Thursday, April 16, 2026] The Department of Community Services' Housing Authority Division is pleased to announce a new funding opportunity for low-income homeowners in Charles County who need essential home repairs for health & safety purposes. Funding for this new initiative is provided by the Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development to address urgent repairs that help Maryland families remain safe, healthy, and secure in their homes.

Some examples of eligible home repairs include, but are not limited to: mold removal; well/septic/plumbing issues; foundation water problems; removal of excess waste & debris; installing ramps or rails for accessibility; improving ventilation and air quality within the home; reducing fire hazards such as gas leaks or electrical problems; remediating lead, asbestos, or radon; window repair or replacement for health, safety, security, and thermal improvements; and pest treatment for rats, roaches, and mice.

Funds are only available to eligible low-income homeowners in Charles County & 7 other underserved jurisdictions in MD, on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible people must be the owner-occupants of their private home and meet other state & federal program guidelines to apply. Proof of owner-occupancy will be required.

For additional information, eligibility criteria, and to receive application assistance, please contact Ms. Barbara Farmer, Community Development Supervisor at 301-934-0124 or via email at farmerb@charlescountymd.gov, or Ms. Jill Hodges, Community Development Coordinator at 301-934-0120 or via email at hodgesj@charlescountymd,gov.

Thursday, April 16] On Tuesday, April 14, the Charles County Commissioners held a brief meeting due to a lack of quorum. Commissioners met to present April proclamations, vote on approval items, and hold one public hearing on proposed Bill 2026-02 Animal Matters Board (Member Compensation). The bill proposed amending the Charles County Code regarding compensation for the members of the Animal Matters Hearing Board, based on a recommendation from the 2025 Charles County Compensation Commission. The bill passed unanimously.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 16, 2026) – On April 14, at around 1:14 a.m., deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in St. Inigoes for a reported assault.

Upon arrival, the victim reported that following an argument, a male subject allegedly pointed a firearm at him.

Following an investigation, the suspect was identified as Jordan Charles Danford, 26, of California, Maryland. Danford was taken into custody, and deputies recovered an unserialized polymer 9mm semi-automatic handgun and a fully loaded magazine containing 25 rounds of ammunition.

The suspect was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center and charged with six offenses, including first-degree assault, use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, unlawful possession of an unserialized firearm, possession of a regulated firearm while prohibited due to an out-of-state protective order, possession of ammunition while prohibited, and use of a high-capacity magazine in the commission of a felony.

Following a District Court appearance, Danford was released on personal recognizance pending trial.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Aging & Human Services (DAHS) is inviting older adults, caregivers, and all residents of St. Mary’s County to share their perspectives on services for older adults by completing the Area Plan Survey.

The Maryland Department of Aging requires each planning and service area to develop a comprehensive four-year Area Plan, with updates completed during each cycle. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for St. Mary’s County, DAHS is responsible for preparing and implementing this plan.

The Area Plan outlines the scope of programs and supports available to older adults in the community. This plan serves as a roadmap for program development, service delivery, advocacy, and resource allocation throughout the 2027–2030 planning period.

The plan aligns with the principles of the Older Americans Act, which focus on assisting individuals aged 60 and older live independently, safely, and with dignity in their homes or communities for as long as possible.

Community input is a vital part of this process. Feedback gathered through the survey will help identify service gaps, evaluate current programs, and establish priorities to better serve older adults and their families.

The plan also incorporates the Longevity Ready Maryland approach, which outlines the following key goals:

• Building a Longevity Ecosystem
• Promoting Economic Opportunity
• Preparing Marylanders to Afford Longevity
• Optimizing Health, Wellness, and Mobility

Community members are encouraged to learn more about the 2027–2030 Area Plan and complete the questionnaire by visiting: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/Aging/AreaPlan.

The survey will be available from Thursday, April 16, 2026, through Thursday, April 30, 2026.

For those unable to access the online survey, print copies are available at the Garvey, Northern, and Loffler Senior Activity Centers.

To learn more about Maryland’s vision for aging services, visit the Longevity Ready Maryland initiative at https://lrm.maryland.gov.

For additional information on DAHS, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging.

tudent Found in Possession of Handgun at Glymont Middle School: On Wednesday, April 15, school administrators at Glymont Middle School were notified that a 13-year-old seventh-grade student was in possession of a handgun. The student had reportedly shown the firearm to another student, who informed additional students. The information was ultimately reported to school administration and a school resource officer.

