AGP Executive Report

Maryland Travel Safety: A Charleston County man faces involuntary manslaughter charges after an April boating crash killed 19-year-old Evan Greenleigh of Bethesda, with investigators saying the operator had seven people aboard a boat rated for four and failed to spot a floating dock. Outdoor Access in Maryland: Maryland DNR is asking residents for input on a draft Land Preservation and Recreation Plan, aiming to expand and improve outdoor recreation access across the state. Caribbean & Winter Flight News: BermudAir is adding nonstop service from Boston to Belize and Turks & Caicos this December, with fares starting at $324 and $254 one-way, plus other new routes. Road Trip Costs: GasBuddy reports the lowest regular gas in Howard County hit $3.97/gal (week ending May 30), while Montgomery County’s lowest premium was $4.52/gal. Health & Travel Watch: USDA confirmed the New World screwworm in Texas cattle, prompting quarantines and surveillance near the U.S.-Mexico border.

Sail250 (Chesapeake Bay): The big tall-ship and naval-vessel celebration is set to hit the region for 18 days, with stops including Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and then Baltimore (June 24–30), plus a 26-mile Parade of Sail and public viewing spots—great timing for Maryland visitors planning a waterfront trip. Historic Ships in Baltimore: The USS Constellation’s rigging renovation earned a 2026 Maryland Preservation Award for Excellence in Restoration, adding another reason to visit the Inner Harbor’s flagship. Ocean City crash: Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal Worcester County crash near US 50 and MD 610; an Ocean City man died after failing to stop at a stop sign. Baltimore off-road crackdown: A Baltimore Police officer was struck by a dirt bike during crowd control; a suspect was arrested and charged. Maryland Live! lawsuit: Louis Vuitton sued Maryland Live! Casino over an “Art of Luxury” promotion, alleging trademark infringement. Travel planning trend: A new “hotel hopping” approach is pushing travelers toward shorter, nearby trips and more flexible booking for summer. Wildlife/health watch: USDA confirmed a New World screwworm case in south Texas, prompting quarantines and movement controls—worth noting for travelers with livestock ties.

Baltimore & Maryland Weather: A warmer Thursday is on the way, with highs climbing into the upper 80s to near 90, then a hot stretch into the weekend (upper 80s/low 90s) with a few possible thunderstorms Saturday into Sunday. Fishing & Outdoor Fun: Maryland’s free fishing days are set for June 6, June 13, and July 4—no license or trout stamp needed for those days (and kids under 16 don’t need a license). There’s also a Chesapeake Channa (northern snakehead) derby and outreach event on June 13 at Gunpowder Falls State Park and Dundee Creek Marina. Baltimore Family Travel: Discovery Quest is back as a “passport” style summer adventure across 14 Baltimore museums—grab stamps, complete activities, and collect a charm after visiting at least two locations. Caribbean Flights from Baltimore: BermudAir is expanding winter service, adding Turks and Caicos routes from Baltimore plus new nonstop options to Belize and more, with tickets going on sale Friday for December starts. Local Tourism Spotlight: The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad continues to draw visitors, with a growing focus on families and locals using the railroad as a weekend anchor.

Maryland Tourism & Travel: Rolf’s Country House in Baltimore won a 2026 Travel and Hospitality Award for quality guest experience, highlighting its gardens and luxury stays. Local Travel Safety: Anne Arundel County crews finished cleanup after a raw sewage spill near Cypress Creek in Severna Park, with about 2,000 gallons entering the waterway after a pipe failure—residents raised concerns about a nearby public beach. Family Travel & Activities: Anne Arundel County Public Library is bringing back Summer @ Your Library through Aug. 31, with reading challenges, countywide events, and prizes including Southwest Airlines passes. Weather for Trips: A warming trend is building around Baltimore, with highs climbing into the 90s by Friday and Saturday and a watch for scattered storms Sunday. On the Road: A wrong-way crash on I-83 near Loganville killed a Middle River couple, according to the York County Coroner’s Office. Travel-Adjacent Headlines: Operation Summer Heat 2.0 kicked off as a nationwide FBI crackdown tied to arrests and drug seizures, including activity involving Maryland field offices.

