Bowhunting continues through Jan. 31, plus primitive hunt

Photo by Duane Tucker, submitted to the 2016 DNR Photo Contest.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will open the archery hunting season for white-tailed and sika deer on Sept. 5. The season runs through Jan. 31, 2026 with several breaks for muzzleloader and firearms season. 

In addition, the fourth annual Primitive Deer Hunt Days from Feb. 2 – 4, 2026 offer archers using vertical longbows and vertical recurve bows a few more days afield.

Multiple Sundays are open to archery hunting in most counties, including on some public lands. Hunters should consult the 2025-2026 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping for additional information on specific dates and closures in their region.

“As the weather cools and leaves begin to change color, hunters in Maryland have a great opportunity to get outdoors with archery equipment in hand,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer said. “The archery season is the first chance a deer hunter gets in the 2025-26 season to pursue a deer and be a vital part of deer management in Maryland.” 

The antlerless archery white-tailed deer bag limits differ between deer management regions. In Region A, comprising Western Maryland, up to two antlerless white-tailed deer may be harvested during archery season, and no more than two total for all weapon seasons combined. Only one antlerless white-tailed deer per day may be harvested in Region A. An additional antlerless white-tailed deer may be harvested in Region A during the Primitive Deer Hunt Days.

In Region B, the antlerless white-tailed deer archery limit is 15, except for in the Urban/Suburban Deer Management Zone, where the archery antlerless limit is now unlimited. This zone comprises Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties.

The statewide antlered white-tailed deer bag limit is two with no more than one taken in any weapon season. A single Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp may be purchased to allow a hunter to harvest two antlered deer in the same weapon season or a third antlered deer in the weapon season if they have not taken an antlered deer. Regardless of the Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp, no more than 2 antlered deer may be harvested in Region A and no more than one antlered deer may be harvested per weapon season in Region A. For more information about the Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp please see the 2025-2026 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping.

An antler-point restriction remains in effect for white-tailed deer. Hunters may harvest one antlered white-tailed deer within the yearly bag limit that does not meet the requirement of having at least three points on one antler. Any additional antlered white-tailed deer taken within the established bag limit must meet the minimum point restriction. Licensed junior hunters and apprentice license holders who are 16 or younger are exempt from this restriction.

Hunters intending to pursue sika deer are reminded that they must now purchase a sika hunting stamp in addition to the archery stamp. The sika deer archery season bag limit is three with no more than one being antlered. An antlered sika is defined as a deer with at least one antler visible above the hairline. The sika deer archery season is open in every county.

Hunters should report deer taken with a long, compound, or recurve bow as harvested with a vertical bow when checking in their deer. Crossbow hunters should register their deer as taken with a crossbow. This information helps biologists collect information on preferences and trends in how deer are harvested.

Hunters should carefully inspect all tree stands and always wear a full-body safety harness while in the stand and while climbing in or out. The department strongly recommends using a sliding knot, commonly known as a prusik knot, attached to a line that is secured above the stand that allows the hunter to be safely tethered to the tree as soon as they leave the ground.

New this year, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources has introduced an updated online licensing system, MD Outdoors, including a new free mobile app of the same name. The system provides an easier-to-navigate interface and simplifies renewal. Licenses and stamps may be purchased through the licensing system (online or via the app), at a licensing agent, or by calling the department’s Licensing and Registration Service at 866-344-8889. 

Hunters are encouraged to help others by donating deer taken in Maryland to food banks. A state tax credit offers hunters an incentive for donated deer. Other local or state programs are also available so hunters should check with their deer processors.

The Calvert County Department of Community Resources, Office on Aging, announces renovations to the Calvert Pines Senior Center will begin this week. The center is scheduled to remain open during the renovation process, which is anticipated to take six months.

Congregate and Home Delivered Meals are scheduled to continue as normal. Some classes and programs may be impacted. Residents are encouraged to monitor the Calvert County Office on Aging Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyOfficeonAging or call Calvert Pines Senior Center at 410-535-4606. Calvert Pines Senior Center is located at 450 W. Dares Beach Rd. in Prince Frederick.

We thank residents for their patience while the facility is updated to better serve the community.

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.

[Thursday, Aug. 28] The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for the month of September: 

Monday, Sept. 1 (Labor Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville are closed.
• The Charles County Landfill, all recycling centers, and the Piney Church Road Mulch Facility are closed.
• Curbside recycling and yard waste collection will be delayed one day for the remaining week, Tuesday, Sept. 2, through Saturday, Sept. 6.
• VanGO services will not operate.
• Port Tobacco Recreation Center, Elite Gymnastics, Waldorf Senior Recreational Center, and all school-based community centers are closed.
• The following indoor pools will be open for open swim from noon to 5 p.m.: Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center and North Point. Lackey pool will be closed. 

Operating status for other County-Affiliated agencies:

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

• Charles County Public Schools: www.ccboe.com

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

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – The Maryland State Police urge all motorists to prioritize safety during Labor Day weekend and to avoid impaired, distracted, and aggressive driving to protect yourself and others on the road.

Maryland State Troopers from all 23 barracks across the state will conduct high-visibility patrols from Friday, August 29 to Sunday, August 31. The State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort (SPIDRE) team – a specialized unit trained to identify impaired drivers—will also work to reduce impaired driving-related injuries and deaths.

Maryland State Police initiatives are designed to prevent dangerous driving behaviors and to save lives. Initiatives can include partnering with allied law enforcement and state agencies to provide enforcement and community outreach via social media. Among the planned initiatives:

• Eastern Region: Troopers from the Maryland State Police Berlin, Centreville, Easton, Princess Anne, and Salisbury barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along U.S. Routes 13, 301, 50, 404, Maryland Route 413, and throughout their respective counties.
• Central Region: Troopers from the Maryland State Police College Park, Forestville, Golden Ring, Rockville, Waterloo, and Westminster barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along Interstates 495, 70, Maryland 210, and throughout their respective counties.
• Western Region: Troopers from the Maryland State Police Cumberland, Frederick, Hagerstown, and McHenry barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along U.S. Routes 40, 65, Interstates 81, 70, and throughout their respective counties.
• Northern Region: Troopers from the Bel Air, JFK Memorial Highway, and North East barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along U.S. Route 40, Maryland 272, areas known to have a higher number of impaired driving crashes and throughout their respective counties. 
• Southern Region: Troopers from the Maryland State Police Annapolis, Glen Burnie, La Plata, Leonardtown, and Prince Frederick barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along U.S. Route 50, Interstates 97, 695 and throughout their respective counties.

Increased enforcement efforts are funded by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office. The SPIDRE Team is funded by a grant from the Maryland Highway Safety Office.                                                     

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – The Maryland State Police urge all motorists to prioritize safety during Labor Day weekend and to avoid impaired, distracted, and aggressive driving to protect yourself and others on the road.

Maryland State Troopers from all 23 barracks across the state will conduct high-visibility patrols from Friday, August 29 to Sunday, August 31. The State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort (SPIDRE) team – a specialized unit trained to identify impaired drivers—will also work to reduce impaired driving-related injuries and deaths.

Maryland State Police initiatives are designed to prevent dangerous driving behaviors and to save lives. Initiatives can include partnering with allied law enforcement and state agencies to provide enforcement and community outreach via social media. Among the planned initiatives:

• Eastern Region: Troopers from the Maryland State Police Berlin, Centreville, Easton, Princess Anne, and Salisbury barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along U.S. Routes 13, 301, 50, 404, Maryland Route 413, and throughout their respective counties.
• Central Region: Troopers from the Maryland State Police College Park, Forestville, Golden Ring, Rockville, Waterloo, and Westminster barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along Interstates 495, 70, Maryland 210, and throughout their respective counties.
• Western Region: Troopers from the Maryland State Police Cumberland, Frederick, Hagerstown, and McHenry barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along U.S. Routes 40, 65, Interstates 81, 70, and throughout their respective counties.
• Northern Region: Troopers from the Bel Air, JFK Memorial Highway, and North East barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along U.S. Route 40, Maryland 272, areas known to have a higher number of impaired driving crashes and throughout their respective counties. 
• Southern Region: Troopers from the Maryland State Police Annapolis, Glen Burnie, La Plata, Leonardtown, and Prince Frederick barracks will conduct high visibility enforcement along U.S. Route 50, Interstates 97, 695 and throughout their respective counties.

Increased enforcement efforts are funded by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office. The SPIDRE Team is funded by a grant from the Maryland Highway Safety Office.                                                     

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman joined Governor Wes Moore and Chief Deputy Treasurer Jon Martin in approving more than $787 million in state expenditures during Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting.  Contracts and spending approved included $24,250,000 for 25 projects through the Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative, National Capital Strategic Economic Development Fund, and Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Fund for Fiscal Year 2026. Comptroller Lierman applauded the investment that will support increased housing and community development opportunities. 

“These are the kinds of investments that build safer cities,” Comptroller Lierman shared, pointing to decisions by the Maryland General Assembly to create the Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative after the unrest in Baltimore in 2015, and other funds soon after. “Statewide leaders recognized that for Baltimore to reach its full potential, it needed this kind of investment after years of disinvestment. Revitalizing properties, rehabbing the vacant homes, rebuilding wealth in the city, is a much better use of our precious tax dollars than deploying armed forces. This work creates a broadening tax base, housing for middle-income families and workers, and long-term prosperity.” 

Comptroller Lierman voted against one-year temporary extensions for three capital grants and loans, citing the ample time provided to encumber the original funding and present funding restraints. The extensions were approved with a vote of 2-1.  

Comptroller Lierman also voted against a request from the Department of Information Technology to award eight firms a work-order-based contract to provide digital services and agile development support to modernize Maryland's digital infrastructure. Comptroller Lierman acknowledged the importance of the work covered by the contract but cited concerns about the contract vehicle and decreased opportunities for businesses headquartered in Maryland to compete for the same work. The contract was also approved with a vote of 2-1. 

In all, the Board of Public Works approved 116 items, totaling $787,696,527.03, including: 

• Grant agreements for 17 recipients for 17 projects located in nine counties and Baltimore City, with a total value $8,102,823.
• 10 items awarding $7,538,738.15 to prime certified small business primes.
• Six items awarding $20,370,604.64 to certified minority business enterprise primes.
• 11 items awarded with established participation goals for minority business enterprises.
• Four items awarded with established participation goals for veteran-owned small business enterprises. 

The next meeting of the Board of Public Works will be held on September 10, 2025. 

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, August 21, 2025, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Monise A. Stephenson sentenced Dalvin Devonte Risi, 27, of La Plata, to 10 years in prison for Conspiracy to Commit the First-Degree Murder of Aden Christopher Garcia and the Wear, Carry, and Transport of a Handgun in a Vehicle Upon the Roads, Highways, and Parking Lots.

Upon release, Risi will be on supervised probation for a period of five years. If he violates the terms of his probation, he faces Life in prison.

On December 21, 2023, Risi entered a guilty plea to the above-mentioned charges.

On October 23, 2022, the Prince George’s County 911 call center received a call from an individual stating that someone shot his friend in a Waldorf neighborhood. The individual also said that he was en route to Southern Maryland Hospital Center to get his friend treatment. The individual was advised to stop in the area, where he was met by officers and Emergency Medical Services. The injured individual, identified as Aden Christopher Garcia, was treated at the location and transported to the hospital. However, he, unfortunately, succumbed to his injuries the following day.

An investigation revealed that before the shooting, Dalvin Devonte Risi, co-defendant Ricardo Kevon Colbert-Lyles and another suspect met with the victim at Risi’s vehicle for a scheduled drug transaction in Waldorf. However, the transaction did not occur. The victim left the area of the vehicle and walked back to his neighborhood. Colbert-Lyles and the other suspect instructed Risi, who was driving a black Nissan Versa, to drive to the victim’s neighborhood. When they arrived in the neighborhood, the suspect exited the vehicle, ran toward the victim, who was seated in another vehicle, and then shot at him multiple times, striking him once in the head. After the shooting, the suspect returned to the Nissan Versa, where he fled with Risi and Colbert-Lyles.

Surveillance video captured the incident and the Nissan Versa. Risi was identified as the primary operator of the vehicle.

A further investigation revealed that prior to the shooting, Colbert-Lyles requested Risi to pick him up as well as the other suspect, whom Risi was unacquainted with, and drive them to the victim for the transaction.

On June 27, 2025, Colbert-Lyles was sentenced to 25 years in prison by Charles County Circuit Court Judge William R. Greer, Jr. for his role in the murder.

At sentencing, Assistant State’s Attorney Jonathan Beattie told the judge, “When you make certain decisions, you’re on the hook for the repercussions of those decisions. The decisions he made does have a consequence. He does need to be held accountable.”

