The only thing better than a father-daughter duo is a father-daughter duo that wins a Grammy. Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) student Aura V and her father, Fyütch, won a Grammy Award earlier this month for the Best Children’s Music Album category.

The pair’s album soared beyond what they could imagine it would reach. “There are people who voted for us that we don’t even know,” Fyütch said. “I know the power of music.” “This form of expression is something that is fun but that I take seriously. It’s my form of activism.”

Born Harold Simmons III, using the stage name Fyütch (pronounced fyo?oCH), he established his solo artist career. “I started off writing poetry in middle school for a girl I had a crush on and that eventually led to me writing rap songs and freestyling with my friends,” he said. “By the time I got to high school, I started a couple of bands with my friends and after graduation we went our separate ways.”

At the age of four, Aura V’s singing career started when she was featured in a short soundbite on Fyütch’s album, “Family Tree.” As a fourth-generation musician, Aura is surrounded by music so her expression of it came as no surprise. “I thought she would be a drummer,” he said. “Growing up she would air drum and sing along to the melodies of the songs.”

“It [singing] brings me to another world,” Aura said. “It’s like my happy place,” she said. Her love for singing grew so much that she and her dad collaborated on a full album together. With no prior knowledge about the Grammys Aura quickly made it her goal to win the award. “I didn’t even know what the Grammys were and then we got nominated for one,” she said. And then they won.

Not only did the pair win the Best Children’s Music Album award, Aura V made history as now being the youngest individual Grammy Award winner, taking the title from Blue Ivy Carter, Beyonce and Jay-Z’s daughter who took home a Grammy in 2021 at the age of nine. “We didn’t think that we would make history with this award and the fact that she did that at age eight,” Fyütch said. “We were like ‘Woah’.”

Making history during Black History Month was never the goal, but once they realized what happened, their gratitude grew.

“I just want to say thank you,” Aura said. “I love it when people feel happy.” As a former educator, Fyütch wanted to pair his two interests, music and education for their Grammy winning album, “Harmony.” The father-daughter duo performs about the importance of education, family and gratitude for the world.

National School Breakfast Week Campaign “The Quest for School Breakfast” Encourages Students to Try School Breakfast

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Public Schools will celebrate National School Breakfast Week March 2-6, 2026, to encourage all students to grab a nutritious school breakfast so that they can start their day ready to learn, grow, and succeed!

Busy weekday mornings make it a challenge for many families to find time for a healthy breakfast. The USDA School Breakfast Program currently serves more than 16 million students every day. Studies show that students who eat school breakfast are more likely to:

? Reach higher levels of achievement in reading and math

? Score higher on standardized tests

? Have better concentration and memory

? Be more alert

? Maintain a healthy weight

The National School Breakfast Week (NSBW) campaign theme, “The Quest for School Breakfast,” reminds the entire school community that school breakfast provides a healthy and energizing start to the day for students. School nutrition professionals and students will be encouraged to show their enthusiasm for school breakfast from March 2-6 as the district celebrates with new breakfast offerings, cafeteria and classroom activities, and more.

Other events for the week include participating in the Hear the Maryland Crunch initiative with students at Green Holly Elementary School and White Marsh Elementary School on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Hear the Crunch is our annual nationwide synchronized apple crunch event designed to highlight the importance of the school breakfast program in ensuring that all students start the day off with the necessary fuel to learn and grow.

“A healthy breakfast at the start of the day is a great way to ensure students get the best education they can,” states Megan Doran, Director of Food and Nutrition Services. “National School Breakfast Week helps us educate parents and students about all the healthy, great-tasting, and appealing choices we offer.”

The district serves over 800,000 breakfast meals yearly through the federally funded School Breakfast Program. School nutrition professionals in St. Mary’s County Public Schools prepare breakfast and lunches every day that meet federal nutrition standards – limiting saturated fat, calories, added sugar, and sodium – while encouraging students to choose from a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains offered with school meals.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 27, 2026) – Detectives with the Criminal Intelligence and Vice/Narcotics Units, assisted by the Emergency Services Team, executed a search warrant at a residence in the 40000 block of Parsons Mill Road in Leonardtown, resulting in the seizure of cash and narcotics and the arrest of two individuals.

Following an investigation, detectives identified Joseph Tyrone Holton, 63, and Joan Marie Jones, 56, as suspects. On Feb. 26, 2026, detectives secured and served a residential search warrant at the location, where they recovered approximately 66.5 grams of suspected crack cocaine and suspected drug paraphernalia.

Holton was found in possession of $1,000 in cash. Jones was found in possession of suspected drug paraphernalia.

Holton was charged with possession with intent to distribute and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. Jones was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 27, 2026 – A Sanitary Sewer Overflow was reported to the Calvert County Department of Public Works, Water & Sewerage Division on Feb. 22, 2026, at approximately 8:30 p.m. The overflow occurred in the roadway near the 330 block of North Chesapeake Avenue in the Dares Beach community in Prince Frederick.

Approximately 100 gallons of untreated wastewater discharged onto the ground. The affected area is served by a low-pressure sewer system. Due to power outages associated with active precipitation from a recent snow event, pressure within the collection system was reduced, which minimized the overall overflow volume. No waterways or watersheds were affected.

Crews arrived on scene promptly with a vacuum truck to contain and remove the wastewater. The affected portion of the street was treated with lime as a disinfectant, and the damaged pipe was repaired immediately. At no time was there any interruption to water or sewer service for customers.

Signage has been posted at the treated area. The Calvert County Health Department and Maryland Department of the Environment have been notified of the release. For questions, please contact the Department of Public Works, Water & Sewerage Division at 410-535-1600, ext. 2329, or email WaterandSewerage@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.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) has again revised the 2025-2026 calendar to reflect the most recent use of an inclement weather day for students and teachers. As of Feb. 26, CCPS has used five inclement weather days. This moves the last day of school for students to Wednesday, June 17.  

The updated schedule is below and is subject to change if additional inclement weather impacts the CCPS operating schedule.  

• Tuesday, June 16: Two-hour early dismissal for students.  

• Wednesday, June 17: Two-hour early dismissal for students.  

• Wednesday, June 17: Last day of school for students (was previously June 16).  

• Thursday, June 18: Last day of school for teachers (was previously June 17).  

The online CCPS calendar has been updated to reflect these changes.  

CCPS built four inclement weather days into the 2025-2026 calendar. All four inclement weather make-up days identified in June 2026 are being used as make-up dates. Additionally, CCPS moved a closure day for students and teachers – Friday, May 8 – to a full day of instruction, giving CCPS another inclement weather make-up day.  

State law requires that students attend school for 180 days per school year. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) does allow school systems to request a waiver to the 180-day student attendance requirement. Waivers are not considered by MSDE until a school system uses all of its inclement weather days built into the calendar. CCPS has used all of its inclement weather days in the calendar, and adjusted May 8 to a day of instruction to make up for inclement weather.  

States of emergency do not bypass the legal requirement for students to attend school for 180 days.  

CCPS will re-evaluate the 2025-2026 calendar and MSDE wavier process as needed if additional inclement weather impacts Charles County.  

On Tuesday, Feb. 24, County staff briefed the Commissioners on progress toward strengthening institutional governance, highlighting continued advancements in workforce development, fiscal stewardship, operational excellence, and transparent community engagement.

To support a diverse and highly skilled workforce, the Human Resources Recruitment Division participated in 9 career fairs and hiring events in 2025 and is on track to increase recruitment activities by 50%. The County also maintained its Exemplar designation through the Healthiest Maryland Business initiative for the ninth consecutive year. In addition, employees participated in leadership development programs, including the National Association of Counties High-Performance Leadership Academy and Leadership Southern Maryland.

The County maintained its AAA bond rating for the ninth consecutive year and successfully completed a $75 million bond sale in November, with Piper Sandler & Co. as the winning bidder. Record funding was provided to the Board of Education without increasing property or income taxes. The County also implemented new property tax and utility billing software to improve efficiency and customer service.

To strengthen accountability and operations, the Internal Audit Office continues countywide audits and recently completed a review of departmental purchase cards, recommending enhanced oversight and documentation procedures. The County is also updating several key governing documents, including the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual (expected in Spring 2026), the Zoning Code (expected in late 2026), and the Comprehensive Plan (expected in early 2027).

Efforts to promote transparency and community engagement remain a priority. The Media Division expanded outreach initiatives, such as the Children & Family Resource Academy and the Charles County Unpacked webinar series, and launched the “31 Days of Engagement” social media campaign to encourage resident involvement. In April 2025, the County implemented SeeClickReport as its new Customer Relationship Management system to improve cross-department response to resident service requests.

Briefings

• Robert Romero, Chief of Transit, presented the Fiscal Year 2027 VanGO Annual Transportation Plan and Authorizing Resolution 2026-02. The annual plan is a required application that ensures compliance with grant regulations, identifies community mobility needs, prioritizes projects, and establishes a framework for the use of federal and state grant funding. Approximately $12.9 million in grant funding was requested for transit operations, along with an additional $2 million for capital assistance. The capital funding includes replacing 12 buses, repowering three buses to extend their service lives, bus stop improvements, and capitalized preventive maintenance projects. The Commissioners approved the resolution.

• Jacob Dyer, Director, and Samantha Chiriaco, Chief of Budget, Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, held a briefing on the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) General Fund Review – Second Quarter. They reported that the FY26 year-end revenue estimate increased by approximately $3.6 million since the September projection, reflecting stronger-than-anticipated performance in key revenue categories.

• Jacob Dyer, Director, and Kelli Scherer, Budget Analyst II, Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, held a briefing on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Funds from the ARPA Act are one-time federal funds that had to be allocated by Dec. 31, 2024, and spent by Dec. 31, 2026. Any surface transportation projects must be completed by Sept. 30, 2026.

• Jim Chandler, Director, and Chastity Durham-Butler, Acting Business Programs Compliance Manager, provided a briefing on the Business Enterprise Program, which implements changes recommended in the 2023 Disparity Study. Improvements include the launch of a Vendor Diversity Contract Compliance Portal to better support diverse businesses in County procurement and new compliance software. To date, approximately 900 firms have been certified through the Economic Development Department’s Small Local Business Enterprise and Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise programs.

Legislative Update

Danielle Mitchell, Acting Deputy County Administrator, held a legislative update on the 2026 Maryland General Assembly Session. Currently, four bills provided in the Charles County legislative package have been drafted and are scheduled for hearings. Senate Bills 572 and 952 are expected to be withdrawn.

The Commissioners reached consensus to invite representatives from the Board of Education and the Charles County Bus Contractors Association to their March 3 meeting to discuss SB 574/HB 1493: Student Bus Transportation Providers – Provider Displacement.

They also reached consensus to request certain amendments to SB 953 (HB 1497), Charles County – Rent Stabilization – Seniors, to make the bill enabling and to clarify that it applies to senior tenants who are party to a residential lease agreement. In addition, the Commissioners reached consensus to submit a letter of opposition to House Bill 916, Transportation – Regional Transportation Authorities.

Public Hearings

On Tuesday, Feb. 24, the Charles County Commissioners held a public hearing on Bill 2026-01: Compensation for County Commissioners. The bill enacts the 2025 recommendations of the Charles County Compensation Commission regarding commissioner compensation. The Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the bill.

Actions on Boards and Commissions

Charles County Commissioners took the following actions on county boards and commissions:

• Appointed James Slattery as a Member to the Board of Electrical Examiners. 
• Reappointed Ruby Thomas and appointed London Teele, Anjela Barnes, and Kenya Spencer as Members to the Historic Preservation Commission.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A Budget Transfer Request of $71,800 to increase the tourism event revenue received from the Mixtape concert series.
• A Budget Transfer Request of $219,000 to support concert expenses in the Recreation Fund from the Mixtape Concert Series.
• A letter of support for the U.S. Bomb Technician Association in its request for $950,000 in Congressional Directed Spending to establish a first-of-its-kind multi-jurisdictional bomb technician and HazMat training initiative in Charles County.
• A change order decreasing the contract amount by $2.2 million in the Landfill Cell 4B Construction Contract.
• A letter for a deer cooperator permit request for the National Park Services Piscataway Park.
• A request to light the courthouse lights blue for April (Autism Awareness) and green for May (Mental Health Awareness)
• A request for Community Support Funds from the Interfaith Commission to support its Iftar event in observance of Ramadan.
• A letter of concern regarding the recent sewage spills into the Potomac and Port Tobacco rivers. They also requested that representatives from the Maryland Department of the Environment attend an upcoming Board of County Commissioners meeting to brief the Board and residents on the status of the spill and next steps. Additionally, the Commissioners requested that a similar letter be sent on behalf of the Tri-County Council.
•  

Charles County Government’s Department of Planning and Growth Management has released a new public resource, Overview of the Development Process: Common Ownership Communities, Homeowners’ Associations, and Resident Guidance Document. The new guide is designed to help residents better understand how residential development works and clarify who is responsible for each component of the process before, during, and after construction.

As Charles County continues to grow, residents living in neighborhoods with Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) or Common Ownership Communities often have questions about development timelines, infrastructure acceptance, stormwater facilities, inspections, and the transition of responsibilities from developers to HOAs. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step explanation of the development process, from planning approvals and permitting to construction, inspections, and long-term maintenance.

The document explains:

• The roles and responsibilities of developers, the County, HOAs, and residents
• Key phases of residential development, including planning, permitting, and inspections
• How and when residents and HOAs can participate in walkthrough inspections
• Long-term maintenance responsibilities, particularly for stormwater management facilities
• Common questions residents have about roads, amenities, permits, and HOA governance

The guide also includes a comprehensive FAQ section and links to County resources, inspection contacts, and reporting tools to help residents address concerns and access public records.

The Overview of the Development Process Guide is available to the public at: https://charlescountymd.info/HOAGuide

For more information, residents may contact the Department of Planning and Growth Management at 301-645-0650.

We are pleased to announce the launch of the Charles County Department of Health (CCDoH) 2026-2031 Strategic Plan, which sets our course for the next five years. This plan, led by the Charles County Department of Health Leadership Team, reflects our foundational values of integrity, evidence-based decision-making, collaboration, health equity, and transparency.

As the public health landscape continues to shift in our County, CCDOH is committed to serving our community and working with partners to address emerging challenges and improve health outcomes. With our vision, a healthier Charles County, and our mission, to protect, promote, and improve the health, safety, and environment of Charles County residents, we will strive to accomplish five important priorities over the next five years:

· Modernize Technology: Effectively meet the growing and diverse needs of the community, to operate efficiently, and to be positioned for innovation and resilience.

· Internal & External Communications: Build public trust and connection, and better internal operations with greater transparency, condition, and responsiveness.

· Accessibility of Services: Eliminate barriers and increase equity in providing services to the community for greater reach and impact.

· Workforce Development: Further develop a skilled, values-driven workforce who are supported with a positive work culture to attract and retain talent.

· Service Delivery & Continuous Quality Improvement: Better meet community needs, drive lasting impact by ensuring services are maintained, continuously assessed, refined, and improved over time.

