AGP Executive Report

Eastern Shore History Ride: A Texas nonprofit, Black Outside Inc., biked 53 miles along Maryland’s Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Scenic Byway, stopping at sites like Linchester Mill to connect youth with local history. Preakness & Pooled Tourism: Gov. Wes Moore announced a new Black-Eyed Susan and Preakness schedule plus an NBC Sports media extension through 2032, including the Preakness moving to Sundays starting next year—aimed at boosting Maryland’s visitor draw. Ocean City Boardwalk Memorabilia: Ocean City is auctioning retired Boardwalk and street signs, letting fans bring home pieces of beach-town history. Rabies Closures at Cunningham Falls: After a second beaver tested positive for rabies, Maryland officials closed more areas at Cunningham Falls State Park, including the South Beach Day Use area and nearby access points. Tax-Free Week: Maryland’s Tax-Free Week runs Aug. 9–15, with savings on qualifying apparel, footwear, and part of backpack/bookbag purchases. Safety on the Shore: Ocean City lifeguards report a surge in jellyfish stings and share prevention tips for swimmers. Local Travel Disruption: A high-speed crash in Bel Alton sent a driver to a trauma center, with police investigating and charges pending.

Underground Railroad tourism: Casselman River Bridge State Park in Garrett County was added to the National Park Service’s Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, with Maryland DNR and MDOT working to stabilize and resurface the historic bridge tied to abolitionist Josiah Henson. Family travel + safety: Montgomery County health officials are pushing measles vaccinations ahead of school, citing rising cases statewide and nationally. Beach boardwalk keepsakes: Ocean City is auctioning off retired boardwalk signs (including rip-current and safety markers) to reduce clutter and raise money for a local charity—bids end Friday. Chesapeake Bay outdoors: Horseshoe crab tagging is expanding in Calvert County as College of Southern Maryland students help track the species’ movements during the full-moon spawning season. Road-trip planning: MDOT’s updated Project Portal gives travelers and drivers a clearer, easier way to track state highway construction by county and map. Travel-adjacent local events: Supernova, a Super Smash Bros. tournament series, is set for the Baltimore Convention Center this weekend. Air travel growth: Avelo hit 10 million customers, underscoring continued demand for affordable nonstop flights. Tourism + nature research: A national aquariums-and-universities effort is advancing sustainable marine fish aquaculture, aiming to reduce reliance on wild-caught species. Local tragedy to note: A stolen-car crash in Germantown killed a driver and injured multiple children, highlighting the risks around youth driving.

Aviation Safety: Federal officials are investigating a “loss of separation” incident involving President Trump’s Marine One helicopter and a commercial jet near Washington, with the FAA saying the president was never in danger. Wildlife & Parks: Maryland DNR has closed more areas of Cunningham Falls State Park after a second beaver bite in under two weeks, including the Houck Day Use area, a boat ramp, and Big Hunting Creek, as rabies testing continues. Local Travel Planning: Maryland’s Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week runs Aug. 9–15, with clothing and footwear under $100 per item exempt from the 6% sales tax and the first $40 of backpack/bookbag purchases also tax-free. Family-Friendly Fun: Cedric the Entertainer brings stand-up to The HALL at Live! Maryland on Aug. 9, a good pick for a shared night out. Getting There & Getting Around: A major public-safety and mobility story is also in the mix as Montgomery County defends its gun restrictions in court—another reminder that local rules can affect how visitors plan stops and routes.

Community Safety Update: Two 18-year-olds accused in an early-March assault on a chartered bus carrying St. Mary’s Ryken High School boys lacrosse players were sentenced July 31 in Calvert County Circuit Court, receiving probation before judgment. Health & Travel Caution: The CDC is preparing to expand a cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to contaminated Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce, with cases reported across many states—worth watching if you’re planning food-heavy trips. Outdoor Fall Planning: The Old Farmer’s Almanac released its 2026 fall foliage map, forecasting when Maryland-area autumn color peaks for road trips and hikes. Historic Tourism: Casselman River Bridge State Park in Garrett County was recognized by the National Park Service’s Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, with state and transportation crews stabilizing and resurfacing the landmark. Local Weekend Ideas: Bengies Drive-In Theatre in Middle River keeps the nostalgia alive with a double-feature lineup and classic drive-in traditions. Sports Tourism: The All Blacks’ South Africa tour includes a major Test in Baltimore on Sept. 12, with match officials confirmed for the “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry” series. Eastern Shore Culture: Chamber Music by the Sea returns with performances across Berlin, Snow Hill and Ocean Pines, using unusual venues like libraries and museums.