Travel Safety & Local Crime: Maryland police arrested a suspected carjacker, Jordan Larine Redfern, 30, after West Virginia linked him to a gunpoint carjacking of a family at a gas station; investigators say he drove the stolen vehicle into Maryland and was later taken into custody following a bank robbery. Road-Trip Safety: A bus driver tied to the deadly I-95 crash in Virginia pleaded guilty in Anne Arundel County to a prior speeding citation (72 mph in a 50 mph zone), as the crash investigation and related legal fallout continue. Outdoor Plans (Maryland): Paddlefest returns to Janes Island State Park June 6-7 with guided paddles, pontoon tours, kids activities, and an evening concert; admission is free and camping is available. Family Travel Prep: Experts recommend kid-safe sunscreen basics—broad-spectrum SPF 50, water resistance, and proper reapplication—especially for children over six months. Weather Watch (Baltimore): A warming trend pushes temperatures into the 80s, with upper 80s midweek and possible 90s by Friday and Saturday before storms and cooler air return early next week. Wildlife & Health Alert: USDA says a New World screwworm was detected in Mexico about 25 miles from the U.S. border, keeping the risk to people low but raising attention for livestock and outdoor precautions. Cost at the Pump (Maryland): Maryland’s gas tax rate rises to 46.6 cents per gallon starting next month, a small increase that could still matter for frequent drivers. Aviation & Travel Policy: A U.S. Senate panel grilled DHS on plans that could disrupt customs processing at “blue-city” airports, adding uncertainty for travelers heading through major hubs.

Transportation & Safety: A bus driver tied to the deadly I-95 chain-reaction crash in Virginia has been indicted on additional involuntary manslaughter charges, with reporting also pointing to prior speeding citations in Maryland and other states—another reminder for travelers to watch work-zone slowdowns and for carriers to tighten safety. Local Travel Alerts: Maryland State Police say an escaped emu briefly slowed traffic near the Ocean City exit before being recovered and returned to its owners. Road & Gas Costs: Maryland’s gas tax rate is set to tick up slightly July 1, adding a small per-gallon increase on top of the federal tax. Outdoor Season Health: Tick activity is surging in Maryland and nearby states, with doctors urging extra precautions outdoors and quick removal if you find an attached tick. Family-Friendly Summer Plans: Baltimore’s outdoor movie season is back with free screenings at spots like the American Visionary Art Museum and other city parks. Travel Tech & Health: Johns Hopkins researchers say magnetic imaging could help track cell therapy injections—potentially improving how treatments are delivered. Aviation & Routes: Southwest is changing service at New Orleans and other airports, which could mean fewer direct options for some travelers. Culture & Community: Sikh leaders in Maryland met with Pakistan’s minority affairs minister to discuss restoring historic shrines and keeping pilgrimage access open.

Road Safety Reminder: Maryland drivers are being urged to watch for turtles crossing roads during nesting season, especially near wetlands, wooded areas, and low-lying roads. Travel Disruption (Local): An escaped emu caused hours of traffic delays and a long Maryland State Police pursuit near Salisbury before being captured with a dog leash. Air Travel Policy: Southwest is loosening its extra-seat rules for plus-size passengers, allowing a free adjacent seat at the gate when available. Caribbean Nonstop Boost: United Airlines is adding nonstop Newark–St. Croix service starting Oct. 31, giving travelers another direct gateway to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Tourism & Events (Maryland): Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel is sharing June events, and Blue Angels practice flights are slated for June with details on how to see them. Family Travel & History: Rehoboth students visited Maryland’s Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center for leadership-focused learning. Community Travel Impact: Ocean City and Blood Bank of Delmarva plan a June 4 summer blood drive at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Big Picture (Travel-Adjacent): A fatal I-95 bus crash in Virginia is tied to a driver with prior speeding accusations, including a past case in Annapolis, Maryland.

Ocean City Air Safety: A SeaRey amphibious plane made an emergency landing in Assawoman Bay behind Seacrets after a stabilizing float (sponson) appeared to detach; no injuries reported, with Maryland Natural Resources Police and the U.S. Coast Guard investigating. Baltimore Travel & Events: Sail250 Maryland & Air Show Baltimore is set to bring 40+ international tall ships and major U.S. Navy/Coast Guard vessels to the Inner Harbor and beyond, with free public tours and an air show featuring elite teams from June 24–30. Media Disruption for Travelers: Scripps Local Media pulled 54 local stations from DIRECTV in a retransmission-rate dispute, going dark starting 7 p.m. ET—potentially affecting live sports and election coverage. Local Pride Programming: Anne Arundel County Public Library announced Pride Month events across branches, including storytimes, crafts, teen nights, and an LGBTQ history program. Outdoor Fun in Maryland: Harbor Swim 2026 spotlights urban open-water swimming in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor/Patapsco River, with organizers emphasizing water testing and community participation. Southern Maryland Motorsports: The NHRA Potomac Nationals at Maryland International Raceway drew large crowds and set Sunday championship eliminations after record-setting qualifying. Travel Planning Note: If you’re heading to the 2026 World Cup, ticket prices may be under scrutiny, but already-purchased MetLife Stadium tickets remain valid for now.

