyone with information about this incident, is asked to please contact Det. J. Buck at Joshua.Buck@calvertcountymd.gov.

Leonardtown, MD— The public is invited to attend Wharf Fest 2023 during August First Friday weekend (Friday, August 4th – Sunday, August 6th) in honor of the 15th Anniversary of the Leonardtown Wharf Waterfront Park. The public event hours for the 3-day celebration are Friday & Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. In addition to the World’s Largest Rubber Duck attraction (also known as Mama Duck), the event includes live music, kayak and duck raft rides, cruises, a Duck Scavenger Hunt, a vendor & craft fair, games, food and fun at the Wharf, on the Square, in LTown Alley and throughout Town at participating businesses. Please note that Wharf Hill will be closed at the corner of Washington St. and Lawrence Avenue, and public parking will not be available at the Wharf during the weekend. Everyone is asked to park in the overflow parking lots provided (Friday – Sunday at Ryken High School, Leonardtown Elementary School, Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary School in addition to Saturday and Sunday at the Governmental Center), and to walk or ride one of the FREE trollies or shuttles provided. Residents who live beyond this point will be given parking passes for the weekend (affected businesses will also receive passes). Please obey the parking and detour signs posted for your safety. The Wharf Waterfront Park will be closed outside of the noted public event hours. The boat slips will also be closed during this time and Mama Duck will be taken down and will not be available for viewing. Please be sure to plan your visit during the noted public viewing hours above.

A designated handicap parking lot will be available for the 3-day event at the lot on Lawrence Avenue across from the Mattingley Gardiner Funeral Home and the original Slice House location (the handicap placard must be displayed in plain view for access). A designated golf cart will provide transportation to and from the event at the Wharf or the Square.

For details about the event and to download the event map visit: visitleonardtownmd.com/wharffest

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning invites county residents to participate in the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance update process. Citizens are invited to participate through public comment, a public forum and observing work sessions and meetings, to have a voice in shaping local development and land use policies and actively contribute to the well-being and future of the community.

The next phase of events will receive and consider feedback and recommendations on the following articles:

·         Article 22 – Critical Area (view draft Article 22): This article provides regulations that establish and implement the Critical Area resource protection program for the land immediately surrounding the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The goals of the Critical Area Program are to minimize the adverse impacts on water quality; conserve fish, wildlife and plant habitat; and establish land use policies for development in the Critical Area.

·         Article 23 – Marine and Water Dependent Facilities (view draft Article 23): This article provides regulations for the development of the waterfront areas of the county. This article applies to and governs the construction of all marine facilities within Calvert County, in addition to existing federal and state regulations.

·         Article 24 – Floodplain (view draft Article 24): This article establishes regulations to safeguard public health, safety and welfare by preventing flood damage, maintaining natural drainage, reducing financial burdens on the community, minimizing rescue efforts and ensuring responsible construction practices in flood-prone areas while meeting participation requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program. These regulations apply to all special flood hazard areas in Calvert County.

Public Comment Period, Aug. 7-Sept. 1: The public comment period begins Monday, Aug. 7 and ends Friday, Sept. 1. Comments may be submitted by email to ZOupdate@calvertcountymd.gov or by mail Attn: ZO Update, 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

Public Forum, Aug. 24: A public forum will be held Thursday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m. at the Harriet E. Brown Community Center located at 901 Dares Beach Road, Prince Frederick. Doors open at 6 p.m. During the forum with zoning staff, members of the public will have the opportunity to ask questions. The public may attend in-person or virtually through Zoom by calling 888-475-4499, enter meeting ID 870 4870 1285 and passcode “#.”

Joint Work Session, Sept. 20: A joint work session with the Board of County Commissioners and Planning Commission is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 20.

The update process schedule for each phase and draft articles can be viewed online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/ZoningOrdinanceUpdate. These dates may be subject to change.

The Calvert County Zoning Ordinance regulates land usage, 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).

For questions or further information, contact Rachel O'Shea at 410-535-1600, ext. 2339, or by email at rachel.oshea@calvertcountymd.gov, or Will Hager at 410-535-1600, ext. 8553, or by email at will.hager@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.

