Current Chesapeake
December 1, 2011
Priceless
Proudly Serving Calvert and Anne Arundel Counties
Beach Gambling Debated See Page 3
Pit Bulls Jump Jogger See Page 8
Holiday Events Calendar See Pages 22-23
Where The Lights Shine Brightest
Page 12
BUY LOCAL - BUY BBG
Where The Lights Shine Brightest
Visit the businesses listed below for the best in local products and services:
The most beautiful beacons on the Bay are in our own backyard! Find out where you and your family can enjoy the most festive Christmas light displays around – plus two lighted boat parades - in our clip and save Current Guide to Christmas Lights. Cover Story Page 12.
Calming Storm
In the last Chesapeake Current, you read about Storm, the cat separated from his family for over two years, and we told you the story of a Harwood rescue organization looking for a way to reunite them in Las Vegas for the holidays. Fortunately, this issue, we can report a very happy ending… the story on page 15.
God Bless Us Every One
Get in the Christmas spirit with an amazing musical production of “A Christmas Carol,” starring more than 80 local children. Find out more about the latest production by the Twin Beach Players on page 21.
Also Inside
2
Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
3 9 10 12 14 15 16 18 20 21 22
Community On The Water Taking Care of Business Cover Story Community Letters In Remembrance Education Business Directory Music Notes Out & About
Fisher Addresses Gambling Sunset
At Town Hall Meeting It was standing room only for the first of three Town Hall meetings scheduled by Delegate Mark Fisher (R-District 27B) to hear from voters in advance of the January session of the Maryland General Assembly. At North Beach Town Hall, Fisher was greeted by a sea of yellow t-shirts emblazoned in red with the words “Save Our Jobs.” They were worn by owners and employees of the four Chesapeake Beach establishments with pull-tab Bingo machines: Rod ‘N’ Reel, Trader’s, Abner’s Crab House, and Crooked I, along with buttons saying, “I Vote.” Mary Lanham of the Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa said about 100 of their employees were on hand. It was estimated that about 300 jobs in Chesapeake Beach depend on the establishments that have the pull-tab machines. But one person in the audience said, “Teaching jobs, jobs at Roland’s, so many jobs are dependant so this affects the entire area.”
Del. Mark Fisher was greeted at his first Town Hall meeting by a sea of yellow t-shirts saying, “Save Our Jobs.”
The question asked repeatedly was whether Fisher would support an extension or elimination of the “sunset,” or end of the gaming machines, scheduled for July 2012. His answer was yes. But he said there are two very important issues that will need to be addressed at the same time: fighting the state for a piece of the pie that it now gets and ensuring that all operators pay the same amount. According to figures from Fisher, gross revenues from the machines in Chesapeake Beach in fiscal year 2011 was $139,230,200. The Town of Chesapeake Beach receives one half of one percent of that, or about $700,000 a year. The State of Maryland’s take is $8.5 million, although it was revealed by one of the operators that they also pay 6% state sales tax and it was not clear if that amount was reflected in Fisher’s numbers. With the state facing a $1 billion budget deficit, Fisher said that it’s likely that there will be an effort to take even more local money out of Chesapeake Beach gambling establishments. The
delegate told the crowd, ”There’s a money-sucking, blood-sucking machine in Annapolis that’s leaving everyone else to fight over the crumbs. My question is: how can we slice the pie more appropriately?” Chesapeake Beach Council Member Bob Carpenter noted that with drops in real estate taxes, the town can’t afford to lose the money. “We’re a small town, and we’re trying to get new revenue. Municipalities are seeing their highway user funds cut, and police aid taken away by the state. If we lose this money, we can’t make it up. We hope for your support and to maintain what we have,” commented Chesapeake Beach Council Member Stewart Cumbo, who was applauded. Fisher said he would fight to at least maintain that amount, but it’s his goal to try to increase what money that comes back to Calvert County, primarily to support education. Chesapeake Beach Council Member Valerie Beaudin noted that some members of the Town Council tried to increase their local share from one half of one percent to three-quarters of one percent but the state said they could not do that. She asked Fisher to find out why. Pat Mahoney, another Chesapeake Beach Council Member, asked Fisher whether the gambling could be extended to North Beach and Southern Anne Arundel County, which he said could hurt Chesapeake Beach. Fisher said he had only heard talk of possible expansion to Rosecroft Raceway in Prince Georges County, which could potentially impact Chesapeake Beach. Fisher said he had also heard talk in Annapolis of possibly expanding types of gambling to include table games, but stressed that there’s been no legislation introduced.
The next Town Hall Meetings with Delegate Mark Fisher are scheduled for:
Toys For Tots In High Demand At a recent Toys For Tots Drive at the Calvert County Fairgrounds: Gregory Jones of the Calvert County Joy Riders; Navy Reservist Jerry Kepich; toy donors, Patty Spencer and Lisa Ramsey-Meyers of Prince Frederick; Sgt. Trigger, a Reservist at Quantico who lives in Lusby; Gunnery Sgt. Wickenden with the PAX Maine Air Detachment; and Timothy Hoernig of the PAX River Marine Corps.
“We have more people signed up right now then we did in the entire campaign last year,” says Jerry Kepich of Chesapeake Beach, a Navy Reservist who is instrumental in coordinating local Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. “Eighty families are signed up already. The Chesapeake Current really helped us last year, and we expect a lot more families – and donations - before Christmas, when the word gets out.” So what do kids want this year? “Just the smallest things can make little kids so happy,” he says. Sports gear including footballs, soccer balls, and basketballs are perennial favorites for boys. Girls like dolls, including Barbies, and art supplies. For teenagers, jewelry, arts and crafts and bath sets are always popular. All kids like age-appropriate board games, and books. “We’re hearing a lot about the ‘Angry Birds’ characters this year,” Kepich says. “Little boys also like anything with super heroes; Spiderman, Batman, Green Lantern… and hand-held video games are big.” It’s a huge undertaking, but so many in our community have offered to help, with more than 80 collection spots. Kepich adds, “People can drop off toys at all fire stations county-wide, the Sheriff’s Department, and State Police have a box this year. Sneade’s - both locations – in Owings and Lusby are great collection points. Dickinson Jewelers will donate $5 for each “Wish List” that people fill out. You can drop off toys at Roland’s, the Stallings-Williams American
Legion Post 206 in Chesapeake Beach, and all World Gym locations participate, too. This year, the local Kmart is really involved, along with Giant Food locations, too. Oh, and if you buy a new Dodge vehicle before Christmas, they will give a $100 donation to Toys For Tots. These are just some of the big ones, but every one is very important, and list goes on and on because so many people help. You can see all participants on the web site so you know where you can drop things off. And of course, if your business or group is interested, you can register online and we’ll get you a box so you can help.” The Calvert County Joy Riders motorcycle club held a recent toy drive at the fairgrounds. Leader Gregory Jones of Huntingtown says it’s the second year they’ve helped Toys For Tots. “Last year we collected a couple of pick-up truckloads of toys, which we’ll do again this year. It’s easy, fun and a happy thing to do. It’s win-win for everyone.”
To donate to Toys for Tots, contact: PO1 Jerry Kepich, Coordinator Toys for Tots P.O. Box 428 3330 Chesapeake Beach Road Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732 (301) 379-1557 Or online at www.toysfortots.org
Thursday, December 1 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Northeast Community Center 4075 Gordon Stinnett Ave Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732 Tuesday, December 6 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Calvert Pines Senior Center 450 West Dares Beach Road Prince Frederick, MD 20678
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011
3
County Seeks Input For New Sidewalks, Bike Trails If you’re a walker or a biker in Anne Arundel County, you may want to get give your input as the county works on a Pedestrian/Bicycle Plan Update. County Executive John R. Leopold has announced the start of a comprehensive study of pedestrian and bicycle facilities in the County’s suburban and urbanized areas. He also calls upon citizens to become part of the process by attending public meetings and/or applying for appointment to the Citizens Advisory Committee. "Walking and bicycling are alternate modes of travel that should be encouraged and supported within our infrastructure," said Mr. Leopold. "This study will identify areas where improvement is needed. Input from everyday users is information that is vital to this process." The goals are to identify deficiencies in the current network of
sidewalks, trails, on-road travel lanes, crosswalks, etc. and develop a systematic way to prioritize improvements as funds become available or as development occurs. The study will focus primarily on accommodating day-to-day transportation activities, such as travel to work, school, libraries and shopping. Approximately 80% of the study is funded through a Federal transportation planning grant and it is expected to take about 18 months to
Southern Anne Arundel Chamber of Commerce presents the annual
Holiday Gift Shoppe Unique Gifts from Local Artisans and Chamber Members
complete. In addition to conducting a series of public meetings, the County Executive will appoint a Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) who will work with the Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ) and project consultant to provide ongoing citizen and community perspective. Although funding to construct new facilities is very limited," Larry Tom, Director of the OPZ, stated that "now is an excellent time to plan for the future and as the economy recovers." In the meantime, the study will help the County identify those important projects that can be
undertaken with limited resources and will serve as a guide for projects constructed by developers and Federal and State funding opportunities. OPZ will announce dates and locations for three public listening sessions in order to solicit citizen input regarding the presence, adequacy or lack of pedestrian and bicycle facilities and amenities in their communities. Residents who wish to apply for an appointment to the Citizens Advisory Committee should contact the Office of Planning and Zoning, Transportation Division at (410) 222-7440. CAC application forms will also be available at the listening sessions.
Skateboard Park Back In Line As the Chesapeake Current reported in our November 3 edition, plans for a proposed skateboard park in Chesapeake Beach are back on track. After being voted down at the October Town Council meeting, the measure was brought up again at the meeting in late November, and enough votes were mustered to get the design phase approved. Councilman Bob Carpenter, chair of the Skateboard Park Committee, tells the Current, “I’m thrilled. The design firm now has 90 days to work up a design. They’ve also agreed to come in for a meeting with skateboarders to get their views on what the park should be.” The park, which would be built at Kellams Field, could likely cost around $260,000 to construct. Wally Hollyday Designs, a southern California company will design the park under a contract for $24,000. “We have applied for a state parks and recreation grant, and are optimistic about that. Mayor (Bruce) Wahl has been in contact with Senator (Mike) Miller, so we’re looking at a variety of funding options,” Carpenter adds. Carpenter says once the funding is in place, it would take about six months to build the park, If all goes according to plan, kids could be skating there next summer.
County Gives Animal Amnesty To Owners Monday, December 5 thru Friday, December 23 Weekdays 11am-7pm • Weekends 9am-5pm 5503 Muddy Creek Rd • Churchton, MD 20733 FOR INFORMATION (410) 867-3129 Office | (410) 867-3556 Fax | southcounty@toad.net | www.southcounty.org
4
Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Unit will be holding its third annual Amnesty Week for pet owners to purchase pet licenses at a reduced cost. Licenses may only be purchased at the following locations and times: Calvert County Sheriff’s Office: through December 2 from 9:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. and on December 3 and 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Solomons Volunteer Fire Department on December 1 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The cost for a spayed/neutered pet will be $3.00 and a non-spayed/non-neutered pet will be $10.00. A copy of the pet’s current rabies vaccination and proof of spay or neuter will need to be provided to purchase the pet license. Cash or check will be accepted. For additional information please contact the Animal Control Unit at (410) 535-1600 ext. 2526.
