LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, October 25, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Monise A. Brown sentenced Antoine Jamel Bailey, 21, to 8 years in prison for two counts of Armed Robbery. Upon release, Bailey will be on supervised probation for five years.

On October 17, 2024, Bailey pled guilty to the aforementioned charges.

On September 11, 2023, officers with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Bank of America located in the 3200 block of Crain Highway in Waldorf for the report of an armed robbery.

An investigation revealed that a female victim went to the bank’s ATM to withdraw money. As she was walking back to her vehicle, she saw the suspect, later determined to be Bailey, walk toward her; however, she thought he was going to the ATM.  When the victim got into her vehicle, Bailey pulled out a handgun and pointed it at her brother, who was located on the passenger side of the vehicle. The brother’s window was rolled down halfway.

Bailey demanded that the two victims give him all their belongings. The female victim gave Bailey her purse, keys to her vehicle, and cell phone. Her brother gave Bailey his cell phone. Bailey then fled the area.

On September 19, 2023, officers in Prince George’s County apprehended Bailey during an armed robbery at another Bank of America. Bailey matched the description of the suspect of the armed robbery that occurred in Charles County on September 11, 2023, and his DNA was located on the exterior of the victim’s vehicle. Cell phone records also placed Bailey in the area during the robbery on September 11, 2023.

During sentencing, Assistant State’s Attorney Jonathan Beattie told the judge, “This crime was exceptionally violent and targeted innocent citizens going about their lives.”  He furthered that, “This is an extremely serious case to the State.”

Sentence

Count 1

• Armed Robbery
  • 20 years suspend all but 8 years

Count 6

• Armed Robbery
  • 10 years with all suspended
  • Concurrent to Count 1

5 years of supervised probation

As the country navigates peak respiratory infection season, the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) reminds county residents of local resources to help with preventing and treating illness. Common respiratory infections this season include influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pertussis (whooping cough). Symptoms can include sore throat, cough, headache, stuffy nose, and fever.

SMCHD encourages community members to prevent or minimize the spread of illness by staying up-to-date with vaccines and utilizing testing resources when needed.

Stay up-to-date with vaccines
SMCHD encourages annual flu vaccines for all persons aged 6 months and older. New updated COVID-19 vaccines have better coverage of currently circulating variants of COVID-19 and are approved for those aged 6 months and older. The RSV vaccine is available for adults 75 and older and for adults 60–74 who are at higher risk of severe illness. Infants under 8 months of age who are born during or entering their first RSV season should receive a dose of RSV monoclonal antibody. Infants aged 8-19 months who are at increased risk for severe RSV should receive a dose before their second RSV season. This includes children who were born prematurely, have chronic lung disease, or have severe immunocompromise. Pregnant people should consult with their healthcare provider to determine if and when the RSV vaccine is appropriate for them to receive. Most adults should get an updated Tdap vaccine every 10 years for tetanus; this includes protection against pertussis and diphtheria.

Many local pharmacies and primary care offices offer vaccines. In addition, SMCHD is offering vaccine clinics for the seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines; these vaccine clinics are for children aged six months to 18 years. No appointments are necessary.

Clinics have been scheduled for the following dates and locations:

• Wednesday, November 6, 2024, from 11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. - Drive-thru clinic at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, located at 21625 Great Mills Rd in Lexington Park
• Tuesday, November 12, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - Walk-in clinic at the Margaret Brent Middle School-Based Health Center, located behind the school building at 29675 Point Lookout Road Mechanicsville
• Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - Walk-in clinic at the Spring Ridge Middle School-Based Health Center, located at 29675 Point Lookout Road in Lexington Park
• Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Walk-in clinic at the Charlotte Hall Library, located at 37600 New Market Rd in Charlotte Hall

Get tested if you have symptoms 
Testing allows community members to predict the days they are most contagious, notify contacts who may have been exposed, and start appropriate treatment to prevent severe illness and the spread of infection. SMCHD offers rapid PCR testing for flu, COVID, and RSV through its Health Hub and two School-Based Health Centers by appointment. Rapid antigen self-test kits for COVID-19 are available from SMCHD locations and the three county libraries while supplies last. Every US household is eligible for four free at-?home COVID-19 tests delivered to the home - sign up at covidtests.gov.

For more information and additional recommendations to prevent or minimize illness, visit:

• COVID-19: smchd.org/covid-19
• Flu: smchd.org/flu
• RSV: cdc.gov/rsv
• Pertussis (whooping cough): cdc.gov/pertussis

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman today joined Lt. Governor Aruna Miller to approve $712 million in funding for projects across Maryland during Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting. Treasurer Dereck Davis did not attend Wednesday’s meeting. Items approved included a $5.4 million assessment by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) after the IRS performed an audit of activities performed by state agencies during the 2020 tax year under the previous administration.

The audit found that the state failed to conduct income withholding and backup withholding for certain employees and vendors, and failed to justify some state employees’ excess contributions to deferred compensation plans, resulting in 13 state agencies having tax liabilities with the IRS for the audit period. As the accountant for the State of Maryland, the Office of the Comptroller worked closely with the IRS and other state agencies to reduce the scope of the assessment and coordinate payment.   ??

“We are working to resolve the underpayment with the IRS that occurred under the previous Administration. Governor Moore, Treasurer Davis, Lieutenant Governor Miller, and I are committed to transparency in government. And so, I wanted to make sure that people understand what this is, where it came from, and how we are handling it."

The Board of Public Works also approved three settlements for the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) totaling $899,000 and a payment of $125,000 to settle a lawsuit against Towson University.  

Upon questioning from Comptroller Lierman, DPSCS Deputy Secretary Joseph Sedtal shared that DPSCS is working to ensure that the agency is retaining key evidence for longer periods of time, improving camera systems, and conducting comprehensive reviews of policies to align them with best practices. Comptroller Lierman emphasized the importance of following through with implementing written policies.

“I think year-to-date, we have over $10.5 million in DCSPS settlements. And that's frankly money that you could have used for other matters that we need. I want to make sure that we are not here three to four years from now,” Comptroller Lierman said. “I want to continue to make sure that we have practice around the policies you have created.”

Comptroller Lierman also scrutinized dining services contracts from University System of Maryland institutions, which were brought before the Board of Public Works retroactively for approval.

Comptroller Lierman questioned representatives from Coppin State University, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Towson University and University of Maryland Eastern Shore about the low minority business enterprise (MBE) goals on contracts ranging from over $31 million to $222 million. Comptroller Lierman pointed to Bowie State University as an example, which had an MBE goal of 25%, while the other universities had goals ranging from 2.5% to 14.73% for their dining services contracts. Maryland’s statewide stated MBE goal is 29%

“I believe it is imperative that the state is receiving the best value possible and that ample opportunities are made available for participation by minority business enterprises. I think these contracts are great example of why the Board of Public Works exists to ensure transparency and accountability about how and where our taxpayer dollars are going,” Comptroller Lierman stated.

In all, the BPW approved 87 items, representing a total State expenditure of $712,720,272.03, including:   

• Grant agreements for six recipients for six projects located in two counties and Baltimore City with a total value of $42,726,550. 
• Four items awarding $21,292,715.63 to prime certified small business primes. 
• Three items awarding $3,144,328.65 to certified minority business enterprise primes. 
• One item awarding $8,126,562.48 to Employment Works Program providers. 
• 14 items awarded with established participation goals for minority business enterprises. 
• Two items awarded with established participation goals for veteran-owned small business enterprises.

Student in possession of THC vaping device at La Plata High School: On October 30 at 12:30 p.m., a staff member at La Plata High School observed a student using a vaping device in the bathroom. The staff member reported the student to the youth engagement advocate (YEA). The YEA spoke with the student, who was cooperative and turned over the vaping device, which field tested positive for THC. The student was charged on a Juvenile Civil Citation and will face disciplinary actions in accordance with the Charles County Public Schools Code of Conduct. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact CPL Duley at 301-609-3282 ext. 0494.

Student in possession of cannabis at Theodore G. Davis Middle School: On October 30 at 12:10 p.m., a staff member at Davis Middle School noticed that a student smelled of cannabis. An administrative search was conducted by the Vice Principal that resulted in the recovery of cannabis. The student was charged on a Juvenile Civil Citation for possession of cannabis and will face disciplinary actions in accordance with the Charles County Public Schools Code of Conduct. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact PFC Sterlin at 301-609-3282 ext. 0658.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners announces county offices will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, for Election Day. In addition:

·         The Appeal Solid Waste Facility, which includes the landfill and transfer station, and all county customer convenience centers will be open with normal hours of operation on Tuesday, Nov. 5. 

·         The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 5.

·         The Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be open Tuesday, Nov. 5, with normal operating hours.

·         Calvert County senior centers will be closed on Tuesday, Nov. 5, and Meals on Wheels will not be delivered. Meal delivery is set to resume on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

·         The Northeast and Southern Community Centers will be open for voting on Tuesday, Nov. 5. The Harriet E. Brown and Mt. Hope Community Centers will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 5.

·         County transportation will be operating fare free, with normal hours and schedules on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

·         Calvert Library locations will be open Tuesday, Nov. 5. Downloadable materials and virtual services are available 24/7 at Calvertlibrary.info/using-the-library/activity/read/.

·         The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 5.  Animal Control Officers will be available for emergencies at 410-535-3491.

·         The Calvert Marine Museum and Museum Store will be open with normal hours on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

·         Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center will be open with normal hours on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

·         Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center will be open with normal hours on Tuesday, Nov. 5.  Kings Landing Pool and Cove Point Pool are closed for the 2024 season.

• All recreation parks including Dunkirk District Park, Ward Farm Recreation & Nature Park, Hallowing Point Park and Cove Point Park will be open with normal fall hours on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

·         Chesapeake Hills Golf Course will be open Tuesday, Nov. 5 with normal hours.

• Kings Landing Park will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Flag Ponds Nature Park and Battle Creek Cypress Swamp will be closed on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Fall hours started in September for Flag Ponds Nature Park and the park is closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. No walk-ins are permitted when the gate is closed.
• Breezy Point Beach & Campground closed on Oct. 31 for the season.

For more information on the 2024 General Election, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Vote or contact the Calvert County Election Board at 410-535-2214. You can also stay updated by following the Calvert County Election Board on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertElectionBoard.

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 (October 30, 2024) – Ashley Nicole Nolan, 28, of Lexington Park, Maryland, was arrested on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, following an 18-count indictment by the Circuit Court charging her with negligent manslaughter and other offenses related to a fatal March car crash in which a juvenile passenger died.

The indictment lists the following charges:

• one charge of negligent manslaughter by auto/boat/other vehicle,
• two counts of negligent homicide as a result of operating an auto/boat while under the influence,
• one count of homicide as a result of negligent operation of a motor vehicle/vessel while impaired by alcohol,
• five counts of life-threatening injury while operating a motor vehicle/boat while under the influence,
• one count life-threatening injury while driving/operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol,
• two counts of causing a life-threatening injury as a result of operating a motor vehicle/boat in a criminally negligent manner,
• one count of driving/attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol,
• one count of driving/attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol per se,
• three counts of driving/attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol while transporting a minor,
• one count of driving/attempting to drive a vehicle while impaired by alcohol.

On March 16, 2024, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office patrol units responded to a single-vehicle crash on Chingville Road in Leonardtown, MD. The preliminary investigation by the SMCSO Collision Reconstruction Unit determined that the vehicle left the road after failing to negotiate a turn, overturning multiple times before striking a tree. Three juvenile occupants were found improperly restrained, with two ejected and transported to trauma centers with life-threatening injuries, while a third was pronounced deceased at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital.

After her arrest, Nolan was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, where she is awaiting a bond hearing.

Original News Release:

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Fatal Accident

LEONARDTOWN, MD (March 16, 2024)—At approximately 1:44 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2024, patrol units from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) were dispatched to a motor vehicle crash near the intersection of Point Lookout Road and Chingville Road in Leonardtown, MD. Units arrived on the scene to find a single 2008 Honda Odyssey upside down on Chingville Road.

The SMCSO Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene, and a preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle, operated by Ashley Nicole Nolan, 27, of Leonardtown, MD, was traveling north on Point Lookout Road when the driver failed to negotiate a turn. The car left the road and overturned several times before striking a tree.

Three juvenile occupants were found not to be correctly restrained; two juveniles were ejected from the vehicle and were transported to area trauma centers with life-threatening injuries. A third juvenile was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital and was later pronounced deceased.

Nolan, the driver, sustained minor injuries and was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital.

Currently, alcohol and speed are considered contributing factors in the crash.

In response to the incident, Sheriff Steve Hall said, “No day should ever begin with news like this. It is both difficult to process and to believe. Based on the preliminary investigative information, decisions were made that have caused the loss of the innocent and marred the lives of families in our communities forever.”

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or any events leading up to it is asked to call Corporal Dale Reppel at Dale.Reppel.stmaryscountymd.gov or 240-496-6694.

Prince Frederick, Md. – Oct. 29, 2024  – The Calvert County Family Network (CCFN) is excited to an announce the redesign of OurCalvert.org, a website for up-to-date information on local resources in Calvert County. Developed by the Calvert County Department of Communications & Media Relations, with grant funding through CCFN and the Governor’s Office for Children, the newly redesigned, mobile-friendly platform provides information on various resources including adult care, housing, legal assistance, transportation and more. The website also features targeted search options for children, families, military veterans, seniors and individuals with disabilities.

OurCalvert.org serves as a one-stop resource for Calvert County residents to explore and connect with resources available to them in the community. Whether it is finding financial assistance or healthcare resources, the platform is built to ensure users can access information quickly and conveniently on any device. Visit the new website at www.OurCalvert.org and follow the Calvert County Community Resources Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CalvertCommunityResources for more information on Calvert County programs.

CCFN is Calvert County’s Local Management Board (LMB). LMBs operate in each Maryland jurisdiction, partnering with local leaders, public and private agencies and businesses to build communities where all children, youth and families can thrive. For more information about the Calvert County Family Network, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CCFN. To contact the Family Network Coordinator, call 410-414-5997.

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.

2024 CLEAN Awardees in the Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center Community Chesapeake Bay Trust - $47,672 Description: The Chesapeake Bay Trust and Constellation will partner together to invest in environmental outcomes in Calvert County, Maryland, primarily through providing resources to community organizations for natural resource protection, restoration, and engagement projects.

Chesapeake Bay Trust: American Chestnut Land - $50,000 Project Title: Re-Envisioning Rural Lands: A Conservation Campaign for Southern Maryland Description: The American Chestnut Land Trust (ACLT), on behalf of the Southern Maryland Conservation Alliance (SMCA), will propose the creation of a conservation campaign for Southern Maryland with the goal of curbing suburban sprawl and increasing land conservation efforts in the region. The conservation campaign will accomplish this goal by providing SMCA members with clear and effective outreach materials to communicate with landowners, community groups, local officials, and other target groups about the economic benefits of conserved land and Southern Maryland’s potential for ecotourism

Chesapeake Bay Trust: Ann’s Circle, Inc. - $23,731 Project Title: Community Planting at Annmarie Garden – The Story of the Understory Description: Ann’s Circle, Inc. will serve as a resource for educating the public about the benefits of regenerative gardening, the use of native plantings to support local ecology, and provide hands-on community service and educational workshops that model and replicate best management practices for home gardens and landscapes.

Chesapeake Bay Trust: Asbury Foundation - $9,475 Project Title: Native Wildflower Meadow Description: The Asbury Foundation will promote nature-based solutions in the community to demonstrate the practice of converting maintained lawns to native meadows in suburban communities. In addition, efforts will be used to make Asbury Solomons Continuing Care Retirement Community a model community in Southern Maryland in stormwater management and environmental stewardship.

Chesapeake Bay Trust: East John Youth Center, Inc. - $19,122 Project Title: Youth Led Conservation Landscaping & Rainwater Harvesting at East John Youth Center Description: The East – John Youth Center will focus on educating youth and the community about their roles in environmental stewardship. The youth center will serve as a space to hold workshops and outreach events that address environmental issues such as stormwater runoff and its impact on the Chesapeake Bay. The East John Youth Center will serve as a hub for community engagement, offering outreach events, workshops, and restoration projects. Key initiatives include installing rain barrels, creating a vegetated buffer, and reforesting areas to enhance biodiversity and reduce runoff. Efforts will culminate in a "Bay Day" will celebrate these efforts, showcasing achievements and promoting sustainable practices. The project aims to increase community knowledge, encourage sustainable behaviors, and improve local environmental quality. 

Chesapeake Conservancy: American Chestnut Land Trust - $10,000 Description: The American Land Trust project funding will serve as a catalyst to establish the Southern Maryland Woodlands National Wildlife Refuge. In partnership with the Southern Maryland Conservation Alliance and US Fish and Wildlife Service, a land protection plan has been identified leading to the first National Wildlife Refuge in Maryland since 1962. For the refuge to be considered “official” the USFWS must acquire its first interest in land, therefore the funding will be applied toward land purchase and conservation of the first parcel in the refuge. Preserving the first piece of land will enable the coalition to officially establish the Southern Maryland Woodlands National Wildlife Refuge, thereby leading the way to future opportunities to recover federally threatened and endangered species and habitat in Southern Maryland.

Maryland Hunters Harvest 125 Black Bears for 2024 Season

Photo by Mitch Adolph, submitted to Maryland DNR Photo Contest.

Maryland hunters harvested 125 black bears during the state’s 21st annual black bear hunt held Oct. 21-26 in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington counties. The 2024 harvest was higher than the previous 5-year average of 104 bears.

The 2024 harvest consisted of 52 male and 73 female bears. Total harvest from each county was 80 from Garrett County, 24 from Allegany County, 11 from Washington County, and 10 from Frederick County. The largest bear had a live weight of 650 pounds and was taken in Frederick County. An additional 16 bears (8 male and 8 female) were harvested between August 15 and October 27 by farmers with agricultural damage permits. 

“Many hunters enjoyed a week of trekking through western Maryland’s mountains pursuing one of the state’s most elusive game species,” Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer said. “The state’s bear hunting season is an essential part of the management strategy to mitigate human-bear conflict throughout the expanding black bear range.”

Despite warm daytime temperatures early in the week, hunters were able to harvest 22 more bears during the 2024 season than during the 2023 season. The daily harvest stayed relatively consistent throughout the weeklong season and many hunters attributed their success to locating hickory or white oak stands where nuts and acorns were abundant. 

2024 Maryland black bear hunt by the numbers:

• 169 pounds was the average weight of bears taken
• 70% of bears were taken on private land
• 4,507 hunters applied for a permit
• 950 permits were awarded

More information about black bear management in Maryland is available on the department’s website. 

Update: Health Department Network Restored

LEONARDTOWN, MD (October 29, 2024) - The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is experiencing technical difficulties with its internet and phone systems. The public health on-call system is still operating for urgent matters such as reporting disease outbreaks. Community members should call 9-1-1 for medical emergencies.

Updates on this issue will be released as they become available.  

Visit smchd.org for more information on SMCHD locations and services.

CDS Violation: 24-79353 On October 14, 2024, Deputy Deinert responded to the parking lot of the TJ Max in Prince Frederick, to assist Sgt. Livingston on a traffic stop. Contact was made with the driver, Sherie Carlotta Datiles, 57 of St. Leonard, whose vehicle registration was suspended. Further investigation revealed Datiles was not able to safely operate a motor vehicle. A vehicle search revealed Suboxone and Lorazepam inside the vehicle without a prescription. Datiles was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, DWI, and other traffic-related charges. 

