AGP Executive Report

Chesapeake Bay Investment: Maryland is set to receive $31.5 million for 25 ecological restoration projects to cut nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment while boosting wetlands, trees, and rain gardens—good news for the Bay’s wildlife and the tourism/seafood economy. Air Show Week in Southern Maryland: St. Mary’s County launched an “Air Show Passport” for NAS Patuxent River Air Show visitors (June 16–21), steering guests to local lodging, restaurants, shops, and attractions with a 250th-themed guide. Ocean City Air Show Traffic: Ocean City issued an advisory ahead of the air show weekend, warning of traffic, parking, and street-closure impacts. Baltimore Tourism & Safety: A Maryland dad and DC Police Union president spoke out after a shocking teen brawl at a DC Chipotle, tying the incident to curfew and broader public-safety concerns that can affect visitors. Local Travel Disruption: Maryland’s Benedict Bridge maintenance is scheduled for this weekend, with expected delays. Road Trip Planning: AAA reports gas prices falling for the third straight week, easing summer driving costs. Heat Alert: Record-breaking heat and severe storm risks are already building across parts of the country, a reminder to plan outdoor travel with weather in mind.

Southern Maryland Air Show: St. Mary’s County rolled out an “Air Show Passport” for NAS Patuxent River Air Show Week (June 16-21), a countywide guide to local restaurants, shops, museums, lodging and promotions—built with the Chamber and Visit St. Mary’s under the theme “Where History Runs Deep and the Navy Flies High.” Chesapeake Bay Investment: Gov. Wes Moore announced $31.5 million for 25 Chesapeake Bay restoration projects across Maryland, targeting cleaner water and habitat—tree planting, wetland restoration, stream work, rain gardens, and reduced runoff. Western Maryland Scenic Railroad on Screen: The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad says a Paramount+ production of “Mayor of Kingstown” helped generate more than $1 million in economic activity for Cumberland and Allegany County, with filming support and logistics coordinated by rail staff and partners. Travel Safety/Weather: A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for parts of Maryland (including Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s) until 9 p.m. EDT—plan for delays if you’re heading out. Road Travel Alerts: A fatal Catonsville crash on Frederick Road killed the driver and left three passengers seriously hurt; officials continue to track 2026 fatal-crash totals.

Ocean City Air Show: The Thunderbirds return to Ocean City June 13-14 with a joint U.S.-France tribute to the 250th anniversary, but plan ahead for heavy traffic, limited parking, and street closures starting Friday. Baltimore World Cup buzz: Fans packed Fells Point pubs for the opener, turning waterfront bars into mini match-day stadiums. Maryland travel logistics: MDOT SHA is doing routine maintenance on the MD 231 (Benedict Bridge) bridge Sunday, with one lane closed and delays expected. Space tourism inspiration: NASA announced Artemis III mission specialists with Maryland ties, including a former Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab engineer and a Bethesda-area alumnus—another reason Marylanders are watching the skies. Family-friendly summer picks (Southern Maryland): This week’s Southern Maryland roundup highlights waterfront fun, outdoor festivals, and free kids’ programs across Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s. AAA gas watch: AAA reports pump prices falling for the third straight week, with the national average around $4.13—good news for road-trip planning.

Juneteenth in Southern Maryland: Historic Sotterley (Hollywood) hosts “Threads of Freedom” honoring 100-year-old quiltmaker Edith Younger Edmunds, with a 45-minute presentation and community storytelling on June 19. Community & volunteering on the Eastern Shore: An Episcopal youth group from the Church of the Redeemer spent four days helping low-income families with home repairs, coordinated through the ESVA Housing Mission. Baltimore-area travel safety & access: A public meeting in Cecil County drew backlash over ChristianaCare’s plan to close the birth center at Union Hospital in Elkton on June 30, with residents citing longer drives and limited transit. Immigration enforcement sparks local outrage: ICE agents detained two people outside a Baltimore school during drop-off, prompting criticism from city and state leaders. Road travel tragedy (Delaware, near Maryland): Ocean City resident Kara Gilmore was arrested after a fatal Millville hit-and-run bicycle crash; charges were upgraded to vehicular homicide. Weekend plans for Baltimore visitors: Pride events, the Baltimore Floatilla, and a Shakespeare show with major music influences are among the city’s top picks. Weather watch: Severe thunderstorms and damaging winds are possible in western Maryland into the DC region. Gas & trip budgeting: AAA reports pump prices falling nationally for a third straight week, with the U.S. average around $4.12. Culture & faith tourism: The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage continued through Maryland, including a Washington Monument blessing in Baltimore.

