Thursday, November 27, 2008 • St. Mary’s County

Established 2006 • Volume 3 • Issue 46

Thursday, November 27, 2008 • St. Mary’s County

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Retailers Hopeful For Black Friday Despite Uncertain Economic Outlook

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer The biggest shopping day of the year, Black Friday, is here and retailers are cautiously optimistic that shoppers will let go of their hard earned money in what have become tough, and increasingly tougher economic times.

At the Best Buy store in California, one of the most popular in the county for holiday electronic shopping, the store manager said Black Friday should be good for her store but their might not be as great a volume of sales this year.

“We expect Black Friday to be successful… customers are going to be looking for those deals,” said Paula Slavings.

Slavings intuition was mirrored by Bob Schaller, head of the county’s Department of Economic and Community Development.

“The sense I get is that retailers and consumers are looking forward to Black Friday but they’re [consumers] looking for bargains, but they won’t be spending as much as usual.

“They’re really looking for those bargains.”

See Black Friday page A-

Photo by Guy Leonard

Detectives investigate the crime scene in Dameron where a two people were injured and one killed as a result of shooting that detectives say may have been the result of a domestic dispute.

One Dead, Two Injured In Dameron Shooting

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Local detectives say that a man who had been under court orders to stay away from his estranged girlfriend broke into her Dameron home Monday morning, attacked and killed another man there and injured her as well in the assault.

Photo by Guy Leonard

Store like Best Buy in California are advertising sales in hopes of brining in customers for Black Friday.

Man Accused Of Murder Wants Trial Away From St. Mary’s

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer The attorney for Nicholas T. Potts III, the man accused of killing another volunteer firefighter at the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department more than two years ago, has petitioned the court for a change of venue for his client’s trial.

Potts’ case is set to go to court in January after two years of being delayed, mostly for psychological evaluations to determine whether he is competent to stand trial.

Potts was found competent to stand trial for the alleged murder of James Augustus Choporis, Jr. the first week in June in St. Mary’s County Circuit Court.

The victim was the defendant’s moth-

Op.-Ed ...........Page A - 4 Obituaries.......Page A - 8 Sports...............Page B - 1 Police ...............Page B - 7 Classifieds.......Page B - 9

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See Shooting page A-

Convicted Murderer, Domestic Violence Suspect Released On Personal Recognizance

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Records from St. Mary’s County District Court show that a man convicted of first-degree murder in 1992 and suspected of assaulting his wife twice er’s fiancé.

“There’s been a lot of publicity in this this past spring was released on his own personal case and we’re just trying to ensure he gets a fair trial,” said James Otte, attorney for the defense.

Otte made his motion Nov. 17, and it was scheduled to be heard before Circuit Court Judge C. Clarke Raley Nov. 21 but Andrea Shiell was rescheduled.

Medical personnel evaluating Potts Staff Writer at the state level rejected his defense that

County officials have said recently he was insane at the time of his alleged that the number of domestic disputes in St. Mary’s crime.

County has increased by as much as 30 percent Eight days have been set aside for tryover the last few months in the wake of the ecoing the two-year-old murder case accordnomic downturn. ing to court documents.

“We have seen an increase over The incident occurred June 6, 2006 at what was then the Bay District firehouse the last few months in hotline calls and walk-ins,” said Valerie Colvin, Community Development See Trial page A-

Inside

The homicide is the second so far this year in the county.

Law officers allege that Jeremiah J. Watson, 31, used a shovel to break into the home of Tina L. Dean on Premier Lane at about 4a.m. and used the tool to attack Christopher M. Patty, 34, of Charles County.

recognizance after each alleged incident by a District Court commissioner.

The suspect, Darren Reginald Stovall, 38, of no fixed address, now has a bench warrant issued for his arrest, says the prosecutor on the case.

See Criminal page A-

Domestic Disputes Rise as Economy Drops Manager for Walden Sierra, adding that the source of most of these disputes, as well as domestic violence incidents, has been financial stress.

Colvin said that the crisis hotline has been receiving as many as 20 calls per month from people inquiring about the lethality assessment program, which is meant to help victims determine whether or not they are in danger from their partner. “A lot of it has to do with the financial stress of the holiday season,” she said, “but it’s really See Disputes page A-

Something To Be Thankful For Increased Need Over Holidays Met with Increased Support Andrea Shiell Staff Writer On Monday morning a chill bit the air inside a small garage in Hughesville, where several people were picking through pallets and bins of foodstuffs, Photo by Andrea Shiell diving into the walk-in freezer and emerging with Representatives from food pantries across Southern Maryland load up on foodstuffs for the week.

Many gave away their Thanksgiving baskets last week, as the need for grocery assistance over the See Food Banks page A-10 holidays has increased.

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The County Times

Thursday, November 27, 2008

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Thursday, November 27, 2008

The County Times

Section A -

Bay District Suspends, Expels Some Firefighters

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer A vote of the membership of the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department Nov. 17 has resulted in the suspension of four firefighters and the expulsion of an equal number from the ranks of the department for violations of its rules.

Doug Medley, public information officer for companies 3 and 9, said the vote came after the department’s leadership brought a dozen firefighters up on charges of misconduct following a brawl that involved alcohol consumption on the grounds of the Lexington Park station last month.

Four firefighters out of the original 12 were exonerated by vote of the membership last week, Medley said.

Other violations that resulted in suspensions or expulsions from the department included allowing non-members into restricted areas of the firehouse, Medley said.

“We try to be fairly strict on that policy,” Medley told The County Times. “Some of

the ones who were dropped were repeat offenders.”

The consumption of alcohol on the premises of Co. 3, which helped precipitate the fight between a firefighter and a member of the community at what started out as a barbeque, is strictly forbidden, Medley said.

Members, by their Nov. 17 vote, drove home the point that drinking on the job would not be tolerated.

“They start thinking they’re supermen, they have a few drinks and they get on an apparatus,” Medley said.

“We can’t allow that.”

Medley said one firefighter in particular, who was allegedly responsible for the assault, was one of the members expelled.

The evidence against that firefighter was irrefutable, Medley said.

“All this was on video,” Medley said. “There was no question who was involved.”

The expulsion of firefighters Medley said were repeat offenders has actually had the effect of improving morale.

“A lot of the members

Watermen Earn Income Helping To Save The Oyster Population

By Elizabeth M. Piazza Capital News Service From the time he was a baby in diapers picking clams on his father’s boat Puddin, 41year-old J.R. Gross has worked on the water.

“When I first started - 10, 11, 12-years-old, that was pretty much the boom of it,” Gross said. “We had more to do, oysterin’ and clammin’ - the market was better and there was a lot more of us.”

Gross refuses to quit what he calls a way of life, even though a dwindling economy and a struggling blue crab fishery are threatening the livelihood of watermen throughout Maryland and Virginia.

But for now, Gross is among a number of watermen hired as part of Gov. Martin O’Malley’s economic mitigation work project, which uses displaced watermen to help restore the bay.

Watermen have been hired by the Department of Natural Resources to clean off the Tolley Point and Sharps Point oyster bar sanctuaries in the Severn River, the Broadneck reserve oyster bar in the Patuxent River and the Evans bar in Tangier Sound. The project began Nov. 17 and runs through Nov. 21.

They are cleaning bars that have been covered by silt and sediment and preparing them for baby oysters, called spat, to be planted in the spring.

The hope is that the baby oysters will survive and reproduce while cleaning up the water. Oysters are crucial to the bay’s health because they act as a filter and provide a habitat for other species.

The work mitigation project is not all about oysters. Many watermen will also be working on the land in trail and road maintenance along with other forest management practices in state parks and state forests.

“Anyone who’s [oystering] now has got to love it,” said 63-year-old Calvin “Pee-Wee” Matthews, who owns the Miss Suzy. Matthews has been a waterman for 40 years and the two have worked alongside each other since Gross started.

Just as the number of watermen have dwindled statewide, so too have the watermen in Gross’s family. When he started, he worked with two uncles and at least 15 cousins.

Today, he is the last.

Both Gross and Matthews hope the program will help revi-

talize the dying oyster industry.

We’re killing two birds with one stone, said Larry Simms, president of the Maryland Watermen’s Association.

We’re giving watermen work to supplement their income lost from the crabbing regulations and helping DNR [The Department of Natural Resources] to clean up the bay.

Simms was quick to point out that this is not a handout program and that watermen do not want a handout. The hope is they will reap the long-term benefits of this program.

“It’s a good program, it really is,” said Gross, who stopped harvesting his own oysters to help out even though it means he will be making half of what he would if he were working for himself. “It’s not about the money for us, it’s about trying to get the bay back to where it needs to be.”

Over the years, as the industry has shrunk, Gross dabbled in pile driving and boat carpentry, but he always gravitated back to the water.

When he started out, most of his money was made from clamming.

“Then the clams went and they went completely,” he said.

“That put more pressure on the oysters.” As the oyster population began to decline, more pressure was put on the crabs as watermen turned to crabbing.

Working together, Gross and Matthews have witnessed their livelihood disappear.

They’ve seen good productive bars silt over and have witnessed declining seafood sales.

Gross, who also owns JVE Seafood, has watched the 20-25 bushels that he would catch and sell each week dwindle to seven or eight.

Even during tough times, Gross and Matthews refuse to stop oystering. A friendly rivalry has developed over the years and each day the two would compete to see how many bushels they could catch or how fast they could catch their quota.

Their story is not unique, as the struggle to save the oyster has become a vicious cycle.

As oysters have been harvested, there have been fewer of them to clean the water and the increasingly polluted water has made it difficult for oysters and other species to survive.

“I’ll be oysterin’ until the last oysters are caught - I’ll drop dead on that boat,” said Gross.

“You can’t get away from it - it’s part of you.”

were intimidated by some of these guys, by them trying to look tough,” Medley said.

“They broke the limit and they paid the consequences.

“We’ve taken care of business.”

Bay District Volunteer Fire Department is the busiest in the county, with first due responsibility for Great Mills, Lexington Park and California.

They are 100 percent volunteer and have two stations located in Great Mills and Lexington Park.

One firefighter, who wished to remain anonymous, agreed that things at Bay District had improved since the leadership disci-

plined the alleged offenders.

“They got in trouble, they left and things started to clean up over there,” the firefighter said. “I think it’s about time they Photo by Guy Leonard got suspended.” The leadership at Bay District Volunteer Fire Department have just suspended or expelled One fire- eight members for violations of department policy. fighter remains the license problem when he firehouse. on suspension, “We just want to move Medley said, for driving a became aware of it, Medley on,” Medley said of trying said. fire department apparatus His suspension will con- to repair the damage the inwith a suspended license, though the firefighter appar- tinue however, Medley said, cidents caused. “We don’t ently did not know that his because he had also been want to jeopardize our good found guilty of allowing un- name in the community.” license was suspended.