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011
5
By Lyn Striegel
Your Money Matter$
Investing 101: Debt Securities
Bonds are securities, but they are called debt securities or fixed-income securities. In the case of a bond, you are investing your money as a loan to a corporation (or U.S. government or another foreign government) in hopes of receiving regular interest payments, as well as a return to you of the money you put up to buy the security, your “principal.” Bonds are used in investing for regular cash flow where you don’t have an immediate need for the principal. Bonds are issued with “maturity” dates, meaning the date the loan comes due and bond principal is paid back to you. Debt securities are traded just the same as equity securities on exchanges, and are rated by rating agencies. Moody’s Investor Services and Standard & Poor’s are rating agencies that publish bond ratings. The best quality bond is rated Aaa by Moody’s and AAA by Standard & Poor’s. They are established by looking at the issuer and its ability to repay the principal plus interest. The more creditworthy the corporation, the greater its ability to pay principal and interest, the higher the rating on the bonds it issues. Few bonds are in the triple-A category. A “high quality” bond is rated Aa by Moody’s and AA by Standard & Poor’s and an upper-medium quality bond is rated A by Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. Ratings go down from A to D. The lower the rating, the higher the risk that the issuer of the bond will be unable to repay principal and interest. The D rated bonds are highly “speculative” and are often called “junk” bonds because they are the lowest grade and may default. So who would purchase such a bond and why? The reason is interest rates on these bonds. To compensate for the low rating, the issuer pays a higher rate of interest, because they have a high default risk. The general categories of bonds are those issued by corporations, the U.S. government, municipal governments and government-sponsored, but private agencies such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that may issue mortgage-backed securities. Bonds are also called fixedincome securities. As the name suggests, when you buy a bond you are expecting regular payments of income on your loan.
plus fries & slaw
What about bond prices? The price of a bond varies inversely with the interest rate on the bond. What does this mean? It means that when the price is up, the interest is down and vice versa. Why? Bonds pay a certain interest rate. If the interest rate on a bond is 7% and a year after you buy it, interest rates on similar bonds go to 9%, your bond will not be in high demand by investors—to sell your bond, you’ll have to discount the price to make the interest payments equivalent to 9%. If you plan to hold the bond until maturity, you don’t have to discount the price. Prices of corporate and municipal bonds are quoted in points and 8ths of a point and each point is a unit of $10. You can multiply the listed price by 10 to get the actual price. For example, if a bond’s price is quoted at 95 1/2, it’s selling at $950 (95.5 X 10). Prices of Treasury bills and notes are quoted in units of 100 and 32nds of 100. To get the actual price, you multiply by the number 10. For example, if a T-bond’s price is 100 and 9/32 (100.09), to get the actual price, convert the fraction to a decimal (9/32=9 X 0.3125=2.8125), then attach it to the end of the whole number. So, a bond quoted as 100 and 9/32 is selling for $1,002.85. A bond trading at 100 is trading at its exact par value ($1,000). A bond quoted over 100 is trading at a “premium.” A bond quoted under 100 is trading at a “discount.” Bonds that pay no interest while the loan is maturing are called “zero coupon bonds.” Instead of receiving fixed-interest payments, investors holding these receive a lump sum at maturity. Corporate, municipal and Treasury bonds are available as zero coupon bonds. You buy zeros at a deep discount, far lower than the par value. When the zero matures, the accrued interest and the original investment add up to the par value of the bond. Zeros look good to investors with a long time horizon because they are inexpensive. However, keep in mind that unless you purchase tax-exempt municipal zeros or you buy them in a tax-free account (such as through a qualified retirement plan), you will have to pay tax every year on the interest you would have received as if it had been paid to you. Zeros have long times to maturity. Keep in mind that the market for zeros is highly volatile and if you need to sell before the zero reaches maturity, you may lose money. Another way of looking at bonds and interest rates involves the risk of holding a bond over time. The longer a bond has until it matures, the greater the risk that the issuer of the bond could default and typically longer-term bonds will pay a higher rate of interest to compensate for that default risk. “Yield” is the amount you actually earn in bond interest expressed as a percentage. So, if you buy a 10-year $1,000 bond paying 6% and hold it to maturity, you’ll earn $60 a year for ten years. This is an annual yield of 6%, the same as the interest rate. But, if you buy in the “secondary market” after the bond is issued, the bond’s yield may not be the same as the interest rate—that’s because the price you pay for the bond affects the yield. For example, if a bond’s yield is 5%, it means your interest payments will be 5% of what you pay for the bond today. You will get back 5% of your investment annually. Another way of measuring a bond’s value is called “yield to maturity.” This is a complicated mathematical formula that takes into account the interest rate, price, purchase price in relation to par value and years remaining to maturity. Yield to maturity can be found through brokers or on websites. Finally, many corporate bonds have “redemption” features. This means that the corporation can redeem or call all the bonds by paying off the principal at any time. Redemption features complicate long-term planning and any bond you purchase should be studied to see if it has redemption features. Have a question about Money Matters? Email legalstriegel123@yahoo.com. Next issue: debt securities. About the Author: Lyn Striegel is an attorney in private practice in North Beach and Annapolis. Lyn has over thirty years experience in the fields of estate and financial planning and is the author of “Live Secure: Estate and Financial Planning for Women and the Men Who Love Them (2011 ed.).” Nothing in this article constitutes specific legal or financial advice and readers are advised to consult their own counsel.
4160 Mears Avenue 410-257-2427 www.CBResortSpa.com 6
Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
Redistricting Plans Approved Changes Commissioner Elections
By Susan Shaw President, Calvert County Board of Commissioners
What Should Be Allowed On Farms? Recently in the Chesapeake Current, I alerted you to Plan Maryland (PlanMD.com), a proposed septic bill and Watershed Improvement Plans (WIPs) that seek to reduce the Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) of pollutants going into the Chesapeake Bay. I also explained about a recent zoning hearing that addressed a controversial topic: what should a nursery be allowed to sell. The other controversial zoning issue, which is awaiting Planning Commission action before their recommendation is forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), involves what activities will be permitted on Agricultural Preservation Districts (APDs). APDs are agricultural land that has been certified for a specific number of Transferable Development Rights (TDRs) to be sold in return for a deed restriction that requires that the land remain agricultural forever. What agritourism or ecotourism or other uses should be allowed on a working farm? Currently, the Zoning Ordinance is contradictory. In an effort to clarify, without confusion, an unlimited number of events were proposed. Corn mazes are already allowed. So are commercial kitchens on farms. As I described in my last article, restrictions are placed on nurseries and greenhouses on farms or outside town centers. What about farm equipment repair or sales? Should farm stands be allowed? If so, should they be limited in size or in what they can sell? Remember that MOST retail was supposed to be limited outside of Town Centers to maintain the rural character of Calvert. The main controversy stems over events on APDs, however. There was a proposal that only non-profit events be held on APDs, except for two other events allowed per year, like weddings, reunions, concerts, picnics, parties, political fundraisers, for example. Additionally, the Agriculture Preservation Advisory Board (APAB), citizens connected to farming and appointed by the BOCC, wants to be able to approve or deny each event at their monthly meetings. Working farms, including vineyards, are often beautiful and scenic locations for events like weddings and those just listed above. The members of the APAB do not want these events on farms. They embrace "traditional" agriculture. However, other Advisory Boards including the Economic Development Commission (EDC), the Tourism Advisory Commission (TAC), the Agriculture Commission (AC), which promotes agriculture, and others disagree. They point out that weddings and other events draw guests and tourists to our hotels and restaurants and make our whole local economy viable while encouraging a positive attitude about agriculture and greater knowledge of local farms. Do you see how complicated zoning and allowed uses become? What is your opinion on this controversial topic? Should a vineyard be allowed to host weddings and concerts, as in other counties? If so, with what restrictions? Should a farm also host an agricultural education center? To make comments on either of these zoning issues, go to www.co.cal.md.us, then Planning and Zoning on the home page or call (410) 535-1600 and ask for Planning and Zoning. How " business-friendly" should Calvert County be regarding preservation areas? Stay tuned as this debate continues....
The Board of County Commissioners has approved recommendations from the Calvert County Redistricting Committee following a nearly five-month process to solicit citizen input. The approved recommendations are: - Increase the number of county Election Districts from three to five. - Commissioner candidates should run countywide to represent the five districts. The candidate from each Election District receiving the most votes would win the district. - The commissioners' president should continue to be elected annually by the board members. The nine-member committee mounted a wide-ranging public campaign to garner feedback on local redistricting and more than 740 residents completed a survey distributed by the committee. Survey results showed that 45 percent favored no change in the current system while 50 percent preferred more election districts. Sixty-four percent preferred that the BOCC choose its president annually. The Maryland General Assembly would need to pass legislation in the coming session allowing the county to redraw its election districts. The local process is part of a larger Congressional and State Legislative redistricting effort underway in the wake of the 2010 U.S. Census. Calvert County Redistricting Committee's full report, survey statistics and more are available on the county website.
Certified Public Accountant
PATRICIA O. BLACKFORD, CPA, LLC Individual Tax and Planning Small Business Tax and Consulting New Business Startup Accounting/Bookkeeping/Payroll Divorce Planning Estate Tax & Administration 410.257.5514 • 301.855.5514 3140 West Ward Rd, Suite 108, Dunkirk, MD
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011
7
Davidsonville Pit Bull Attack Anne Arundel County Police report on Monday, November 28, they were called to Davidsonville Park in the 3100 block of Patuxent River Road for an aggressive animal complaint. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim, a 23-year-old male from Davidsonville, who reported that he was jogging in the rear of the park when he observed an adult male handling three dogs on retractable leashes. One of the dogs managed to get loose and bite the victim. During the attack, the dog handler fled the area with one of the three dogs, leaving the other two dogs behind. The victim was eventually able to run away and call the police. According to the victim and witnesses, at least two of the dogs had been fighting at some point. Animal Control responded to the scene and officers were able to quickly locate and recover one of the two dogs that had been left in the park, described as a white, brown and black American Bulldog mix. The dog had visible wounds indicative of having been in a dogfight and was bleeding. The second dog had fled the area prior to the arrival of officers and Animal Control. A citizen later located the second dog, a white and black American Bulldog mix, trapped and confined in a wooded area. The dog was extremely aggressive and ultimately had to be tranquilized to be safely removed by Animal Control officers. That dog also had visible wounds indicative of having been in a dogfight and was bleeding as well. The dog later died en route to Animal Control. At this time, the animal’s cause of death is unknown, but the investigation is ongoing by Animal Control and the Southern District. The victim was transported by a family member to Anne Arundel Medical Center and was treated for wounds to his arms and legs. The dog handler who left the area is being described as a black male in his mid 20’s with some facial hair, wearing a green jacket, sunglasses and a Green Bay Packers hat that was recovered at the scene. He was possibly seen leaving the area in a gold-colored Dodge minivan with white logos on the sides traveling south on Patuxent River Road. Anyone with information on the location of the third dog or on the identity or whereabouts of the dog handler that fled the scene is asked to contact Animal Control Officer Serena Beckner at (410) 222-8900 ext. 3008.
Police Blotter Calvert County Sheriff’s Department Reports: Assault On November 26 around 11:30 p.m. while on routine patrol in the North Beach area, Cpl. A. Moschetto observed a group of people outside Neptune’s Seafood Pub at 1st and Chesapeake Avenue. Cpl. Moschetto heard one man yelling profanities and racial slurs. When the officer contacted the suspected offender, the man swung at Cpl. Robert Reid Moschetto and the two ultimately fell to the ground in a scuffle. Additional units responded to assist and the suspect was subdued and arrested. Robert A. Reid, 48, of Chesapeake Beach, was charged with the second degree assault of a woman inside Neptune’s, disorderly conduct, second degree assault of Cpl. Moschetto, intentionally causing physical injury to a police officer in the performance of his duties and resisting arrest. Thefts DFC P. Wood responded to the Prince Frederick Walmart store for the report of a theft on November 19 at 2:45 p.m. The store security officer had two suspects in custody for stealing items and also squirting liquid dishwashing soap on the floor throughout the store. Sophia Marie Burgos, 18, of Huntingtown, was arrested and charged with theft under $100, maliciously defacing the personal property of Walmart causing damage less than $500, recklessly engaging in conduct creating a substantial risk of death or physical injury, and possession of marijuana. The second suspect was identified as a 16-year-old male from Dunkirk. He was charged on a youth report with theft under $100, reckless endangerment and destruction of property and released to a parent. He was also cited for possession of tobacco products by a person under the age of 18. A black metal business sign valued at $250 was stolen from in front of Big Top Kids Consignment Shop on Dalrymple Road in Sunderland between November 23 and 26. Anyone with information is asked to contact Dep. Y. Bortchevsky at 410-535-2800.
