SIG Man, I second the advice that you got - get on the payroll at your friends business, your application needs to materially true, they do check.
As my handle indicates, I currently live in VA, have a valid CCW here, but I plan to move down to Solomons in a few years, and am trying to figure out how to work the system. You should go to the NRA site and read/study the MD CCW requirements and network with locals to determine how to work the system, i.e. what really works. Living on the eastern shore or southern MD, where the local culture (and constabulary) is more gun friendly should work in your favor. A letter form your county sheriff or other local LEO goes a long way when you apply.
I know this sucks, but you need to learn to work the system until more rational laws & politicans (and the public mindset) gets over their collective cranial rectitus, that's the way it is.
BTW, It was PG county, it's okay to say 'black guy', here as long as you're being accurate/descriptive. We don't much care for racial comments or ethnic slurs here, but sometimes context is necesary or appropriate. TFL is a pretty diverse place, most of us are adults and can deal with honest commentary, by all means, speak your mind, but please be honest.
Good luck, M2
[This message has been edited by Mike in VA (edited October 03, 1999).]