Sentence

Count 14

• Conspiracy to Commit First-Degree Murder

  • Life with all but 10 years suspended

Count 13

• Wear, Carry, and Transport of a Handgun in a Vehicle Upon the Roads, Highways, and Parking Lots

  • 3 years

  • Concurrent with Count 14

5 Years of Supervised Probation

Detectives charge suspect in attempted murder case, two stolen firearms recovered, and additional people with active warrants arrested: On August 22, detectives assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division, along with the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, located a suspect wanted in connection with an attempted murder case on October Place. The circumstances of the case are as follows:

On April 14, 2025, an adult male was shot multiple times in the chest while on October Place. He was transported to a hospital, where he survived his injuries. Through investigation, detectives identified Earl Tyree Porter, 30, of Waldorf, as the primary suspect in this case. Due to Porter’s transient lifestyle, the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force was contacted to assist in locating him.

On August 22, members of the task force, along with the U.S. Marshals Special Operations Group, served a search warrant related to this investigation in the 3000 block of Gallery Place in Waldorf. Inside the residence, investigators located Porter, Damon Justin Dancy, age 30, of Waldorf, and Dnai Collins, age 26, of Waldorf. During the search, detectives recovered two stolen semi-automatic handguns, controlled dangerous substances, and other evidence. Further investigation revealed that Dancy had three active warrants through Charles County, and Collins had an active warrant as a fugitive from justice through Fairfax County, Virginia.

Porter was arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder and related offenses; a judge ordered him held without bond. On August 25, a judge ordered that Dancy could be released from the Charles County Detention Center on electronic monitoring, and Collins be released on personal recognizance.  

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 a proclamation in recognition of Women’s Equality Day.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the FY2025 Federal Older Americans Act Notice of Grant Awards on behalf of the St. Mary’s County Department of Aging and Human Services.
• Approved the Department of Emergency Services’ request to realign funds and utilize exempt financing for the remediation of the Sandgate's Radio Tower.
• Received a presentation from the Finance Department on alternate budging methodologies for Commissioner consideration in preparation of the upcoming budgeting cycle. 
• Approved the transfer of 0.84 acres of land, located off Route 235 in Lexington Park, to the Maryland State Highway Administration.

The CSMC wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

There will be no CSMC Meeting on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. The next CSMC meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 9 a.m., in the CSMC Meeting Room, on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 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 at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates.

CDS Violation: 25-65841 On August 12, 2025, Deputy McIntosh initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle with an inoperable headlight and taillight along Rt. 260 at Perrywood Lane in Dunkirk. Prior to the stop, the driver was observed making aggressive, furtive movements toward the floorboard and center console, nearly striking the guardrail. The driver was identified as David James Cabrera, 30 of Bowie. A search of the vehicle revealed a plastic bag containing approximately 44 grams of suspected cocaine, a crack pipe, a push rod, a baggie with seven pills, and a scale with trace amounts of crack cocaine. Cabrera was found in possession of $3,300 in U.S. currency. Cabrera was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where a secondary search revealed two clear plastic baggies containing approximately 4 grams of suspected crack cocaine concealed in his underwear. Cabrera was charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Contraband in a Place of Confinement, Possession While Confined, and CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics.

CDS Violation: 25-67001 On August 16, 2025, Deputy McIntosh conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for an equipment violation. The driver was identified as Martinique Tajaisha Logan, 34 of Capitol Heights. During the stop, a small child was observed lying unrestrained across the back seat, and large heat-sealed bags containing suspected marijuana were in plain view on the front seat. A check revealed Logan had an open warrant through Prince George’s County. A probable cause search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 4.5 grams of crack cocaine, 258 grams of marijuana, 11 baggies commonly used for packaging controlled dangerous substances, and a digital scale containing marijuana residue. Logan was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Cannabis, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Cannabis Over Civil Use, and Possession/Distribute CDS Packing Material.

CDS Violation: 25-67220 On August 17, 2025, Deputy Morgal conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for excessive speed on Rt. 2 near Wayside Drive in Sunderland. Contact was made with the driver, identified as Amy Lynn Letcher, 44 of Waldorf. A plastic bag containing a light brown, powdery rock-like substance, suspected to be heroin, was observed in the driver’s door. A search of the vehicle revealed multiple clear bags of suspected heroin totaling approximately 2 grams, four cut straws containing heroin residue, a bag of unknown gel capsules packaged in a manner consistent with CDS distribution, and numerous packing materials. Letcher was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. She was charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Theft: 25-65412 On August 11, 2025, DFC Mister responded to the Patuxent Camp Sites located at 4744 Williams Wharf Road in St. Leonard for a reported theft. The complainant advised that an unknown suspect(s) stole a delivered package containing a 15-pack of Monster Ultra Red Energy Drinks. The estimated value of the stolen property is $26.68.

Theft: 25-65967 On August 13, 2025, Deputy Brown responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office District Three station in Lusby for a reported theft. The complainant advised that two blue kayaks with paddles had been stolen from a dock in the 200 block of Leason Cove Drive, Lusby. The estimated value of the stolen property is $600.

Theft: 25-66260 On August 14, 2025, Deputy Pope responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s District One Office located at 10500 Southern Maryland Blvd. in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant reported an unknown suspect stole multiple items from his unlocked vehicle that was parked at the Dash Inn located at 136 E. Chesapeake Beach Road in Owings. The estimated value of stolen property is $475.00.

The Board of Education of Charles County is seeking qualified applicants to fill a vacancy that exists on the Board due to the recent resignation of a former Board member who represented Commissioner District 4. State law outlines criteria the Board must follow when filling a vacancy.

The Board is accepting applications now through 5 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 2. The application deadline was originally set for Aug. 27. The candidate chosen by the Board will complete a vacant term through December 2026. The next general election for the Board of Education is November 2026.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) has a page on its website with information about the Board’s vacancy and fill process. To view the information below online, visit https://www.ccboe.com/about/board-of-education/board-member-vacancy-2025.

Applicant criteria

All applicants must meet the criteria outlined below. · Must complete the application and submit the required completed Financial Disclosure Form by 5 p.m., Sept. 2.

o The Financial Disclosure Form is linked in the application or available for download on www.ccboe.com.

· Must be a resident and registered voter in Charles County for at least three years;

· Must be a resident of Commissioner District 4 (preferably for at least three years);

· Must be at least 21 years old; and

· If selected, must not be employed by or under the direction of the Board of Education of Charles County or the Superintendent of Charles County Public Schools (CCPS).

All applicants will have their District 4 residency and voter requirements verified prior to consideration by the Board. Additionally, applicants should be able to pass a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) background check, which is standard for all CCPS employees.

Application information

All interested applicants must provide: · A completed online application. Click here to access.

o One-page cover letter must be uploaded to the application.

o A resume must be uploaded to the application. · A completed Financial Disclosure Statement (click here to download a copy).

· The statement must be completed, notarized and returned by U.S. mail or in person to Joy Weaver, executive assistant to the elected Board, Charles County Public Schools Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, 5980 Radio Station Road, La Plata, MD 20646, by the Sept. 2 deadline.

· The application and completed Financial Disclosure Statement must be received by 5 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 2, for the Board to consider the candidate.

Visit the CCPS website at Board Member Vacancy 2025 - Charles County Public Schools to learn more about the vacancy and application process.

Patrol officers apprehend two suspects in robbery case in Bannister Circle: On August 25, at approximately 7:20 p.m., patrol officers responded to a report of an armed robbery in the area of Bannister Circle and Hamilton Place. The initial investigation revealed the victim was selling cannabis when the suspects approached, produced a firearm, and stole the cannabis. The suspects also forced the victim to transfer money via a mobile payment app to their account before fleeing the scene. Responding officers, including a police K-9 team, arrived and canvassed the area.

One suspect, Cedric Tyrone Ford, age 21, of Washington, D.C., was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. Ford was found in possession of a stolen semi-automatic firearm and over two pounds of cannabis. A second suspect, Cartiz Antonio Young, 27, of Waldorf, returned to the area shortly after and was arrested without incident. The recovered firearm was confirmed to have been reported stolen through a different agency. Both suspects were transported to the Charles County Detention Center. Ford, who is prohibited from possessing a firearm, was charged with robbery, weapons violations, drug violations, violation of probation, and other charges. He is currently being held without bond. Young was charged with robbery and is being held without bond. The investigation relating to the cannabis is ongoing.

BALTIMORE (August 26, 2025) – Results from the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) for the 2024-25 school year continue to rebound from post-pandemic learning loss.

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) released complete results today during the State Board of Education meeting.

Last school year marked the fourth full administration of the English language arts (ELA) and mathematics assessments after a shortened test for the 2020-21 school year. Overall results showed steady gains, a 5.5 percentage point increase since the 2021-22 school year, although ELA student performance has recovered more swiftly than mathematics.

“Maryland students are making progress. For the third year in a row, we have seen performance increases,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “We will continue to explore enhanced teacher resources, professional learning and student supports. I am excited that we’re headed in the right direction.”

“Our latest MCAP results show modest but meaningful growth—especially for our economically disadvantaged students,” said Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board of Education President. “This progress proves that when we focus on the fundamentals, our efforts pay off. By raising expectations, sharpening curriculum, and strengthening instruction, we’re opening doors, because literacy and math unlock every other opportunity.”

English language arts proficiency has now reached 50.8 percent, up from 48.4 percent the previous year and 45.3 percent in the 2021-22 school year. Mathematics proficiency reached 26.5 percent compared to 24.1 percent for the previous school year and 21.0 percent in the 2021-22 school year. 

Other highlights:

• Black/African American student performance in ELA increased 3.2 percentage points from the prior year to 39.4 percent. Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds improved ELA proficiency by 3.4 percentage points to 34.5 percent.
• Nearly all student groups experienced slight increases in mathematics proficiency. 
• Achievement gaps persist in both ELA and mathematics. Multilingual students, economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities had lower proficiency rates as compared to their peers.

State standards in English language arts and mathematics were recently updated for the first time in 15 years. MSDE plans to provide parent guides and other resources to support student success while offering professional learning and working with school systems to identify high-quality instructional materials. 

State ELA and mathematics assessments are administered annually in grades 3-8 and once in high school. Federal accountability requirements include a statewide science assessment for elementary (grades 3-5), middle school (grades 6-8), and once in high school. 

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

State, school system, and school-level data will be published on the Maryland Report Card website today.

Patrol officers apprehend two suspects in a retail theft case and recover stolen items: On August 20, at approximately 10:59 a.m., patrol officers responded to a grocery store located on King Street in Waldorf for the report of a theft in progress. Store security reported that two suspects had stolen a shopping cart filled with laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, personal care products, steaks, and other items valued at $1,200.

When officers arrived, they observed the male and a female suspect getting into a white Mercedes ML350 in the parking lot. Officers attempted to stop the driver, later identified as Lonnell Demontae Jennings, age 27, of Washington, D.C., but he fled and subsequently lost control of the Mercedes and crashed into a wooded area on Poplar Hill Road.

Jennings attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended by officers. He was transported to a hospital where he was treated for minor injuries and then taken to the Charles County Detention Center. He had several active warrants for theft from other jurisdictions. He was charged with theft under $1,500, disorderly conduct, and other related charges. The female suspect, identified as Khadijah Tufaye Spurlock, age 24, also of Washington, D.C., was taken into custody at the scene of the crash and transported to the Charles County Detention Center, where she was charged with theft under $1,500 and disorderly conduct. All of the stolen merchandise was recovered from the vehicle. On August 20, a district court commissioner released Spurlock on personal recognizance. On August 21, a judge ordered Jennings held without bond. The investigation is ongoing.

(PORT TOBACCO, MD)— Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper, based in St Mary’s, performed a hoist rescue yesterday in Charles County.

Maryland State Police Aviation Command was dispatched to a remote wooded marshy area in Port Tobacco at approximately 6:15 p.m. on August 23, 2025, to assist in the rescue of a park visitor. The park visitor had fallen approximately 25 feet from a tree and down a steep embankment.  First responders from Charles County Fire and Rescue, La Plata Volunteer Fire Department, and paramedics from Charles County Department of Emergency Services had gained access to the patient, initiated care, and determined that transportation by medevac helicopter to a trauma center was necessary due to the severity of their injuries.

Trooper 7’s pilots maneuvered the Augusta Westland 139 into position approximately 115 feet above the rescuers and patient. A rescue device and a Trooper/Rescue Technician were lowered from the AW-139 to the providers below where the patient was packaged in a rescue device, and an aerial hoist was successfully executed. The Maryland State Police Rescue Technician continued medical care during the evolution. Trooper 7’s crew subsequently transported the injured hiker to a regional trauma center while providing in-flight advanced medical care.

This rescue was a collaboration between Maryland State Police Aviation Command, the La Plata Volunteer Fire Department, Charles County DES, and our other public safety partners in Charles County. 