The firefighter imme- authorized visitors into the diately attempted to correct upstairs lounge area of the

The County Times

Section A -

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Editorial & Opinion Much To Be Thankful For; Health Share Is One This is the time of year that typically Americans begin a 6-week celebration of the past year and the many blessings we enjoy living in this great country. The Thanksgiving Holiday, a national day of giving thanks marks the beginning of what has become the Christmas Holiday Season followed by the celebration of the beginning of a new year.

While the most famous Thanksgiving celebration took place in 1621 at Plymouth Colony, the national holiday did not officially begin for more than 200 years later.

In the 19th century Sara Josepha Hale, Americas first female magazine editor and the author of the famous nursery rhyme “Mary Had A Little Lamb” believed we needed a national

holiday for all Americans to collectively give thanks.

In 1863 with our Nation divided by Civil War, Hale petitioned President Abraham Lincoln to establish a National Day of giving thanks. Lincoln declared the last Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day, a national holiday.

In 1939, with our nation facing a troubled economy, President Franklin Roosevelt decided to extend the traditional Christmas Shopping Season by moving the Thanksgiving Holiday up one week to the third Thursday in November. After that year some states continued to celebrate Thanksgiving Day on the third Thursday (known as “Franksgiving”) while other states continued to follow Lin-

coln’s proclamation, the last Thursday.

It wasn’t until 1941 that Congress officially declared the 4th Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day, a day now filled with feasting, football, and floats.

These are once again difficult economic times, yet no one is suggesting changing Thanksgiving Day again. To most however, it may seem as though there is less this year to be thankful for. Despite the tough times our nation seems to be facing, we must still recognize that Americans have as much to be thankful for as any nation in the world.

For us there is no economic or political misery that could displace our gratefulness to the men and women

To The Editor:

Chesapeake Watershed Forum Wants To Hear From You One of my favorite aspects of life in southern Maryland is the sense of pride in the area’s rich historical and natural assets. I am fortunate to be able to work for a project that protects the St. Mary’s River watershed by utilizing local stakeholder knowledge. I work for the St. Mary’s River Watershed Restoration Action Strategy (WRAS). The WRAS has been in steady progress, solidifying a plan to keep our river clean, since May 2008. The WRAS project aims to protect and restore habitat and water quality in the St. Mary’s River watershed by utilizing technical reports and local community input. As of October, we have successfully completed the stream technical reports; they are available online at http://www. stmarysriver.org/. We are now transitioning into our public outreach phase. This means we need to hear from you about your experiences with the St. Mary’s River. The Watershed Association has launched an online forum to facilitate this ongoing discussion. Sign up today

for the Chesapeake Watershed Forum and have access to the St. Mary’s River group’s forum as well as thirty other groups. Go to http://www. chesapeakenetwork.org/welcome.htm and click the link at the top right “Register For This Network.” You can choose whether to receive discussion entries via email or web browser— or choose to receive periodic summaries. And you can choose to terminate your registration at any time. Add “St. Mary’s River” to your groups. Please use this tool to share with us your experiences with the river. Whether it is history of land in the watershed that you would like documented, public policy affecting the river that you would like to see addressed, or an area you would like to see protected, your input is vital. We Look Forward to Hearing From You! Megan Hession WRAS Public Process Intern St. Mary’s City, Md

who have served and continue to serve this nation in our military. When it comes to the brave service of our young men and women, we must always be a grateful nation.

Even during these difficult times it is easy to look around and find much else to be grateful for. There are hundreds, even thousands of reasons right here in St. Mary’s County for all of us to be grateful. During this season of giving thanks and giving help, there are examples in nearly every community organization, every church, and even in our homes and businesses of people helping others who are less fortunate and need a helping hand. The County Times invites the community to express their gratefulness

to the many organizations that serve our community by writing a thank you note to be published during this holiday season. You can e-mail your notes to: thankyou@countytimes.net or mail to P.O. Box 250, Hollywood, Md. 20636.

We would like to begin with a note saying “thank you” to Health Share of St. Mary’s. Access to basic health care as well as prescription drugs would be unobtainable for many in our community were it not for the non-profit efforts of Health Share.

Operated by a volunteer Board of Directors, this organization leverages resources from local Physicians, St. Mary’s Hospital, St. Mary’s Health Department, and St. Mary’s Department of

Social Services to serve those who cannot afford the full cost of medical services, but do not qualify for Medical Assistance. Through the work of many volunteers and the generosity of our community, this organization provides assistance to approximately 1,300 clients each month.

Health Share depends on donations and fundraisers to meet the escalating cost of health care. Coming up this December is the annual Holiday Home Tour, which has become a highlight of the holiday season here in St. Mary’s County. For more information on the upcoming tour or for other ways you can assist this great organization call 240- 895-7169.

From all of us here at the County Times, we would like to say “thank you” to Health Share of St. Mary’s for making our community better.

County Government Lives Above It’s Own Laws Why should any citizen have to compete with the Government? As a previous business owner of 15 years I had signs taken down

by State Highway that were supposedly in the state right of way. I had to prove that the land in questioned was owned by myself and the signs were returned.

Since selling my business approximately 2.5 years ago, I decided to get into Real Estate. Real Estate has become a very tough business as the market has really taken a downward turn. Trying to improve my Real Estate business, I have placed directional signs on major roads pointing to my properties for sale or rent. Now these signs are being pulled down by State and County Highway as they are illegal. Why are these signs illegal when they are helping homeowners and Real Estate Agents in troubled times? Home Businesses are allowed off site directional’s as are “for sale by owners”.

What makes this sign issue even worse? The County must be above the laws that they make. Driving home the other day I noticed a big lighted sign like the ones used

for lane closures and detours during road construction. The sign was just off Rt. 234 as you turn onto Aviation Yacht Club Road announcing “Now Open, Wicomico Golf Course, Riverview Restaurant”. This is a government / county owned facility. Why are they allowed the use of signage? It seems as the government does not care about all the folks hit by the mortgage crisis and allow them to erect a Real Estate sign to help them sell their home and avoid a possible foreclosure or the family just trying to move on. And what about all the Restaurants that are facing hard times? Wouldn’t they want to advertise with a big, illuminated flashing sign? I think its time the government go back to providing services that the public sector does not, make laws that are equal and fair for all businesses which would allow Real Estate agents to erect directional signage, and PRACTICE WHAT THEY PREACH.

Jimmy Hayden Leonardtown, MD

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On Thursday November 20, 2008 your paper printed an article slandering my credibility in an incident my husband, myself and another couple witnessed at the Drift Inn on October 4, 2008. After reading this article I feel I have been victimized by speaking out for children’s rights. I have learned in the past 4 years working as a Special Education Paraeducator at Margaret Brent Middle School that children aren’t always heard and they need someone to advocate for them. I was simply telling the truth to what I had witnessed, and my credibility is slandered all over the county papers.

I don’t understand why Joanne Wood, the attorney for the Alcohol & Liquor Board did not ask for the other witnesses who were with me the evening in question to come forward.

Why wasn’t this investigated before going in front of the Alcohol & Liquor Board? Maybe because the Chairman is related to the defendants, or maybe that “Good Old Boy Law” is

still in effect in St. Mary’s County. This could be why more citizens don’t come forward with information fearing they will be victimized like I have been.

I am upset that your article failed to mention that Gerald Bowles threatened me with the following statement, “ This had better not get back to the school where my daughter attends or someone will pay.” What did he actually mean by this? With this statement I am in fear everyday when I pull into the school parking lot and when I leave. I should not have to live in fear now, because I made a report that an under aged child was serving alcohol. Clearly I have been a victim of The County Times, St. Mary’s Today, The Alcohol & Liquor Board and the Drift Inn for slandering my credibility.

Sincerely, Melissa Flowers Mechanicsville, MD

Editors Note: The County Times in our November 20th 2008 article reported the action taken by the St. Mary’s County Alcoholic Beverage Board. The County Times continues to research the information surrounding this matter.

Letters to the Editor If you wish to send a letter to the editor, please include your name, address and phone number for confirmation purposes. We will only publish your name and city of residence. We can withhold your name by request if circumstances merit it. We must receive all letters by Monday morning for publication in the next issue. Any letter received later than Monday will be held for the following issue.

James Manning McKay - Publisher Tobie Pulliam - Office Manager............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.net Andrea Shiell - Community Correspondent.......andreashiell@countytimes.net Chris Stevens - Sports Correspondent............... ........chrisstevens@countytimes.net Guy Leonard - Government Correspondent..............guyleonard@countytimes.net Preston Pratt- Sales Representative...........................prestonpratt@countytimes.net Matt Suite- Sales Representative......................................mattsuite@countytimes.net

The County Times

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Section A -

Martirano Says State of School System is Strong Annual Address Highlights Achievements and Needed Improvements Andrea Shiell Staff Writer Addressing a large crown at the J.T. Daugherty Center Nov. 19 during his annual “State of the School System” speech, School Superintendent Michael Martirano said the state of St. Mary’s Schools was healthy overall, but also acknowledged that serious budgetary problems face the schools in the near future.

“Ladies and gentlemen, let me state for the record that the State of the St. Mary’s County Public School System is strong and vibrant,” he said, citing gains made in the last year including 100 percent of SMCPS schools achieving Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and scoring above state averages on High School Assessments (HSAs). “Today I am here to proclaim that we are a high performing school system and that we should be very proud of that.”

Continuing with the theme of academic gains, Martirano brought up Maryland State Assessment (MSA) data, citing “our four-year trend…in the assessed grades of 3-8, our averages are higher than the overall State of Maryland averages and we have made remarkable

Dropout rates were another item list of needed improvements for the county.

“Our dropout rate is 2.8 percent and our graduation rate is 86.2 percent,” Martirano said, adding that new intervention programs being put in place at the ninth grade level are expected to help those numbers improve.

“Through our Tech Connect program at the Forrest Center, and through the Fairlead Academy, we are casting a larger safely net in an attempt to ensure that our students stay in school and graduate.”

School Board member Mary Washington later commented on the dropout rate, saying “it’s actually higher at Great Mills…that 2.8 percent is a county-wide average…we need to do better.”

Martirano also noted that the number of economically disadvantaged students in the county had risen in the last year to 26 percent.

“With our challenging economic times, we are seeing a rise in this number. This is a five percent increase over a one-year period,” he said.