CCSO’s Neighborhood Enforcement Team recovers large amount of illegal drugs in drug distribution case: On July 27, members of the CCSO’s Neighborhood Enforcement Team were in the 10100 block of Berry Road investigating a suspicious vehicle. During the investigation, officers recovered N-Dimethylpentylone, a powder similar to MDMA,­ and commonly known as ecstasy, molly and or boot. In addition, scales and drug packaging equipment were recovered. Joseph Lenord Bourne, 36, of Waldorf was arrested and charged with possession with the intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, and other related charges. On July 27, a district court commissioner released Bourne from the Charles County Detention Center on an unsecured $10,000 bond. The Neighborhood Enforcement Team is investigating.

Patrol Officers arrest 15-year-old with illegal possession of a firearm: On July 25 at 6:17 p.m., officers responded to the area of Albermarle Place in Waldorf for the report of possible illegal drug activity and gambling. When officers arrived, they observed a juvenile male who appeared to have a handgun in his waistband. As officers approached, the juvenile fled. He was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. A K9 team arrived and conducted an article search, locating a 9mm polymer “ghost gun” in the area where the juvenile fled. The juvenile, age 15, was charged on a juvenile offense report with illegal possession of a firearm due to age, possession of a firearm on person, and illegal gambling. POII Butler is investigating.

Calvert County, Maryland, has been ranked as the No. 1 Digital County in the nation among counties with populations up to 150,000 by the Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo).

The Digital Counties Survey is an annual measure of technology performance and innovation. The survey, now in its 20^th year, identifies the best technology practices among U.S. counties, including initiatives that streamline delivery of government services; provide data analytics to allow decisions based on performance and outcomes; enhance cybersecurity; and apply innovative and emerging technologies to county priorities. The award places Calvert County among a distinguished group of counties that have worked to improve their digital, citizen and government experience through technology and leadership. This is the first year Calvert County has participated in the survey.

As reasons for receiving top honors, CDG and NACo highlighted Calvert County’s work to implement a range of cutting-edge technologies, including a new human resources and enterprise resource planning system; a new inspections and permits system that reduced the average permit review time by more than half; an updated golf course management system for the Chesapeake Hills Golf Course; tools to analyze real-time data for constituent feedback and sentiment; and integration of ChatGPT into business processes after a thorough security assessment and usage guidelines were put into place; among other accomplishments.

“This recognition is a testament to Calvert County’s commitment to using technology for the benefit of our community,” said Calvert County Commissioner President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance. “Through innovative digital solutions, Calvert is transforming the way we provide services, engage with our community and drive economic growth. It is an honor to be recognized as a technology leader as we continue to explore new advancements that will improve the lives of Calvert County residents.”

“We are honored and thrilled to receive this honor,” said Technology Services Director Stephen Pereira. “This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of our talented team and the support of our forward-thinking leadership. We will continue pushing the boundaries of technology, embracing emerging trends and ensuring that Calvert County remains at the forefront of digital innovation to deliver exceptional services to our residents.”

Winners were named in each of five population-based categories:

·         Fairfax County, Va (1,000,000 or more)

·         Prince George’s County, Md. (500,000-999,999)

·         Prince William County, Va. (250,000-499,000)

·         Arlington County, Va. (150,00-249,999)

·         Calvert County, Md. (up to 150,000)

Learn more about the Calvert County Department of Technology Services and how it serves the community at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/TechnologyServices. 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 North Beach Senior Center will reopen on Thursday, Aug. 3 with normal hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The center temporarily closed on July 10 due to a burst water pipe. The Department of Community Resources, Office on Aging, thanks residents for their patience and understanding while county staff worked to ensure the building was safe to reopen.

For more information on senior centers and programs offered for Calvert County’s seniors, contact the Office on Aging at 410-535-4606 or visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Aging.

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.

NAS Patuxent River and Webster Outlying Field will close the following gates Friday, Aug. 4 for scheduled maintenance:  

Pax River Gate 1 – closed from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.  

Webster Front Gate – closed from 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.  

Pax River’s Gate 2 and Webster Field's Back Gate will be open for traffic during these times.   

LEONARDTOWN, MD – From local farmers to your plate! The second annual Farmers Feeding St. Mary’s program will offer farm fresh produce free to the community.