Supporting these priorities are our core values that define our culture and guide organizational operations: Integrity, evidence-based decisions, collaboration, health equity, and transparency.

We are excited to see what the next five years bring and invite you to join us on this journey toward collective learning and meaningful impact in our community. Thank you for your continued collaboration and support.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 26, 2026) – Detectives from the Criminal Intelligence and Vice/Narcotics Units, assisted by the Emergency Services Team, arrested Kevin Benjamin Berry, 38, of Mechanicsville, following the service of a search warrant as part of an ongoing investigation.

On Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, detectives located Berry in Lexington Park and took him into custody. A search of his person revealed multiple bags of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), suspected of being cocaine and crack cocaine. Suspected CDS paraphernalia and an amount of cash were also discovered.

Berry was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession with intent to distribute, and unlawful possession of an electronic scale used for the production of a controlled dangerous substance.

The suspect was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, where he is being held without bond.

CDS Violation: 26-13304 On February 10, 2025, at approximately 7:43 a.m., Deputy Angell responded to Calvert Repair and Parts, located at 3970 Old Town Road in Huntingtown, for the report of a serious motor vehicle crash. Upon arrival, deputies observed a single vehicle overturned on its roof. Deputies made contact with the driver, identified as Amanda Louise Phillips, 28 of Huntingtown, who displayed signs of impairment by a controlled dangerous substance. Phillips agreed to perform a series of standardized field sobriety tests, which indicated she was unable to safely operate a motor vehicle. She was subsequently placed under arrest and charged with Driving While Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance. A search of Phillips’ purse incident to arrest revealed six different varieties of pills for which she did not have valid prescriptions. Phillips was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis (x6), CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving, and other traffic related charges

CDS Violation: 26-14273 On February 12, 2026, at approximately 8:56 p.m., DFC Sylver conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for multiple turn signal violations in the area of S. Solomons Island Road and Thomas Johnson Road in Solomons. Upon making contact, the driver was identified as Nicholas Daniel Lokey, 32, of Dameron, and the passenger as Christopher Michael Cable, 35, of Dameron. Both subjects initially provided false identifying information, giving each other’s names in an attempt to conceal Cable’s suspended license status. K9 Atlas conducted a free-air sniff and alerted to the presence of narcotics. A search of the vehicle revealed multiple clear capsules containing white powder and residue, two cut straws with white residue, and other drug paraphernalia. Cable admitted the substance was fentanyl and stated he had used earlier in the day. Both Lokey and Cable were arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. They were charged with CDS: Possession- Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Fraud to Avoid Prosecution, and Obstructing and Hindering.

CDS Violation: 26-14058 On February 12, 2026, at approximately 10 a.m., Calvert County Sheriff’s Office deputies observed a driver remove an orange prescription pill bottle with an obliterated label and ingest a pill while operating a vehicle. Deputies initiated a traffic stop at the intersection of Solomons Island Road and Federal Oaks Drive in Sunderland. Deputies made contact with the driver, identified as Randal Mason Linett, 66 of Prince Frederick. Linett advised deputies he had taken a pain pill from the bottle and did not have a prescription for the medication. Additional deputies responded to the scene. A search resulted in the recovery of a quantity of suspected controlled dangerous substances identified as Oxycodone Hydrochloride pills, a switchblade knife, and a large amount of U.S. currency. A total of 283.5 suspected pills were recovered, with an estimated street value of approximately $5,477.50. Deputies also seized $1,403 in U.S. currency. Linett was charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Concealed Deadly Weapon, and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 26-14889 On February 14, 2026, at approximately 2:20 p.m., DFC S. Huy initiated a traffic stop with emergency equipment activated on a vehicle observed speeding in the area of Emerson Road in Owings. The vehicle failed to immediately stop and continued traveling on Emerson Road at a high rate of speed, nearly striking an Amazon delivery van while attempting to pass it. The driver ultimately brought the vehicle to a stop in the 300 block of Emerson Road. The driver was identified as Terrence David Brooks, 44, of Baltimore. Senior Deputy Idol and his K9 partner, Benji, conducted a free-air sniff of the vehicle. K9 Benji alerted to the presence of narcotics. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed: • Two tear-off baggies containing several Oxycodone pills • Two tear-off baggies containing approximately 5 grams of cocaine  • Two zip-lock bags containing approximately 118 grams each of cannabis • Additional empty tear-off baggies • Two cellular phones Brooks was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Cannabis, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 26-15239 On February 15, 2026, DFC Lewis responded to the Calvert County Detention Center for a report of found property. An investigation revealed that inmate Donald Sheldon Strickland, 46, of Great Mills, was in possession of a torn piece of suspected Buprenorphine (Schedule III) sublingual strip. Strickland was charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and Possession of CDS While Confined.

Fleeing and Eluding: 15018 On February 14, 2026, Deputy Morgal initiated a traffic stop after observing a vehicle traveling 98 mph westbound on W. Chesapeake Beach Road in Dunkirk. When Deputy Morgal activated his emergency equipment, the driver failed to stop and continued westbound onto Brickhouse Road at speeds reaching approximately 120 mph. The vehicle was observed traveling in the opposite lane of traffic and swerving across the roadway. The suspect vehicle attempted to turn at the intersection of Brickhouse Road and Windsor Drive, at which time the driver lost control. The vehicle left the roadway, struck an embankment, and ultimately came to rest in front of a residence on Skyvilla Drive. Deputies made contact with the driver, identified as Irvin Danilo Avelar Arrue, 32 of Dunkirk. A strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was detected on his breath. Avelar Arrue admitted to consuming approximately 8 to 10 beers. He was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and subsequently charged with Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving, DWI, DUI, Fleeing and Eluding, Driving without a License and several other traffic related offenses.

Property Destruction: 26-14011 On February 12, 2026, DFC Claggett responded to the 3300 block of Lancer Court in Dunkirk for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised that her vehicle had been parked in the Dunkirk Gateway Shopping Center on February 11, 2026, between approximately 4 and 5 p.m. During that time, an unknown suspect keyed the victim’s vehicle. Scratches approximately two feet in length were observed on the vehicle. The estimated value damaged property is unknown at this time.

Theft: 26-13723 On February 12, 2026, F/Sgt. Morder responded to the District 3 Station, located at 11780 H.G. Trueman Road in Lusby, for a reported theft. The complainant advised that an unknown suspect stole two handicap placards from his vehicle while it was parked at the victim’s residence in the 11800 block of Arrowhead Trail in Lusby. The estimated value of the stolen property is $100.00.

Theft: 26-14879 On February 14, 2026, Deputy Robey responded to the 5800 block of Long Beach Drive in St. Leonard for a reported theft. The complainant advised that two packages had been delivered to her residence and that the contents of both packages were stolen. The estimated value of the stolen property is $520.00.

Theft: 26-15312 On February 15, 2026, at approximately 8:10 p.m., DFC T. Bowen responded to Walmart, located at 150 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, Maryland, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised that on February 3, 2026, two unidentified males entered the store and concealed multiple Dove, Olay, and Native brand products inside a bag before exiting the store without rendering payment. The complainant further advised that the same suspects returned on February 14, 2026, and stole one Ninja blender, two air fryers, and two Shark steam mops. The suspects again exited the store without paying for the merchandise. The suspects were observed entering a gray Toyota Highlander with tinted windows. The total estimated value of the stolen property is $846.96.

Theft: 26-13405 On February 19, 2026, at approximately 1:25 p.m., DFC Newton responded to Giant Food, located at 10790 Town Center Blvd. in Dunkirk, for a reported theft. The complainant advised that four suspects fled the store with two shopping carts full of merchandise. The suspects were observed entering a dark gray SUV prior to leaving the area. The estimated value of the stolen property is unknown at this time.

Weapons Violation: 26-14658 On February 13, 2026, DFC T. Bowen conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for an equipment violation on southbound Route 4 at Hallowing Point Road in Prince Frederick. Upon making contact with the driver, identified as Jykiel Eugene Barnes, 25 of Prince Frederick, it was determined that Barnes was operating the vehicle on a suspended license. When Barnes was advised he was under arrest, he began to resist. During the encounter, Barnes informed deputies that there was a handgun inside the vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of a Glock 17 Gen 5 handgun and a loaded magazine. Further investigation revealed that Barnes did not possess a valid handgun permit. Barnes was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Driving on a Suspended License, Handgun in a Vehicle, Resisting Arrest, and was issued multiple traffic citations.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – A suspect wanted for shooting at a Maryland State Trooper on a traffic stop early yesterday morning in Baltimore has been apprehended and charged with attempted murder.                     

The accused is identified as Maurquise Emillo James, 22, of Baltimore, Maryland.  After consultation with the Baltimore City State’s Attorney, James is charged with attempted first-degree murder, felony assault, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and related offenses. He is currently held without bond in Montgomery County, where he is facing unrelated charges related to an additional violent crime.

Intelligence sharing and multi-jurisdictional efforts between state, local and federal law enforcement agencies resulted in James’ apprehension in Montgomery County yesterday at approximately 3:00pm. Police believe James was the driver of a 2009 Infiniti G37 involved in the incident.  Maryland State Troopers, in cooperation with allied law enforcement agencies, conducted authorized search warrants on two residences linked to James in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. Among evidence recovered was the Infiniti G37. 

Shortly before 3:30am yesterday morning, a Maryland State Trooper from the Golden Ring Barrack attempted to conduct a traffic stop for multiple violations on an Infinity at the intersection of Belle Avenue and Milford Avenue in Baltimore City. The vehicle was traveling with no headlights and no tags.  

The driver, later identified as James, pulled over at a stop sign.  As the trooper approached the driver’s side of the vehicle, James opened his door and fired two rounds at the trooper in close proximity before he fled the scene. The trooper did not return fire.

The trooper received medical treatment for his injuries and was later released from the hospital. He is currently on administrative leave as is procedure.

Throughout the investigation, Maryland State Police were assisted by local, state and federal law enforcement partners to include the FBI, officers from the Baltimore County Police Department, Baltimore Police Department and Montgomery County Police Department. Assistance was also provided by crime scene technicians and forensic scientists from the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division.  

Police continue to urge anyone with information related to this investigation to contact 410-653-4200. All callers may remain confidential. The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit continues the active and ongoing investigation.

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a stabbing incident that occurred Wednesday morning in Lexington Park. At about 8:20 a.m., deputies were dispatched to a residence on Colby Road for the report of a male victim suffering from multiple stab wounds.

When deputies arrived, they immediately rendered aid to the victim. Witnesses reported that the suspect, who was related to the victim, had fled the scene. Deputies quickly located the suspect in the area and took him into custody without incident.

Preliminary indications are that it was an isolated incident stemming from a dispute between the suspect and the victim.

The victim was flown to a nearby trauma center with injuries not believed to be life-threatening.

The suspect, Austin Timothy Blackburn, 29, was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown and charged with assault first and second-degree, where he remains incarcerated pending a bond hearing.

ST. MARY'S COUNTY, MD (February 25, 2026) - A joint investigation between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Maryland State Police continues after a barn fire claimed the life of a 62-year-old Chaptico man late Tuesday night.

On February 24, 2026, just after 10:00 p.m., firefighters with Leornardtown, Mechanicsville, and several other nearby fire departments responded to 36111 Roosevelt Boulevard for a reported barn fire with entrapment. 911 callers advised that a barn was on fire, and a person was trapped inside.

Firefighters arrived to find a 50-by-100-foot barn nearly fully engulfed in fire. Family members on scene confirmed that one individual was still inside the structure. After the fire was brought under control, firefighters located a deceased male victim within the barn.

Deputy State Fire Marshals learned that earlier in the evening, the victim had gone into the barn to attempt to jump-start a vehicle. According to the victim, he contacted her while working inside, requesting a fire extinguisher. When she went outside, the fire had quickly spread throughout the barn. During her attempt to reach him, she sustained burns to her hands and was transported to MedStar Washington Hospital Center for treatment.

The victim was located near a vehicle inside and was pronounced deceased at the scene by fire department personnel. He has been preliminarily identified as the 62-year-old homeowner.

The victim was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore, where positive identification and the cause of death will be determined. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

A joint investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction is standard procedure for all fatal fire incidents.

With great sadness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office announces the loss of one of our own, Ralph Jerome Butler, Civilian Security Specialist and retired Corrections Corporal, who died early this morning at his home.

Ralph was a treasured member of our agency, known for his steady presence and professionalism. He served as a Correctional Officer at the Detention and Rehabilitation Center for more than 23 years before retiring in March 2022 as a Corporal. Ralph returned to work as a professional staff member in June 2022, bringing his knowledge and expertise back to the Detention Center.

Sheriff Steve Hall said, “When I think about Ralph, I think about the things that I love best about the people I work with, and that is how they go about doing their work in selfless, humble ways. Ralph was never comfortable in the spotlight; the only spotlight he was interested in was making sure it was put on the people who needed help. He was always looking for people in need and helping them find ways to ease their burdens. Ralph was one of the humblest people I’ve ever met. His is a loss that just can’t be replaced.”

His absence will leave an immeasurable void in St. Mary’s County. “Ralph was one of those very special people who touched our hearts,” Warden Mary Ann Thompson said. “He was always kind and trustworthy, and he treated everyone with respect.”

As our agency mourns this loss, our Peer Support Team, Critical Incident Team, Chaplains Corps, and Command Staff are actively supporting employees to ensure they have access to care and the resources they need.

We will share funeral arrangements and service information as they become available.

We ask our community to keep Ralph’s family, friends, and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Do you have an exemplary woman or young woman in your life? In honor of Women’s History Month, the St. Mary’s County Commission for Women (SMC CFW), in an effort to recognize as many phenomenal women in the community as possible, will virtually recognize all nominees for Tomorrow’s Woman and Woman of the Year throughout the month of March on their Facebook page.

In lieu of an in-person event in 2026, the SMC CFW will spotlight all nominees individually on social media to highlight their many accomplishments. Each nominee will also receive a certificate from the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County.

Nominations are open for women who reside in St. Mary’s County and who uplift the community through local volunteer efforts. Tomorrow’s Woman nominees must be at least 16 years of age and attend high school in St. Mary’s County. Nominating an outstanding woman is free and easy using the following links:

• Woman of the Year Nominations: https://bit.ly/SMCCFWWOY
• Tomorrow’s Woman Nominations: https://bit.ly/SMCCFWTW

Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026. Social media spotlights for both current and past nominees will begin on Monday, March 2, 2026.

The St. Mary’s County Commission for Women looks forward to recognizing the truly inspiring women who make a difference in St. Mary’s County. For more information, please contact the SMC CFW at SMCCommissionForWomen@gmail.com.

Don’t miss the nominee highlights throughout March! Follow the St. Mary’s County Commission for Women on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/StMarysCountyCommissionforWomen.

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 commendation to Dr. Deborah Dennie, Leonardtown Middle School Principal, in recognition of being named the Maryland Middle School Principal of the Year.  