Maryland Primary Prep: Early voting is underway for Maryland’s June 23 primary, with Anne Arundel County opening 10 centers through June 18—an option voters say helps with travel plans and flexibility. Chesapeake Bay Funding: Gov. Wes Moore announced $31.5 million in ecological restoration grants across 25 projects and 188 sites to cut nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment and boost wildlife habitat—big news for Bay tourism and seafood. National Eucharistic Pilgrimage in Baltimore: The 2026 pilgrimage’s Baltimore leg included a Washington Monument blessing with a golden monstrance and hymns, drawing hundreds despite rain. Space & Science from Laurel: NASA’s Parker Solar Probe completed its 28th close pass of the Sun, with check-ins from Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel. Travel Tech for International Flights: Germantown-based MyFlyYatra launched a redesigned, mobile-friendly booking site aimed at smoother flight searches to India and beyond. Local Events for Visitors: The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is set to bring a “Race Village” and public yacht tours to The Wharf in D.C. June 14–16. Outdoor Safety: A heat advisory and severe thunderstorm watch could affect the DMV commute, with damaging winds possible. Wildlife/Animal Health Alert: Screwworm concerns are driving stricter animal import rules in the region, including Florida’s emergency ban on certain pets from affected states.

America 250 Road-Trip Costs: A new report says several states—including Maryland—are set to raise gas taxes around America’s 250th, adding pressure to summer travel budgets. Chesapeake Wildlife Watch: Maryland officials report dolphin sightings across multiple Bay waterways and urge boaters and beachgoers to keep distance and use Chesapeake DolphinWatch to report sightings. Ocean City Air Show Logistics: Ocean City warns of heavy traffic, limited parking, and street closures starting Friday for the June 13-14 OC Air Show, including parking lot shutdowns and enhanced paid parking rules. America 250 Faith Stops in Baltimore: The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage drew hundreds in Baltimore despite rain, with a procession from the Baltimore Basilica toward the Washington Monument. Calvert County Parks Planning: Calvert County launched public engagement for its 2027 Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan, with community events and online feedback options. Local Tourism & Outdoors: Maryland’s DNR also reminds visitors to stay alert for marine mammals and sea turtles as beach water monitoring begins.

Baltimore Pilgrimage: Hundreds gathered in Baltimore for the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, with priests carrying the Eucharist through city streets as part of America’s 250th observances, and more Maryland stops listed including Severna Park, Hagerstown, Boonsboro and Annapolis. Ocean City Travel Alert: The Ocean City Air Show is back this weekend, and the town is warning visitors about street closures, limited parking, and paid lots near the event area. Sail250 Preview: A U.S. Navy band previewed its upcoming Sail250 performance at the Inner Harbor, with the fleet set to travel up the Chesapeake Bay as part of the America’s 250th maritime celebration. Maryland Fishing: This week’s Maryland fishing reports highlight summer opportunities across the state, including a striped bass advisory focus as waters warm. BWI for Fliers: BWI was named the least stressful U.S. airport in a study, citing strong on-time performance, low lost-bag rates, and short TSA waits. Rockville Dining: Armand’s Pizzeria & Grille will permanently close its last Rockville location on June 20, citing rising costs. Heat Safety (Nearby): Delaware opened cooling centers during a heat advisory, a useful heads-up for travelers crossing the region. America 250 on the Eastern Shore: Salisbury University’s Voices 250 project is collecting 250 oral histories across Maryland’s Eastern Shore as part of the anniversary year.

Transit & Pride in Maryland: WMATA’s Red Line shutdown (July 6–Sept. 6) will close three stations in Bethesda/North Bethesda, but Maryland’s temporary bus lanes on Route 355 are already striped for free shuttle service, while the Maryland Transit Administration also unveiled a newly designed Pride bus featuring local artist Joan Cox’s work. Baltimore Tourism Upgrade: The Maryland Science Center will break ground June 13 on a harbor-facing entrance plaza renovation for its 50th anniversary, adding a landscaped green space, native plants, educational markers, and a shade canopy. Family-Friendly Waterfront Fun: Richmond’s VMHC is partnering with the city to bring three tall ships to the riverfront for SailFest, with live music, performances, and a big fireworks show (including 250 drones) tied to America’s 250th. Travel Safety at the Border: Dulles CBP says it’s seizing prohibited pork and ruminant meat products and urges travelers to know what they can’t bring into the U.S. Outdoor & Nature Watch: Northern snakeheads (“Frankenfish”) have been spotted in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and across multiple East Coast states, raising concerns for native ecosystems and fishing.