When asked later how the economic downturn might affect the school system’s budget,

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Photo by Andrea Shiell

Superintendent Michael Martirano and newly elected Board of Education member Marilyn Crosby at the State of the School System luncheon.

gains in seventh and eighth grade math.” He then invoked “the 21.3 point growth and 24.8 point growth in the overall seventh and eighth grade area.

“I’m expecting similar gains next year,” he added.

Martirano said there were several shortcomings that SMCPS would need to address, including teacher salaries and benefits.

“We are beginning to lose some ground… our starting teacher salary is $43,240…we lag behind Charles and Calvert,” He said. “Additionally, our administrative salaries are the lowest of the three Southern Maryland counties.

We must do better in future years.”

Martirano was reluctant to discuss numbers.

“I won’t know for a while what we’re working with,” he said, adding that 2010 budget projections would be offered to the Board of County Commissioners in December, followed by work sessions and public forums starting in January.

The mood of the day was optimistic though as Martirano praised the school system’s recent gains.

“Nationally, there is so much chatter about all that is wrong with public education. However in St. Mary’s County, the converse is our reality…and we must keep it that way,” he said.

“Our best days are yet to come.”

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Celebrating a Delayed Rite of Passage

.. . s r e m o t s u he C

Students Awarded GED Diplomas Andrea Shiell Staff Writer The auditorium at Leonardtown High School was aglow the night of Nov. 20 for the 27th annual GED Graduation Recognition Ceremony, hosted by the St. Mary’s County Public Schools Adult Education Program.

Compared to the virtual sea of caps and gowns, the marathon stretches of Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance,” and the endless lists of honorees that typify the springtime festivities for countless seniors, last Thursday’s affair seemed far more intimate and relaxed. Despite this veneer, though, the mood of those in attendance would rival that of any Harvard graduate’s parent, as they reveled in the significance of the event.

“This year 54 people in St. Mary’s County earned their GED by passing the state test,” said Rikke Elkins, an educational specialist with the Department of Social Services, who was also there to celebrate her daughter’s graduation.

As is typical at all graduation ceremonies, attending dignitaries offered their own bits of advice to the graduates.

“Take the time to think about your future,” said Board of Education member William Mattingly. “I would love to see you all continue your education…don’t stop here.”

County Commissioner President Francis Jack Russell told the graduates to “remember three things…always continue to believe in yourself…continue to create meaningful relationships…and it behooves you to find a job you have passion for…apply yourself, keep looking, and you will achieve this goal,” he said.

The GED test, also known as the General Educational Development test, the General Education Diploma, or referred to jok-

ingly as the “Good Enough Diploma,” was originally developed after World War II to help veterans return to civilian life. It is only administered to people who have not received their high school diploma, whether due to class failures, expulsions, or personal problems. Since the inception of the GED program, more than 15 million Americans have received a GED credential. One in seven Americans with high school credentials have earned a GED, as well as one in twenty college students.

Though this year saw 54 county residents pass the test and receive their high school credentials, only 20 of the graduates were in attendance, as most had other commitments to attend to. Among those in attendance was Jessica Elkins, who addressed the crowd with her friend Caitlin Standish, with whom she had taken the test.

She began by telling the assembly that she would not tell them what brought her there that night, or to the GED program specifically, “because you probably don’t care about my problems…besides the problems aren’t what’s interesting, it’s the solutions,” she said, smiling. She entreated all to be proud of the fact that, “we have officially removed ourselves from the ranks of dropouts.”

In the midst of all the speakers, the music and turning of the tassels, Superintendent Michael Martirano quoted one of the students who had filled out a post-class questionnaire.

“It has opened up many doors to many choices, and now I have a choice,” Martirano read.

The sentiment was shared by all 20 graduates in attendance, as they nodded, acknowledging the opportunities that now lay before them.

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The County Times

Section A -

Talking Real Estate

Shooting Continued from page A-

Patrick Dugan

By: Patrick Dugan “A Once in a lifetime opportunity for investors” That is what Warren Buffet, yes that Warren Buffet, has called this financial crisis that our country finds itself in.

Mr. Buffet goes on to explain that if an individual, or a group of individuals, takes the initiative to start buying now, they will reap rewards much greater than normal.

We are seeing prices getting lower in residential homes, condominiums, townhouse and even commercial property. So how does an investor know when it is time to buy? Well, if you are nervous about investing you could decide to wait until prices go up, then you would know that the bottom of the market has hit. Of course by waiting until the prices increase, you have already lost some off your profit you would make by buying now.

If you are ready to make more money than is normal in real estate, the time to buy is here.

Never have we seen such a dramatic drop in prices over such a short amount of time. We know that the prices of real estate will not shoot through the roof as they did in the past few years. However, with proper knowledge, you can find great values right now, rent them out and sell them or use them as retirement income in the future.

In past articles I have talked about buying a home for each child you have, and then selling it as their college years approach. Yet, if you can also buy extra homes, one, two or even more, you will be in a position that the rental income will be extra income for you at retirement.

Imagine being one of the lucky few who have 10 or 20 rental units. When they started out, they probably thought they would get one rental, maybe two and then things took off. Now, they can enjoy the lifestyle that having numerous rentals can bring you.

You can also use the rentals in the future to upgrade your own home. Perhaps you can afford a rental now, in 10 years after the tenants have been paying your mortgage, maybe you could sell it and move into that waterfront home you dream of.

Please do not think that only investors should be buying now. If investors are buying, and they are, that is the time you want to buy your own home as well. There are great opportunities to get into new homes, upgrade your current living situation, or just get into your FIRST HOME! If you work for St. Mary’s County, maybe the Sherriff’s department, or the election Board, you are also eligible for down payment assistance from the County and the State.

There are great opportunities out there now, do not sit back three years from now and say,” I wish I know what I know now” , you do know it, so go buy a house, an apartment, an apartment building…

As always, you can reach me at PatrickDugan@mris.com with questions or comments on this or any other article.

Criminal Continued from page A- “His bond was revoked, we’re looking for him,” said Assistant State’s Attorney Daniel J. White. “These commissioners should be more careful before they release these violent criminals in the middle of the night.”

White told The County Times that the severity of the charges against Stovall, his prior conviction for a murder in Prince George’s County, and lack of a permanent address meant he should not have been released.

Charging documents from one of the alleged incident against Stovall showed his address as being in Mechanicsville, the other set of charging documents show no address, only that he lived “near B.K. Miller’s Store” in Clinton.

B.K Miller’s store is a wellknown liquor and grocery store in

Disputes

As Watson pressed his alleged attack against Patty, the estranged girlfriend Tina L. Dean retrieved a .22 caliber handgun and shot Watson, police reports state, before he turned his attack on her and wrested control of the gun away from Dean.

Watson is alleged to have shot Patty and then turned the gun on Dean in a failed attempt to shoot her as well; police state that the weapon may have malfunctioned.

Watson fled the scene, police allege, and was later found by law officers near the home lying down suffering from his injuries.

Watson was flown by Maryland State Police helicopter to the trauma unit at Prince George’s Hospital Center in Cheverly while Dean was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital Center for treatment and was later released.

Patty was also transported there for treatment of his wounds but died there.

Detectives with the St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigations state that charges are pending against Watson.

Watson, of Leonardtown, had been arrested by a St. Mary’s sheriff’s deputy just days before the shooting for allegedly violating a protective order ordering him to stay away from Dean with whom he had three children, police reports state.

Watson was arrested Nov. 20 but was released from incarceration the following day, on-line court records show.

In that incident Watson was alleged to

have called Dean’s home, one by himself and two more times by way of Watson’s mother, charging documents stated.

The defendant is also alleged to have called a fourth time that day via his personal cell phone, court papers stated.

The defendant is alleged to have told witness to the case to tell Dean “it’s just a piece of paper, I can get to her if I want to get her.”

In charging documents, Watson said that he had called Dean in an effort to get clothing sizes for his children. Watson said that Dean had called him at least twice and he returned her call and spoke with his son.

Watson went on to state, court papers revealed, that his mother had called Dean to get the clothing sizes when Dean refused to give them to him.

Watson stated in charging documents that he did not realize calling Dean was a violation of the protective order and agreed to turn himself in for the violation to the arresting deputy.

Court records also reveal that Dean had attempted to get protective orders against Watson in the past dating back to 2000 but had not been successful in at least one case. In 2004 she was granted a temporary protective order but was denied a final protective order.

Watson also pleaded guilty to a fourth-degree burglary charge in May that earned him a three-year sentence that was suspended to just nine months of incarceration.

The original offense occurred in October of 2007 and involved a breakin charge at Nicolet Park, county owned property, in Lexington Park.

the same as last year for holiday shopping.

“It’s business as usual,” Pope told The County Times. “We’re expecting a strong season.

“They’re still filling up carts and buying stuff.”

At Nanbo’s, a musical instrument shop in Wildewood Shopping Center, store manager Mason Sebastien said Black Friday was more of a non-event for a small retail operation.

“It doesn’t do anything to get us in the black,” Sebastien said. “It’s just another day for us.”

But Sebastien said that smaller retailers were concerned about their Black Friday prospects more so than the larger big box outfits.

“They realize people are cautious, that the economy is not good,” Sebastien said.

Over at Bay Books in the same shopping center, Sue Sloan, a product buyer for the store, said business has been so slow lately they were hoping that some Black Friday cash might come their way.

“It used to be how everybody moaned and groaned about how busy Black Friday was,” Sloan said. “Now we’re all watching to see if anyone’s going to buy anything.”

For the business person, Sebastien said, retail in general was still a risky proposition at best, Black Friday or no Black Friday.

“You have a couple of really big days of sales and then the bottom falls out the rest of the week,” Sebastien said.

Black Friday Continued from page A- In past years, Slavings said, customers would come in on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving Day, and buy more medium sized, medium priced gifts that boosted the store’s bottom line.

This year, she said, she expected that families would come in as usual, buy a large gift that entire family could use such as a new television set, and have smaller, less expensive gifts for individual members of the household.

She still held out hopes that consumers would make a rush on newer technologies.

“We might see more traffic on television sets because of the February 20, 2009 changeover to digital televisions,” Slavings said.

Slavings also said that sales of console might be strong as well.

“Here’s the big thing,” she said.

“People are still shopping, people are still spending money.”

Nationally the outlook for retail appears gloomy, with the steep economic downturn in September precipitated by failure after failure of major Wall Street financial institutions, retailers have had to cut prices to attract customers who have been reluctant to spend into their stores.

At the nearby Target store, however, manager Ronnie Pope is expecting much

southern Prince George’s County.

According to court documents, the commissioner who authorized Stovall’s release twice was Joseph E. Clarkson.

“It’s outrageous,” White said of the suspect’s release.