State Police Barrack U Reports: Possession With Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Phencyclidine Trooper First Class Sorenson stopped a vehicle for traffic violations on Rt. 4 at Town Center Blvd. in Dunkirk on November 20 at 10:15 a.m. During a search of the vehicle, a large amount of cocaine and phencyclidine were located, and a large amount of cash was also seized. Phillip Q. Lewis, 29, of Upper Marlboro, was arrested and incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center. Assault on Police Officer Trooper First Class Lewis and Trooper Barlow stopped to assist a motorist on Rt. 261 west of Rt. 260 in Chesapeake Beach on November 24 at 11:59 p.m. The passenger, Teresa A. Linton, 42, of Chesapeake Beach, became very combative and kicked TFC Lewis in the leg. She was arrested and incarcerated to the Calvert County Detention Center for processing. Thefts Trooper Esnes responded to the 11200 block of Lakeside Dr. in Dunkirk for a reported theft on November 24 at 8:31 p.m. Numerous tool items were removed from the residence and a walk-in closet ceiling was damaged. Investigation continues. Trooper First Class Landis responded to the 8700 block of E St. in Chesapeake Beach for a reported theft on November 26 at 10:00 a.m. Copper lines were stolen from the inside of two air conditioning units. Investigation continues.
8
Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
Big Rockfish Are Back, Mostly‌ By Bob Munro The Chesapeake Bay is responsible for 80 percent of the entire coastal population of Rockfish, or Stripers as they are called up north. Rockfish spawned in the Bay stay in the Bay until they reach 10 years of age (about 34-35 inches total length), when they join the migratory portion of the population. The larger fish, after spawning in Bay-area rivers during spring, migrate to the Atlantic where they turn north and head for New England waters where they spend the summer. Along their voyage they pass Ocean City (MD) and Atlantic City (NJ), where the former World Record Striper was caught 30 years ago. Then they'll pass Montauk (NY), Point Judith (RI), maybe Martha's Vineyard (MA) and Cape Cod. Sometime during October the migratory stock begins to move south as the ocean waters cool, following the coast until they reach the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay where some of the big fish turn up the Bay and return to our area by early- to mid-November. They'll stay with us some years until Christmas, depending on water temperature, food resources and other factors we don't understand. Well, this fall they arrived late and in lesser numbers than years past. Fishing for trophy-sized Rockfish should be good until December 15, the end of the Maryland Season. You could, of course, fish farther down the Bay in the Potomac River mouth or in Virginia waters where the season runs through December 31. That brings us up to date, with only two weeks left to fish Maryland waters for Rockfish. Most boats are trolling for the big fish along the main channel edges, particularly from Buoy 82 south to the Gooses Bell (Buoy 78). Recall that the Eastern channel edge is much more defined or sharp when compared to the Western edge. For example, the "Clay Banks" is the common name for the area near Buoy 80, where the water drops from 20 to 80 feet in less than a football field. Given that the big fish follow the channel edges (a big assumption), the Eastern edge should have a higher concentration of migrating fish than the Western edge. Use planer boards if you have them the more lines in the water, the better your chances. Use big parachutes - six
to 16 ounce heads or larger, trimmed with either 9 or 12 inch shad and trailer hooks. Cover the water column as best you can with the number of rods available, and include both white and chartreuse lures and shad in your spread of lures. Use inline trolling weights from four to 32 ounces - some of the largest fish will be down 40 feet or more this time of year. The recent MSSA Chesapeake Bay Fall Classic Fishing Tournament was won by Steve Dodson with a huge 51.65 lb Striper. Second place among more than 250 boats went to Andrew Turner/Lee Tippett with a 42.45 pounder, and third place was won by John Patchett with an entry of 41.5 lbs. Speaking of large Stripers, here's a photo of Don Kesling with a 45-inch Striper he caught November 19 while fishing aboard the Charter Boat "Worm" out of Chesapeake Beach (MD). The big fish fell for a 6 oz parachute with a black head and white hair, trimmed with a 12 inch white shad. Have a question about Chesapeake Bay fishing? Send your "onthewater@chesapeakecurrent.com" and we'll do our best to get you an answer.
questions
to
Don't catch 'em all, Bob Munro About the Author: Bob Munro of Chesapeake Beach has been a career research biologist for the US Fish & Wildlife Service. At one time or another, he has visited every river entering the Chesapeake Bay from the Susquehanna Flats to Hampton Roads. An avid fisherman, he's fished the mid- Chesapeake since the mid-1980s.
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011
9
And A Partridge In A Pear Tree? By Brian McDaniel
BBG Stages Annual Parade It is parade time! For a number of years, the North Beach House & Garden Club has sponsored "Santa on the Beach." In 2007, the Bay Business Group (when it was the Beach Business Group) thought it would be fun to enhance the event with a Holiday Parade involving businesses, families, organizations, etc. The final entry is Santa riding atop a local fire truck. It was a great success, and has improved and grown each year. As special events chair for the BBG, Pat Carpenter put together a parade committee to recruit for and organize the parade. It is a labor of love, and all of us that are involved in it have a wonderful time each year planning and executing this great addition to our beach communities. The Parade runs from 1st and Bay Avenue in North Beach to 7th and Bay Avenue. The reviewing stand is at 5th and Bay. Santa stops here so he can meet all of the children who have gathered. In the past, Traffic Reporter Lisa Baden of Friendship and former State Delegate, and former Maryland Veterans Affairs Secretary George Owings have been parade Emcees. This year, George will return to announce the parade from the reviewing stand. Local professional singer and Chesapeake Current account executive Clare O'Shea will warm up the crowd just before the Parade begins with a bouncy Christmas song! This year is the 5th Annual Parade and the theme is "The 12 Days of Christmas." Numerous businesses plan to represent the different parts of the song with their floats and/or costumes. My company, Crow Entertainment, will have four calling birds, including my son, daughter and their friends. Heavenly Chicken of Dunkirk will represent the three
Give the Gift of Independence By Clare O’Shea I met with Larry Herbert of Independent Home of Maryland recently, and learned that his all-American product, a walk-in tub, is now locally available to homeowners in our area. Previously, to get walk-in tubs, you had to go to Baltimore, DC or out of state, and to foreign companies. This excited me, because I could imagine how many local people might need and desire such a product (me included!) My parents both passed away within the last five years. They were great people and I really miss them, and fortunately, they lived independent lives up to the very end, even though mom was a lot more frail than dad. My father, Jim, AKA “Big Jim Castiglia,” was a great athlete in his youth, one of only twelve men in history to play NFL Football, as well as, Major League Baseball. He stayed rather hardy and took great care of Kate. I tell you this because one day I walked into their master bath and was stunned to find they had had installed a “special walk-in bathtub.” They were so thrilled with it. And I could understand why. It allowed my parents to safely enjoy a Jacuzzi tub anytime they wanted. Whoa! What a change in their lives. Comfort, luxury and safety!! They both really enjoyed the benefits of safe bathing in that whirlpool tub in their last years. Larry Herbert and his business partner, Bill Howard, are long time born raised Calvert residents and they are thrilled to be presenting the national American made brand of “Tub Safe Tubs” to Southern Maryland. “We are ‘IT’ here!!” Larry says. “I have been in the safe tub industry for the past seven years. It is really growing and we are happy to be offering this fantastic product at 25-30% savings from other national brands, because we are local. We are right here and people don’t have to pay out of town prices anymore. We also offer special Senior Discounts!” Larry’s “Tub Safe Tubs” are high quality and designer/decorator styles that fit in any décor – not orthopedic, and not like it belongs in a hospital. “They are gorgeous!” Larry replied, “Yes, and the tub offers relief from arthritis, diabetes, muscle and joint pains, insomnia, and all sorts of other conditions. We offer safe and comfortable bathing without slips or falls, at a great price, with installation by locals. I see the benefits people receive, without having anyone help them.” Call Larry Herbert or Bill Howard for a Free In-Home Consultation (1-855-8827233). What a great and unexpected holiday gift to make bathing more safe the folks!
10 Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
French Hens. The Chesapeake Garden Club will represent the five Golden Rings with their Golden Retrievers. Everyone gets involved. Last year, there were more than 100 entries, and that many, if not more are expected this year. Entries include marching bands, floats and walkers from various businesses and organiza. Children on bikes and tricycles also parade along. The event is a favorite for pet owners who walk their dogs in holiday apparel. Well-known characters from around the beaches and elected officials also participate. You’ll see antique cars, trucks and much more. However, nothing is more exciting than seeing Santa on top of a fire truck, along with Mrs. Claus and Elves. Anyone interested in participating should call Pat Carpenter at (301) 855-4265. We also invite everyone in the area to watch the parade this year. It begins at 12:00 noon on Saturday, December 3, and lasts about an hour. About the Author: Brian “Crow” McDaniel is the owner of Crow Entertainment, LLC. He serves as one of three Ethics Commissioners for the Town of North Beach and is part of the communications team for the Bay Business Group (BBG).
Chesapeake Current Business Calendar How will you grow your business in 2012? Consider becoming a member of the Bay Business Group! Contact George Mysior at (301) 980-1958 or email gmysior@gmail.com for info on joining the BBG.
Business After Hours: Thursday, December 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the College of Southern Maryland, 115 Williams Rd. Find out about various programs that CSM has to offer and let the sound of festive music being played on the piano get you in the holiday spirit! Come to the last BAH of the and if possible, please bring either a toy for the Toys for Tot campaign and/or food items for the End Hunger campaign. Boxes for both types of donations will be in the lobby. Holly Day Open House: December 13 - 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. This annual Leadshare event is held at the Chesapeake Church with breakfast and friendship. The cost of the event is a donation to End Hunger. For more information about this event or to join Leadshare, contact Raleigh Weckbaugh at (410) 610-2953 or sinplysendcards@yahoo.com. Call the Chamber office at (410) 535-2577 for details or questions about any of these items. Holiday Gift Shoppe: The Southern Anne Arundel Chamber of Commerce (SAACC) is now accepting Vendor Applications for the Annual Holiday Gift Shoppe. The Gift Shoppe opens on Monday, December 5, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. and runs through Friday, December 23. Location: Chamber Office, 5503 Muddy Creek Road, Churchton, MD 20733. For more information visit our website at www.southcounty.org or call (410) 867-3129.