The rescue also highlights the capabilities of the Maryland State Police Aviation Command. Ten AW-139 helicopters based out of seven sections across the state provide medevac, search and rescue, aerial law enforcement, and homeland security services and are prepared to assist in even the most challenging missions.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (August 21, 2025) — Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman today released a letter signed by a coalition of financial officers from 16 states representing more than $3 trillion in pension fund assets to challenge BlackRock CEO Larry Fink to reject calls for passive investment oversight and instead embrace active fiduciary stewardship for America's workers and retirees. 

The coalition's letter to Mr. Fink — whose firm manages $12.5 trillion globally — delivers a pointed rebuke to the State Financial Officers Foundation (SFOF), whose July letter promoted what Comptroller Lierman calls a "fundamentally flawed and dangerous interpretation" of fiduciary duty that would abandon oversight responsibilities. 

“The stakes couldn't be higher,” Comptroller Lierman declared. “With 420,000 Maryland retirees counting on their pensions to retire with dignity, we reject the notion that CEOs are dictators. True fiduciary duty demands active oversight, not passive neglect of long-term risks that could devastate retirement security.” 

The coalition—controlling significantly more assets than the less than $2 trillion represented by SFOF signatories—has given BlackRock until September 1, 2025, to respond and commit to responsible stewardship practices. 

“Asset managers must choose whether they will stand with working families and retirees who need long-term value creation, or whether they will cave to political pressure and abandon their most basic responsibilities,” Comptroller Lierman noted. 

Exposing the SFOF’s Irresponsible Vision 

The coalition’s letter refutes SFOF’s position, arguing that its approach would: 

• Abandon oversight of material climate, governance, and supply chain risks. 

• Sever ownership from stewardship by preventing engagement with major portfolio companies. 

• Ignore economic reality that institutional investors are long-term owners who bear the consequences of unmanaged risks. 

• Weaken proxy voting rights that are essential tools for protecting investor interests.

“The SFOF letter isn't just wrong — it's reckless," Comptroller Lierman stated. "They're asking asset managers to blindfold themselves to risks that could crush retirement portfolios. That’s not fiduciary duty — it's malpractice.” 

The coalition specifically challenges BlackRock to: 

? Reaffirm commitment to responsible stewardship of public pension assets. 
? Expand proxy voting opportunities for institutional clients.
? Develop enhanced tools connecting capital to oversight.
? Meet directly with coalition offices to demonstrate commitment.

The coalition’s unified stance represents a critical moment for American retirement security, as political pressure mounts on asset managers to retreat from long-term risk management. 

The full letter can be found HERE and the full list of signatories includes: 

Brooke E. Lierman, Maryland State Comptroller

(Comptroller Lierman has signed on solely in her o?cial capacity as a state comptroller) 

Malia Cohen, California State Controller 

Fiona Ma, California State Treasurer 

David L. Young, Colorado State Treasurer 

Erick Russell, Connecticut Treasurer 

Colleen C. Davis, Delaware State Treasurer 

Michael W. Frerichs, Illinois State Treasurer 

Joe Perry, Maine State Treasurer 

Deborah B. Goldberg, Massachusetts State Treasurer and Receiver-General 

Julie Blaha, Minnesota State Auditor 

Zach B. Conine, Nevada State Treasurer 

Brad Lander, New York City Comptroller 

Laura M. Montoya, New Mexico State Treasurer 

Elizabeth Steiner, Oregon State Treasurer 

James A. Diossa, Rhode Island General Treasurer 

Mike Pieciak, Vermont State Treasurer 

Michael J. Pellicciotti, Washington State Treasurer 

(Washington State Treasurer Pellicciotti has signed on solely in his o?cial capacity as a state treasurer) 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (August 20, 2025) The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is joining forces with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) this Saturday, August 23, 2025, for “Saturation Saturday,” a nationwide initiative aimed at preventing impaired driving and saving lives.

As part of the effort, deputies will increase DUI patrols and enforcement operations throughout the county. The goal is simple but urgent: to stop impaired drivers before they can cause crashes, injuries, or deaths on our roadways. This enhanced operation comes in addition to the Sheriff’s Office’s regular, focused, and determined efforts to combat drunk driving year-round.

“Your decisions behind the wheel affect others; make good ones. Drunk driving is a 100 percent preventable crime, yet it continues to devastate families and communities,” said Sheriff Steve Hall.

MADD launched Saturation Saturday eight years ago as a coordinated campaign with law enforcement agencies nationwide. The initiative is designed to coincide with the busy late-summer travel period and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.

According to federal traffic data, drunk driving fatalities rise sharply around Labor Day weekend. In 2023 alone, 511 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes nationwide during the holiday period.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office urges all drivers to make responsible choices:

• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using rideshare, or calling a cab.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 911 immediately.

For more information about Mothers Against Drunk Driving, visit www.madd.org.

BALTIMORE, MD (July 29, 2025) — Today marks the start of the 2025-26 school year as Frederick and St. Mary’s counties open their doors, the first of 24 Maryland school systems to welcome nearly 890,000 students back to school in the weeks ahead.

This year, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is focusing on regular student attendance, academic achievement, and support for teachers and school leaders.

“As we begin this new school year, I want to thank our educators, school leaders, families, and community partners for their dedication and collaboration,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools.  “From the first day of school to the last, our mission is to prepare Maryland students for life beyond our classrooms through strong teaching, learning, and leadership.”

“Our goal is to continue building a world-class public education system,” said Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board of Education President. “The dawn of the new school year represents such great potential for our children and our young people.” 

Next week, MSDE will release results from the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) to evaluate progress and identify areas for acceleration.

“We are proud of the gains Maryland students made last year,” said Dr. Wright. “This year, we will build on that momentum.” 

2025-26 First Day of School in Maryland School Systems

Wednesday, August 20 — Frederick, St. Mary’s

Monday, August 25 — Anne Arundel*, Baltimore City, Baltimore, Charles, Howard, Kent*, Queen Anne’s*, Talbot, Washington

Tuesday, August 26 — Calvert, Montgomery, Prince George’s

Wednesday, August 27 — Allegany

Tuesday, September 2 — Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Dorchester*, Garrett, Harford, Somerset, Wicomico*, Worcester

Note: Asterisk denotes staggered openings for certain grades.

CDS Violation: 25-64290 On August 7, 2025, Deputy Campbell responded to the Wawa located at 305 Market Square Drive in Prince Frederick for a reported theft. The investigation revealed that unknown suspects entered the store, retrieved a bag from behind the counter, and began filling it with numerous items before exiting the store without paying. Deputy Campbell made contact with the suspects, identified as Kevin Darnell Commodore, 38 of Lusby; Heather Lynn Davis, 43 of Huntingtown; and Latroy Lynell Hall, 45 of Huntingtown. A Wawa bag was observed in plain view, and the suspects were unable to provide a receipt or proof of purchase. Further investigation revealed various drug paraphernalia and controlled dangerous substances (CDS), including suspected fentanyl and cocaine, inside the vehicle. A subsequent search incident to arrest uncovered additional paraphernalia on Hall’s person and CDS on Davis’s person. All three suspects, Commodore, Davis, and Hall were charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. Hall and Davis were additionally charged with Obstructing and Hindering. Davis also received charges of Possession of Contraband in a Place of Confinement and Theft Less Than $100

CDS Violation: 25-63647 On August 4, 2025, Cpl. Buckler conducted a traffic stop in the area of Rt. 4 and Rt. 231 in Prince Frederick for a moving violation. The driver, identified as John Edward Nichols, 35 of California, MD, became argumentative during the stop. DFC Crum and his K9 partner Zeus responded and conducted an open-air sniff of the vehicle, resulting in a positive alert. A subsequent search revealed a crack pipe, brass Brillo, and a bottle of Oxycodone pills. Nichols was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession–Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 25-64894 On August 9, 2025, Cpl. Ridgely responded to a motor vehicle crash in the 100 block of Helena Drive in Prince Frederick. Upon making contact with the driver of the striking vehicle, identified as James Robert Owens Jr., 42 of Lusby, deputies observed signs of impairment. DFC Hendrickson and his K9 partner, Atlas, responded to the scene and conducted an open-air sniff of the vehicle, which resulted in a positive alert. A subsequent search of Owens revealed a cellophane wrapper containing four capsules of suspected Fentanyl that fell from his pockets. Owens was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis. 

Damaged Property: 25-64436 On August 7, 2025, DFC Mister responded to the 100 block of Rachael’s Way in Prince Frederick for a report of property destruction. The complainant advised an unknown suspect(s) spray painted graffiti on the front of the residence. The estimated value of the damage is unknown at this time.

Theft: 25-64416 On August 7, 2025, DFC Fleenor responded to the 3900 block of 17th Street in Chesapeake Beach, for the reported theft. The complainant reported approximately 10 mesh black outdoor chairs had been stolen. The estimated value of stolen property is $600.00.

The Calvert County Department of Public Works will begin a sidewalk reconstruction project in the St. Leonard Town Center on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. The project will enhance pedestrian safety and improve walkability along Calvert Beach Road.

Construction will occur on both sides of Calvert Beach Road Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. between St. Leonard Road and Cross Gable Lane. Work will involve the removal of trees located between the sidewalk and curb, demolition of sidewalk sections displaced by tree roots and the installation of new concrete sidewalks. All work is weather dependent.

For public safety, a pedestrian detour will be in place throughout the project. Motorists should expect lane closures and flagging operations during work hours. Drivers and pedestrians are urged to follow posted signs and use caution in the area.

The Department of Public Works thanks residents and visitors for their patience during this improvement project. The project is part of Calvert County’s ongoing efforts to improve local infrastructure and enhance walkability in town centers.

For questions or more information contact Public Works at 410-535-2204 or by email at public.works@calvertcountymd.gov.

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.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – From retro dance floor grooving to fun family competition on the kickball diamond, St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) invites St. Mary’s County families to join in for two exciting fall events.

Turn back time and rock out at Hollywood Recreation Center for a 1950s style Sock Hop Dance on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 3 – 5 p.m. Families can enjoy live music and an opportunity to win prizes in the limbo, hula hoop, and outfit contests, including best “Greaser” costume, best poodle skirt, and for best dressed individual, couple, and family. Cost is $5 per person ages 3+ for St. Mary’s County residents. Ages 2 and under are free but must be registered. Pre-registration is required for all ages; no walk-ins will be accepted.

Families can also enjoy some competitive fun as Family Kickball returns Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 3 – 5 p.m. at Chancellor’s Run Regional Park. This event is for children aged 5-12 with an accompanying adult. Registration is $10 per participating St. Mary’s County resident. Registered players will receive a commemorative shirt—register by September 12 to ensure you receive your correct size! Teams will be determined by youth’s age. Non-players are welcome to cheer on their family and friends!

Online registration for both events is now available. Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/recreate, then click on Online Registration and navigate to the Special Events section.

For questions or assistance with registration, please contact R&P at (301) 475-4200 ext.1800 or via email to: RPinfo@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Stay up to date with R&P events and happenings on social media. Follow R&P at: www.Instagram.com/StMarysRecAndParks and www.Facebook.com/StMarysMDRecreation.  

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the U.S. Marshals Service, have arrested Dequan Marquis Spicer, 24, of Great Mills, in connection with a shooting on May 3, 2025.

In the early morning of May 3, 2025, patrol deputies conducting proactive patrols near Chancellors Run Road and Pegg Road heard gunfire and immediately responded. At the scene, they located a vehicle with four male occupants. Three of the individuals had sustained gunshot wounds. The fourth occupant was unharmed.

Through investigative efforts, detectives determined the shooting stemmed from an altercation that had occurred the previous evening. On May 6, Cameron David Louis Curtis, 22, of Valley Lee, and Peyton James Robert Curtis, 20, of Callaway, were arrested in connection with the incident. Jayshawn Maurice Bartless, 21, of Lexington Park, was arrested on August 1, 2025. The three suspects remain incarcerated at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center, awaiting trial.

As the investigation continued, detectives identified a fourth suspect, Dequan Marquis Spicer, 24, of Great Mills, as also being involved in the shooting. Spicer was located in North Carolina and extradited to St. Mary’s County on July 3, 2025.

Spicer was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center and served with an Indictment warrant on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, for the following charges:

•                  Four counts of attempted first-degree murder

•                  Four counts of attempted second-degree murder

•                  Four counts of assault first-degree

•                  Four counts of assault second-degree

•                  Loaded handgun on person

•                  Handgun in vehicle

•                  Loaded handgun in vehicle

The investigation remains open, and anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Keith Moritz at 301-475-4200, ext. 8093, or by email at Keith.Moritz@stmaryscountymd.gov.

SMECO recently received a $12,000 contribution from CoBank through its matching funds program to benefit local organizations serving our community. Each of the following organizations received $3,000: Our Place Waldorf Soup Kitchen, St. Mary’s Caring Soup Kitchen, End Hunger in Calvert County/Community Harvest Network, and Clements Cuties Foundation.