White said that for Stovall’s murder case, authorities from Maryland had to travel to Oakland, Calif. to bring him back for trial.

The first alleged incident occurred May 20, when Stovall is said by police to have assaulted his wife when they began to argue over her seeking a legal separation.

Stovall, according to victim statements in the charging documents, “went ballistic,” grabbed his wife and shook her violently.

Stovall also allegedly smashed her head into the wall three times, court papers state.

When the victim asked Stovall to take her to get emergency medical treatment two days later, court papers continued, he did so only after she agreed not to talk to police about the incident.

The second alleged incident occurred in late May, according to charging documents,

M. Patty, who later died at St. Mary’s Hospital from a gunshot wound.

Sheriff Timothy Cameron reContinued from page A- ported that the incident had come after a domestic right after Christmas that we start seeing a really violence report. “There was a protection order in sharp increase in calls.” Colvin said that families place that Miss Dean had filed…he violated ththat may be feeling the impact of strained finances af- order and Mr. Watson was arrested on the st20 of ter bills arrive showing Christmas spending, and November, and he was released on the 21 …obshe expects that this year the center may see even viously she felt some threat…I don’t know what you can say, it was just a terrible loss of life,” said more calls than in previous years.

Dialogue on financial stress Cameron.

When asked about the upand domestic disputes seems almost ominous as it ward trend in domestic disputes, Cameron said, comes in the wake of the second murder reported “it seems like there have been more disputes over in St. Mary’s County this year. On November 24 money…and there’s been a significant increase of at approximately 4 a.m., police responded to a redisputes with people who’ve never been involved ported shooting in Lexington Park, which came as with the police before…in a number of cases there the result of a domestic dispute between Jeremiah were people we’ve never dealt with before.”

J. Watson and his former girlfriend, Tina L. Dean.

Certain organizations are tryWatson allegedly forced his way through Dean’s to address both the economic and domestic ing door and attacked her and her guest, Christopher violence issues in the community by extending

over whether Stovall and his wife were going to have a cookout at their Mechanicsville residence.

Court papers allege that Stovall grabbed his wife by both of her forearms and threw her into the bedroom wall and then slapped her in the face three times before throwing her again into the living room.

Charging documents go on to say that Stovall allegedly threatened to kill her if she went to the police.

The sheriff’s deputy who filed the charges said he observed redness and swelling on both of the alleged victim’s forearms as well as redness on her check from where she claimed Stovall had slapped her.

The deputy wrote that Stovall denied the argument turned into a physical altercation and said he had left the house to avoid a fight.

Stovall has currently been charged with two counts of second-degree assault, each of which carries a 10-year prison sentence if he is convicted. Administrative Commissioner Patrick Loveless did not return phone calls seeking comment on Clarkson’s behalf. services to more families in need, as well as providing housing and protection for victims of domestic violence. Leah’s House founder Marguerite Morris said she will be pushing to expand her existing facilities to accommodate more women and children. Having received a half a million dollars from the state and foundations, as well as $750,000 from the local business community for the construction of a new 10,000 square-foot facility, Morriss said, “we’re getting closer…but those are serious dollars in this economy.”

Morriss added that the construction of a safe-house with a high level of security and controlled access would be her ultimate goal, since no such facility exists in St. Mary’s County, and she has to instead drive victims to safe-houses in neighboring counties. “As far as someone saying they have a safe house to go to, it just doesn’t exist in this county,” said Morriss, “we can’t kid ourselves about that.”

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Wanderings of an Aimless Mind

Warm Thanksgiving Wishes

Shelby Oppermann

By Shelby Oppermann I wish for all of you readers that Thanksgiving Day brings a time of togetherness, whether it is with hugs in person or by an unexpected call from your faraway relative. I’m hoping for a relaxing day, where we get to visit with my brother Billy’s family this year. His son, Bill and wife, Kim gave birth to the first baby in 21 years on our side since my son, Ryan. I think new little Norah Ann might get a touch spoiled for Thanksgiving.

Then like so many families we have a second Thanksgiving on Saturday with my husband’s children and their families. My husband keeps saying we are having pizza that day, which is probably fine, everyone might be turkey’d out by that time. I have had as much as four Thanksgiving meals, as I would guess a few of you have too. Inlaws might host a breakfast, so a couple can then eat dinner with their other in-laws, and then have to do the same thing all over again on Friday with in-laws and step-parents. It does get very tricky in the planning department, but think of all the new recipes you get to try.

I used to love those large Thanksgiving gatherings from when I was little. We would bring the picnic table in from outside for the living room and have one small child’s table for my cousins and I. Of course, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade would be on in the background, and only us kids would be watching. At least until the time for Santa’s arrival at the end, when he brings in the Christmas season.

It still makes me catch my breath just as then, and isn’t truly the beginning of the season until I see Macy’s Santa. Yes, I will believe forever, and yes, maybe my middle name is “Pollyanna”. I still cry when he arrives and want to go yelling around the house, “Santa’s coming, Santa’s coming!” Tidbit gets excited and runs around with me having no idea why. She must be thinking, “Mommie, must really have to go outside and go potty bad.”

My Uncle Race, and his girlfriend from New York used to bring his friend we all called “Big Ed” to the family dinners. “Big Ed” was huge and my Mother had to do extra food planning when she knew he was coming. I liked him. He was a clothes buyer for Macy’s and every year, he would bring us presents which were the latest fashion. My Mother would grumble beforehand about him being there because he was loud, obnoxious, shuffle his feet back and forth under the table constantly, jingle coins in his pocket, and after dinner would find a chair to fall asleep in with his head back, mouth open and the most horrendous snores coming out of his mouth while other noises were coming out of other places. It was fun and fascinating to all the kids though.

For many years I “lucked out”, because my Mother loved to cook so much. So we always had Thanksgiving dinner at her house. One time, about maybe 13 years ago, I finally wanted to cook one myself at home. My Mother said fine, we could come over a few days later on her birthday and eat something else. I lived above where I worked at the time, and it was an old apartment with an olive green 1970’s oven, which was missing a few parts.

I followed all of Mommie’s recipes, stuffed the turkey and began baking it. After two hours or so, I noticed a funny smell, and called my mother. She asked questions about the turkey and if I had taken this and that out. Oops! What plastic contraption in the bottom of the bird? We had to try and get the hot turkey out of the oven, by now with lots of basting juices, and remember I said the oven was missing some parts. Well some of the parts were the tracks to hold the oven rack. The heavy pan twisted as my oldest son, Robert and I started to pull it out, and the whole thing went over in the oven! Nothing like burnt turkey butter, smoky kitchen, and a crying yelling Mom. My sons won’t forget that Thanksgiving for a long time. We did get the plastic out and save the dinner.

I miss those old memories, and the friends and all the relatives that are gone now, but we are creating new memories with each exciting year. I’m sure each of you have so many wonderful and funny Thanksgiving memories you cherish as well.

To each new day’s adventure and thanks for all that we have, Shelby Send comments to: shelbys.wanderings@yahoo.com A day of love and caring With all your family near Listening to the stories of ones you hold so dear the turkey’s stuffed and tender the yams are glazed and sweet warmth is all around you filling your heart with Peace

The County Times

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Section A -

To Stuff or Not to Stuff?

This and Other Thanksgiving Food Safety Questions Turkey and stuffing: Are there two foods more synonymous with the Thanksgiving holiday?

According to the University of Illinois Extension, 97 percent of Americans enjoy turkey on Thanksgiving, with a total of 675 million pounds of the bird being eaten each year on that famed November Thursday. As one of the ideal turkey dressings, millions of pounds of stuffing is also likely enjoyed across America during Thanksgiving.

Turkey and stuffing can bring smiles to the faces of friends and family this holiday.

However, if improperly prepared, they can also bring something else to the table -- food borne illnesses.

That is

cooking process. It is better to cook the stuffing and turkey separately. Once the turkey is nearly cooked through, the stuffing can be added to the bird’s cavity and heated up so that the flavors will meld and it makes for a traditional presentation.

What is the best way to thaw a turkey?

Turkeys come both fresh and frozen. A fresh turkey should be purchased no more than a day or two before it will be cooked. This is why many people opt for frozen turkeys, so that they can get the best deal and buy ahead.

Frozen turkeys will need to be thawed before cooking. It is not safe to thaw a turkey on the countertop as it may promote the proliferation of harmful bacteria at room temperature. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) says that you can choose among three methods of thawing: in the refrigerator, in the microwave, or by submerging it in cold water.

Depending upon the size of the turkey, it could take a day or more for the turkey to adequately thaw.

How do I know the turkey is done?

why it is important to maintain safety when handling and preparing the Thanksgiving feast.

Turkey should be cooked until the internal temperature reads a minimum of 165 F on a meat thermometer when the thickest part of the breast is checked. Baste the bird frequently to maintain moisture while cooking if you fear a dry bird. If you need to cook the turkey longer to achieve this internal temperature, consider tenting parts like the wings and breast which may burn or dry out with aluminum foil to redirect some of the oven heat.

How do I handle leftovers?

Should Istuff the turkey before cooking?

One of the first safety concerns should be with regard to stuffing a raw turkey and then cooking the stuffing and turkey together in the oven. Health officials advise against stuffing the turkey, primarily because salmonella and other microscopic pathogens may enter the stuffing from the raw juices of the turkey and then not be adequately eradicated during the

Trial Continued from page A- on South Coral Drive.

Charging documents filed at the time by then-Detective Clayton Safford of the St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigations alleged that Potts told the chief of the fire department that he had just killed someone inside the firehouse that evening.

Safford wrote in his statement of probable cause that when he made contact with Potts he observed blood on his shirt, shorts, shoes and socks.

Detectives who collected evidence at the scene found a large amount of blood in the upstairs sleeping quarters of the building as well as blood spatter on the wall.

They also found a trail of blood leading from the lounge area to a storage room where they found Choporis’ body wrapped in blankets, towels and plastics that were soaked in

It’s easy to linger at a Thanksgiving table overflowing with food. However, it is not a good idea to package up foods that have been left out for more than two hours. When satiated, wrap up gravies, stuffings, leftover turkey, and all the rest and put it in the refrigerator as soon as you can. Do not leave “doggie bags” out for guests. You want them leaving with fond memories of the meal, not with leftovers that may cause food poisoning later on.

his own blood.

Choporis had sustained several wounds from an edged weapon, charging documents state, to his neck and his head.

Detectives also found that some of the blood might have been the subject of an attempted cleanup effort using solvents.

Detectives found a knife, also covered in blood, in a pair of shorts near the body that was later identified as belonging to Potts, charging documents allege.