Local Farmers Honored
T
o recognize the contributions that local farms make, the Calvert County Sustainable Agriculture Workgroup has presented its second annual Sustainable Agriculture Awards in four categories. The Sustainable Farmer of the Year Award went to Jim and Patty Bourne of The Lamb’s Quarter in Owings. The Bourne family has been farming the same land on Bourne Road since 1690, so good stewardship and a love of the land runs in their blood. The Bourne farm has Soil Conservation and Nutrient Management Plan sand employs best management practices to control runoff, maintain grass cover and minimize plowing or soil disturbance. The Bournes primarily follow organic practices and minimize the use of herbicides or pesticides. Four years ago, the Bournes started a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) operation that now includes 90 shareholders who buy into the program and receive boxes of produce weekly. Shareholders are also given priority to purchase the farm’s eggs, beef, pork, chickens and lamb fresh from the farm. The 2011 Green Grocer of the Year Award was presented to Chesapeake’s Bounty of St. Leonard. William Kreamer runs the business selling local produce, seafood, meat, baked goods, canned goods, dairy, honey, nursery plants, Christmas trees and firewood with many being grown on-site. A pick-your-own strawberry patch accompanies crops such as tomatoes, okra, eggplant and peppers. Chesapeake’s Bounty also hosted a smallscale CSA in which shareowners selected crops they wanted grown in rented raised beds. Kreamer’s staff planted and tended the gardens that the shareholders harvested themselves. The Buy Local Restaurant of the Year Award for 2011 went to Dee and Ricky Hardesty of Hardesty Haven Catering. With the support of their children, Blake and Holly, created a family catering business five years ago. Dee is a third-generation farmer and strives to bring her love of farm-fresh food to the catering business. Her dishes often feature food produced on her own farm as well as a wonderful assortment purchased from farms throughout Southern Maryland. The Hardesty’s mobile farm kitchen and catering trailer allows them to cook on site and serve immediately. The farm kitchen is also a great resource for the 4-H “Dirt to Dinner” group that Dee started and leads, which allows children to see farm products turned into meals. A new Sustainable Agriculture Award category this year - Sustainable Meat Producer of the Year – resulted in a tie between two local providers. Debbie and Dale Jones of Windy Willow Farm in Sunderland share the award
Cheers at Bay Wine & Spirits
The new Sustainable Meat Producer of the Year award went to two local providers. From left are Commissioner Steve Weems, Dale Jones of Windy Willow Farm, Chris Dowell of Crooked Branch Farm and Commissioner Pat Nutter. with Chris and Bryan Dowell of Crooked Branch Farm, also in Sunderland. Both farms treat their animals humanely, never feed animal by-products, only use antibiotics if medically necessary for the health of the animal and do not use growth implants. The farms also have Nutrient Management Plans and Soil Conservation Plans. The Joneses of Windy Willow Farm are third-generation farmers working the remaining acreage of what was once a 175-acre farm owned by Dale’s grandfather. They raise beef, lamb and goat. Careful attention to breeding has led them to a beef cross between a Limousine bull with Red Angus heifers to produce cattle that thrive on a 100% grass-fed diet. The result is lean meat with a full and distinct flavor. The Joneses have more than 30 regular buyers and many more occasional customers who buy directly from the farm. They also have a following at the North Beach Farmers Market where they often sell out. Dream Weaver Restaurant purchases and uses their beef and they have participated in many other venues such as providing beef for the Kiwanis to sell at the County’s Green Expo. The Dowells at Crooked Branch Farm also come from a long line of Calvert County farmers. Crooked Branch breeds and raises its beef on the farm and boasts approximately 45 acres of pasture and hay. Their beef operation feeds primarily grass and hay with a grain finish. Cattle are moved between summer and winter pastures to allow the land to rest and grass to recover between grazing. All the hay needed for winter forage is also produced onsite. Crooked Branch sells custom butchered beef that is cut to the customer’s specifications. Nominees in all categories were judged by a committee comprised of representatives from Calvert Eats Local, the Calvert County Agriculture Commission and the University of Maryland Extension, Calvert County.
Bay Wine & Spirits’ idyllic setting with views of the Chesapeake Bay, located just off the boardwalk in North Beach, offers a relaxing atmosphere to develop friendships and explore ideas all the while trying a new wine or enjoying an old favorite. Sharon Hall, a resident of Chesapeake Beach since 2006 and once part-time employee of this local wine store, is now the proud proprietor of this favorite “wine by the glass” establishment. In a relatively short period of time, Sharon has taken Bay Wine & Spirits and given it new life – and beautiful spirit. In addition to retail sales, Bay Wine & Spirits is the place to be after a walk on the boardwalk, or shopping at the local stores or even after dinner at one of the wonderful restaurants just around the corner. It won’t take long from the time you walk in the door before you have a glass of wine in your hand and you are engaged in the bavardage amongst locals and visitors alike. It is a warm, friendly neighborhood place. For those of you looking for a fun night out with a small group of friends where you will be able to actually hear each other think and talk without screaming over the loud music or across the table, give Sharon a call and she will prepare a wine tasting to suit your particular group. Bay Wine & Spirits is open Wednesday and Thursday from 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Sundays
12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Please stop by to peruse the wide selections of wines and if you don’t happen to see what you are looking for, Sharon may be able to make sure it is stock the next time you come in or she may convince you to try something new, because when Bay Wine & Spirits is open there is tasting going on. Bay Wine & Spirits is offering a 10% Discount on any three bottles, or more, through December 31, so this is an excellent place to buy local Christmas gifts and New Year’s champagnes! Cheers!
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011 11
Sharon Hall of Bay Wine & Spirits.
Holiday Farmers Market The Anne Arundel County Holiday Farmers Market is now open and will be held every Saturday through December 24th from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The market is located at the corner of Harry S. Truman Parkway and Riva Road in Annapolis. A variety of vendors from Anne Arundel County will be selling homegrown and handcrafted locally produced items. Items available include wreaths, fresh greens, baked goods, coffee, herbs, candy, seasonal produce. You can expect to find many unique gifts at the market, so go and enjoy!
Lights, Camera, Action!
On The
Chesapeake Current Christmas Lights Guide Boat Parade Boat captains and crews are invited to participate in the Solomons Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday evening, December 3 during the 27th Annual Solomons Christmas Walk. All boats, any size, shape, or make are welcome. Decorate your ship’s starboard side and more to show your holiday spirit! Prizes will be awarded for Best Original Theme, Best Sailboat, Best Power Boat, and Best of Show. Visit www.solomonsmaryland.com for more information and to register. Sponsored by the Solomons Business Association (SBA), the Solomons Island Yacht Club (SIYC), the Solomons Yachting Center (SYC), and the Patuxent River Sail and Power Squadron (PRSPS), this year’s parade promises to be the best ever! Parade participants will depart from the marina at 6:00 p.m. and will fall into parade form as Molly’s Leg is circled. Tow Boat U.S. will lead the participants up Back Creek at 6:15 p.m. and will then head back past SYC and the judges. The parade will wind behind Molly’s Leg and head out to the Patuxent River and up along the boardwalk at approximately 7:15 p.m. For more information, visit www.solomonsmaryland.com or call Sherry Reid at (410) 326-2042, ext. 19. Chesapeake Beach Festival of Trees The Town of Chesapeake Beach has a dazzling holiday light display all along Route 260, culminating with a feast for the eyes at Veteran’s Park at the intersection of Route 261. Chesapeake Beach is also launching a new
Festival of Trees this year, which it hopes will be an annual event. To participate, you can secure your lit and decorated 8-foot Norway Spruce exhibited within Chesapeake Beach Town limits during the holiday season for $300, which includes one 18" x 24" full color, holiday sign installed beside your tree with your message displayed. Advertise your business, display your family name, send a greeting, or honor the memory of a loved one. For more info, call Jim Parent at Town Hall at (410) 257-2230. Christmas House Tour Get in the holiday spirit by touring lovely local homes festively decorated for the second Republican Women Leaders of Calvert’s Christmas House Tour on Saturday, December 3 from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Refreshments will be offered at each home on the tour. Tickets are $25 each. Proceeds benefit community projects including college scholarships. To get tickets, contact Carolyn Rice, Chair of the RWLC Tour, at (410) 610-0257 or email: rice.carolyn6@gmail.com; Catherine Grasso, at (301) 855-8728 or email: nonitalian1@hotmail.com.
Featured photo is from the Brown Home of their family room tree and fireplace. Photo by Mike MacWilliams. Christmas Memories and ICE!™ Chill out at this special holiday event at Gaylord National Harbor Resort on the Potomac through January 9. ICE!™ is a 15,000 square foot indoor wonderland where your family can explore ten different holiday scenes created entirely of two-million pounds of ice, including thrilling ice slides that stand more than two stories tall. ICE!™ is hand-sculpted by 40 international artisans and kept at a chilling 9 degrees. Admission for adults: $25 - $35; kids $20-$30. Christmas Walk Begin your holiday celebrations with the annual Solomons Christmas Walk on Friday and Saturday, December 2 - 3, from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. In addition to all of the attractions on the island, the Calvert Marine Museum is serving up its own smorgasbord of holiday delights. Celebrate First Free Friday as the museum hosts a trio of local performers. Beginning at 6:00 p.m. Friday is the Cosmic Flute Choir, taking the stage at 7:00 p.m. enjoy the sounds of Patuxent Voices, and closing the evening at 8:00 p.m. is Stephen Godfrey and Robert Pfeiffer. On Saturday evening, the entertainment kicks off at 6:00 p.m. with The Good Stuff, followed at 7:00 p.m. by Southern Maryland Sound, and Patuxent Pearls will close the walk from 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Santa will there both nights; watch for the appearance by the museum’s otter. Enjoy punch and cookies on Friday. On Saturday, Santa’s Coffee House will be open with complimentary coffee, hot cocoa, and cookies. Kids may also create a holiday craft to take home. For more info, visit www.solomonsmaryland.com. Garden In Lights Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center in Solomons opens its Garden in Lights December 2 at 6:00pm. Showcasing several hundred handmade light sculptures throughout the 30-acre park, visitors will be surrounded by a holiday light show that won Maryland Life Magazine’s Best Holiday Tradition award in 2010. See mythical beasts, a circus, dancers, animated characters, the Centennial of Naval Aviation, and much more. Garden in Lights opens December 2 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm and continues until January 1, 2012; weather permitting and with limited closures (December 5-7, 12-14, and 24-25). Admission is $5 (Children 4 and under and members are free).
Lights on the Bay Through January 1 from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Sandy Point State Park, Route 50, Annapolis. Drive along the shore of the Chesapeake Bay and see more than 60 animated and stationary displays illuminating the roadway. Enjoy this annual drive through a sparkling Christmas light show, sponsored by the Anne Arundel Medical Center. $12 per vehicle. Lusby Lights The Lusby Business Association presents the Lusby Town Center’s 2nd Annual Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 10, at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Bank of America. Santa Claus will arrive in grand style courtesy of the Solomons Fire Department. Santa, along with local businesses, kick off the holiday season with the official tree lighting. "Last year nearly 100 people braved the cold to witness the town's first tree lighting. We’re so excited to be able to do the tree lighting again this year," says Nance Pretto Simmons, president of the Lusby Business Association. North Beach First Friday for the North Beach Loop businesses is Friday, December 2. Stores will be open until 8:00 p.m. for you to shop, and enjoy holiday specials and refreshments. Ask about the basket raffle! The new displays on the boardwalk and beach will be lighted that night as well. The North Beach House & Garden Club sponsors a Christmas Lights Contest each year throughout the town. Judging will be December 18 at beginning at 6:00 p.m. The winners will be announced, and prizes awarded, by the Town Council in January. There will be 3 categories: homes, businesses and townhomes. Then Celebrate the Season on Monday, December 5 at 6:00 p.m. at town hall with the Windy Hill Elementary School Choir, Calvert High School Chorus, performers from Abigail Francisco School of Classical Ballet, and a piano recital by ten-year-old Wyatt Garrett of North Beach. Free.
Winter Festival of Lights The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission presents the 25th Annual Winter Festival of Lights in Prince George’s County. Drive through Watkins Regional Park (301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, 20774) from 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. any night through Sunday, January 1 and enjoy a winter wonderland! Admission: $5/car or van; $10/multi-visit, transferable pass for cars and Eastport Yacht Club Parade of Lights vans (3 visits); $15/mini-bus or limo; $25/bus; FREE Annapolis celebrates Christmas with the on December 25! Eastport Yacht Club Parade of Lights, an annual holiday tradition with boat owners showing off their Christmas light decorations through the Annapolis Harbor. Dress warmly and bring the family to enjoy this fun-filled evening on Tuesday, December 10, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Parking will be restricted in many places near the Annapolis Harbor. However, you can park at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium off Rowe Boulevard and catch a free shuttle between the Stadium and downtown from 3:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. After the Parade of Lights, the main loading area for the shuttle buses will be at Lawyer's Mall on Photo Credit: www.VisitAnnapolis.org College Avenue in front of the State Capitol Building.
12 Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
NOW FEATURING
Stop in today and pick out your new cabinets at great savings!
Patuxent Habitat for Humanity ReStore (443) 964-4387
8900 Chesapeake Avenue • North Beach, MD 20714
SAVE 25% 90% OFF retail prices while supporting a worthy cause!
appliances, home décor, building supplies, We also accept your tax-deductible donations.