The student was removed from class and during a search, a handgun was located concealed on his person. The handgun had a loaded magazine, but the gun's chamber was not loaded.

No threats toward any individuals were made. Preliminary findings indicate the handgun belongs to a family member of the student.

The student was taken into custody by a school resource officer, and the incident is being reviewed with the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) for further action. The investigation is ongoing, including follow-up regarding the circumstances of the student’s access to the firearm.

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) was accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) in 2001 and has since earned the highest rating of Excellence. Established in 1658, the CCSO is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States. For more information, visit www.ccso.us.

Charles County Crime Solvers offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of a person responsible for a crime in Charles County. For murder cases, the reward can be increased. All individuals who provide tips through Crime Solvers will remain anonymous. Anyone with information about an unsolved crime or the location of a fugitive may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app, which can be found in the Android Store and Apple Store by searching P3tips. For more information about the P3 program, click on this link: www.p3intel.com. 

St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) will implement a 2-hour early dismissal for all students today, Thursday, April 16, in response to continued excessive heat. 

Our school buildings are equipped with commercial heating and cooling systems that operate differently from residential (home) systems. Most homes can switch between heating and cooling with the touch of a button. However, our schools utilize a two-pipe system, which requires a deliberate, multi-day process to transition from heating to cooling and vice versa. This process is essential to ensure the system operates efficiently throughout the season.

When forecasted daily temperatures are consistently above 68°F and daytime temperatures exceed 72°F for two to three consecutive days, SMCPS initiates the two-day process to switch from heating to cooling mode, typically by April 15th. This changeover may also be delayed based on actual weather conditions.

Last week, our region experienced frost warnings and low overnight temperatures that required heating. As a result, many of our buildings are still in heating mode. Because the changeover to cooling is a multi-day process and cannot be completed immediately, some classrooms and hallways were experiencing higher-than-normal temperatures during this sudden heat event.

The early dismissal will allow us to minimize exposure to high indoor temperatures while we continue our seasonal changeover. After-school activities will not be impacted. 

We are currently planning to return to normal school hours on Friday, as temperatures are forecast to be more seasonal. While it won't be 90 degrees on Friday, it will be in the low 80s. We encourage families to ensure students are dressed in lightweight clothing and to send water bottles, if possible.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding. For updates and additional information, please visit the SMCPS website or follow our official communication channels.

[Wednesday, April 15] Charles County is pleased to announce that the 2025 Annual Report, Turning Plans into Progress, is now available online for public viewing. The Annual Report provides a comprehensive overview of the County’s work in 2025, highlighting key accomplishments and milestones.

“Charles County’s 2025 Annual Report reflects the real progress we are making by working together—leveraging partnerships, driving innovation, and creating opportunities that strengthen our community, from expanding critical infrastructure to enhancing quality-of-life amenities for our residents,” said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II. “As we build on this momentum, we remain committed to ensuring every resident can see themselves in our shared future and benefit from the growth and investments happening across our county.”

The report highlights key focus areas including economic development, emergency preparedness, infrastructure investments, sustainability, and quality of life. It also features photos, charts, and data visualizations that illustrate the County’s progress throughout the year.

Visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/AnnualReport to view or download a Portable Document Format (PDF) version of the Annual Report. Adobe Reader is required to view PDF files.

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

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Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) 2026 summer school program starts Tuesday, June 30. The schedule includes a mix of make-up and original credit courses. All make-up credit courses will be taught in person and original credit courses will be virtual through the Apex Learning and Zoom online platforms.

There is no cost for make-up summer school courses this year and transportation will not be provided. Students can take one make-up course or one original credit course during summer school. There is a $300 fee due at registration for an original credit course.

All courses run June 30 through July 30, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to noon. A graduation ceremony for students completing high school credits in summer school will be Friday, July 31.

Registration information

School-based counselors will work with parents and students to indicate summer school courses a student is eligible to take. An email from the school counselor will be sent to parents whose children are eligible for summer school with the recommended course. Students can contact their school counselor with questions and/or course recommendations. Registration is not through Synergy (ParentVue) this year but through school counselors. Click here for a list of school counselors. The registration process runs from May 4 to June 18.

Make-up course information

Regular make-up courses will be taught June 30 to July 30, Monday through Thursday. The courses are free.