“Many thanks to SMECO for supporting Our Place Waldorf Soup Kitchen in our mission to serve nutritious meals with compassion and dignity,” said Deanna Gerhart, executive director of Our Place Waldorf. “The generous donation from SMECO will help us strengthen the fabric of our community by providing a welcoming space for those in need.”

Our Place Waldorf Soup Kitchen works to improve the quality of life for Charles County residents in need by providing nutritious meals and services that help reduce the effects of hunger and poverty. Since its founding in 2012, the soup kitchen has served more than 100,000 meals to local residents.

Since 1993, St. Mary’s Caring Soup Kitchen has been working to fight hunger by providing free breakfast and lunch six days a week. The group serves children, struggling families, low-income seniors, people with disabilities, the homeless, the unemployed, and the working poor. In addition to daily meals, St. Mary’s Caring provides groceries for families facing immediate food shortages, summer dinners for at-risk children, and weekly groceries for families in need.

“In the face of today’s challenges, SMECO’s generous grant allows us to feed those who are struggling the most,” said Kristine Millen, St. Mary’s Caring’s executive director. “Your support is life-changing for those who have nowhere else to turn. Thank you, a million times over, for partnering with St. Mary’s Caring Soup Kitchen to feed our neighbors in need.”

Community Harvest Network, formerly End Hunger in Calvert County, supports organizations in Southern Maryland that create lasting change for the people they serve. As a redistribution partner for the Maryland Food Bank, the network supplies food pantries, soup kitchens, and backpack programs throughout the region. Its culinary program equips individuals with learning differences with the skills they need to gain employment in the hospitality industry.

The Calvert County Traffic Safety Council and Calvert County Sheriff’s Office remind drivers to drive sober or get pulled over by law enforcement authorities. As summer draws to a close and celebrations continue, it is important to remember that driving under the influence of alcohol or cannabis endangers everyone on the road. Impaired driving is never an acceptable choice.

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, there were 511 crash fatalities nationwide during the 2023 Labor Day holiday, including 117 motorcyclists, and 36% of those crashes involved a drunk driver. Of those motorcyclist deaths, 27% were killed in drunk driving crashes. Among drivers aged 18 to 34 who were killed in crashes during the same time period, 45% had a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher.

The Calvert County Traffic Safety Council and Calvert County Sheriff’s Office remind residents to plan ahead and designate a sober driver to get home safely.   

Report impaired drivers by calling 911, and always remember to wear your seatbelt.

To learn more visit www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/drive-sober-or-get-pulled-over.

The Traffic Safety Council is a technical committee reinstituted in 2023 when Calvert County adopted its Strategic Roadway Safety Plan. The council brings together representatives from Calvert County Government, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police to address highway safety issues.

The council’s mission is to reduce the frequency and severity of motor vehicle crashes, injuries and fatalities by promoting traffic safety through directed enforcement efforts, educational programs and public awareness initiatives.

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

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning announces the opening of the public adoption process for updates to the rules and regulations governing the Calvert County Agricultural Land Preservation Program.

Created in 1978, the program was the first local land preservation program implemented in Maryland and remains one of the most successful transferable development rights (TDR) programs in the state. The program’s goal is to deter development of farms and forested land and direct growth to areas targeted for residential and commercial development. The rules and regulations have not had a comprehensive update since the program’s inception. An update is needed as the county prepares to reopen the program to applications for the creation of new Agricultural Preservation Districts.

The public adoption process will begin with a presentation to the Calvert County Planning Commission to present proposed changes. The updates will be presented at the regular Planning Commission meeting Wednesday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m. at the Harriet E. Brown Community Center, located at 901 Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick. Doors open at 6 p.m. Agricultural Preservation District owners and interested members of Calvert County’s agricultural community are encouraged to attend. The public comment period opens Aug. 21 and can be submitted to Jennifer David at jennifer.david@calvertcountymd.gov or by mail at Attn: Jennifer David, rural planner, 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

Planning & Zoning staff will present proposed changes, answer questions and receive feedback from the commission. The public is encouraged to attend in person, virtually by viewing the live stream on the county's website, or by calling the phone numbers listed below and entering the meeting ID to listen. Agendas, minutes and video can be viewed at www.CalvertCountymd.gov/1501/Meetings-On-Demand.

To participate by phone (audio only):

• Toll-free: 301-715-8592
• Meeting ID: 858 5579 4151
• Passcode: (if asked) #
• To provide comment: *9

Additional information and an anticipated schedule for the adoption of the updated rules and regulations are available at www.calvertcountymd.gov/AgPreservationUpdate. Residents are encouraged to participate in the adoption process for the updated rules and regulations through public comment or by observing upcoming work sessions and meetings.

For questions or further information, contact Jennifer David, rural planner, at 410-535-1600, ext., 2238, or email jennifer.david@CalvertCountyMd.gov or Summer Roen, historic/ rural planner at 410-535-1600, ext. 2742, or email summer.roen@CalvertCountyMd.gov.

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 August 3 at 1:34 p.m., patrol officers responded to a business in the 3300 block of Western Parkway in Waldorf for the report of a shoplifting in progress. Loss prevention employees observed two females and a male enter the store, grab two carts and reusable shopping bags, and walk around the store placing various items inside the bags; the bags and carts were completely filled. Loss prevention employees of the business recognized one of the suspects as a known shoplifter with previous thefts from the business totaling over $20,000.

Upon officers' arrival, the three suspects fled out of the back fire door with the carts and items, where officers, who were already staged in the area, apprehended the male suspect. The females fled to the front of the store, where one of the females was stopped. The third female fled across the street and tried to get inside a waiting vehicle; however, officers were able to prevent the driver from fleeing, and the woman was taken into custody.

The shoplifters were subsequently arrested and identified as Sheldon White, age 39, of Washington, D.C., Ashanti Darnesha McClam, age 22, of Oxon Hill, and Sommora Therlasa Middleton, age 29, of Washington, D.C. The driver was identified as Darwin Marquette Jones, 34, of Washington, D.C.

The suspects had a two-page shopping list for the items they were stealing, which included household items, cleaning products, car waxes, car cleaning supplies, apparel, purses, jewelry, hardware, and patio décor totaling over $4,000.

Officers obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and recovered two more bags filled with items that appeared to be stolen, along with a separate shopping list of items to steal. This list included smartphones, headphones, household supplies, and other specific merchandise. More narcotics were also recovered, and additional charges are pending.

White was charged with felony theft. He also had an active arrest warrant for failure to appear in court. McClam was charged with felony theft; she also had two active arrest warrants and was in possession of narcotics. Middleton was charged with felony theft and possession of narcotics. Jones was charged with theft scheme. On August 4, a district court commissioner released White on a $500 unsecured bond; Middleton on personal recognizance; and Jones on personal recognizance. McClam is being held without bond. PFC Elliot is investigating.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) recently celebrated nearly 40 students who completed the requirements for a Maryland high school diploma in summer school. The students, along with their friends, family and staff from their respective high schools, gathered Aug. 1, at St. Charles High School for a summer commencement ceremony.

In her speech to the graduates, Superintendent of Schools Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D., recognized the perseverance of the students graduating and said their efforts to move forward to complete their studies were admirable.

The following is a list of members of the Class of 2025 who earned their diplomas through summer school. 

Henry E. Lackey High School

• Najai E. Best.
• Theresa N. Davis.
• Sierra A. Little.
• Macario T. Savannah.
• Nicholas C. Webb.
• Jeremy P. Yee.

La Plata High School

• Brooklyn A. Barber.
• Dayshaun R. Boyd.
• William J. DeAtley.
• Harley C. Kline.

Maurice J. McDonough High School

• Adrian S. Carter.
• Elijah E. Duncan.
• Kemry M. Hughes III.
• Stetson J. Jones.
• Breonna J. Lucas.
• Carlesh-Delsy G. Nchinda.
• Alanna G. Simmons.
• Serena M. Steele.

North Point High School

• Daniel Assefa.
• Jamir J. Eldridge-Scott.
• Alex T. Johnson.
• Jaybari J. Kenner.
• Julio A. Rivera.
• Matthew A. Spraggins.

St. Charles High School

• Isaiah L. Price Jr.
• Abigail R. Roberts-Robinson.
• Anthony E. Young Jr.

Thomas Stone High School

• Fitzgerald P. Dennison Jr.
• Matayah C. Graves.
• Zamia R. Johnson.
• Aniyah S. Vanterpool.
• Kevin D. Williams III.

Westlake High School

• Madison D. Harris.
• Kimberly M. Hong.
• Javon J. Houser.
• Kyra N. Johnson.
• Demarcus T. Mason.
• Derrick J. McLamore.
• Erlyn A. Osorio Monroy.
• Moises D. Osorto Gomez.
• Lailah A. Simon.
• Christian I. Tyler-Jordan.

About CCPS

Charles County Public Schools provides 28,162 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 38 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

The Charles County public school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability in its programs, activities or employment practices. For inquiries, please contact Dr. Mike Blanchard, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (students) or Nikial M. Majors, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (employees/ adults), at Charles County Public Schools, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646; 301-932-6610/301-870-3814. For special accommodations call 301-934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks prior to the event. 

CCPS provides nondiscriminatory equal access to school facilities in accordance with its Use of Facilities rules to designated youth groups (including, but not limited to, the Boy Scouts).

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Aug. 11, 2025 – The Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center in Prince Frederick will be closed for annual maintenance beginning Monday, Aug. 11 through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 1. The facility will reopen Tuesday, Sept. 2.

Front desk staff will be available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the lobby will be open for visitation. The lobby will be closed Wednesday, Aug. 27, through Friday, Aug. 29.

Registration for fall swim lessons opens Monday, Aug. 11, at 8:30 a.m., and registration for September water fitness classes opens Monday, Aug. 18, at 8:30 a.m. To register, visit calvertcounty.perfectmind.com/SocialSite/MemberRegistration/MemberSignIn or call 410-414-8350, ext. 2. For additional questions or information, email aquatics@CalvertCountyMd.gov or visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/397/Edward-T-Hall-Aquatic-Center.   Residents may also email Aquatics Division Chief Brandon Madeja at brandon.madeja@calvertcountymd.gov.

We thank residents for their patience as we perform this necessary maintenance to ensure the Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center remains a safe, clean and enjoyable facility for all.

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

CHARLES COUNTY, MD (August 11, 2025) - The Office of the State Fire Marshal continues to investigate the cause of the deadly multi-fatal fire in Waldorf that claimed the lives of six people, including four children, on Sunday morning. While investigators have found no evidence of arson at the scene, the cause remains under investigation. 

As part of every origin and cause investigation, fire investigators work to determine whether smoke alarms were activated during the incident. This can be challenging because intense heat, heavy smoke, and the water used in firefighting operations often damage or destroy critical alarm components, including circuitry, housings, and batteries. In some cases, specialized analysis or reconstruction is required to look for signs of activation. Even if an alarm did sound, occupants or first responders may not have heard it due to factors such as closed doors, distance from the device, background noise, or the fire spreading rapidly and overpowering the sound.

"We must methodically examine every possible fire cause and contributing factor," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "Determining whether smoke alarms were sounding is not always straightforward, but it is essential to understanding how and why tragedies like this occur.

Deputy State Fire Marshals continue to work alongside the Charles County Sheriff's Office, which is standard operating procedure whenever a fatal fire occurs. The names, ages, and official causes of death for the victims will be released once the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner's examinations are complete.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal urges Maryland residents to test their smoke alarms monthly and replace all alarms every ten years. For more information on smoke alarm safety and to request a smoke alarm for your home or family, visit: https://mdsp.maryland.gov/firemarshal/Pages/Get-Alarmed-Maryland.aspx

CDS Violation: 25-62640 On August 1, 2025, at approximately 4:11 a.m., DFC A. Dymond responded to the Popeyes located at 75 Harrow Lane in Prince Frederick for a reported burglary alarm. Upon arrival, deputies observed a white Penske box truck fleeing from the restaurant, swerving across the roadway and making abrupt turns. A felony stop was initiated, and the driver, identified as Mario Alberto Lopez-Avendano, 36, of Upper Marlboro, eventually came to a stop. A search of the vehicle revealed a bag containing a white powdery substance, suspected to be cocaine, and two cans of Modelo. Lopez-Avendano was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

Damaged Property: 25-62671 On August 1, 2025, Master Deputy Burgraff responded to Solomons True Value, located at 20 Creston Lane in Solomons, for the report of property destruction. Investigation revealed a vehicle in the parking lot had all four tires punctured, along with damage to the front passenger window and windshield. The estimated value of the damage is $1,500.

