FMD

Weight Limits Now in Place on Hornets Nest Road Bridge

Weight Limits Now in Place on Hornets Nest Road Bridge

Drivers urged to follow restrictions as bridge awaits replacement.

Frederick, MD (JK) – Drivers in Frederick County should be aware of new weight limits on the Hornets Nest Road bridge over Friends Creek. Vehicles are now restricted to under 9,000 pounds, while combination units are limited to 16,000 pounds.

The limits come after a routine inspection found that key parts of the bridge had deteriorated, prompting officials to take immediate action to ensure safety. The bridge is scheduled for replacement in the upcoming fiscal year as part of the county’s Capital Improvement Plan.

Motorists are encouraged to follow the posted restrictions and consider alternate routes when possible. For more information, contact Mike Metz, project manager with the Frederick County Office of Transportation Engineering, at 301-600-2381 or via email at [email protected].

By Jimmy Key

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Multi-Agency Drug Operation in Hagerstown Leads to Multiple Arrests, Fentanyl Seizure

Multi-Agency Drug Operation in Hagerstown Leads to Multiple Arrests, Fentanyl Seizure

Task force operation targets narcotics distribution and results in several charges and recoveries.

Hagerstown, MD (JK) – A coordinated law enforcement operation in Hagerstown on Tuesday led to multiple arrests and the seizure of suspected fentanyl, according to authorities.

The operation, conducted January 20, involved investigators from the Washington County Narcotics Task Force, special agents with the DEA’s Hagerstown Regional Office, deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Enforcement Unit, and officers from the Hagerstown Police Department’s Crime Suppression Unit.

Officials say the effort targeted illegal drug activity within the city and resulted in the recovery of several hundred gel capsules believed to contain fentanyl. Additional arrests were made for trespassing and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Among those arrested was 25-year-old Michael Cannon of Baltimore, who faces multiple drug-related charges including possession with intent to distribute fentanyl or heroin. Also taken into custody were Hagerstown residents Jeromy Hallmark, 34, and Dexter McDonald, 49, on various drug, weapons, and trespassing charges.

A criminal summons will also be issued for 65-year-old Victor Fowlkes of Hagerstown in connection with drug distribution allegations.

All individuals were transported to the Washington County Detention Center as the investigation continues.

By Jimmy Key

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West Virginia Man Arrested After I-81 Road Rage Shooting

West Virginia Man Arrested After I-81 Road Rage Shooting

Charles Town, WV (DG) – A Jefferson County man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he fired a gun at another vehicle in a road rage incident.

Officials report that 35-year-old Roger Chason of Summit Point, West Virginia, was arrested following the June 18, 2025, shooting on I-81 southbound in Shenandoah County, Virginia. Police say Chason allegedly fired a shot from his Ford F-150 at a Jeep Wagoneer. Thankfully, no one was injured in the incident.

Chason now faces charges including shooting from a vehicle and shooting at an occupied vehicle. He is currently being held in West Virginia pending extradition to Virginia.

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Vehicle Crash Damages Historic Monument at Gettysburg Battlefield

Vehicle Crash Damages Historic Monument at Gettysburg Battlefield

Gettysburg National Military Park Facebook Page

Gettysburg, PA. (DG) – Over the weekend in Gettysburg, a historic Civil War monument was damaged in a traffic collision. A two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Emmitsburg Road and Wheatfield Road in Gettysburg National Military Park sent one car into the Army of the Potomac, Third Corps Headquarters monument, officials said.

Park authorities reported the incident happened Saturday morning and, thankfully, no serious injuries were reported.

According to a Facebook post from the park, National Park Service staff will assess the monument’s condition this week and begin planning its reset in the coming weeks.

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Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash in Frederick County Claims One Life

Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash in Frederick County Claims One Life

Maryland State Police continue investigation after head-on collision on Route 194.

File:Seal of the Maryland State Police.png - Wikimedia Commons

Walkersville, MD (JK) – Maryland State Police are investigating a deadly two-vehicle crash that occurred Monday evening in Frederick County.

The crash involved a Chevrolet pickup truck, driven by 60-year-old Daniel Price of Biglerville, Pennsylvania, and a Toyota pickup truck driven by a 58-year-old man. Price was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other driver was airlifted by Maryland State Police Aviation Command to a shock trauma center with serious injuries.