Instruction for high school make-up courses will be in person at Thomas Stone High School for students who attend Stone, La Plata and St. Charles high schools. In-person make-up courses for students who attend Henry E. Lackey, Maurice J. McDonough, North Point and Westlake high schools will attend classes at Westlake.

Instruction for middle school students will be held at Benjamin Stoddert Middle School. Middle school. Middle school students must take two classes. If only one class is required, students will be placed into a tutoring session.

While students will attend classes in person Monday through Thursday, Fridays are set aside during summer school for students to complete course work at home. For students to receive credit, they must attend all class sessions and pass all assigned work, quizzes and assignments.

Students may bring snacks and their lunch. Free bagged lunches will be offered to students in the cafeteria. Students are not permitted to leave campus during or in between their registered classes.

Available make-up courses

High school

· Algebra I and II.

· Algebra with trigonometry and statistics.

· Art I.

· Biology.

· Chemistry.

· Earth systems.

· English I, II, III and IV.

· Exploring Computer Science.

· Foundations of Technology.

· Geometry.

· Heritage and Native Spanish (HNS) I, II and III.

· Introduction to Advanced Math.

· Local, State and National (LSN) government.

· Spanish I and II.

· U.S. history.

· World history.

· Personal Financial Literacy/Health II (half credit).

· Fit for Life/Health I (half credit).

Middle school

· Language Arts.

· Math.

· Science.

· Social Studies.

Original credit course information

Instruction for original credit courses will take place using Apex and Zoom. Students may take one original credit course. Teachers will provide live instruction virtually through Zoom from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Fridays are set aside during summer school for students to complete asynchronous work, and will not meet with teachers via Zoom on Fridays.

All Zoom meetings are mandatory. For students to receive credit, they must attend all Zoom meetings and pass all assigned work, quizzes and assignments in Apex. There is a $300 fee due at registration for original credit courses this summer. Original credit courses taken during summer school may not meet the standards of the NCAA Eligibility Center, the organization that certifies if prospective student-athletes are academically eligible to play Division I or II college sports.

Available original credit courses

· English III — This course is for students who have met all the requirements to graduate at the end of their junior year and have an approved graduating junior application on file with their home school.

· English IV — This course is for students who have completed four years of high school and are not in their graduation cohort, or class. Students must get approval to enroll in this course from the supervising school counselor.

· Exploring Computer Science. (This is a technology education credit).

· Fit for Life/Health I. (Semester one is June 30 through July 14. Semester two is July 15 through 30).

· Geometry.

· Personal Financial Literacy/Health II (Semester one is June 30 through July 14. Semester two is July 15 through 30).

· Spanish I.

Additional information

Students must maintain excellent attendance at Summer School, which will last for 19 days. Credit will not be given to students who miss more than two class periods, and they cannot be excused from school for dental appointments, camps, sports or vacations. Students who cannot commit to attending Summer School should not enroll.

Students are also required to be on time for every class. Those who arrive late or leave early may not earn course credit. Suspension days are considered absences. For more information and rules about Summer School 2026, go to www.ccboe.com.

Stone is at 3785 Leonardtown Road, Westlake is at 3000 Middleton Road and Benjamin Stoddert is at 2040 St. Thomas Drive. All three schools are in Waldorf.

[Wednesday, April 15] On April 13, 2026, plaintiff Mark Belton filed a voluntary dismissal of his federal discrimination lawsuit because of a settlement reached between the parties. In December 2025, Belton filed a lawsuit against the Charles County Board of Commissioners after the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission issued a right-to-sue letter. The case was settled for $550,000, and all discrimination claims have been dismissed. The settlement resolves the dispute, is not an admission of wrongdoing, and releases all claims against the defendants in both their official and individual capacities.

In addition to the discrimination claims, Belton also sued Charles County for breach of contract. That claim was also dismissed because there has been no breach of his contract; however, he retains the right to file a lawsuit in the future if a breach occurs.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – April 15, 2026 – As the agricultural growing season approaches, drivers in Calvert County are reminded to share the road with agricultural equipment. During the spring, farmers often use local roads to move large tractors and combines between farms as they work the fields.

Because farm equipment is large and slow moving, it’s important that drivers slow down and give farmers space in order to keep everyone safe.

Safety tips for sharing the road with farm equipment:

· Slow down gradually and don’t brake suddenly. Ease off your speed when you see equipment ahead.

· Keep a safe distance since agricultural equipment needs more space to stop and make turns than regular vehicles.

· Be patient, as equipment operators will move over when it is safe. Until then, keep your distance.