CDS Violation: 24-79889 On October 16, 2024, Calvert deputies conducted a traffic stop on Western Shores Blvd. at St. Leonard Road in Port Republic, due to an equipment violation (a cracked windshield). During the stop, an open-air sniff of the vehicle was performed, and K9 Rico positively alerted to the odor of narcotics. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed drug paraphernalia, and a search of the driver, Timothy Ward Smith, Jr., 46, of Lusby, led to the discovery of a white rock-like substance (suspected cocaine). Smith disclosed he had a “pipe” on him, leading deputies to locate additional CDS paraphernalia. Smith was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Damaged Property: 24-80865 On October 19, 2024, Deputy Brown responded to the 6000 block of Fir Road in St. Leonard, for the report of property damaged property. The complainant advised the glass window of the victim’s sliding glass door had been shattered. The estimated value of damaged property is $2000.00.

Fleeing and Eluding: 24-80898 On October 19, 2024, Cpl. Bortchevsky was conducting a patrol check at Lyons Creek Shopping Center in Dunkirk and observed a white Ford Transit van driven by Mark Thomas Cummings, 62 of Friendship, who appeared to be recording video of the deputy’s unmarked vehicle. During the interaction, Cummings exhibited signs of intoxication, including slurred speech and red, glassy eyes. After refusing to exit his vehicle for a field sobriety test, Cummings fled the scene. Cummings was observed traveling at a speed of 100 mph. Due to Cummings excessive speed, his vehicle lost control and collided with a tree near the intersection of Sansbury Road and Rt. 260. Based on the various traffic violations, it was determined Cummings was under the influence and unable to safely operate a vehicle. Cummings was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with DWI and Fleeing and Eluding.

Theft: 24-79178 On October 14, 2024, DFC T. Bowen responded to the North Beach Fastop located at 8834 Chesapeake Avenue in North Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown Hispanic male entered the store wearing a black sweatshirt, black shorts, and yellow 3 shoes. The male suspect stole two canned beers and one soda then fled the store. The estimated value of stolen property is $10.00.

Theft: 24-80748 On October 19, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to Walmart located at 150 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for a reported trespassing incident. Sean Edward Brady, 32, of no fixed address, entered the store and loaded various items, including a Scout Crossbow, into a cart. He was then observed leaving the store with the crossbow in hand without paying. When confronted by management, Brady was unable to produce a receipt and left the premises. Brady had been previously trespassed from the property. On October 22, he was located at the Silverwood Park and Ride in Prince Frederick and served a criminal summons for Theft ($100 to under $1500) and Trespassing: Private Property.

Theft: 24-80567 On October 18, 2024, DFC Plant responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for the reported theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect(s) stole multiple Shimano Tiagra Reels and multiple Shimano Talavera Blue Water Deep Drop Rods from the cabin of the victim’s sailboat while on a boat lift at Solomons Yachting Center located at 255 Alexander Lane in Solomons. The estimated value of stolen property is $7,019.88.

Theft: 24-80988 On October 20, 2024, Deputy Claggett responded to the 700 block of E. Mount Harmony Road in Owings, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his Alocasia Odora plant was stolen from his property. The estimated value of stolen property is $200.00.

Traffic Arrest:24-80577 On October 18, 2024, Deputy Deinert responded to the area of S. Solomons Island Road and Oakland Hall Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a four-vehicle collision. Upon arrival, the investigation determined that the driver of the at-fault vehicle had fled the scene. A search of the abandoned vehicle revealed a wallet containing a Maryland ID and a glass pipe commonly used for smoking CDS. The suspect, identified as Brenden Reid Edmunds, 25 of Dunkirk, was later located at the Cliffs Motel in St. Leonard. Edmunds was taken into custody and charged 4 with Failure to Remain at the Scene of an Accident and Driving without a License.

“We haven’t seen this amount of funds flowing through Indian Head in over a decade,” NSWC IHD Contracts Department Head Renee Brown said. “We positioned ourselves for success by developing an agile workforce, working closely with industry and establishing strategic partnerships and contracts that meet mission needs.”
 

During that time, NSWC IHD more than tripled the amount of funds going to Maryland businesses, with Charles County-based businesses directly receiving over $95 million.
 

“Supporting our warfighters means ensuring we have an industrial base ready to support their needs,” Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks said. “Sites like NSWC Indian Head are leading the way in public, private partnerships, research and manufacturing that will help to ensure our service members are prepared for any contingency.”
 

There are hundreds of construction and infrastructure projects underway at NSWC IHD to increase capacity of the defense industrial base with hundreds of additional projects to come.
 

In addition to serving as a piece of the Department of Defense’s national defense strategy, NSWC IHD plays a vital role in its regional, state and local economies. NSWC IHD provided more than $353 million in Maryland salaries during FY24 and remains one of the largest employers in Charles County.
 

More than 130 businesses operating in technology, research and development and energetics are based out of the seven-and-a-half square mile area from Indian Head to Bryans Road—called the Western Charles County Technology Corridor.
 

“This command has been relying on Charles County and the surrounding communities to support the warfighter for over 130 years,” NSWC IHD Technical Director Ashley Johnson said. “As we continue to modernize, we’re just going to get bigger. There are opportunities for our local partners and we are working to make it easier for those who want to do business with us to support our mission. We want to foster growth in the communities that have supported us for more than a century.”
 

As the leaders in the energetics community, NSWC IHD is positioned to achieve sustained investments beyond current demand and ECMP, which will continue providing opportunities for traditional defense contractors, nontraditional partners—including small businesses, non-profit organizations, federally funded research and development centers, universities and colleges, other government agencies, foreign entities—and the civilian workforce.
 

“You can do things here that you can’t do anywhere else in the world,” Maryland Rep. Steny Hoyer said. “The people who work at this place and run this place are an extraordinary asset for America.”

NSWC IHD — a field activity of the Naval Sea Systems Command and part of the Navy’s Science and Engineering Establishment — is the leader in ordnance, energetics, and EOD solutions. The Division focuses on energetics research, development, testing, evaluation, in-service support, manufacturing and disposal; and provides warfighters solutions to detect, locate, access, identify, render safe, recover, exploit and dispose of explosive ordnance threats.

Potassium Iodide (KI) tablets will be offered to eligible community members on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at a drive-thru event at the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) routinely distributes KI tablets to county residents living or working within the 10-mile emergency protection zone (EPZ) of the Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center. These distribution events are for general community preparedness.

Registration is required for pick-up of KI tablets at this event. For more information or to register, please visit smchd.org/ki or call (301) 475-4330. Please do not contact the Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center for KI tablets. Community members may also bring their expired KI tablets for collection and safe disposal to the event. Free hand-crank solar charging emergency radios will also be provided to community members who receive KI tablets as supply allows.

Who is Eligible?

St. Mary’s County residents living or working within the 10-mile EPZ (zones 6 & 7). This area includes the following zip codes:

• 20659 – Mechanicsville
• 20636 – Hollywood
• 20619 – California
• 20653 – Lexington Park

On October 28, 2024, at approximately 7:12 a.m., Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau deputies responded to a report of a serious motor vehicle collision involving entrapment in the 6600 block of Hallowing Point Road (Rt. 231) in Prince Frederick. Upon arrival, deputies confirmed that one driver was deceased and immediately requested the response of the Crash Reconstruction Unit to investigate.

A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2022 Hyundai Kona, operated by Gina Taylor Johnson, 51 of Mechanicsville, was traveling east on Hallowing Point Road, passing Hallowing Lane. Behind the Kona was a 2019 Ford Fusion, operated by Stacey Breanna Herbert, 19 of Lexington Park, also heading eastbound. Meanwhile, a 2020 Nissan Rogue, driven by Carla Jean Poole, 52 of Hughesville, was traveling westbound, passing Seagull Beach Road.

According to witness statements, the Nissan Rogue crossed the double yellow center line, resulting in a head-on collision with the Hyundai Kona. The impact then caused the Nissan Rogue to collide with Ms. Herbert’s Ford Fusion.

The driver of the Hyundai, Gina Johnson, was pronounced deceased at the scene by medical personnel. Carla Poole, the driver of the Nissan, was airlifted via Maryland State Police Trooper 2 to a local trauma center, where she remains in critical condition. Stacey Herbert, along with a juvenile passenger, was transported by ground to CalvertHealth Medical Center.

At this time, it remains unclear why the Nissan Rogue crossed the double yellow line. M/DFC Hardesty of the Crash Reconstruction Team is actively investigating this incident. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or events leading up to it is asked to contact him at 410-535-2800 or via email at Jeffrey.Hardesty@CalvertCountymd.gov.

Baltimore, Maryland –Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Bijon A. Mostoufi and Joseph Wenner will lead the efforts of his Office that support the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024 general election.  AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the District of Maryland, and in that capacity, they are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints involving voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, all in consultation with the Justice Department in Washington, D.C.
 

The Department of Justice plays an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud, wherever they may occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
 

Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they must be able to vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English). 
 

U.S. Attorney Barron stated: “Voting is a hallmark of our democracy and an essential right in our State and in this country.  My Office is committed to protecting that right and to pursue and prosecute those who discourage or interfere with the exercise of it.  I am proud to lead the District of Maryland’s efforts to support the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program.”  In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner will be on duty in Maryland while the polls are open.  AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner can be reached at 301-344-4433. Any allegation of election fraud or voting rights violations will be reviewed in consultation with state and federal authorities where appropriate, and we will pursue any case that warrants prosecution.”         
 

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 410-265-8080.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .

Protecting the right to vote, prosecuting election fraud, and securing our elections are all essential to maintaining the confidence of all Americans in our democratic system of government. The department encourages anyone with information regarding concerns in these subject areas to contact the appropriate authorities.
 

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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Student assaulted by two students at Milton Somers Middle School: On October 28 at 11:04 a.m., a student at Milton Somers Middle School was attacked by two students. No one was injured during the brief altercation, which was quickly stopped by school administrators and the school resource officer. In accordance with Maryland law, the involved students cannot be criminally charged due to their ages. The students will face disciplinary actions in accordance with the Charles County Public Schools Code of Conduct, and the school resource officer notified the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services for services as needed. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact CPL Upshaw at 301-609-3282 ext. 0436.

Student in possession of cannabis at Thomas Stone High School: On October 28 at 10:50 a.m., a school staff member at Thomas Stone High School located a student smoking in the bathroom and informed a school administrator. An administrative search was conducted and resulted in the location of a cannabis cigar and a small plastic bag with traces of cannabis. The cannabis was field tested. The result was positive. The student was charged on a Juvenile Civil Citation with possession of cannabis and released to a parent. The student will face disciplinary actions in accordance with the Charles County Public Schools Code of Conduct. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact PFC Ondrish at 301-609-3282 ext. 0636.

Greenbelt, Maryland – After a 9-day trial, a federal jury returned verdicts against Thaddeus Lamont Wills, age 51, and Keionta Shawn Hagens, age 44, both of Waldorf, Maryland, of interference with interstate commerce by robbery, conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery, using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, carjacking, and of murder. 

The conviction was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County Police Department; Chief Troy D. Berry of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office; and Chief Peter Newsham of the Prince William County, Virginia Police Department.

            Evidence presented at trial established that on November 12, 2020, conspirators, including Wills and Hagens, while armed with firearms, robbed an employee of Business-1 of cash and merchandise, and a customer of Business-1 of personal property.  To facilitate their escape from Business-1, conspirators, including Wills and Hagens, forcefully, and using firearms, took a 2016 Dodge Ram pickup truck from the victim customer.

            Trial evidence further established that on or about November 17, 2020, conspirators, including Wills and Hagens used a stolen 2014 Ford F-150 pickup truck to drive to Business-2 for the purpose of robbing Business-2.  Wills and Hagens thereafter, while using at least one firearm, robbed an employee of Business-2 of cash and merchandise as well as a customer of personal property.  During the robbery, Wills and Hagens zip tied the hands of the employee.  In addition, Between November 12, 2020, and November 26, 2020, conspirators, including Wills and Hagens, stored and concealed the stolen Dodge Ram pickup and stolen Ford F-150 pickup in the area of Brandywine, Maryland. 

            On January 6, 2021, in Waldorf, Maryland, conspirators, including Wills, while armed with firearms, forcefully took a 2008 Honda Pilot Sport Utility Vehicle from a victim.  On January 6 and January 7, 2021, conspirators, including Wills, used the 2008 Honda Pilot to travel from Maryland into Virginia.  Then, on January 7, 2021, in Woodbridge, Virginia, conspirators, including Wills, while armed with firearms, robbed customers, agents and employees of Business-3 of cash, merchandise, and personal property.  After driving the 2008 Honda Pilot back from Virginia to Maryland on January 7, 2021, Wills and a co-conspirator burned the vehicle in the area of Brandywine, Maryland.

            Finally, on January 18, 2021, conspirators, including Wills and Hagens, robbed Victim-8, the owner of Business-4, of merchandise while using at least two firearms, and shot and killed the business owner during the robbery.  In order to escape after the robbery and murder of the victim, Wills used a firearm to forcefully take a 2019 Lexus RX350 Sport Utility Vehicle from a separate victim.

Wills faces a maximum sentence of life in federal prison for the murder of victim-8 during the robbery on January 18, 2021; a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years and a maximum sentence of life for each count of using, carrying, brandishing a firearm during the robbery on November 17, 2020, the carjacking on January 6, 2021, and the carjacking on January 18, 2021.  Wills faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison each for conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery and interference with interstate commerce by robbery related to the robberies on November 17, 2020 and January 18, 2021, as well as a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison for each carjacking.

Hagens faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum sentence of life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during the robbery on November 17, 2020.  Hagens also faces a maximum sentence of 20 years each for conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery and interference with interstate commerce by robbery for the robberies on November 17, 2020 and January 18, 2021.

U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang has scheduled sentencing for Wills on February 7, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. and for Hagens on February 14, 2024 at 9:30 am.  Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

U.S. Attorney Barron commended the FBI, PGPD, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, and the Prince William County, Virginia Police Department for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Moomau and Patrick D. Kibbe, who are prosecuting the federal case.

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation advises citizens the Southern Community Center will be temporarily closed Saturday, Nov. 9 through Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, for annual floor maintenance. The community center will be open Friday, Nov. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Normal hours of operation will resume Tuesday, Nov. 12.

 The Southern Community Center is located at 20 Appeal Lane in Lusby.

For updates on Parks & Recreation services, park availability, field closures and more visit Parks & Recreation at www.Facebook.com/CalvertCountyParks and follow @CalvertCountyParksandRec on Instagram.

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.

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Washington – The Justice Department announced today that Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine Private Limited, the Singaporean corporations that owned and operated the Motor Vessel DALI, have agreed to pay $101,980,000 to resolve a civil claim brought by the United States for costs borne in responding to the catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.  

The settlement resolves the United States’ claims for civil damages for $103,078,056 under the Rivers and Harbors Act, Oil Pollution Act, and general maritime law. The settlement monies will go to the U.S. Treasury and to the budgets of several federal agencies directly affected by the allision or involved in the response.

“Nearly seven months after one of the worst transportation disasters in recent memory, which claimed six lives and caused untold damage, we have reached an important milestone with today’s settlement,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “Thanks to the hard work of the Justice Department attorneys since day one of this disaster, we were able to secure this early settlement of our claim, just over one month into litigation. This resolution ensures that the costs of the federal government’s cleanup efforts in the Fort McHenry Channel are borne by Grace Ocean and Synergy and not the American taxpayer.”

“This is a tremendous outcome that fully compensates the United States for the costs it incurred in responding to this disaster and holds the owner and operator of the DALI accountable,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The prompt resolution of this matter also avoids the expense associated with litigating this complex case for potentially years.”

In the early morning hours of March 26, the Motor Vessel DALI left the Port of Baltimore bound for Sri Lanka. While navigating through the Fort McHenry Channel, the vessel lost power, regained power, and then lost power again before striking the bridge. The bridge collapsed and plunged into the water below, tragically killing six people. In addition to this heartbreaking loss of life, the wreck of the DALI and the remains of the bridge were left to obstruct the navigable channel, bringing all shipping into and out of the Port of Baltimore to a standstill. The loss of the bridge also severed a critical highway in the transportation infrastructure and blocked a key artery for local commuters.

The United States led the response efforts of dozens of federal, state, and local agencies to remove about 50,000 tons of steel, concrete, and asphalt from the channel and from the DALI itself. While removal operations were underway, the United States set up temporary channels to start relieving the bottleneck at the port and mitigate some of the economic devastation caused by the DALI. The Fort McHenry Channel was cleared by June 10, and the Port of Baltimore was once again open for commercial navigation.
 

On Sept. 18, the Justice Department filed a civil lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, seeking over $100 million in damages from Grace Ocean and Synergy. The Department’s claim was part of a legal action that the vessel companies filed shortly after the tragedy, in which they seek exoneration or limitation of their liability to approximately $43.7 million. Today’s settlement is in addition to $97,294 recently paid by Grace Ocean to the Coast Guard National Pollution Fund Center for costs incurred to abate the threat of oil pollution arising from the incident.  

The settlement does not include any damages for the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The State of Maryland built, owned, maintained, and operated the bridge, and attorneys on the state’s behalf filed their own claim for those damages. Pursuant to the governing regulation, funds recovered by the State of Maryland for reconstruction of the bridge will be used to reduce the project costs paid for in the first instance by federal tax dollars.

The resolution of the civil matter was handled by attorneys from the Civil Division’s Aviation, Space & Admiralty Litigation Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, Baltimore Division.

On Tuesday, Oct. 22, the Commissioners held a work session to discuss Docket 90 Amendment PDZA#24-90(23) Villages of Wooded Glen & Piney Reach Master Plan. This followed a commissioner public hearing that was held on Sept. 17, with the comment period held open until Oct. 2. The proposed amendments included moving the middle school site to Piney Reach Neighborhood #2, near Piney Church Road. Another proposed change included allowing homes to be built in the Village of Piney Reach Neighborhood #3 before 85% of construction in the Village of Wooded Glen was finished and modifying the buffer remediation plan. Consistent with the Planning Commission’s recommendation, the Commissioners voted 3-1 to approve the middle school site move and adjustments to the buffer plan, but they did not include the 85% rule change.

Briefings

·       Jason Groth, Acting Director, Heather Kelly, Planning Supervisor, and Melissa Hively, Planner II, Department of Planning and Growth Management, held a briefing on Proposed Bill 2024-15: Amendments to the Water and Sewer Ordinance. The bill would revise supplemental policies regarding the Mattawoman Sewer and Waldorf Water Systems. The amendments would reflect the proposed water and sewer systems in documentation related to supplemental service areas. Commissioners introduced the bill and scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024 at 6 p.m.

·       Planning and Growth Management staff also held a briefing on the Fall 2024 Water and Sewer Category Amendment Cycle. Requests for amendments are heard on a semi-annual cycle for requested service category amendments as outlined in the Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan. The Department of Planning and Growth Management received four applicant-driven requests during this cycle. Commissioners voted to schedule a public hearing for Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024 at 6 p.m.

·       Kirby Blass, Planner III, and Kelly Palmer, Planner III, Department of Planning and Growth Management, briefed commissioners on Proposed Bill 2024-16: Zoning Text Amendment ZTA 24-182, Required Widths of Aisles and Driveways & Parking Area Surfaces for Agritourism Projects.  The amendment would clarify width of aisle, driveway, and parking area surface requirements for Agritourism projects.  Commissioners voted to introduce the bill and schedule a public hearing for Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024 at 6 p.m.

·       Mark Anderson, Vice President of Land Development; Matthew Wineman, Division President, Lennar; Andrew Vail, Associate Vice President, Whitman, Requardt & Associates; and Rick Barnas, President, Barnas Engineering, provided an annual update on Docket 90 in the St. Charles Community.

·       Jenifer Ellin, Acting Deputy County Administrator, introduced a briefing on the Charles County Government's federal lobbying agenda led by Joseph Green of G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc.