Call (301) 737-6273 and we’ll pick up your items! OPEN SATURDAYS FROM 9 AM – 4 PM WEDNESDAYS THROUGH FRIDAYS 10 AM – 5 PM
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011 13
Doctor’s Vision Brings New Light To Cataract Patients In Region
I
magine walking into cataract surgery and walking out just two hours later. Only a few years ago, it was a procedure that required multi-day hospital stays and long recovery periods. Today, thanks to medical advancements and breakthroughs in cataract treatments, the outpatient experience is now the norm – not the exception. Under the watchful eye of Dr. Maria Scott, the founder and medical director of the Chesapeake Cataract Center in Annapolis, the future for cataract patients looks brighter every day. While it is estimated that 19 million cataract surgeries will be performed worldwide this year, having access to a state-of-the-art facility like the Chesapeake Cataract Center and its highly skilled surgeons is a distinct advantage for those in our region. The newly expanded cataract facility, which is part of the prestigious Chesapeake Eye Care and Laser Center, is the culmination of many years of planning and strategic practice expansion by Dr. Scott. Its location in the Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Sajak Pavilion in Annapolis positions it in the core of the area’s rapidly growing medical complex. Dr. Scott explains, “In the next decade, more and more baby boomers will require cataract surgery. Having a world-class facility in the region is critical to serving their needs now and in the years to come.” Statistics show that about half of those who are 65 years or older begin to develop some clouding of the eye. By the age of 75, seven out of
10 people will develop cataracts that require treatment. “Getting the right diagnosis, the most appropriate treatment, and the very best doctors for your individual situation is critical,” advises Dr. Scott. “It’s important to find a practice that specializes in the latest procedures, takes the time to answer all your questions, and closely monitors your progress – before and after surgery.” One of the nation’s most respected cataract surgeons, Dr. Scott has a long list of “firsts” in her professional background. The number of cataract surgeries she has performed ranks her as one of the top cataract surgeons in the mid-Atlantic region and places her in the top 10 percent of cataract surgeons in the country. Since the founding of the Chesapeake Eye Care and Laser Center 18 years ago, her practice has grown to include a team of specialized doctors, surgeons and medical professionals who perform a full range of vision care procedures as well as oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Along with Dr. Scott, the newly expanded Chesapeake Cataract Center is home to Dr. Heather Nesti, a noted board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in glaucoma and cataract surgery. The team addresses complicated cases through integrated surgery, including cataract, glaucoma and refractive (LASIK) procedures. In September, the Anne Arundel Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors voted to approve Dr. Scott as a member of the board. She is also a member of the prestigious Society for Excellence in Eyecare, an organization of eye
specialists personally selected and recognized for their leadership and innovation. Among area physicians and eye care specialists, Dr. Scott and her practice are consistently recognized as a top choice for patient referrals, especially when their patients have medical conditions or complex eye care needs that demand a high level of expertise. A former hospital administrator, who once managed 30,000 patient visits per year, raves about the Center. “I’m usually quite critical, but this facility is the best. Everything is perfect.” Even with a long list of patient accolades to her credit, Dr. Scott never allows the practice’s reputation for excellence to rest on its laurels. “The patient experience is one we take seriously. We are hands-on doctors who, along with every one of our staff, are always here to answer questions, explain the risks and rewards, and closely monitor each patient’s progress to ensure a smooth, fast recovery,” she says. With feedback ranging from “the service was beyond excellent” to “the overall experience and results were outstanding,” word-of-mouth referrals are bringing new patients from all over the region. “We see patients today coming from points far beyond Washington and Baltimore,” Dr. Scott reports. “That’s a trust we cherish and one we’ll always strive to maintain.”
Financing available. Your purchases may be free if it snows! Details at the store!
14 Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
Sincerely, Keith Pardieck CBOCS Chairman Chesapeake Beach
In the November 17 issue of the Chesapeake Current, we told you about Storm, a cat that was lost for two years and we hoped to reunite with his family for the holidays. This issue, we are pleased to report that Storm is going home! And, thanks to a Chesapeake Current reader, another cat that was lost at BWI Airport is going to be reunited with its family as well. Here’s the update from Kathy Rude, owner of Rude Ranch in Harwood, a no-kill animal shelter in Harwood: Storm is a pretty gray tabby that belongs to 5-year-old Derek Hoffman, who is Autistic. For the first two years of Derek’s life, Storm was always by his side. One day two years ago, Storm darted outside as Derek and his mom were leaving their house in Baltimore and wasn’t seen again. Storm was found about ten miles from his original house six weeks ago. Fortunately, Storm was micro-chipped so his family could be traced. Unfortunately, Derek and his family moved to Las Vegas last year, making a family reunion between the cat and his boy more difficult. Rude Ranch Animal Rescue, a no-kill animal shelter based in Harwood, was asked by Anne Arundel County Animal Control to help Storm get home. Rude Ranch is happy to report that although Storm will be a little late for Thanksgiving, he will be re-united with his family in time for Christmas! After a bad case of the sniffles, Storm was certified healthy for the trip by Dr. Karl Riechardt, DVM, who generously donated his services. A parent of a Southwest Airlines employee volunteered to escort Storm on his flight to Las Vegas on November 30. Everyone at Rude Ranch Animal Rescue wants to thank everyone for the generous caring and support they have shown to help Derek and Storm. And thanks to a Chesapeake Current reader who offered to help Storm (after other arrangements had been made), Racer, a brown tabby that needed a ride to Sacramento, CA will be going this week. Racer and his owner were recently leaving Maryland for a new job in California. Unfortunately, Racer somehow got loose at the security checkpoint at BWI airport. Racer eventually was found at the airport, and also needs to make his own trip across the country to his person. After reading Storm’s story in the Chesapeake Current, a retired US Airways employee offered to escort Racer to his new home. Racer will be reunited this week with his owner.
ET
Thanks again to all who opened their hearts to help these families have happy holidays with their beloved pets!
TER to th Editoer
S
Dear Editor, While reflecting on reasons to be thankful, high on my list were the many new friends and colleagues met through our endeavors to help restore oysters to the Bay. Your contributions of ideas, time, and resources to make the Chesapeake Beach Oyster Cultivation Society (CBOCS) a successful and meaningful program have been inspiring, and for that I am truly grateful! Case in point, on windy and cold November 23 afternoon, the last two BOCSes of the season, donated by the Chesapeake Garden Club and the Chesapeake Station Homeowners Association, were deployed. And, all 26 BOCSes along the Railroad Trail boardwalk were winterized, with the oysters tucked in for a long winter's snooze. (When water temperatures drop to around 40 degrees F and below oysters become dormant.). This process went quickly, thanks to the winterization crew, and having a second boat provided by Mike O’Keefe. This is the second time Mike provided his boat to assist with CBOCS activities, and it is greatly appreciated. On another front, this year Beach Elementary School (BES) expanded its science curriculum to include the CBOCS program. Students will be learning first hand about the importance of oysters to the Bay ecosystem, and about ongoing oyster restoration activities. Mary Butz, one of the Beach Elementary teachers participating in CBOCS, led the first 5th grade field trip to the Railway Trail Boardwalk a couple of weeks ago and introduced the students to our oyster restoration program. The students also got a chance to learn more about water quality monitoring from Terry Klazer, Amenda Brown, and John Bacon who discussed and demonstrated various water quality tests that they conduct every month as part of the CBOCS Water Quality Monitoring Committee. Lastly, please keep an eye on the BOCSes during the winter months and report any damage to, or suspicious activity around them to the team or Chesapeake Beach Town Hall (301-855-8398).
Storm Goes Home For the Holidays
L
Thanks to CBOCS Volunteers
Kathy Rude Rude Ranch Animal Rescue Harwood, MD www.RudeRanch.org Combined Federal Campaign # 45379 Maryland Charity Campaign #4650 National Capital United Way # 9664
Now’s The Time To Help The Less Fortunate Times have become increasingly difficult for many of our friends and neighbors. Although we have been shielded from the recession by the large numbers of government jobs such as PAX River, there are many citizens who have found themselves in the ranks of the unemployed or underemployed. Recently, I visited the Chesapeake Church's food pantry in Huntingtown and spoke with my good friend Rev. Robert Hahn, who has championed the "End Hunger" campaign. The overwhelming fact is that as the holidays approach, we are faced with the sad realization that in Calvert County, there are hundreds of hungry families and children. Food pantries are emptying faster than they can be filled. It is a shameful fact that hunger has reached the stomachs of our children and is at an all time high - in a county that is ranked as one of the richest in the nation. There are food pantries in many churches, as well as "Food Depositories" throughout the county, and in the grocery stores where you shop. Please check your own shelves or pick up an extra can - or more - of food that can be shared by a family in these difficult times. Be as generous as you can. It will make Christmas a happier time for someone as it fills their stomachs - and it will fill your heart with the true Christmas Spirit. Barbara Stinnett Owings
The Chesapeake Current P.O. Box 295 North Beach, MD 20714 (410) 231-0140 Owner, Executive Editor and Publisher: Diane Burr News: Send news and calendar items to: editor@ChesapeakeCurrent.com Advertising Sales: email: ads@ChesapeakeCurrent.com or call Clare O’Shea (301) 873-5885. Friend the Chesapeake Current on Facebook and visit our breaking news site, www.ChesapeakeCurrent.com. For regional events and ideas for stay-cations, friend our sister publication, the Chesapeake Bay Tripper on Facebook or visit us online at www.ChesapeakeBayTripper.com. Current Contributors: Anna Chaney Sid Curl Cheryl Emery Nick Garrett Donald Gibson Jenny Kellner Jay Lounsbury Brian McDaniel Bob Munro
Chip Norris William “Billy” Poe Jonathan Pugh Clare O’Shea Susan Shaw Norma Jean Smith Lynda Striegel Robby Vincent, Intern
The Chesapeake Current is a locally-owned and operated, bi-weekly news magazine covering Calvert and Southern Anne Arundel Counties. None of our content is syndicated – it’s all local and all about our communities. The Chesapeake Current is available in 175+ high-traffic locations throughout our readership area, and is completely supported by ad revenue. We are a “priceless” or free publication. Want a subscription so you always stay Current? Call (410) 231-0140 for information. In this issue, we have authorized an insert from Dickinson Jewelers. If you find any, please contact us immediately and we will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law for theft of services. The Chesapeake Current is owned by Bayside Partners, LLC, which is solely responsible for the form, content and policies of the newspaper. Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. No content or images may be used for any reason without express written permission.
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011 15
Steven Banik, 26
Reatherford of Owings; his aunt Christina Ricketts of Tampa, FL and uncle Matt Bohrer of North Beach; cousins Troy, Todd, Tazz, and Brandi Bohrer of North Beach; and numerous Reatherford family aunts, uncles and cousins. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Bradley’s name may be made to Elizabeth T. Ricketts, Trustee, Bradley D. Bohrer Memorial Fund, 1040 Lower Pindell Road, Lothian, MD 20711. Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.
University of Maryland studying Home Economics and Recreation and completed a course at Mabel Honor Beautician School in Washington, DC. She worked as a beautician. She married April 11, 1936, became a housewife and continued her beautician career in her home. She was an active member of Christ Episcopal Church, Owensville and was active in the Women's Group, Youth Camp and taught Sunday school. She was an active 4-H Leader for 25 years with many participants from South Anne Arundel County. She helped found the Anne Arundel County Fair and the Youth Building and remained active at the Fair for five years. She was a member of the Anne Arundel County Farm Bureau. In about 1970, she served on the Founding Board of Directors of the London Town Public House and Gardens, which later became the Historic London House and Garden Park, for nine and one half years. Jewell was preceded in death by her parents, husband, John O. Crandell Sr., one grandchild, Wayne L. Crandell and two brothers and two sisters. She is survived by three sons, John O. Crandell Jr. and wife Lendner, Wayne L. Crandell and wife Linda and Charles A. Crandell and wife Karen; daughter, Phyllis Taylor and husband John; brother, William A. Bladen; 14 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews. Hardesty Funeral Home in Galesville handled arrangements. Interment is at Southern Memorial Gardens in Dunkirk. Memorial donations may be made in lieu of flowers to Christ Episcopal Church, Owensville and Hospice of the Chesapeake.