The Commissioners then held a public hearing to consider an amendment to the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance to allow Use Type 28 (Day Care, Non-Medical) in the Resource Conservation Area (RCA) Overlay District. Public Hearing information is available for the community at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/PublicHearings.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the FY2027 Maryland Highway Safety Grant.
• Approved the updated Mutual Aid Agreement between the Calvert County, Charles County, and St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Offices.
• Approved the resolution restating the establishment of the St. Mary’s County multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation planning committee.
• Approved the budget amendment to reallocate $72,980 from electronic software maintenance funds to contract services for Aerial Imagery Capture.
• Approved the update to the Fire and Rescue Loan Policy.
• Approved the FY2026 Transportation Development Plan Grant Award on behalf of the St. Mary’s Transit (STS) system.
• Approved the final childcare facility agreement with the YMCA.  

•  

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

   

  The CSMC wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time and reconvened at 1:30 p.m. for a budget work session.

   

  Notice: Audio Technical Difficulties

  St. Mary’s County Government is currently experiencing a technical issue affecting the CSMC meeting room broadcasting system. As a result, live audio and video streaming to YouTube and Channel 95 is temporarily unavailable.

   

  While we work to resolve this issue, meetings will continue to be recorded in-room. These recordings will be made available post-production on the County’s YouTube channel and will also be scheduled to air on Channel 95 at a later time. We appreciate your patience as we work to restore normal operations.

Official meeting minutes and documents are available for the public online through the new Diligent Platform, by visiting www.stmaryscountymd.gov, and clicking on Board Documents.

The next CSMC Meeting will be on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room, on the 1st floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. There will also be a Budget Work Session that afternoon at 1:30 p.m. Meetings are open to the public and recorded for viewing on TV Channel 95 or 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.

NEW CARROLLTON, Md. (February 24, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today announced that the Maryland Digital Equity Coalition will transition into the Office of Statewide Broadband as a strategic step to align the Coalition with Maryland’s long-term broadband and digital equity goals. 

“Over the last three years, the Maryland Digital Equity Coalition has served as a great ally to the Office of Statewide Broadband to coordinate and support digital equity work across Maryland,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “This move only strengthens our work to connect every Marylander to high-speed internet and identify resources so all residents have equal access to work, wages and wealth.” 

The Maryland Digital Equity Coalition (MDEC) is a statewide partnership network composed of a diverse group of stakeholders, including state and local government agencies, public libraries, healthcare providers, senior centers, schools, non-profits, and community leaders. The MDEC network was founded in October 2023 through the University of Maryland Extension to serve as a statewide coalition and resource hub to accelerate digital equity work across all Maryland counties.

Since its launch, MDEC has grown to approximately 350 members and is guided by a Core Working Group that has steered the coalition’s work since its inception. The MDEC Steering Committee has led statewide convening and capacity-building efforts for digital equity practitioners. MDEC organizes an annual in-person Digital Equity Summit, providing a forum for collaboration and shared learning. In addition to the summit, MDEC offers seminars, training, and networking opportunities that support digital equity practitioners and strengthen connections across the field. 

“The Maryland Digital Equity Coalition is a critical asset to the work we do at the Office of Statewide Broadband,” said Ronnie Hammond, Director of the Office of Statewide Broadband. “We are grateful for the knowledge and passion of MDEC members and are excited for what it means for digital equity in Maryland.”

Today, MDEC, under the Office of Statewide Broadband, operates as a statewide resource hub and collaborative network, supporting organizations working to expand broadband access, device availability, and digital skills training.

“The Maryland Digital Equity Coalition was launched through University of Maryland Extension to serve as a statewide convening backbone, leveraging our presence in every jurisdiction to accelerate digital equity efforts,”  said Isaias Tesfalidet, Project Director, Marylanders Online, University of Maryland Extension. “We are proud to see this work transition to the Office of Statewide Broadband, where it will benefit from sustained institutional support and continue advancing digital opportunities for every Marylander.”

The Office of Statewide Broadband partners with the private sector and local jurisdictions to connect communities underserved by the current internet infrastructure.? In Fiscal Year 2025, OSB completed 80 projects and connected 71,498 households, including 200 homes and businesses on Smith Island, a remote Somerset County community located on the Chesapeake Bay.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 24, 2026) – On Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, while conducting proactive patrol operations in Lexington Park, a deputy from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office initiated a stop for a traffic violation on a 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe and discovered a quantity of controlled substances (CDS) in the vehicle and on the driver.

Additional units, including K-9, responded to the area, and a free-air sniff of the vehicle by K-9 Kyra yielded a positive alert for possible CDS. As a result, the vehicle and driver were searched.

During the search, deputies located cash, bags of suspected cocaine, and a bag of suspected crack cocaine on the driver, identified as David Leroy Harvey, Jr., 33, of Great Mills. Additional cash and suspected CDS paraphernalia were located inside the vehicle.

Harvey was arrested and transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, where he was charged with CDS possession and possession with intent to distribute. The suspect remains incarcerated pending a bond review.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 24, 2026 – The Department of Public Safety’s Career Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division and Calvert Advanced Life Support, in partnership with the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners, announced the launch of its Low-Titer Type O Positive (LTO+) Whole Blood Field Transfusion Program.

Development of the program was accelerated following a critical incident in which Deputy James Flynt of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office sustained a gunshot wound while pursuing a suspect. Flynt received whole blood after arriving at CalvertHealth Medical Center. Without the availability of whole blood at the hospital, he likely would not have survived. His survival underscores the importance of early recognition of the need for transfusion by EMS clinicians and hospital staff, and the critical role timely blood administration plays in trauma care.

With this initiative, Calvert County becomes the fifth prehospital EMS agency in Maryland and the 270th nationwide authorized to administer whole blood in the prehospital setting, bringing a lifesaving, hospital-level intervention directly to patients when every second matters.

Whole blood transfusion, long established as the standard of care in military medicine, is increasingly being adopted by civilian EMS systems. Clinical evidence shows whole blood significantly improves survival outcomes for patients experiencing life-threatening hemorrhage, particularly in cases of severe trauma.

The LTO+ Whole Blood Program allows specially trained EMS clinicians to administer FDA-approved, low-titer Type O positive whole blood to critically injured or ill patients before they arrive at the hospital. Early administration provides valuable time for patients to reach definitive surgical care, dramatically improving survival rates.

“Delivering whole blood at the point of injury offers a critical advantage over traditional fluids,” said Dave McDowell, director of the Calvert County Department of Public Safety. “This program allows us to provide advanced, lifesaving care when it is needed most. We are proud to be the first EMS system in Southern Maryland to bring this capability to our community.”

Unlike standard IV fluids, whole blood contains all essential blood components: red blood cells, plasma, and platelets, providing oxygen-carrying capacity, volume expansion and clotting factors simultaneously. The LTO+ whole blood used in the program is considered safe for patients of all blood types and ages, with minimal risk of adverse effects.

Since Nov. 15, 2025, Calvert County Career EMS supervisors have been equipped with two units of LTO+ whole blood, along with specialized equipment required for safe storage and administration. Blood products are supplied by Inova Health System’s Division of Blood Donor Services and rotated every 14 days. Any unused units are returned to Inova for hospital use, ensuring no blood products are wasted.

“This program represents a major step forward in prehospital emergency care,” said Dr. Jason Finkelstein, jurisdictional medical director, who oversees the program. “By delivering whole blood at the scene, we significantly improve survival for patients suffering from severe hemorrhage. It’s about bringing hospital-level care directly to the patient when every minute counts.”

“This LTO+ Whole Blood Program reflects Calvert County’s continued commitment to innovation, advanced training and interagency collaboration,” said Todd Ireland, Calvert County commissioner president. “The county continues to strengthen its ability to provide the highest standard of prehospital care for residents and visitors alike.”

To commemorate the program’s launch, the Department of Public Safety will host a blood drive in honor of hometown hero Deputy James Flynt in partnership with Inova 

on Wednesday, March 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Department of Public Safety, 110 Main St., Prince Frederick.

For additional information about the LTO+ Whole Blood Program or the blood drive, contact Dr. Jason Finkelstein at Jason.Finkelstein@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 – Do you have paper documents with personal information that you’d like to purge? Or do you have unused, unwanted, or expired medications in your cabinets? This is your chance to dispose of them safely at the Community Shred & Medication Take Back Day! This event will be held on Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Department of Aging & Human Services (DAHS), located at 41780 Baldridge St, Leonardtown, MD 20650.

Shredding services, medication collection, and safe disposal of medical sharps will be offered, free of charge!

Participants may bring up to four boxes of documents to the site. Materials accepted include all types of paper except for newspapers and magazines. These items will not be accepted, as they will cause the truck to fill up quickly. The shredder can handle simple staples, paper clips, spiral notebooks, and thin metal prongs; however, it cannot accept 3 ring binders. Please limit the number of boxes you bring to four standard banker's boxes (10"H x 12"W x 15” D) per person, or the equivalent volume in alternate containers, so we can serve as many participants as possible. 

For more information, please contact, DAHS Community Programs & Outreach Manager, Nicoletta Pollice at Nicoletta.Pollice@stmaryscountymd.gov or (301) 475-4200, ext. 1074.

For information on safe disposal of medication and medical sharps such as needles, lancets, and syringes, please visit smchd.org/disposal.

This event is made possible by the St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services, in partnership with the St. Mary's County Health Department, St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office, and the St. Mary's County Department of Public Works & Transportation. St. Mary’s County Government appreciates these partners for their continued commitment to promoting safe disposal practices and protecting the health and environment of our community.

(BALTIMORE, MD) – A search is underway for the suspect who shot at a trooper while conducting a traffic stop early this morning. 

The suspect is the driver of a gray passenger vehicle, believed to be an Infiniti displaying partial license plates. Police believe the vehicle also has darkly tinted windows along with front end damage and broken headlights. 

The trooper is not being identified at this time.  He was transported to a shock trauma center for medical treatment of injuries sustained in the shooting. 

Shortly before 3:30am this morning, a Maryland State Trooper from the Golden Ring Barrack attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a gray Infinity at the intersection of Belle Avenue and Milford Avenue in Baltimore City.  The trooper approached the driver side of the vehicle to make contact with the driver.  The door opened slightly and shots were fired from inside the car towards the trooper.  The trooper did not return fire. The driver fled the scene traveling east on Belle Avenue.  

Troopers from the Criminal Enforcement Division, assisted by officers from the Baltimore Police Department and the Baltimore County Police Department heard the broadcast and immediately responded to the scene. EMS also arrived on scene and transported the trooper by ground to the hospital where he is currently receiving medical treatment.

Police are urging anyone who can identify the driver in this photo or who has information relevant to this investigation to contact police at 410-653-4200.  All callers may remain confidential.

The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit leads the investigation into the attempted murder of a Maryland State Trooper.  The investigation continues.  

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 22, 2026 – Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation facilities and Calvert County Convenience Centers announce early closures Sunday, Feb. 22, due to inclement weather. Parks & Recreation facility closures will begin at 3 p.m. and include:

• Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center

• All community centers 

• All recreation parks including Dunkirk District Park, Ward Farm Recreation & Nature Park, Hallowing Point Park and Cove Point Park. 

• Flag Ponds Nature Park

• Kings Landing Park

• Battle Creek Cypress Swamp and trails

Calvert County Convenience Centers will close at 5 p.m. and include: 

• The Appeal Convenience Center and Solid Waste Facility in Lusby  

• Barstow Convenience Center in Barstow

• Mt. Hope Convenience Center in Sunderland

County government officials will monitor conditions and determine if additional closures will extend beyond Feb. 22.  

For Calvert County Parks & Recreation closure announcements, visit www.facebook.com/calvertcountyparks/. 

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared in the event of an emergency by visiting www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/BeAwarePrepare and signing up for Calvert County ALERT to receive timely information about various emergency and non-emergency situations in the county.

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. 

A joint investigation between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office continues after a house fire claimed the life of a Mechanicsville woman early Friday morning.

At around 6:40 a.m., firefighters from the Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department and surrounding departments responded to 39580 Walnut Circle for a reported house fire with possible entrapment. Firefighters arrived within minutes to find heavy fire conditions throughout the two-story residence.

Due to safety concerns, including extensive hoarding conditions within the home, firefighters were forced to conduct exterior suppression operations as portions of the structure began to collapse.

With the assistance of heavy machinery, Deputy State Fire Marshals remained on scene throughout the day and later located the sole occupant deceased within the residence. Due to the extensive damage, the origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation.

The victim has been preliminarily identified as Karen Krenzler, 69. Her body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore, where positive identification and the cause of death will be determined.

“Severe hoarding conditions create an extremely dangerous environment, allowing fire to spread rapidly while blocking access for both occupants and firefighters,” said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. “In situations like this, those conditions can delay rescue efforts and significantly increase the risk of serious injury or loss of life.”

A joint investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction is standard procedure for all fatal fire incidents. 

(LA PLATA, MD) – Maryland State Police investigators from the Criminal Enforcement Division made two arrests in connection with the disposal of human remains from a crematorium in Charles County.

The accused are identified as Rosa Iyonna Williams, 48, and Brandon Angelo Williams, 50, both of Waldorf, Maryland.  After consultation with the Office of the State’s Attorney in Charles County, both were charged with eight violations each of the Maryland General Health Article §5-514, unauthorized disposal of a body.

Today at 9:00 a.m., Rosa and Brandon Williams were arrested by members of the Maryland State Apprehension Team at the La Plata Barrack without incident. They were transported to the district court commissioner for their initial appearance.

On February 10, 2025, investigators with the Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division, Southern Region, were contacted by the Office of the State's Attorney in Charles County regarding the Heaven Bound Crematory. After routine regulatory inspection violations were discovered by State Inspectors, the Office of the State’s Attorney in Charles County requested further criminal investigation by the Maryland State Police into any potential related criminal violations.

Maryland State Police investigators initiated a criminal investigation. On February 20, 2025, investigators subsequently conducted authorized search warrants at the business location for Heaven Bound Crematory, 4445 Crain Highway in White Plains and a residence located in Bensville, Maryland.  During the search of the residence, numerous items of evidence were located including documents, records, cremated human remains, and numerous decomposing cadavers. An intensive investigation followed to identify the human remains, contact their family members and to document additional evidence.

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman and Governor Wes Moore, along with representatives from partner agencies and key nonprofit partner organizations, will host an event to highlight the early impact of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Campaign and outline the next phase of expanded statewide outreach.  

The Earned It Campaign is Maryland’s all-of-government initiative to expand awareness and access to the state EITC, one of Maryland’s most powerful anti-poverty fighting tools. First launched in 2025, this year, the campaign is expanding significantly; mobilizing 13 state agencies and partners across the state to ensure that eligible residents are aware of the credit and know how to claim it. Since the start of this tax season, the campaign has already reached thousands of working families across Maryland and is now ramping up efforts to deepen community partnerships and expand visibility ahead of key tax deadlines.

The first public launch will celebrate early successes and detail how the campaign is scaling its impact, strengthening coordination across agencies, expanding grassroots outreach, and ensuring that every eligible Marylander has the opportunity to claim the tax credits they have earned.  

What: Event showcasing the progress of the Earned It Campaign, detailing success to date, and outlining next steps for expanding EITC access.  