·       Megan Donnick, Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, David Johnson, Vice President of Bolton, and Nick Webb, Associate Consultant, and Alexis Blackwell, Director of Human Resources, discussed with Commissioners about Healthcare options for Charles County Employees. Charles County Government has a three-year contract with CareFirst, which was awarded in July 2022 for three years with four optional one-year extensions. As a part of the discussion, presenters proposed beginning the request for proposal process in the summer/fall of 2026, with the winning proposal to be awarded a contract to begin in the July 1, 2027 plan year.

·       Jacob Dyer, Acting Director of the Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, briefed commissioners on the Investment and Actuarial Reviews for the Charles County Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB), Sheriff’s Office Retirement Plan (SORP), and the Charles County Pension Plan.

Approval Items

·       Letters of Support and Commitment for Charles County Resiliency Authority Grant Applications for phase 2 of the Concrete to Green Stormwater Pocket Park Project at Elite Gymnastics, phase 2 of the East Waldorf Residential Stormwater Drainage Improvement Project, and Nature-Based Climate Solutions on Bensville Park, Robert D. Stethem Memorial Sports Complex.

·       A request for additional holiday leave for county employees during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. County employees now have full-day closures on Nov. 27, Dec. 26, and Jan. 2, 2025 and a half-day off on Dec. 24.

·       A request for property improvements to the Clifford House.

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1 (Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258).

NAS Pax River Gate 1 outbound lanes will be closed to traffic Friday, Oct. 25 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for scheduled maintenance. Gate 3 will open for outbound traffic at 2 p.m. Drivers must use Gates 2 or 3 for outbound traffic during Gate 1's maintenance.

Pax River Gate 1 inbound lanes will remain open during the maintenance.

St. Mary’s County residents can now easily check the material of their water service lines by visiting https://www.metcom.org/leadandcopperrule which provides the results of the St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission’s (MetCom) water service line inventory. This inventory took place after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated guidelines for lead and copper monitoring by public drinking water providers. MetCom has evaluated 16,930 water service lines throughout the County to comply with new federal rules aimed at decreasing lead exposure in the U.S. None of the water lines examined were found to be made of lead. An interactive water line inventory map is also available on the MetCom website.

The inventory identifies all service lines in our 28 water systems as either lead, galvanized requiring replacement (GRR), non-lead, or unknown lead status. MetCom has completed its inventory by both examining relevant building records and conducting visual inspections.

· About 16,423 of the water services to homes and businesses in the County were built after a lead ban on plumbing materials went into effect in Maryland in May 1972 which are classified by the EPA as “Non-Lead”.

· Of the approximately 507 remaining publicly and privately-owned water service lines that were built before the lead ban on plumbing materials went into effect, MetCom performed records reviews or test pitting / visual inspections. Of those inspected, none were found to have lead services lines.

· Note: The 290 miles of publicly-owned water supply lines are not constructed of lead materials, but there may be some small lead pigtail and gooseneck connections still in the system, and while these are not considered by the EPA as lead service lines for this inventory, we will replace them if any are found / identified as a part of our long-term commitment to remove lead completely from our water system.

As required by the EPA, MetCom conducted its latest rounds of lead and copper testing of tap water in 2023. All samples collected from randomly selected addresses throughout the County showed lead levels well below the EPA Action Level for lead of 15 parts per billion. Water quality tests are reported annually on MetCom’s website under Consumer Confidence Reports at https://www.metcom.org/. For more information about the Lead Service Line Inventory, please visit https://www.metcom.org/leadandcopperrule 

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) opened its second Early Learning Center at the start of the school year as part of the school system’s expansion of prekindergarten. The Early Learning Center, Waldorf serves 153 three- and four-year-old students accepted into the CCPS prekindergarten program. Known as ELC, Waldorf, it is located at 3155 John Hanson Drive in Waldorf taking over the former CCPS Transition School.

ELC, Waldorf held a ribbon cutting ceremony recently to celebrate the opening of the building. Center Coordinator Ashley Valenzuela-Carrington and ELC, Waldorf staff welcomed CCPS staff, Superintendent of Schools Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D., and members of the Board of Education of Charles County to the event.

Valenzuela-Carrington opened the ceremony with a thank you to everyone who attended the event, contributed to the opening of the center and to staff who help the building run smoothly. “I want people to see the great things we are doing here at the ELC, Waldorf,” she said. “Our students are three- and four-year-olds, but many of them are doing an outstanding job learning the routines of being in school. This is largely due to our amazing staff.”

Navarro opened by thanking everyone for their hard work in renovating the building to fit the needs of the county’s youngest learners. “We discussed how we would utilize the building long term, and this is where the idea of ELC, Waldorf being housed here started,” she said. She mentioned how the former full-sized items and appliances in the building were replaced with smaller equipment to meet the basic needs of each student at the center.

Board Chairperson Yonelle Moore Lee, Esq., mentioned how she enjoys visiting the prekindergarten program because of the hope that exudes from each student. “I love the young children because the hope that they have is infectious and you can’t help but be joyous around them. You can’t help but really see that our future will be bright,” she said.

During the ribbon cutting portion of the ceremony, Josiah Wade, a student at ELC, Waldorf held the plastic, oversized scissors as staff and guests gathered around for the moment. Wade was the first student who registered to attend the ELC, Waldorf when it first opened. After the ribbon cutting, Valenzuela-Carrington guided the guests on a tour of the building.

Throughout the tour, Board members highlighted the importance of education during this early stage for the students in the program. “What they are taught now will shape their voice and worldview as they get older,” Board Member Dottery Butler-Washington said.

“I have two goals for our students: I want them to know that they are loved here and that they leave here demonstrating elementary school readiness with both social and academic foundation skills,” Valenzuela-Carrington said. “It is also very important to me that families feel connected to the ELC, Waldorf. Building relationships with our students and families has been a top priority of mine. Along with that, it's important to me that my staff feels supported. The work we do is hard, but I wouldn't want to do it without any of them. The teamwork amongst our staff is incredible to see.”

ELC, Waldorf follows as the second CCPS Early Learning Center after the ELC, La Plata, housed on the La Plata campus of the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) opened last school year. The center in Waldorf officially opened on the first day of school for prekindergarten students for the 2024-2025 school year, Tuesday, Sept. 3. 

The opening of ELC, Waldorf is part of the school system’s expansion of early learning opportunities, as well as to fulfill the early childhood education requirement found in the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation.

The prekindergarten program at the center is the same as those held in CCPS elementary schools, with students completing the program and advancing to kindergarten at their zoned school.

Students attending ELC, Waldorf are zoned for the location through their home address. Some classrooms are inclusion classrooms with preschool-aged special needs students as well as typically developing peers. The CCPS prekindergarten curriculum will be followed and CCPS provides bus transportation and meals for all students.

To learn more about the CCPS prekindergarten program, visit the school system website at https://www.ccboe.com/departments/prekindergarten.

As Halloween creeps closer, fire safety hazards lurk among many of the holiday's festivities and celebrations. According to the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), between 2018 and 2022, an annual average of 835 home structure fires began with decorations, resulting in three deaths, 30 injuries, and $14 million in direct property damage. Nearly half (47 percent) of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source; approximately one-third (32 percent) started with candles.

With these and associated safety risks in mind, NFPA is encouraging everyone to take simple precautions that can help ensure a fire-safe holiday.

“Decorating with jack-o-lanterns and other seasonal items, costume parties, and trick-or-treating all present potential fire hazards,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “But that’s no reason to let Halloween spook people. With a little added awareness and caution, the vast majority of these risks can be prevented.”

NFPA offers these tips and guidelines for enjoying a festive Halloween: 

• Decorations: Many common decorations like cornstalks, crepe paper, and dried flowers are very flammable. Keep these and similar decorations far away from any open flames or heat sources, like candles, heaters, and light bulbs.

• Candles: Using candles as decoration can be risky if not done correctly. Keep them in a well- attended area out of the path of potential trick-or-treaters. Remind children of the dangers of open flames, and make sure they are always supervised when candles are lit. Always extinguish candles before leaving an area.

• Jack-o-lanterns: Glow sticks or electric candles are the safest choice when it comes to lighting up your jack-o-lantern, but if you choose to use a real candle, do so with extreme caution. Light a candle inside a jack-o-lantern using long fireplace matches or a utility lighter and keep it away from other decorations.

• Costumes: Avoid fabric that billows or trails behind you, as these can easily ignite. If you are making your own costume, avoid loosely woven fabrics like linen and cotton, which can be very flammable.

• Visibility: Give children flashlights or glowsticks for lighting, these can even be incorporated into the costume. If your child has a mask, ensure the eye holes are large enough for them to see clearly.

• Smoke Alarms: This is a great time to make sure your smoke alarms are in working order.

• Exits: Exits are NOT an appropriate place for decorations. When decorating, ensure that nothing is blocking escape routes, including doors and windows.

Visit the NFPA Halloween safety page for more safety tips and resources. Get NFPA’s Halloween Fire Safety Bundle for frightfully fun activities for kids and families. Visit sparky.org for kid-friendly fun.

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

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County are seeking applications from residents who are interested in serving on a local Board, Committee, or Commission. Volunteering to serve as a member of these groups is an excellent way to meet new people while contributing to the successful operation and development of our community!

Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/boards for board descriptions and to complete the online application. All applications must include a resume and be submitted by November 12, 2024.

Current vacancies:

• Agriculture, Seafood & Forestry Board
• Animal Control Advisory Board
• Board of Trustees Museum Division
• Commission for People with Disabilities
• Commission for Women
• Commission on Aging
• Commission on the Environment
• Economic Development Commission
• Ethics Commission
• Housing Authority Board
• Human Relations Commission
• Recreation & Parks Board
• Social Services Board
• Transportation Advisory Committee
• Wicomico Shores Golf Course Advisory Board

Please note the following, additional vacancies have special requirements:

• Animal Control Advisory Board – Must be a veterinarian.
• Board of Appeals – Business and/or planning experience preferred.
• Electrical Examiners Board – Must be a master electrician.
• Historic Preservation Commission – Discipline of architecture, architectural history, history or archaeology.
• Length of Service Award Program – Must have a financial background.
• Metropolitan Commission Board – Must reside in the 7th district.
• Planning Commission - Business and/or planning experience preferred. 
• Retiree Benefit Trust of St. Mary’s County – Must have a financial background.

Interested residents can complete the online application at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/boards or call Diane Gleissner at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1707 for more information.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business day with a joint meeting at the St. Mary’s County Board of Education.

After the joint meeting, the Commissioners reconvened for their regular business meeting, starting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The CSMC then presented proclamations in recognition of Economic Development Week, Red Ribbon Week, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Disability Employment Awareness Month.

The CSMC then joined the Commission for People with Disabilities in recognizing Latisha Queen with the 2024 Care Partner Award and Allison Guy with the 2024 Innovative Program Award.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved a loan request from the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department to assist in the purchase of a new pumper/tanker.
• Approved the update to the American Rescue Plan.

The Commissioners wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room (1^st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown). The CSMC will also host a Public Forum that evening at 6:30 p.m. CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

Maryland’s SkillsUSA student delegation brought home 16 medals from the 60th Annual National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC), held this summer in Atlanta, Georgia. A team of the state’s most talented Career and Technical Education (CTE) students showcased their skills in 95 CTE competitions. Demonstrating exemplary CTE training and preparation, Maryland students challenged 6,600 other student champions from all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Maryland students competing in Photography and Television (Video) Production are officially among the best in the nation, returning with gold medals. Silver medals were awarded to students competing in Dental Assisting, Graphic Communications, Mobile Robotics Technology, Robotics and Automation Technology and Technical Drafting, and bronze medals were awarded to students competing in Collision Repair Technology, Emergency Medical Technician, Nurse Assisting and Robotics-Urban Search and Rescue. In addition to outstanding student competition performances, the Baking and Pastry Arts program at the Center of Applied Technology North, Anne Arundel County, was among twenty-four chapters/programs to receive the SkillsUSA Chapter Excellence Program, Models of Excellence (MOE) Award, surpassing over one thousand participating schools from across the country. MOE status recognizes the exceptional integration of personal, workplace and technical skills in SkillsUSA chapter activities. SkillsUSA Maryland, a premier Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO), has a statewide membership of 5,100 high school students. Members have consistently demonstrated their expertise and professionalism while participating throughout the year in a variety of leadership and competitive conferences and events. The following students placed in the top ten in the national competition:

SkillsUSA Maryland National Top Ten – 2024 National Leadership and Skills Conference Gold Medal – Photography Morgan Robbins: Carroll County Career and Technology Center – Carroll County Gold Medal – Television (Video) Production Payson Clausen, Carter Wright: Carroll County Career and Technology Cetner – Carroll County Silver Medal – Dental Assisting Lindsey Hughes: Center of Applied Technology South – Anne Arundel County Silver Medal – Graphic Communications James Hovaker: Center of Applied Technology North – Anne Arundel County Silver Medal – Mobile Robotics Technology (MS) Cecilla Diehlmann, Catrina Donmoyer: Worcester Technical High School – Worcester County Silver Medal – Robotics and Automation Technology Vernon Price III, Dylan Ruppert: Dorchester Career and Technology Center – Dorchester County

Silver Medal – Technical Drafting
Michael Umana: Frederick Career and Technology Center – Frederick County
Bronze Medal – Collision Repair Technology
Benjamin Kimbark: Frederick Career and Technology Center – Frederick County
Bronze Medal – Emergency Medical Technician
Morgen Sanders, Haileigh Taylor: Boyd J. Michael III Technical High School – Washington County
Bronze Medal – Nurse Assisting
Isabella Rogers: Frederick Career and Technology Center – Frederick County
Bronze Medal – Robotics: Urban Search and Rescue (MS)
Nidhish Gupta, Asher Nichols: Worcester Technical High School – Worcester County
4th Place – American Spirit
Maddison French, Julia Knerr, Catherine Miller: Worcester Technical High School – Worcester
County
4th Place – Basic Health Care Skills
Dianna Solis: Frederick Career and Technology Center – Frederick County
4th Place – Community Action Project
Diana Jimenez, Ayame Kendall: Boyd J. Michael III Technical High School – Washington County
4th Place – Digital Cinema Production
JoyKim Huynh, Lane Miller: Carroll County Career and Technology Center – Carroll County
5th Place – Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair
Keith Savage: Worcester Technical High School – Worcester County

5th Place – Baking and Pastry Arts Erin Barnhart: Center of Applied Technology North – Anne Arundel County 5th Place – Career Pathways – Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Trilby Moore, Amir Taylor, Denise Walker: Center of Applied Technology North – Anne Arundel County 5th Place – Culinary Arts Bridget Long: Center of Applied Technology South – Anne Arundel County 5th Place – Diesel Equipment Technology Wyatt Frederick: Carroll County Career and Technology Center – Carroll County 5th Place – Nail Care Isia-Gaia Valiphanh: Thomas Edison High School of Technology – Montgomery County 5th Place – Outstanding Chapter Sheala Jefferson, Alyssa Lane, Amy Ontko: Calvert Career and Technology Academy – Calvert County 5th Place – Sheet Metal Andrew Winkler: Frederick Career and Technology Center – Frederick County 5th Place – Technical Computer Applications Jessica Kramer: Center of Applied Technology South – Anne Arundel County 6th Place – 3D Visualization and Animation Abigail Cronkright, Sylvia Suckow: Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center – St. Mary’s County 6th Place – Advertising Design Skyler Nottingham: Worcester Technical High School – Worcester County

6th Place – Career Pathways – Human Services Lillian Jones, Kyleigh Powell, Alayna Spagnola: Worcester Technical High School – Worcester County 6th Place – Firefighting Cody Davenport: Calvert Career and Technology Academy – Calvert County 6th Place – Internetworking Alexander Copeland: Center of Applied Technology South – Anne Arundel County 6th Place – Principles of Engineering-Technology Asher Gleeson: Old Mill High School – Anne Arundel County 7th Place – Cyber Security Alexander Merryman, Eric Nielsen: Center of Applied Technology South – Anne Arundel County 7th Place – Electrical Construction Wiring Leonardo Fernandez: Thomas Edison High School of Technology – Montgomery County 7th Place – Mobile Electronics Installation Nicholas Sanchez: Somerset County Technical High School – Somerset County

7th Place – Pin Design Hayley Boore: Carroll County Career and Technology Center – Carroll County 7th Place – Screen Printing Technology Dantae McGowan : Calvert Career and Technology Academy – Calvert County 8th Place – Barbering Triniti Carraway: Boyd J. Michael III Technical High School – Washington County 8th Place – Career Pathways = Health Science Sarah Tadesse, Bhavi Vaghani, Blen Worede: Thomas Edison High School of Technology – Montgomery County 8th Place – Commercial sUAS Drone Xzavier Amaya Paniagua: Boyd J. Michael III Technical High School – Washington County 8th Place – Computer Programming Christofer Villarreal: Worcester Technical High School – Worcester County 8th Place – Health Occupations Professional Portfolio Amanda Rivera Colon: Frederick Career and Technology Center – Frederick County 8th Place – Medical Math Mandy Chau: Worcester Technical High School – Worcester County 8th Place – Power Equipment Technology Thomas Marshall: Calvert Career and Technology Academy – Calvert County 8th Place - Promotional Bulletin Board Rylee Lease, Sarah Rennolds, Nisachon Sillence: Carroll County Career and Technology Center – Carroll County

8th Place – Restaurant Service Isabel Izquieta-Cochamanidis: Center of Applied Technology North – Anne Arundel County 8th Place – T-Shirt Design Devin Cammack: Thomas Edison High School of Technology – Montgomery County 8th Place – Welding Sculpture Payten Snyder: Allegany Center for Career and Technical Education – Allegany County 9th Place – Chapter Display Joshua Onspaugh, Ariel Tembi, Tyler Wilson: Frederick Career and Technology Center – Frederick County 9th Place – Collision Damage Appraisal Ryan Tucker: Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center – St. Mary’s County 9th Place – Criminal Justice Brooke Sims: Carroll County Career and Technology Center – Carroll County 10th Place – Cosmetology Caitlyn Wildisan: Carroll County Career and Technology Center – Carroll County 10th Place – Information Technology Services Reece Clegg: Seneca Valley High School – Montgomery County 10th Place – Telecommunications Cabling Connor Ferrall: Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center – St. Mary’s County

For more information about SkillsUSA, please contact Charles Wallace, Coordinator of CTE Student
Organizations, Office of College and Career Pathways, Maryland State Department of Education at
charles.wallace@maryland.gov or 410-767-8872.
Additional information can be found on the official SkillsUSA Maryland website. 

Deputy State Fire Marshals have charged Cesar Augusto Gonzalez-Lopez, 30, after he allegedly attempted to start a fire on the outside of Lexington Park home Sunday afternoon. 

Just before 12:00 p.m., deputies from the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office responded to the 46400 block of Sue Drive, where a dispute had occurred the previous evening between the homeowner and Gonzalez-Lopez over stolen property. Witnesses reported to deputies that Gonzalez-Lopez had entered a shed behind the home and emerged with a container. He then began spreading an oily substance on the exterior of the home. Witnesses also reported that Gonzalez Lopez had broken into the residence, causing damage to the home. 

Before investigators arrived, deputies detained Gonzalez Lopez at his brother's residence. Deputy State Fire Marshals subsequently conducted interviews and examined the Sue Drive property. During the investigation, deputies confirmed that several witnesses had seen Gonzalez Lopez pouring the oily substance and asking for a lighter, indicating his intent to ignite the residence and subsequently leaving the property. 

Gonzalez Lopez was charged with first and third-degree burglary, malicious destruction of property, attempted first-degree arson, and arson threat. 

Gonzalez-Lopez is being held at St. Mary's County Detention Center without bond. 

On October 21st, 2024, Deputies with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence on the 42000 block of St. Johns Road in Hollywood to assist the Fire Department with a shed fire involving possible ammunition exploding inside. In the process of containing and extinguishing the fire, the Fire Department located dozens of firearms in one of the sheds.

