US Attacks Venezuela, Captures Maduro
The US launched an assault over the weekend on the Venezuelan capital of Caracas that took leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife into American custody and has set the stage for the US to run the South American nation. The military operation, dubbed Absolute Resolve, involved more than 150 aircraft — bombers, fighters, intelligence, reconnaissance, surveillance, and rotary wing.
Maryland Deer Harvest Decreased in 2025
Maryland hunters reported harvesting 27,620 deer during the two-week firearm season from November 29 through December 13.
Christmas Tree Disposal Available Until Jan. 31
St. Mary’s County residents may drop off undecorated Christmas trees at the St. Mary’s Landfill and convenience centers, free of charge, through January 31, 2026.
PTLT Sets Training for Property Monitors, Seeks Weed Warriors
Monitoring the Patuxent Tidewater Land Trust’s beautiful properties is a favorite volunteer activity. Great for people who like to walk outdoors. Interested? Monitor training will be provided in January.
State Tree Nursery Taking Orders for 2026 Planting
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources online tree seedling catalog is now open and accepting orders for spring 2026 planting at nursery.dnr.maryland.gov.
Arts Council Notes 2025 Accomplishments
Susie Glauner, executive director of the St. Mary’s County Arts Council, offered an end-of-the-year thank you in its latest newsletter highlighting the group’s accomplishments in 2025.
R&P Plans Semi-Formal Dances for Kids
Registration is open for the St. Mary’s County Recreation and Parks 2026 Mother-Son and Daddy-Daughter dances to be held at the Loffler Center at Chancellor’s Run Regional Park.
Lots Happening at St. Mary’s Libraries in 2025
St. Mary’s County Library recently release its 2025 annual report, marking what it called “a great year!” “We are as strong a support to community as ever,” says Michael Blackwell, library director.
SMECO: Legislative Energy Relief Is Coming
Many residential Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative members saw a credit on their August bills, thanks to the Legislative Energy Relief Refund, a statewide effort to help offset high energy costs. The refund was created through Maryland HB 1035. The winter 2026 credit will be applied to eligible January bills.
Pentagon End-of-Year Contracts
These US Department of Defense contracts were awarded in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC, on December 22 and December 23, 2025.