The crash occurred around 5:30 p.m. on northbound Route 194, south of Crum Road. Preliminary reports indicate that Price’s Chevrolet crossed the center line for unknown reasons, striking the Toyota pickup head-on.

Traffic lanes were closed for approximately two hours while troopers from the Maryland State Police Frederick Barrack conducted the initial investigation. The Maryland State Police Crash Team continues to lead the active and ongoing investigation into the cause of the collision.

Officials are urging anyone with information about the crash to contact the Maryland State Police Frederick Barrack.

By Jimmy Key

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Shooting Reported Outside Gaithersburg McDonald’s, Police Investigating

Shooting Reported Outside Gaithersburg McDonald’s, Police Investigating

Man hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after Monday night incident.

GAITHERSBURG, MD (JK) — Police are investigating a shooting that occurred Monday evening outside a McDonald’s in Gaithersburg.

Officers with the Gaithersburg Police Department and Montgomery County Police responded around 7:08 p.m. to the restaurant in the 400 block of North Frederick Avenue following reports of a shooting.

When officers arrived, they found a male victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the leg. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was treated for injuries that were not considered life-threatening.

Police say the suspect or suspects fled the area before officers arrived. No arrests have been announced.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Gaithersburg Police Department Investigative Section.

By Jimmy Key

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Police Announced 2 More Arrests Tied To A Triple Homicide And House Fire In Washington County

Police Announced 2 More Arrests Tied To A Triple Homicide And House Fire In Washington County

Lanea George

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

David Chapple

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hagerstown, Md. (DG) – Maryland State Police have announced two more arrests tied to a triple homicide and house fire in Washington County last November.

Investigators say 40-year-old Lanea George of Owings Mills and 43-year-old David Chapple of Baltimore are accused of helping suspects after the killings. Both are charged with accessory after the fact to first-degree murder, with George also facing an obstruction of justice charge. They are being held without bail in county detention centers.

The case stems from a deadly fire reported just after five Tuesday morning on November 18th at a home along National Pike in Clear Spring. Troopers say investigators quickly uncovered signs of foul play, including the use of fire accelerants and injuries that did not match fire-related trauma.

Three people — Brittany Ray, Harold Flichman, and Brianna Weishaar — were found dead at the scene. The medical examiner ruled all three died from gunshot wounds.

Police say the investigation is ongoing and additioinal arrests are possible.

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Frederick County Work Force Services Job Hunt January 18, 2026

Frederick County Work Force Services Job Hunt January 18, 2026

New jobs listed

Machinery Maintenance Mechanic (2nd/3rd shift) (2165810)

Key Responsibilities:

Walks through all support equipment spaces checking for malfunctioning machinery and taking corrective action as necessary.
Identify potential machinery and system malfunctions; start/stop equipment as required; effect minor repairs to a large variety of systems and equipment; maintain legible and concise records; follow established procedures; work independently.
Responds to scientific, animal area, and other equipment alarm conditions, taking corrective action as necessary.
Maintains a clear and concise logbook of all activities occurring during the shift.
Calls responsible Supervisor on any major issues…and more!
Wages: $54-$79K

Sheet Metal Brake Operator – 2nd Shift (2164780)

Plans, lays out, fabricates and repairs sheet metal parts and products by performing the following duties:

Duties and Responsibilities:

Must be able to run Hydraulic press break and punches
Must be able to read a tape measure to 1/32nd inch.
Must be able to follow verbal, written and pictorial instructions.
Must be able to use hand tools.
Must be able to trim, file, grind, deburr, buff, and smooth surfaces…and more!
Wages: $21.50-$23.50/hr.

Strategic Sourcing Specialist (2164781)

SUMMARY: Develops and implements sourcing plans and tactics to effectively manage assigned spend categories. Primary goals are to maximize supplier performance, mitigate supply chain risk, and improve financial performance within the spend category.