There will be two food distribution dates/locations for this program:

Thursday, August 17, 2023 (1 p.m. – 7 p.m.)

Bay District Volunteer Fire Department

46900 S. Shangri-La Dr, Lexington Park

Saturday, September 16, 2023 (9 a.m. – 1 p.m.)

U-Haul Moving & Storage parking lot

46041 Signature Lane, Lexington Park

A variety of fresh produce, such as corn, tomatoes, squash, and more will be available at each event! In addition to produce, frozen meat will be available at the September 16^th event.

Family units will be limited to one box of produce per event. Food distribution will continue until indicated event end time or until produce runs out.

The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, the St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services, the St. Mary’s County Department of Economic Development, Feed St. Mary’s, and the University of Maryland College of Agriculture and Natural Resources are pleased to offer this valuable community event!

For more information, please call (301) 475-4200, ext. 1050, or visit stmaryscountymd.gov.

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 The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter invites citizens to adopt during the month-long Clear the Shelters adoption event beginning Tuesday, Aug. 1, through Thursday, Aug. 31. The shelter will waive adoption fees for adoptable animals during this campaign, made possible through a collaborative effort between Friends of the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and the Board of County Commissioners. Regular adoption procedures still apply during the event.

Clear the Shelters is an annual, nationwide pet adoption campaign that is spearheaded by NBCUniversal Local, a division of NBCUniversal. Since 2015, Clear the Shelters pet adoption campaign has resulted in more than a half million pets finding new homes. The 2022 nationwide campaign established a new record, with more than 161,000 adoptions. 

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter is an open admission animal shelter managed by the Animal Shelter Division of the Calvert County Department of Public Safety. Shelter hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To schedule an intake appointment, call
410-535-7387. The shelter is located at 5055 Hallowing Point Road in Prince Frederick.  Animals of all ages are available for adoption, including dogs, cats, rabbits, roosters, pigs and more. For more information about adopting from the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter visit www.CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com.

The shelter is always in need of donated items including blankets, toys, dry and canned food, carriers and more. Visit the shelter wish list for a full list of items. For monetary donations, citizens can contact the nonprofit organization Friends of the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter at 301-399-0107 or by visiting www.follkas.org.

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter welcomes volunteers and the positive difference they make to the animals’ lives by providing care, love and aiding in finding their forever homes.  Visit CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com/3189/Volunteer for more information on becoming a volunteer. 

Visit the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.

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 – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) is announcing a special event to help residents dispose of used tires.

St. Mary’s County residents may drop off passenger and light truck tires for free disposal on Saturday August 12, 2023, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the St. Andrews Landfill, located at 44837 St. Andrew’s Church Road in California, MD. Please note that:

• Only passenger and light truck tires will be accepted.
• Up to 10 tires per vehicle dropping off.
• Commercial vehicles/business tires prohibited.

For additional information, contact DPW&T at (301) 475-4200 ext. 3550. For landfill and convenience center hours and locations, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov/disposal

Charles County Environmental Resources Division encourages residents and businesses to help combat littering by “adopting” a County area or spot. The Adopt-A-Spot Program is a litter awareness campaign designed to aid in the removal of litter and debris from open public spaces around Charles County, such as parks, trails, and neighborhood playgrounds.

Residents, volunteer groups, and businesses can participate (supervision is required for ages 17 and younger). There is no cost to participate in this program. Volunteers will receive sign recognition in exchange for cleaning their spot at least three times in a calendar year. Gloves, bags, trash grabbers, and safety vests will be provided free of charge as well as trash disposal. 

The Adopt-A-Road and Adopt-A-Spot programs are community initiatives through the Environmental Resources Division that aim to enhance the cleanliness and appearance of local roadways and public spaces. Become an environmental steward for Charles County. An official sign will be installed on your adopted area recognizing your efforts to “Keep Charles County Beautiful.”