Steven David Banik, of Sunderland entered into rest on November 19, 2011. Steven was born on June 26, 1985 in Honolulu, Hawaii to David Agnes Buckler, 90 and Mona Banik. The Banik family Agnes H. moved to Calvert Buckler, age 90, of County in 1994 where Steven attended Huntingtown, Northern High School and graduated in 2003. passed away on Steven attended St. John Vianney Catholic November 15, Church. His hobbies included dancing, working 2011 in Prince on computers and playing computer games. He Frederick. loved all animals. He also enjoyed the outdoors She was born on and was an avid fisher, hunter and hiker. His April 16, 1921, on family remembers Steven as outgoing and the family farm on talkative. the Chesapeake Steven is survived by his parents, David Bay where she lived and Mona Banik; his sister Stephanie Banik, and her entire life. She his grandparents Ken and Jean Banik and Abdo worked on the and Lily Melki. farm and enjoyed sharing her farm with a few Lee Funeral Home in Owings handled younger folks who would come to visit her and hunt arrangements. the land. She also enjoyed crocheting, knitting, good food, and of course gardening and planting flowers. Bradley Bohrer, 18 She was predeceased by her parents Joseph Peter and Margaret Jane Buckler, siblings Mabel Bradley David Buckler, Marguerite Buckler, Chester Buckler, Bohrer, age 18, of Mark Buckler and a niece Sarah Buckler. Agnes is survived by a niece, Margaret North Beach, passed away at McCarthy of Huntingtown, and a nephew, Stewart C h i l d r e n ’ s Buckler and his wife Jan of Prince Frederick. Rausch Funeral Home handled arrangements. National Medical Memorial contributions may be made to Center in Washington, D.C. either Prince Frederick or Huntingtown Volunteer Bradley was born Rescue Squads. April 30, 1993 in Washington, D.C. Jewell Crandell, 98 Frank Mangum, 64 to Terri Marie (Reatherford) and Jewell Ardella Frank Leroy Sean D. Bohrer. Bladen Crandell, Mangum, 64, of He lived in Lothian, and attended Lothian 98, of Chesapeake Elementary, and moved with his family at age six to Churchton, died Beach, passed North Beach. peacefully away November He attended Windy Hill Elementary and 15, 2011 at his November 15. Middle Schools, and Northern High School. residence. She was born Bradley’s many interests included motorcycles, Frank was fishing, his PlayStation, watching movies and March 21, 1913 born January 19, television, especially Animal Planet, Sons of Anarchy, in Avenel, Prince 1947 in Intervention and Survivor, listening to music, eating Georges Co. to Washington, crab legs, animals, especially his three dogs, and Charles Albert D.C. to Lois rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bladen and Ruth (Violett) Bradley was preceded in death by his mother Terri. He is survived by his father Sean D. Bohrer of Virginia Bell Chapman Bladen, the oldest of 6 and William Walter Mangum, Sr. He was North Beach; grandparents Elizabeth and Buddy children. She graduated from Hyattsville High raised in Anacostia, S.E. Washington, D.C. Ricketts of Lothian and Margaret and Finley School in 1931, attended two years at the and later moved with his family to Marlow Heights, MD. He graduated from Crossland High School in 1965, and worked as an electrician for several years. He began a career Where Life and Heritage are Celebrated as a mailer and forklift operator with the Washington Post newspaper, retiring in 2010. He was married to Patricia Mangum and they lived in Shady Side. After the death of his wife, Frank lived with his brother, Bill until moving to Chesapeake Beach in the early 1990’s. Frank was a fan of the Washington Redskins and the Washington Nationals, was fond of raising tropical fish and his dog Leroy, Affordable Funerals, Caskets, Vaults, and had enjoyed bowling and playing Cremation Services and Pre-Need Planning American Legion softball in his youth. Frank was preceded in death by his wife Family Owned and Operated by Pat, and is survived by siblings William W. Barbara Rausch and Bill Gross “Bill” Mangum and wife Karen of Shady Side, and sisters Susan J. Nebeker and her husband www.RauschFuneralHomes.com Gary of Alexandria, VA, Evelyn McGuire of York, PA and Doris McArthur and husband Duncan of Pensacola, FL. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews. 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane 4405 Broomes Island Rd. 20 American Lane Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements. Interment at Resurrection 410-257-6181 410-586-0520 410-326-9400 Cemetery in Clinton, MD will be private.
During a difficult time… still your best choice.
Owings
Port Republic
Lusby
16 Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, 211 E. Lombard Street # 260, Baltimore, MD 21202 or online at www.lungmaryland.org.
Lillie Morsell, 97 Lillie Morsell was born April 9, 1914 and passed away November 22, 2011. Visitation and memorial services were held at Mt. Gethsemane Holiness Church, 676 Ponds Wood Road, in Huntingtown MD 20639. The cemetery at the church is her final resting place. Sewell Funeral Home in Prince Frederick handled arrangements.
Esther Mowry, 97 Esther Gertrude Day Mowry of Huntingtown died on November 17, 2011 at her h o m e , surrounded by her loving daughters. She was born November 15, 1914 in Washington D.C. to Clarence and Della (Curry) Day. Esther spent her early years in Congress Heights, Washington D.C., until marrying Howard Francis Mowry of Rhode Island on July 17, 1931. They then moved to San Diego, CA before returning to the Washington area in 1934. After Howard’s retirement as Deputy Chief of Police, Metropolitan Police of DC, they lived in Abell, MD before settling in Huntingtown in 1976. Esther devoted much time to her church before losing her sight in 1983. She could always found in the kitchen of Congress Heights Baptist Church helping with the dinners. She led the youth groups and taught the toddlers. She was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church From 1976 until transferring to Dunkirk Baptist Church in 2005. Esther was devoted to her family, who lovingly knew her as Gram. At large family gatherings, she and her husband would marvel at what they had started. She was preceded in death by her husband who died in 1992 after 62 years of marriage, and one daughter, Mary Louise Mowry Wright, who died in 1987. She is survived by four daughters, Barbara Taylor of Huntingtown, Ellen Wright of Ft. Meyers, FL, Sally Moore and her husband John of Springfield, VA, and Frances Fairbrother and her husband Blair of Forest, VA; a sister Libby Mathieson of St. Mary’s City, MD and two sisters-in-law Mildred Tobin and Barbara DeVerna of Rhode Island. She also leaves twelve grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren and numerous loving friends. Rauch Funeral Home handled arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to: Calvert Community Church's Food Pantry, P.O. Box 1334, Huntingtown, MD 20639 or Calvert Hospice, P.O. Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 or online at www.calverthospice.org.
Jimmy Neam, 87 James Neam, 87, of Long Beach, passed away Friday e v e n i n g , November 18, 2011 at Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg, VA. Jimmy “ C a p t a i n Neamo” was a resident of Long Beach for nearly 60 years. Survivors include his daughters, Patricia A. Rowan and Linda Neam Fellers and husband, Jack; his companion, Mary Frances Butler; his brother, Edward; his sisters, Pauline, Jeanette and Isabelle; his grandchildren, Jason, Chad, Thomas, Justin, Jeffrey and Brian; and his two great grandchildren, Braydan and Ethan. Neam, or “Neamo” as his friends called him, came to dinner with a friend of his who worked with him at the Bureau of Engraving in Washington, DC, fell in love with Southern Maryland and lived here ever since. He was on the board of directors for the Long Beach Community Association and played Santa Claus for the kids at Christmas. Neam loved to spend time aboard his 43-foot yacht in Flag Harbor and found living at Long Beach very rewarding. Covenant Funeral Service handled arrangements. A memorial service to celebrate and remember Neam’s life will be held in Long Beach in the spring of 2012.
Jack Nigh, 80 Jack Fowler Nigh, 80, a 28-year resident of Dunkirk and previously of Huntingtown, died on Tuesday, November 8, 2011 in Annapolis, of colitis. Born March 25, 1931 in Tulsa, OK, he graduated from high school in Tulsa and attended college for two years. Jack served in the U.S. Navy submarine service for nine years on the U.S.S. Skipjack. He loved woodcarving and was a member of the Anne Arundel Carver’s Club. Jack is survived by his wife, Anne Nigh; one son, Michael A. Nigh of Portland, OR; two daughters, Patricia N. Cornelius of Portland, OR and Michelle N. (Michael Shamus) Corbett of Black Mountain, NC; two sisters, Donna Nigh Jones of Dallas, TX and Anna Ruth Holland of Houston, TX; also survived by his grandchildren, Michael, David, Katie, and Courtney Nigh, Brigid Alifair and Fiona Maeve Corbett. Kalas Funeral Home in Edgewater handled arrangements.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. at Ft. Myer Post Chapel at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1041 Rt. 3N, Bldg. A, Gambrills, MD 21054 or on the web at http://bit.ly/JackNighDonate.
Inez Sullivan, 93 Inez Althea Sullivan, age 93, formerly of Friendship, passed away November 17, 2011 at the Calvert County Nursing Center in Prince Frederick where she had resided for the past six years. Inez was born August 20, 1918 in Washington, D.C. to Valerie (Germann) and Harry Waters. She was raised in Takoma Park, MD where she attended public schools. She married George A. Sullivan and lived in Takoma Park and later in Chillum, MD. She was employed as a presser at a dry cleaning facility in Takoma Park, and in her leisure time enjoyed ceramics, Bingo, reading, board games, word search puzzles and spending time with family. Her husband George passed away in 1976, and Inez had resided with her son George, Jr. in Friendship, MD from 1984 until 2002, and then had moved to Kearneysville, WV where she lived with her daughter Shirley for three years. Inez had been a resident of Calvert County Nursing Center for the past six years. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband George W. Sullivan, Sr. She is survived by her daughter Shirley L. Bonifant and husband Paul of Kearneysville, WV; a son George W. Sullivan, Jr. and wife Debbie of Friendship. Also surviving are seven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson and one great-great-granddaughter. Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.
Irene Swing, 96 Irene M. Swing was born August 5, 1915 and passed into heaven on November 19, 2011 from her home in Shady Side. She is survived by four children and one remaining daughter-in-law; eight grandchildren and seven of their spouses; ten great-grandchildren and one spouse; and one great-great-grandchild. Lee Funeral Home in Owings is handling arrangements. Memorial services will be announced and held at a later date.
Marlene Taylor, 74 Marlene C. Taylor, age 74, of Chesapeake Beach, was born September 25, 1937 and passed away on Thursday, November 24, 2011 at Calvert Memorial Hospital in Prince Frederick. She was the loving mother of Ginny Raudenbush, Bill Taylor and Debbie Bordash. She is also survived by six grandchildren; Ian, Spike, Andrew, April, Sarah and Charlene, and two great-grandchildren; Mikey and Gavin. Lee Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.
James Witten, 89 James Anthony Witten of Huntingtown was born July 28, 1922 in Evanston, IL to William and Frances Witten and passed away on November 14, 2011 at the age of 89. Mr. Witten was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Grace Brown, brother Jack Witten and daughter Dianne “CoCo” Larsen. Mr. Witten is survived by his wife, Madeleine; 12 children, James Witten, Jr. of Casper, WY, William Witten of Missoula, MT, Linda Evans of Wauconda, IL, Janet Pate of Willis, TX, Sharon Flores of Antioch, IL, Anthony Boynton of Danville, CA, Michal Boynton of Sabastopol, CA, Shawn Brennan of Sabastopol, CA, Philip Soroka of
Port Republic, Michael Witten of Lexington, VA, Linda Thompson of St Leonard, Lisa Peepers of Norman, OK, 30 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. Mr. Witten was raised in Highland Park, IL during a very difficult time in our nation, enlisting at the age of 18 into the United States Navy, faithfully serving in the South Pacific during WWII from June 1940 to September 1945 obtaining the rank of Aviation Chief Machinist Mate. After the war, he returned to Illinois to raise his family, later moving to Wyoming; the state he affectionately referred to as “home.” While in Wyoming he started several business ventures; a Dude Ranch with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans as patrons, a paint/body shop for race cars and a car wash/convenience store. In the 1970’s, he moved to Maryland to be closer to his brother where he met and married Madeleine in 1974. Although his own children were grown, he lovingly welcomed the opportunity to be a father to Madeleine’s four children. Mr. and Mrs. Witten opened up their home providing educational and loving childcare services to Calvert County children for over 25 years. Mr. Witten could always be found in his garage fixing “things” and finding a way to make “things” better. He dearly loved his family and cherished the time spent with them, was a loving husband; a devoted father, a treasured grandfather, great grandfather and great-great grandfather; a beloved brother; and was a caring neighbor and friend. His family and friends celebrate his life and accomplishments, and will forever hold dear the memories he created for all. He will be greatly missed and will live on in our hearts forever. Rausch Funeral Home in Port Republic handled arrangements. Interment will be held in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Calvert Hospice, P.O. Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.
