The County Times -- Aug. 27, 2009 by David Noss

www.somd.com

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Treasurer, Governor, Comptroller Cutting Millions and Spending Millions

Hiring Freeze Could Last 2 Years Story Page 4

Evergreen Highlighted as Schools Open for Year Story Page 19

Photo by Frank Marquart

Schools Waiting on Decision on Closed-Door Meetings Story Page 15

The County Times

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Thursday, August 27, 2009

Your Paper... Your Thoughts Are you concerned that you’ll lose health insurance benefits if the health care bill passes? Carrie Higgins, 22, of Piney Point (who declined to be photographed) said she was in favor of the legislation. “I’m not afraid of losing my health insurance. In fact, I’d be more afraid of what would happen if it didn’t pass. I think it’s about time we did something to get people affordable health care in this country.”

John Richardson, 45, a software engineer from California said he was more concerned that they might be rushing the legislation. “I’m afraid that perhaps there might be some unforeseen detrimental effects to the current system that have not been thoroughly analyzed, and I don’t think that there’s been any concise analytics done to determine what’s right and what’s wrong … I don’t think any organization, from the government to corporate America should put in place any policy that hasn’t been thought out and analyzed.”

Jeff Popielski, 48, (who declined to be photographed) said, “I’m not really worried about losing my insurance. The insurance I’ve got I get through my wife and she’s pretty much set. She works at the hospital so I don’t think it’ll ever go away … but you never know. If it ever did happen I’d be worried.”

County Wide Poll Not Sure 10%

30%

Yes 60%

While The County Times makes efforts to make our polls random and representative of the county’s diverse population, the poll results listed here should in no way be considered scientific results, and should not be viewed as such.

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

“It was an oversight … We try to be transparent. There’s nothing to hide. We’re elected by the people and we answer to the people so we’re not trying to education hide anything.”

Leonardtown’s Sydney Dishman Prepares For Kickoff Of Fall Sports Season

- Bill Mattingly, St. Mary’s Board of Education Chairman

Superintendent Michael Martirano greets students in teacher Tammy Biegner’s kindergarten class at Evergreen. SEE PAGE 19

Page 35

Weather

Watch

Crowds Protest on Hoyer’s Doorstep See Page 5

Stock Market

FOR WEEKLY STOCK MARKET CLOSING RESULTS, CHECK PAGE 10 IN MONEY

Sports

Budds Creek National MX Race becomes most demanding stop on the series so far. SEE PAGE 35

On T he Covers

ON THE FRONT

State Treasurer Nancy Kopp, left, Gov.Martin O’Malley and Comptroller Peter Franchot at Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting.

ON THE BACK

Goalkeeper Sadie Lowe stops a shot in practice for the Leonardtown High School Raiders soccer team.

Also Inside

4 County News 6 Town News 7 State News 8 Editorial/Opinion 10 Money 11 Defense and Military 13 Obituaries 15 Education 17 Crime and Punishment 18 On The Cover 20 Real Estate 23 History 24 Entertainment 25 Going On 26 Food 27 Wandering Minds 28 Games 31 Newsmakers 32 Community 35 Soccer 36 Bleachers 38 Blue Crabs 39 Sports News

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Burris’ Olde Towne Insurance Auto - Home - Business - Life Leonardtown & LaPlata Bus: (301) 475-3151 (301) 934-8437 Charles County www.danburris.com

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James Manning McKay - Founder Eric McKay -Associate Publisher..................................ericmckay@countytimes.net Tobie Pulliam - Office Manager..............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.net Sean Rice-Associate Editor.......................................................seanrice@countytimes.net Angie Stalcup - Graphic Artist.......................................angiestalcup@countytimes.net Andrea Shiell - Community Correspondent...........andreashiell@countytimes.net Chris Stevens - Sports Correspondent............................chrisstevens@countytimes.net Guy Leonard - Government Correspondent...................guyleonard@countytimes.net Matt Suite - Sales Representative..........................................mattsuite@countytimes.net Helen Uhler - Sales Representative....................................helenuhler@countytimes.net