Who:  

• Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman
• Governor Wes Moore
• Special Secretary Carmel Martin, Governor’s Office for Children
• Robin McKinney, CEO, CASH Campaign of Maryland
• Pablo Blank, Director of Immigrant Integration, We are CASA
• Tara McGuinness, Founder and Executive Director, New Practice Lab, New America

When: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 1pm 

Where: 

Comptroller of Maryland Greenbelt Branch Office                                                                                                                                                                                          6401 Golden Triangle Drive 
Suite 100 
Greenbelt, MD 20770 

Members of the press are asked to RSVP to Director of Strategic Communications Renesha Alphonso at ralphonso@marylandtaxes.gov 

[Friday, Feb. 20] A Charles County grand jury has indicted two Waldorf women on multiple felony and misdemeanor animal cruelty charges stemming from a December 2025 investigation.

April Nicole Ware, 51, and Jade Mahogany George, 20, were indicted on Jan. 30 on eight counts of aggravated animal cruelty and more than three dozen animal cruelty-related misdemeanors.

According to charging documents, during the overnight hours of Dec. 1, 2025, six dogs were placed in the night drop-off cage at the Charles County Animal Care Center. Two adult dogs and three live puppies were found in an emaciated condition and covered in bodily fluids, showing signs of severe neglect and maltreatment. A fourth puppy was found deceased by Animal Care Center staff.

Charging documents state that the dogs and puppies exhibited clear signs of neglect and aggravated cruelty.

Court records indicate that a bench warrant was issued for Ware on Jan. 30. George is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 27 for an initial appearance.

Anyone with concerns about animals in the community is encouraged to contact Charles County Animal Control at 301-609-3425.

St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) is exploring offering a virtual learning experience within our existing Virtual Academy for rising 9th-12th graders who are currently enrolled in home instruction. This initiative aims to provide eligible students with a comprehensive online educational option that aligns with district standards and offers opportunities for academic and extracurricular engagement. Please note: Submission of an application does not guarantee enrollment, as this Virtual Instruction program is contingent on community interest, funding, and resources.

The application window opens on Friday, February 20th, and will close at 11:59 PM on March 8, 2026. To apply, please complete the application here. Individual applications need to be completed for each student. For more details, please email virtual@smcps.org or call (301) 863-4090.

Extended season is being put in place to help watermen who have been unable to harvest due to ice-covered waterways

Photo by William Whaley, submitted to Maryland DNR Photo Contest.

Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources is moving forward with a two-week extension of the commercial  oyster season to help watermen make up for lost harvesting opportunities after many waterways and parts of the Chesapeake Bay froze during frigid temperatures in January and early February.

The change will extend the state’s commercial oyster season to April 14 this year. It was originally scheduled to end on March 31. Under the extension, all current gear restrictions and bushel limits will remain in effect. Handscraping for oysters in hand tong areas is not permitted under the extension.

“Maryland’s watermen have faced a difficult oyster season after recent declines in market demand and ice on waterways blocked access to traditional harvest areas,” said DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz. “This oyster season extension will give them additional opportunities to boost their livelihoods and the local communities where they live. DNR made this decision after extensive conversations with industry stakeholders and scientists. Coordinated oyster restoration and management efforts led by DNR have resulted in a multi-year increase of the overall oyster population in Maryland. We are confident that extending the season will not affect the ongoing resurgence of oysters in the Bay and local rivers.”

Oyster populations in Maryland are in the midst of a multi-year increase and are at their highest levels in more than two decades. The 2025 Maryland oyster stock assessment found that adult oyster populations in state waters had more than tripled to 7.6 billion oysters since a low of 2.4 billion oysters in 2005. 

The fall oyster spat survey, which documents how well oysters are reproducing, showed solid reproduction in 2024 after a record year in 2023 where oyster spat–or baby oysters–were documented at levels not seen in a generation in some places. In 2023, scientists recorded widespread spat distribution throughout the Bay and rivers as well as approximately 87 spat per bushel–nearly four times the median of 23.6 spat per bushel.

Prior to issuing the extension, DNR received a request to extend the commercial oyster season from the State Oyster Committee, which is composed of representatives from county oyster committees. The chair of DNR’s Tidal Fish Advisory Commission, which consists of commercial watermen and seafood dealers, reviewed and supported the requested extension and then submitted it to DNR for further consideration.

Chesapeake Bay ice coverage on Feb. 10. Map by National Ice Center

DNR is well aware of the ice impacts on Maryland waterways. Agency staff led ice-breaking operations on waterways using two different state vessels this winter to ensure navigation channels remained open and to help watermen access fishing grounds. Even with staff working around the clock to break ice, the frigid conditions led to waters quickly refreezing and kept many commercial fishing boats tied up at the dock and unable to harvest.

The extension will also support watermen during a difficult market for oysters. Despite wide availability of oysters in harvest areas, oyster sellers have not been buying as many oysters, according to reports from watermen. Many watermen have said oyster buyers during the previous two years have only been buying oysters from harvesters as little as one day per week, and sometimes less.

Marylanders can help watermen and local communities that depend on commercial fishing by purchasing Maryland oysters at seafood markets and restaurants.

DNR Sec. Josh Kurtz approved the two-week extension to the oyster season on Thursday and DNR posted the public notice on its website the same day. The new rule for the extension will be effective on February 23, 2026, and extends the commercial oyster season for all gear types through April 14, 2026. This does not impact the recreational oyster season, which ends March 31. 

Maryland’s Department of Health, Department of the Environment, and DNR coordinate closely and continuously to ensure that Maryland’s oyster-growing waters meet health and safety standards for shellfish harvesting under the National Shellfish Sanitation Program. This program ensures federal, state, and local agencies test shellfish growing waters regularly and oversee harvesting and processing to ensure oysters are safe to eat.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, advises that on February 19, 2026, the Maryland State Police filed with the District Court of Maryland Commissioner applications for statement of charges against Brandon Angelo Williams, age 50, and his wife, Rosa Iyonna Williams, age 48, both of Waldorf, in connection with alleged criminal conduct related to Heaven Bound Cremation Services, LLC.

The commissioner issued 8 separate counts for each defendant, with each count alleging the Improper Disposal of Human Remains. Seven of the counts refer to seven different fetuses and one count pertains to the remains of an approximately two-month-old infant.

In conjunction with this matter, the Commissioner issued arrest warrants for each defendant. Court dates will be scheduled once the defendants have been taken into custody and appear before the Court.

The charges against Brandon Angelo Williams and Rosa Iyonna Williams are allegations, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Commissioner Dr. Amanda Stewart Town Hall meetings

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Time: 6:00 PM

Waldorf Senior & Recreational Center (90 Post Office Road, Waldorf)

Topic: General State of the County

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM

Potomac Branch Library (3325 Ruth B. Swann Drive, Indian Head)

Topic: General State of the County

Saturday, March 28, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM

Hughesville Volunteer Fire Department (15245 Prince Frederick Roa, Hughesville

Topic: General State of the County

A Hyattsville man was recently indicted on animal cruelty charges by a Charles County Grand Jury.

Calvin Shamberger, 42, of Hyattsville, was arrested on Jan. 22, 2026. Two days earlier, on Jan. 20, Charles County Animal Control officers were called to the 9300 block of Crain Highway, where they obtained video footage of a male—later identified as Shamberger—allegedly beating a dog with a baseball bat.

According to charging documents, camera footage documented the alleged attack and showed approximately six minutes of the dog vocalizing in distress. The dog, identified as belonging to Shamberger, was seized and provided with veterinary care.

Maryland Case Search indicates that Shamberger was indicted on one felony count of aggravated cruelty to an animal and three animal cruelty-related misdemeanors. He is due back in court on March 13, 2026, for an initial appearance.

If you have concerns about animals in your community, please call Charles County Animal Control by calling 301-609-3425.

Fugitive with numerous active warrants for violent crimes apprehended: On January 26, 2026, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Warrant Unit, in coordination with the United States Marshals Service Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force (CARFTF), successfully located and apprehended Brandon Gerald Jernigan, 40, of Jackson, Mississippi, who was wanted in connection with multiple violent offenses across several jurisdictions. On October 18, 2023, an arrest warrant was obtained by the Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) charging Jernigan with armed robbery, firearm use during a felony crime of violence, first-degree assault, theft and numerous firearm?related offenses. A bench warrant was later issued for Jernigan when he failed to appear in court in March 2025.  

Investigators developed information indicating that Jernigan was staying in Martinsburg, West Virginia. On January 29, 2026, CARFTF members, working alongside members of the CCSO Criminal Investigations Division, the Mountain State Fugitive Task Force of the Northern District of West Virginia, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, located and arrested Jernigan. He was extradited to Charles County and is currently being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking to identify and locate a suspect in connection with a theft.

On Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, at approximately 2:40 p.m., the subject shown in these surveillance camera images entered the Birdies convenience store in Mechanicsville, used the ATM to withdraw money, and then found and took an additional amount of cash that the previous ATM user had forgotten to take.

The suspect, described as a white male dressed in brown pants, a blue jacket, and a light-colored hat, left the store in a dark blue Chevrolet truck.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Deputy Myles Chase-Johnson at 301-475-4200, ext. 8175, or by email at Myles.ChaseJohnson@stmaryscountymd.gov. Please reference case #2026-6711.

Tipsters can also submit tips anonymously and may be eligible for a cash reward if the information leads to an arrest.
 

• Text 847411, starting your message with “SMCSO”, add a space, and then your tip.
• Online: Submit a tip through the Sheriff’s Office website at www.FirstSheriff.com/tips.
• App: Send a tip directly through the SMCSO app. Download the free app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Phone: Call the Crime Solvers line at 301-475-3333.

With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 18, 2026 – Join Calvert County Government for an informational session to learn about the county’s residential permitting process and recent system improvements on Monday, March 9, at 6 p.m. at the County Administration Building, 150 Main St., Prince Frederick.

There will be one presentation involving representatives from Planning & Zoning, Public Works, Environmental Health and Soil Conservation. The session is designed to help residents understand the permitting process and the new improvements to streamline it.

The session is purely informational and is not a public hearing. Residents may submit questions, but there is no public comment period. Questions may be submitted in advance online at www.calvertcountymd.gov/SubmitPermitQuestions or submitted at the session. Representatives will collect questions from the public during the session, and questions not answered during the session will be answered online afterward.

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.

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman joined Governor Wes Moore and Treasurer Dereck Davis today for a meeting of the Board of Public Works.  

During the meeting, the Board of Public Works approved a policy guidance establishing Maryland’s first climate advisory mandate. This advisory, originally proposed by former State Treasurer Nancy Kopp and outlined in Comptroller Lierman’s 2023 Transition Report, requires most State agencies and all public higher education institutions to include climate and sustainability information when submitting specific contracts for Board approval. Starting in July, qualifying agenda items will include details explaining how proposed actions align with Maryland’s environmental laws, climate goals, and resilience priorities, including the State’s goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2035 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045.

“Maryland has some of the most ambitious climate goals in the nation, but goals only matter if they inform decisions,” said Comptroller Brooke Lierman. “By requiring agencies to outline how major contracts align with our climate commitments, we’re making sure those goals are reflected in the real, day-to-day investments that shape our state’s future.”

The new guidance applies to certain high-value contracts and large tenant leases across agencies, including, but not limited to, the Department of General Services, the Maryland Department of Transportation, the Maryland Stadium Authority, and all public higher education institutions. By incorporating this information into the Board’s review process, the policy strengthens transparency and ensures that long-term environmental and fiscal considerations are visible as taxpayer dollars are invested. The advisory will go into effect on July 1, 2026. All Board of Public Works advisories can be found here.

In all, the Board of Public Works approved 149 items, representing a total State expenditure of $627,238,712. This includes:

• Grant agreements for 58 recipients for 65 projects located in 14 counties and Baltimore City, with a total value of $48,995,500.
• 13 items awarding $50,635,602.96 to certified small business primes
• Five items awarding $35,596,160 to certified minority business enterprise primes
• One item awarding $3,485,861.44 to an Employment Works Program provider
• 13 items awarded with established participation goals for minority business enterprises
• Three items awarded with established participation goals for veteran-owned small business enterprises

Meeting documents for today’s meeting can be found here.

The next meeting of the Board of Public Works will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026

LEONARDTOWN, MD, FEBRUARY 18, 2026 – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that she is seeking reelection as State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County, pledging to continue to aggressively prosecute violent crime to ensure public safety for our community.

With more than 17 years of prosecutorial experience, Sterling was elected as the County’s top prosecutor in 2022. She took office as State’s Attorney on January 2, 2023, following a campaign focused on restoring integrity and rebuilding public trust in the St. Mary’s County’s State’s Attorney’s Office. 

In her three years as State’s Attorney, Sterling has kept her promise to prioritize the prosecution of violent crime, drug dealing, drunk driving, domestic violence, sex offenders, and repeat offenders. Through the determined prosecution of these crimes, she has achieved substantial increases in convictions and harsher sentences, all while upholding fairness and integrity in every case. She has also prioritized proactive communication with the community, reinforcing that transparency and accountability are the foundation of public safety and trust.

Under her leadership, Sterling has implemented significant advancements within the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office, including the creation of a Victim/Witness Services Unit to provide critical support to crime victims to guide them through the criminal justice process. She launched modern case-management systems to streamline operations and improve communication with law enforcement, and established an Evidence Review Unit to leverage modern technology in criminal prosecutions. These reforms were bolstered by securing a record amount of grant funding, resulting in a fiscally responsible and economically efficient office.

A long-time resident of St. Mary’s County, Sterling understands the unique challenges facing local families and neighborhoods. “The people of our county deserve a State’s Attorney who is independent, ethical, and focused solely on justice,” Sterling said. “My commitment remains the same today as it was when I first ran for this office, to put public safety first and to serve our community with integrity.”

Sterling’s accomplishments extend beyond the office. She has championed successful legislation in Annapolis aimed at strengthening laws for crime victims in St. Mary’s County and across Maryland. Her commitment to public safety is unwavering, and the progress achieved during her first term has made us safer today as she lays the groundwork for continued reform, to make us stronger tomorrow with continued results for years ahead.

To learn more about State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling and her reelection campaign, visit jaymisterling.com or follow State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling on Facebook at facebook.com/StatesAttorneyJaymiSterling or on Instagram at instagram.com/jaymisterling

Assault: 26-11535 On February 4, 2026, at approximately 10:21 p.m., Deputy Chase responded to the 6500 block of 9th Street in Chesapeake Beach, MD, for the report of a burglary. Investigation revealed that Jacob Tanner Papanicolas, 27, of Lusby, forcibly entered the residence by breaking the front door off its hinges and cracking the door frame from the wall. Further investigation determined that Papanicolas attempted to strike a victim with a basket and kicked her in the stomach. When deputies made contact, Papanicolas fled the scene on foot. Deputies apprehended him shortly thereafter. A strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was detected emitting from his person, and he appeared visibly impaired and extremely disorderly. During the incident, Papanicolas entered the roadway on Summer City Boulevard, causing vehicles to stop until deputies secured the scene. Papanicolas was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Fourth Degree Burglary, Second-Degree Assault, Intoxicated Public Disturbance, Intoxicated Endangerment, and Malicious Destruction of Property valued at $1,000 or more. 