“For six generations your family has placed trust in our family’s tradition of quality service.” Lee Funeral Home, Inc.
Lee Funeral Home Calvert, P.A.
Phone: 301-868-0900
Phone: 301-855-0888 or 410-257-0888
6633 Old Alexandria Ferry Rd. Clinton, MD 20735
8125 Southern Maryland Blvd. Owings, MD 20736
www.LeeFuneralHomes.com
IT’S IT’S NOT NOT AN AN “IF”, “IF”, IT’S IT’S A A “WHEN” “WHEN” WHEN you die, will you leave a mess or a plan to protect your loved ones?
ESTATE PLANNING—It’s not just for the wealthy, it’s for everyone. Wills. Trusts. Medical and Financial Powers of Attorney. Living Wills
Lyn Striegel
Striegel & Buchheister
30 years exp., DC, MD, VA.
Call Lyn at 301-855-2246 for a no-cost consultation. Offices in Chesapeake Beach and Annapolis
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011 17
The Chesapeake Cataract Center
Spotlight On
TM
Pride & Joy
A Chesapeake Eye Care Center of Excellence Medical Director Dr. Maria Scott is proud to announce The Chesapeake Cataract Center’s recent expansion to accommodate the increasing number of baby boomers who will need cataract surgery.
Why choose The Chesapeake Cataract Center? Experienced Surgeons – Our boardcertified surgeons are highly trained experts who have performed over 15,000 cataract surgeries. Results Oriented – Our surgeons provide the best results possible to improve full range of vision and minimize, if not eliminate, dependence on glasses. Innovative Technology – Microincisional surgery with ultrasound technology; latest lens options available to suit your lifestyle. Integrated surgery for complicated vision cases Doctors choose us for themselves & their patients Thorough evaluation, patient education & care
Maria Scott, MD Cataract and Refractive Surgeon
Private, state-of-the-art, Medicare-certified surgery center Call us to find out why our patient care earns top reviews from the thousands we’ve helped over our 20 years in practice.
THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR YOUR VISION 2002 Medical Pkwy / Suite 320 Sajak Pavilion Annapolis, MD 21401 877-DR4-2020 www.ChesapeakeEyeCare.com
Cataract Surgery | LASIK | Cosmetic & Reconstructive Eyelid Surgery Macular Degeneration | Glaucoma | Diabetic Retinopathy | Uveitis General Eye Care | BotoxŽÊUÊ ÕÛj`iÀ“Ž
18 Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
Academics, Sports and Much More By Jenny Kellner Mix sports and service and then multiply by two and you have the Huntley Brothers. Roman, age 13, and Alex, age 10, live in Owings and attend St. Mary of the Assumption School in Upper Marlboro. Both boys enjoy playing several sports and are dedicated to helping others in need. As an 8th grader, Roman is on the honor roll and President of the Junior Honor Society. The school also affords the opportunity for him to be a sacristan and, at church, an alter server. This versatile young man takes both golf and piano lessons. He plays on the varsity basketball team at school and is proud of his spot on the Calvert Cannons Select Lacrosse League. He also found enjoyment in participating in the school’s drama club. Alex is in 4th grade and maintains a perfect academic record at school. This scholar credits his 3rd grade teacher for preparing him for success. He already knows that Mrs. Regan will be someone he’ll remember forever. Alex balances piano lessons, lacrosse, basketball, arena football and outdoor football. His arena team won the Maryland State Championship this year. This five- year veteran of football plays both offense and defense and admits that he “loves to hit.� Already over five feet tall, Alex (a.k.a. Big Boogie), is an imposing opponent. He plays football for the Patuxent Rhinos and is a member of the Calvert Cannons Select Lacrosse League. In May, both boys assisted the Sisters of Mercy homeless shelter in Southeast Washington, D.C. They helped prepare and serve food and pitched in with the cleaning up. The Sisters believe in a no waste policy and the boys observed the value of being careful with resources, even washing Ziploc bags and foil to be reused. When asked by mom, Lisa Huntley, if he ever gets nervous or worried when helping, Roman replied, “No way. Nothing would ever happen to me doing God’s work.� Alex enjoyed the soup kitchen experience, too, as he loves to cook. After his anticipated time in the NFL, he is looking forward to opening a restaurant. He
Roman and Alex Huntley.
plans to feature specialties such as the Boogie Burger and Roman Wrap. Roman’s desire to help others has spurred a service project to benefit children at Calvert Memorial Hospital. Roman’s brother, Alex, was hospitalized at age three with pneumonia. A cart was brought to his room offering video games, and Roman wondered when the book cart was coming. Years later, Roman organized a fundraiser to buy books to be donated to the hospital, so clean, sterile books will be available to children who are hospitalized there. Roman enlisted the help of his art teacher and the other members of the Honor Society, and on December 3, they will all be visiting the hospital to drop off the books. Now children will be able to read while they heal. As a sufferer of Sever’s Disease, brother Alex is no stranger to the hospital. “Sever’s is a micro trauma of the growth plates in the heel�, explains Mrs. Huntley. Alex’s doctors encouraged him to continue sports as the possibility exists that he will outgrow this condition. Alex says it hurts more when he has to walk through a mall than it does when he’s on the football field. Of all of the running around it must take to keep up with these brothers and their schedules, mom Lisa Huntley says that it serves as the glue that binds the family together. They all attend each other’s events as much as possible. Harold and Lisa Huntley met at Laurel High and are living a love story that now involves their remarkable children, Roman and Alex. About the Author: Jenny Kellner is a mother, teacher and Girl Scout leader. She lives in North Beach with her husband, Joe, and their four children, and serves on the town’s Historic Preservation Commission.
Students Get Career Advice Calvert Middle School students will have a unique opportunity to think about their futures during a special career summit on December 3 at the College of Southern Maryland’s Prince Frederick campus. Through a grant funded by Rotary District 7620, Career Puppy, Inc. of North Beach is collaborating with United Way partners SoMD CAN and the Calvert Collaborative for Children and Youth (CCCY) to deliver this program to 8th grade You CAN participants. That Saturday, students will complete a career assessment, discuss college life with a current college student, and learn how to maneuver through Career Puppy’s online career resource website. Parents will learn what classes their child needs to be successful in high school and beyond, and learn about the developmental assets their student should possess. Using the latest in technology, Career Puppy provides an exciting and interactive opportunity for students to explore their career interests and receive feedback – perhaps for the first time in their lives – about career paths that may be a good fit for them. The online resources of Career Puppy
include compelling career videos, extensive written information, access to professionals in many different careers and an opportunity to share their career interests with other students. For more info, see their web site at www.careerpuppy.com. Southern Maryland College Access Network (SoMD CAN) is a non-profit organization, founded in 2006, whose mission is to increase the college-going rate among the region’s high school students with specific focus on those students who are first generation college-bound. It runs weekly programs in all four public high schools and holds a variety of financial aid help workshops. Calvert Collaborative for Children and Youth (CCCY) stimulates community-based initiatives for children and families and advocates for after-school programs and recreation facilities. The “U CAN” program for 8th grade students is designed and managed by the Southern Maryland College Access Network (SoMD CAN) and funded by a United Way Community Impact Grant in partnership with the Calvert County Public School System.
Anne Arundel Seeks Volunteers Want to cheer up a lonely person by visiting with your pet or young child? Consider signing up for an orientation session for the Anne Arundel County’s Pets on Wheels, Mom and Me, and Life Enrichment programs. “The Life Enrichment program provides weekly visits to residents of nursing homes and assisted living sites as well as hospitals,” says Diane Dzambo, programs coordinator. Volunteers of all ages share time each week to enrich older persons’ lives. Pets on Wheels and Mom and Me are complementary visitation approaches with pets or small children that operate under the same program. “The motto is ‘Love Licks Loneliness,’ ” says Ms. Dzambo, who notes that the staff at these facilities also appreciates a visit from Fido or Fluffy. Participants can attend a one-hour orientation at 10:00 a.m. on Dec. 6 at the Anne Arundel County Government Building, 7320 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, and at 6:00 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Pascal Senior Activity Center, 125 Dorsey Road, Glen Burnie. Please do not bring your pet or young child to the training sessions. To register or for more information, call (410) 222-0738.
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011 19
CLASSIFIEDS We keep your customers HERE – we don’t try to send them to St. Mary’s County! Ads in the Chesapeake Current are very affordable and truly work to get your message out to all of Calvert County and Southern Anne Arundel County as well! We strive to keep your business here at home.
AND
Email ads@ChesapeakeCurrent.com or call Account Executive Clare O’Shea today at (301) 873-5885 for more info. As about our holiday and off-season specials!
Services
New Years' Resolution - New Resume! Resumes, cover letters, online career profiles and freelance writing services. Fast turnaround, reasonable rates, local references available. Free initial consultation. Email chesapeakeresumes@gmail.com.
Pets
Adopt Me!
Meet Chestnut Chestnut is a sweet girl who loves to snuggle and keep you company. She loves to ride in the car and go places. She is crate trained and has impeccable manners. She gets along with other dogs and cats too. She does great in the bathtub and loves her spa specials. She is a beautiful chestnut color; that's how we decided on her name. She is housebroken, very quiet and calm, and would do best in a home that is peaceful, and serene. For more information on Chestnut, please visit www.HumaneSocietyOfCalvertCounty.org or visit all the animals available in person at the Humane Society of Calvert County, 2210 Dalrymple Road in Sunderland. Phone: (410) 257-4908. Be sure to say you saw Chestnut in the Chesapeake Current!
Take me home!
Now Serving ALL of Calvert County - and Southern Anne Arundel County, too! Hair – Skin - Nails
Ads in the Chesapeake Current are full-color and very affordable.
2823 WEST CHESAPEAKE BEACH RD. DUNKIRK, MARYLAND 20754 301.812.0800 • 410.286.0800 www.julianshair.com
Email: ads@chesapeakecurrent.com or call (410) 231-0140 today!
Turnabout Café
Present this coupon for a free dessert with the purchase of each adult dinner entree. Beer & Wine 410-286-7387 7922 Southern Maryland Blvd (Rte 4) in Owings
www.turnaboutcafe.com
20 Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
For more information about Lucifer or any of the many other animals currently needing homes, contact Anne Arundel County Animal Control at (410) 222-8900. Be sure to say you saw Lucifer in the Chesapeake Current!
COUPON
COUPON
Now Serving Dinner Tues-Sat, 5:00–10:00 p.m.
His name may be is Lucifer, but he’s really an angel. He’s an incredibly beautiful Ragdoll Seal Point cat with an amazing coat, coloring and markings. He also has big blue eyes! He is a quiet, altered male, ten years old. If you want a lap cat, he’s the one who will love to cuddle with you through the holidays, and as the temperatures drop!
1/2 Off
Lunch or Dinner Entrée
Buy one entrée, Get one of equal or lesser value for ½ Price combined. Expires 12/31/11.
FREE
50%
Buy One combination dinner, Get the 2nd of equal or lesser value FREE!
Kid’s Meal
Valid Mon. & Tues. only. One coupon per person. 12/31/11.
