The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement for today, March 21, for an enhanced threat of wildfires, due to high winds and low relative humidity.

Congressman David Trone has launched a new page on his website to provide Marylanders and those seeking care in Maryland with reproductive rights resources within the state. Since the Supreme Court decision of Dobbs v. Jackson, 21 states have banned or restricted abortions. The webpage explains Maryland’s steps to safeguard abortion rights and provides resources available to those seeking reproductive care.

A bill that would have prevented cities from enacting or enforcing laws to do with vagrancy has died in committee in Annapolis. Currently, cities may enforce all ordinances relating to disorderly conduct and nuisances of a vagrant. A fiscal note on House Bill 734 said it would have a meaningful impact on small businesses who deal with vagrancy problems often.

The City of Cumberland has opened the application period for local non-profit groups to submit requests for portions of the Hotel/Motel Tax.  Awards from the tax are granted annually through the Mayor and City Council based on merit.  The grants are made possible through Hotel/Motel tax collections through Allegany County’s lodging partners and designed to enhance tourism, increase overnight stays and visitor spending.  Applications and details are on the City of Cumberland website at www.cumberlandmd.gov

On Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at approximately 6:42 AM, officers of the Cumberland Police Department responded to N. Centre Street at Market Street for a motor vehicle crash.  One of the involved operators, Dezmond Whitfield, provided false identities to police and hindered the investigation.  Whitfield was arrested and transported to Central Booking.  He was later seen by a District Court Commissioner and posted a $500 bond.   ARRESTED:  Dezmond Dwayne Whitfield         AGE:  24           Baltimore, MD CHARGES:  Obstructing & Hindering, Fraud-Per. Ident. Avoid Pros. (x2)

On Wednesday, March 20, 2024, the Cumberland Police Department served two bench warrants on Sheila Cappadona.  One warrant was issued as the result of Cappadona failing to comply with an order of the court.  In this case, she was originally charged with Violate Protective Order and Assault-2nd Degree.  The other warrant was issued as the result of Cappadona violating probation.  In this case, she was originally charged with Fail to Obey a Reasonable & Lawful Order.  Cappadona was arrested and transported to Central Booking.  She was later seen by a District Court Commissioner and remanded to the Allegany County Detention…

Hampshire County law enforcement are evacuating residents of the Crossings subdivision off Cabin Run Road in the Slanesville area.  The area of 50-60 houses is being evacuated due to wildfires in the area.  Hampshire EMS says they are currently working seven brush fires and three structure fires in the county and all of their fire companies are out working.

During today’s budget debate in the House of Delegates, Democratic members rejected efforts to add funding to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future – the sweeping education plan that is projected to create billions of dollars in budget deficits in the coming years. House Republicans offered an amendment that would move $500,000 from salary increases for Public Defenders and use the money to fund the Blueprint and another amendment that would take $3.5 million earmarked for training abortion providers and expanding abortion services and move it to the Blueprint Fund. “It seems fair to suggest, after these votes, that funding the…

West Virginia Governor Jim Justice announced today $1,093,000.00 million in non-federal match funds to Congressionally Directed Spending, enhancing the state’s critical infrastructure and addressing community needs. "These investments demonstrate our dedication to crucial improvements in the state's infrastructure, and I am proud that we are able to provide this support," said Gov. Justice. "These matches are not only a boost to the state's economic growth but also enhance the quality of life for our citizens. It's a clear signal of our unwavering commitment to the well-being and prosperity of our residents." Those receiving funding include: Shady Spring Public Service District — Raleigh…

Governor Wes Moore today announced that Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport set a new annual record for international passenger traffic in 2023 with 1,365,847 international passengers—2.58% higher than the previous record for international traffic at the airport, set in 2018.  “BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport is a key economic driver and international gateway for our region,” said Gov. Moore. “We’re making Maryland more competitive, and BWI is helping us lead the way by boosting tourism, creating jobs, and expanding business opportunities for our communities.”  BWI Marshall Airport produces a total economic impact of $11.3 billion. The airport and visitors generate and support more…