As a result of the firearms being located, a search and seizure warrant was obtained and served on the residence by the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division in conjunction with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Department of Natural Resources Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Numerous firearms and large quantities of ammunition were seized from the property.

This remains on active investigation and no charges have been filed at this time.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Residents in areas of Letterkenny, Pennsylvania are advised that nighttime flights are scheduled to take place in your vicinity Oct. 23  through Nov. 15, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 4 a.m.

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

These missions are crucial to our national security.

Scheduling and execution of these flights are variable, and are always conducted in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration and Navy regulations.

NAS Patuxent River appreciates your understanding and will continue to take precautions to lessen the impact of flight operations on the community.  For more information call 1-866-819-9028. To view all current NAS PAX noise advisories please click the following link: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/PaxRiverNoise.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) will celebrate the Class of 2025 during graduation ceremonies at Regency Furniture Stadium in May. The ceremonies are set for May 27 through 30, at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf. High school principals and CCPS will continue to provide graduation updates to parents and students through the school year. On the day of a school’s graduation ceremony, the school will be closed to students in Grades 9 through 11. Staff of the graduating school will be working at its event.

Project Graduation, a substance-free celebration on the night of each school’s graduation, will be held from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Charles County Fairgrounds in La Plata. Each graduate can bring one guest to Project Graduation.

Graduation schedule

· Tuesday, May 27 — St. Charles High School, 9 a.m.

· Tuesday, May 27 — Henry E. Lackey High School, 1 p.m.

· Wednesday, May 28 — La Plata High School, 9 a.m.

· Wednesday, May 28 — Maurice J. McDonough High School, 1 p.m.

· Thursday, May 29 — Westlake High School, 9 a.m.

· Thursday, May 29 — Thomas Stone High School, 1 p.m.

· Friday, May 30 — North Point High School, 9 a.m.

Regency Furniture Stadium is at 11765 St Linus Drive in Waldorf. Each graduate will receive a set number of tickets to their graduation ceremony and each ceremony will be livestreamed at www.ccboe.com.

[Monday, Oct. 22, 2024] On Oct. 8, Charles County Commissioners joined with staff from the Charles County Animal Shelter and Charles County Department of Emergency Services, and community members for a groundbreaking on the new Charles County Animal Care Center.

The new animal care center will shelter and care for the county’s stray, sick, injured, and unwanted domestic animals until they can find their forever homes. The new facility at 5690 Piney Church Road in Waldorf will replace the old facility, which has served Charles County’s animal population for over 60 years.

“This shelter isn’t just a win for the animals – it’s a win for the community,” Michelle Lilly, Director of the Department of Emergency Services, said. “It will serve as a place where compassion, education, and public service come together.”

The new, approximately 22,000-square-foot center will house both the Animal Control and Animal Sheltering Divisions and include several improvements for animal care and community engagement.

The center will include 60 dog kennels, 95 cat cages, and small animal holding cages; a livestock barn with paddock; several community cat rooms, including a “catio,” and indoor meet-and-greet areas for both dogs and cats.

Other amenities include a medical clinic with a surgery suite of spay and neuter services, educational rooms, soundproofing to buffer animal barking sounds and other improvements.

For more information about the new animal center, please visit the New Charles County Animal Care Center Engage Page. Residents who wish to help support the center or adopt a new furry friend should visit the Charles County Animal Care Center page on the county website or the Charles County Animal Care Center Facebook Page.

To view our featured furry friend of the week, subscribe to Charles County Government on YouTube to view the Pet of the Week.

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1 (Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258).

The Maryland State Board of Education will meet Tuesday, October 22 at 9 a.m. at the Nancy S. Grasmick State Education Building, Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), 200 W. Baltimore St., in the State Board Room (7th floor).

During this meeting, the State Board will consider adopting the fourth version of the Comprehensive Pre-K to 3 Literacy Policy. This policy aims to guide efforts in enhancing early literacy outcomes and reflects robust engagement with stakeholders and deliberation of the board. The State Board will conduct a vote on the revised policy, which reflects the incorporation of public feedback.

Additionally, the State Board will review information on the status of federal grant programs and the MSDE financial reporting system. An informational update will be presented regarding the progress and findings of the Assessment and Accountability Task Force and Technical Advisory Committee.

The meeting will include special recognition of the 2023-2024 Principals of the Year, and introduction of new superintendents from various school systems.

Public Comment 

The State Board welcomes public comment both in-person and virtually during meetings. Registration is limited to 10 individuals on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the maximum number is reached, additional individuals may be placed on a waiting list. 

Public comment registration opens the week before the Board meeting date and ends at 3 p.m. on Monday, October 21. Interested individuals can register by completing this online form. Confirmed registrants for public comment will be notified. Comments are limited to three minutes for each speaker and monitored by staff.

The complete agenda and livestream are available online. The meeting will also be on YouTube.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) issues the following statement regarding Zoning Ordinance updates to allow for expanded industrial use to include potential data center development in Calvert County:

Calvert County Government is currently exploring the potential for data center development, but it’s important to clarify that no decisions have been made at this time. The county cannot influence specific deals related to data centers; instead, we are focusing on updating our policies and zoning to remain open to opportunities if they arise. We acknowledge the increasing demand for data centers in Maryland and the possible economic benefits.

The Calvert County Department of Economic Development aims to attract high-tech industries while ensuring responsible growth that respects the community's rural character. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance economic development and high-paying job creation in Calvert County. The BOCC recognizes the potential economic opportunities that data centers could bring to our community.

Residents are more connected than ever, using digital apps and tools on phones, TVs, computers and other devices. On average, the American household now has 21 internet-connected devices, and many industries rely on data for business. This increased connectivity drives the need to process large amounts of data through the cloud, which is supported by data centers—physical facilities providing essential infrastructure for our modern lives and economy.

The environment remains a top priority for our county. We will continue to assess any potential environmental impacts and ensure compliance with state and local regulations. While we are committed to managing growth responsibly, we understand the need to attract high-tech industries like data centers would create more high-paying job opportunities for Calvert County residents and generate additional tax revenue. Our goal is to encourage development that enhances our economy while protecting the small-town rural lifestyle valued by the majority of our residents. This approach will help to preserve the open spaces and rural character that define Calvert County.

The Data Center Coalition will present an overview of the data center industry at the next BOCC meeting on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. Residents are invited to attend. The meeting will take place in the Commissioners Hearing Room at the Calvert County Circuit Courthouse, located at 175 Main St., Prince Frederick. For those unable to attend in person, the meeting will be streamed live on the Calvert County Government YouTube page (www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov) and broadcast on Comcast channel 1070 HD.  If you need accommodations due to a disability or linguistic barriers, please contact the BOCC office at 410-535-1600, ext. 2202, or TTY 1-800-735-2258.

For more information, please visit www.ChooseCalvert.com/DataCenters.

Damaged Property: 24-77924 On October 9, 2024, DFC Aley responded to Williams and Heintz Map Co. located at 5351 Ketch Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft from a vehicle. The complainant advised sometime between 3:50 a.m. and 4:25 a.m., on Oct. 3, an unknown suspect (s) attempted to steal gasoline from the tank of one of the trucks on the property. During the attempted theft, the suspects damaged the gas tank of the vehicle. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,000.00.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-77236 On October 7, 2024, Deputy Deinert responded to the Dunkin Donuts, located at 30 Old Field Lane in Prince Frederick, for the report of a disorderly subject. The individual, identified as Dustin John-Caleb Halfhill, 33 of Coos Bay, Oregon, had been involved in a prior incident earlier that day at the Holiday Inn Express, where he threw a decorative pumpkin at a receptionist. Later, Halfhill entered the Dunkin Donuts, causing a disturbance by yelling at employees. When deputies arrived, Halfhill was told to leave the area but continued to shout and refused to comply. Halfhill was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct and Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order.

CDS Violation: 24-77287 On October 7, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to a reported theft at Weis, located at 750 N. Prince Frederick Blvd. in Prince Frederick. The complainant advised an unknown male attempted to steal a box of pain reliever medication. When confronted by store employees, the suspect became agitated, began yelling, and threw the medication across the store, nearly striking another customer, before fleeing toward Market Square. The suspect, identified as Dorian Lavant Dickerson, 21, of no fixed address, was later located at the Prince Frederick Library. During a search following his arrest, a Suboxone strip was found in his possession. Dickerson was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Theft less than $100.00, Disorderly Conduct, and CDS: Possession Not Cannabis. 

Trespassing: 24-77409 On October 7, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the Wawa located at 305 Market Square Drive in Prince Frederick, for the report of a trespassing. Upon arrival, contact was made with Matthew Leo Greening, 36 of no fixed address. Greening had been previously trespassed from the establishment. Greening was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Trespassing:Private Property. 

October 20, 2024, marks the one-year anniversary of the disappearance of Daniel Lewis Edwards, and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is renewing its call for the public’s help in locating him. Edwards was last seen on October 20, 2023, leaving a job site in the Town Creek neighborhood of California, MD. The Sheriff’s Office is reissuing this information in hopes that someone with new information might come forward to assist in resolving the case.

Edwards, a 56-year-old white male, stands 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs approximately 170 pounds. He was born in September 1967. His family reported him missing after they were unable to contact him, and detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division have since uncovered suspicious circumstances surrounding his disappearance.

Anyone with information about Daniel Edwards’ whereabouts is encouraged to contact Detective Taylore Nauman at 301-475-4200, ext. 8109, or via email at Taylore.Nauman@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. In the message block, type "Tip239" and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

On October 18 at 10 a.m., officers responded to the Park and Ride on Route 925 in Waldorf after being alerted there was a car in the lot with a window that had been broken out. Officers arrived and found seven cars with windows that were damaged or destroyed. Officers are continuing to investigate and ask anyone with information to call Officer Waldow at 301-609-3282 ext. 0749. 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. 

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. 

The Calvert County Department of Public Works, Solid Waste Division, will host a free household hazardous waste collection event for county residents Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024. The event will be held at Appeal Landfill, located at 401 Sweetwater Road in Lusby, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hazardous household products are common in many homes and must be disposed of carefully to prevent dangerous chemical reactions, ignition, burns, vapors and groundwater contamination that can occur when combined with everyday household waste. A substance is considered hazardous if it is corrosive or toxic, ignites easily, or reacts or explodes when mixed with other substances.

Acceptable hazardous waste items include auto and floor care products, medications, pesticides, gasoline, fertilizers, ammunition and more. To determine if a substance is hazardous, check product labels for words and/or symbols that indicate caution, warning, danger, poison or toxic. Latex paints will not be accepted at this event.

Proof of residency is required. There is no limit of material per resident. Businesses are prohibited from this event. For a full listing of accepted hazardous waste materials and for more information on household hazardous waste collection events, call the Calvert County Solid Waste Division at 410-326-0210 or visit www.CalvertCountymd.gov/HazardousWaste.

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.

DUI / Possession of Controlled Substance: On Sunday, September 29, 2024 Tpr Bennett performed a traffic stop for a silver Ford F-150 for driving violations. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Barry Parran, a 57 year-old male of Prince Frederick. Tpr Bennett was immediately alerted to signs of impairment from Parran. A field Standardized Field Sobriety Test was performed which was unsatisfactory. While being placed under arrest a search of Parran’s person was conducted and a U/S Dollar Bill was removed from Parran’s mouth. The bill was found to have suspected Crack Cocaine. Parran was placed under arrest and transported to Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with DUI and CDS related charges.

Possession of Controlled Substance: On Monday, October 7, 2024 Tpr. Parker responded to the Lusby Dunkin Donuts located at 174 Village Center Drive for an unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Clarnzett Weems, a 43-year-old male of Lusby. While talking to Weems, two burnt glass tubes with residue and a ball of copper scrubbing wire were in plain view of the driver side door. When questioned about the items, Weems stated they were for smoking crack. A search of the vehicle was conducted with no other items being seized. Weems was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS related charges. 

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation announces the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary trail systems will reopen for public use on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024. The trails were closed for renovations to the parking lot and stormwater management system in September. The nature center remains closed.

These necessary upgrades enhance the sanctuary’s infrastructure, providing better management of stormwater runoff and safeguarding the rare bald cypress swamp.

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary is 100-acre nature sanctuary located at 2880 Grays Road in Prince Frederick. It is home to one of the northernmost stands of bald cypress trees in North America, offering a unique glimpse into a rare and ancient ecosystem.

For updates on Parks & Recreation services, park availability, field closures and more visit Parks & Recreation at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyParks and follow Parks & Recreation on Instagram @calvertcountyparksandrec.

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.

[Friday, Oct. 15, 2024] The Charles County Department of Social Services is pleased to announce that Dr. Tanisha Sanders was selected to become the new Director of the Charles County Department of Social Services. Rafael Lopez, Maryland Secretary of Human Services, said Dr. Sanders would take office on Oct. 23.

Dr. Sanders holds a Bachelor of Arts from West Virginia University and a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Human Services from Capella University. Before the appointment, Dr. Sanders spent 19 years in service to Charles County and the State of Maryland, beginning as a foster care worker in 2001. From there, Sanders served in various roles, such as the Deputy Director for Service Programs at the Charles County Department of Social Services and as Youth in Transition Coordinator for Charles County Public Schools.

“Dr. Sanders has leveraged her experience in social work, youth mental health, program oversight, and collaboration with community partners to deliver better results for Maryland’s children, youth, and families,” Lopez said in the release. “Her leadership demonstrates the power of inclusion and relationship building in serving our customers.”

Dr. Sanders will replace Aleata Dawkins, who served as the acting Director for the Charles County Department of Social Services team during the transition process.

Low spawning success documented for sixth consecutive year

A juvenile striped bass caught and released by a survey crew in the Nanticoke River. Photo by Joe Zimmermann, Maryland DNR.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced results of this year’s juvenile striped bass survey, which tracks the reproductive success of Maryland’s state fish in the Chesapeake Bay. The 2024 young-of-year index is 2.0, well below the long-term average of 11.0, and marks the sixth consecutive year of poor reproduction.

“These results underscore the complexity of managing a coastal migratory species whose life-cycle is influenced by environmental conditions during a brief spawning period,” said Maryland DNR Fishing and Boating Services Director Lynn Fegley. “We will continue to explore ways to conserve and enhance the spawning population during this time when we are adding fewer young fish to the population.”

During this annual survey, fishery managers examine 22 sites located in four major striped bass spawning areas: the Choptank, Nanticoke, and Potomac rivers, and the upper Chesapeake Bay. Biologists visit each site three times per summer, collecting fish with two sweeps of a 100-foot beach seine net. The index represents the average number of young-of-year striped bass found in each sample. The juvenile striped bass  average less than 3 inches long and are not usually encountered by anglers. Similar fish surveys conducted this summer in the Patapsco, Magothy, Rhode, West, Miles, and Tred Avon rivers found fewer striped bass, also known as rockfish.

Biologists use a seine net to capture fish for the annual striped bass juvenile index survey in the Nanticoke River. Photo by Joe Zimmermann, Maryland DNR

Biologists captured more than 56,000 fish of 56 different species while conducting this year’s survey. Encouraging results were documented regarding two species lower on the food chain. Menhaden abundance was nearly equal to last year, which was the highest measured since 1990. Spot abundance was the highest measured since 1988. These species are vital to the ecology of the Bay as a food source for many other species of fish and wildlife.

Efforts to rebuild the Atlantic Coast population of striped bass have been ongoing for several years. Although recent population estimates indicate improvement, low levels of reproduction will influence future conservation measures under consideration by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.

In recent years, Maryland has implemented management actions aimed at rebuilding the spawning stock, including reductions to catch limits, increased protections for spawning fish, tighter slot limits, and season closures. However, warm conditions in winter continue to negatively impact the reproductive success of striped bass, whose larvae are very sensitive to water conditions and food availability in the first several weeks after hatching. Other species with similar spawning behavior such as white perch, yellow perch, and American shad also experienced below-average reproduction this year.

The below-average year classes will likely become more apparent among the adult population of striped bass in the coming years, as the juveniles reach maturity. While environmental conditions hamper reproductive success, fisheries managers focus conservation efforts on adult striped bass so that the spawning population can produce a strong year class when environmental conditions are favorable.

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science conducts a similar survey in the southern portion of Chesapeake Bay.

Patrol officers apprehend suspects connected to multiple thefts from autos and stolen vehicles: On October 14 at 4:21 a.m., patrol officers responded to the area of Cave Creek Court in Waldorf for the report of several suspects breaking into cars. As officers arrived, one of the suspects was observed on Derryfield Court. As officers approached, the suspect got into a white Honda SUV and fled.

Officers attempted to stop the Honda, which was reported stolen in La Plata, but the driver continued to flee. During the pursuit, a dark-colored Hyundai attempted to get in between the marked police car and the Honda in what appeared to be an attempt to help the Honda escape. The driver of the Hyundai struck the side the of police car; no one was injured. 

Officers utilized stop sticks, which both vehicles struck. The Honda became disabled and stopped on the shoulder of Mattawoman Beantown Road. The driver jumped out of the Honda and onto the hood of the Hyundai that stopped nearby; he eventually made his way inside the vehicle. Officers pursued the Hyundai which became disabled near Coventry Way in Prince George’s County. Four suspects jumped out of that vehicle and fled on foot. Two of the suspects were apprehended without further incident.

A computer check revealed the Hyundai was also reported stolen in Virginia. Officers recovered a semi-automatic firearm with an extended magazine inside one of the vehicles. Several surveillance videos were subsequently recovered which linked the suspects to thefts in Sheffield and in various locations in La Plata. 

Dimiuan Paul Jackson, age 24, and Robert Leroy Barnes, age 24, both of Washington, D.C., were charged with theft, trespassing, and other related charges. On October 14, a district court commissioner released Jackson and Barnes from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance.

The investigation is ongoing to identify the other two suspects. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Burgess at 301-609- 6494. 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. 

CCSO Judicial Services Section Participates in National Family Violence Warrant Sweep: Officers with the Judicial Services Section, along with the Neighborhood Enforcement Team and Patrol, recently participated in the 2024 National Family Violence Warrant Sweep, an initiative aimed at raising awareness and addressing the ongoing crisis of domestic violence across our communities. During the sweep, officers attempted to serve 80 warrants, resulting in 16 arrests. They also recovered a firearm without a serial number, along with CDS.

The National Family Violence Warrant Sweep takes place every October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office collaborates with local, state, and federal partners to support victims and hold offenders accountable for domestic violence. For more information on domestic violence resources, please contact the Center for Abused Persons at 301-645-3336.

LEONARDTOWN, Md.— The Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission (MLTRC) will hold

a public hearing in Leonardtown on November 16, 2024, as part of its ongoing effort to bring awareness

to Maryland’s history of racial violence and to foster reconciliation in the present. Research reveals that

two Black men were lynched in Southern Maryland and 38 were lynched across Maryland.

The November hearing will focus on the history of lynching in Southern Maryland, including the killing of

Benjamin Hance in St. Mary’s County in 1876 and of Charles Whitley in Calvert County in 1886 (there

were no recorded lynchings in Charles County). Descendants of the victims and aggressors, expert

witnesses, community members, scholars, and archivists will have the opportunity to provide testimony

and make recommendations for achieving racial healing. Community members are encouraged to submit their testimony to mltrc@maryland.gov or bring their written testimony to be collected at the public

hearing.

This event is part of the St. Mary’s County Museum Division’s bi-annual Social Justice & Equity; Equity

programming, in commemoration of the November 1, 1864 ratification of the new Maryland Constitution

which ended slavery in the state. Past events have included the soil collection and marker placement for

lynching victim Benjamin Hance, and the placement of five Stopping Stone in honor of five Freedom

Seekers held in prison at the Old Jail in Leonardtown.