Court papers go on to say that Potts admitted to hitting Choporis in the head with a golf club after becoming agitated with him.

A struggle between the two men ensued, charging papers allege, in which Potts produced his folding knife from his pants pocket and cut Choporis several times.

Potts then wrapped Choporis in the blankets and other material and dragged him to the storage area.

Potts was charged with both first-degree and second-degree murder.

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The County Times The County Times

Thursday, August 21, 2008 Section A -

Section A - Thursday, November 27, 2008

Obituaries Alice Mildred Brown, 99 John Wesley Berry, 89 John Wesley Berry, 89, of Lexington Park died Nov. 20 in St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonardtown.

Born Feb. 25, 1919 in Oakville, he was the son of the late Milton Berry and Annie Gray Berry.

John is survived by his wife, Julia Elizabeth Berry, his children; Debra Curtis and Judith Toney of Lexington Park, Karen Owens of Oklahoma, Brenda Johnson of Aberdeen, Md., Elaine Williams, Delma Brown and Linda Fraley of Newport News, Va., John Berry, Jr. of Great Mills, Shawn Berry of Lexington Park, and Joseph Berry of Washington, D.C.; siblings, Henrietta Briscoe, Alice Mildred Brown, 99 Annie Young, Lou Barnes, of Leonardtown died Aug. 16 Carrie Miles, Ben Berry, in her home.

Thomas Berry, Saint Berry, 9, Berry, 1908 and in GusBorn Berry,Nov. Turner Baltimore, Md., she was the Wallace Berry. daughter of the late James and He was preceded in death Lilly Mae Jackson Rebham. by his son, Samuel Johnson wasEmma a member of St. andShe a sister Berry.

George’s Episcopal His family will Church, receive Valley of the– friendsLee, Nov.and 28 Order from 9:30 Eastern Star, Chapter 107, Ju11 a.m. in Immaculate Heart lia Halla, Hollywood. of Mary Church, Lexington Mrs. survived Park.

A Brown Mass ofis Christian by two sons, Lloyd E. (Jerry) Burial will be celebrated at 11 Brown, Jr. of Leonardtown a.m. with Reverend Jack Kenand Bruce Brown nealyWillard as the celebrant.

Interof Terra W.inVa. She is ment willAlta, follow the church also survived by six grandcemetery. children, Julie Brown-Rund, to the famCondolences Jeff Brown, Nancyat www.

Deal, ily may be made Wendy Jarda, Judy Graybill brinsfieldfuneral.com. and Pheobe Brown, and Arrangements by eight the great-grandchildren Clay and Brinsfield Funeral Home, Will Kristen and Josh Leonardtown.

P.A., Rund, Brown, Shawn and Bruce Deal, Audrey and Samantha Andrew Richard CourtJarda. ney, 84 She was predeceased by a daughter Betty Ruth Andrew Richard CourtBrown and a brother John B. ney, 84 of Lexington Park Fenwick. passed away Nov. 18 at ChesRelatives and friends atapeake Shores, Lexington tended Mrs. Brown’s Life Park.

Celebration in the Brinsfield Born Nov. 14, 1924, in St. Funeral Home, Leonardtown Mary’s City, he was the son Wednesday, Aug. 20 from 5 – of the late James and Julia 8Courtney. p.m. with prayers recited at 7 p.m. funeral service was awill laMr.A Courtney be held Thursday, Aug. 21 at borer for a Construction 11 a.m. in St. George’s EpisCompany. copalHeChurch, Valley by his Lee. wife is survived Reverend Greg Syler, pastor Mary Robinson Courtney of of the church, officiate.

Lexington Park;will his children, Interment will in the Charles R. follow Courtney, of church cemetery.

Eastern Shore, Maryland, Memorial Contributions Mary Ann Courtney, Branmay be made The MisScott don Adams andtoLanie sions FundJoyce or all of Endowment Lexington Park, Cemetery and Grounds Fund, Fenwick of Ridge, and Milc/o Episcopal ton St. and George’s Benny Fluellen of Church, P.O. Box 30, Buffalo, N.Y.; siblings;Valley Lottie Lee, 20692.

DoveMD of Park Hall, Christine Condolences to the Park, famFenwick of Lexington ily may be made at www.

Margaret Kelly of Park Hall, brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Doris Briscoe Ratchford of the ParkArrangements Hall and Agnesby Thomas Brinsfield Funeral Home, of Delware, Md. P.A.,In Leonardtown. addition to his parents Mr. Courtney was predeceased by three brothers and Francis Joseph one sister.

Brown, Sr., 66 friends Family received from 9 – 11 a.m. Nov. 25 Francis Brown, in Park HallJoseph True Holiness Sr., 66, where passeda away in Serhis Church Funeral home in Indian Trail, N.C. be conducted at vice was Aug. 12. with Pastor Richard 11 a.m.

Mr. Brown was born July Sawyer officiating.

Interment 1, 1942 in Leonardtown, will followson in thethe church cemetery. of late Mary Edna Brown Condolences to the famNorris. ily Mr. may Brown be made at www. is survived brinsfieldfuneral.com by his wife Jacqueline MerArrangements provided cer Brown; a son Francis J. by theJr. Brinsfield Brown, and his wifeFuneral Shelia Home, P.A., Leonardtown. of Stanfield, N.C.; a daughter Jennifer Lynn Brown of IndianAmanda Trail, N.C.Louise and two grand“Mandaughters Christianna dy” Dean, 84 Page and Allyson Grace Brown.

The familyA mreceived anda friends Sunday, Aug.“Mandy” 17 from Louise 2 – 5 p.m. Dean, in the84, Mattingof Holley-Gardiner lywood, Funeral Home, Md., where Prayers diedwere Nov.said 19 at in 3 p.m. A Mass of Christian Asbury Nursing Burial was celebrated Home in MonSoloday, Aug. 18 mons, Md. at 9:30 a.m. in St. Francis Xavier Born Oct. 10, Catholic 1924 in Church with Fr. Leonardtown sheJohn wasMatthe tingly officiating.

Interment daughter of the late Garrett followed in Louise CharlesFergerson MemoThomas and rial Gardens.

Jones.

Arrangements provided She was the loving wife by the Mattingley-Gardiner of the late Joseph Albert Dean Funeral Home, P.A. Jan. 13, whom she married 1945 in Leonardtown and who preceded her in death Jan. 9, 1980.

She is survived by her children; Joe Dean and his

Luis Antonia Castillo, 70 wife Sue of Hollywood, Leroy Luis Jones andAntonia his wifeCastillo, Carolyn70, of of Leonardtown died Mechanicsville, Cliff Aug. Dean16 of in St. Mary’s Gary Nursing Center, Hollywood, Dean and Leonardtown. his wife Maria of HughesBorn Sept. 20, 1937 in ville, Margie Sandidge and Puerto Rico, he was the son of herlate husband Richardand of Calithe Luis Antonia Elsa Md., Dale Dean and fornia, Monserrate Morales Castillo. his wife Susan of Hollywood Luis is survived by three and Marlene Freeman sisters, M. Elaine Ohler and of her husband Rick of Millsboro, Del., EvelynHollyCasis also survived by wood. tillo of She Chestertown, Md. and fourteen grandchildren, nineElsie Collins of Las Vegas, teen great-grandchildren Nev. He is also survived and by her siblings Copsey, several niecesConnie and nephews.

Hoover Jones, Samuelfriends Jones Family received and Leona Stone, HollyWednesday, Aug. all 20 of from 11 of Mewood, a.m.

– Cecilia noon inMorgan the Brinsfield chanicsville andLeonardtown, Lindy Jones Funeral Home, with prayers recited at noon. of Tennessee.

Deacon L’Heureux She George was preceded in officiated.

Graveside death by her siblings service Evelya followed 2 p.m.Jones, at Cedar Clements,atThomas HilHill Cemetery, Suitland, da Morgan, Ruby JonesMd. and Memorial McKinley Jones.Contributions may A be made to theresident St. Mary’s lifelong of Nursing Center Foundation, St. Mary’s County, Mandy Inc., graduated from Great Mills High21585 SchoolPeabody in Ridge, Street, “Class Leonardtown, of 1942.” SheMD was20650. a health Condolences famservice worker intoSt.theMary’s ily may be made at www.

Nursing home for 30 years, brinsfieldfuneral.com. retiring in 1989. She loved Arrangements by the yard work, gardening, family Brinsfield Funeral Home, time Leonardtown. and playing bingo.

P.A., The family received friends Nov. 21 from 5 – 8 p.m. in the Mattingley-GarFuneralRaymond Home, LeonarddinerLloyd Harris, 97were said town, where prayers at 7 p.m. A funeral service was held Nov. 22 at 10 a.m. in Hollywood United Methodist Church, Hollywood, with Rev. Sheldon Reese officiating. Interment followed in Joy Chapel Cemetery, Hollywood. Pallbearers were Steve Sandidge, Brian Dean, David Alvey, Ricky Sandidge, Billy Dean and Ronnie Jones.

Honorary pallbearers were Rick Freeman and Richard Sandidge.

Contributions may be made to Calvert County Hospice, P.O. Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Lloyd Raymond HarFuneral Home, P.A. ris, 97, died peacefully Aug. 12 in the St. Mary’s Nursing Margaret Ann “Peggy” Center.

Mr. Harris was a longtime Smith Giddings, 76 resident of St. Mary’s County.

He was born inAnn Gallatin, Mo. Margaret “Peggy” June 1911 to the HowSmith13,Giddings, 76,late of Helen, ard May Harris and Frankie formerly of Hollywood, and Lee HeNov.21 married ValleyJackson.

Lee, died in his beloved wife of 59 years, Bushwood.

MaryBorn Catherine May 15,“Sis” 1932Nelson in Nyat the Washington ack, N.Y. she was theCathedral daughter in Washington D.C. 2, of the late Herbert andSept.

Martha 1939.

She preceded him in Potter Smith. She was the lovdeath in of 1998.

He H. was“Tom” also ing wife Clifton preceded in death in 1998 by Giddings, whom she married his beloved sister Margaret Oct. 16, 1954 in Columbus Harris.

Presbyterian Church, ColumMr. Harris served in the N.J. bus, United States Army as an AsSheChaplain. is survived by her sistant Following children; Victor heTom his army service was Gidemdings ofinBethesda, Md.,D.C. Jefployed Washington, frey Herbert Giddings of by the Federal Government Rockville, Md., Karen Weinfor many years before retirDel. andinGary ing ofHeNewark, ing. then worked the Dunham Giddings of Laketax department for the State Fla.; sister: Gale in of land, of Maryland andJean retired Wrightstown, N.J.retirement, and four 1971.

