Cherry Blossom Countdown Begins: Patch PM

Here are some stories to share this evening from Patch sites across Maryland:

2017 Cherry Blossom Update: The Opening Ceremony Kicks Off Saturday
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is now just a few days away, with the official kickoff set for Saturday, March 25.

Correctional Deputy Charged In Domestic Assault
The officer allegedly pulled out a personal gun and hit his estranged wife in the head in front of their children, according to the Harford County Sheriff's Office.

Japanese Pop Star To Tape TV Show At Greenbelt High School
Pop superstar May J is known for recording the official Japanese version of "Let It Go" for Disney's Frozen.

Drug Raids Seize $6K In Heroin, $12K In Cash; 4 Charged: Anne Arundel Police
Four men face multiple drug trafficking and weapons charges after three drug raids on Tuesday.

PG County Cop Nearly Dies In His Cruiser, Is Saved by Lifelong Friend
The two were on the phone together when the officer's speech suddenly became slurred, and the line disconnected.

Downtown Wheaton Gets 6 New Capital Bikeshare Stations
Residents can join Bikeshare for an annual, daily or three-day fee, or a ride for up to 30 minutes at a time.

Edgewood Man Wanted In Arson: Fire Marshal
Authorities allege a man tried to burn down his house Wednesday morning after a family dispute.

Chipotle To Donate Half Its Proceeds Thursday To Area YMCAs
Stores participating: Annapolis, Baltimore, Bethesda, Bowie, Chevy Chase, Clinton, Edgewater, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Greenbelt, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Olney, Rockville, Severna Park and Silver Spring.

Patch PM shares a few of the day’s must-read items from our Maryland network. The Patch community platform covers communities across the state.