Disorderly Conduct: 25-63187 On August 3, 2025, Deputy Armbruster responded to the Tiki Bar at 85 Charles Street in Solomons for a report of a disorderly subject. Deputies made contact with Da’Mia Ranesha Armstrong, 34, of Washington, D.C., who refused multiple orders to leave the business. When taken into custody, Armstrong resisted and assaulted a deputy. She was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, public intoxication, second-degree assault, and trespassing on private property.

Mail Tampering Theft: 25-61559 On July 28, 2025, DFC Mister responded to the 900 block of Hallowing Point Road in Prince Frederick for a reported mail tampering. The complainant advised that an unknown suspect opened three mailboxes, removing an unknown number of letters and one package. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 6 feet tall, weighing 200 lbs., with short black hair, wearing a black tank top, black shorts, and black shoes. The estimated value of the stolen property is unknown at this time.

Theft: 25-61575 On July 28, 2025, Deputy McIntosh responded to Giant Food located at 655 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick for a reported theft. The complainant advised that two unknown suspects carried assorted groceries past all points of sale without paying and fled toward Dares Beach Road. The suspects were described as two mixed-race females wearing all black. The estimated value of the stolen property is $53.00. 

Theft: 25-61590 On July 28, 2025, Deputy McIntosh responded to 200 Main Street in Prince Frederick, for the reported theft. The complainant reported that an unknown suspect(s) gained entry to the victim’s vehicle and stole his handicap placard. The estimated value of stolen property is $50.00.

Theft: 25-62768 On August 1, 2025, Deputy Grabill responded to the Shell gas station located at 11550 HG Trueman Road in Lusby for a reported theft. The complainant advised that an unknown suspect(s) removed and stole both the front and rear tags from a vehicle parked in the lot for maintenance. The estimated value of the stolen property is $40.00.

Theft: 25-63330 On August 3, 2025, Deputy Morgal responded to the District 1 Office located at 10500 Southern Maryland Blvd in Dunkirk for a reported theft. The complainant advised that while their vehicle was parked at Walmart, located at 10600 Town Center Blvd in Dunkirk, an unknown suspect(s) stole the front license plate. The estimated value of the stolen property is $20.00.

Trespassing: 25-62296 On July 30, 2025, Deputy Angell responded to the Chesapeake Beach Fastop located at 8054 Bayside Road in Chesapeake Beach for a reported trespassing incident. Deputies made contact with Nathan Oliver White, 42 of Chesapeake Beach, who had been previously issued an indefinite trespass notice for the property. White was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property. 

Weapons Violation: 25-61496 On July 28, 2025, Deputy McIntosh conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle exceeding the posted speed limit in the area of Rt. 4 and Industry Lane in Prince Frederick. During the stop, both occupants consented to a search of the vehicle. The search revealed a firearm case containing a magazine and a Sig Sauer pistol loaded with 16 rounds. The driver, Chandler B. Shaw, 21 of Old Town, Maine, was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where he was charged with Loaded Handgun in a Vehicle and other related offenses. 

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Aug. 11, 2025 – The Calvert County Office on Aging has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association to offer The Empowered Caregiver, a series of courses for caregivers. This free series allows caregivers to register for individual courses or complete the entire series. 

The dates and the times of the courses are:

·         Aug. 13, 6-7 p.m., “Building Foundations of Caregiving”

·         Sept. 10, 6-7 p.m., “Supporting Independence”

·         Oct. 15, 6-7 p.m., “Communicating Effectively”

·         Nov. 12, 6-7 p.m., “Responding to Dementia Related Behaviors”

·         Dec. 10, 6-7 p.m., “Exploring Care and Support Services”

The series will be held virtually. To register for this online series, call 410-535-4606, ext. 8755, or email lisa.caudle@calvertcountymd.gov.

“We are happy to partner with the Alzheimer's Association to support caregivers in our community,” said Jennifer Moreland, director of the Calvert County Community Resources. “We believe this series will be impactful as we look to support all who provide care to their loved ones and friends.”

The Calvert County Office on Aging provides a broad range of programs and services to help older adults maintain the best possible quality of life. Find more information online at [www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Aging]www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Aging and sign up for The Connection and the Caregiver Connections newsletters at [www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Newsletters]www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Newsletters.

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) and leaders from across St. Mary’s County Government will be attending the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) summer conference in Ocean City, MD, from August 13-16, 2025.

The 2025 theme “Funding the Future: The Evolving Role of Local Government,” embodies MACo’s commitment to addressing the pressing issues that shape Maryland’s counties and finding innovative solutions to guide their success in the years ahead.

The four-day event is expected to draw over 3,000 county and state government representatives, alongside commercial companies from across Maryland – making it the state's largest gathering of local government officials. Participants can expect a dynamic and enriching experience, with countless opportunities to network and build valuable connections across Maryland’s government and business communities. With more than 50 educational sessions, forums, and briefings, attendees will explore how local governments deliver essential services, plan for long-term financial sustainability, adapt to evolving responsibilities, and meet rising community expectations. The expansive 350-booth tradeshow and the innovative 60-booth Tech Expo will showcase cost-saving solutions and the conference will also offer numerous networking events, fostering invaluable connections within Maryland's governmental and business communities.

“The MACo Conference is an important opportunity to share our experiences, learn new strategies, and strengthen relationships with our partners in government and industry so we can better serve our residents now and in the years ahead,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy, who also serves on MACo's Board of Directors and Legislative Committee.

St. Mary’s County Government is proud to have two team members presenting at the 2025 conference. Bob Kelly, Chief Information Officer with our Department of Information Technology will present as a panelist on the sessions, “The Cyberattack "Hot Wash" − Lessons Learned After Things Went Wrong” and “Ransomware Reality: Communicating Through a Cyberattack − An Interactive Exercise”. Additionally, Mary Ann Thompson, Warden of the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center will present as a panelist on the session, “Caring for Kids: Challenges with Juvenile Detention in Adult Facilities.”

Note to Members of the Press: You are invited to attend the conference as complimentary guests and may register through MACo's website: http://www.mdcounties.org/SC25OnlineRegistration.

Please note the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County will not meet on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room (1^st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown). Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov. Visit stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

CHARLES COUNTY, MD ( August 10, 2025) - A team of investigators from the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Charles County Sheriff's Office worked throughout the day Sunday to determine the cause of a devastating Sunday morning fire in Waldorf that claimed six lives in the 3000 block of Declaration Court North.

At around 8:40 a.m., the first 911 calls were received reporting a house fire with reported entrapment. Charles County Sheriff's Office was the first to arrive, and discovered that two adult occupants escaped unharmed*, and they were told that possibly up to six others were inside.  Deputies attempted to enter the home but could not due to heavy smoke and flames. Within minutes, firefighters from the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department and surrounding departments arrived and immediately upgraded the incident to two alarms. Crews worked quickly to bring the fire under control while searching for victims. Another adult occupant arrived at the home while the fire department was on the scene; however, tragically, two other adults and four children were found deceased inside the home. 

Investigators were assisted by K9 "Taylor, the Calvert K-9 Search Team, and the Charles County Collapse Team, which assisted with shoring up the home due to extensive structural fire damage. While the cause remains under investigation, investigators determined the fire originated within an enclosed porch on the right side of the home. The identities and ages of the victims will be confirmed by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, who will also determine their exact cause of death. 

"This is an unimaginable loss for the community," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "Our hearts go out to the families impacted by this heartbreaking event. In times like this, we must come together to support one another and remember the importance of fire safety in our homes."

A joint investigation is a standard operating procedure between the Office of the State Fire and the local authority having jurisdiction whenever a fatal fire occurs. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is our federal partner in fire and explosive investigations, and a joint investigation is routine in multi-fatal and high-dollar loss investigations. 

* - This corrects an earlier report that only one person escaped from the home

Maryland DNR photo

Hunters can now apply for permits and check the schedule to hunt waterfowl at manmade lakes or ponds, or impoundments, at Deal Island and Fairmount Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) this season. 

Applications for the hunting permits at Fairmount WMA or Deal Island WMA are available on the Maryland DNR website and are due by Sept. 8. All permits for the regular duck season for both the Deal Island and Fairmount WMA impoundments will be issued by lottery conducted in mid-September. Permits will allow the selected hunter and up to two additional guests to hunt on the dates for which they are chosen. 

All applicants must have their current Maryland hunting license and applicable stamps, which can be purchased or renewed at the department’s licensing website, MD Outdoors.

The current program is being managed to reduce crowding and maintain the quality of waterfowl hunting opportunities during the regular duck season.

At both the Fairmount and Deal Island impoundments, hunting is allowed during the regular duck season only on these days: opening day and Saturdays during the October segment; opening day, Saturdays and the Friday following Thanksgiving during the November segment; and opening day and Saturdays during the December-January portion, with Wednesdays added after January 1. 

Hunters should note that a permit is required to hunt on all open days during the regular duck season at the Deal Island impoundment. As in the past, a permit is required to hunt at the Fairmount impoundments on the opening day of each segment of the regular duck season. 

All the impoundments will continue to be open without permits on Youth/Veterans Waterfowl Hunt days and during the September Resident Goose Season. In addition, the Fairmount impoundments will continue to be open during the September Teal Season without permits. The Deal Island impoundment will continue to be closed during the September Teal Season.

Hunters with questions may contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service at 410-651-2065, ext.100.

The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will temporarily close left turn lanes at three northbound MD 235 (Three Notch Road) intersections next week in Lexington Park:

• MD 235 at Old Rolling Road / Shady Mile Drive (Monday August 11 & Tuesday August 12) – one of two northbound MD 235 left turn lanes will be closed.

• MD 235 at MacArthur Boulevard / Millstone Landing Road (Tuesday August 12 & Wednesday August 13) – one of two northbound MD 235 left turn lanes will be closed.

• MD 235 at Pegg Road / Buse Road (Wednesday August 13 & Thursday August 14) – the northbound MD 235 left turn lane will be closed.

The daytime work is scheduled between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to allow crews to perform test pitting. Drivers should plan for additional travel time, and remain alert for workers, lane closures and equipment. All work is weather permitting.

This construction work is part of the current Smart Signal project to update traffic signal systems along MD 235 and MD 246.

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

The Internal Audit Department has successfully completed its Peer Review, earning the highest possible rating of “Generally Conforms.” This assessment affirms that the department’s operations, policies, and procedures align with the standards set by the Institute of Internal Auditors’ International Professional Practices Framework.

The Peer Review process is essential for ensuring the quality and effectiveness of internal audit functions. During this thorough evaluation, an independent team of auditors conducted a comprehensive review of the department’s operations. Their findings confirm that the Internal Audit Department operates at a high level, providing assurance regarding the effectiveness of the organization’s internal controls and risk management processes.

Key highlights from the review:

• The review recognized the Internal Audit team’s commitment to professional standards and established policies and procedures.
• The assessment emphasized the department’s independence, objectivity, and unbiased approach.
• The review provided valuable feedback and recommendations for continuous improvement, which the team is actively addressing to refine processes and enhance its services.

This top-tier rating underscores the Internal Audit Department’s critical role in upholding transparency, accountability, and effective governance. It not only validates the team’s adherence to professional auditing standards but also highlights their proactive efforts to strengthen internal controls and risk management. The department’s dedication to continuous improvement ensures that it remains a trusted and valuable resource in supporting the organization’s mission and operational excellence.

Charles County Acting Administrator Deborah Hall announces the appointment of Jim Chandler as the new Director of Economic Development. Chandler brings a wealth of experience in economic revitalization, community development, and public-private partnerships to the role. His appointment is effective Aug. 18.

Mr. Chandler most recently held senior executive leadership roles in Prince George’s County, where he oversaw strategic initiatives in urban revitalization and transit-oriented development. With over two decades of experience, he has led a broad range of efforts including infrastructure modernization, adaptive reuse of properties, long-range facilities planning, and the creation of an award-winning Community Sustainability Plan for the City of Hyattsville. His career demonstrates a strong commitment to smart growth, innovation, and inclusive economic development.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jim Chandler to Charles County,” said Acting County Administrator Deborah Hall. “His proven expertise in leading multiple diverse teams, managing complex redevelopment projects and building strong collaborations across government, private sector, and community stakeholders makes him an ideal leader to advance our county’s economic future.”

In his new role, Mr. Chandler will oversee the Department of Economic Development and guide the County’s efforts to promote job creation, attract and retain businesses, support entrepreneurship, enhance workforce development, and expand the local economy. His top priorities will include fostering commercial growth in the suburban center of Waldorf and the new western technology corridor in Indian Head and advancing redevelopment projects with the newly-established Industrial Authority. These initiatives are intended to strategically position Charles County as a competitive destination for investment and innovation.

“I am honored to join the dynamic team at Charles County Government,” said Chandler. “This is a unique and exciting time for the County, and I look forward to building on the strong foundation that has already been laid. Together, we will continue fostering a diverse, sustainable economy that benefits all residents.”