During his grandchildren. he and his wife enjoyed travgraduated from elingPeggy throughout the United Pemberton High School, PemStates.

He enjoyed playing cards, berton, N.J. June 8, 1949 and dancing buying newJersey cars. she also and attended New Ray loved and in most of College for life Women Rider all he enjoyed helping College Trenton, N.J.others She while nothing in movedexpecting to St. Mary’s County return. was devoted in the in 1955Hefrom Silver Spring, care his wife sister unMd. ofShe was and a housewife til their death. of Terra Marie and a member The family received Quilters. friends in the Service MattingleyA Memorial was Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A., held Nov. 25 at 10:30 a.m. in Leonardtown, Friday, Aug.Fu15 the Mattingley-Gardiner from – 10 a.m. withwith a funerneral 9Home Chapel Rev. al service that followed at In10 Gregory Syler officiating. a.m. officiated by Rev. Keith terment will be Private. ConSchukraft. Interment followed tributions be made to St. at Charles may Memorial Gardens George’s Episcopal Church, in Leonardtown. Pallbearers P.O. Box 30, Nelson, Valley Lee, MD were Frank Donnie 20692.

Bowles, Fred Nelson, Harry Arrangements Nelson, Jr., Michaelprovided Russell

by Roy the Copsey.

Mattingley-Gardiner and Funeral Home, P.A. may be Contributions made to American Heart Association, 415 “Debbie” N. Charles Deborah Jean Street, Baltimore, MD Hall, 51 21201-4101.

Arrangements D e provided borah by the Mattingley-Gardiner Jean “Debbie” Funeral Home, P.A.51 of AveHall, nue, died Nov. 18 in her residence.

Born July 29, 1957 in Leonardtown, she was the daughter of

Valorie Anne Henry, Geneva C. Farrell48of Avenue and the late J.T. West.

She is survived by her children Christopher Johnson and his wife Danielle of Jacksonville, Fla, Lisa Ryce and her husband Timmy of Leonardtown and Kerri Hall of Avenue, as well as five grandchildren; Cheyenne Corbett, Jacob Johnson, Heaven Ryce, Abi Ryce and Lizzy Ryce.

She is also survived by her sisters Judy Wilson and Kathy Bell, both of Leonardtown and Freida Dixon of Lexington Park, as well as her nieces and nephews Sherry Hawkins, Heather Belosi, Timmy Dixon, Gary Quade and Ashley Bell, and ten great nieces and nephews.

A lifelong resident of St. Valorie Anne Henry, 48, Mary’s County, Debbie loved of Mechanicsville, formerly her cats and loved to be at the of Grandview, Mo., died Aug. beach crabbing and spending 17, in Lexington Park. time with her grandchildren.

31, 1959 in TheBorn familyOct. received friends Lincoln, Neb. she was the Nov. 24 from 5 – 6 p.m. in the daughter of James Ray DickMattingley-Gardiner Funeral inson of Mouldrow, Okla.

Home, Leonardtown, where and Hortense Annefollowed Campbell a funeral service at Crawford of Grandview, Mo. 6 p.m. with Pastor Mark GarShe was the loving wifewas of rett officiating.

Interment Earl Allan Henry, whom she private. married July 16, 1986may in WarContributions be rensburg, Mo. made to the American Cancer She is by her Society, St. survived Mary’s County son Earl Ian Henry.

Unit, P.O. Box 1032, LexingMrs. MDHenry ton Park, 20653. graduated Arrangements from Grandview High provided School’s Class of 1977.

She by the Mattingley-Gardiner moved to St. Mary’s County Funeral Home, P.A. in October 1988 from Waldorf, Md. Karen Diane Lemmon, The family will receive 50 Aug. 23 friends Saturday, from 10 – 11 a.m. in PatuxKaren Assembly Diane Lemmon, ent River of God 50, of Lusby, died Nov. 18 ina Church, California, where her home after a prolonged Funeral Service will be held and11 courageous battleLanny with at a.m. with Pastor breast cancer.

Clark officiating. Interment 12, 1958 in will Born be heldApril Wednesday, Aug. Kitlery, Maine, she was the 27 at 10 a.m. in Maryland daughter Cemetery, of the lateCheltenGlynn Veteran’s AldenMd. Waldrop and Norma ham, Elaine (Daniels) Waldrop.

Contributions may be She was a Southern Marymade to Hospice if St. Mary’s, resident for 14 years.

Karland P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, en was a career civil servant MD 20650. withArrangements the Department of the provided Navy and had worked aboard by the Mattingley-Gardiner NAS Patuxent Funeral Home,River P.A. for many years. She was a member of Southpoint Church in Leonardtown. Her limitless optiKaren A. mism and unshakeable faith McEntyre, 51 in God were an inspiration to all who knew her. Her love for Karen was A. McEntyre, of travelling matched 51 only Lexington Park, formerly of by her love and devotion to Plano, Texas, died Aug. 13 in her family.

Washington Hospital Center.

She is survived by her Born Feb. 24, 1957 in three children, Timothy HoltSweetwater, Texas she was er of Orlando, Fla., Kristin the daughter of Carold and Lemmon of Virginia Beach, Mary Aleese Benson of PlaVa., and Rebecca Lemmon of no, Texas.

Philadelphia, Pa., four grandShe is Brydgit also survived by Lorraine, children, her children Jeremy Porter Daniel Holter, Emma Holter, of Texas, Jonathan andSnyder, Gabrielle Dewey, three Porter Plano,Banks Texas,ofAngie sisters,ofTanya HenPorter, SheilaN.C., Hortonand andJudy Madersonville, rissa Horton, all of Lexington Lee and Michelle Mahoney, Park as her brother both asof well Mountain Grove, Victor Benson of Plano, Mo., and several niecesTexas and and three grandchildren. nephews.

Karen employed as a Familywas received friends registered nurse. for Karen’s Life Celebration Nov.All 23services from 2 are – 5private. p.m. in Arrangements provided the Brinsfield Funeral Home, by the Mattingley-Gardiner Prayers were Leonardtown.

Funeral Home, P.A.A Funeral recited at 4 p.m.

Service was conducted Nov. 24 at 1 p.m. at St. Nicholas ChapelTimothy aboard Brian NAS Patuxent River.

Matt Hall, McGrath, 50 pastor of Southpoint Church will officiate.

Interment in Timothy Brianfollowed McGrath, Charles Memorial Park Gardens, 50, of Lexington died Leonardtown.

Aug. 11 in St. Mary’s HospiMemorial contributions tal, Leonardtown. mayBorn be made Calvert HosJuneto 14, 1958 in Box 838, the Prince pice, P.O.Ill., Freeport, he was son Frederick, the of PatriciaMD 20678 (Chambers)orMcSusan B. Komen Breast CanGrath of Mesa, Ariz. and the cer Charles Society, McGrath.

200 East Joppa late Road, Suite 407,attended Towson, MD Timothy La21286. salle-Peru High School in Lathe famsalle,Condolences Ill. where hetograduated ily1976. may He beserved made inatthewww. in U.S. brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Navy from 1976 until 1999. byNavy, the AfterArrangements his service in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, Timothy was employed by a P.A., Leonardtown.

Government Contractor and worked at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. was an Malcolm VivienHe Morris, Elks Lodge 85 member and a past member of the Lexington Park Volunteer M a l Rescue colm Vivien Morris, 85, of Leonarpassed dtown away Nov. 20 in the St. Mary’s

Squad.

In addition his mother, Nursing Centertoafter sufferTimothy is survived by his ing with cancer. wifeBorn DebraJune Kay 21, (Houtz) 1923Mcin Grath, his son, Sean Loveville, he was the Patrick son of McGrath of Lexington the late Storer Miles andPark, Aghis sister, Karen Morris. of nes Helen Pussler McGrath Mesa, andserved his brother, Mr.Ariz.

Morris in the Michael McGrath of Ill.during United States Navy A memorial service will WWII and was deployed in be held Saturday, 23 at the Pacific. He was Aug. discharged 10 a.m. atofthe1946 Bayand District in March then Volunteer Fire Department, married Charlotte Lambert Lexington Park.

April 21, 1946.

Condolences to themoved famIn 1926, his parents ily may be made at www. to Baltimore, Md. where he brinsfieldfuneral.com. attended School # 208, Curtis

by High, the Bay,Arrangements Ben Franklin Jr. Brinsfield Polytechnic. Funeral He went toHome, work P.A., Leonardtown. for Western Electric, Point Breeze from age 18, retiring in July 1972 as a Machinist.

Patrick Miller He movedConnor to Pamplin, Va. 2to farm and back to Maryland in September 1988 on his Uncle Wilmer Pussler’s farm. He was a conservationist, environmentalist and farmer. His passion was farming, raising a garden, watching the deer and eagles on the farm and the geese as they landed on the pond. Mr. Morris was also a lifetime member of the VFW Post 2632, California.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Morris is survived by his daughter; Patricia Ann Prosey, (Joe) of Leonardtown, grandchildren; Vicki L. Croucier, of Rancho Patrick (Juan) Connor MillPalos Verdes, Calif., John C. er 2, of Avenue died Aug. Morris, (Brandi) of Orlando, 12 in St. Mary’s Hospital, Fla., great-grandchildren; Leonardtown.

RyanConnor C. Croucier of Rancho was born Oct. 11, Palos in Verdes, Logan E. 2005 AnneCalif., Arundel Mediand Lucas Morris E. Morris cal Center, Annapolis, Md., of Orlando, the son of Fla. James L. Miller Malcolm was preceded and Krystal Kaldenbach of in death by his son, John R. Avenue.

Morris insurvived Januaryby 1979 He is two and sishis sister Vanters, LillianWilhelmina and Kayla Miller, in September 1997. aDyke brother Kyle Miller, his paternal grandparents L. Family receivedJames friends and of Nov.Darlene 25 fromOliver 5 – 8Miller p.m. in Chaptico, maternal grandparthe Brinsfield Funeral Home, ents, Kaldenbach Leonardtown, where ofa P.A., Eugene Harrimon, Tenn., and Debra Funeral Service was conductAdams Kaldenbach Winwith FatherofJoseph ed at 7 p.m. chester, Ky.; great-grandparDobson officiating.

Interment ents Francis Nov. and 26 atAudrey 10 a.m.Oliin will be ver of Chaptico and Glen Haven Memorial Park G r e a tg r aBurnie, n d m o tMd. hers Cemetery, Glen Mary of MemoriWaldorf, InLou lieu Adams of flowers Md. and Shirley of mayMiller be made al contributions Newburg, Md. to the American Cancer Socifamily St. Mary’s Countyreceived – Unit ety, The friends for Connor’s Life 350, P.O. Box 1032, Lexington Celebration Sunday, Aug. 17 Park, 3MD from – 420653 p.m. in the BrinsCondolences to Leonardthe famfield Funeral Home, may be made at www. ily town, with a funeral service at brinsfieldfuneral.com 4 p.m. Interment was private.