To participate in the Adopt-A-Road/Adopt-A-Spot program, visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/services/environmental-resources. For additional information, contact the Environmental Resources Division at 301-932-3599 or email AdoptARoad@CharlesCountyMD.gov. Residents with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is sponsoring a bus hotline for parents to call with questions about school bus routes. Bus routes, route information and pick-up and drop-off times will be loaded into School Locator, the mapping system used by CCPS, by Monday, Aug. 21. Bus information for students will also be loaded by Aug. 21 to ParentVue, under the Student Info menu area.    

Transportation staff are working to load route data into School Locator and will continue to do so through the opening of the school year. School Locator is available on the CCPS website here. The first day of school for students for the 2023-2024 school year is Monday, Aug. 28.  

The bus hotline will be available during the week prior to the opening of school, as well as the first two days of the school year. Call 301-932-6655 to access the hotline. The hotline schedule is below.  

• Aug. 21-25, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

   

• Aug. 28-29, 6 to 10 a.m., and 1 to 5:30 p.m.

   Please note the hotline is staffed with transportation staff, as well as CCPS staff members from different departments who volunteer their time to support the hotline during the opening of schools. Call volume is expected to be high; callers who are not able to reach a live person should attempt to call the hotline until they can connect with a staff member.  

Parents/guardians who do not see transportation information listed in School Locator, ParentVue or Where’s The Bus after Aug. 21 can reach out to the CCPS transportation department by email at ccpstransrouting@ccboe.com for assistance.  

School Locator is designed to allow the public to enter an address and see which three schools – elementary, middle and high – an address is zoned for. It also indicates if the address is eligible for bus transportation to a particular school, the bus number for each route and the location of the closest bus stop to the address. School Locator uses mapping data from the county and filters it by the system’s current school zones.  

School Locator does not include bus information for special needs students, which must be arranged through the IEP process at a child’s school. Students requiring special needs transportation will be contacted directly by transportation staff.  

Bus stop change requests must be submitted online through the school system website at https://www.ccboe.com/departments/transportation/help-tickets.  

Bus stops within established subdivisions are permanently placed at specific locations to ensure consistency and equity among riders. Buses may run later than normal during the first weeks of school to adjust for changes in routes and/or established stops.  

CCPS is also launching the “Where’s The Bus?” program this year in which parents can download a mobile app or create an online account to monitor their child’s buses daily. Data for the 2023-2024 school year will not be available in Where’s The Bus until Aug. 21. To learn more about Where’s The Bus, visit www.ccboe.com.  

Attached and linked below are the orientation and open house schedules for Charles County Public Schools for the 2023-2024 school year. We have posted the information on our website and social media accounts. Please consider sharing the content on your platforms. Thank you. 

https://www.ccboe.com/about/public-info-media/details/~board/press-releases/post/schools-set-dates-for-open-houses-back-to-school-nights

https://www.ccboe.com/about/public-info-media/details/~board/press-releases/post/schools-plan-orientation-events-for-parents-students

Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) was recently contacted by customer-members who received phone calls from scammers targeting the Southern Maryland area. Scammers may identify themselves as SMECO employees and demand payment with prepaid debit cards or bitcoin in order to avoid having electric service cut off. 

According to Tom Dennison, vice president of government and public affairs at SMECO, “Scammers often target businesses because they have higher monthly bills and they may have more than one person authorized to pay bills, making it easier to exploit the lack of communication between employees and business owners. But residential customer-members are at risk as well.” 

To cause further confusion, scammers can make the name of the utility appear on a customer’s caller ID, and they have improved their ability to trick people by duplicating voice recordings and imitating utility phone systems. 

Dennison said, “If customers receive a phone call from someone threatening to disconnect their power, they may hang up. If they want to verify account information, they can call SMECO directly. Our contact center is available at 1-888-440-3311, and it’s printed on every customer bill.” The following describes SMECO’s routine for collecting payments from customers.  

• SMECO will mail a termination notice if a bill is past due.

• SMECO calls customers who owe a past due balance using an automated phone system with a recorded message; rarely will SMECO employees make personal “collection” phone calls.  

• Collection calls are made about 10 days before service is to be terminated. SMECO does not require payment at the time of the call. 

• Unknown callers who give short deadlines and threaten to cut off service within an hour or two are probably running a scam.

• SMECO does not make collection calls or terminate service on weekends or holidays. 