Sail250 Maryland & Air Show Baltimore: Baltimore is gearing up for June 24–30 with 14 international tall ships plus U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels, offering free public tours across the Inner Harbor, Fells Point and more, and featuring the Blue Angels as the city’s standout air show. NHRA Potomac Nationals: Maryland International Raceway in Mechanicsville wrapped qualifying with sellout crowds and big-name No. 1 qualifiers ahead of Sunday eliminations, putting Southern Maryland on the national motorsports map. Ocean City Seaplane Incident: A SeaRey flying boat made an emergency landing in Assawoman Bay behind Seacrets after a stabilizing float came off; officials say no one was hurt and the Maryland Natural Resources Police and Coast Guard are handling it. Maryland Fishing Update: Striped bass season rules shift June 1, with Bay and tidal river waters opening until July 31 (19–24 inch slot, one fish per day), plus guidance on using non-offset circle hooks. Respect Maryland Roads: Maryland DOT’s new campaign targets littering, citing about $17 million a year spent on cleanup and urging drivers to use trash cans and dumpsters instead of road dumping. Travel Weather: Expect a sunny, cool-to-mild end-of-May weekend across Maryland, with temps warming into the 70s.

NHRA Potomac Nationals: Maryland International Raceway in Mechanicsville kicked off the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals, with thousands of fans packing the Budds Creek facility for Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle qualifying ahead of Saturday and Sunday eliminations. Weekend sports & crowds: The Annapolis Blues are expecting a record crowd at their Home Opener, while the Roots Picnic returns to Belmont Plateau in Fairmount Park for a bigger-than-ever two-day run. Family travel logistics: A childcare placement agency, Shoreline Sitters, expanded into Rehoboth Beach and Lewes with a summer nanny program aimed at beach-season visitors and residents. Local getaway ideas: A fresh Annapolis weekend guide highlights waterfront dining and stays, including Curate and the 134 Prince manor-house hotel. Travel headaches: A UK dad stranded in Greece after new passport rules blocked him from boarding his Jet2 flight—an early warning for summer travel document checks. Community food access: A free grocery store opened inside a Prince George’s County library, partnering with Goodr to serve more than 200 families monthly.

Sail 250 & Baltimore Harbor: A controversial superyacht tied to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas’ undisclosed luxury travel has slipped into Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, drawing fresh attention as Sail250 Maryland ramps up. Meetings & Tourism: Visit Seattle named Rachael Riggs VP of meetings and conventions, with prior experience including Visit Baltimore—good news for regional event planners watching sustainability trends. Transit Upgrade: The U.S. DOT announced $466M for Washington Union Station improvements, aiming to modernize the historic hub for the 37M annual riders and tourists. Southern Maryland Motorsports: NHRA’s inaugural Potomac Nationals at Maryland International Raceway brings a full weekend of drag racing plus fan events and local star Kelly Clontz. Beach Season Prep: St. Mary’s County kicked off summer beach water testing with weekly updates and a long list of monitored swimming spots. Local Travel Weather: Baltimore-area forecast stays sunny and brisk, ideal for hiking and camping before a warmer, more humid stretch next week. Family Travel Safety: A wrong-way crash on I-83 in York County killed two, including a Maryland driver—another reminder to slow down on highways.

Ocean City Jeep Week: Ocean City drew jeep lovers for a day in the sand during 2026 Jeep Week, with jeeps crawling on the beach Friday, May 29. Racing in Southern Maryland: Hundreds packed The Barns at New Market for a free NHRA Potomac Nationals Fan Fest ahead of the inaugural event at Maryland International Raceway in Mechanicsville. Beach safety updates: St. Mary’s County health officials are testing water quality at public beaches throughout summer, with results posted weekly and guidance to check advisories before swimming. Local travel logistics: The Baltimore Ravens Roosts Parade returns to Ocean City Saturday morning, with lane closures on Baltimore Avenue and expected congestion around the route. Air travel policy: Southwest updated its plus-size seating approach—no longer requiring customers to buy an extra seat in advance, with airport staff able to provide one when available. Gas prices: AAA reports the national average for regular gas is down 12 cents to about $4.42, though prices could stay elevated into summer. Road safety: A wrong-way crash on I-83 in York County killed two people and involved four vehicles. Maryland policy: Gov. Wes Moore vetoed a bill that would have limited public access to divorce records.