CDS Violation: 26-11164 On February 3, 2026, at approximately 11:18 p.m., Deputy H. Jones conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for an equipment violation and suspended registration. During the investigation, the passenger initially provided a false name to deputies. She was later identified as Lisa Marie Thompson, 36 of Chesapeake Beach. Thompson advised she provided a false name because she had outstanding warrants. A probable cause search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of a glass pipe containing suspected cocaine residue, a metal rod containing suspected cocaine residue, and a cut red plastic straw containing suspected cocaine residue. Thompson was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where she was charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis;

CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia; Fraud – Personal Identification to Avoid Prosecution; and Obstructing and Hindering. CDS Violation: 26-12214 On February 6, 2026, at approximately 8:15 p.m., Deputy Parrott initiated a traffic stop for an equipment violation in the area of 7th Street and Frederick Ave in North Beach. Upon making contact with the driver, Michael Anthony Sellman, 47 of Washington D.C., a strong odor of alcohol was emitting from his person. Sellman submitted to a series of Field Sobriety Tests which determined he was unable to safely operate a vehicle. A search incident to arrest revealed a set of brass knuckles, two glass vials containing suspected Phencyclidine (PCP), and a “dipper” (a tobacco cigarette dipped in liquid PCP). Sellman was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. During an intake search, detention staff located an additional suspected “dipper”. Sellman was charged with Driving Under the Influence, Driving While Impaired, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, Concealing a Dangerous Weapon, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Disorderly Conduct: 26-11001 On February 3, 2026, approximately 2:24 p.m., School Resource Officer DFC Hudson responded to St. Leonard Elementary School in St. Leonard, for an unknown problem. Upon arrival, deputies observed a male outside the school who had allegedly entered the building and was yelling, causing a disruption to school operations and briefly preventing a school bus from exiting the parking lot. School staff advised the man was not authorized to pick up the child he was with and had not followed proper checkout procedures. The man refused to provide identification and did not comply with deputies’ commands. The child was safely returned to the school. A records check revealed the man had an active Maryland State Police warrant. Brion Wesley Brookins, 39, of St. Leonard, was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Disrupting School Operations, Disturbing the Peace, Obstructing and Hindering, and Disorderly Conduct.

Property Destruction: 26-12501 On February 7, 2026, Deputy Currie responded to the 4300 block of Dalrymple Road in Chesapeake Beach, for the report property destruction. The complainant advised an unknown  suspect(s) drew on her front door with black magic marker sometime between 3 p.m. on Feb. 6 and 6 p.m. on Feb. 7. The estimated value of damaged property is $300. 

Reckless Endangerment: 26-11374 On February 4, 2026, Deputy Hill was dispatched to a hit-and-run collision at Plum Point Elementary School involving a school bus and a white Chevrolet pickup truck. The driver of the truck was identified as Brian Paul Davis, 41, of Prince Frederick. Witnesses reported that Davis left the scene and was observed driving erratically and spinning tires while exiting the parking lot. Deputies responded to Davis’s residence. While canvassing the area, a second collision was dispatched involving a white Chevrolet in the area of South View Dr and N. Solomons Island Rd in Huntingtown. Upon arrival at the residence, Deputy Hill observed a white Chevrolet Silverado parked in the driveway. The vehicle displayed including yellow paint transfer consistent with a school bus. Additional damage was observed on the driver’s side, including dents, scrapes, and scratches consistent with a separate collision. Deputy Hill knocked on the residence door and, while doing so, heard knocking coming from inside the parked vehicle. A voice from inside the vehicle requested the door be opened. Upon opening the rear door, Deputy Hill located a 5-yearold juvenile seated in the back seat. Upon making contact with Davis, deputies detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from his person and observed that his speech was slurred. Davis initially refused to exit the residence but later complied. Davis was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Neglect of a Minor, Reckless Endangerment, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), Driving Under the Influence (DUI), Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving, and other related traffic offenses.

Sexual Assault:11703 On February 5, 2026, at approximately 12:51 p.m., DFC T. Bowen responded to the Calvert County Detention Center, located at 325 Stafford Road, Prince Frederick, for a reported sexual assault. Investigation revealed that an assault occurred between two inmates who were housed together. The suspect allegedly exposed himself, made flirtatious and sexual comments toward the victim, and slapped the victim on the buttocks. The suspect, identified as Samuel NMN Giles, 55, of Washington, D.C., was arrested and charged with Second-Degree Assault.

Theft: 26-11540 On February 4, 2025, at approximately 10:59 p.m., Deputy Campbell responded to Giant, located at 665 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for a reported theft in progress. Investigation revealed two males entered the store right before closing. One suspect grabbed two cases of Pampers, while the other male gathered additional merchandise. Both suspects exited the store passing all points of sale without payment. Suspect #1 is described as a black male, approximately 35 years old, 6’02” tall, slim build, wearing a blue hooded winter coat with a furlined hood, blue jeans, and an unknown item tied around his leg; mustache and a gap between his teeth. Suspect #2 is described as a white male, approximately 45 years old, 5’08” tall, slim build, wearing a tan jacket, tan pants, gray stocking cap, and a thick red beard. The estimated value of stolen property is $70.00. The case remains under investigation. 

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 17, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Public Works began a sidewalk reconstruction project in Solomons Tuesday, Feb. 17. The project will enhance pedestrian safety and improve walkability along Charles Street.

Weather-dependent construction will occur along eastbound Charles Street Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., between Charles Street and the traffic circle at Farren Avenue. Work will include 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.

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

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.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 17, 2026 – The Calvert County Board of Elections approved changes to polling locations and precinct boundaries as part of the 2026 election plan.

At its Nov.19 meeting, the board approved combining Precincts 3-6 and 3-7 into a single precinct, which will be designated as Precinct 3-6. Voters who previously voted at Northern High School, 2950 Chaneyville Rd., Owings, during the 2024 election will now vote at Ward Farm Park, 10455 Ward Rd., Dunkirk.

A permanent building is currently under construction at Ward Farm Park and is scheduled to be completed before June, when the June 23 primary election takes place. Voters in the Dunkirk area affected by this change should look for a new voter notification card in the mail.

The candidate filing deadline is Tuesday, Feb. 24. The Election Board will be open until 9 p.m. that day for local candidates to file. The Calvert County Election Board is located at 30 Duke St., in Prince Frederick. For more information, contact the Election Board at 410-535-2214.

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 – 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 March 6, 2026.

Current vacancies:

• Airport Advisory Board
• Animal Control Advisory Board
• Board of Trustees Museum Division
• Commission for Women
• Economic Development Commission
• Ethics Commission
• Human Relations Commission

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.

Comment period includes migratory game bird season proposal for the coming season

Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comment on proposed changes to the 2026-2028 hunting and trapping seasons and the proposed 2026-2027 Migratory Game Bird Seasons and Bag Limits. 

The public can view the proposed regulations and comment online, as well as view and comment on the proposed migratory game bird seasons and bag limits now through February 28. 

“We thank our many stakeholders who have worked with us on the latest set of regulatory proposals,” said Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer. “Public input is essential to setting our regulations and we look forward to receiving comments to help us further refine and finalize these actions.”

Some proposals include regulations on the use of drones for recovering injured or deceased game, providing electronic check-in for additional game species, modified requirements for firearms that can be used for deer and bear, and several other changes. 

Commenters are advised not to use names or personally identifiable information in the comments as these comments may b?e posted for public view on the DNR website.??? Hunters are also reminded that Sunday hunting is controlled by legislation and cannot be changed through the regulatory process.

In addition to online comments, the department is also accepting feedback by phone at 410-260-8540; by fax to 410-260-8596; or in writing to: Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Heritage Service, 580 Taylor Avenue, E-1, Annapolis, Maryland, 21401.

Maryland hunting regulations and licenses generally take effect on August 1 of each year, with new licenses valid from that date through July 31 of the following year. Licenses can be purchased starting July 1. Hunter’s education courses take place throughout the year for individuals needing to fulfill requirements or interested in furthering their knowledge and skills

Maryland hunting licenses, stamps, and permits can be purchased online through the MD Outdoors licensing website, at a licensing agent, or by calling DNR Licensing and Registration services at 866-344-8889. 

Hunting license fees go toward recruiting, educating, and certifying new hunters; acquiring and restoring wildlife habitats; maintaining and improving existing Wildlife Management Areas; providing technical assistance to landowners; and helping enforce wildlife laws and regulations for the benefit of all Marylanders.

Hunters or interested citizens with any questions may contact the Wildlife and Heritage Service at 410-260-8540.

NAVAL AIR WARFARE CENTER AIRCRAFT DIVISION, PATUXENT RIVER, Md. – The U.S. Navy calls on students across the Southern Maryland region to once again draw on their innovation and creativity to design Naval Aviation’s next jet in a competition hosted by the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD).

“America's naval air superiority is forged in Southern Maryland thanks to the aviation pros who call this region home,” said NAWCAD Commander Rear Adm. Todd Evans. “The Navy’s Next Jet Competition is our commitment to helping its next generation of talent take flight.”

The Navy’s Next Jet Competition launches on Feb. 16, and invites K-12th graders across St. Mary’s, Charles, and Calvert counties to submit their futuristic jet designs for a chance to win a tour of a NAWCAD squadron, meet the pilots, and experience Naval Aviation up close. The competition’s top designs will be featured in an exhibit at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum and showcase during Naval Air Station Patuxent River’s 2026 air show.

Naval Aviation leaders will judge student designs across the competition’s three submission categories – K-5th, 6th-8th, and 9th-12th grades – based on creativity, feasibility, and innovation. The competition details, including design and judging criteria, submission requirements, and more can be found at https://www.navair.navy.mil/nawcad/Navys-Next-Jet-Competition-2026.

The Navy’s Next Jet designs are due by March 13.

NAWCAD employs military, civilian, and contract personnel. It operates test ranges, laboratories, and aircraft in support of test, evaluation, research, development, and sustainment for all Navy and Marine Corps aviation platforms. Based in Patuxent River, Maryland, NAWCAD also has major sites in St. Inigoes, Maryland; Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Orlando, Florida.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 13, 2026) – Following an investigation into a fatal February 2025 motor vehicle collision, Zykera Sharnae Shubrooks-Nunley, 21, of Lexington Park, was indicted and charged via Criminal Summons.

On Feb. 9, 2025, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a collision in the 21000 block of Great Mills Road in Lexington Park to investigate a two-car collision involving a Nissan Armada and a Chevrolet Cobalt. The driver of the Cobalt, 59-year-old Kathy Mae Davis, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Deputies served the Criminal Summons on Thursday, Feb. 12, in which Shubrooks-Nunley is charged with four counts, including
 

• Negligent manslaughter
• Criminally negligent manslaughter
• Reckless driving
• Negligent driving

The investigation was conducted by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Reconstruction Unit.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 13, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Communications & Media Relations announces the launch of the new Calvert County TV app, now live and available to stream on multiple platforms.

The Calvert County TV app features live streaming, video on demand and important county information residents rely on to stay informed. Viewers can watch public meetings, special events, announcements and other county programming anytime and anywhere. The new platform makes it easier than ever for residents to connect with county government and stay up to date on what’s happening in Calvert County.

“Providing clear and accessible information to residents is a top priority,” said Eryn Lowe, director of Communications & Media Relations. “These new streaming options give the community more ways to stay engaged with county government.”

In addition, captioning is now available on live meetings broadcast on Comcast and Calvert County TV, expanding accessibility for viewers across the county.

To watch, viewers can:

· Download the free app by searching “Calvert County TV” on Android and Apple devices

· Stream on Apple TV, Roku TV, Amazon Fire TV and www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CalvertBroadcast

· Tune in on Comcast channels 99 and 1070 HD · View content on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@CalvertCountyGov

Download links for the app and streaming services are available at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CalvertBroadcast. Calvert County Government meetings are also available on demand at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/1520/Videos-On-Demand.

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.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) invites community members to attend an evening open house on March 19, 2026, offering an opportunity to tour two key community health facilities: the Spring Ridge Middle School School-Based Health Center (SBHC) and the SMCHD Health Hub in Lexington Park.

The open house will allow residents to meet staff at each location, learn about available services, ask questions, and pre-register for care. Both sites will be open to the public during the same time window.

Open House Details – March 19, 2026

Spring Ridge Middle School School-Based Health Center
19856 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park, MD 20653
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

SMCHD Health Hub
21625 Great Mills Road, Lexington Park, MD 20653
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

The Spring Ridge SBHC provides health care services to the entire St. Mary’s County community. Students, school staff, and community members can receive testing and treatment for acute illnesses such as influenza, management of chronic conditions including asthma and diabetes, and routine preventive services such as annual well-visits and sports physicals. The health department also offers an SBHC on the campus of Margaret Brent Middle School.

The SMCHD Health Hub offers a broad range of health and wellness services for all community members, including walk-in crisis services for mental health and substance use concerns, connections to primary health care, assistance with health insurance enrollment, employment support services, and additional wraparound resources – most available at no cost.

“These facilities are designed to meet people where they are and make it easier for our community to access care,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “This open house is an opportunity for residents to see firsthand what services are available, connect directly with our team, and learn how the Health Department can support their health and well-being—whether they need routine care, help navigating services, or immediate support.”

For more information about School-Based Health Centers, visit sbhc.smchd.org.

To learn more about the Health Hub, visit hub.smchd.org.

(WALDORF, MD) - Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred late Thursday night in Charles County.

The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene by personnel from Charles County Emergency Medical Services. Identification is pending an autopsy at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore. 

Shortly before midnight, troopers from the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to the area of Route 301 between Plaza Drive and St. Patrick’s Drive for a report of a pedestrian-involved crash. The preliminary investigation indicates that an on-duty Maryland State trooper was traveling northbound on Route 301 in a marked patrol vehicle when it struck a pedestrian who was walking in lane two of the four-lane highway. The pedestrian was subsequently struck by additional vehicles. 

Just prior to the crash, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office received multiple calls for a pedestrian walking in the travel lanes of Route 301. There is no crosswalk at the crash site. There were no other reported injuries. 

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration assisted with road closures, which lasted approximately two hours. Deputies from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office assisted on the scene. The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Maryland State Police Crash Team. Once the investigation is completed, it will be presented to the Office of the State’s Attorney in Charles County. The Maryland State Police will also conduct an administrative review, and the trooper has been placed on administrative leave as protocol.  

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact Sergeant Justin Zimmerman at 301-392-1231. 

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 12, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Community Resources is collecting new toiletry items for individuals in need in advance of its upcoming Community Resource Fair on March 27.

Donations for men, women and children are being accepted. Requested items include diapers and pull-ups, diaper wipes, body wash and soap, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

All donated items must be new and unopened. Donations will be accepted through Friday, Feb. 27. Donations may be made Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the following locations:

· Communications & Media Relations Office, 150 Main St., Suite 264, Prince Frederick

· Community Resources Building, 30 Duke St., Suite 102, Prince Frederick

For information about the toiletry drive, contact Community Resources at community.resources@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-1600, ext. 8803.