Established in 2019 through House Bill 307, the MLTRC is the first statewide commission of its kind in the

nation. The commission works with local historians in researching cases of lynching throughout the state

and holds these public hearings in communities where lynchings took place to shine a light on the dark

legacy of lynching in Maryland and its enduring impacts on the Black community and communities of

color. At the heart of the MLTRC mission is the pursuit of justice and healing for the victims of lynching

and their descendants.

HEARING DETAILS

When: Saturday, November 16, 3024

Time (in person and streaming): 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Where: St. Mary’s County Public Library, Leonardtown Branch, 23630 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown,

MD

How to Attend: · In-person: Preregistration is required to help manage attendance.

· Livestream: A link to stream the hearing will be posted on MLTRC’s website one day

before the hearing.

SUBMIT TESTIMONY

Members of the public are encouraged to submit written testimony about how the lynching of the victims

has impacted their lives and their communities or make recommendations to address the legacy of

lynching in Maryland and promote racial healing. Written testimony can be submitted to mltrc@maryland.gov or collected at the public hearing.

Contact Trish Floyd, MLTRC, tboyle@oag.state.md.us, 314-437-1362

LEONARDTOWN, MD (October 17, 2024) – Detectives from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division executed search and seizure warrants on Wednesday, October 16, at a residence in the 22000 block of Rue Woods Drive in Lexington Park, recovering approximately 685 grams of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS), suspected to be a mixture of fentanyl and heroin.

Following an investigation into suspected drug trafficking activities, detectives obtained warrants to search the residence and person of Daisaun Altay Eric Culpepper, 31. During the search, law enforcement recovered numerous tied-off bags containing the suspected fentanyl-heroin mixture, digital scales with CDS residue, over $6000 in currency, and CDS packaging materials.

Culpepper was arrested on an open Circuit Court warrant for violation of probation from a prior CDS distribution charge, transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, and charged with the following:

• CDS: possession with intent to distribute narcotics
• CDS possession with intent to distribute a dangerous mixture containing heroin and fentanyl
• CDS: possession of a large amount
• CDS: possession - not cannabis

The suspect remains in custody at the Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing.

 LEONARDTOWN, MD (October 17, 2024) – The suspect has been identified as Kenneth Louis Price, 38, of Washington, D.C.

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported domestic assault today at approximately 10:54 a.m. at a residence in the 46000 block of Rosewood Drive in Lexington Park. Upon arrival, deputies found Alaysia Janell Milburn, 25, suffering from a gunshot wound. Milburn was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased. A seven-month-old infant was also transported from the scene for precautionary measures.

Witnesses at the scene told deputies a male suspect fled in a red Hyundai Kona. Deputies located the vehicle traveling north on Route 5 at high speeds and initiated a lawful pursuit. As the car entered Charles County, deputies from the Charles and Calvert County Sheriff’s Offices and the Maryland State Police responded and joined the pursuit.

Ultimately, while traveling near the 15000 block of Prince Frederick Road in Hughesville, a Calvert County Deputy made contact with the suspect's vehicle, rendering it inoperable. The suspect briefly exited, then reentered his vehicle and fired a single shot. When deputies reached the car, they found the suspect with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and immediately rendered aid until emergency medical services arrived and transported the suspect to a nearby trauma center. The Calvert County Deputy was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect was pronounced deceased at approximately 12:53 p.m.; identification of the suspect is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Sheriff Steve Hall said, “We mourn the loss of this young mother, and we hold her family in prayer. Today’s tragic set of circumstances brings light to the need to continue efforts on all fronts to prevent violence in domestic relationships. We are grateful no one else was injured during the vehicle pursuit. The professionalism displayed by officers of the tri-county and the teamwork between our three counties was on full display, and the work was exemplary.”

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the investigation of the incident on Rosewood Drive. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Kortnie Marsch at 301-475-4200, ext. 8179, or by email at Kortnie.Marsch@stmaryscountymd.gov.

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the events that occurred on Prince Frederick Road.

[Tuesday, Oct 15, 2024] The Charles County Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism is pleased to announce that the application cycle for its tourism grant for non-profit organizations in Charles County is now open. The grant is available to support events such as Heritage Tourism product development, site tours, interpretations, and other special events and attract out-of-town overnight visitation through creative partnerships and weekend event development.

Applicants must be based in Charles County and accessible to all customers, including residents and visitors. Additionally, applicants must be an active 501(c)3 organization in good standing with the Maryland Secretary of State and accessible (open to the public, not membership-based). Applicants must also have no active zoning/permitting violations. Special consideration will be given to applicants with projects that enhance county tourism objectives and show evidence of fostering or strengthening partnerships with other county organizations, attractions, or initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Charles County citizens and tourism visitors.

Applicants who receive funding from the Charles County Charitable Trust are not eligible for grant funding within the same fiscal year. Grant recipients who must exhaust previously awarded grant funds or meet the grant reporting requirements can reapply for additional funding once all requirements for previously disbursed funding are met. Any exceptions will be reviewed internally for approval.

Click here for more information or to apply. Interested applicants should complete the form by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024. Completed packets should be sent by email to GrayB@CharlesCountyMD.gov or sent by mail to the Charles County Department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism, Tourism Division. Letters should be sent to Brittney Gray, Tourism Outreach Specialist, at 8190 Port Tobacco Road, Port Tobacco, MD, 20677. Applications can also be dropped off in the drop box at the right-hand side of the front double doors at the Charles County Department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism, Tourism Division at 8190 Port Tobacco Road, Port Tobacco, MD 20677.

Any awarded projects and programs must be delivered in Charles County and completed by June 30, 2025.

For more information, contact Brittney Gray at GrayB@CharlesCountyMD.gov

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1 (Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258).

The St. Mary’s County Health Department invites new and expecting parents who live in St. Mary’s County to a Drive-Thru Community Baby Shower on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub.

This free event will offer attendees giveaway items, including diapers, baby wipes, pacifiers, bottles, and more, while supplies last.

The Health Hub is located at 21625 Great Mills Road, Lexington Park, MD 20653. Cars should enter the Health Hub at the entrance off of Great Mills Rd closest to the Sheriff's Office. Please remain in your vehicle if you drive to the event. Walkers will also be allowed.

“We are excited to support our growing St. Mary’s families with this community baby shower," said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. "The resources and education offered will promote parent and infant health in our community.”

Pre-registration is required - click here to register. If you have any difficulty registering, please call 301-475-4330 or email smchd.healthdept@maryland.gov for assistance. Individuals must live in St. Mary’s County and be either pregnant or raising a new baby (less than 6 months old).

To learn more about SMCHD's programs and services for infants, children, and families, please visit smchd.org/infants-and-children.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Sean Patrick Kraese, 24, of Piney Point, Maryland, was sentenced to the maximum penalty of seven years in prison after his conviction for animal cruelty and obscene material charges related to performing sexual acts on his pet dog.

“The Defendant was convicted of distribution of obscene material, possession of obscene material with intent to distribute, and two counts of aggravated animal cruelty following a bench trial. I want to thank the countless members of law enforcement officers including the responding animal control officers, sheriff’s deputies and detectives, crime lab technicians, and prosecutors who worked tirelessly together on this investigation to ensure the successful prosecution for these unimaginable crimes,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling.

Sergeant Keith Moritz of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Sarah Proctor and Assistant State’s Attorney Zachary Varda prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

For additional information, please see the prior news release posted on September 6, 2024.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding NAS Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place October 15-16, 2024 from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Pilots at NAS Pax River will be conducting Field Carrier Landing Practices (FCLPs). FCLPs are simulated carrier landings conducted to prepare the pilot to land safely on an aircraft carrier. The practices consist of series of touch-and-go maneuvers where airspeed, altitude, and power are precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach a ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our personnel and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations.

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Aging & Human Services (DAHS) is proud to host Veterans Resource Day on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland, located at 44219 Airport Road in California, Maryland.

This event is free and open to the public. Veterans, active service members, their friends and families are all welcome to attend Veterans Resource Day.

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) will be on site from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to answer questions and assist with claims processing! Additionally, there will be more than 20 organizations serving veterans on-site. Join us for a presentation during the event:

Suicide Awareness & Prevention

Greg Reuss, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

10 – 11 a.m.

Financial Literacy & Fraud Prevention

Ronney A. Wright, Force Master Chief

The United Services Automobile Association (USAA)

12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Free lunch will be provided at noon by Mission BBQ.

Want to skip the registration line? Register online at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/veterans. Online registrants will be eligible for a special prize! Online registration closes at noon on Thursday, November 7, 2024.

Many thanks to our generous event sponsors: SMECO, Greenwell Foundation, and CareFirst BlueCross Blue Shield!

For more information, contact Sarah Martin, DAHS Community Programs & Outreach Division Manager, at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1073 or via email to: sarah.miller@stmaryscountymd.gov.

[Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024] The Charles County Economic Development Department will host its 2024 Fall Meeting on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. The event will occur from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM at the Velocity Center at Indian Head.

This year's meeting, “Forging Charles County’s Future Together: The Strategic Power of Partnerships,” will explore the transformative impact of strategic partnerships on innovation, business growth, job creation, and regional development.

“Partnerships play a crucial role in driving Charles County’s growth,” shares Economic Development Director Kelly Robertson-Slagle. “The 2024 Fall Meeting will spotlight the power of these strategic collaborations and their crucial role in shaping a prosperous future for our community. By working together, we can unlock new opportunities and make Charles County a better place to live, work, and play.” The event will feature presentations from distinguished thought leaders, defense industry experts, business owners, and economic development professionals.

Robertson-Slagle will deliver an update on the state of economic development in Charles County. Then, an expert panel will discuss “Smart Arsenal,” an NSWC modernization initiative to grow the NSWC IHD’s infrastructure, workforce, and partnerships. During the panel, experts will share insights on the latest initiative advancements and engage in a dynamic conversation about the arsenal's future. A final panel will explore small business partnerships, highlighting collaboration's vital role in driving innovation and growth.

Dewan Clayborn, IOM, president and chief executive officer of the Central Maryland Chamber of Commerce, will deliver the closing keynote, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in driving regional growth and innovation. The 2024 Fall Meeting presents a valuable platform for community leaders, business owners, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue about Charles County's future. Attendees will gain insights into how strategic partnerships can unlock new opportunities.

To learn more about the Fall Meeting, visit the EDD website at https://www.meetcharlescounty.com/fall-meeting-2024 or register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/charles-county-economic-developments-2024-fall-meeting-tickets-1007741260237?aff=oddtdtcreator. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1 (Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258).

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) will host a Public Forum on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the CSMC meeting room in the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown.

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

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

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

Appropriate accommodation for individuals with language or special needs will be provided upon request. To meet these requirements, we respectfully ask for one week’s prior notice. Please contact the Public Information Office at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1340 for more information or to request accommodations.

CSMC Public Forums are televised live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) TV Channel 95 and streamed live on our YouTube Channel at www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

For more information on the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, including meeting schedules, related documents, or contact information, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/csmc.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) will host a Public Forum on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the CSMC meeting room in the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown.

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

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

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

Appropriate accommodation for individuals with language or special needs will be provided upon request. To meet these requirements, we respectfully ask for one week’s prior notice. Please contact the Public Information Office at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1340 for more information or to request accommodations.

CSMC Public Forums are televised live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) TV Channel 95 and streamed live on our YouTube Channel at www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

For more information on the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, including meeting schedules, related documents, or contact information, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/csmc.

 At approximately 5:50 p.m. on Monday, October 14, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 45000 block of Great Mills Court for the report of a sexual assault.

The Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division is actively investigating the incident. Preliminary findings indicate the incident is isolated and there is no immediate threat to the public. Additional information will be forthcoming.

Those with information regarding this case are asked to contact Detective Andrew Burgess at Andrew.Burgess@stmaryscountymd.gov or by phone at 301-475-4200, ext. 8041.

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. In the message block, type "Tip239" and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

After hours of searching for Miles McMahon, age 5, unfortunately, he was located in a pond, not too far from his house a short time ago and was deceased. The pond and the area surrounding it had been our primary focus. Although the pond had been searched earlier in the day by another unit, the Maryland State Police dive team responded this evening to check the pond again and found Miles. We are heartbroken along with Miles’ family and all of you. Please keep Miles and his family in your thoughts and prayers as well as all first responders and all of those who assisted. We will provide more updates when they become available.

Original Release: Critical Missing 5-Year-Old from Bannister Neighborhood in Waldorf / Missing child has Autism and is Non-Verbal: On October 13 at 11 a.m., officers responded to the 1000 block of St. Pauls Drive in Waldorf for the report of a missing child. Home security footage showed Miles McMahon, age 5, leaving the house and skipping in his front yard. He was wearing a red T-shirt, no pants, and no shoes. Family members searched the area and contacted 9-1-1 when they could not locate him. Officers established a perimeter and immediately focused their attention on ponds and bodies of water nearby. The CCSO Search Management Team responded and established trained search teams using specialized apps for tracking. Members of the UAS (drone) Team and Maryland State Police Trooper 2 were activated and members of the La Plata Police and the Charles County Dive Team responded. Police K9 and bloodhounds are continuing to track the area. The CCSO asks anyone in the area to search their yard, pool, sheds, shrubs, trees, small hiding places, etc. People who check their neighborhoods are asked to stay on sidewalks where possible, not enter anyone’s yard, and stay clear of where the search team is working which is primarily in the area of St. Pauls Drive and Piney Church Road. Residents are also asked to check their home security cameras for any activity and to contact the Sheriff’s Office if they have relative footage. As night approaches, visibility decreases; please remain vigilant and report any sightings immediately. Also, consider keeping exterior lights on to aid in visibility for search efforts. The CCSO urges everyone to remain vigilant as searchers continue to look for Miles. Anyone with information should call 9-1-1.

Burglary Arrest: 24-76247
On October 3, 2024, at approximately 2 a.m., DFC Hudson responded to a burglary in progress
in the 100 block of Armory Road in Prince Frederick. The victims reported hearing a loud
banging at the back door, which was then forced open and heavily damaged. A suspect,
described as tall and wearing a black hoodie, was seen fleeing the residence. Deputies
established a perimeter, and the suspect was located in the Fox Run Shopping Center. The
suspect, Tony Donell Chase, 36 of Prince Frederick, was taken into custody. He was transported
to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with 3rd Degree Burglary, 4th Degree
Burglary, and Malicious Destruction of Property.

CDS Violation: 24-76645
On October 4, 2024, Calvert County Sheriff's Deputies initiated a traffic stop along Ball Road in
St. Leonard on a vehicle displaying a large crack in the windshield with an unrestrained
passenger. The vehicle failed to stop immediately, and deputies observed the female passenger
throwing items out of the window. The vehicle eventually stopped near Mutual Elementary
School at 1455 Ball Road. Upon making contact with the occupants, identified as Mark Leroy
Elliott, 64, and Emily Lauren Miller, 38, both of Port Republic, deputies questioned Miller
regarding the items thrown from the vehicle. She claimed to have been discarding trash. Further
investigation revealed a K9 scan of the vehicle resulted in a positive alert for narcotics. A search
of Elliott revealed a clear baggie containing suspected cocaine and a piece of Chore Boy copper,
commonly used in drug paraphernalia. A search of the vehicle uncovered two glass smoking
devices with burnt residue, one of which contained suspected crack cocaine, along with a silver
rod containing crack cocaine residue. Both Elliott and Miller were arrested and transported to the
Calvert County Detention Center. Elliott was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.
Miller was charged with Littering/Dumping Under 100 lbs., CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, and
CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-76469
On October 3, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the 1500 block of Old Plum Point Road in
Huntingtown, for the report of a disorderly subject. Investigation revealed Tanya Lee Young, 54
of Huntingtown, was acting disorderly and disturbing the peace after screaming for four
consecutive hours. Cpl. Barger advised Young to stay inside the residence and not yell anymore
for the rest of the night or she’d be arrested. Young subsequently went inside, but exited the
house as deputies were leaving and could be heard screaming from the driveway with all the
windows up. Tanya was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with
Disorderly Conduct and Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order.

Property Destruction: 24-75544
On September 30, 2024, DFC Aley responded to Silverwood Apartments located in the 200
block of Shore Acres Way in Prince Frederick, for the report of property destruction. The
complainant advised an unknown suspect caused damage to his vehicle sometime between 11
a.m. and 2:20 p.m. while parked in the parking lot. Investigation revealed the vehicle’s back
glass window, sunroof window, and front windshield were all broken. A huge dent was observed
on the roof of the vehicle. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,000.00.

Theft: 24-75568
On September 30, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to the Weiss Supermarket located at 750
Prince Frederick Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed an
unknown white male had entered the store and stole numerous face lotions and beauty products
along with a Maryland hat. The suspect passed all points of sale without making payment. The
estimated value of stolen property is $355.34.

Theft: 24-76107
On October 2, 2024, DFC R. Jones responded to the 12600 block of Hilltop Road in Lusby, for
the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between 7 p.m. on Oct. 27 and 4:45 a.m.
on Oct. 28, an unknown suspect(s) entered his unlocked vehicle and stole his brown Levi wallet
containing several credit cards and $200 in cash. The estimated value of stolen property is
$230.00.

Theft: 24-76368
On October 3, 2024, Calvert Deputies were conducting patrols in the Marley Run Subdivision in
Huntingtown and observed suspicious activity. Deputies observed FedEx deliver a package to a
residence on Dorado Drive. Approximately 10 minutes later, Deputies observed a vehicle enter
the culdesac and a male wearing an Amazon vest exit the vehicle and approached the front porch
of the residence. The male was observed stealing the package containing 3 Apple iPhones
delivered by FedEx. Suspect, Jhunior Moises Mendez Pena, 31 of Mount Rainier, was placed
under arrest without incident. The estimated value of stolen property was $3,397.00. Pena was
transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Theft: $1500 to Under
$25,000, Tampering with Mail/Mailbox, and Burglary- 4
th Degree Theft.

Theft: 24-76592
On October 4, 2024, DFC Strong responded to Rolands of Chesapeake Station located at 7875
Bayside Road in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed a male
wearing a charcoal hooded jacket and sunglasses entered the store grabbed a 750ML bottle of
Tito’s vodka and fled the store. Deputies canvassed the area and located a male matching the
suspect’s description at Bayside and Harbor Road. The male, Logan Xavier Combs, 19 of
Chesapeake Beach, admitted to stealing the vodka. Combs was transported to the Calvert County
Detention Center and charged with Theft: Less than $100.

Trespassing: 24-75694
On October 1, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to the WaWa in Prince Frederick located at 305
Market Square Drive in Prince Frederick, for the report of trespassing. Contact was made with
Dorian Lavant Dickerson, 21 of no fixed address, who had been trespassed indefinitely from
the property. Dickerson was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention
Center and charged with Trespassing: Private Property.
Dorian Lavant Dickerson

Trespassing: 24-76166
On October 1, 2024, DFC Crum was patrolling the Market Square Shopping Center on Costley
Way in Prince Frederick, when he observed two individuals sleeping in chairs outside a local
business. As DFC Crum approached, he made contact with one of the individuals, identified as
Steven Thorton Etter, 25, of Lusby. Etter was informed that businesses would soon be opening,
and he was asked to clean up the scattered trash and vacate the area. Etter became argumentative,
refused to comply with instructions, and failed to provide identification. Due to his behavior and
existing trespass conditions, Etter was placed under arrest and charged with Trespassing: Private
Property, Obstructing and Hindering, Resisting/Interfering with Arrest.
On Oct. 2, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the Market Square Shopping Center located on
Costley Way in Prince Frederick, for the report of trespassing. Contact was made with Steven
Thorton Etter, 25 of Lusby, who had been trespassed indefinitely from the property. Etter was
arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Trespassing:
Private Property.

MDOT State Highway Administration crews will soon start roadwork at two additional locations in southern Maryland. Drivers are asked to slow down in the work zone for the safety of all drivers and the crews working to improve our roadways.

Area residents and commuters are also advised to plan for additional travel time.