Wages: $75-$90K

Process Expert (2165822)

What you will do:

Operate and provide technical oversight of aseptic isolator vial filling lines across multiple products and vial sizes, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and best practices.
Serve as a technical process expert, leading and supporting complex manufacturing projects using scientific and statistical methodologies.
Drive process development, scale-up, and validation activities, including FAT, SAT, PQ, SOP development, recipe generation, and regulatory validation milestones.
Lead process optimization initiatives and troubleshoot manufacturing and equipment issues through hands-on shopfloor support and data-driven analysis…and more!
Wages: $80-$128K

Warehouse Clerk (2165716)

Receive and assist drivers in unloading incoming freight items and packages; verify shipment is received and in good condition; and inform the appropriate departments of a freight delivery for coordination with Logistics for delivery. Also, maintain and perform basic repairs to warehouse equipment and report any problems to supervisor in a timely manner; assist with the processing of incoming and outgoing mail and delivery to the Emmitsburg USPS; assist with the sorting, package preparation, entering in the tracking system and dispensing packages and mail to students; prepare outgoing UPS (and other shipping vendors) for shipment via packing items and preparing outgoing labels; and maintain some of the basic warehouse items used by Campus Environment and the rest of the campus

Wages: $15/hr

Part-time Mailroom/Print Shop Clerk (2165718)

Deliver and pick up the mail daily for the departments, and deliver the mail daily to the Emmitsburg United States Postal Services (USPS). Must have a valid driver’s license to drive a Mount vehicle (van or car) on campus and to Emmitsburg USPS for deliveries and pickup. Sort, check-in/out packages and mail – this entails writing on the packages, scanning into the tracking system and scanning out when students or other departments pick up. Assist with Print Shop jobs for campus departments and students; this could entail making copies or posters and possibly binding booklets or processing printing of booklets.

Wages: $15/hr

Nurse Manager, Camp Health Services (2165868)

As the Nurse Manager, you’ll oversee all aspects of our health center operations during Summer Camp, Respite Weekends, Winter Camp, and Assisted Travel Trips. You’ll supervise health staff, ensure seamless care, coordinate medical logistics, and maintain compliance. Responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day health center functions; delegating duties to health staff for efficient care delivery; and administering medications. Will also assess camper health pre-arrival and throughout programs; act as the key liaison for health concerns between families, staff, and camp leadership; safeguard medical records, ensure compliance, and champion care continuity; and much more.

Salary: $68-72K/yr

Placemaking & Event Manager (2165853)

The organization is seeking a Placemaking & Events Manager to lead public art, beautification, and seasonal placemaking initiatives that enhance Downtown Frederick’s character and vibrancy. This role oversees major downtown events, manages contractors and volunteers, and collaborates closely with local businesses, city partners, and internal staff to strengthen the district’s sense of place. Ideal candidates bring project or event management experience, strong organizational skills, and the ability to coordinate complex, community‑focused initiatives.

Wage Range: $60,000 – $85,000

Director of Communication & Brand Strategy (2165864)

The organization is seeking a Director of Communications & Brand Strategy to lead all public-facing messaging, brand management, and strategic communications that elevate Downtown Frederick’s visibility and impact. This role oversees digital platforms, media relations, storytelling, and year‑round marketing campaigns while collaborating closely with staff, community partners, and part‑time contractors to ensure consistent, compelling communication. Ideal candidates bring strong writing skills, nonprofit or community-focused communications experience, and expertise in brand development, digital strategy, and project management.

Wage: $75,000 – $95,000

Safety Manager (2165867)

R.W. Warner is seeking a Field Safety Manager to oversee and enforce safety policies across job sites, ensuring compliance with OSHA standards and companywide safety procedures. This role conducts inspections, supports project teams with planning and loss control, leads training and toolbox talks, and documents safety violations while promoting a strong safety culture. Ideal candidates bring at least three years of construction safety experience, strong hazard‑recognition skills, and the ability to lead, communicate, and problem‑solve in fast‑paced field environments.

Wage Range: $60,000 – $70,000

Still Recruiting

Resident Advisor Trainee (2165519)

Community Health Educator (2165556)

Certified Pharmacy Technician (2164071)

Shipping & Receiving Coordinator (2164064)

Lead Installer (2165276)

Installer – Level I & II (2165291)

Legal Assistant (2165309)

Carpenter (2154088)

Automotive Care & Detailing Technician (2165829)

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Two Baltimore County Men Arrested in Westminster Drug Bust

Two Baltimore County Men Arrested in Westminster Drug Bust

Traffic stop leads to discovery of suspected cocaine, fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia on Baltimore Boulevard.