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.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 12, 2026 – Calvert County Emergency Communications has been recognized by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) as a Tri-Accredited Center for Excellence (ACE) for police, fire and emergency medical services dispatching. Calvert County Emergency Communications is the 31st Tri-ACE in the world.

IAED is the standard-setting organization for emergency dispatch services worldwide. Accreditation and reaccreditation from the IAED represent the highest distinction awarded to emergency communication centers, certifying that a center performs at or above established industry standards. Centers that earn ACE status are the embodiment of dispatching done right, and have demonstrated strong local oversight, rigorous quality assurance processes and a commitment to data-driven continuous improvement.

Calvert County Emergency Communications is a team of more than 40 public safety professionals who answer and dispatch emergency services for Calvert County. In 2025, the department answered 32,607 emergency calls and dispatched 135,075 calls for police, fire and EMS.

During this time, staff were credited with saving 19 lives, and the successful delivery of a baby.

“These numbers reflect the dedication, professionalism and life-saving impact that Emergency Communications staff make every day,” said Dave McDowell, director of Calvert County Public Safety. “Becoming a Tri-Accredited Center for Excellence 

highlights the professionalism, dedication and care our staff bring to every call. Our community depends on us during its most critical moments, and this achievement affirms our commitment to delivering accurate, timely and life-saving instructions when it matters most,” he said.

“Accreditation is truly a pinnacle achievement,” said Christof Chwojka, accreditation board chair at IAED. “We applaud the dedicated call takers, dispatchers and leadership team at Calvert County Emergency Communications for their commitment to quality, and for meeting that high standard that few achieve. We know their community can count on these first responders to do an outstanding job.”

Accreditation is valid for a three-year period, during which all standards must be upheld. Emergency communication centers can earn multiple accreditations, one for each emergency discipline they service. More than 3,500 emergency communication centers worldwide use the medical, fire, police and emergency nurse triage protocols developed and maintained by the IAED. The protocol-based system, known as the Priority Dispatch System, is recognized as the standard of care and practice for emergency dispatch, and is used in 46 countries.

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.

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place Monday, February 9 and Wednesday, February 11, 2026 from 6:30 p.m.-10 p.m.   

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

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

(CLEMENTS, MD) – Maryland State Police arrested a St. Mary’s County man this morning after an investigation developed evidence of the possession and distribution of child pornography. 

The suspect is identified as Leonard Nelson, Jr., 19, of Clements, Maryland. In consultation with the Office of the State’s Attorney in St. Mary’s County, Nelson was arrested and charged with two counts each of distribution and possession of child pornography, and seven counts of accessing and viewing child pornography. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center, where he is currently being held without bond. 

In December 2025, Maryland State Police received a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The investigation into the possession and viewing of child pornography led to the identification of Nelson as the suspect. 

Earlier today, troopers from the Maryland State Police Child Exploitation Unit and Leonardtown Barrack, along with federal law enforcement partners served a search warrant at Nelson’s residence in Clements. Nelson was interviewed and arrested on scene without incident. 

In March 2025, Maryland State Police arrested and charged Nelson with seven counts of possession of child pornography and two counts of distribution of child pornography. Nelson pled guilty in September 2025 and is awaiting sentencing.  

The Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit coordinates the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This is a combined law enforcement effort involving police departments across Maryland that is made possible in part due to grant funds provided by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy and by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Justice. Task force investigators focus on identifying those involved in child pornography via the Internet and other related crimes that victimize children.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 10, 2026) – The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is pleased to announce that the St. Mary’s County Health Hub has received two prestigious statewide honors: the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) 2025 County Innovation Award and the Maryland Public Health Association (MdPHA) 2025 Outstanding Public Health Program Award. These recognitions follow the Health Hub’s designation as a National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) Model Practice in 2024.

The MACo County Innovation Award recognizes exceptional county programs that address local needs, strengthen service delivery, and improve residents’ quality of life while demonstrating innovation and effectiveness in local governance. MACo is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that represents Maryland’s counties and advances the interests of local government before the Maryland General Assembly.

MdPHA, the state affiliate of the American Public Health Association, is Maryland’s leading professional organization for public health practitioners and advocates. Its Outstanding Public Health Program Award honors programs that demonstrate high-quality service, innovation, and measurable impact in improving access to services and supporting healthier communities across the state.

“These recognitions reflect the dedication of our health department staff and community partners to building services that are innovative, effective, and responsive to the needs of St. Mary’s County residents,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “We appreciate MACo and MdPHA for recognizing the Health Hub as a strong example of collaboration between local community partners to expand access to services and better support residents.”

To learn more about the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, its programs, and services, visit hub.smchd.org.

Middle school student in possession of cannabis: On February 10, a student at Matthew Henson Middle School, age 13, left his bookbag in an administrator’s office. The administrator detected an odor of cannabis coming from the student’s bag and further investigation revealed cannabis inside. The student was charged with possession of cannabis and faces school disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools in accordance with the student code of conduct. Parents are urged to speak with their children about the dangers of consuming products that contain potentially harmful substances.

Student in Possession of Vaping Device Containing THC: On February 10, school administrators at Westlake High School became aware of a student who was reportedly in possession of a knife and using a vaping device inside the school. The student was located and brought to an administrator’s office. A school resource officer (SRO) responded and, while checking for a knife, the student became uncooperative. For safety reasons, the student was placed in handcuffs. Two vaping devices were recovered, one of which contained THC. A knife was not located. As the SRO attempted to escort the student to the patrol vehicle, the student briefly resisted and did not comply with instructions. After a short period, the student began cooperating with the officer. The student was charged with possession of cannabis and disorderly conduct. He faces school disciplinary action in accordance with the Charles County Public Schools Student Code of Conduct.

Congratulations to the following personnel who were recently recognized for their exceptional performance as the NAS Patuxent River Sailors, Civilians, Supervisor, and Group of the Year for 2025.

SAILOR OF THE YEAR - NC1 (SW/AW/SCW/NAC) Frederick Salazar, Command Career Counselor

JUNIOR SAILOR OF THE YEAR - MA2 (SW/AW) Zachary Johnson, Command Physical Security Specialist

BLUEJACKET OF THE YEAR - AO3 (AW/SW) Nicole Quintana, Command Pay and Personnel Clerk

SENIOR CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR - Russel Bauer, Installation Training Officer

JUNIOR CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR - Daniel Garner, Airfield Services Division Subject Matter Expert

SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR - Stephanie Harris, Navy Housing Director for NAS Patuxent River

GROUP OF THE YEAR - Ground Electronics Maintenance Division

Full story and photos available at https://www.dvidshub.net/news/556642/pax-river-announces-sailors-civilians-year-2025

CDS Violation: 26-09788 On January 30, 2026, DFC Lewis initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle being operated by a driver with a suspended license in the area of Dares Beach and Wilson Rd in Prince Frederick. Contact was made with the driver, identified as Christopher Allen Gasch, 45, of Owings, who acknowledged that he was driving on a suspended license. An open-air sniff of the vehicle was conducted, during which K9 Benji positively alerted for the presence of narcotics. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a glass vial containing suspected methamphetamine, six hypodermic syringes, and a paper fold containing suspected methamphetamine. Gasch was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where he was charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 26-10058 On January 31, 2026, Deputy Contic initiated a traffic stop in the parking lot of Weis, located at 13300 H.G. Trueman Road in Solomons, after identifying the driver as having an active warrant.  The driver was identified as Dominick Tarzia, 56, of Martinton, Illinois. During the subsequent investigation, a search of the vehicle revealed approximately 14.4 ounces of cannabis packaged in four vacuum-sealed bags and one open zip-lock bag. Tarzia was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where he was arrested on the outstanding warrant and charged with CDS: Possession of Cannabis Over Civil Use.

CDS Violation: 26-09898 On January 31, 2026, Deputy Grabill initiated a traffic stop for an equipment violation. Contact was made with the driver, Emanuel Greenwell Guy, Jr., 61, of Lusby, who advised he did not possess a valid driver’s license and that the vehicle was not insured. A search of the vehicle revealed Suboxone strips for which Guy did not have a valid prescription. Guy was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where he was charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

Fleeing and Eluding: 26-08565 On January 26, 2026, at approximately 5:05 p.m., DFC Huy attempted a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle traveling southbound on Rt. 4 in the area of Ponds Wood Road in Huntingtown. The vehicle failed to stop and continued southbound at speeds exceeding 91 mph. The pursuit was terminated for public safety reasons. The vehicle was later observed traveling eastbound on Rt. 231 in Prince Frederick, driving into oncoming traffic. The vehicle entered a traffic circle in the wrong direction and continued onto Calvert Hill Road, where it reached a dead end and became disabled. The driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot. DFC Hill apprehended the driver, identified as Jeffrey Paul Voiers, 41, of Glen Burnie, who was found to have multiple outstanding warrants from various jurisdictions. A passenger, Joclynn Madisynn Tamar Jay, 21, of Glen Burnie, was located inside the vehicle. Jay reported she repeatedly told Voiers to stop the vehicle during the incident. A search of the vehicle incident to arrest revealed three glass smoking devices containing suspected cocaine residue. A search of Jay’s person revealed three Suboxone strips. Both individuals were transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. Voiers was charged with Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Kidnapping, Theft ($1,500 to under $25,000), and Fleeing and Eluding. Jay was charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis. 

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 10, 2026 – The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners announces county offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 16, in observance of Presidents’ Day. In addition:

· The Appeal Solid Waste Facility, which includes the landfill and transfer station, and all county convenience centers will be open Monday, Feb. 16, with normal operating hours.

· The Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be open Monday, Feb. 16, with normal operating hours.

· The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office will be closed Monday, Feb. 16. · Calvert County senior centers will be closed Monday, Feb. 16, and Meals on Wheels will not be delivered. Meal delivery is scheduled to resume Tuesday, Feb. 17. An additional meal for home-delivered meal recipients was provided in advance of the holiday. · All community centers will be closed Monday, Feb. 16. · There will be no county bus service Monday, Feb. 16; service will resume Tuesday, Feb. 17.

· Calvert Library locations will be closed Monday, Feb. 16. Downloadable materials and virtual services are available 24/7 at calvertlibrary.info/.

· The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed Monday, Feb. 16. Animal control officers will be available for emergencies at 410-535-3491. · The Calvert Marine Museum and Museum Store will be open with normal hours Monday, Feb. 16. · Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center will be closed Monday, Feb. 16., opening for regular hours Tuesday, Feb. 17. · Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center will be open Monday, Feb. 16, with normal hours. · All recreation parks including Dunkirk District Park, Ward Farm Recreation & Nature Park, Hallowing Point Park and Cove Point Park will be open with normal hours Monday, Feb. 16. · Chesapeake Hills Golf Course is scheduled to be open with normal hours Monday, Feb. 16. · Flag Ponds Nature Park, Kings Landing Park and Battle Creek Cypress Swamp will be open Monday, Feb. 16, with normal operating hours.

· Breezy Point Beach is closed for the season.

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.

Charles County, MD…Following a five-month investigation, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Enforcement Section served multiple search and seizure warrants at tobacco and vape shops found to be illegally selling cannabis. There are currently 18 tobacco and vape shops in Charles County and six were found to be consistently in violation.

In August 2025, detectives opened an investigation after receiving information about illegal cannabis sales at local tobacco and vape shops. During the investigation, detectives received information that a parent reported their elementary school-aged child potentially purchased a product containing THC at one of the shops, although that could not be proven.

Through their participation in the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) initiative, CCSO detectives conducted multiple controlled purchases of products from various locations, and with the assistance of a CCSO Forensic Chemist, evidence obtained during the investigation was expedited for analysis, confirming the businesses were selling illegal cannabis.

As the investigation continued, detectives learned that some shops were also selling loose cannabis concealed beneath counters to customers. Other locations were found to be intentionally packaging illegal cannabis in mislabeled containers advertised as hemp, CBD, or mushroom products to disguise their contents.

On December 19, the Narcotics Enforcement Section, with assistance from local and federal law enforcement agencies, served six search and seizure warrants at locations in La Plata, Waldorf, White Plains and Bryans Road.

During the service of the warrants, detectives recovered illegal cannabis, various THC products, production equipment, and U.S. currency from each location. The approximate street value of the recovered cannabis and THC products is more than $222,000. Additionally, over $40,000 in U.S. currency was seized.

“The illegal sale of THC-containing products is particularly concerning due to the impact these substances can have, especially with our youth. We are increasingly seeing young people affected by vapes containing THC, often marketed in ways that make them easily accessible and appealing to minors. We will continue to monitor tobacco and vape retailers and will conduct additional inspections and enforcement operations to ensure compliance with the law,” said Sheriff Troy D. Berry.

None of the shops are being identified at this time; however, the case will be presented to the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office and charges are pending the outcome of the investigation.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 10, 2026 – In the fall of 2025, the Calvert County departments of Technology Services and Planning & Zoning collaborated extensively on a major update to the county’s Land Management System. This system is used by several county departments to process and track permits and inspections.

Key enhancements to the system included:

· Integrating architectural review into the permit review workflow

· Incorporating the Board of Appeals processes directly into the system

· Updating components of the permitting, site plan and subdivision review processes to reduce manual staff intervention as applications moved through approval stages

· Revising development review workflows to align with the updated zoning ordinance adopted in 2025

“The updated system went live in November 2025, and has significantly streamlined Planning & Zoning operations,” said Jason Brinkley, director of Planning & Zoning. “These improvements enhanced customer interaction through the county’s online Encompass Portal for permit submittals and reduced the need for manual overrides by staff, creating a more efficient and streamlined process from application through approval.”

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.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Presidents’ Day. This includes the main office in Leonardtown, Health Hub, and School-Based Health Centers, and all satellite offices. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

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

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Jerome Damon Estep, 50, of Lexington Park, MD has been sentenced to 40 years in prison with 10 years of active incarceration for the possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

On February 22, 2025, Corporal Travis Wimberly of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop that revealed several baggies of suspected crack cocaine. Testing later confirmed the Defendant was in possession of approximately 23 grams of cocaine at the time of the arrest.

“My office remains steadfast in our commitment to removing drugs from our streets and holding distributors accountable” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Lisa Ridge, Chief of the Narcotics Unit, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Corporal Travis Wimberly of the St. Mary’s County Sherrif’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided over the case.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) is excited to host the 43^rd Annual Easter Egg Festival at the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds on Saturday, March 28, 2026. This rain or shine event will be held from 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. and is open to the entire community. This Southern Maryland spring staple will feature egg hunts for kids, live entertainment, free arts and crafts activities, face painting, delicious local food options, shopping from area vendors, and appearances by the Easter Bunny himself. 

Children up to age 12 can participate in the festival’s famous age-appropriate egg hunts. Each hunt features approximately 1,000 eggs, with special eggs containing prizes! Egg hunt tickets are $7 per child and will be available for online purchase beginning Monday, March 2, at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/Easter. General admission to the Easter Egg Festival is free.

