St. Mary’s News

St. Mary’s County Announces Closures and Service Changes Ahead of Winter Storm

St. Mary’s County Announces Closures and Service Changes Ahead of Winter Storm

St. Mary’s County is preparing for significant winter weather as a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect from January 23 to January 24, followed by a Winter Storm Warning from January 24 through January 26. Forecasts call for heavy mixed precipitation, including 5 to 10 inches of snow and sleet, with up to a...
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Lexington Park Man Accused of Strangling Woman Outside Local Library

Lexington Park Man Accused of Strangling Woman Outside Local Library

John Edward Clopper, 43, of Lexington Park, has been charged with first-degree assault and second-degree assault following a reported incident on January 16, 2026, according to court documents filed in the District Court for St. Mary’s County. The charges stem from allegations that Clopper confronted a woman outside the Lexington Park Library and strangled...
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Public Warming Centers Available January 23-27, 2026

Public Warming Centers Available January 23-27, 2026

St. Mary’s County, Maryland is currently under a Winter Storm Watch from Saturday, January 24, 2026, until Monday, January 26, 2026. Due to impactful winter weather in the forecast, St. Mary’s County Government is announcing the availability of warming centers for the public from Friday, January 23 through Tuesday, January 27, 2026. Residents who need to take refuge in a warm...
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St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Seeking Missing 17-Year-Old from Lexington Park

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Seeking Missing 17-Year-Old from Lexington Park

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the whereabouts of Missing Person – Amir Rich, black male, age 17 who was last seen in the Great Mills area on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Contact the Sheriff’s Office if you have any information on his whereabouts.
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Auditions Begin for CSM’s Spring Production of ‘Into the Woods’

Auditions Begin for CSM’s Spring Production of ‘Into the Woods’

The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Associate of Arts Theater and Dance program invites aspiring performers to take the stage and audition for its spring production of “Into the Woods” on Tuesday, January 20, or Thursday, January 22. Auditions are open to CSM students and members of the community. The classic Broadway musical follows...
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UPDATE: GoFundMe Started for Father and Son After Losing Everything to House Fire in Mechanicsville

UPDATE: GoFundMe Started for Father and Son After Losing Everything to House Fire in Mechanicsville

UPDATE 1/22/2026: GoFundMe can be found by clicking here. Fortunately, the homeowners escaped without injury. “The father and son are seeking any donation, no matter the size, with everything going directly toward helping him and his son cover essentials and regain stability. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser or keeping them in...
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Are You Prepared for the Cold and Snow? National Weather Service Warns As Major Snowstorm Incoming

Are You Prepared for the Cold and Snow? National Weather Service Warns As Major Snowstorm Incoming

Winter Storm Watch in Effect – WHAT…Heavy snow mixed with sleet and freezing rain possible. There is a high likelihood of at least 5 inches of snow, with over 10 inches possible. Ice accumulation is also possible. WHERE…DC, and portions of central, northeast, northern, Southern Maryland, and Central and Northern Virginia. WHEN…From Saturday evening...
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Annual Cherry Blossom Festival Returns Saturday, March 21, 2026 to Lexington Manor Passive Park, Vendor & Sponsor Opportunities Available!

Annual Cherry Blossom Festival Returns Saturday, March 21, 2026 to Lexington Manor Passive Park, Vendor & Sponsor Opportunities Available!