· Use your hazard lights if you’re behind a slow-moving vehicle for several minutes and passing conditions are not safe, or until the driver encourages you to pass. This alerts drivers behind you to slow down.

· Pass only when it’s safe. Make sure you have a full view of the road ahead and enough time to do so safely.

· Stay focused by avoiding distractions and remaining alert to protect yourself and others.

We encourage residents to share these tips and drive responsibly when farm equipment is on the road to help protect farmers, families and yourself. For more information, visit www.CalvertAg.com.

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 (CSMC) began their business day by hosting a joint meeting with the St. Mary’s County Board of Education. Discussion topics included negotiated agreements, the Maryland Apprenticeship Program, the Southern Maryland Summit: Teacher Preparation Pipeline, and a redistricting summary.

The Commissioners reconvened at 10:45 a.m. for their regular business meeting, starting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The CSMC then presented proclamations in recognition of National Animal Care & Control Week, National Library Week, Week of the Young Child, and National Public Safety Telecommunications Week. 

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the FY2027 Sex Offender Compliance and Enforcement in Maryland Grant application on behalf of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.
• Approved the Resolution providing full faith and credit of the CSMC in authorizing the Metropolitan Commission to issue infrastructure bonds.
• Approved the Department of Emergency Services, Animal Services Division, to apply for the Maryland Department of Agriculture Cat-Focused Grant funding. 
• Approved the Rent Fun agreement to provide rental kiosks for park equipment, such as kayaks, lawn games, and pickleball equipment at identified County parks.
• Approved priority enrollment for the childcare center (option 1).
• Authorized the use of five (5) County-issued laptops to the St. Mary’s County Administrative Charging Committee to assist in their investigatory review process.
• Approved the employment contract for the Director of Human Resources for St. Mary's County Government.

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

The CSMC wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room, located on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown.

The FY2027 Budget Public Hearing will also take place that evening at 6:30 p.m. in the Chopticon High School Auditorium.

CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on Channel 95 or on-demand via 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.

SOLOMONS, Md. – April 14, 2026 – Legislation designating Otodus megalodon, the largest shark to have ever lived, as Maryland’s official State Shark was approved late Monday evening by both the Maryland Senate and House of Delegates.

With this designation, Maryland becomes the first state in the nation to recognize an official State Shark. Megalodon, an extinct species known primarily through its fossilized teeth, is closely associated with Maryland’s geologic record. These fossils are found in the Chesapeake Bay region, offering important insight into the area’s prehistoric marine ecosystems.

Although megalodon disappeared millions of years ago, its legacy underscores the long-standing ecological importance of sharks in ocean systems—past and present. The designation highlights Maryland’s rich paleontological and modern marine heritage and provides new opportunities for public education about marine life, conservation, and Earth’s history.

The Calvert Marine Museum, Maryland’s State Paleontology Center, has long supported research, education, and public engagement related to the region’s fossil record, including the study of ancient sharks such as megalodon.

The museum extends its appreciation to Senator Jack Bailey, Delegate Todd Morgan, and their respective staff for sponsoring the legislation, as well as to the many individuals and organizations who contributed their support throughout the process.

Leonardtown, MD (April 14, 2026) — At approximately 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office received a tip indicating a student had reported seeing another student in Great Mills High School with a firearm.

Authorities immediately notified the Great Mills High School Resource officer, who then requested additional law enforcement support. Within minutes, school administrators initiated safety protocols, and additional deputies arrived on scene and began an investigation. A 17-year old male suspect was identified. School administration and officers performed a search of the suspect's person and belongings. During the search, a firearm was not found; however, alcohol and marijuana were located.

The suspect will be charged with the following:

Disruption of School Operations

Possession Of Cannabis By A Person Under 18

Possession Of An Alcoholic Beverage By A Person Under 21

Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from publicly identifying juveniles due to legal protections that safeguard their identities throughout the judicial process.

School safety remains a top priority with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, and the prompt report of suspicious activity allowed deputies to resolve the situation quickly and safely.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has increased its presence today at Great Mills High School as a precaution while investigating a tip received from a community member.

We understand that situations like this may cause concern, and we want to reassure the community that there is no indication of a threat to students, staff, or the public at this time.

Deputies are working closely with school administrators as the investigation continues. No arrests have been made. Communication to GMHS families will follow.

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office has increased its presence today at Great Mills High School as a precaution while investigating a tip received from a community member.