Baltimore Neighborhoods & Public Safety: Families and community groups packed multiple Baltimore locations for National Night Out, with Gov. Wes Moore and Mayor Brandon Scott urging residents to keep working together to reduce violence. Eastern Shore Politics & Travel Planning: A Maryland redistricting debate turned into a proposed non-binding Eastern Shore secession poll, raising questions about how representation could shift for the region. Rugby Tourism Watch: Thousands of tickets still appear available for the All Blacks’ South Africa tour opener in Baltimore, with fans weighing travel plans as the stadium’s other South Africa test match is already sold out. Measles Alert for Travelers: Maryland confirmed a 13th measles case after possible exposure at ChristianaCare Union Hospital ER in Elkton (Aug. 2, 7 p.m.–10:15 p.m.); health officials say risk is low if fully vaccinated and urge monitoring for symptoms. Local Legal/Policy Moves: Maryland lawmakers overrode two Gov. Wes Moore vetoes, including changes affecting divorce-record privacy and freight-train regulations. Outdoor & Weekend Ideas: Braddock District’s Battle of the Bands returns Aug. 14 and 21 at Lake Accotink Park, a low-key outing for music lovers.

Outdoor Education Cuts: Federal grant cuts are forcing the abrupt cancellation of hiking and camping trips for tens of thousands of students, raising fears of a “domino effect” that leaves a generation without early access to nature. Maryland Road Safety: Maryland reported six more fatal crashes, pushing July’s death toll to 37, as the state urges drivers to slow down, avoid distractions, and use roadside safety basics. Boating & Chesapeake Care: A Maryland boating guide highlights simple ways to protect rivers and the Chesapeake Bay—especially preventing fuel and oil pollution during fueling and maintenance. State Fairs for Families: Carroll, Howard, and Queen Anne’s County fairs are on deck with rides, animal exhibits, and classic fair food—great for weekend travel plans. Bridge Work (Calvert/St. Mary’s): Overnight routine maintenance begins Aug. 4 on the MD 4 Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge, with lane closures and alternate routing from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Maryland Mystery ID Update: DNA links a New Jersey woman to “Jane Doe,” a woman found in 1991 near I-270 in Frederick County, with investigators saying they’re closer than ever to solving the case.

Wildlife & Safety: Two endangered North Atlantic right whales surfaced in Maryland’s busy shipping corridor, raising fresh concerns about ship strikes in a critically endangered population of about 380. Local Tourism & Community: Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury marked a ribbon-cutting after a $15 million renovation, adding new spaces for events and visitors. Jobs & Regional Growth: Fire & Risk Alliance is moving into Dorchester County with a new fire testing and research campus, aiming for hundreds of jobs over the next several years. Road Travel Updates: Maryland traffic patterns are shifting around I-695 near Sparrows Point/Bear Creek during the Francis Scott Key Bridge rebuild, with lane limits across Bear Creek. Family Travel Caution: A woman sued Great Wolf Lodge in Perryville after an alleged neck injury on an indoor waterslide, spotlighting safety and maintenance questions for vacation resorts. Travel Disruption: A Northeast storm grounded hundreds of flights nationwide, and airline apps reportedly failed some travelers with unreliable delay notifications. Sports Tourism: The All Blacks’ first full South Africa tour since 1996 includes a final test in Baltimore on Sept. 12, bringing major rugby travel to Maryland. Retail & Visitor Economy: Home Depot is set to open its first Southern Maryland location at Lexington Exchange in St. Mary’s County, a boost for local shopping and jobs.

Hotel & Travel Watch: Marriott (Bethesda) forecast third-quarter profit below Wall Street as Middle East hotel revenue fell, even as U.S. demand stayed resilient after the FIFA World Cup and peak summer travel. Baltimore Lodging Upgrade: The 523-room Baltimore Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards finished phase one of a multi-million renovation, with lobby/meeting upgrades slated for Q1 2027. Family Travel Budgeting: Maryland’s Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week runs Aug. 9–15, with qualifying clothing/footwear $100 or less and the first $40 of a backpack/bookbag exempt from the 6% sales tax. Local Summer Plans: Harford County is leaning into August with waterfront fun, festivals, and outdoor adventures across its parks and shoreline. Community & Safety: Maryland State Police and Natural Resources Police are joining National Night Out on Aug. 4 with neighborhood events statewide. Outdoor Recreation Note: Maryland’s striped bass closure runs Aug. 1–31 in the Chesapeake Bay and tidal tributaries.