Routine Maintenance Scheduled Sunday Morning, October 13 on Gov. Thomas Johnson Bridge:

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will perform routine maintenance on the MD 4 (Governor Thomas Johnson) Bridge? at the Calvert County / St. Mary’s County line starting at 6 a.m. Sunday, October 13. All lanes will open to traffic no later than 2 p.m. that afternoon, weather permitting.

Maintenance crews will clean the drainage systems and the bridge deck (driving surface). Drivers can expect single-lane closures guided using a flagging operation. The State Highway Administration will use flaggers and portable variable message signs to guide motorists safely through the work zone.

MD 5 Resurfacing between MD 6 and MD 235, Starting Tonight October 10th:

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will resurface a section of northbound MD 5 (Three Notch Road) between MD 6 (New Market Turner Road) and MD 235 beginning October 10. The resurfacing project should be completed by mid-November, weather permitting. Crews will remove the top layer of asphalt, patch, and resurface MD 5 within the project limits.

Drivers should expect daytime and nighttime single-lane closures 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sundays through Fridays. Work hours are subject to change. The State Highway Administration’s contractor F. O. Day Company Inc. of Rockville will use portable variable message signs, temporary traffic signs and barrels to guide motorists through the work zone.

For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, go to Project Portal, or visit the homepage at roa?ds.maryland.?gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.mary?land.gov.

??????Customers may also contact the SHA District 5 Office at 410-841-1000 or toll free at 1-800-331-5603 for additional information.

[Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024] Charles County is proud to announce the development of its first Climate Action Plan. The plan is part of the County's ongoing climate action initiatives. Between record heat waves, increasingly severe storms, flooding, drought, warming water temperatures, and the loss of pollinator species that help cultivate our crops, it is becoming increasingly important that the County addresses the changing climate. The Climate Action Plan will identify necessary government and community actions needed to ensure resilience to the effects of climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and sustain the health and vitality of Charles County.

Charles County Government will host public meetings and a series of interactive webinars to gather community input to develop a resilient, actionable, and equitable Climate Action Plan. The first of these meetings will be an interactive webinar series that will guide attendees through the Climate Action planning process. The first interactive webinar in the series is scheduled for Nov. 13, 2024, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The community will be able to learn more about climate change and the fundamentals of climate action plans. The meeting will feature live and interactive polling and a question-and-answer session to gather feedback, establish new relationships, and build upon existing stakeholder and community partnerships.

Online registration for the webinar is requested. Click here to register for the event. Once registered, you will receive a calendar appointment with a link to join the meeting. Please visit our online project page here to learn more about the Charles County Government’s climate action planning process. You may also call 301-645-0692 or email ClimateAction@CharlesCountyMD.gov.

Charles County is committed to ensuring equal access for all meeting participants. For accommodation requests, please contact [ClimateAction@CharlesCountyMD.gov]ClimateAction@CharlesCountyMD.gov. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1 (Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258).

(Lexington Park, MD) – Maryland State Police homicide investigators arrested a 50-year-old woman in connection with the death of Demeatrum Scarborough in St. Mary’s County.

The accused is identified as Simone Stewart, 50, of Lexington Park, Maryland. She is charged with second degree murder, first degree assault, homicide by motor vehicle, and driving under the influence.

Stewart is currently at the St. Mary’s Detention Center awaiting an appearance before the court commissioner. 

The victim is identified as Demeatrum Scarborough, 53, of Lexington Park, Maryland. Scarborough was pronounced deceased yesterday by hospital personnel at Medstar Washington Hospital.

Police believe Stewart and Scarborough were involved in an ongoing relationship. Further investigation indicates they were involved in an alleged altercation at the time the incident occurred.  Based on additional information received, evidence collected, and consultation with the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney, Stewart was charged with the murder of Demeatrum Scarborough.

Shortly before 1:00 pm on Monday, October 7, 2024, troopers from the Leonardtown Barrack responded to Spring Valley Drive and Valley Court in Lexington Park for the report of a pedestrian struck by a Chevrolet Suburban. Upon arrival, troopers located the pedestrian, later identified as Scarborough, with apparent injuries.  He was subsequently flown by Maryland State Police Aviation Command to MedStar Washington Hospital.

The preliminary investigation indicates Stewart was the driver of a Chevrolet Suburban at the time of the incident. Investigators from the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit are leading the investigation.

Assistance with the investigation is being provided by troopers from the Leonardtown Barrack, regional investigators from the Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division Central South, crime scene technicians from the Forensic Sciences Division, and the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Anyone with information relevant to this investigation is urged to contact homicide investigators at the Maryland State Police Leonardtown Barrack at 301-475-8955. All calls may remain confidential. The investigation is active and ongoing.

On Tuesday, Oct. 8, Alicia Afroilan, Engineering Supervisor, and the County's consultant representative, Christopher Ramos of Hazen & Sawyer, presented a briefing on the current status of the Charles County Water Supply Program. The program was established to provide long-term water supply reliability for the Waldorf and Bryan’s Road systems and accommodate a projected growth in water demand. The presentation provided updates on a short-term effort to build an interconnection pipeline along Route 301 to connect the Waldorf system to the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission. The interconnection is projected to come online by 2027.

The timeline for a long-term solution to establish a new intake and water treatment plant along the Upper Potomac River was also discussed. The new intake and plant would add 5-10 million gallons per day to the water supply, and the estimated timeline for that plan extends past 2031. 

Briefings

·       Johnny Olszewski, President, and Michael Sanderson, Executive Director, Maryland Association of Counties (MACo), provided an annual update to commissioners. MACo officials provided a snapshot of the organization’s efforts during the 2024 Maryland General Assembly Session and discussed zoning-related issues from two bills that passed into law.

·       Charles Rice, Planning Director, and Karen Wiggen, Planner, Department of Planning and Growth Management, led a briefing on the Fiscal Year 2025 Municipal Storm Water Financial Assurance Plan. The Assurance Plan demonstrates that the county has a sufficient funding source and plan of action to meet the requirements of its municipal stormwater permit. Commissioners scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024.

·       Jacob Dyer, Acting Director, and Eric Jackson, Chief of Treasury, Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, presented a briefing on Proposed Bill 2024-14 Revisions to the Homeowners Tax Credit. The amendments would change the county code so that the combined household income always matches the State’s Homeowners’ Property Tax Program. Commissioners accepted the bill and scheduled the public hearing for Tuesday, November 19, 2024.

·       Kayla Hunt, Communications Coordinator, Doria Fleisher, Community Engagement Coordinator, and Jennifer Harris, Chief of Media Services, briefed commissioners on the applications of various media tools to build community engagement, including the new “Stay Engaged, Charles County” platform. 

Department Highlights

Commissioners heard updates on the activities of the Department of Human Resources, Department of Emergency Services, Department of Fiscal & Administrative Services,  and the Department of Economic Development.

Approval Items

·       A budget amendment increase of $306,220 to support the Recreation Aging Fund Aging Nutrition Program to provide congregate meals at Senior Centers and home-delivered meals to eligible seniors.

·       A lease agreement for Blue Crabs Stadium.

·       An additional Public Hearing Date for Proposed Bill 2024-06 Zoning Text amendment ZTA 22-174 Mixed Use Zone on Oct. 30, 2024.

Viewing option of the meeting and the public hearing: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: Oct. 22-23

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1 (Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258).

Detectives from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division executed a search and seizure warrant on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at a residence in the 21000 block of Little Girls Way, resulting in the recovery of an unserialized handgun, magazines, and ammunition.

Following an ongoing investigation, detectives secured the warrant and served it at the Lexington Park residence, where they located a polymer 80 handgun equipped with a machine gun conversion device, which enables a semiautomatic weapon to function as a fully automatic firearm.

Devin Allen Miles, 21, of Lexington Park, was arrested and charged with possession of a rapid-fire trigger activator and possession of a machine gun for an aggressive purpose.

Miles was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown to await a bond hearing.

The Board of Education of Charles County is hosting a virtual Town Hall on Monday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. through Zoom. The topic of the Town Hall is school climate.

Superintendent of Schools Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D., and CCPS staff will provide an overview presentation about school climate, with the remaining time reserved for questions, answers and comments from Board members, staff and virtual attendees. The Town Hall will livestream on the CCPS website at www.ccboe.com.

Parents, staff, students and community members are encouraged to attend to ask questions or provide comments about the Town Hall topic. Participants will be able to provide comments and ask questions in the chat area of the Zoom. A Spanish interpreter will be available in the Zoom.

To join the Town Hall through Zoom, participants must register in advance using the link below. All participants must have an active Zoom account to participate.

Click here to register for the virtual Town Hall.

Questions, comments and/or other ideas shared at the Town Hall should reference education-related topics. A presentation about school climate is scheduled on the Board’s Oct. 15 meeting agenda. Board meetings also stream live on the CCPS website at www.ccboe.com.

Parents, staff, students and community members can submit questions and/or comments in advance through the form linked below.

Question/comment form.

The form closes at noon, Friday, Nov. 1. The Board and CCPS staff will address submissions as time permits during the Town Hall. Questions about the Town Hall can be submitted to boardmail@ccboe.com.

Pax River Gate 1 Outbound Closure Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024

NAS Pax River Gate 1 outbound lanes will be closed to traffic Thursday, Oct. 10 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. for scheduled maintenance. Drivers must use Gate 2 for outbound traffic during that time.

Pax River Gate 1 inbound lanes will remain open during the maintenance.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and the Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board reminds Agricultural Preservation District (APD) owners the application period for the county’s Purchase and Retirement (PAR) Fund program remains open through Nov. 8, 2024.  Established in 1992, the PAR program is part of Calvert County’s longstanding effort to preserve agricultural land. Through the program, Transferable Development Rights (TDRs) are purchased, retired and permanently removed from the market to protect farmland from development.

The BOCC recently approved a new purchase price of $6,000 per TDR, which replaced the $5,500 price previously approved in September 2023. The county will offer to buy development rights from willing sellers until funding is exhausted. Applications are ranked by the formula established in the program rules & regulations and offers to purchase TDRs from eligible applicants and applications received will be made in rank order. There is no cap on how many TDRs can be sold by an individual owner.  Learn more on the application process at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/PAR.

The application deadline is Nov. 8 at 4:30 p.m. Applications are available on the county website at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/PAR. Completed applications may be submitted by U.S. mail to the Department of Planning & Zoning, Attention: Rural Planner Jennifer David at 150 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678, or by email to Jennifer.David@calvertcountymd.gov. For more information, email or call Jennifer David at 410-535-1600, ext. 2238.

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

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

The CSMC then presented proclamations in recognition of White Cane Awareness Day, National 4-H Week, National Faith and Blue Weekend, and National Community Planning Month.

The Commissioners also presented a commendation to Terry Kerns in celebration on her retirement from St. Mary’s County Government.

For their first main agenda item, the Commissioners received a presentation on the upcoming update to our local Comprehensive Plan, St. Mary’s County 2050: Charting Our Tomorrow, from the Department of Land Use and Management and their supporting consulting team.

For their second main agenda item, the Commissioners discussed proposed updates to the St. Mary’s County Public Ethics Ordinance.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the emergency replacement of the Great Mills High School chiller.
• Approved the roof and HVAC systemic renovation for Green Holly Elementary School.

The Commissioners wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The CSMC will reconvene this afternoon at 2:30 p.m. to host a visit from the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo).

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. The meeting will begin offsite at 9 a.m. with the Joint Meeting with the Board of Education. The CSMC will reconvene at 11 a.m. for their regular business meeting in the CSMC Meeting Room (1^st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown). CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) and the Board of Education (BOE) will hold a joint meeting on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the BOE meeting room, located at 23160 Moakley Street in Leonardtown.

“Several times each year, the Board of Education and the Commissioners of St. Mary's County meet to discuss our shared interests and goals for the students of St. Mary's County and how best to support parents and the broader community,” said Scott Smith, St. Mary’s County Public Schools Superintendent. “We look forward to discussing resources and long-term planning to meet the needs and expectations of those living in St. Mary's County.”

The joint meeting will feature discussion on the following topics:

• Blueprint for Maryland Education
• Elms Environmental Education Center
• Student Enrollment
• St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) Capital Improvements Program
• Everside Health Clinic

“We are committed to supporting public education and ensuring that our students receive the best possible opportunities,” said Randy Guy, CSMC President. “These joint meetings allow us to come together to address key issues like infrastructure, enrollment growth, and long-term planning, all of which are essential to supporting the future of St. Mary's County.”

This meeting is open to the public and will be recorded. The recording will air on St. Mary’s County Government TV Channel 95 the following Friday, October 25 at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, October 26 at 3 p.m., and Sunday, October 27 at noon. The recording will also be available for on-demand viewing via our YouTube Channel post-production. The public may watch the meeting live online at www.smcps.org/streaming. CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the St. Mary’s County Government website in BoardDocs.

Information on the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, including meeting schedules, minutes, and more is available at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/csmc.

For more details on the meeting or to request accommodations, please call SMCPS at (301) 475-5511, ext. 32177.

State will select up to five watersheds for a five-year targeted investment for restoration 

Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo

The Whole Watershed Restoration Partnership, created to address multiple conservation goals in the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays and their watersheds, has released a Request for Proposals seeking watershed restoration project proposals to review and consider for state investment across multiple fund sources. 

The partnership’s State Management Team – including experts from the Maryland departments of Agriculture, Emergency Management, Environment, Natural Resources, and Planning, along with the Critical Area Commission – will select up to five watersheds for a concentrated five year focus of technical and financial assistance. The state anticipates local watershed teams to be inclusive of many partners, including community associations, local government(s), landowners, watershed organizations and other non-profit organizations, and private firms engaged in eligible watershed activities, among others. 

Maryland’s Whole Watershed Act (SB 969/HB 1165) establishes a collaborative and science-based approach to watershed restoration that aims to promote science-based solutions to waterway restoration efforts. The new law will utilize existing state funds to create a new Whole Watershed Fund that will support a five-year pilot program targeting five Maryland watersheds that best represent the state’s diverse land uses, geographies, and impairments. 

“The Whole Watershed Restoration Partnership brings together local governments, nonprofits, and communities and pairs them with state experts and resources to substantially improve the health of a local watershed and with that the Bay,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “Collaborating across fund sources and pursuing cost-effective investments in targeted geographic areas will help local communities meet their environmental goals through this effort.”

A direct response to the Chesapeake Bay Program’s Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee’s Comprehensive Evaluation of System Response (CESR) report, the request for proposals asks applicants to address how they can achieve multiple restoration and conservation goals such as: water quality improvement, increased public access to waterways, new wildlife habitat, fisheries improvement, environmental justice, and increased climate resiliency. 

Selected projects will be overseen by a state management team made up of agency experts to help find efficiencies in project permitting and funding, and to measure project results.

“The Whole Watershed Act is a model of how cooperation across agencies leads to focused conservation efforts,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “This new and meaningful approach demonstrates the commitment the State has towards preserving environmental health.” 

“Water quality restoration is a whole community effort between State, local, federal and non-governmental partners,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland. “Efforts to help restore water quality inevitably help make communities more resilient and mitigate the effects of future disasters, most notably flooding.”

“We now know that an emphasis on environmental improvements in smaller watersheds is key to our strategy for a cleaner Chesapeake Bay,” said Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain. “These projects are a great way to partner with local communities on the green infrastructure projects that reduce flooding, provide more open space, and create a more sustainable environment for all.”

“Working with our state partners across Maryland, the Whole Watershed Fund will result in significant benefits from new job opportunities to Chesapeake Bay restoration goals to better water quality,” said Maryland Department of Planning Secretary Rebecca Flora, AICP. “The Maryland Department of Planning will continue to play a critical role in ensuring the best data on current land uses is available and used to forecast pollution loads associated with past and future development and land use change.”

“Standing at the intersection of our beloved bays and upstream waterways, the Critical Area Commission knows how important connection and collaboration are for clean water and community health,” said Erik Fisher, Chair of Maryland’s Critical Area Commission. “We’re excited to help restoration teams work across lines on a map to achieve equitable and resilient restoration.”

The Request for Proposals, watershed criteria, and resources for watershed evaluation can be reviewed on the DNR Whole Watershed Fund webpage.

After reviewing all proposals, the state management team will select up to five watersheds to include one predominantly urban area; one in a predominantly suburban area; two reducing runoff in a predominantly agricultural area; and one with a collaborative effort with an adjoining state. At least two of the five selected watersheds must be located within and provide benefit to overburdened or underserved communities.

Detectives charge suspect in child pornography distribution and possession case: Charles County Sheriff’s detectives have charged a suspect in connection with the possession and distribution of child pornography. The facts of the case are as follows:

In December of 2023, the Charles County Sheriff's Office received a Cyber tip, which was reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) by a social media platform. The tip outlined a user who was advertising child pornographic files for sale and indicated the pictures were that of a female; the suspect also identified the female by a first and last name. An investigation showed that the user of the account posted the sale of the pictures over 200 times between November 24-27.

After a thorough review of the files, CCSO detectives identified Demetrius Donya Brown, age 27, of Marbury, as the suspect. Detectives executed a search warrant for Brown and his residence, resulting in the recovery of several electronic devices. Brown's devices were downloaded by the CCSO Digital Forensics Unit which found multiple child pornographic video files. Evidence linking Brown to the social media site was also located on Brown's electronic devices. Detectives learned the child named in the files had not yet been identified by NCMEC. Investigators pursued leads and identified the victim as a 16-year-old from a different state. The child's files were leaked in 2022 when they were 14 years of age. Brown submitted a guilty plea on September 26, 2024. He is currently in custody at the Charles County Detention Center awaiting sentencing. Detective Horrocks investigated. 

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Oct. 8, 2024 – The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation advises citizens the Mt. Hope Community Center will be temporarily closed for floor maintenance Saturday, Oct. 12, through Monday, Oct. 14.

Normal hours of operation will resume Tuesday, Oct. 15. The Mt. Hope Community Center is located at 104 Pushaw Station Road in Sunderland.

For updates on Parks & Recreation services, park availability, field closures and more visit Parks & Recreation at www.Facebook.com/CalvertCountyParks and follow @CalvertCountyParksandRec on Instagram.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

CDS Violation: 24-73899
On September 24, 2024, at approximately 3:57 a.m., DFC Hudson responded to a traffic
complaint on Rt. 4 and Duke St. in Prince Frederick. The suspect vehicle was observed driving
erratically on the shoulder. When deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, it fled with deputies in
pursuit. Deputies observed multiple traffic violations as the driver turned its headlights and
taillights off while fleeing. The suspect vehicle came to a rest after hydroplaning and striking a
guardrail on Rt. 4 in the area of Mt. Harmony Lane in Owings. A vehicle search revealed 68.5
grams of cannabis concentrate, a prescription bottle with missing Xanax pills, and $2,627 in US
Currency. The driver, Blake Donovan Albritton, 30 of Upper Marlboro, was transported to the
Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Cannabis Over Civil
Use, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute, and Fleeing and Eluding.