May be an image of phone, money, digital audio player and text

WESTMINSTER, MD (JK) — Two Baltimore County men are facing multiple charges after a traffic stop in Westminster on Wednesday, January 14th, uncovered a substantial amount of suspected narcotics.

Officers with the Pro-Active Community Enforcement (PACE) Team stopped a Kia Sedona in the 1400 block of Baltimore Boulevard for a tint violation and failure to obey a traffic control device. A K9 scan indicated the presence of controlled dangerous substances, prompting a search of the vehicle and its occupants.

Authorities recovered more than 44 grams of suspected cocaine and fentanyl, six cell phones, a digital scale, packaging materials, and nearly $1,000 in cash.

The driver, 28-year-old Tremaine Gordon Eugene Bishop, and the passenger, 24-year-old Robert Lee Johnson 3rd, were both arrested and charged with seven offenses related to possession and distribution of controlled substances. Both remain held without bail at the Carroll County Detention Center.

Police said the investigation is ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.

By Jimmy Key

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15-Year-Old Dies in Silver Spring Crash; Multiple Injuries Reported

15-Year-Old Dies in Silver Spring Crash; Multiple Injuries Reported

Montgomery County Police continue investigation into two-vehicle collision at Lockwood Drive and Northwest Drive.

Gaithersburg, MD (JK) – A 15-year-old girl from Pasadena, Maryland, was killed Wednesday in a two-vehicle crash in Silver Spring. The collision happened around 11:19 a.m. at Lockwood Drive and Northwest Drive.

Authorities say a southbound Lexus overtook a Ride On bus, entered the intersection, and struck a Toyota before losing control and hitting a utility pole. Tayeba Rezaie, a passenger in the Lexus, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another passenger was hospitalized in critical condition, while the driver and a third passenger sustained minor injuries. The Toyota driver was not injured.

The Montgomery County Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating the crash. Anyone with information is asked to call 240-773-6620.

By Jimmy Key

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Carroll County Reports Significant Drop in Drug Overdoses

Carroll County Reports Significant Drop in Drug Overdoses

Officials point to collaboration, prevention, and treatment as key factors in the decline.

Westminster, MD (JK) – Carroll County, Maryland continues to see a notable reduction in drug overdoses and overdose deaths, according to recent data from 2024 and 2025. Local officials say a coordinated, multi-agency strategy has played a major role in the improvement.

One milestone came in November 2025, when the county recorded its first month with zero fatal overdoses in nearly a decade.

Key Facts:

  • November 2025 marked the first month in almost 10 years with zero fatal overdoses
  • Total overdoses dropped 36% from January–October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023
  • Fatal overdoses during that period fell from 35 in 2023 to 15 in 2024
  • A total of 24 overdose deaths were recorded between September 2023 and August 2024

Officials credit expanded access to Naloxone, data-driven collaboration between public health and law enforcement, school-based prevention programs, peer recovery support, and the county’s Drug Treatment Court.

While the numbers are encouraging, health leaders warn that illicit fentanyl remains a serious threat and say continued prevention and intervention efforts are critical to sustaining the progress.

By Jimmy Key

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Former Groundswell MMA Co-Owner Pleads Guilty to Theft and Identity Fraud in Frederick

Former Groundswell MMA Co-Owner Pleads Guilty to Theft and Identity Fraud in Frederick

Prosecutors say Michael Perry misused business funds and committed identity fraud.

Towson, MD (JK) – A former co-owner of a Frederick-based martial arts academy has pleaded guilty to felony charges stemming from the misuse of business funds and identity fraud.

Maryland State Prosecutor Charlton T. Howard III announced that Michael Perry, a former co-owner of Groundswell MMA LLC, entered a guilty plea to Felony Theft Scheme and Identity Fraud on January 12, 2026. The plea came during a trial before Judge Richard J. Sandy, after the State began presenting witness testimony.

According to prosecutors, witnesses described how Perry portrayed himself as a wealthy individual with investment experience while operating the business. Testimony and facts entered into the record detailed Perry’s personal spending, which included high-end dining and purchases at gun shops, using funds belonging to Groundswell MMA.