Road Safety: Maryland transportation officials are urging drivers to slow down after a deadly stretch, with five fatalities reported in a week and speed flagged as a major factor in serious crashes. Weather & Travel Disruptions: The National Weather Service warns of more storms and flash flooding risk across Maryland, with advisories affecting weekend travel plans. Local Access to Outdoors: Anne Arundel County libraries now offer free county park passes for daytime admission to six regional parks, making it easier for families to get outside. Maryland Culture & Food: Smith Island Cake gets a spotlight as the Chesapeake’s iconic, multi-layer dessert—an easy “must-try” for visitors. Tourism & Community Events: Annapolis is set for August fun with crab feasts, live music, and more. Immigration at Airports: Johns Hopkins researcher Fatima Ameaka was detained by ICE at BWI despite valid work authorization, then released after legal pushback—another reminder to travelers to double-check documentation. Gov. Moore Politics: Gov. Wes Moore says he’s “very concerned” Trump could interfere with midterm elections, including through federal actions affecting voting.

Maryland Parks & History: Maryland is creating new parks, but a new look at the planning process asks what happens to the history already on the land—especially when historic landscapes are layered with recreation. Anne Arundel Access: Anne Arundel Libraries now offer free county park passes, letting library cardholders borrow passes for seven days of daytime admission at six regional parks (with some activities still requiring separate fees). Heritage Tourism Upgrade: Catoctin Furnace in Thurmont received a grant to add a digital projection inside the restored iron furnace, bringing the ironmaking process to life for visitors. Scenic Outdoors: Patapsco Valley State Park’s Buzzards Rock Trail gets a spotlight as a moderate hike with big payoff views. Local Travel Safety: A serious two-vehicle crash in Waldorf left two people badly injured and airlifted to trauma centers, with the intersection’s lights knocked out while crews handled the aftermath. River Cruise Ideas: A guide to U.S. river cruises highlights 2026–2027 itineraries, including a Potomac-focused option with stops such as Annapolis. Invasive Species Warning: Scientists warn that ships stalled near the Strait of Hormuz could spread invasive marine organisms globally when traffic resumes—an environmental risk that could affect coastal destinations far beyond the region. Travel Disruption Watch: The U.S. State Department issued new security alerts for Americans in 10 Middle East countries, urging travelers to be ready for possible flight cancellations and airspace closures.

Heritage Tourism: Catoctin Furnace in Thurmont is getting a Maryland Heritage Areas Program grant for a digital projection that brings the ironmaking process back to life for visitors, with narration and the cast house bell. Top Maryland Hike Pick: Patapsco Valley State Park’s Buzzards Rock Trail is getting attention for its “scary” name and surprisingly rewarding views on a moderate 2.5-mile loop. Outdoor Escape (Eastern Shore): Tuckahoe Lake at Tuckahoe State Park is being highlighted as an overlooked, quieter paddling-and-fishing spot with wildlife and misty mornings. Ravens in College Park: The Ravens held a free public practice at Maryland’s SECU Stadium in College Park, a first for the NFL there, drawing big crowds and tying into the team’s expanded local marketing area. Travel Safety/Planning: The U.S. State Department issued new warnings for Americans in 10 Middle East countries to be ready to depart due to Iran tensions—expect possible flight cancellations and airspace closures. Local Weather: Maryland faces a hot, humid stretch with the biggest severe-storm risk later Monday and Tuesday, plus possible flash flooding in urban areas. Immigration at BWI: Johns Hopkins researcher Fatima Ameaka was released after ICE detention at BWI, despite claims of visa overstay amid a pending asylum case. Road Trip Alert: Ocean City is forecast to stay mostly clear on Sunday, but storms could roll in overnight, bringing wet roads and heavy rain.

Family Travel Calendar (Chesapeake): August is packed with Maryland-friendly plans, from the Maryland Renaissance Festival’s 50th season kickoff in Crownsville (Aug. 29) to Annapolis crab feasts, a Made in Maryland festival at Kurtz’s Beach (Aug. 16), and the SPCA of Anne Arundel’s Puppy Plunge at Camp Letts (Aug. 23). Fishing Updates: Maryland’s striped bass season closes Aug. 1–Aug. 31, with the tidal Potomac closed until Aug. 21; DNR also highlights its “Reel in the Blues Bonanza” and invasive blue catfish efforts. Baltimore Airport Immigration Detention: A Johns Hopkins researcher was detained by ICE at BWI despite work authorization, then released after legal pressure—another reminder for travelers to double-check documents. Local Culture & Nightlife: Baltimore’s Paramount venue is nearing completion and is expected to open this fall, adding a major midsize concert option near the stadium district. Health Alert: Maryland health officials warn of a possible measles exposure tied to an Elkton emergency department visit (July 30). Travel Safety/Water: Matapeake Beach is under a swimming health warning, and Chesapeake Bay conditions remain a key summer watch item.