Arrangementsto provided Condolences the famby Brinsfield Funeral ily may be made at Home, www.

P.A., Leonardtown. brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Parker, Home, Cecelia Elizabeth P.A.,79 Leonardtown.

Cecelia

Mary Elizabeth Aleathea Parker known to Redmond, 84

most as “Tillie” departed this earthly life Nov. 19 on her 79th birthday.

She was born Nov. 19, 1929 in Hollywood, Md. to the proud parents, James Albert and Cecelia Maria (Stevens) Butler.

Cecelia was the youngest of eleven children and is survived by two sisters, Marie Barnes and Annie Pauline Fitzgerald.

Tillie was predeceased by her other nine siblings, Hortense, Gladys, John, James Albert, Priscilla, Phillip Leroy, Joseph Roy, Mary and her parents.

Mary Aleathea Redmond, Tillie was educated in St. 84, of Leonardtown died Aug. Mary’s County schools.

She 16 in St. Mary’s Hospital. attended the Phyllis Wheatley, Born Elementary April 18, 1924 in Oakville and St. Mechanicsville she was the Joseph’s Schools. In 1953, Tildaughter of William Clarence Dews Leo Evlie married of ans and Gertrude Virginia and out ofM. that(Pilkerunion, ton) TillieEvans. bore her first child, Rose Aleathea graduated Mary Dews. Tillie later from marMargaret Brent High ried Thomas Bernard School Parker in 1941.of She workedCounty from “Tom” St. Mary’s 1961 to 1971 as a secretary/reand three children, Portia, ceptionist for St. Mary’s ColThomas Jr., and Cecelia Malege. She enjoyed cooking, were bornplaying of that union. ria, croqueting, cards, On March 1999, often Tom gardening, and 16, sewing; preceded Tillie in death.

Tillie making clothing for her and wasdaughter. devoted to her family and her spentShe a number of years is preceded in workdeath ing in the home taking care of by husband James Franklin her children and grandchildren. Even when she worked outside of the home, Tillie served others by cooking, cleaning and caring for the elderly and worked at several

Redmond, whom she married March 4, 1945St. at the Implaces throughout Mary’s maculate Conception Catholic County. Tillie loved having Church in Mechanicville.

She fun and tried to make the most is survived by her beloved chilof her days here on Earth. She dren Gayle A. Hancock and also really enjoyed entertainher husband William of Fairand others into ing fax, Va.,welcoming and James “Frank” her home.

If she knew someRedmond and his wife Wanda was in need, sheVa. didShe what one of Fredericksburg, is she could to help.

Among also survived by three grandher favorite pastimes were children, Jeffery A. Hancock listening to music, dancing, and his wife Jennifer of Fairdressing throwing parties, fax, Va.,up, Mark D. Redmond playing and watching and his cards wife Tanya of Fredtelevision. alsoP.a Redlong ericksburg,She Va.,was Jason time of Holy Angels mondmember of Fredericksburg; and Catholic Church. four great-grandchildren.

Those to cherish the She wasleft preceded in death life and legacy Cecelia by her sister AgnesofRice.

FamilyParker received friends Elizabeth include her Wednesday, from 9:30 four children,Aug. one20 son-in-law, – 10:30 a.m. in the Jeffrey Miller, oneBrinsfield daughFuneral Home, P.A., ter-in-law, Rosetta LeonarParker, dtown.

A Mass of Terrah Christian ten grandchildren, A. Burial was celebrated a.m., Dews, Shelita Battle,11Alicia Wednesday, Aug. Robinson, 20 at St. Battle, Clinton Aloysius Catholic Church, Jr., Glenn Battle Jr., Quentin Leonardtown, with Rev. John Deante Robinson, Stephanie Dakes officiating.

Interment Parker, Dominique Cornelius followedJeffrey in Charles Memorial Parker, Parker, ChrisGardens, Leonardtown. tina Parker, two great grandServing, as Battle pallbearers children, Rakiah and were Mark Redmond, Jason Nia Tapp and a host of nephRedmond, Jeffery Hancock, nieces, cousins and lifeews, Bill Hancock, Lawrence Pilklong friends. erton, and Arthur Pilkerton.

The pallbearer family was received Honorary Earl friends Sunday, Nov. 23 from Dean.

2 – Memorial 5 p.m. in the Mattingcontribution ley-Gardiner can be madeFuneral to the Home, Ridge Leonardtown, where prayers Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. were saidRidge, at 3 p.m.

Mass Box 456, MD A 20680. of Christian Burial celCondolences to was the famat 10at a.m. in ebrated ily mayNov. be 24 made www.

Holy Angels Catholic Church brinsfieldfuneral.com. withArrangements Fr. William Gurnee ofby the ficiating.

BrinsfieldInterment Funeral followed Home, in Heart Cemetery, P.A.,Sacred Leonardtown.

Bushwood.

Arrangements provided by Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A. Louis Marshall “Junior”

Morganza, Donnie Thompson and his Interment wife Debbiewill of folMeciating. chanicsville and Rose Mary low in Maryland Veteran’s George andCheltenham, her husband Md. John Cemetery, of Avenue; 16 grandchildren, at noon. Pallbearers will be 44 great-grandchildren, two her brother John Kennedy, step-grandchildren and his her son John Ozella RamosLacey III, her sisters Mary of son-in-law Robert Bowden, Abell, Gertrude Osborne of and daughters King her George, Va. and Hazel Susan Ramos Reece, Frances RaVallandingham of Bushwood.

Verbruggen and Mary mos He was preceded in death Ramos. by one great-grandchild and Contributions be his sisters Catherine may Hall and made the Parkinson DisLouisetoBryant. www.pdf. easeAFoundation, lifelong resident of St. org.

Mary’s County, Junior was Arrangementswaterman. provided a self-employed by the Mattingley-Gardiner While enlisted in the U.S. Funeral Home, Army from Oct.P.A. 19, 1944 to Nov. 19, 1945, he served as a rifleman, a lightSpry, machine Melissa Louise 63 gunner and a cook.

He belonged to Louthe Melissa Knights of Columbus and enise Spry, 63, of joyed playing cards and Park, being Lexington with his family and his died Nov. 17two in special buddies Maynard and her residence.

Ringo.

Born March The family received 13, 1945 in friends in the Mattingley-GarCleveland, Ohio, she was diner Funeral Home Thursday, the daughter of the with late Aug. 7 from 5 – 8 p.m.

Ralph B. and Florance prayers being said at 7 p.m.H. A Meresicky Frick. Mrs. Mass of Christian BurialSpry was was a registered celebrated Friday,nurse.

Aug. 8 at byCathher survived 9:30She a.m.is in Holy Angels husband, Spry olic Church,Donald Avenue,J.with Fr. of Lexington three William GurneePark, officiating. daughters, Laura inMerkle Interment followed Sacred of Dayton, Ohio,Bushwood.

Melissa Heart Cemetery, Jett of Asheville, MiPallbearers wereN.C., Johnny of Richchelle George,Rutherford Jereme George, Tina Fay Ferguson, landtown, Pa., Dave three Hodgsons, es, Matthew and John Rogers Thompson of Cleveland, Donnie Thompson.

Honorary Ohio, Matthew Rogers of pallbearers wereCalif., his grandLos Angeles, Stechildren, nieces and nephews.

Spry of Quakertown, phen may be Pa. Contributions , seven grandchildren, made sisters, to Holy Susan AngelsCowles Sacred three Heart School, 21335 Colton’s of Los Angeles, Calif, LauPoint Road, Avenue, Fall, MD of Shargin ra Frick 20609, Seventh District VolOhio, Tina Frick of Kent, Thompson, Jr., 84 unteerand Rescue Squad,Kevin P.O. a brother, Hazel DeSilva Kennedy Ohio Box 7, Avenue, MD 20609 Frick of Cleveland, Ohio.

Ramos, 89 and/or of St.received Mary’s, TheHospice family P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, for Melissa’s Life H a z e l friends MD 20650.

Celebration Nov. 21 from DeSilva KenArrangements provided 5 – 8 p.m. in the Brinsfield nedy Ramos, by the Mattingley-Gardiner Home, 89 of Lexing- Funeral Funeral Home, P.A.Leonardton Park, and town. Prayers were recited formerly of at 7 p.m. A Mass of Chriswas celebrated New Orleans, tian Burial Evelyn Tillotson Nov. 22 at 10 a.m. in ImLa., died Nov. 22 in her Woods, 86 Heart of Mary maculate residence.

Catholic Church, LexingBorn Feb. 9, 1919 in Evelyn Tillotson Woods, Park.

The Reverend ton New Orleans, La., she was 86, of California died Aug. 14 Kennealy was the celthe daughter of the late Jack in St. Mary’s Nursing Center, Interment followed Matthew James and Hazel ebrant.

Leonardtown. church cemetery.

Catherine DeSilva Ken- in the Born Dec. 18, 1921 in Memorial nedy, Jr. LeMoyne, Pa.,contributions she was the may be made She the “Junior” loving daughter of the to lateHOSPICE George C. Louis was Marshall St. Mary’s, P.O. wife of John Ramos, Jr. of Tillotson and Eva Inc., (DowhowThompson, Jr., 84, of Avenue Box 625, Leonardtown, of Park, whom er) Tillotson. Evelyn was an diedLexington Aug. 4 in his residence. she He married Feb.July 7, 20, 1953 in MD avid 20650.

Pittsburgh Steelers fan. was born 1924 Holy Face Church, Great Evelyn is survived by in Dynard to the late Louis Mills.

Joseph William “Billy” daughters, Christine Marshall and Catherine Elea- her In addition to her of Chesapeake nor Harris Thompson Sr.hus- W. Moore Tinsley, 50 is survived byhusher Beach, Md. and Deborah band, Heshe was the loving California, band of Rose LeeRamos Thompson children; John III J. Standish ofJoseph Wiland four whom he married 26, four grandchildren, of Oakdale, Conn.,July Hazel liam “Billy” great-grandchildren.

1942 in Sacred Heart Church, Catherine Ramos Reece of Tinsley, 50, of All services Bushwood.

He Frances is also AusurKona, Hawaii, H o lare l y private. wood, Condolences the Nov. famvived by his children, Margusta Ramos Verbruggen Md. to died at www. garet Taylor and husband of Portland, Ore.her and Mary ily may be17made in St. Mary’s GeorgeRamos of Hollywood, Buddy brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Anne of Baltimore, Hospital.