The investigation determined that Perry spent approximately $66,000 on unauthorized personal expenses while he was an owner of the martial arts academy. In addition, Perry admitted to using his business partner’s personal identifying information to secure more than $25,000 in financing from multiple companies without the partner’s knowledge or consent.

Sentencing in the case has been scheduled for March 31, 2026.

By Jimmy Key

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Hagerstown Drug Raid Yields Fentanyl, Cocaine; Two Arrested

Hagerstown Drug Raid Yields Fentanyl, Cocaine; Two Arrested

Multiple law enforcement agencies seize nearly 100 grams of fentanyl and over 60 grams of cocaine during Thursday operation.

HAGERSTOWN, MD (JK) – A drug raid in Hagerstown on Thursday led to the seizure of nearly 100 grams of fentanyl, more than 60 grams of cocaine, and $1,802 in cash.

The Washington County Narcotics Task Force, assisted by Maryland State Police and Hagerstown Police, executed a search warrant at 137 John Street.

Two people were taken into custody… Shawn Wagstaff, 25, of Catonsville, who faces multiple charges, including possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and Justin Ragland, 43, of Hagerstown, now facing charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and maintaining a common nuisance-narcotics distribution.

By Jimmy Key

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Berkeley Springs Woman Arrested on Drug Distribution Charges After Traffic Stop

Berkeley Springs Woman Arrested on Drug Distribution Charges After Traffic Stop

Late-night stop of Crystal Ann Burch on Hedgesville Road turns up suspected methamphetamine, cocaine, and other narcotics.

Martinsburg, WV (JK) – A Berkeley Springs woman is facing serious drug charges following a traffic stop in Berkeley County late last week.

According to sheriff’s deputies, the incident occurred on January 9, 2026, at around 9:21 p.m., after authorities received a report of a possibly impaired driver traveling eastbound in the 9100 block of Hedgesville Road. A deputy located the vehicle near Rutter’s on Hedgesville Road and observed multiple indicators consistent with driving under the influence. The vehicle was stopped near the intersection of Interstate 81, with an additional deputy responding to assist.

During contact with the driver, deputies reported seeing narcotics paraphernalia in plain view inside the vehicle. The driver was removed from the car, and deputies located a baggie containing suspected methamphetamine in her coat pocket.

A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered two additional baggies of suspected methamphetamine, one baggie of suspected cocaine, suspected marijuana, two Alprazolam pills, a digital scale, and packaging materials consistent with the distribution of narcotics.

The driver, 43-year-old Crystal Ann Burch of Berkeley Springs was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine.

Burch was remanded to the Eastern Regional Jail on a $50,000 bond.

By Jimmy Key

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Frederick County Sheriff Chuck Jenkins Entered The Race For Re-Election

Frederick County Sheriff Chuck Jenkins Entered The Race For Re-Election

He has led the sheriff’s office since first winning the position in 2006.

Frederick, Md. (DG) – Frederick County Sheriff Chuck Jenkins is running for another term, officially filing for re-election Wednesday.

The Republican sheriff is seeking a sixth term in office after first being elected in 2006. Jenkins says he considered campaigns for Congress and for county executive, but decided remaining sheriff is the best way he can continue serving the community.

Looking ahead, Jenkins says his goal for another term is to build on the progress the sheriff’s office has made during his time in charge, focusing on maintaining public safety and continuing the work already underway across the county.

Primary election day in Frederick County is June 23, 2026. The general election is November 3, 2026.

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$500,000 Total in FEED Grants Awarded To 19 Organizations In Frederick County

$500,000 Total in FEED Grants Awarded To 19 Organizations In Frederick County

They will be used to help ease food insecurity.

The Community Foundation of Frederick County logo

Frederick, Md (KM) 19 organizations in Frederick County, including food banks, pantries and religious organizations, are receiving Food Equity and Emergency Distribution Grants to help residents who experiencing food insecurity.

Betsy Day, the President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Frederick County, says the FEED program was launched last year in partnership with the county. She says it took place during the federal government shutdown. “Frederick County government awarded $1 million to the Community Foundation of Frederick County  in grants to area non-profit organizations to help them address the needs of our residents who are experience food insecurity,” she said.