Mr. Chandler holds a Master of Public Policy from Stony Brook University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government from Johns Hopkins University. He is also a member of national and regional professional organizations dedicated to economic and community development.

Invasive Chesapeake Channa can be found in most of the Chesapeake’s tributaries

The toothy, slimy Chesapeake Channa isn’t native to our waters, but many Maryland anglers have a sense of pride in fishing for them. Maryland DNR photo.

The Chesapeake Channa, or snakehead, has developed a dedicated following in the sportfishing community–even though they’ve been an unwelcome addition to Maryland waterways. 

These invasive predators known primarily as snakeheads were coined Chesapeake Channa by the Maryland General Assembly in 2024. 

Whatever you call this fish, Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) fisheries biologists and avid anglers have seen populations of Channa in Maryland grow since their arrival in 2002. They have spread rapidly through the Potomac River watershed and established a strong presence in nearly every tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. Though they are considered a freshwater fish, Chesapeake Channa can tolerate moderate salinity and have been observed in the saltiest parts of the Chesapeake Bay, where rates range from 10% to 12%. Decreases in salinity from heavy rainfall and flooding increases dispersal of the species, enabling the fish to spread from rivermouths to the Bay’s mainstem, and into nearby rivers.

One silver lining in the spread of Chesapeake Channa is its recreational value, along with its culinary reputation as a delicious whitefish with a consistency and taste similar to halibut. Anglers across Maryland have opportunities to target the invasive species from the lower reaches of the Eastern Shore to increasingly further north up the Potomac River and many places in between. A guided experience will give anglers the best chances of hooking a Channa and customers have the choice of chartering boats, kayak trips, or nighttime bowfishing excursions. 

Bowfishing is rising in popularity and allows anglers to harvest Chesapeake Channa in large quantities. 23 were taken during this 2023 late-night trip. Maryland DNR photo.

“I’ve personally been fishing for snakeheads for the last 10 years,” said Captain Mike Renzi of Hydra Bowfishing. “The fishing gets more productive year after year, with this season being our best one yet. This is due to what seems like a growing population as well as a wealth of knowledge and an arsenal of techniques that grows every time I target them. The best and most exciting way to get out and get on some snakeheads is without a doubt hiring an experienced guide service to take you out and teach you the ins and outs of fishing for snakehead!”

If you’re the do-it-yourself type and on the hunt for a tasty Channa fillet or want the action of hooking into a hard-fighting, aggressive-striking fish, Maryland has more than enough places for you to cast a line. DNR asked avid anglers, professional guides, and fisheries biologists for the best places to catch a Chesapeake Channa – and the results might surprise you. Keep in mind that catch-and-release fishing for Channa is highly discouraged, and removing them from Maryland’s waterbodies is the best way to tackle this invasive species. Anglers who catch them can make use of them in multiple ways rather than eating them.

Southern Maryland

Kayaks are a popular means of transport for anglers targeting the shallow, grassy waters where Chesapeake Channa are often found. Shane McClanahan caught this Channa fishing near lily pads at Mattawoman Creek.

Anglers pursuing Channa in Southern Maryland should fish in the tidal tributaries of the Potomac, especially notable areas like Mattawoman Creek. The Mattawoman has produced at least one former state-record Channa and is a prolific spot for both hook and line anglers and bowfishermen to target large fish. An added benefit of fishing in Mattawoman Creek is the abundant largemouth bass population, which draws professional fishing tournaments to the region. The Sweden Point Marina at Smallwood State Park is a good place to launch a boat or kayak, while shore anglers might enjoy better success further upstream at Mattingly Park.

Mallows Bay is another Potomac tributary, best known for its “Ghost Fleet” of sunken wooden ships. Roughly 200 vessels constructed and then abandoned in the early 1900s lie submerged – some not entirely – now providing structure and sanctuary for a variety of fish. Chesapeake Channa lurk in the shallow waters of Mallows Bay, which is best navigated by kayak or canoe. Access is provided via the Mallows Bay Park in Nanjemoy, managed by Charles County.

Eastern Shore

Southern Dorchester County’s Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge has historically been known as one of the most productive fishing grounds in the fish’s range. The tidal marshes, dense aquatic vegetation, and variety of access points make it an ideal location for anglers looking to catch both sizable Chesapeake Channa and large quantities of them as well. Shoreline fishing at Blackwater is permitted from the causeway over the Little Blackwater River on Key Wallace Drive, but kayak and canoe anglers should also take advantage of areas accessed by soft launches on Golden Hill Road and Egypt Road. Outfitters such as Blackwater Adventures offer rentals and guided fishing for those looking for an all-in-one experience.

Invasive Channa can also be found along the Nanticoke River, which offers fishing opportunities from boat, paddlecraft, or shore. Cherry Beach Park in Sharptown has a license-free fishing area where Channa have been found, while the nearby Marshyhope Creek is known for Channa catches throughout the system and even across the Delaware state line.

Central Maryland

Dave Saxon caught this 31.25″ Channa at the Conowingo Dam in 2024. Seasoned anglers call these toothy critters “dragons” once they measure past 30 inches or tip the scales over 10 pounds.

The Conowingo Dam lends itself to a wide variety of catches including striped bass, invasive blue and flathead catfishes, walleye, and even Chesapeake Channa in the turbulent discharge of the Susquehanna River. Conowingo Fisherman’s Park in Darlington provides ample shoreline for anglers and waders to post up with long-range casting or bottom-fishing outfits. There’s also a small boat ramp suitable for smaller vessels, though caution should be exercised regarding water releases from the dam and both submerged and exposed rocky areas. Anglers planning on fishing the area can call the dam’s hotline at 1-877-457-2525 for information on water flows and the number of gates open. The dam also operates a fish lift, which acts as an elevator for migrating fish to move upstream, and caught more than 2,000 Chesapeake Channa between March and June of last year.

The Gunpowder River is another Channa hotspot, with catches documented from the mouth of the river where it meets the Chesapeake, all the way throughout Big Gunpowder Falls, and into Loch Raven Reservoir. Within Gunpowder Falls State Park, boaters and paddlers can access Dundee Creek, Saltpeter Creek, and the Gunpowder itself via the ramp at Dundee Creek Marina in Middle River. Dundee Creek is also home to the annual “Snakes on the Dundee” fishing derby. Another launch option for smaller craft is Mariner Point Park in Joppatowne, closer to the intersection of the Gunpowder River, Big Gunpowder Falls, and Little Gunpowder Falls.

Western Maryland

While widespread Channa distribution hasn’t yet reached Maryland’s westernmost counties, catches have been recorded as far north as Dam No. 4 of the Potomac River. Targeting Chesapeake Channa in this region might prove difficult – most catches in the upper Potomac will vary between smallmouth bass, catfish, and walleye. 

For Western Maryland Channa anglers looking for better odds, Little Seneca Lake outside of Germantown can be worth the commute. Black Hill Regional Park in Boyds provides a boat ramp and kayak-launching area, though combustion motors aren’t allowed. Several types of watercraft can be rented on site for those without their own. Recent DNR surveys in Little Seneca Lake collected Channa in 11 of 12 sites that were sampled in 2023.

Find Your Own Honey Hole

With a few publicly available resources and a little research, anglers could be lucky enough to stumble upon a new Channa hotspot. Maryland’s public angler access map shows boat ramps, soft launches, parks, and other areas open to the public for fishing. The U.S. Geological Survey also keeps record of reported Chesapeake Channa – both via angler catch and surveying/sampling – and produces the result in their Nonindigenous Aquatic Species map. Use these resources to your advantage and make use of this fishery that Maryland anglers never asked for, but appreciate its sportfishing value nonetheless.

Family Life Committee for Calvert County Public Schools Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) is establishing a joint Family Life Committee of educators who work in CCPS and community representatives who reside in Calvert County for the purpose of reviewing and commenting on, and where appropriate, recommending instructional materials. Members will serve for a one-year term. The Family Life Committee will meet on the 2nd Monday of each month, January through May, at 6 PM. At the initial meeting, the purpose, expectations, and the process for reviewing materials will be reviewed. Following full group sessions, the committee may divide into an elementary and a secondary committee, where specific family life instructional materials will be reviewed and discussed. CCPS is asking for any community member or parent residing in Calvert County to consider serving on this committee. Eight community members and parents representing elementary and secondary schools will be randomly selected. An official notification will be sent to those who are selected by September 20. If you are interested in serving on the Family Life Committee, please complete the survey on this form: https://forms.office.com/r/DkdFYy9nsn by August 30. 

Join a Library Reconsideration Committee Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) is forming Library Reconsideration Committees for Elementary, Middle, and High Schools. These committees will review books that have been formally challenged for removal from school libraries. As a committee member, you will: • Read the book(s) under review. • Attend a training/orientation session (multiple dates will be available). • Participate in several committee meetings (if applicable), which may be scheduled during the day and/or evening. Meeting dates will be provided in advance. To be considered, you must commit to: • Attending the training/orientation. • Reading the assigned book(s). • Participating in all scheduled meetings. All materials will be provided to committee members at least 30 days prior to the review of a book. Committee members will serve a one-year term. CCPS invites all community members and parents residing in Calvert County to consider serving on these committees. Each committee will include administrators, teachers, librarians, students, community members, and parents, and will convene as needed. One (1) community member and two (2) parents will be randomly selected to serve on each committee. Official notifications will be sent to selected members by September 20. If additional committees are needed, members will be randomly selected from the original applicant pool. 

If you are interested in serving on a Library Reconsideration Committee, please complete the survey on this form: https://forms.office.com/r/4i6sgDBLD1 by August 30.

St. Mary’s County Health Officer, Dr. Meena Brewster, has been reelected to the Board of Directors for the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), the national association representing the interests of about 3000 local health departments in the United States. Dr. Brewster will serve another three-year term representing local health departments in the states of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia, as well as the District of Columbia. Dr. Brewster was first elected to the Board in 2022 and began her second term on July 1, 2025. 

“I am honored to continue to represent the local health departments of our region on the NACCHO Board,” said Dr. Brewster. “NACCHO is the premier organization representing the interests of local communities and the frontline health departments that serve them. It is critical that local perspectives are prioritized in national conversations about promoting a healthy America. Public health starts locally, with each individual and each community.” 

About Dr. Brewster
Dr. Brewster has been Health Officer for St. Mary’s County, Maryland since 2012. She directs the local health department in its multiple responsibilities, including prevention work and systems oversight for chronic illness, infectious disease, behavioral health, environmental health, emergency preparedness and response, health care access and support programs, and clinical services. 

Prior to her current role, Dr. Brewster was Medical Director for the Health and Human Services Commission and Chronic Disease Director at the Indiana State Department of Health. She has also worked previously as faculty at the Indiana University School of Medicine, teaching medical students and physician residents while providing clinical care to patients of all ages. 

Dr. Brewster is a primary care physician with training in family medicine and sports medicine. Her bachelor’s degree, MPH, and MD are from the University of Miami (FL). She has previously served as president and vice president of Maryland’s NACCHO-affiliate chapter.

About NACCHO’s Board of Directors
NACCHO is the voice of the country’s nearly 3,000 local health departments. NACCHO is governed by a 22-member board comprising local and tribal health officials who are elected by their peers, as well as one ex-officio member representing partner organizations. As the governing body, NACCHO’s Board of Directors establishes the association’s strategic direction and initiatives, sets the annual legislative agenda, approves official policy statements, ensures that annual goals are met, and provides financial oversight. The Board is NACCHO’s public face and represents members in matters of policy, public health practice, and collaboration with health partners in the public and private sectors.

Many Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) residential customers will see a credit on their electric bill in August, thanks to the Legislative Energy Relief Refund, a one-time statewide initiative established by the Maryland General Assembly and Governor Wes Moore to help offset high energy costs.

The refund, created through House Bill 1035 and administered by the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC), provides an average total credit of $80 per eligible household, distributed in two phases: summer 2025 and winter 2026. Credits will be applied automatically to eligible accounts.

To be eligible, members must have had an active residential account as of August 1, 2025, and must have used electricity during the 12-month period ending March 31, 2025.

“This refund comes at a critical time, especially during the peak summer months when energy usage is at its highest,” said Sonja Cox, SMECO President and CEO.

The credit is based on a member’s average monthly usage over the 12-month period ending March 31, 2025. Eligible SMECO members fall into one of three usage tiers, with higher-usage households receiving a larger credit. Tiers are defined as follows:

The refund will appear as “Legislative Energy Relief Refund” on page two of the August SMECO bill. A second credit will be issued in winter 2026.

For more information about the Legislative Energy Relief Refund, visit SMECO.coop/relief.

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

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

Chief Deputy Comptroller Andy Schaufele joined Lt. Governor Aruna Miller and Treasurer Dereck E. Davis in approving 101 initiatives representing $180 million in expenditures during Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting.  