The Sheriff's Office: 'We understand that situations like this may cause concern, and we want to reassure the community that there is no indication of a threat to students, staff or the public at this time. Deputies are working closely with school administrators as the investigation continues. No arrests have been made. We encourage anyone with information to report it to the Sheriff's Office at 301-475-8008. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available.'

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – April 14, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Public Works, Water & Sewerage Division, will begin its annual fire hydrant inspections Wednesday, April 15, in Lusby. Inspections are expected to last approximately two weeks, with completion expected by April 29.

The inspections will begin at Southern Connector Boulevard in Lusby and proceed south toward Solomons. The contractor will inspect the hydrants for proper operation, perform annual maintenance and conduct flow testing, which may result in temporary water discoloration. Residents who experience discolored water are advised to run their tap until the water clears.

The department appreciates the public’s patience and understanding during this essential maintenance. For questions or concerns, call the Water & Sewerage Division at 410-535-1600, ext. 2329.

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 (April 13, 2026) — Detectives from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division arrested Darrin Michael Atlas, 48, of Leonardtown following an investigation for an assault which occurred on April 10, 2026, in the 22100 block of Bell Farm Way.

The preliminary investigation indicates the victim met the suspect to have a discussion when Atlas allegedly pointed a firearm at the victim and held the firearm to the victim’s head.  The victim was ultimately able to flee the residence.

Detectives with the Criminal Investigations Division assumed the investigation.  Atlas was later apprehended during a vehicle stop and a handgun was located in the vehicle.  A search warrant was executed at his residence where additional evidence was recovered.  

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

• Assault first-degree
• Assault second-degree
• Firearm use during the commission of a felony/crime of violence
• Illegal possession of a regulated firearm

Atlas remains incarcerated pending a bond hearing.  Anyone who has additional information is asked to contact Detective Andrew Burgess at 301-475-4200, ext. 8041, or by email at Andrew.Burgess@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Monday, April 13] Today, April 13, 2026, plaintiff Mark Belton filed a voluntary dismissal of his federal discrimination lawsuit because of a settlement reached between the parties. In December 2025, Belton filed a lawsuit against the Charles County Board of Commissioners after the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission found reasonable cause to support his discrimination complaint. The case was settled for $550,000, and all discrimination claims have been dismissed. The settlement resolves the dispute, is not an admission of wrongdoing, and releases all claims against the defendants in both their official and individual capacities.

In addition to the discrimination claims, Belton also sued Charles County for breach of contract. That claim was also dismissed because there has been no breach of his contract; however, he retains the right to file a lawsuit in the future if a breach occurs.

BALTIMORE (April 13, 2026) – Dr. Deborah Dennie, principal of Leonardtown Middle School in St. Mary’s County Public Schools, is a finalist for the National Principal of the Year Award from the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

One of three middle school finalists nationwide,  Dr. Dennie has led Leonardtown for 10 years. The national award honors outstanding contributions to student success, school improvement, and educational leadership. 

“Dr. Dennie is an outstanding school leader who cares deeply for her students, educators, and school community,” said Dr. Carey Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “Her dedication and vision are a powerful example of what strong, student?centered leadership can achieve.”

“Principal Dennie represents the level of excellence we strive for in school leadership across our state,” said Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board of Education President. “Her commitment to elevating teaching and learning, and dedication to mentoring and empowering educators, has strengthened her entire school community.”

Awards for middle and high school National Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year will be announced Friday, April 17 at the NASSP National Education Leadership Awards Gala in Washington, D.C.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Board of Elections has announced the following canvassing dates for mail-in and provisional ballots for the 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election:

• Pre-Election Day Mail-in Ballot Canvass: Monday, June 1, 2026, at 9 a.m., with Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 9 a.m. as a tentative second date (Please note results will not be released until election night).
• Post-Election Day Mail-in Ballot Canvass: Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 10 a.m.
• Provisional Ballot Canvass: Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at 10 a.m.
• Final Canvass (Post-Election Day): Monday, July 6, 2026, at 10 a.m.

*Dates are subject to change based on the number of mail-in ballots received. Updates will be posted online at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/elections.

All canvassing will take place at the St. Mary’s County Board of Elections office in Leonardtown.

For more information on the St. Mary’s County Board of Elections, voter registration, ballot drop box or polling place locations, and more, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/elections.

Questions may be directed to Wendy Adkins at wendy.adkins@stmaryscountymd.gov or by calling (301) 475-4200 ext. 1613.