Airport & Travel Rankings: Portland International Airport topped a new AirHelp Score list for best U.S. airports, while ranking No. 1 nationally and No. 18 globally—good news for travelers who care about on-time performance and passenger experience. New Nonstop Routes: Middle Georgia Regional Airport in Macon launched its first nonstop flight to Fort Lauderdale, and the community also welcomed the return of nonstop service to Baltimore. Maryland Pride on the Move: The Maryland Transit Administration rolled out a newly designed Pride Bus across the Baltimore region, adding more visible art and inclusion to Pride Month. Big Maryland Event: Ocean City’s 19th Annual OC Air Show returns June 13-14 with the Thunderbirds and Patrouille de France; free beach/boardwalk viewing runs daily from noon to about 3 p.m. Baltimore Pride Weekend: The 2026 Baltimore Pride Parade is set for June 13 downtown (noon start), with limited parking expected in Mount Vernon and Station North. Wildlife & Outdoor Safety: Northern snakehead “Frankenfish” continues spreading in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including spots in Maryland—another reminder to keep invasive species out of local waters. Local Business/Consumer Watch: Baltimore filed a civil conspiracy lawsuit against Agora over alleged misleading marketing aimed at seniors, seeking penalties up to $1,000 per violation per day.

Maryland Travel & Tourism: Onancock Sails Forward (Eastern Shore): Onancock, VA is gearing up for “Onancock Sails Forward” as the tall ship Lady Maryland docks for Sail Virginia 2026—expect dockside tours, maritime demos, live music, and family-friendly waterfront fun, with nearby Cape Charles’ SailFest following June 19–21. Local Legal/Brand Watch: Louis Vuitton vs. Maryland Live! Casino: The luxury brand is suing the casino over a loyalty promotion that allegedly copied its iconic monogram look, a reminder that “themed” rewards can turn into high-stakes legal trouble. Road & Visitor Safety: Towson shooting investigation: Baltimore County police are still searching for a suspect after a Towson University student was killed near Towson Circle; motive is under review, with road rage not ruled out. Travel Disruption: Amtrak delays near Havre de Grace: A barge strike shut down Amtrak service south of Wilmington, causing singer Nick Jonas to detour and dine in Wilmington before heading to Maryland. Health & Travel Planning: Measles surge: U.S. measles cases are on pace to surpass 2025’s record high, with most cases tied to unvaccinated people—worth factoring into summer travel plans. Environment: Styrofoam crackdown push: World Oceans Day coverage spotlights bans and growing efforts to keep foam out of waterways. Animal/Ag Alert: New World screwworm returns: Texas cases are prompting extra livestock precautions and import restrictions—relevant for rural travel and regional food supply.

Maryland Sports & Travel Calendar: Baltimore’s Ravens helped launch St. Mary’s County’s first girls flag football season, with the sport now officially sanctioned statewide—expect more youth sports tourism and weekend trips as programs expand. Eastern Shore Dining: 7 Brew opened in Salisbury, drawing early-morning crowds and beach-bound coffee fans who may now add the stop to their summer routes. Transit & Commuter Planning: Metro’s summer Red Line shutdown will close three stations (Grosvenor-Strathmore, Medical Center, Bethesda) and shift riders onto shuttle buses and new bus lanes along Route 355—plan extra travel time. Public Health Watch: U.S. measles cases are on pace to surpass 2025’s record high, with most cases tied to unvaccinated people—travelers should check vaccination status before summer trips. Family-Friendly Faith Tourism: The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage brought more than 1,000 people through downtown Washington with a street procession and special blessings, adding another major draw for visitors in the DC area. Animal Health Alert: New World screwworm has been confirmed in Texas (four cases), raising concerns for cattle and beef prices—important for ranch-region travel and food planning.

Maryland Summer Travel Safety: Maryland DOT and State Police are kicking off the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” with a new safety push for drivers heading out on road trips and beach weekends. Rail Disruption: A barge strike on the Susquehanna River Bridge near Havre de Grace forced Amtrak to suspend service and triggered delays for travelers on the busy Baltimore–Philadelphia–New York corridor. Beach Accessibility: Rehoboth Beach replaced a wheelchair-accessible dune crossing ramp at the south end of the Boardwalk, improving access after sand issues with the old setup. Family Fun in Garrett County: Mountain Lake Park’s free splash pad at Leo Martin Memorial Park is open for summer, offering a cool, kid-friendly stop with easy parking and picnic space. World Cup Lodging in the Region: Hotel du Pont in Wilmington is serving as official lodging headquarters for Ivory Coast during FIFA World Cup 2026, with matches tied to the Philadelphia area. Local Events & Community: CAMP Rehoboth’s 35th anniversary art exhibit “Community, Heart, Pride” opens June 8 with a reception June 11, adding another reason to plan a summer visit to the beach.