Baltimore Tourism & Events: Sail 250 Maryland & Airshow Baltimore is set to bring 14 international tall ships to the Inner Harbor for free public tours June 24–30, with dozens of vessels expected across the city and four elite precision aerobatic teams flying together. Local Travel & Dining: Ocean City’s summer food scene gets a boost with a roundup of new beach-town restaurants, hotels, and things to do—plus fresh openings like Oysters & Scales and Bai-Tee Bakery & Cafe. Family-Friendly Weekend Ideas: A “Weekend road trips” and “outdoor dining” style guide points travelers toward easy, casual summer plans across the region. Community & Safety: A tree crash in Pasadena closed the loop on storm-season hazards after days of heavy rain, while Baltimore’s Inner Harbor saw a dramatic water rescue near Pratt Street. Policy That Hits Travel: Maryland’s veto fight over SB 459 (state ad spending for local news) and the debate over dynamic pricing both signal how rules and pricing can shape what visitors pay and where they go.

Marine Wildlife Alerts: Maryland DNR is asking beachgoers, boaters, and anglers to report marine mammal and sea turtle sightings and strandings this summer, using the Natural Resources Police Hotline (800-628-9944) or an online form. Southern Maryland Tourism & Events: The NHRA Potomac Nationals kick off May 29-31 at Maryland International Raceway in Mechanicsville, bringing national drag racing and a big tourism boost to Southern Maryland. Travel & Lodging Ideas: Luxury “stationary boat charters” are testing the staycation market on the Intracoastal Waterway, with floating suites built in Baltimore and docked for visitors. Air Travel Watch: JetBlue plans its first-ever Venezuela route—nonstop Fort Lauderdale to Caracas—pending government approvals. Family Travel Planning: Southern Maryland’s wedding guide highlights local venues and vendors, making it easier for couples to plan without long-distance travel. Local Fun & Food: USA TODAY’s 10Best crowns Baltimore-based Royal Farms No. 2 for gas station brands and food, while Kwik Trip takes the top spot nationally. Shore Culture: A debate over who gets to call themselves “from the Shore” is heating up as Memorial Day crowds roll in.

Maryland Beach Season: St. Mary’s County kicks off its 2026 beach water monitoring season, a key step for safer summer swimming. Coastal Safety & Tourism: Rehoboth Beach Patrol starts its 105th season with new captain Nico Caceres and lifeguards on duty through Sept. 20—another reminder that beach staffing is ramping up across the region. Outdoor & Family Fun: Cambridge Classic Powerboat Regatta roars back to life after a rain washout, keeping the Chesapeake tradition alive with racers traveling from the Mid-Atlantic and Canada. Travel Planning for Marylanders: A new Seastreak ferry offers a car-free NYC-to-Jersey Shore option on limited days, trading flexibility for set schedules—useful for planned beach trips. Local Travel Watch: Maryland Fishing Report (May 27) highlights striped bass rules and upcoming opening dates, plus bait-hook guidance for anglers. Arts & Culture: The Philadelphia Orchestra’s artistic leadership shifts as Jeremy Rothman heads to Seattle Symphony—good news for arts fans tracking major regional programming changes.

Maryland Travel & Tourism: Assateague State Park upgrades: The Maryland DNR rolled out new bathrooms, changing stations, slip-resistant flooring, better lighting, and 12 ADA-accessible boardwalk showers ahead of summer. Beach season prep: St. Mary’s County Health Department kicked off its 2026 beach water monitoring season. Chesapeake Bay cleanup: $3.7M was approved to restore Indian Head shoreline and reduce pollution flowing into the Bay. Destination spotlight (Baltimore): Visit Baltimore’s new leadership is pushing convention and event growth, with planned modernization at the Baltimore Convention Center. Outdoor & family travel: Fishing-friendly Bay news: Maryland’s striped bass season rules get clearer starting June 1, with a Bay-wide opening through July 31 and a 19–24 inch slot plus a one-fish daily limit. Weather watch: A severe thunderstorm watch hit Southern Maryland with damaging wind and hail risk, a reminder to plan around stormy travel days.