The board approved $573,412.35 in compensation under the Walter Lomax Act for Tavon Tull, who spent 2,121 days in prison for a wrongful conviction before he was exonerated. 

The Board of Public Works also approved $1.5 million to the Western Scenic Railroad for infrastructure repairs and maintenance of railroad tracks and bridge structure crossings, including the North Branch Potomac River Railroad Bridge in Allegany County. 

Wes Heinz, representing Allegany County and the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Corp., thanked the board for its investment and noted that the railroad saw 82,000 visitors last year, generating more than $15 million annually in economic impact for the region.  

The Board of Public Works also approved awards of $90,962 and $311,500, respectively, to Campion Hruby Landscape Architects, and sculptor Branly Cadet to develop a monument on the grounds of the Maryland State House to honor African American soldiers who served in the Revolutionary War. 

In all, the Board of Public Works approved 101 items, totaling $180,873,228.54, in state expenditures, including:? 

• Grant agreements for 19 recipients for 19 projects located in 11 counties and Baltimore City with a total value of $15,126,000. 

• 11 items awarding $21,580,852.91 to prime certified small business primes. 

• Six items awarding $12,339,464.29 to certified minority business enterprise primes. 

• Two items awarding $3,360,383.05 to Employment Works Program providers. 

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

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

The next meeting of the Board of Public Works is August 27, 2025.? 

Commissioner Gilbert “BJ” Bowling (District 1) Town Hall meeting

September 10, 2025

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Hughesville Volunteer Fire and EMS (15245 Prince Frederick Road, Hughesville, MD)

Topic: General State of the County

For more information, visit Community Meetings | Charles County, MD (charlescountymd.gov),

A mix of wild celery (Vallisneria americana) and water stargrass (Heteranthera dubia), both freshwater underwater grasses. Photo by Brooke Landry, Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Underwater grass abundance in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay – a key indicator of water quality – fell from 38,188 acres in 2023 to 36,794 acres in 2024, according to data reviewed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. This acreage remains short of the state’s 2025 restoration goal of 79,800 acres.

The annual survey of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) was conducted by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science between May and October 2024. The Bay was fully mapped in 2024. 

In Maryland, despite an overall loss of underwater grass acreage, freshwater SAV populations did well in 2024 and all or part of five rivers surpassed their restoration goals. 

“The resilience we’re seeing in freshwater SAV beds this year is encouraging and reflects years of targeted restoration, outreach, and monitoring,” DNR’s SAV Program Chief Brooke Landry said. “But sharp declines in widgeon grass across the mid-Bay are concerning, especially given how quickly this species can respond to changes in water quality. These shifts underscore the need for sustained action to improve local conditions and maintain the habitats that so many Bay species rely on.”

Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) plays a critical role in the health of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. Commonly known as bay grasses, these underwater plants provide essential habitat and nursery grounds for fish, blue crabs, and other aquatic life, while also improving water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, stabilizing sediments, and slowing shoreline erosion. SAV also helps buffer the Bay against the impacts of climate change by sequestering carbon and reducing acidity in the water. Because of these wide-ranging benefits, the abundance and distribution of SAV is a key indicator of the Bay’s overall health and resilience.

In the 2024 survey, rivers surpassing their restoration goals include the North East River at 165%, the Bush River at 133%, the Back River at 275%, the upper Chester River at 274%, and Mattawoman Creek on the Potomac at 110%. 

Two additional segments reached 75 percent or more of their restoration goals. The northern Chesapeake Bay segment 2, which encompasses the Susquehanna Flats, reached 90% of its 12,149-acre SAV goal and the northern Chesapeake Bay segment 1, which is the area just south of the Susquehanna Flats, reached 88% of its 754-acre SAV goal. 

Several other rivers on the upper western shore that support freshwater SAV populations also began to recover from major losses in 2022 and 2023, with SAV gains in the Gunpowder and Middle Rivers as well as in the shallow waters of the Upper Chesapeake Bay mainstem. Freshwater SAV populations in the Bay benefit from high species diversity, which increases their resilience and enables them to recover from loss more effectively.  

The expanse of freshwater SAV populations was overshadowed by the loss of grasses in the mid-Bay, which supports underwater vegetation acclimated to slightly saltier conditions, like widgeon grass (Ruppia maritima) and sago pondweed (Stuckenia pectinata). Substantial losses were observed in Eastern Bay (-36%), at the mouth of the Choptank River (-41%), in the Little Choptank River (-83%), in Fishing Bay (-83%), and in Tangier Sound (-8%). 

Widgeon grass is the most widespread SAV species in the Bay due to its broad salinity tolerance. However, widgeon grass is sensitive to abrupt changes in salinity and water quality, which made it susceptible to loss after storms that delivered fresh, turbid water during the spring and early summer of 2024. 

Additionally, reports from the department’s SAV Program suggest that widgeon grass populations throughout Maryland’s tributaries appear to have produced fewer seeds in 2023 than normal. Seeds are an important component of this species’ ability to expand each growing season, and low widgeon grass seed production in 2023 combined with rapidly changing conditions during the early part of the growing season in 2024 may be the cause of the reduced SAV acres. Department scientists are looking into the possibility that widgeon grass seed production is impacted by abnormally high water temperatures.  

Protecting and restoring submerged aquatic vegetation is essential to the long-term health and resilience of Chesapeake Bay. These underwater grasses support a rich diversity of life, improve water quality, and help the Bay adapt to a changing climate. As the department continues to track SAV trends and respond to emerging challenges, collective action is key to ensuring that these vital habitats—and the benefits they provide—are sustained for generations to come.

The Calvert County Board of Education is transitioning to a new online platform, Granicus PEAK, to manage and share Board materials, including meeting agendas, minutes, and videos for both Board and committee meetings. This new platform will debut with the upcoming Board meeting on Thursday, August 7, at 6 p.m.

The transition from BoardDocs to Grancius PEAK reflects the Board of Education’s commitment to strengthening communication with the community and improving access to important public information. Families, staff, students, and community members can expect a more user-friendly and transparent experience when navigating meeting materials.

Agendas and minutes for meetings held after July 1 will be available on the new platform.

Be sure to tune in at 6 p.m. to watch the meeting live online.

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 August 29, 2025.

Current vacancies:

• Commission for People with Disabilities
• Commission on the Environment
• Economic Development Commission
• Human Relations Commission
• Recreation & Parks Board
• Social Services Board

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.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Aug. 4, 2025 – The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning invites residents to participate in the public adoption process for updates to the rules and regulations governing the Calvert County Agricultural Land Preservation Program. A public information session will be held Thursday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m. at the Harriet E. Brown Community Center, located at 901 Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Created in 1978, Calvert’s transferrable development rights (TDR) program was the first local land preservation program to be implemented in Maryland and remains one of the most successful in the state. The program’s goal is to guide development away from farms and forested land and direct growth to areas targeted for residential and commercial development. The rules and regulations have not had a comprehensive update since the program’s inception. An update is needed as the county prepares to reopen the program to applications for the creation of new Agricultural Preservation Districts (APDs).

The public information event is being held to present proposed changes, take questions and receive feedback and recommendations. Planning & Zoning staff will attend the meeting and be available to answer questions. APD owners and interested members of Calvert County’s agricultural community are especially encouraged to attend.

The public may also participate virtually through Zoom or by phone (audio only):

Toll-free: 301-715-8592

Meeting ID: 867 7696 4391

Passcode (if asked) #

To provide comment: *9

Residents are encouraged to participate through public comment or by observing upcoming work sessions and meetings. Public input will help

shape the future of the local land preservation program and contribute to the county’s vision of protecting its agricultural heritage and farm and forest land for generations to come.

Additional information and an anticipated schedule for the adoption process are available online at www.calvertcountymd.gov/AgPreservationUpdate.

For questions or further information, contact Jennifer David, rural planner, at 410-535-1600, ext., 2238, or email jennifer.david@calvertcountymd.gov or Summer Roen, historic/rural planner at 410-535-1600, ext., 2742, or email summer.roen@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.

Burglary: 25-59856 On July 22, 2025, DFC Ostazeski responded to the 8400 block of Sailboat Lane in Lusby for a reported burglary in progress. The investigation revealed that the homeowner observed a worker, hired to perform exterior work, unlawfully enter the victim’s bedroom. Deputies arrived on scene and made contact with an individual who initially provided a false name. He was later identified as Travon Dalonte Washington, 26, of Lithonia, GA. Washington entered the bedroom and stole a PlayStation 5. Washington was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where he was charged with Burglary - 1st Degree, Burglary - 3rd Degree, Burglary - 4th Degree, Theft: $100 to under $1,500, Obstructing and Hindering, and False Statement to an Officer.

Burglary: 25-60504 On July 24, 2025, DFC McCourt responded to the 5200 block of Mackall Road in St. Leonard for a reported burglary in progress. A preliminary investigation revealed witnesses observed a gray Ford truck parked in the driveway of a vacant residence, and a male suspect was seen kicking in the back door and entering a shed on the property. Deputies arrived on scene and observed the suspect vehicle exiting the driveway. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver was identified as Kevin Thomas Watson, Jr., 32, of Somerdale, NJ. A further investigation revealed Watson was in possession of freshly cut copper pipes in the bed of the truck, which matched damage observed at the property. Watson was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. He was charged with the following: Burglary – 2nd Degree, Burglary – 4th Degree Theft, Burglary – 4th Degree/Tools, Malicious Destruction of Property Value $1,000+, Malicious Destruction of Property Value Less Than $1,000, and Theft: $100 to Under $1,500 from Building.

CDS Violation: 25-60135 On July 23, 2025, DFC Huy was dispatched to southbound Southern Maryland Blvd. at Route 260 in Dunkirk for a reported stolen vehicle. The vehicle was located in the parking lot of the Dunkirk Walmart. Contact was made with the driver, identified as Brendan Anthony Morris, 25, of Upper Marlboro. An investigation revealed Morris was wanted on an open warrant through Prince George’s County and was in possession of a stolen vehicle. A search incident to arrest yielded a plastic tie-off containing approximately 10 grams of suspected cocaine and six Suboxone strips. Morris was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with: CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, Theft: $25,000 to Under $100,000, Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle, Failure to Return a Rented Vehicle.

Damaged Property: 25-59584 On July 21, 2025, DFC Grierson responded to the public beach access located in the 5500 block of Beach Drive in St. Leonard, for the report of property destruction. The complainant reported sometime between July 19 and July 20, unknown suspect(s) vandalized the wooden stairs with white spray-paint. The estimated value of damaged property is $40.00. 

Damaged Property: 25-60501 On July 24, 2025, Master Deputy Burgraff responded to the 500 block of Balsom Road in Lusby, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised his house and trailer were egged by an unknown suspects. The estimated value of damaged property is $100.00.

Indecent Exposure: 25-59944 On July 22, 2025, Cpl. Buckler responded to the Prince Frederick Library, located at 850 Costley Way in Prince Frederick, for a report of indecent exposure. An investigation revealed that multiple witnesses observed a male subject sitting on a bench outside the library with his pants down, actively masturbating. The suspect, identified as Robert Allen Rice, 58 of no fixed address, was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. Rice was charged with Indecent Exposure and Disorderly Conduct.

Indecent Exposure: 25-61050 4 On July 26, 2025, Deputy H. Jones responded to Firehouse Subs located at 641 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick for a report of indecent exposure. Upon arrival, Deputy Jones made contact with the suspect, identified as Robert Allen Rice, 58, with no fixed address. An investigation revealed Rice had been observed masturbating outside the restaurant in view of employees and customers. Further investigation determined Rice had been previously trespassed indefinitely from the property. Rice was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where he was charged with Indecent Exposure and Trespassing: Private Property. 

Theft: 25-59481 On July 21, 2025, DFC Aley responded to Calvert County Sheriff’s Office located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for the reported theft. The complainant reported sometime between July 14 and July 18, while staying at the Holiday Inn Express located at 355 Merrimac Court in Prince Frederick unknown suspect(s) stole cash from the victim’s hotel room. The estimated value of stolen property is $2,000.00. 

Theft: 25-59852 On July 22, 2025, DFC Aley responded to Calvert County Sheriff’s Office located at 30 Church Street, Prince Frederick, for the reported theft. The complainant reported sometime between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. on July 2, unknown suspect(s) stole the rear license plate off the victim’s vehicle. The estimated value of stolen property is $50.00.

Theft: 25-61161 On July 26, 2025, Deputy Pope responded to the Giant located at 10790 Town Center Boulevard in Dunkirk for a reported theft. The complainant advised that a female, later identified as Anita Marie Thompson, 38 of Prince Frederick, attempted to exit the store with a shopping cart full of merchandise, passing all points of sale without rendering payment. Thompson was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where she was charged with Theft: $100 to under $1,500 – Shoplifting. The total value of the stolen items was estimated at $968.63.