Local businesses and organizations are invited to support this popular event through a variety of sponsorship opportunities. Several different sponsorship levels are available, featuring perks and benefits such as pre-event and onsite recognition, premiere booth space, and logo placement on event materials. To learn more, view the R&P Sponsorship & Partnership Guide at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/docs/SponsorshipPacket.pdf.

Vendor applications are now being accepted for merchandise, craft, information, and food vendors! Both returning vendors and new vendors are invited to apply now. As vendors are approved, they will be contacted by the event coordinator to secure space for a $60 fee. Vendor application instructions can be found at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/docs/eastervendorhowto.pdf.

Net proceeds from the Easter Egg Festival support the R&P Scholarship Fund, providing qualified children and teens with the opportunity to participate in an R&P program at an up to 50% prorated amount of the registration fee.

Festival information can be found at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/Easter. Residents with questions may contact R&P by email at RPinfo@stmaryscountymd.gov or by calling the Main Office at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1800.

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

The February 16 closure also includes:

• All three St. Mary's County Libraries (Charlotte Hall, Leonardtown, and Lexington Park).
• All three Senior Activity Centers (Garvey, Loffler, and Northern), and there will be no home-delivered meals.
• The St. Mary's Transit System (STS), including ADA and SSTAP.
• St. Mary's Animal Adoption & Resource Center.

The following SMCG operations will be open on February 16:

• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill.
• Department of Recreation & Parks programs and facilities.
• St. Clements Island Museum*, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum.
• Wicomico Shores Golf Course (normal hours); please note: the Riverview Restaurant is closed on Mondays.

*Note: the St. Clement’s Island Museum is operating on a limited basis due to construction. Additional details can be found here: https://www.stmaryscountymd.gov/pio/docs/2025-163NewsReleaseSCIMuseumConstructionClosure.pdf.

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

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

St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) will host a Community Shredding Event on Saturday March 28, 2026, from 8 a.m. – noon at the St. Andrews Landfill, located at 44837 St. Andrews Church Road.

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

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

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

For more information on DPW&T, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/dpw or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) is pleased to announce two exciting bus trips planned for Spring 2026, offering residents the opportunity to explore two iconic cities with convenient roundtrip transportation and free time to enjoy each destination at their own pace. R&P bus trips are a great way to travel without dealing with the hassle of driving, parking, and other travel arrangements.

Saturday, March 7: Philadelphia

Celebrate our nation’s 250^th year with a visit to the birthplace of American freedom! The bus will take travelers to the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district, where you can explore nearby Independence Hall, see the Liberty Bell, visit nearby museums or search for the city’s best cheesesteak. This trip also coincides with the world famous Philadelphia Flower Show. It’s your day, you decide!

Trip details and registration: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/docs/tripphilly.pdf

Saturday, May 9: New York City

Make this year’s Mother’s Day weekend one to remember with a day trip to experience the sights, culture, and energy of the Big Apple! With a drop-off point near Times Square, you can spend the afternoon enjoying spring in Central Park, seeing a Broadway show, shopping along Fifth Avenue and visiting some of the nation’s most iconic museums and restaurants. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to a favorite destination, this trip provides a fun and convenient way to explore New York City.

Trip details and registration: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/docs/tripnycspring.pdf

Register Online with CivicPlus

Online registration is now available for both trips through CivicPlus, the all-new registration platform for St. Mary’s County Recreation & Parks. To view the online catalog, visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/Recreate, then click “Online Registration”. You can find Bus Trips on the “Adults” tab, as at least one traveler in your group must be an adult.

For questions or assistance with online registration, please contact the R&P Main Office at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1800 or email at 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. 

(Pikesville, MD) – Investigators from the Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit raise awareness on Safer Internet Day with advice on how to exercise digital safety for all ages.

            February 10 is Safer Internet Day, a global rally that aims to raise awareness of emerging online issues as people of all ages surround themselves with a myriad of digital devices. This worldwide initiative educates people about issues from cyberbullying, human trafficking and social networking to the risks associated with using digital devices and how to stay safe when browsing the internet, not just in February, but every day.

            Safety on the internet includes the use of any device that has access to online activity.  Investigators from the Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit remind all ages to be vigilant as it relates to internet safety. Children and senior citizens are often the target populations for online criminal activity.  Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s use of all digital devices and senior citizens are urged to use the internet with caution, especially when asked to furnish personal information. Digital devices include laptops, tablets, desktop computers and cell phones.

Internet Safety Tips for Parents:

-continuously monitor your child’s online activity

-be aware of who your children are communicating with online

-talk with your children about online content

-remind children to avoid communication with strangers

-maintain control of apps downloaded on your child’s device

-be aware of what children see and hear and who they meet

-know what information your child is sharing

-more-

            Complaints involving the exploitation of children should be filed with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) at www.cybertipline.org or 1-800-THE-LOST. Complaints of child exploitation may include harassment, cyberbullying, and child pornography. Maryland State Police investigators in the Computer Crimes Unit work closely with NCMEC in the investigation of crimes involving child exploitation. If a child is believed to be in imminent danger, citizens are urged to contact their local police or call 9-1-1 immediately.

Internet Tips for Senior Citizens:

-use extreme caution when sharing personal information online

-avoid suspicious emails that ask for personal information

-avoid the release of personal information in an unsafe forum

-maintain adequate internet security

-avoid any requests for remote access to your computer

            Internet crime schemes that use the internet to prey on the vulnerabilities of people of all ages continue to cost victims time and money. Victims of internet-based crimes are encouraged to file complaints with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) online at www.IC3.gov. Complaints of internet-based crime may include hacking, credit card fraud, phishing, internet extortion and identity theft. The Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit works closely with IC3 in the investigation of these crimes.

The Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit urges people of all ages to take into consideration the vulnerabilities associated with online activity. The Computer Crimes Section operates and administers the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, which is comprised of police agencies statewide who work tirelessly to target offenders of child sexual exploitation.

The Task Force’s primary mission continues to be to protect children from computer-facilitated sexual exploitation.  This goal is achieved by cooperation between law enforcement agencies and prosecutors as they combine resources to combat these crimes.  The Task Force also provides community awareness campaigns helping to prevent the spread of these crimes through education.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Land Use & Growth Management (LUGM) has released the first draft of the St. Mary’s 2050 Plan and is inviting the community to review the document and share feedback to help guide the final version.

St. Mary’s 2050: Charting Our Tomorrow is the County’s long-range Comprehensive Plan that will shape land use, growth, and preservation decisions through 2050 and beyond. Input gathered during this 45-day review period will play an important role in refining the plan to ensure it reflects shared priorities, values, and future needs of the community.

The draft plan is available online at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/StMarys2050. Feedback may be submitted directly through the project webpage by clicking the “Participate Now” button. This online option allows individuals to review the plan at their own pace and provide comments on key topics and recommendations.  Paper copies of the plan are also available for review at all St. Mary’s County public libraries, senior centers, and the Health Hub.

In addition to online engagement, a series of in-person Open Houses will be held in February to provide opportunities to review the draft, ask questions, and share feedback directly with the project team. Details on dates, times, and locations for February are available here: https://www.stmaryscountymd.gov/pio/docs/2026-025NewsReleaseStMarys2050OpenHouses.pdf.  Stay tuned for more dates in March!

All feedback received—both online and in person—will be considered as the plan moves toward its final draft for consideration by the Planning Commission in late spring and the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County this summer.

To review the draft plan, submit feedback, and stay informed about upcoming engagement opportunities, visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/StMarys2050.

About St. Mary’s 2050

St. Mary’s 2050: Charting Our Tomorrow is an update to the County’s Comprehensive Plan and will guide future land use and development decisions while supporting economic vitality, environmental stewardship, and quality of life. Continued engagement is a key component of creating a plan that reflects a shared vision for St. Mary’s County’s future.

Love is in the air this February at the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter with the return of its Pawfect Match adoption special, running Tuesday, Feb. 10, through Saturday, Feb. 21.

In celebration of Valentine’s Day on Saturday, Feb. 14, and Love Your Pet Day on Friday, Feb. 20, the shelter is offering $14 adoption fees for cats and dogs. Bonded pairs adopted together qualify for a BOGO adoption deal, helping best friends find forever homes side by side.

Adding to the fun, prescreening forms will be printed as themed “matchmaking” quizzes on pink paper, giving adopters a playful way to discover their perfect pet companion.

Whether you are a longtime pet owner or a first-time adopter, the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter is dedicated to making the adoption process a joyful and rewarding experience. This Valentine’s season, residents are invited to spread the love by giving a deserving animal a forever home.

Find your perfect match by visiting the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information on the adoption process, visit www.CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com/Adoption.

To schedule an intake appointment, call 410-535-7387. The shelter is located at 5055 Hallowing Point Rd. in Prince Frederick. For more information about adopting from the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter, visit www.CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com. Visit the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter on Instagram at @calvertcountyanimalshelter and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal charged a juvenile after determining he was responsible for intentionally setting a fire inside a bathroom trash container at Mattawoman Middle School in Waldorf.

At around 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, Deputy State Fire Marshals were requested to assist the Charles County Sheriff's Office following reports of a fire inside the school. Investigators conducted an origin and cause examination and determined the fire originated inside a bathroom trash can. The fire was contained to the container and did not extend beyond it or cause damage to any structural components of the school. The fire was extinguished by school staff, and no injuries were reported.

A Charles County Sheriff's Office School Resource Officer and school administrators reviewed security camera footage and identified a 14-year-old male juvenile as the suspect. The juvenile later admitted to setting the fire. During the investigation, it was also determined that the juvenile had a water bottle containing lighter fluid, a water bottle containing gasoline, and a lighter.

In collaboration with the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services and the Charles County Teen Court Coordinator, the juvenile was charged with Malicious Burning Under $1,000 and was later released to his mother.

"Schools are meant to be safe places for learning, and fire has no place inside a school building," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "The quick actions of school staff made all the difference in preventing this from becoming a much more serious emergency and helped keep students and staff safe."

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 5, 2026) - The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office will conduct saturation patrols during the upcoming Super Bowl weekend to target impaired driving, speeding, and other dangerous traffic violations.

The increased enforcement initiative will place additional deputies on major travel routes and throughout communities across St. Mary’s County during one of the year’s busiest weekends for gatherings and celebrations. Deputies will be highly visible and proactive to prevent serious crashes and promote safe driving.

Before Super Bowl celebrations begin, drivers are encouraged to plan a sober ride home by designating a driver or arranging transportation.

To report a suspected impaired or dangerous driver, call 911 immediately. For non-emergency concerns, contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office at 301-475-8008.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 5, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation (CCPR) advises citizens that the Northeast Community Center will close Friday, Feb 13, at noon and remain closed through Monday, Feb. 16, for floor maintenance. Normal hours of operation will resume Tuesday, Feb. 17.

The Northeast Community Center is located at 4075 Gordon Stinnett Ave. in Chesapeake Beach. CCPR appreciates the community’s patience as we work to improve and maintain our recreation facilities.

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

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

Assault: 26-007187 On January 21, 2026, at approximately 5:47 p.m., Deputy Campbell responded to the area of Hollyberry Drive and Emmanuel Church Road in Prince Frederick, for a reported road rage incident involving a firearm. Upon investigation, it was determined that the victim was traveling on Dares Beach Road when she was tailgated by a silver sedan being operated in an aggressive and erratic manner. The suspect vehicle continued to follow closely and drive aggressively. The victim reported that the suspect vehicle eventually passed her on the shoulder of Dares Beach Road and then intentionally “brake checked” her by abruptly stopping in front of her vehicle. Fearing for her safety, the victim began recording the suspect vehicle with her cellular phone. The suspect vehicle then came to a stop in the roadway on Emmanuel Church Road. At that time, the driver of the suspect vehicle leaned out of the driver’s side window and pointed a black handgun toward the victim clearly visible in the video footage. The operator of the suspect vehicle was positively identified as Liza Sue Castles, 59 of Huntingtown. A search warrant was subsequently executed at Castles’ residence, where a handgun matching the firearm observed in the video footage was recovered. Castles was taken into custody and charged with First-Degree Assault and Reckless Endangerment. 

CDS Violation: 26-007629 On January 22, 2026, at approximately 9:21 p.m., DFC Lewis conducted a traffic stop for an equipment violation in the area of M.F. Bowen Road and Rt 4 in Huntingtown. A free-air K-9 sniff of the vehicle resulted in a positive alert for narcotics. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a clear glass smoking device containing white powdery residue with burnt ends and a clear glass vial containing suspected PCP. Both occupants, identified as Amy Michelle Drye, 46, of Sunderland, and Dontray Joseph Creek, 31, of Prince Frederick, were taken into custody. A search of Drye’s person further revealed a glass smoking device (crack pipe) with white powdery residue and burnt ends, a clear plastic tie-off bag containing several pills suspected to be Alprazolam, and $120 in U.S. currency. The currency was covered in a white powdery residue. Drye and Creek were charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute (PCP/LSD/Hallucinogen), CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 26-008396 On January 25, 2026, at approximately 12:50 p.m., Deputy Brown responded to the area of Thunderbird Drive and Chilsholm Trail in Lusby for a welfare check on a driver who was asleep behind the wheel in the middle of an intersection, blocking snowplow operations. Multiple attempts to wake the driver were unsuccessful, and deputies used a lockout kit to open the vehicle door, at which point the driver regained consciousness. The driver was identified as Christopher William Walls, 36 of Lusby. While speaking with Walls, deputies detected a strong odor of alcohol emitting from the vehicle. Walls was administered standardized field sobriety tests, which he failed, and he was taken into custody without incident. A search incident to arrest revealed CDS paraphernalia with white powdery residue (suspected cocaine), a digital scale with similar residue, and a large amount of U.S. currency. Walls was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis, CDS Distribution – Narcotics, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving While Impaired, and Driving on a Suspended License.

Theft: 26-008188 On January 24, 2026, DFC Dymond responded to the Calvert County Sheriff's Office located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for a reported theft. The complainant advised sometime between 7 p.m. on Jan. 23 and 3:30 a.m. on Jan. 24, an unknown suspect(s) broke into a property along Potomac Lane in Prince Frederick and stole a range and a microwave from a home under construction. The estimated value of stolen property is $1200.00

[Wednesday, Feb. 4] On Tuesday, Feb. 3, Charles County Commissioners continued their work on a proposed bill that would establish an Inspector General Office in Charles County.  Wes Adams, County Attorney, discussed several portions of the bill, including a provision that would allow civic organizations to have a role in evaluating members for the oversight committee. The County Attorney stated that the bill would be ready for introduction by March 3. 

Briefings

• Stacy Schaefer, Executive Director, Charles County Resilience Authority, presented the 2025 Year in Review. By year-end 2025, the Resilience Authority secured over $5.76 million for nature-based climate resilience projects across Charles County. Funding sources include the federal Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, as well as state and philanthropic funding initiatives. Highlighted projects include the continued construction of the elite Gymnastics Stormwater Pocket Park and the recently completed Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center Accessible Pocket Park.