The federal government shutdown ended months ago, but Day says the affects are still being felt by some residents. “What happens then continues to ripple out. Existing resources are at  that time were stretched to the max. Even though there’s no longer a shutdown, insecurity still occurs,” she says.

Following the launch of the FEED program, applications were solicited from non-profits and religious organizations. “And then we recruited volunteers from throughout the county. We had representation from north county, south county, east and west. And these volunteers reviewed applications; and spent time, not just reading the applications, but also meeting in person to deliberate and discuss each application in depth,” says Day.

The 19 non-profits  which received grants are:

Andrea’s House Inc. – Food for residents.

Asbury United Methodist Church – Gas range, fryer, reach-in freezer and food for community.

Asian American Center of Frederick – Food purchases to expand distribution along the Golden Mile.

Blessings in a Backpack, Frederick Chapter – Weekend backpack meals for food-insecure children attending Frederick County Public Schools.

Brunswick Ecumenical Assistance Committee on Needs (BEACON) – Essential food items for the Brunswick Food Bank.

Farm to School Frederick Inc. – Veggie Van mobile markets to increase healthy food access.

Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry – Processing costs for deer and livestock to supply local food banks and food ministries.

Glade Valley Community Services – Support for the Glade Valley Food Bank.

Golden Mile Alliance – Hot meal program for students during spring break at Hillcrest Elementary.

Helping Hands and Caring Hearts – Food and hygiene supplies for vulnerable populations.

I Believe In Me Inc. – Student and family meals, and food distributions.

Maryland Food Bank – Wholesale food purchases for distribution to food programs in Frederick County.

Middletown Valley Food Bank – Refrigeration equipment and food purchases to support local families.

Safe Ride Foundation – Transportation program to help residents access food resources.

The Salvation Army – Upgrades to equipment, food safety improvements, and ensuring reliable meals and hydration at the Frederick Day Shelter.

Seton Center – Feeding Hungry Families program to purchase food for those in need.

Thurmont Ministerium – Capital improvements for food storage, including outdoor shed and refrigeration and freezer units.

Wells Recovery – Food distribution for individuals in recovery programs.

YMCA of Frederick County – Community produce market to provide fresh fruits and vegetables.

These one-time grants can be used for food distribution efforts, including buying food, essential supplies and investments in refrigeration and storage.

Days says a second round of applications for grants totaling $500,000 will open later in 2026..

She says food insecurity is a problem even in an area which is considered prosperous. “Food prices are increasing. Many households are having to make hard choices between buying food and buying medications; or paying for heat and fuel or buying food. It’s really a tough situation for many  of households out there right now,” she says.

This $1 million put forward by the County is taxpayer money, and Day says she doesn’t forget that. “This is  taxpayer dollars and we took this very, very seriously knowing that this is taxpayer money, and that we have a great responsibility to the taxpayer out there,” she said.

By Kevin McManus

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A Study On Foundation Funding Disconnect With Frederick County One Of The Bills being Considered By Local Delegation

A Study On Foundation Funding Disconnect With Frederick County One Of The Bills being Considered By Local Delegation

Lawmakers will also look at increasing the Sheriff’s salary.

Maryland State House, Annapolis, Md

Frederick, Md (KM) With the 2026 Maryland General Assembly underway, the Frederick County Legislative Delegation is considering several bills to bring forward.

One would increase the Sheriff’s salary from $125,000 to $175,000 annually. If it passes, the higher pay would take affect with the person who takes office as Sheriff after the general election in November.

Another measure calls for a study of the disconnect between foundation funding and  county growth rates which disproportionally affect  Frederick County. .

There’s also a bill to expand the ability of the Maryland Board of Physician Licensing to allow for the licensing of international physicians. There’s also legislation to increase the scope of practice that pharmacies can offer. It’s expected to help increase the availability of services in rural areas.

One bill would ban lead ammunition only in hunting to prevent lead poisoning.. There’s also legislation to establish new guidelines for drain grating in Mount Airy to prevent future tragedies like the drowning  of 13-year-old Mason Kerns. He was swept away by flash floodwaters in July, 2025 while playing outside during a heavy rainfall.

The Local Legislative Delegation has its first meeting on Friday, January 16th at 9:00 AM.