Transportation Disruption: A barge strike damaged Amtrak’s Susquehanna River Bridge near Havre de Grace, suspending service on the busy Philadelphia–Baltimore corridor and triggering delays as crews inspected the structure. Coastal Accessibility: Rehoboth Beach replaced a wheelchair-accessible dune crossing ramp at Laurel Street, with a shorter, flatter design completed by Delaware DNREC after officials said the old ramp was hard to keep clear of sand. Family Fun in Maryland: Mountain Lake Park’s free splash pad at Leo Martin Memorial Park (open from Memorial Day into early fall) brings a kid-friendly water-play setup with jets, buckets, and a covered pavilion. Local Events & Travel Planning: The OC Air Show is set for June 13–14, with former Orioles pitcher Kyle Gibson scheduled for a Thunderbirds “Hometown Hero” flight from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility just before the show. Summer Culture: CAMP Rehoboth’s 35th-anniversary art exhibit “Community, Heart, Pride” opens June 8 and runs through July 31, with a reception June 11. Weather Watch: Severe storms knocked out power for thousands across parts of the region, including Maryland.

Travel Disruption: Severe thunderstorms triggered ground stops at major U.S. airports, stranding thousands; in Maryland, outages hit more than 2,300 people and businesses, including 1,196 BGE customers in Howard County. Local Tourism & 250th: Anne Arundel County breweries are rolling out limited-edition “America’s 250” beers tied to colonial recipes and Revolutionary history, with releases ahead of the Fourth of July. Air Access to Vacation Hot Spots: Southwest is expanding Puerto Rico service—new routes from Indianapolis and Columbus add seats for beaches, rainforest trails, and Old San Juan. Family Travel Ideas: A guide highlights easy America’s 250th trips for families flying via MCO, including kid-friendly history stops in Philadelphia, Boston, Washington, and Baltimore. Maryland in the Spotlight: Filming for “Mayor of Kingstown” began in Cumberland, bringing attention to Maryland locations and the local film workforce. Community Events: Jefferson County’s Northwest Branch library drew 900+ for “Touch a Truck,” a big draw after a Memorial Day parade. Safety Watch: Police are investigating a fatal shooting in Towson on York Road; separate reports also describe a bus crash involving students returning from Washington, D.C.

National Eucharistic Pilgrimage: More than 1,000 Catholics joined a downtown Washington, D.C. procession on June 6, part of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, with the Blessed Sacrament carried past major landmarks including Lafayette Square and the White House area. Maryland Music & Tourism: Grammy-nominated Bryson Tiller announced a 61-date “Neo Trapsoul Tour,” with a stop in Baltimore at CFG Bank Arena on Sept. 6—another big draw for visitors planning fall trips. Film Brings Business to the Region: “Mayor of Kingstown” began filming in Cumberland, with Maryland Commerce officials saying the production is boosting the local film ecosystem and workforce. Local Craft Beer for America’s 250th: Anne Arundel breweries are rolling out limited-edition America250 beers tied to colonial recipes and Revolutionary history, with releases ahead of Fourth of July. Safety on the Road: Police are investigating a fatal York Road shooting near Towson Circle, while a separate bus crash involving students on a D.C. class trip sent five students and a chaperone to hospital in Maryland. Gas & Summer Travel Costs: GasBuddy reported Howard County E15 prices as low as $4.05 and E85 prices in Montgomery County as low as $3.74, as fuel costs keep shaping summer plans.

USDA Livestock Alert: A single New World screwworm case was confirmed about 30 miles inside the U.S.-Mexico border in a Zavala County, Texas calf, triggering a 20 km quarantine and renewed sterile-fly efforts to protect the cattle industry. Maryland Summer Safety: Maryland officials kicked off the “100 deadliest days of summer” with extra enforcement and reminders to buckle up, avoid distractions, and plan a sober ride. Boating Costs Hit Hard: High fuel prices are forcing DC-area boaters to slow down and rethink summer trips, with marinas reporting gasoline and diesel well above last year. Towson Shooting: A driver was shot and killed near Towson Circle on York Road; police are searching for the suspect vehicle and asking for tips. Baltimore Sewer Update: A sewer moratorium in parts of Baltimore suburbs was lifted after capacity concerns eased, clearing the way for some new development. Outdoor Weekend Weather: Baltimore-area forecasts call for hot, humid conditions with isolated storms—plan outdoor time earlier and watch for brief downpours. Wildlife & Nature: A horseshoe crab protection lawsuit targets federal ESA decisions as populations decline in Maryland and Delaware. Family Travel Ideas: Maryland state parks are adding more day-use reservations at popular parks, aiming to manage demand. Community Events: Eagleman Ironman 70.3 Cambridge is seeking volunteers ahead of June 14, supporting thousands of visiting athletes.