• Renesha Miles, Chief Equity and Access Officer; and Elaine Pollard, Equity & Access Coordinator, briefed commissioners on a Quarterly Equity Update. Topics included the recent office rebrand, a definition of key terms related to their work, and their recent actions to foster equity in county government.

• Commissioners discussed proposed amendments to the Charles County Zoning Code. The conversation was based on a request by Dr. Amanda Stewart (District 3) to make several edits to the code related to retail sales establishments exceeding 100,000 square feet within the Urban Center, Mixed-Use, and Transit-Oriented Development zones. The proposed amendments would amend an error in the code and amend use classifications in the Mixed-Use and Transit-Oriented Development Zone. Commissioners gave consensus for staff to draw up legislation based on the amendment as well as a briefing on the potential economic impact.

• Commissioners discussed a proposed Project Labor Agreement Policy. The proposed policy would create a policy for labor agreement projects on contracts with an estimated cost of $20 million or more. The request would also establish a Project Labor Agreement Coordinating Committee to oversee proposals for approved projects. The committee's operational makeup would be established by the County Administrator and County Attorney and then approved by the Board of County Commissioners. Commissioners gave consensus for staff to come back with a look at how the policy would work if only applied to county projects, and if it would work on any commercial project.

Legislative Update

Danielle Mitchell, Acting Deputy County Administrator, held a legislative update on the 2026 Maryland General Assembly Session. Currently, Charles County Government bills are in the process of being drafted.  Commissioners gave consensus to provide letters of support when bills come in.

Commissioners also received updates on three housing-related bills: The Housing Certainty Act, the Starter and Silver Homes Act, and the Maryland Transit and Opportunity Act, which were a part of the Governor’s legislative package. Commissioners were also briefed on the “BAMBY Act,” a bill supported by the Maryland Association of Counties that would alter state oversight, zoning, and taxation authority for residential housing development. Commissioners gave consensus to send a letter explaining concerns related to the Housing Certainty Act, the Starter and Silver Homes Act.

Department Highlights

On Tuesday, Feb. 3, Commissioners heard highlights on the activities of the Department of Public Works.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A budget transfer request of $662,370 to cancel the White Plains Water Enhancements capital improvement project. Modeling scenarios indicated a minimal or insignificant decrease in water pressure due to future development; therefore, major upgrades are not recommended at this time.
• A budget transfer request of $1.88 million to cover modifications and technology updates to the government building auditorium to facilitate live and hybrid meetings.
• Façade Alterations to Blue Crabs Stadium for signage and color changes to the outside of the building.
• Direction to staff to begin a Comprehensive Plan Amendment that would amend the County's Land Use Map to match the rezoning that occurred in October 2024 for properties surrounding MD Airport, along with the corresponding Land Use District Table 3-3. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Superintendent of Schools, Dr. J. Scott Smith, announces the 2025-2026 operating calendar adjustments made by the Board of Education at its meeting on February 3, 2026, as follows:

? Monday, February 16, 2026 (Presidents’ Day) will be a school day due to an inclement weather make-up day

? The final day for students will be Tuesday, June 9, 2026, due to using all three built-in makeup days (pending any future school closings)

The calendar for the Chesapeake Public Charter School will be adjusted as follows:

? Monday, February 16, 2026 (Presidents’ Day) will be a school day due to an inclement weather make-up day

? The final day for students will be Friday, June 12, 2026, due to using all three built-in makeup days (pending any future school closings)

To view the amended school system calendar, visit our website at www.smcps.org/calendar.

For more information, call (301) 475-5511, ext 34105.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 3, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation (CCPR) advises citizens that the Mt. Hope Community Center will be temporarily closed Friday, Feb. 13, through Monday, Feb. 16, for floor maintenance. Normal hours of operation will resume Tuesday, Feb. 17.

The Mt. Hope Community Center is located at 104 Pushaw Station Road in Sunderland. CCPR appreciates the community’s patience as we work to improve and maintain our recreation facilities.

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

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

[Tuesday, Feb. 3] The Department of Planning and Growth Management (PGM) is now accepting applications from Charles County landowners interested in participating in the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) Program for the Fiscal Year 2027 Easement Cycle. 

Completed applications must be submitted to PGM no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026. 

The MALPF Program helps preserve farmland and woodland for the continued production of food and fiber throughout Maryland by purchasing conservation easements from willing landowners. Protecting agricultural land and preserving the County’s rural character is a key goal of the Board of Charles County Commissioners. 

To date, more than 16,000 acres of farm and forest land have been preserved in Charles County through the MALPF Program. 

Additional information about the MALPF Program and other agricultural land preservation initiatives is available at: 
www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/government/planning-and-growth-management/preservation-and-long-range-planning/agricultural-and-land-preservation 

Landowners interested in applying or needing assistance with the application process are encouraged to contact: 

[Tuesday, Feb. 3] The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for February. All offices, facilities, and services not listed will be operating during their normal business hours.

Thursday, Feb. 4

• The Department of Planning and Growth Management will be closed from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for mandatory all-staff training.

Monday, Feb. 9 (Employee Appreciation Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville will be closed.
• The Nanjemoy Community Center and all senior centers will be closed.

• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be open from noon – 5 p.m.  

• Port Tobacco Recreation Center will be open for scheduled activities. 

• Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center will be open from 2:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. for recreation activities only. 

Monday, Feb. 16 (Presidents’ Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville will be closed.
• The Nanjemoy Community Center, senior centers, and all school-based community centers will be closed.

• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be open from noon – 5 p.m.
• Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center 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 Public Schools: www.ccboe.com
• Charles County Health Department: www.CharlesCountyHealth.org

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Land Use & Growth Management (LUGM) invites the community to take part in the next phase of engagement for St. Mary’s 2050: Charting Our Tomorrow, the County’s long-range Comprehensive Plan.

A series of Open Houses will be held in February, providing an opportunity to review the first draft of the St. Mary’s 2050 Plan and share feedback that will help shape the final version. These sessions are designed to encourage open conversation, gather perspectives, and ensure the plan reflects the priorities and values of those who live, learn, work, and play in St. Mary’s County.

Community members are encouraged to save the dates and attend one of the following Open Houses:

• Monday, February 9, 2026
  9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  Lexington Park Library
  21677 Franklin Delano Roosevelt Blvd, Lexington Park
• Tuesday, February 10, 2026
  5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
  Northern Senior Center
  29655 Charlotte Hall Road, Charlotte Hall
• Wednesday, February 11, 2026
  10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  Leonard Hall Recreation Center
  23145 Leonard Hall Drive, Leonardtown
• Wednesday, February 11, 2026
  5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
  Loffler Senior Center
  21905 Chancellors Run Road, Great Mills

Please note: If St. Mary’s County Government Administrative Offices are closed due to inclement weather on any scheduled session date, that Open House will be canceled and rescheduled for a later date in February. To receive key County announcements directly to your inbox — including inclement weather operational changes — please sign up at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/news. Additional Open Houses are also planned for March, with dates to be announced.

Can’t attend in person? The draft plan and an online feedback form will be posted in early February, allowing residents to review materials and submit comments electronically. Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/StMarys2050 for updates and access once materials are available.

About St. Mary’s 2050

St. Mary’s 2050: Charting Our Tomorrow is an update to the County’s Comprehensive Plan and will guide future land use and development decisions through 2050 and beyond. The plan will help ensure St. Mary’s County continues to thrive while preserving its unique character, natural resources, and quality of life. Ongoing engagement is a critical part of shaping a shared vision for the County’s future.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Multiple large-scale illegal car rallies were dismantled by the Maryland Car Rally Task Force and partner law enforcement agencies on Sunday in Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, and Howard counties.

The dismantling operation started at 10 p.m. on Sunday, February 1, and focused on planned car meets, known as “Chipeos”, taking place on public roads, industrial zones, and parking lots throughout Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, and Howard counties. High visibility enforcement and patrols were conducted throughout the region, preventing crowds of up to 100 participants from engaging in exhibition driving, disorderly behavior, and roadway shutdowns.

The Task Force responded to the following locations, dismantling six large-scale driving exhibitions:

• 4301 46^th, Bladensburg
• 9200 Hampton Overlook, Capitol Heights
• 11011 Baltimore Ave., Beltsville
• 8251 Preston Ct., Jessup
• 4500 Forbes Blvd., Lanham
• 8299 Preston Court, Jessup

Maryland State Police arrested and charged Jareb Rivera, 22, of Lanham, Maryland, with possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle, possession of a handgun in a vehicle, and possession of a handgun without a serial number. He was transported to the Prince George’s County Detention Center, where he is waiting to be seen by a district court commissioner.

Troopers additionally arrested Reynaldo Prieto Gonzalez, 22, of Brooklyn, Maryland, for two outstanding warrants, both related to assault in Baltimore City. He was transported to the Prince George’s County Detention Center, where he is waiting to be seen by a district court commissioner.

The Maryland Car Rally Task Force is comprised of the Maryland State Police and police departments from Prince George’s, Montgomery, Howard, Baltimore counties, Baltimore City, and the Maryland Transportation Authority Police. This collaborative effort remains vital in addressing illegal exhibition driving across designated regions.

Jareb Rivera 

Reynaldo Prieto Gonzalez

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and this year’s theme: “Respect That!” highlights the importance of healthy and respectful teen relationships.

Teen dating violence and substance misuse are closely connected. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 12 U.S. high school students experience physical dating violence, and 1 in 10 experience sexual dating violence each year. Teens in abusive relationships are at greater risk for substance misuse, often using alcohol or other drugs to cope. Substance use can also impair judgment and increase vulnerability.

The Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) focuses on prevention by strengthening protective factors such as healthy communication, coping skills, emotional regulation and trusted adult connections – strategies that reduce both substance misuse and dating violence.

“Promoting healthy relationships and positive coping skills helps young people make safer choices,” Kimberly Shoe, president of the CAASA Board of Directors, said.

CAASA encourages parents, educators and youth-serving organizations to talk openly with teens about relationships, stress and where to get help. National data shows that only about one-third of teens experiencing dating violence tell someone else, making trusted adults and community awareness critical.

On Saturday, Feb. 28, the “Love Smart: Navigating Teen Relationships Safely” workshop will be held at the Harriet Elizabeth Brown Community Center at 901 Dares 

Beach Road in Prince Frederick, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Register for the event at this link. For more resources, visit LoveIsRespect.org or Hope4Calvert.org. In an emergency, call 911. Teens can call or text 988 for confidential support.

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.

The Maryland Office of the Comptroller today published the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the 2025 fiscal year (FY 2025), which spanned July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. The ACFR is the state’s official financial report, comprised of the state’s financial statements, including estimated and actual revenues and expenditures. 

The financial statements in the ACFR are audited annually by an independent auditor in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards. 

The FY 2025 ACFR audit was performed by SB & Company LLC, which was selected by an audit selection committee. That committee includes members of the agency, a representative from the University System of Maryland, and other units of the Executive Branch. SB & Company, LLC also performs an audit of the federal government’s grants issued to the State of Maryland to meet requirements set forth by the Office of Management and Budget. 

“Each year, the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report provides Marylanders with a clear, detailed picture of how their tax dollars are managed. While the report is a requirement, it is also an opportunity to demonstrate the strength of our financial management and our commitment to transparency in government,” Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman said. “By delivering this report, we aim to strengthen public trust, demonstrate accountability, and foster understanding about the state’s fiscal performance.” 

Highlights from the Fiscal Year 2025 ACFR include: 

• The State of Maryland's governmental activities had total expenses of $59.8 billion and total revenues of $56.8 billion (p. 14)
• Business-type activities had total expenses of $5.4 billion and program revenues of $7.4 billion (p. 14)
• Total state revenues were $64.4 billion, while total costs for all programs were $65.2 billion (p. 14)
• The known tax gap, the difference between documented taxes receivable and revenues collected, stands at approximately $2.392 billion as of June 2025 (p. 71) 

Maryland has published an ACFR for several decades and has won numerous awards for its financial reporting since the 1980s, including the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for the FY 2024 ACFR. 

Read the 2025 ACFR 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Aging & Human Services (DAHS) is pleased to announce this year’s Keys to Senior Independence series.

Planning for the future can feel daunting, but with helpful information and expert guidance, you can feel more confident about the choices ahead. Have questions about managing your finances as you age? Looking for strategies to stay resilient and adapt to life’s changes? Are you concerned about protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are respected? Whether you are planning for yourself, supporting aging parents, or approaching retirement, this educational series will cover ways to protect autonomy and quality of life.

The Keys to Senior Independence series will be held on Thursdays, March 26, April 9, and April 16, 2026, from 6 – 8 p.m., at the College of Southern Maryland in Leonardtown (Building C, Room 206). This year’s presentation topics are:

Financial Planning (Thursday, March 26)

Financial advisor, Jeff Linger, of Edward Jones, will help you learn how to make the most of your money as you age.

Mindset for Healthy Aging (Thursday, April 9)

Dr. Trish Davis, a gerontologist at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, will share practical strategies to support your mental well-being, manage stress, and stay resilient through life’s transitions.

Legal Preparedness (Thursday, April 16)

Representatives from the St. Mary’s County Bar Association will cover key legal tools – wills, trusts, advance healthcare directives, and more- to safeguard your independence.

Sign up for one session or all three! Certificates of completion will be awarded to those who complete all three sessions. For more information, or to register, please contact Nicoletta Pollice, DAHS Community Programs & Outreach Manager, at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1074, or via email to Nicoletta.Pollice@stmaryscountymd.gov.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 2, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Community Resources is pleased to announce the fiscal year 2026 Community Reinvestment & Repair Fund (CRRF) awardees. The CRRF program will distribute $547,469 to local organizations providing critical services across Calvert County, including youth development, education, behavioral health, homelessness prevention, community safety, workforce development and reentry support.

The FY26 awards reflect Calvert County’s continued commitment to supporting community organizations and strengthening the programs that serve residents every day.

“These investments directly support programs and services that meet community needs,” said Jennifer Moreland, director of Community Services. “We are proud to partner with organizations that demonstrate strong capacity, measurable outcomes and a sustained commitment to the well being of Calvert County families.”

Deputy Director Jacquelyn Culver emphasized this year’s funding reflects extensive community feedback and a thorough review process. “The FY26 awards are the result of careful evaluation, community surveys and data-driven prioritization,” she said. “These organizations play a vital role in expanding services and building stronger pathways for youth, families and vulnerable residents.”

Award announcements follow a competitive application cycle with proposals to address the funding priorities of:

· Education and after-school programs

· Behavioral health and crisis response

· Community childcare and recreational services

· Housing and homelessness prevention

· Job training and workforce development programs

· Transportation improvements in high-density areas

· Truancy and absenteeism intervention programs

· Programs serving residents impacted by incarceration

Calvert County will work closely with funded agencies to finalize grant agreements, budgets, timelines and reporting requirements. Agencies will receive direct communication outlining next steps, including payment schedules and documentation expectations.

For more information about CRRF, future funding cycles or to view the full awardee list, contact the Calvert County Department of Community Resources at 410-535-1600, ext. 8803, or visit www.calvertcountymd.gov/CRRF.

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.