Arrangements by the Thompson wife DebMd. She is and alsohis survived by 5, 1958 in Born Jan. Brinsfield Funeral Home, bie of Avenue, Benny Thompher brother John Kennedy Leonardtown he was the sonFairfax, and his Va. wifeand Mary of P.A., Leonardtown. of seven son of Agnes C. (Wood) grandchildren.

Tinsley of Hollywood, and She was preceded in the late Fred R. Tinsley, death by her siblings; Mar- Sr. Billy was a painting garet Kennedy, Matthew contractor.

Kennedy and Sr. Gloria Billy is survived by his Laboure. mother Agnes Tinsley, his Hazel graduated from daughters, Amber R. GasEleanor McMain High kill of Leonardtown, and School, New Orleans, Brandy L. Tinsley of Valley “Class of 1935” and Mar- Lee, his siblings, Mary E. garet G. Hanson Normal Bailey of St. Inigoes, James School, New Orleans, F. Tinsley of Hollywood, “Class of 1937,” Tulane Uni- Fred R. Tinsley, Jr. of Richversity of Louisiana, New mond, Va.,, and Michael A. Orleans, with a Bachelor of Tinsley of Hollywood, and Arts from the Division for three grandchildren, AnTeachers “Class of 1942” drew M. Fowler, Savannah and University of Michigan, F. Gaskill and Blaine B. Ann Arbor, with a Master Gaskill. of Science in Mathematics Family received friends “Class of 1948.” She moved for Billy’s Life Celebration to St. Mary’s County in the Nov. 22 from noon – 2 p.m. late 1940’s from New Or- in the Brinsfield Funeral leans and was an algebra Home, Leonardtown. A and geometry teacher at St. Funeral Service was conMary’s Academy in Leon- ducted at 2 p.m. Reverend ardtown for twenty years. Ray Schmidt, pastor of St. She retired in June, 1981.

John Francis Regis Catholic The family received Church was the celebrant. friends Nov. 25 from 5 – 8 Interment was private. p.m. in the Mattingley-GarCondolences to the famdiner Funeral Home, with ily may be made at www.

Prayers said at 6:45 p.m. A brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Mass of Christian Burial Arrangements by the will be celebrated Nov. 26 Brinsfield Funeral Home, at 10 a.m. in Immaculate P.A., Leonardtown.

Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Lexington Park, with Fr. Jack Kennealy offi-

To Place a Memorial Ad Please Call The County Times at 301-373-4125

The County Times

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Section A -

Wednesday, Nov. 26

Saturday, Nov. 29

VS. The Earth & DJ Rob Hotel Charles, Hughesville- 9:30 pm Cover charge. Call 301-274-4612 for more information.

Special Olympics NL Hold’em Tournament Bennett Building (across from the Hollywood Rescue Squad), Hollywood- 7 p.m.

18 and up. Buy-in is $55 ($40 prize pool; $10 charity; $5 bounty). You’ll receive 2,000 in starting chips with blinds starting at 10-20. Payouts are determined according to the number of players. Sign-up is from 6:15 – 6:45 p.m., tournament and side games begin at 7 p.m. This tournament benefits the Special Olympics in St. Mary’s County and the Center for Life Enrichment. For further information and/or to pre-register, call Bobbi Sprouse at 240-577-0983 or contact via email at wavqueen1@yahoo.com (no email on day of tournament). You can also reach Jim Bucci, Sr. at 301373-6104 for questions.

No Green JellyBeenz & DJ Rob Hotel Charles, Hughesville- 9:30 p.m.

No Green JellyBeenz in the Party Room with DJ Rob playing during intermissions. After Thanksgiving Party, turkey, pie, etc.

Cover charge. Call 301-274-4612 for more information.

‘Tis the Season

“Saint Maries Musica” Gearing Up For Christmas Shows Andrea Shiell Staff Writer They are not what you would call professional singers, instead volunteering their time to perform madrigal music at regional churches and fundraisers throughout the community, but the performance group called “Saint Maries Musica” certainly makes an impression when they grace the stage wearing Renaissance costumes and singing the likes of Handel’s “Messiah” in addition to a barrage of other madrigal and modern tunes.

Starting as the Madrigal Concert Ensamble in 1971, when a group of neighbors decided to come together to perform musical compositions written during the Renaissance and Baroque eras, the group has grown to 21 members including music teachers, engineers, nurses, housewives, retirees and students from all over Southern Maryland.

The group has come under the direction of Stanley “Joey” Hoopengardener, a retired choral teacher who taught for St. Mary’s County Public Schools for 33 years. Currently he is the Director of Music and Director of the Worship Commit-

Thursday, Nov. 27 Thanksgiving Day Charity Golf Tournament Wicomico Shores Call the Wicomico Shores Golf Course at 301884-4601 or 301-934-8191 for further information on this event and to reserve tee times for your group. Will waive greens and cart fees for patrons who contribute various non-perishable food and household items for charity. This year’s donations will be provided to the Catholic Community Services St. Clement’s Family Center food bank.

Friday, Nov. 28 Christmas in the Square Leonardtown Square- 5 p.m.

Holiday festivities, music, entertainment, sleigh rides, horse and carriage rides, live nativity, tree lighting and visits from Santa. For more information, call 301-475-9791.

Hospice of St. Mary’s First Annual Festival of Trees J.T. Daugherty Center- noon – 5 p.m This event is the kick off for this years “Tree of Light” ceremony. Fully decorated trees will be available for auction. Many vendors available for your holiday purchases. For more information, contact Hospice at 301-475-2023 or Nancy Glockner at 240-538-8076.

tee at the Lexington Park United Methodist Church, and he has toured with several Southern Maryland gospel groups, as well as adding his talents as the musical director for the St. Mary’s County Recreation and Parks summer stock productions, which have put on such shows as “Grease,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” and “Les Miserables.”

This gang of madrigal singers has also released their most recent album, “Spirit of Christmas,” which includes the group’s favorite selections from its Christmas 2007 program.

T h i s year’s program, “A Seasonal Greeting,” is a blend of traditional carols, seasonal hymns, and other festive songs, featuring a wide range of selections including “O Magnum Mysterium” by Morten Lauridsen, Haldel’s “And the Glory of the Lord” from “The Messiah,” and traditional Christmas songs such as the “Carol of the Bells,” “Silent Night,” and “I Saw Three Ships.”

This musical troupe will be at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Catholic Church in Leonardtown on December 1 at 7:30 pm to perform the first of several free Christmas shows, offering both the colorful costumes and the songs of yesteryear.

Than ksgiving Dance Holy Angels Church Hall- 8 p.m.

Sponsored by Holy Angels Sacred Heart School Alumni, to benefit Holy Angels Sacred Heart School.

The Geezers will be performing. Call Tammy Pilkerton at 301-904-4020 for more information.

Sunday, Nov. 30 Troop 1782 Christmas Tree Sale Mechanicsville Lions Club Pavilion- 10 a.m.

The Friends & Families of Boy Scout Troop 1782 will be selling Christmas trees to benefit the Troop.

Trees will be sold at the Mechanicsville Lions Club Pavilion in the 235 median across from Flora Corner. Trees of different variety and size will be offered. Trees will be sold till Christmas. Lot hours: M-F: 5:30 – 9 p.m.; Sat & Sun: 10 a.m.

–9 p.m. All profits go directly to the benefit of the boys of Troop 1782.

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St. Maries Musica Free Concert St. Aloysius Gonzaga Catholic Church, Leonardtown7:30 p.m.

This year’s program, “A Seasonal Greeting,” is an exciting blend of traditional carols, inspiring seasonal hymns, and other festive songs.

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The County Times

Section A - 10

Food Banks Continued from page A- dozens of packages of frozen meat, and filling boxes with loaves of Pepperidge Farm bread. Every morsel, canned, boxed, or frozen, would be distributed to food pantries across all three counties in Southern Maryland, to be given freely to families in need this holiday season.

As representatives of the pantries weighed their items and loaded their cars and trucks, Southern Maryland Food Bank manager Brenda DiCarlo smiled and laughed as she printed up their receipts and wished them well. She said Monday mornings are always her busiest times. “This morning we had ten pantries, and I’m expecting two more before we close today,” she said, adding that this year has been one of the bank’s busiest years so far, as the number of families requesting grocery assistance over the holidays has increased dramatically.

DiCarlo said that donations this year had not been quite as strong as in previous years, mostly due to the economy, but she was impressed and encouraged by the recent outpouring of support. “The food drives really came through for us…we’ve been really pleased with what we’ve received,” she said, adding that Leonardtown High School alone had donated nearly 3,000 pounds of food items to the pantry in the last week, and St. Mary’s college was doing food drives as well. “And a lot of businesses have been really supportive… the only downside to this increased support is with the amount of need, it’s staggering,” said DiCarlo, nodding to her walls of empty shelves, which only an hour ago had been full of food. “It goes out as quickly as it comes in.”

With Thanksgiving days away and the number of families requesting assistance up by as much as 30 to 50 percent in some areas, DiCarlo said that her food bank had not seen a single turkey pass through its doors this year.

“I was able to negotiate 18 cases for another pantry,” she explained, “but nobody’s interested in donating or giving them to me at a reduced price that I can afford.” DiCarlo said that this was typical, however, and others loading foodstuffs that morning confirmed that their pantries would typically work out deals with local supermarkets for products or vouchers to help families over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

Larry Rich from SMILE, an organization linking 10 churches operating food pantries across Southern Maryland and serving over 250 families a week, laughed when asked how many turkeys he had given out, saying that he had given away 350 turkeys, 150 chickens, and 40 gift cards on Saturday for families requesting help for Thanksgiving. With respect to the need for assistance,

Rich said, “it has grown a lot. It has probably gone up about 30 percent… there’s so many people that are in

trouble.”

For DiCarlo, surviving the holiday rush of donations and pick-ups has been demanding. “I’ve worked seven days a week the last five weeks,” she said, adding that a week before Christmas she expected to see the volume of donations drop, “and

there won’t be anything come New Years…once the season of giving is over, people just sort of push it to the back of their minds,” she said.

As the last of her latest rash of customers loaded the rest of their food items and drove away, DiCarlo waved and smiled warmly, saying that the flurry of activity this time of year was always something to be thankful for.

“It’s a fleeting moment when we have all of this, but it’s a good moment,” she said.

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“The Governor’s Office of Crime Conrol and Prevention funded this project under grant number EDUL-2007-1015. All points of view in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of any State or Federal agency.”