By Kevin McManus

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State Highway Administration To Close Md 28 Bridge Over The Monocacy River In Frederick County This Weekend

State Highway Administration To Close Md 28 Bridge Over The Monocacy River In Frederick County This Weekend

SHA says replacements need to be made to the overhead steel.

Map

Frederick, Md (KM) The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration says the it will temporarily close the Maryland 28 (Dickerson Road) Bridge over the Monocacy River south of Park Mills Road in Frederick County this weekend.

Crews will replace the section of overhead steel. This is related to a crash that occurred in October, 2024 where a large truck hit and damaged the bridge.

The closure will begin on Saturday, January 17th..  The span is expected to reopen on Sunday, January 18th at 5:00 PM weather permitting.

Motorists will be detoured. They will be directed to use westbound Maryland 28 to Maryland 85 (Buckeystown Pike) and then to Maryland 80 (Fingerboard Road) and then to Maryland 109 to I-270 to access to Maryland 28. Eastbound traffic will use the same detour route.

Local emergency crews have been notified of this closure.

By Kevin McManus

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Efforts To Get Underway To Repeal Maryland’s Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program

Efforts To Get Underway To Repeal Maryland’s Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program

Frederick County Delegate Jesse Pippy says it’s ‘obsolete.’

VEIP  Testing Station

       Delegate Jesse Pippy   


Frederick, Md (KM( Several Legislators in the 2026 Maryland General Assembly have launched an effort to repeal the Vehicle Emission Inspection Program; and one of them is Frederick County Delegate Jesse Pippy. “I think that test at some point may have meant something. But the reality is that vehicle OEM equipment already basically does this. There’s no vehicle that’s built, or any vehicle that’s been built  in the last several decades that doesn’t; pass this test,” he says.

OEM stands or original equipment manufacturer.

Other legislators working of repeal the VEIP program are  Delegate Christopher Bouchet, Frederick and Carroll Counties;; Delegate Jason Buckell of Allegany County; Delegate Kevin Hornberger of Cecil County; Delegate Chris Tomlinson of Frederick and Carroll Counties; Delegate William Valentine: of Washington and Frederick Counties; and Delegate William Wivell of Washington and Frederick Counties;

Pippy also says this program is “obsolete” due to improved manufacturing of  newer vehicles which helps reduce air pollution. “What the state has done is  force Marylanders literally to drive there, hook the machine up and give them money. And to add insult to injury, they doubled the fee this year,” he says.

The fee has increased to  $30;

Pippy says there’s as lot of support for this legislation. “I really like the feedback because this seems to be a very non-partisan issue where Marylanders across the board  are like ‘yeah! That program’s gotta go. There are certainly some good ones out there, but that ones gotta go,'” he says.

Supporters of repealing the VEIP program say it would save residents money, and potentially save the state money on operating these testing centers.

Pippy was a guest recently on WFMD’s “Morning News Express.”

After the 2026 General Assembly convenes, the bill will have its first reading before the House Environment and Transportation Committee.

By Kevin McManus

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Virtual Hearing To Be Held On Solar Generating Facility In Thurmont

Virtual Hearing To Be Held On Solar Generating Facility In Thurmont

The public will have an opportunity to testify.

Baltimore, Md (KM) A virtual hearing has been scheduled by the Maryland Public Service Commission for Tuesday, January 27th at 6:00 PM. . The PSC is considering an application by Blacks Mill Road Solar LLC to construct a five mega-watt solar generating facility in Frederick County. It planned for 47 acres of a 142.5-acre property at 7308 Blacks Mill Road in Thurmont.

In July, 2025, the developer applied to the Maryland PSC for a Certificate of Public Convenience, and Necessity which grants the applicant the authority to construct  an energy generating plant  in Maryland.

Along with taking public comment, the PSC will hear a presentation by the applicant and brief statements by the parties involved, including the Power Plant Research Program of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and the Commission’s technical staff.

Anyone who wants to speak at the hearing needs to sign up by January 26th They can do so buy going  on line to www.psc.state.md.us. Once the sign in process is completed, registrants will receive a ZOOM link.

The hearing can be viewed on the Public Utility Law Judge Judge Division’s YouTube Channel at https://bit.ly/2X6wLIP..

By Kevin McManus

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