CDS Violation: 24-74640
On September 26, 2024, Detectives with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement
Unit (DEU) were in the area of the Solomons Landing Apartments in Solomons, conducting
proactive surveillance and observed a hand-to-hand drug transaction. Kenneth Eugene Rollins,
Jr., 46 of Solomons, was observed riding a bicycle through the parking lot approaching a
passenger car occupied by Chelsea Lee Hoofnagle, 38 of Lusby, and passenger Daniel Joseph
Leaman, 40 of Lusby. Rollins provided the Hoofnagle narcotics in exchange for cash.
Hoofnagle was observed attempting to swallow the controlled dangerous substance (CDS)
refusing to comply with law enforcement. Detectives recovered a bag of crack cocaine from
Hoofnagle’s mouth. A search of Rollin’s person revealed $204 in US Currency. Rollins,
Hoofnagle, and Leaman were placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County
Detention Center. Rollins was charged with CDS: Distribution of Narcotics and CDS:
Possession-Not Cannabis. Leaman was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis. Hoofnagle
was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 24-75155
On September 28, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the area of Hallowing Point Road. and
Thoroughbred Lane in Prince Frederick, for a traffic complaint involving a driver swerving all
over the road, riding on the shoulder, and running cars off the road. Deputy Hill initiated a traffic
stop in the parking lot of the 7-11 located at 15 Solomons Island Rd. N in Prince Frederick.
Contact was made with the driver, Jerry Allan Campbell, 61 of Prince Frederick. Further
investigation revealed, Campbell was under in influence and unable to safely operate a motor
vehicle. A search of Campbell’s person incident to arrest revealed numerous tan-colored rocks
(suspected heroin) and a metal straw. Campbell was transported to the Calvert County Detention
Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia,
Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance and Driving a Vehicle
While so far Impaired by Drugs and Alcohol.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-73817
On September 23, 2024, Deputy MacWilliams responded to the Harris Teeter located at 10125
Ward Rd in Dunkirk, for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival, contact was made with
Justin Colby Wilson, 37 of no fixed address. Wilson was yelling profanities at patrons in the
store. Wilson was asked to leave the store and was advised he had been trespassed from the
property. Moments later deputies responded to a disorderly call at the Giant in Dunkirk. Contact
was made with Wilson who was being confrontational and yelling profanities at customers.
Wilson was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and
charged with Disorderly Conduct.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-75287
On September 29, 2024, DFC Mister responded to the Prince Frederick Library located at 850
Costley Way in Prince Frederick, for a reported theft. During the investigation, Brandon McNeil
Robinson, 18 of no fixed address, was causing a disturbance amongst civilians while yelling
profanities at deputies on scene. Robison was disturbing the peace and was hindering officers
from completing the investigation. Robinson was arrested and transported to the Calvert County
Detention Center for Disorderly Conduct, Disturbing the Peace, and Obstructing and Hindering.

Theft: 24-74009
On September 24, 2024, DFC Mohler responded to 100 block of Skinners Turn Road in Owings,
for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown white male stole a small political
sign from the victim’s yard. The estimated value of stolen property is $5.00.

Theft: 24-74585
On September 26, 2024, Master Deputy Aurich responded to Self-Storage located at 955
Skinners Turn Road in Owings, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime
between mid-August and September 26, an unknown suspect(s) gained entry to the battery
compartment of the RV and stole two batteries. The estimated value of stolen property is
$800.00.

Theft: 24-74097
On September 24, 2024, DFC Savick responded to the Subway located at 7917 Bayside Road in
Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised while in the store an
unknown suspect(s) stole the victim’s black and teal Ancheer electric bike parked on a brick
pillar outside the establishment. The estimated value of stolen property is $600.00.

Theft: 24-75197
On September 29, 2024, Deputy Madura responded to Fastop located at 8054 Bayside Road in
Chesapeake Beach, for a report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown black male
entered the store, grabbed multiple items and fled on a skateboard without paying for stolen
goods. The suspect was last seen wearing a black Nike sweatshirt, black sweatpants and a gray
beenie hat. The estimated value of stolen property is $8.67.

Trespassing: 24-73989
On September 24, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to Fox Run Shopping Center located at 615
Solomons Island Road N in Prince Frederick, for the reported trespassing. Contact was made with Elaine
Diana Ly Simpson, 41 of Lusby, who had been trespassed indefinitely from the property. Simpson was
transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Trespassing: Private Property. 

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy (SMCJA) celebrated the graduation of 10 correctional officers – two from the Charles County Detention Center – from the Corrections Entrance Level Training Program (CELTP), Session 72, at a ceremony held October 4. The program requires each correctional officer to complete an eleven-week Basic Corrections Academy, which exceeds the state minimum for all correctional officers working in local correctional facilities across Maryland.

"Congratulations to these two outstanding individuals on their graduation from correctional officer training; we are proud to welcome them to our agency, where they will make a significant impact in serving our community,” said Sheriff Troy D. Berry.  

Charles County Detention Center Director Ryan Ross said, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to each of these officers and their families on completing the academy."  "Their commitment to this profession is commendable, and we are truly proud of their decision to serve. We also want to express our gratitude to our exceptional Academy Staff for their dedication in training and preparing these officers for what promises to be a challenging yet rewarding career.”

During the graduation ceremony, SMCJA instructors presented awards to graduates who excelled in different categories: Antonio L. Green (Charles County) received the Scholastic Achievement Award with a 96.29 percent GPA. Johnathan T. Johnson (Charles County) served as the Class Speaker, representing the 10 graduates.

Please join Sheriff Berry, Director Ryan Ross, and the Charles County Sheriff’s Office in congratulating and welcoming:

1. Correctional Officer Antonio L. Green
2. Correctional Officer Johnathan T. Johnson

We also celebrate our partners in Calvert County and St. Mary’s County for their successful completion of the academy. We extend best wishes to all for long and distinguished careers.

Learn more about becoming a Charles County Sheriff’s or Correctional Officer by visiting our website [http://WWW.CCSO.US.%20]WWW.CCSO.US.

The Charles County Detention Center is currently offering a $10,000 sign-on bonus, $5,000 relocation assistance, and a streamlined training process for out-of-state lateral officers who meet the criteria. For more details, click here: https://www.ccso.us/recruiting/career-opportunities/correctional-officer/

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. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Monday, October 14, 2024, in observance of Columbus Day. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

The October 14 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)
• The Animal Adoption & Resource Center

The following SMCG operations will be open on October 14:

• Department of Recreation & Parks indoor programs and facilities
• St. Clements Island Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• Wicomico Shores Golf Course (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• The Riverview Restaurant (8 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) will be installing a culvert under Flat Iron Road in Great Mills, Maryland beginning on or about October 14, 2024. As a result, Flat Iron Road will be closed for approximately 5 days between 20357 Flat Iron Road and 20318 Flat Iron Road. 

A detour plan will be implemented for the duration of the road closure. Drivers are asked to please remain alert for equipment, work crews, and changing traffic patterns. Message boards and signage will be deployed in the area prior to and during the project to serve as a reminder. Please consider alternate travel routes to avoid delays in traffic.

For additional information, please contact John Wise with DPW&T at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3531.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) will offer a Conscious Discipline workshop for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten families on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center, Leonardtown, MD. Local childcare providers and their families are welcome to attend. Conscious Discipline Lead Instructor, Amy Speidel, returns to SMCPS to support families and private providers as we begin a new school year.

Participants will learn research-backed strategies based on the brain science that drives behavior in young children. Language shifts will be shared as participants better understand how to use the adult first-child second strategy to discipline. This highly effective approach is proven to increase self-regulation, sense of safety, connection, empathy, and intrinsic motivation in both children and adults.

Mission BBQ has graciously donated dinner for 100 people, which will be provided for registered participants, beginning at 5:00 p.m. Childcare will not be available.

Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Childcare families may register using the 10/15/2024 Family Conscious Discipline Registration Form. Local childcare providers may receive Core of Knowledge credit hours if registered to attend. Private Providers should register here.

You may contact Ms. Lynn Trehern, SMCPS Early Childhood Instructional Resource Teacher/Coach at pltrehern@smcps.org or call the Department of Equity, Engagement, and Early Access at 301-475-5511 extension 32136 if you have any questions.

The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal is proud to announce its 130th anniversary this month, marking a significant milestone as the oldest State Fire Marshal's Office in the United States. Established in 1894, the Office is also recognized as the second oldest state public safety agency in Maryland, following only the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police, originally known as the State Oyster Police, created in 1868.

One hundred thirty years ago, Governor Frank Brown appointed John J. Jackson as the first Maryland State Fire Marshal following the passage of a law by the state legislature that established the Office. The State's Insurance Department drove this initiative, formed in 1878, with the objective of "checking incendiary fires and aiding in reducing the rate of insurance in the State."

Over the years, the Office of the State Fire Marshal has evolved significantly. Initially an ex officio member of the Insurance Commission, the position was downgraded within the commission after lawmakers deemed it redundant in 1916. However, in 1964, under the leadership of Governor J. Miller Tawes, the Office was revitalized and moved to the newly created State Fire Prevention Commission.

In 1970, the Office transitioned to the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, where it remained for 27 years before becoming a vital part of the Maryland Department of State Police in 1997.

"Our agency is a diverse public safety organization with responsibilities in law enforcement, fire service, and regulatory oversight. Each day, our team upholds our core values of integrity, fairness, and service in all our actions. For more than a century, our Deputy State Fire Marshals have delivered top-tier investigative services in fire and explosion incidents. They have countered racial hatred by infiltrating the Ku Klux Klan, investigated explosive threats against members of our judicial system, and apprehended arsonists responsible for devastating crimes that took innocent lives," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray 

Throughout its history, the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal has played a critical role in safeguarding residents' lives and property. From investigating fires to implementing safety regulations and promoting public education, the Office remains at the forefront of fire safety efforts in the state.

"Our fire engineering and code enforcement staff continue to impact our community, ensuring that our state is a fire-safe place to live, work, and play." stated Mowbray

To help commemorate its anniversary, the agency established a workgroup to gather information, stories, artifacts, and photos for a month-long exhibition at the Maryland State Police Museum in Pikesville this month titled From Obsolescence to Relevance: a 130-year history of the Office of State Fire Marshal.

This exhibition features a self-guided tour where visitors can read about the agency's history, view photographs, and see equipment. Personnel will be on-site to assist and answer any questions about the agency. October is Fire Prevention Month, and this exhibition coincides with it to honor its legacy and further engage with the community on fire safety initiatives. 

"The 130th anniversary is not only a celebration of our rich history but also a testament to our ongoing commitment to fire safety and prevention in Maryland," Mowbray said. "We are dedicated to protecting our communities and ensuring the safety of all Marylanders."

Two students assault another student at La Plata High School: On October 4 at 1:30 p.m., during class transition, one student approached another student at a locker and started hitting them. School staff and a school resource officer were able to intervene; however, another student approached and began hitting the initial student. All students were separated, and the victim was treated by a school nurse. The students involved in the assault face potential charges. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Cpl. Duley at 301-609-3282 ext. 0494.

Two students injured at Wade Elementary School: On October 4, a student at Wade Elementary School purposely jabbed one student in the leg with a pencil and struck another student in the head with a book. The student who was injured in the leg received a penetrating wound that required treatment. The student struck in the head was transported by EMS to a local hospital as a precaution and for further evaluation. In accordance with the law, the student will not be charged due to their age; however, the school resource officer notified the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608.

On September 5, 2024, Stephanie Marie Murphy, 45, of Temple Hills, MD, was arrested in connection with the theft of medication at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. Her arrest followed an ongoing investigation, which began in March 2024 and included the assistance of multiple law enforcement agencies: Maryland State Police, Prince George’s County Police Department, Southern Maryland Intelligence Center (SMIC), and the Charles County Sheriff’s Office. Following her arrest, Murphy was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center and was later released.

As the investigation continued, it was determined that Murphy had misrepresented her identity while using an online platform designed to assist with staffing at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. On September 9, 2024, a Circuit Court arrest warrant was issued, charging the suspect with 25 counts of misrepresentation – registered nurse and 27 counts of practicing registered nursing by fraudulent representation.

On September 26, Murphy voluntarily surrendered to law enforcement and is currently on pretrial release.

Those with information regarding this case are asked to contact Detective Andrew Burgess at Andrew.Burgess@stmaryscountymd.gov or by phone at 301-475-4200, ext. 8041.

Join Charmaine Thompson, the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) chief of instructional technology, on Oct. 23 for a Chat with the Chief.

“Understanding AI: Empowering Parents,” will delve into how artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an integral part of daily lives — including those of students — in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.

“For parents, understanding AI is essential to navigate the challenges and opportunities it presents for their children's education and development,” Thompson said.

Thompson is holding the virtual chat on the Webex platform from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 23, to provide parents with an understanding of AI, its applications and its implications for parenting. The discussion will explore AI and how it works, including the different types and real-world examples of AI.

The webinar will also touch on the impact AI has on children and how it is used to shape education along with its potential benefits and risks to young people.

Thompson will share practical tips parents can use for navigating AI such as setting boundaries, evaluating AI-powered products and fostering digital literacy.

Registration is required to attend the event. To register, click here. To sign up for a free Webex account, visit https://www.webex.com/.

Calvert County Parks & Recreation is excited to announce a free training opportunity in partnership with the U.S. Soccer Foundation for those interested in coaching, mentoring and leading Calvert County youth. The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Coach-Mentor Training program is designed to equip volunteer coaches of any sport with the skills they need to create positive, lasting connections with youth, manage behaviors with empathy and harness the impact of positive group dynamics.

There is no cost to attend. This training is open to all coaches, mentors, volunteers, staff and other youth service leaders in the community. Participants who complete the course will receive a Coach-Mentor Certificate of Completion from the U.S. Soccer Foundation.

The training will be offered as two in person sessions, one live virtual session and one self-paced online course:

In-person Live Training

·         Where: Wisner Hall at Kings Landing Park

(3255 Kings Landing Road, Huntingtown)

·         When: Sunday, Oct. 20 from 7-9 p.m. (Activity #14026)

Monday, Oct. 21 from 1-3 p.m. (Activity #14027)

·         Register: Online though Xplor

Virtual Live Training

·         When: Sunday, Nov. 24, 7-9 p.m.

·         Register: Online through Zoom

Self-paced Online Training

·         When: Can be accessed anytime

·         Register: Online through U.S. Soccer Foundation website

“Volunteer coaches are the backbone of our youth sport programs,” said Bob Branham, director of Calvert County Parks & Recreation. “Through this program, our volunteers will be better equipped to provide a safe, fun and inclusive environment where children can grow both on and off the field.”

The Coach-Mentor Training program is based on the Coach-Mentor Blueprint, a sports-based mentoring framework with the goal to provide coaches, mentors and other youth service leaders with a step-by-step approach to positively impact the physical, social and emotional health of the youth they serve. Although this training is sports-based, it is applicable across a variety of youth development programming, incorporating proven practices for creating an inclusive environment where every young person feels welcome and supported.

For updates on Parks & Recreation services, park availability, field closures and more visit Parks & Recreation at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyParks/ and follow Parks & Recreation on Instagram @calvertcountyparksandrec.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

On Tuesday, Oct. 1, Charles Rice, Planning Director, Cathy Thompson, Assistant Chief of Planning, Department of Planning and Growth Management, and Kelly Robertson-Slagle, Director, Economic Development led a briefing on Bill 2024-(07) Zoning Text Amendment #23-176 Aviation Business Park and Bill 2024-(08) Zoning Map Amendment #23-02 Aviation Business Park. The amendments would rezone certain properties around the Maryland Airport to either Aviation Business Park Zone or the Light Industrial Zone. The Commissioners received the Planning Commission’s recommendation and voted to schedule a Public Hearing on Oct. 29, 2024.

Commissioners also held a work session on the 2025 Preliminary State Legislative Proposal Package. The session, led by Danielle Mitchell, Assistant Deputy County Attorney, sought to finalize further the package of legislative proposals to be sent to Annapolis during the 2025 Maryland General Assembly Session starting in January. Commissioners approved seven legislative proposals, including a proposal to bring a ferry to Indian Head.

Briefings

·       Jacob Dyer, Acting Director of Fiscal and Administrative Services, shared a briefing on the Sheriff’s Office Retirement Plan (SORP) Fixed Income Assets. The consultant presented several recommendations to support the further diversification of investments for the fund. Commissioners voted to accept the recommendations.

·       Jacob Dyer, Acting Director, and TaTanya Bowman, Assistant Chief of Budget of the Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, presented a briefing on the 2024 Charles County bond issue. The presentation proposed a bond size of $73 million to support the County’s Capital Improvement Program. Commissioners voted to set a public hearing for Oct. 29 at 6 p.m.

·       Fredina James, former Local Care Team Convener; Laura Gustafson, Deputy Director; Jessica Gross, Local Management Board Specialist; and Sapreen Khalaifeh, Local Management Board Supervisor, Department of Community Services, held a briefing on the Summer Youth Employment Program during fiscal 2025.

·       Sam Drury, Deputy Director, and Elena Gilroy, Mallows Bay Operations Manager, Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism, provided a briefing on updates on the Mallows Bay Visitors Center Feasibility Study.

• Jenifer Ellin, Acting Deputy County Administrator, Renesha Miles, Chief Equity Officer, and Doria Fleisher, Community Engagement Coordinator, held a briefing on an update regarding Collaborative Community Improvement Projects. Presenters recommended that the Equity Emphasis Area located in the Bryans Road/Indian Head area be selected as the pilot community for this project. Commissioners voted to approve this area as the selected community. 
• Charles Rice, Planning Director, and Tetchiana Anderson, Planner III, Department of Planning and Growth Management, led a briefing on Proposed Bill 2024-06 Zoning Text Amendment 22-174 Mixed-Use Zone. The revision would incorporate housing for “specific populations” into the Mixed-Use Zone and allow this type of residential use to replace commercial uses. The Commissioners voted to hold an additional public hearing at a date to be determined.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A budget amendment increase of $80,580 to pay for the procurement of a stake body truck that was ordered but has not yet been received.
• A  fiscal 2025 intercategory budget transfer request of $1.5 million for the Charles County Board of Education.
• A budget amendment request of $172,250 and a change order of $172,245.21 for the Mattawoman Flow Equalization Basin project.
• A request for funds of up to $1,000 for the Interfaith Commission Clergy Breakfast.

Viewing option of the meeting and the public hearing: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: Oct. 8-9

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

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office held the final session and graduation celebration for the 2024 Citizens Academy tonight, marking the culmination of an informative and engaging eight-week program.

Throughout the academy, participants traveled to the Sheriff’s District Stations, toured key facilities, including the Emergency Communications Center, Detention Center, and Crime Lab, and visited the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy. The curriculum covered various topics, including traffic safety, collision reconstruction, and special operations.

The academy provided county residents with an in-depth look at law enforcement operations, allowing them to ask questions, share insights, and gain a greater understanding of the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sheriff's Office congratulates the following participants on successfully completing the academy: Daryl Bagley, Timothy Herbert, John Lee, Tegan Leonard, Kevin Nimmerrichter, Leonard Nimmerrichter, Kimberly Rosado, Joan Smith, Marta Topolski, Brian Small, and Guy Leonard (not pictured).

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding NAS Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place October 7-8, 2024 from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Pilots at NAS Pax River will be conducting Field Carrier Landing Practices (FCLPs). FCLPs are simulated carrier landings conducted to prepare the pilot to land safely on an aircraft carrier. The practices consist of series of touch-and-go maneuvers where airspeed, altitude, and power are precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach a ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our personnel and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations.

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County have ordered Maryland State and St. Mary’s County flags to be flown at half-staff in St. Mary’s County, in honor and remembrance of the Honorable Judge Michael J. Stamm, who passed away on October 2, 2024.

Judge Stamm, who served as the County Administrative Judge for the St. Mary’s County Circuit Court since 2018, dedicated nearly two decades of his life to the judiciary. First appointed as Associate Judge in 2006, he played a pivotal role in shaping the local legal landscape, particularly through his leadership in the Juvenile Drug Court Program. Judge Stamm was also a tireless advocate for problem-solving courts, foster care improvements, and juvenile justice reform, contributing to several key committees and initiatives across the state.

“Judge Stamm's commitment to justice, especially for the youth of our community, was unparalleled. His dedication and leadership will be greatly missed,” said Commissioner President James Randy Guy. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time."

State of Maryland and St. Mary’s County flags will remain lowered in St. Mary’s County until sunset on the day of his interment, honoring his decades of service to the people of St. Mary’s County and the State of Maryland.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (October 3, 2024) – At approximately 4:10 p.m., on October 2, 2024, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office observed a GMC Yukon traveling southbound on MD Route 235 in Hollywood, where Davione Syheme Mason, 23, of Lexington Park, was a passenger. Mason is known to deputies and wanted on an open warrant for attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, reckless endangerment, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, handgun on person, and possession of a loaded handgun.