The St. Mary’s County Government Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) will host Southern Maryland’s very own Cherry Blossom Festival on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from noon – 4 p.m. at Lexington Manor Passive Park in Lexington Park, MD Celebrate the start of spring at this free family event held at St. Mary’s County’s premiere arts park, featuring a...
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Annual Appraiser Fair Taking a One-Year Break in 2026, Set to Return in 2027 at St. Clement’s Island Museum’s New Facility

Annual Appraiser Fair Taking a One-Year Break in 2026, Set to Return in 2027 at St. Clement’s Island Museum’s New Facility

St. Mary’s County Government’s Museum Division will not hold the popular Appraiser Fair in 2026 due to construction of a brand-new museum facility at St. Clement’s Island Museum. The long-running event will return in January 2027, in the new modern museum building. The Appraiser Fair provides an opportunity for the public to learn the value of...
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Governor Moore Announces $73.7 Million for Community Revitalization and Economic Development Projects in Proposed FY 2027 Budget

Governor Moore Announces $73.7 Million for Community Revitalization and Economic Development Projects in Proposed FY 2027 Budget

Governor Wes Moore announced $73.7 million in his proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget to fund 252 projects through the six state revitalization programs administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. The investments in county and municipal governments, community development organizations, and other community institutions and partners will support projects and activities...
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UPDATE: Noise Advisory – Inshore Weapons Testing, Potential Supersonic Flights Jan. 21-23, 2026

UPDATE: Noise Advisory – Inshore Weapons Testing, Potential Supersonic Flights Jan. 21-23, 2026

UPDATE 1/20/2026: Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Webster Outlying Field, Smith Island, Maryland and residents of the Northern Neck of Virginia are advised of an inshore weapons separation testing event Wednesday, Jan. 21 to Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. This test flight has the potential to generate a sonic boom that could be...
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Leonardtown Business Association Seeks Vendors for Vintage Vibes Weekend

Leonardtown Business Association Seeks Vendors for Vintage Vibes Weekend

Leonardtown Business Association is now accepting vendor applications for its upcoming Vintage Vibes Weekend, taking place May 2, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Vendors specializing in antiques, collectibles, vintage goods, retro décor, apparel, records, and other unique finds are encouraged to apply. This event celebrates timeless style, nostalgia, and the charm of...
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Health Department Now Offering No-Cost Vaccines Through Maryland’s Free Adult Vaccine Program

Health Department Now Offering No-Cost Vaccines Through Maryland’s Free Adult Vaccine Program

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is now offering recommended adult vaccines at no cost to eligible Maryland residents through the Maryland Free Adult Vaccine Program. This statewide initiative expands access to immunizations for uninsured and underinsured adults ages 19 and older by reducing financial barriers to preventive care. The program is designed to give adults...
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No Injuries Reported After Vehicle Fire in Great Mills

No Injuries Reported After Vehicle Fire in Great Mills

On Thursday, January 15, 2026, At approximately 10:14 a.m., police and firefighters responded to the area of the Dyson Building Center on Point Lookout Road in Great Mills, for the reported vehicle on fire with possible entrapment. Early reports suggested the possibility of an individual still inside the vehicle. Due to multiple calls reporting...
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Early Morning Green House Fire in Mechanicsville Under Investigation, No Injuries Reported

Early Morning Green House Fire in Mechanicsville Under Investigation, No Injuries Reported

On Friday, January 16, 2026, at approximately 3:30 a.m., firefighters from Mechanicsville, Leonardtown, Hollywood, Bay District, and Second District were dispatched to the 41100 block of Bishop Road in Mechanicsville, for the reported structure on fire. Crews arrived on the scene to find a greenhouse complex fully engulfed and quickly spreading to two nearby...
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United States Secret Service’s New Trainer Courtesy of Presidential Helicopters Program Office

United States Secret Service’s New Trainer Courtesy of Presidential Helicopters Program Office

In June 2025, the Presidential Helicopters Program Office (PMA-274) delivered and installed a retired and refurbished VH-3D helicopter, bureau number 159351 (BUNO 351), to the United States Secret Service (USSS). The agency received the aircraft at the James J. Rowley Training Center (JJRTC) in South Laurel, Maryland, fulfilling its need for a new training...
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Volunteer Fire Departments in 17 Maryland Counties Get $167,314 for Rural Wildfire Protection

Volunteer Fire Departments in 17 Maryland Counties Get $167,314 for Rural Wildfire Protection