Trespassing: 25-61299 On July 27, 2025, at approximately 7:49 a.m., DFC Claggett responded to the 8500 block of N. Solomons Island Road in Owings for a report of a suspicious person. The complainant reported observing an unknown male take two Coors Light beers from a cooler located at the front of the residence and look into parked vehicles on the property. Upon arrival, DFC Claggett made contact with the suspect, identified as David Michael Eirich, 40 of Owings, who was found actively consuming the stolen alcoholic beverages. During the encounter, Eirich became uncooperative and made verbal threats toward deputies. Eirich was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property, Theft: Less than $100, and Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resources Center is proud to join animal shelters across the state in the return of the Maryland 3,000 adoption challenge, hosted by the Baltimore Animal Welfare Alliance. For the entire month of August, adoption fees will be waived to help thousands of animals across Maryland find loving homes. Though adoption fees are waived, all regular adoption procedures still apply.

“We’re thrilled to take part in the Maryland 3,000 challenge,” said Hollis Lampe, Animal Services Division Manager. “Every adoption makes a life-changing difference, not only for the animals but also for the families who welcome them. Waiving adoption fees allows us to remove

barriers and help even more pets find the loving homes they deserve.”

Since opening, the St. Mary’s Animal Adoption & Resource Center has been protecting, advocating for, and providing compassionate care to animals in need. The Animal Adoption & Resource Center takes in and oversees adoptions for a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, reptiles, small mammals, birds, and more!

The shelter is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from noon – 6 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon – 4 pm. Walk-ins are welcome; no appointment necessary! Residents can learn more about the Center, view animals available for adoption, and watch the live kitty cam online at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/animalshelter.

The Maryland 3,000 challenge was first launched more than a decade ago and continues to grow in participation and impact. In 2024, Maryland shelters collectively surpassed the goal with 3,119 adoptions. This year, with even more shelters participating, the goal is to exceed that total and place even more animals into loving homes. For more information and a full list of participating shelters, visit www.maryland3000.org.

(UPPER MARLBORO, MD) – Maryland State Police are seeking the public’s assistance in helping to locate a person suspected of a hit-and-run pedestrian crash early  in Prince George’s County.

The deceased pedestrian is identified as Leroy Wedge, 43, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland. He was pronounced deceased on the scene by Prince George’s emergency medical services personnel.

Around 6:20 a.m. Saturday Morning, Maryland State Troopers responded to eastbound Maryland Route 202 at Wood Branch Court for a report of a pedestrian-involved crash. According to a preliminary investigation, the pedestrian, later identified as Wedge, was attempting to cross Maryland Route 202, when for unknown reasons, was struck by an unknown vehicle. The unknown vehicle then fled the scene. Troopers believe this vehicle to be a 2012-2014 GMC Terrain or Chevrolet Equinox.

Maryland Route 202 was closed for more than three hours. The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Maryland State Police College Park Barrack at 301-345-3101.

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Deputy State Fire Marshals have charged 49-year-old Omar Shariff Harrison after determining he intentionally set a fire inside his home. At the same time, his wife and two children were asleep.

Just after 5:00 a.m. on August 1, the Charles County Sheriff's Office responded to a reported domestic disturbance at a residence in the 3000 block of Eutaw Forest Drive in Waldorf. Deputies had been called to the same address the previous evening following a domestic dispute between Harrison and his wife. At that time, the couple agreed to remain in separate parts of the house for the night.

According to investigators, Harrison's wife awoke around 5:00 a.m. to the sound of him moving around the home. She reported that Harrison entered her bedroom and began pouring gasoline on the bed where she was sleeping. He then poured a trail of gasoline down the stairs and ignited the bed sheets. Fortunately, she and their two children could flee the home safely and called 911.

Deputy State Fire Marshals were assisted by K9 "Taylor" and determined that Harrison had started the fire, but later extinguished it. The fire caused minimal damage, estimated at approximately $500. The incident was found to be directly related to the ongoing domestic dispute, during which Harrison reportedly threatened to burn the house down.

Harrison was taken into custody by the Charles County Sheriff's Office after a traffic stop and transported to Charles County Detention Center.

Harrison has been charged with attempted murder, first-degree arson, second-degree arson, first-degree malicious burning, reckless endangerment, and arson threat.

Harrison is currently held at the Charles County Detention Center and awaiting bond review. 

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter invites residents to adopt during the monthlong Clear the Shelters 2025 adoption event, beginning Friday, Aug. 1, through Sunday, Aug. 31. During this campaign, the shelter will waive adoption fees for all animals, made possible through a collaborative effort between Friends of the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners.

This year’s campaign also includes participation in the Maryland 3,000 Adoption Challenge, a statewide initiative aiming to place at least 3,000 animals in homes throughout August. By joining both efforts, the shelter seeks to increase adoptions for shelter animals, raise awareness about pet homelessness and help families find their perfect match.

Now in its 10^th year, Clear the Shelters is a nationwide campaign that is spearheaded by NBCUniversal Local, Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Greater Good Charities. Since 2015, the initiative has helped more than 800,000 pets find forever homes. The 2022 campaign established a new record, with more than 161,000 adoptions nationwide.

Animals of all ages are available for adoption, including dogs, cats, rabbits, roosters, pigs and more. Adoptions include spay or neuter surgery, microchipping, age-appropriate vaccinations, and a starter care package to help pets transition into their new homes. Standard adoption protocols still apply. All potential adopters will go through the shelter’s usual screening process to ensure each animal is placed in a safe, loving and appropriate home.

The shelter is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To schedule an intake appointment, call 410-535-7387. The shelter is located at 5055 Hallowing Point Road in Prince Frederick. 

 Follow the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter on Instagram at @calvertcountyanimalshelter and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.  

For more information about adopting from the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter visit www.calvertcountyanimalshelter.com/.

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

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office arrested Jayshawn Maurice Bartlett, 21, of Lexington Park, on Friday, August 1, 2025, on a District Court arrest warrant charging him with 25 counts related to a May shooting in Great Mills.

In the early morning hours of May 3, 2025, patrol deputies conducting proactive patrols around Chancellors Run Road and Pegg Road heard gunfire and immediately responded. At the scene, they located a vehicle with four male occupants. Three of the individuals had sustained gunshot wounds. The fourth occupant was unharmed.

Through investigative efforts, detectives determined the shooting stemmed from an altercation that had occurred the previous evening. On May 6, two suspects, Cameron David Louis Curtis, 22, of Valley Lee, and Peyton James Robert Curtis, 20, of Callaway, were arrested in connection with the incident. Both suspects remain incarcerated at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center, awaiting trial.

As the investigation continued, detectives identified a third suspect, Jayshawn Maurice Bartlett, 21, of Lexington Park, as also being involved in the shooting. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and he was taken into custody without incident.

Bartlett was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center and charged with the following:

• Four counts of attempted first-degree murder
• Four counts of attempted second-degree murder
• Four counts of assault first-degree
• Four counts of assault second-degree
• Firearm use in the commission of a violent crime
• Handgun on person
• Loaded handgun on person
• Handgun in vehicle
• Loaded handgun in vehicle
• Four counts of recklessly discharging a firearm from a motor vehicle

The investigation remains open, and anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Keith Moritz at 301-475-4200, ext. 8093, or by email at Keith.Moritz@stmaryscountymd.gov.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – The Maryland State Police is excited to join communities across the state for National Night Out 2025.

Since 1984, National Night Out has brought neighbors and law enforcement together on the first Tuesday of August. This year’s event takes place on Tuesday, August 5. Troopers from all 23 Maryland State Police barracks will partner with local law enforcement agencies and municipalities to connect with the communities they serve.

This family-friendly evening can include food, games, music, and more. Stop by and meet Maryland’s Finest.

• Waterloo – Blandair Park East, 5749 Oakland Mills Rd, Columbia, 5–8 p.m.
• Frederick –
  • Walkersville Fire Co., 79 W. Frederick Street, Walkersville, 6-8 p.m.
  • Urbana District Park, 3805 Urbana Pike, Frederick, 5-8 p.m.
• Cumberland – Bel Air Elementary School, 14401 Barton Blvd, Cumberland, 5-8 p.m.
• Bel Air – Harford County Equestrian Center, 608 N Tollgate Rd, Bel Air, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
• Salisbury – Salisbury City Park, Main Street & Snow Hill Rd, Salisbury, 5-8 p.m.
• North East –
  • North East Community Park, North East, 5-8 p.m.
  • Cecilton Carnival Grounds, Cecilton, 5-8 p.m.
• Westminster – Manchester Activity Grounds, 3209 Main Street Manchester, 5-7 p.m.
• LaPlata – Waldorf
  • Bel Alton VFD, 9765 Bel Alton Newtown Rd. Bel Alton, 5–7 p.m.
  • Brentwood, 8848 Bancroft Dr. Waldorf, 4:30–7:30 p.m.
  • Sheffield, 12416 Pawtucket Ln, 6-8:30 p.m.
  • Benedict Firehouse, 18210 Hyatt Avenue Benedict, 6-8 p.m.
  • Hampshire, Hampshire Cir, 6-10 p.m.
• Easton –
• • Bay Hundred Community Pool, 911 S Talbot Street, St Michaels, 5-8 p.m.
  • Moton Park, 501 Port Street, Easton, 5 p.m.
• Annapolis – Annapolis Mall, 2002 Annapolis Mall Rd, Annapolis, 5-8 p.m.
• Forestville Barrack & College Park Barrack–
  • Allen Pond Park, 3330 Northview Dr, Bowie, 5-8 p.m.
  • Accokeek VFD, 1611 Livingston Rd, Accokeek, 5-8 p.m.
  • Beltsville Station, 4321 Sellman Rd, Beltsville, 5-8 p.m.
  • Beckett Field, 8511 Legation Rd, New Carrollton, 5-8 p.m.
  • Baden VFD, 16608 Brandywine Rd, Brandywine, 5-8 p.m.
  • District Heights, 2000 Marbury Drive, District Heights, 5-8 p.m.
• JFK Highway – Harford Equestrian Center. 608 N. Tollgate Rd, Bel Air, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
• Rockville –
  • Downtown Silver Spring, 5–8 p.m.
  • East County Regional Services Center, 3300 Briggs Chaney Rd., Silver Spring, 4-7 p.m.
  • Hillandale Citizens Association, 10615 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, 5-7 p.m.
  • Oakview Community Association, 1100 Corliss Street, Silver Spring, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
  • Carroll Knolls Civic Association, 2600 Hayden Dr., Silver Spring, 7-8:30 p.m.
  • Tanglewood’s Apts., 9002 Manchester Rd., Silver Spring, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Hagerstown –
  • Shafer Park, 37 Park Drive, Boonsboro, 5:30-8 p.m.
  • Veterans Park, 68 W Water Street, Smithsburg, 5-8 p.m.
  • Widmeyer Park, 126 W High Street, Hancock, 5:30-8 p.m.
  • Byron Memorial Park, 11 Park Rd, Williamsport, MD 21795, Williamsport, 5-8 p.m.
• Glen Burnie –
  • 1001 Kinder Farm Park, Millersville, 6-8 p.m.
  • 10th Avenue Park, Brooklyn, 6-8 p.m.
• Golden Ring –
  • 5820 Edmondson Ave, Catonsville, 5 p.m.
  • Middleborough and Harland Rd, Essex, 5:45 p.m.
  • 1900 Northeast Avenue, Halethorpe, 4:30 p.m.
  • Chartley Park Shopping Center, 106 Chartley Drive, Reisterstown, 6:30 p.m.
  • White Marsh Volunteer Fire Co., 10331 Philadelphia Rd, White Marsh, 3 p.m.
• Centreville – 101 – 119 Lawyers Row, Centreville, 6-8 p.m.
• Leonardtown –
  • Joseph’s Community Center, 40610 Kavanagh Rd, Mechanicsville, 6-8 p.m.
  • Cedar Cover, Lexington Park, 6-8 p.m.
  • Woodmore, 43946 Sandy Bottom Rd, Hollywood, 6-8 p.m. 
• Prince Frederick –
  • • Bayside Forest, Dean Ave and Dares Beach, 6-8p.m.
    • Broomes Island Civic League, 4080 School Rd., Broomes Island, 5:30-7 p.m.
• Berlin –
  • • Ocean Pines Police Department, 239 Ocean Pkwy, Ocean Pines, 5-8 p.m.
    • Berlin Police Department, 129 Decatur Street, Berlin, 5-8 p.m.
    • Ocean City Police Department, 200 125th Street, Ocean City, 5-8 p.m.
• McHenry – Farmer’s Market Parking Lot, Oakland, 6-8 p.m.
• Princess Anne – Garland Hayward Youth Center, 30660 Hampden Ave, Princess Anne, 5-7:30 p.m.

For details, contact your local barrack. See you there!