While watching the vehicle, deputies witnessed the GMC suddenly accelerate forward, strike the rear bumper of another car, and flee the scene. A short distance later, deputies attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the driver of the GMC failed to stop, leading to a vehicle pursuit until the driver lost control of the vehicle, traveled off the roadway, and into the front yard of a private residence in the 22000 block of Old Rolling Road in California. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Tyquan Samuel Wills, 25, also of Lexington Park, and Mason, fled on foot. No injuries were reported.

After an extensive search, Mason was located in a nearby residential area and taken into custody without further incident.

Deputies located Wills in a nearby business area as he was trying to flee while hiding in a Chrysler sedan driven by Azse Ktemaque Hawkins, 36, of Prince Frederick. Following a traffic stop by deputies, Hawkins was found to be driving under the influence and was arrested.

During the subsequent investigation, Wills was found in possession of a significant quantity of suspected cocaine and related paraphernalia. He is charged with one count each of CDS possession - not marijuana and CDS possession with intent to distribute, two counts of CDS possession of paraphernalia, one count of fleeing and eluding by vehicle, one count of fleeing and eluding by foot, two counts of hit-and-run with property damage, and related traffic violations.

The three suspects were transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown.

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman joined Gov. Wes Moore and Treasurer Dereck Davis for Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting to approve more than $3.6 billion for 75 initiatives and projects throughout Maryland. 

The Board of Public Works approved a $2.75 million settlement following a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation into discriminatory hiring practices affecting entry-level African Americans and women applying to become troopers with the Maryland State Police (MSP). 

This past March, the DOJ notified MSP of its intention to file a lawsuit alleging violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in hiring of entry-level applicants. The DOJ alleged that the written test used by MSP had an adverse impact on African-American applicants, and the physical fitness adversely impacted female applicants. 

As part of the settlement agreement and consent decree, MSP will provide monetary damages to applicants identified by the DOJ as having been subject to disparate impact, and develop, validate, and implement new tests that are fully compliant with Title VII. 

In all, the BPW approved 75 items, representing a total State expenditure of $3,668,654,715.96. A comprehensive list of items approved are as follows: 

• Approved grant agreements for 5 recipients for 5 projects located in 2 counties and Baltimore City with a total value of $2,700,000. 

• 6 items awarding $7,791,440.85 to prime certified small business primes. 

• 5 items awarding $23,149,206.36 to certified minority business enterprise primes. 

• 12 items awarded with established participation goals for minority business enterprises. 

• 2 items awarded with established participation goals for veteran-owned small business enterprises. 

The next meeting of the Board of Public Works is October 16. 

On September 26, St. John Properties broke ground on Berry Pointe Business Community, marking a significant milestone for Charles County, Maryland. The Charles County Board of County Commissioners and other local and state leaders celebrated the launch of this important development located on Berry Road (MD 228) at Sun Valley Drive in Waldorf, Maryland, 20603.

Set to become the largest office, flex, R&D, and retail development in the county’s history, Berry Pointe will feature 61,880 square feet of office space, 551,520 square feet of flexible R&D space, and 37,850 square feet of supporting retail. Once completed, the development is expected to generate over 2,100 jobs, contributing significantly to the county’s economic growth and vitality.

Charles County Commissioner President Reuben Collins said, “Berry Pointe is not just another development—it represents the future of business infrastructure in our county. Through its innovative 'flex' concept, this project will set next-generation standards for commercial spaces in Charles County. By offering a range of spaces that can adapt to a variety of industries—from office to industrial and technology—this development meets the evolving needs of modern businesses."

Berry Pointe is designed to meet the evolving needs of industries across various sectors, including technology, industrial, and office-based businesses. The flexibility of the spaces ensures that companies from diverse fields can establish operations within the community, creating a dynamic environment that adapts to market changes and business growth.

"Berry Pointe Business Park is not only a testament to the confidence that businesses have in Charles County, but also a catalyst for future growth," said Economic Development Director Kelly Robertson-Slagle. "This project will provide the infrastructure and innovation that our local businesses need to thrive and attract new companies to the region. St. John Properties’ investment in Berry Pointe represents a long-term commitment to the economic prosperity of our county."

Berry Pointe Business Park is projected to support more than 2,100 jobs across various industries at full build-out. These jobs will span high-tech, light industrial, and administrative sectors, creating employment opportunities and strengthening the county’s workforce. Additionally, the development is expected to significantly enhance the county’s tax base, supporting critical public services such as education, public safety, and infrastructure improvements.

In line with Charles County’s long-term vision, Berry Pointe is designed with sustainability and community impact in mind. St. John Properties ensures long-term quality and care by maintaining ownership of the properties it develops, making Berry Pointe an enduring asset for businesses and residents.

About St. John Properties

St. John Properties is one of the nation’s largest privately held commercial real estate firms. With over 24 million square feet of commercial space in its portfolio, the company is known for its innovative development projects and long-term commitment to the communities it serves.

Photos: https://charlescountygovernment.smugmug.com/Board-of-County-Commissioner-Events/Berry-Pointe-Groundbreaking

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown on Monday, Sept. 30, following a report of a concealed makeshift weapon found inside a cell.

Upon investigation, deputies recovered a wooden knife, and incarcerated individual Demetrius Rashud Puifory, 46, was arrested and charged with possession of a weapon while in confinement and possession of contraband in a place of confinement.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office prioritizes the safety of all individuals within the facility.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is pleased to announce the launch of the Local Business Preference Program, effective Oct. 1, 2024. This program is designed to support local businesses by providing a competitive advantage when bidding on county procurement contracts.

The Local Business Preference Program offers a percentage-based preference to Calvert County-based businesses in the bidding process, giving resident businesses a 5% deduction on their bid price when competing for contracts valued below $30,000, and similarly, 5% up to $25,000 on contracts over $30,000. The program applies to both formal and informal solicitations for goods and services by the county.

To qualify, a business must have its principal office located in Calvert County. Businesses operating outside the county are considered non-resident businesses and are not eligible for the preference.

The program does not apply when federal or state law prohibits local preferences, or when contracts are awarded through cooperative agreements or emergency purchases.

The Local Business Preference Program is the culmination of a multi-year effort by the BOCC to ensure local businesses have a fair opportunity in the competitive bidding process. From 2022 to 2024, nonresident businesses prevailed in both participation and the amount awarded in county contracts, highlighting the need for a policy to support local entrepreneurs.

The program was developed with input from members of the public, as well as local business groups, including the Calvert County Chamber of Commerce and the Calvert County Minority Business Alliance, to ensure it aligns with the needs and concerns of the local business community. The BOCC approved the program on Sept. 24, 2024.

Any increased costs associated with implementing the program are expected to be offset by the increased tax revenues generated from thriving local businesses, including personal property and income taxes.

For more information about the Local Business Preference Program, please visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/LocalPreference or contact the Department of Finance & Budget at 410-535-1600 or procurement@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.

The Charles County Department of Emergency Services would like to announce the relocations of the Animal Control Offices and the False Alarm office. Charles County Animal Control has moved to 9375 Chesapeake St, Suite #123, La Plata, MD, 20646. Office hours remain 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Residents can report lost pets by calling the Animal Care Center at 301-932-1713 or the Humane Society of Charles County at 301-645-8181. To report any animal concerns and/or violations, residents are reminded to call the Charles County Sheriff’s Office at 301-645-8181.

The Charles County False Alarm Reduction Unit will move to 10665 Stonehaven Place, 2^nd Floor, White Plains, MD, 20695 in mid-October. Residents can visit the office to pay false alarm fines and renewal fees. Fines and fees can also be paid online by clicking here. The office can be reached at 301-609-3404 or by email at faru@charlescountymd.gov.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, a Charles County jury, after a 3-day trial, convicted Katravien Tyrieus Vercher, 25, of Waldorf, of five counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor and one count of Third-Degree Sexual Offense.

On March 22, 2023, officers with the Charles County Sherriff’s Office responded to a residence in Waldorf for the report of child sexual abuse. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the juvenile victims’ mother. The mother reported that Vercher sexually abused three of her children over the course of three years.  

An investigation revealed that Vercher moved in with the victims and their mother at their Waldorf residence in 2020. Vercher began abusing the victims within a few months of moving in. The victims were 5, 6, and 10 years old when the incidents first began. In the first incident, Vercher asked the 10-year-old victim if she wanted to play a game, and she responded yes. Vercher then began making sexual advances toward the victim. The sexual contact with the 10-year-old victim continued repeatedly over the course of three years and progressed in nature. He also came up with a code phrase to use with the victim when they were around other people, indicating he wanted sexual contact.

Vercher engaged in sexual acts with the other two minor victims as well. On one occasion, the two youngest victims were present during the sexual act at the same time.

One of the victims eventually reported the abuse to their mother, who then called the police.

During the course of the investigation, Vercher admitted to making comments about the 10-year-old victim’s appearance and being attracted to what she was wearing. He also admitted to slapping her buttocks.

A sentencing date for Vercher has been set for December 16, 2024. He faces 115 years in prison.

Effective Jan. 2, 2025, Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) will implement an approved moratorium for two specific address blocks in the current Arthur Middleton Elementary School zone. Superintendent of Schools Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D., approved the moratorium last week to help alleviate overcrowding at Middleton.

The moratorium will be in place Jan. 2, 2025, through the end of the 2024-2025 school year for Block 2643 in the Gleneagles South and Stone Haven neighborhoods, and Block 2711 in the Highlands neighborhood and areas along Demarr Road. These blocks are in areas located off St. Charles Parkway in White Plains that are experiencing rapid growth. Any student moving to these blocks on or after Jan. 2, 2025, will be registered to attend Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary School for the remainder of the 2024-2025 school year.

Effective with the opening of Margaret Jamieson Thornton Elementary School in August 2025, students living in these blocks will attend the new school including those that currently attend Middleton. Any new student who moves into Block 2643 or Block 2711 and registers for CCPS after Jan. 2, 2025, through the end of the current school year will attend Dr. Brown and then begin at Thornton in August 2025.

The current enrollment at Middleton is 771 students, which is 264 students over the building’s state-rated capacity (SRC) of 507 students. Current enrollment at Dr. Brown, which is located about a mile from Middleton’s campus and is also located within the Carrington community of St. Charles, is 398 students. Dr. Brown’s SRC is 493 students, which leaves space for 95 additional students.  

The moratorium will ensure class sizes remain stable. To manage some of the rapid growth at Middleton, CCPS has added six relocatable classrooms to the school campus and is converting some media center space to accommodate an additional third-grade class. However, these additions are not factored into the SRC for Middleton.

CCPS will coordinate transportation to Dr. Brown for any new students with families moving into the two identified moratorium blocks in January 2025. The moratorium only affects future growth in these blocks through the end of the 2024-2025 school year, since students living in these areas will attend Thornton next school year.

CCPS has communicated the details of the moratorium to the staffs at Dr. Brown and Middleton and are in the process of updating parents and the Charles County community. Upon registering a child for school in these two blocks after Jan. 2, 2025, the CCPS registration system Synergy will default the student’s attendance zone to Dr. Brown Elementary School.

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement regarding Iran’s recent attacks on Israel:

“Today’s rocket attacks serve as yet more undeniable evidence of Iran’s support for Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other proxies in the region. These deliberate strikes targeting civilian populations in Israel are deeply concerning, and I continue to closely monitor this situation. It is clear that Iran must step back and halt this dangerous escalation. A wider regional war serves no one’s interest.

“The Biden-Harris administration, which has reaffirmed our unwavering support for Israel’s right to defend itself against those who seek to erase the Jewish state, has taken decisive steps to protect U.S. forces and diplomatic personnel across the region, and I commend their ongoing commitment to doing whatever is necessary to ensure their security and safety. My commitment to supporting Israel as it defends itself against Iran and its proxies remains unbreakable.”

NAS Patuxent River will close Cedar Point Road in the vicinity of Cedar Point Beach for equipment movement Wednesday Oct. 2, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Drivers transiting to Atlantic Test Ranges (ATR) will have to access ATR from the south during this time.

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 CSMC then presented proclamations in recognition of Case Management Recognition Week, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and World Architecture Day.

For their main agenda item, the Commissioners approved modifying the 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan by incorporating a mandatory distribution provision for inactive, terminated employee accounts with balances less than $7,000.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the request from the State’s Attorney to eliminate four positions for the creation of three positions: Assistant State's Attorney I, Deputy Chief of Staff, and Investigator.

The Commissioners wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The CSMC will reconvene at 6 p.m. this evening for a joint public meeting with the St. Mary’s County Legislative Delegation to consider legislative proposals for the 2025 session.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room (1^st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown). CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding NAS Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place October 2-10, 2024 from 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Pilots at NAS Pax River will be conducting Field Carrier Landing Practices (FCLPs). FCLPs are simulated carrier landings conducted to prepare the pilot to land safely on an aircraft carrier. The practices consist of series of touch-and-go maneuvers where airspeed, altitude, and power are precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach a ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our personnel and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations.

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

CDS Violation: 24-72055 On September 17, 2024, DFC Plant initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for multiple traffic violations in the area of Heritage Blvd. and Traditional Way in Prince Frederick. Upon making contact with the driver, Melissa Anne Quillen, 38 of Leonardtown, Quillen advised she did not have her driver’s license in her possession. Further investigation revealed K9 Atlas conducted an open-air sniff of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert for narcotics. A vehicle search revealed a lock box containing 5 metal bowls with heroin residue and cotton balls, two foil folds with burnt heroin residue, a used needle, and other drug paraphernalia. Quillen was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. 

CDS Violation: 24-72503 On September 18, 2024, Deputy MacWilliams initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle with stolen tags in the area of Rt. 2 and Kent Road in Sunderland. Contact was made with the occupants, driver Joseph Jose Brown, 57 of Sunderland, and passenger Tusheena Nicole Brooks, 34 of Huntingtown. Further investigation revealed a plastic tube with two rock like substances (suspected crack cocaine) and a plastic bag with a white rock like substance were located inside the vehicle. Brown was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Theft: Less than $100 from a Motor Vehicle. Brooks was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis. 

CDS Violation: 24-72475 On September 18, 2024, Detectives with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle after observing multiple traffic violations along Fairground Road in Prince Frederick. Upon making contact with the driver, Barbara Ann Magruder, 46 of Prince Frederick, a bag containing Alprazolam was observed in plain view. Magruder advised she had just exchanged pills with a female identified as Kimberly Marie Hamm in a red Pontiac. A search of Magruder’s vehicle revealed a cut plastic straw with residue, a dollar bill containing a blue powder, and a clear plastic Ziploc style bag containing a white residue. Magruder was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Distribution, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics. Moments later, detectives observe the suspect’s red Pontiac to have a cracked windshield obstructing the driver’s view. A traffic stop was initiated on the Pontiac in the area of Safeway gas station located at 240 West Dares Beach Rd. in Prince Frederick. Contact was made with the occupants, driver William O’Brian Kennedy, 45 of Chesapeake Beach, and passenger Kimberly Marie Hamm, 44 of Chesapeake Beach. Investigation revealed Hamm met with Magruder and exchanged pills. A K9 search of the vehicle revealed a pill bottle of Alprazolam (the same pills seized from Magruder), 36 Ambien pills, a suboxone strip, a cut straw with white residue, 2 Oxycodone pills and 3 cell phones. A search of Kennedy revealed a cut plastic straw as well as a plastic container containing a white powdery residue (suspected Oxycodone). Kennedy was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis. Hamm was transported and charged with CDS: Distribution, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 24-73016 On September 20, 2024, DFC Hendrickson responded to the Walgreens located at 355 Market Square Drive in Prince Frederick, for the report of a CDS Violation. Upon arrival, contact was made with Christina Lynne Worley, 61 of no fixed address. Worley was observed laying in the bushes huffing from cans of paint. Worley was advised to stop huffing and refused to comply, then continued to abuse the can. Worley was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charge with CDS- Inhaling a Harmful Substance and Failure to Obey a Reasonable/ Lawful order of a Law Enforcement Officer.

Theft: 24-71757 On September 16, 2024, Deputy Gadwill responded to Rt. 4 and Rt. 260 near the Calvert/Anne Arundel County line, for the report of a stolen tags. The suspect vehicle was located on Rt. 260 near Cox Road and a traffic stop was initiated. Contact was made with the driver, Jennifer Leigh Johnson, 50 of Montgomery Village. Johnson was unable to provide a valid registration card for the vehicle. Johnson was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Theft less than $100 from a Motor Vehicle, Selling/Possessing a Stolen Manufacturer Number, and Possessing a Serial Number for Fraud Purposes. 

Theft: 24-72445 On September 18, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the Weis located at 750 Prince Frederick Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown black female entered the store and placed various items in a cart, proceeded to self-checkout, passing all points of sale without making payment. The suspect left the store with one container of crab meat and a lanyard. The estimated value of stolen property is $124.95.

Theft: 24-72461 On September 18, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the Weis located at 750 Prince Frederick Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for the report of a wanted person. Upon arrival, contact was made with a Gina Patricia Kennedy, 35 of Owings. Kennedy was known to have multiple active warrants for her arrest. Kennedy had opened a box of face cream and began using it while in the store. The estimated value of stolen property is $29.69. Kennedy was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Theft less than $100.00 and served her open warrants.

Theft: 24-73244 On September 21, 2024, Deputy Deinert responded to 6700 block of Ben Creek Road in St. Leonard, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on September 20, unknown suspect(s) stole the victim’s towable tube from their dock. The tube is described as a Giant Bubba towable tube, yellow in color, bearing red and green decals, with “WOW” in bold letters. The estimated value of stolen property is unknown at this time. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) is announcing changes to bow hunting access on county-leased acreage at the Elms Beach property.

Effective immediately, hunting is no longer permitted on the 85 acres of land leased by St. Mary’s County from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), located at 19350 Back Door Road in Lexington Park, MD. DNR has discontinued the pilot bow hunting program and withdrawn permission for hunting in this area.

Hunters and local organizations with permits for this area have been notified directly. “No Hunting” signs have been posted to ensure public awareness of updated restrictions. While hunting is no longer allowed on the acres leased by the county, hunting remains available on the 545 acres of the Elms property managed directly by DNR. For information on public DNR hunting lands, visit https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/publiclands/wmasouthern.aspx.

St. Mary’s County remains committed to the long-term use of the leased acreage for environmental education and expanding public access to waterfront recreation. Additional improvements at the Elms property are progressing through the approval process, and SMCG looks forward to continuing to enhance opportunities for outdoor education and recreation for the community. Residents are encouraged to learn more and view the Elms Beach Mater Plan online at https://www.stmaryscountymd.gov/docs/elmsbeachmasterplan.pdf.

A map of the area showing where hunting is now prohibited is included with this announcement for reference. For more information, please contact our Department of Recreation and Parks via email to webtrac@stmaryscountymd.gov or by calling (301) 475-4200 ext. 1800.

St. Mary

Posted About One Year Ago

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 30, 2024) – Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to an animal cruelty complaint at approximately 8:09 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the intersection of northbound Route 5 and Route 242 in Morganza. A caller reported seeing an individual in a silver SUV, possibly a Toyota, throwing several kittens—eight or nine—from the vehicle.

 

Upon arrival, deputies discovered one deceased kitten at the scene but were unable to locate any others.

 

The Sheriff’s Office is requesting anyone who may have been traveling in this area at that time and may have witnessed this incident to contact Deputy First Class Nicholas Hill at 301-475-4200, ext. 8078, or by email at Nicholas.Hill@stmaryscountymd.gov.

 

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. In the message block, type "Tip239" and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

 

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.