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service is providing Volunteer Fire Assistance grants to 55 volunteer fire departments in 17 counties across the state. The funded projects help volunteer fire companies enhance wildland fire protection in rural communities. For the 2025 grant cycle, finalized in December, the Maryland Forest Service is providing $167,314...
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February 2026 Events at the Calvert Marine Museum

February 2026 Events at the Calvert Marine Museum

Birding events, special activities for members, and live music highlight February at the Calvert Marine Museum. The month’s lineup also includes family-friendly programs, educational tours, and seasonal celebrations for visitors of all ages.  For the full calendar of February events, visit our website www.calvertmarinemuseum.com CMM Celebrates the Year of the Horse – According to the Chinese...
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Second District Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Squad Announce Passing of Life Member John G. Guy

Second District Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Squad Announce Passing of Life Member John G. Guy

The Second District Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Squad announces with great sadness the passing of Life Member John G. Guy on Sunday, January 18, 2026. John joined the department in 1994 and served the citizens of St. Mary’s County for more than 28 years. During his tenure, he held the positions of Chief...
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Governor Moore Announces Legislative Action to Safeguard Vaccine Access for Marylanders with Vax Act of 2026

Governor Moore Announces Legislative Action to Safeguard Vaccine Access for Marylanders with Vax Act of 2026

“Governor Wes Moore announced the Vax Act as part of the governor’s legislative agenda during the 2026 Maryland General Assembly. The legislation is a direct response to the Trump-Vance Administration’s efforts to discourage access to vaccines and undermine trust in vaccine science.” “The federal government’s rapid shifts and the unnecessary confusion surrounding vaccine policy...
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Early Morning Crash in California Sends One to Trauma Center

Early Morning Crash in California Sends One to Trauma Center

On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, approximately 6:50 a.m., police, firefighters and emergency medical services responded to the intersection of Chancellors Run Road and FDR Boulevard in California, for a motor vehicle accident involving an unresponsive subject. Crews quickly arrived on scene to find a two-vehicle, rear-end style collision with no entrapment, and confirmed one...
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NAS Patuxent River to Participate in Navy Force Protection Exercise Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2026

NAS Patuxent River to Participate in Navy Force Protection Exercise Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2026

Naval Air Station Patuxent River will participate in the annual force protection exercise, Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain Jan. 26-Feb. 6, 2026. Exercise Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2026 (CSSC26) is conducted by Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFFC) and Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) on all Navy installations in the continental U.S. “Pax River joins Navy bases...
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MDOT SHA Performing Routine Maintenance on Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge This Weekend, January 18th, 2026

MDOT SHA Performing Routine Maintenance on Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge This Weekend, January 18th, 2026

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will begin routine structural and maintenance work on the MD 4 Bridge over the Patuxent River (Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge) at the Calvert/St. Mary’s County line beginning Sunday, January 18. The nighttime work will continue through late February, weather permitting. Crews will close a single-lane and...
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Large Comercial Fire Reported at Hollywood Used Auto Parts and Maximum Autobody in Hollywood

Large Comercial Fire Reported at Hollywood Used Auto Parts and Maximum Autobody in Hollywood

On Saturday, January 17, 2026, at approximately 3:48 p.m., fire and rescue crews responded to a large commercial fire at Hollywood Used Auto Parts and Maximum Autobody, located at 43904 Commerce Avenue in Hollywood. Initial reports indicate approximately 30 vehicles were on fire. Multiple fire and rescue units are on the scene actively working...
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Police Arrest Leonardtown Woman After Alleged Public Disturbance and Drug Possession

Police Arrest Leonardtown Woman After Alleged Public Disturbance and Drug Possession

Heather Marie Garner, 37, of Leonardtown, has been formally charged following an incident earlier this month that led to her arrest by the Maryland State Police. According to court documents, Garner faces seven misdemeanor charges stemming from events on January 11, 2026. These include one count of intoxicated public disturbance, three counts of possession...
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