Hotel Safety Tips: Travel experts say don’t leave passports, IDs, or sensitive documents on display in your room—store them in a safe to reduce identity theft risk. International Travel Watch: A new report on East Coast tourism shows international visitation down in places like New York City and Washington, D.C., as costs and security concerns weigh on overseas travelers. Maryland Health Alert: State officials are warning of possible measles exposure in Elkton after a visitor tested positive; anyone who was at ChristianaCare Union Hospital’s ER during a specific early-morning window should monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days. Beach Update: Matapeake Beach in Stevensville is under a swimming health warning due to high bacteria levels. Chesapeake Fishing Rule: Maryland’s monthlong striped bass (rockfish) closure starts Aug. 1, limiting targeting even for catch-and-release. Coastal Resilience: The University of Maryland expanded Hydronet flood monitoring with a new real-time station at Breezy Point Beach and Campground. Immigration at BWI: ICE detained a Johns Hopkins researcher at BWI while she tried to board a domestic flight, sparking concern from the university and lawmakers.

Camp David Spotlight: President Trump is set to hold a Cabinet meeting at Maryland’s Camp David as Iran war tensions shape the agenda, a reminder that the Catoctin Mountains retreat keeps pulling double duty as both diplomacy hub and travel destination. Road-Trip Reality Check: Maryland drivers near Baltimore County should plan for a traffic pattern change on I-695 near Sparrows Point/Bear Creek as the Francis Scott Key Bridge rebuild continues, with lane adjustments and daytime bridge maintenance. Family Fun & Local Stops: North Beach Farmers Market is a weekend must for visitors and locals, with a community-friendly setup in the North Beach Senior Center parking lot and easy add-ons like the boardwalk and library nearby. Heritage Tourism: Catoctin Furnace is getting a Maryland Heritage Areas grant to add a digital projection recreating the historic ironmaking process—an immersive upgrade for history lovers. Community Safety: Maryland Natural Resources Police will join National Night Out on Aug. 4 with family-friendly events and safety presentations across the state. Shopping Update: Nordstrom Rack plans to open new stores in Maryland as part of a broader expansion, adding more deal-hunting options for travelers.

Chesapeake Bay Health Alert: Maryland health officials say cases of vibriosis are climbing, including confirmed “flesh-eating” Vibrio vulnificus infections—so swimmers and anyone with open wounds should take extra precautions this summer. Local Water Woes: Dundalk residents are fed up after repeated water main breaks left flooding and patchwork repairs in their Rosewald Beach neighborhood, with calls for a more permanent fix. Family-Friendly Camp: Camp Open Arms at Camp Running Bear in Baltimore County is giving more than 75 kids with limb differences a free, confidence-building week of activities—no bullying, just community. Baltimore Design for Visitors: Baltimore launched an international design competition to make three major traffic corridors more welcoming, with $450,000 in prizes and a focus on arrival experiences for residents and visitors. Road/Travel Disruption: MDOT warns of a width restriction on southbound US 301 over MD 290 in Queen Anne’s County due to bridge replacement work. Safety on the Water: Officials also reported a beaver bite that closed a beach at Cunningham Falls State Park, underscoring how quickly summer plans can change. Immigration at Airports: A Johns Hopkins public health researcher was detained by ICE while boarding a domestic flight at BWI, raising concerns among the university community.

Eastern Shore Travel & Tourism: Stevensville is rolling out 18 new decorative banners to spotlight the Historic Stevensville Arts & Entertainment District, boosting visibility for travelers passing through Queen Anne’s County. Road Trip Stops: Route 50 traffic got you stuck? A new guide highlights easy detours between Kent Island and Salisbury, including a Stevensville brewery/venue and other quick-hit attractions. Family Fun & Safety: Talbot County’s storm response included NWS-confirmed tornadoes near Trappe (EF-1 and EF-0), with no injuries reported. Beach Planning: Marylanders are reminded to plan around water safety—elsewhere, lifeguards say cliff jumpers are still ignoring warnings after rescues. Local Culture: Baltimore’s Birthday Bash 2026 is set for the War Memorial with a DJ, open bar, and proceeds supporting Live Baltimore. Travel Tech/Reading Hacks: Maryland libraries say you can grab multiple library cards across systems to cut e-book wait times—handy for summer reading before trips. Money & Travel Timing: A $1 million Powerball prize was claimed in Odenton. Sports Tourism: The All Blacks’ historic tour includes a Test at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.