• If service is going to be terminated, a SMECO collector will knock on the customer’s door before turning off service.  

• SMECO collectors will accept credit card payments, checks, or money orders, but they do not accept cash.

SMECO has issued alerts when customers have notified the cooperative that these scams are taking place. “Not only are scams a nuisance, but these crooks can steal thousands of dollars from unsuspecting residents and businesses,” said Dennison. “We want to help prevent this type of crime by educating our customers whenever we hear about people being tricked out of their hard-earned money.”

For customers who believe they have received a fraudulent email or phone call, some basic guidelines follow. 

• Customers should use the phone number printed on their monthly bill and only give payment information over the phone if they initiate the contact. 

• Customers should not provide personal information, banking information, user names, passwords, or account information to unauthorized callers or in an email.  

• Customers should not provide Green Dot, Western Union, or Moneygram payments to unauthorized callers. 

• Customers should never meet unauthorized callers at a local store or bank to make a payment—their personal safety could be at risk.

SMECO was incorporated in 1937 and is one of the 15 largest electric cooperatives in the United States with more than 170,000 member accounts in Charles County, St. Mary’s County, southern Prince George’s County, and most of Calvert County. 

Electric cooperatives are shaped by the communities they serve, because co-ops are owned by their customers.  Co-op members elect the men and women who serve on the Board of Directors. Members share the responsibility of ownership by financing the cooperative’s operations, but they also share its rewards.

At the end of each year, SMECO’s margins (profits) are allocated to members’ capital credit accounts. SMECO uses its profits to invest in new construction, system improvements, and facility upgrades. The Board of Directors regularly evaluates the financial condition of the co-op and determines when members will receive a refund. Since 1937, SMECO has refunded more than $128 million.

As a cooperative, SMECO will always put its members first and be responsive, reliable, and resourceful—the power you can count on.

Follow SMECO on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SMECO.coop and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/somdelectric. 

The SMECO 24/7 mobile app is available at www.smeco.coop/247.

The Calvert County Safety for Students Enforcement Program is in effect year-round.  The speed cameras will be moved randomly between the school zones.  As a courtesy, the locations of the cameras are posted on the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office website and Facebook page.  The goal of the cameras is to reduce the number of speeding offenses in school zones, reduce accidents in school zones, maximize the enforcement operations of the Sheriff’s Office, and to provide a deterrent to potential future violators.  To this end, a new automated speed enforcement site will be in the 2400 and 2500 block of Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown, in the northbound and southbound school zones of The Calverton School.  The current location of all speed camera enforcement sites consists of:

1. Huntingtown Elementary School
2. Northern High School
3. Northern Middle School
4. Dowell Elementary School
5. Mt. Harmony Elementary School
6. Windy Hill Elementary School
7. Calvert Country School
8. Mutual Elementary School
9. Mill Creek Middle School
10. Cardinal Hickey Academy
11. St. Leonard Elementary
12. The Calverton School     

Automated Speed Enforcement Cameras are activated Mondays through Fridays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. in designated school zones.  Violators must be travelling 12 mph over the posted speed limit for the camera to activate and a citation to be issued. A school zone speed camera violation is a $40 fine with no points. Citations are issued to the registered owner of the vehicle.  For a complete list of speed camera locations, go to the Calvert County Sheriff’s website at https://www.calvertcountymd.gov/2066/Speed-Cameras .  

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is seeking 10 volunteers to serve on its Career and Technical Education (CTE) steering committee. CTE programs provide high school students with opportunities to explore different career pathways while in high school.  

Committee volunteers must be able to attend four, 1.5 hour in-person meetings scheduled throughout the months of September and October at the Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building. The Starkey Building is located at 5980 Radio Station Road in LaPlata.  

The committee is tasked with reviewing and recommending how to best provide equitable CTE opportunities that are accessible to all students. The committee will also review data to identify student interest, enrollment trends and available resources.  

Community members ages 18 and older interested in serving on the steering committee should complete the interest form linked below by Friday, Aug. 18. Staff from the CCPS Office of Teaching and Learning will approve the selection of committee members. Questions should be directed to Rebecca Pearson at rpearson@ccboe.com or 301-932-6610.  

Click here to complete the interest form.