Expires 12/31/11.
Combination Dinner
2520 Solomons Island Rd. • Huntingtown, MD 20639
OFF
One coupon per person.
410-414-9037
Chesapeake Current Music Calendar Have an upcoming music event you’d like listed here? Email details to MusicNotes@ChesapeakeCurrent.com.
Don’t Miss Those Little Dickins!
By Regan Cashman
What better way to get into the holiday spirit than to see a live, musical version of “A Christmas Carol” with your family this season? Well, I’ll tell you! Come see it performed by 80 of the most talented kids in our area! They're so good, you will find yourself forgetting they are actually kids ages two to 18!
need to be reminded of that. Think of what a great world it would be if we all did just that. How would you change YOUR life? What would YOU do differently if you knew that your life's current course would only lead to disaster or unhappiness? True, we do not have a time machine, or spirits to show us the error of our ways. But, we all have a heart. And, if you listen to it, I think you know that we aren't all just in this life for ourselves. We each are part of something bigger, regardless of anyone's beliefs. We all have to The cast of the Twin Beach Players musical, “A admit that every Christmas Carol” featuring 80 talented local children. action has a reward or a consequence. This isn't a story about a man. It's a story about every man, and woman. Now, before you question whether it’s And, to further support our theory worth your time, especially since you’ve “seen it that we all have something to before,” consider this: it’s NOT the same old contribute to society, the Twin show. In fact, I think there are new lessons to be Beach Players will be hosting a real learned in this version. And, I’ll put my money Toys For Tots drive at every where my mouth is because I adapted it. performance and will be offering a Past Twin Beach Players’ versions began free popcorn to each audience year after year with a narrator reading a story member who donates a toy. So, to children set in Victorian times. It was it's a win-win for our entire another world presented to the audience, community. one that could easily be separated from The lessons learned from their own as they walked out the door. our version of “A Christmas What’s different about the show this year Carol” aren’t preachy. I can that will hopefully grab you, is the fact that assure you that it’s all done in fun. this will be proven to be a timeless classic tale. Furthermore, I dare you to take in the For, despite how long ago Charles performance of these amazing kids and not Dickens wrote this story, it still has learn the lesson that was meant from the relevance today. How better to inception of the original tale. There is a depict that relevance to our audience character here, maybe even more than one, that than to take out that narrator and will remind you of you; the good, the bad and story children and instead have a the sometimes ugly. We all have those parts. It modern day family volunteering makes up who we are. And, that is why “A at a Toys For Tots drive along Christmas Carol” is one of the best Christmas with a person doing community stories ever told and will live on forever. service that could stand to learn a So, please consider joining us for one of lesson or two from Scrooge’s story? our performances. Reservations are highly Truth is, people haven’t recommended and must be made at least three changed that much throughout hours prior to show you are attending. You can the ages, in the ways we interact, make reservations at tbptickets@hotmail.com. the ways we support each other, the humanity that lives within About the Author: Regan Cashman is Vice each one of us if we dare to allow President of the Twin Beach Players theatre group. ourselves to care for someone other than ourselves. Sometimes we all
Sunday, December 4 US Navy Band "Cruisers" Holiday Concert: Come and enjoy a FREE Christmas concert at 3:00 p.m. at Mary Harrison Center in Owings. The Cruisers are the Navy's contemporary (rock) band and always give an afternoon of great music. The Mary Harrison Center is at 2950 Chaneyville Road (next to Northern HS). For info call (410) 257-1519 or go to www.navyband.navy.mil. Sons of the American Legion and Jay Armsworthy Present Bluegrass: featuring the Paul Adkins Band from Middletown, MD and the Port Tobacco Pickers from Charles County. The show begins at 2:00 p.m. with the doors opening at Noon. Tickets are $15.00 per person at the American Legion Post 238 in Hughesville, MD on the corner of Rt. 381 and Rt. 231. Food will be available for sale before the shows. For more information, tickets, and directions, go to www.americanlegionbluegrass.com or call (301) 737-3004. Pre-purchased tickets will be held at the door for pick up on the day of the show. Also, non-perishable food donations will be accepted for the Helping Hands Food Bank in Southern Maryland. Saturday, December 10 Tuba Guy at the annual "Art Walk" in Prince Frederick from 11:00-5:00. Shop for holiday gifts, get inspired by the holiday sounds of the one and only "Tuba Guy," enjoy holiday treats, and support our local businesses. CalvART will be open from 11:00-5:00 Monday through Sunday during the holiday season. Free. CalvArt is located in the Prince Frederick Shopping Center on the corner of Rt. 231 and Rt. 4. For more information call (410)535-9252 or visit calvartgallery.org. Holly Jolly Musical: Gracie’s Guys and Gals Dance Studio presents the Holly Jolly Musical, on Saturday, December 10 at 4:00 p.m. at the Mary Harrison Cultural Center in Owings, 2950 Chaneyville Road, in Owings. The Holly Jolly story is a musical about the kid who wants it to snow on Christmas, which Jack Frost can do, but only with Santa's permission. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Max and Beethoven, and Jingles the Horse delight the little ones in this cute musical. Tickets are $10 advance/$15 at door. Email: HollyJollyShow@aol.com or call (301) 475-5265 for more info.
“A Christmas Carol “ runs through December 11 at the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department, 8536 Bayside Rd. (Rt. 261), Chesapeake Beach. Show times are Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday afternoons at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 for general admission, $10 for seniors, students, military and TBP Members. Group rate of $8 per person for groups of ten or more attending the same show. There is also a special $5 working rehearsal show on Thursday, December 1.
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011 21
Out&About A Christmas Carol: The Twin Beach Players present an all-children musical featuring 80 local kids in a touching version of “A Christmas Carol” that you won’t want to miss! Through December 11 at the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department, 8356 Bayside Road, Chesapeake Beach. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults; $10 for TBP members, senior citizens and students. Reserve your tickets in advance by calling (410) 474-4214 or TBPtickets@hotmail.com. Gifts of a Lifetime: Through January 1, the CalvART Gallery presents its annual show where you can shop for unique one-of-a-kind affordable gifts created by 21 outstanding local artists. A holiday reception will be held on Dec. 3 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Also join us during the annual "Art Walk" in Prince Frederick on Dec. 10 from 11:00-5:00. Shop for holiday gifts, get inspired by the holiday sounds of the one and only "Tuba Guy," enjoy holiday treats, and support our local businesses. CalvART will be open from 11:00-5:00 Monday through Sunday during the holiday season. All events are free. In the Prince Frederick Shopping Center on the corner of Rt. 231 and Rt. 4.
Friday, December 2 Chesapeake Community Chorus: concert at 7:00 p.m. to benefit Calvert Hospice at the Elks Lodge, 1015 Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick. Free, but a goodwill offering is accepted. The group to date has raised more than $50,000 for local charities to date. Contact director Larry Brown of Owings at (301) 855-7477 for more info.
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Dinner: Come for an informal dinner from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. hosted by the American Legion 206 Auxiliary, in the lower-level dining room on Route 260 in Chesapeake Beach. The cost is $10, including salad and beverage.
Saturday, December 3 An Old-Fashioned Christmas Holiday Bazaar: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Faith Assembly of God “Impact Center,” 250 West Bay Front Road, Lothian, MD 20711. Santa arrives at 2:00 p.m. Enjoy a special day filled with Christmas fun! An old-fashioned general store filled with gifts, baked goods, gift baskets, Christmas decorations and antiques. Fresh greenery, wreaths, floral arrangements, door prizes, candies, home-made soup, sandwiches and desserts, crafters and vendors. Designs for the Holidays: The Chesapeake Garden Club presents a design program from 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. by Vickie Trego, Dorrie McDonald and Patti AtLee to learn about creative holiday decorating. Advance tickets are $12 and $15 at the door. At the All Saints Church Hall in Sunderland, at the intersection of Routes 4 and 2. You can also purchase fresh greens, swags and centerpieces. Call (410) 535-5714 for more information. Blood Drive: Give the gift of life at the American Legion Stallings-Williams Post 206 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Post on Route 260 in Chesapeake Beach in the upper level parking lot. Call for an appointment or more information at (443) 964-5461.
Serving Southern Anne Arundel, Northern Calvert and Surrounding Areas
22 Thursday, December 1, 2011 Chesapeake Current
Christmas Parade and Santa on the Beach: Saturday, December 3, rain or shine along the boardwalk in North Beach. The Parade is sponsored by the BBG and is held in conjunction with "Santa on the Beach" which is sponsored by the North Beach House and Garden Club. The parade begins at 12:00 noon at 1st and Bay and goes to 7th and Bay. The reviewing stand is at 5th and Bay where Emcee George Owings will announce the entries as they parade by. The theme this year is "The 12 Days of Christmas" and many of the entries plan to decorate around that. There will be bands, floats, antique cars, bicycles & tricycles, owners with their pets, businesses, organizations, kids, adults, elected officials, Mrs. Claus and of course Santa will ride in the parade in a fire truck as he always does. The parade lasts about an hour. Parade participants should contact Pat Carpenter at (703) 980-2143 for more information and plan to arrive at 11:00 a.m. Christmas House Tour: See inside homes beautifully decorated for the holidays during the second Republican Women Leaders of Calvert’s Christmas House Tour. Proceeds fund community projects including college scholarships. Saturday, December 3 from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Refreshments will be offered at each home on the tour. Tickets are $25 each. To buy tickets and get directions and more info, contact Carolyn Rice, Chair of the RWLC Tour, at (410) 610-0257 or email: rice.carolyn6@gmail.com; Catherine Grasso, at (301) 855-8728 or email: nonitalian1@hotmail.com.
Sunday, December 4 Holiday Open House: At the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Santa Claus is coming! Your family is invited to join the festivities with an afternoon of fun. Children's Tree Trimming Party: at the Captain Avery Museum, 1418 E.W. Shady Side Road, on Sunday, December 4, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission is free, refreshments will be served, and crafts will be created. The program will give children the opportunity to celebrate the holidays in the fashion of 1860’s.
Saturday, December 10 Holiday Craft Fair: Northern Music Booster’s Annual event will be held at Northern High School, 2950 Chaneyville Road, Owings, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Fair includes a variety of unique crafts and gift items for the entire family. Over 50 vendors. Barn wood picture frames, hand-dipped candles, handmade cards/boxes, jewelry, NFL gift items, totes, purses, gift baskets and lunch bags. Admission: $2.00 per adult (for two door prize raffle tickets), children FREE. Proceeds benefit the Northern High School instrumental music program. Art Walk Prince Frederick: 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. Participating businesses will be offering donated art and coupons and gifts for a $1 a ticket raffle drawing at each business. The funds from the raffle will be going to Safe Harbor. Artwalk goers will be able to visit each business on the map and buy as many raffle tickets as they wish, then will put these in specially wrapped "raffle" gift boxes located next to the items of their choice. There will be live music, art receptions, and artists on hand with their work, and open houses at all participating businesses. To find out more about who's participating this year, starting at the end of this week, check out our website at http://www.artwalkprincefrederick.com. Country Dance: For a fun time, come to the Country Dance at the American Legion 206. If you can't dance, teachers will be available to give instruction. One-hour lessons start at 7:00 p.m. followed by dancing from 8:00 p.m. until midnight. The modest price of $15.00 per person includes soft drinks or draft beer and light munchies. Hosted by the American Legion 206 in the upper-level Ballroom in Chesapeake Beach on Route 260.
Want to see your non-profit group’s event in the Chesapeake Current? Email complete details along with contact information at least three weeks in advance to editor@ChesapeakeCurrent.com.
Chesapeake Current
Thursday, December 1, 2011 23
Holiday Open House
Saturday, December 3, 2011 10am to 5pm Featuring artist
Paul McGehee
And Art Students From
Cardinal Hickey Academy Custom Picture Framing
Dunkirk Market Place (Safeway Shopping Center)
10366 Southern Maryland Blvd. Dunkirk, Maryland 20754 301.855.4515 medartgalleries.com 410.257.6616