The County Times

ews

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Thomas Edison once saved a boy from the path of an oncoming locomotive who was a station official's child. For his bravery, the boy's father taught Edison how to use the telegraph.

un Fact

Savich: Hiring Freeze Could Ways to Relieve Bridge Traffic Debated Last For Two Years By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Anticipating dire news about cuts in state aid this week, County Administrator John Savich has announced that about 10 currently vacant positions will not be filled due to a hiring freeze he initiated Aug. 20. Savich said that he expected that the $250 million in state cuts to the counties would take away $4 million to $5 million in revenue and that adhering to a strict hiring freeze of new employees would help to avoid employee furloughs. “I’m looking at it as a long-term freeze,” Savich told The County Times Monday. “This could be for at least two years. We want to avoid furloughs because that reduces services more.”

The vacancies currently range from administrative positions and land-use inspectors to corrections officers, Savich said, who added in his announcement letter to county staff that public safety and appointed positions in the Circuit Court and State’s Attorney’s Office would be exempt from the freeze. Anyone else hoping to win a county position will just have to wait. “I expect there to be very few exceptions,” Savich said. Savich said that the recent freeze had its genesis in discussions with the Board of County Commissioners last October, when the economic downturn had officials worried over expected impacts. “They left it to me to determine the severity of [the freeze],” Savich said. The county had been cautiously hiring employees in the past year, said Commissioner Daniel H. Raley (D-Great Mills), up until this hard hiring freeze. “We had a soft freeze in that he [Savich] was reviewing all positions as they became vacant,” Raley said, who approved of the current move by the county administrator. “We’ve just got to put everything on hold until we know what the state’s going to do,” Raley said. “The uncertainty sometimes is pretty difficult.”

Officials with the State Highway Administration say that they have some preliminary ideas to relieve traffic at the heavily congested intersection of Route 235 and Route 4 leading to and from the Thomas Johnson Bridge but they still need more time to test their assumptions. One relief measure may be to create and extend two merge lanes from northbound Route 235 bearing right onto Route 4 to relieve congestion, said Russell Anderson, Route 4 project manager. The current single merge lane there is too short, according to Anderson. “It’s causing the backup on Route 235,” he said. Anderson said that the highway administration was also considering three left-turn lanes at the major intersection from Route 4

or build an entirely new four-lane span and demolish the old bridge. State highway officials are also planning to widen the St. Mary’s side of Route 4 to relieve the traffic bottleneck. The state also said that reengineering the intersection as well as building the bridge would likely include taking property at a nearby shopping center and several mobile homes. Commissioner Daniel H. Raley (D-Great Mills) said he did not believe that even with short-term traffic relief projects that the situation at the intersection would get much better and that only a completed project would solve the problem. “That’s not going to help much except to get some of that traffic onto Route 4,” Raley said, adding that both St. Mary’s and Calvert county officials, state delegates and business leaders needed to push the state to ensure funding for every step of the project, which is still years away.

See related stories on page 18 . Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge

John Savich

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It is the only way to ensure that residents from both sides of the Patuxent River could get to work unimpeded, he said. “There aren’t a lot of county residents going across that bridge at four and five o’clock,” Raley said of the afternoon rush home. “Most of them are Calvert residents.” The project’s feasibility study stage has received $5.5 million in state funds as a start and the state is considering pedestrian amenities on any new bridge construction such as bicycle paths and shoulders to for vehicles to pull off. The current bridge, at only two lanes, has no shoulders.

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onto Route 235 heading south towards Naval Air Station Patuxent River for morning commuters. “That would help the morning traffic and move more traffic through more quickly,” Anderson told The County Times. Traffic problems at the intersection have grown steadily worse as more and more traffic comes across the Thomas Johnson Bridge from Calvert County to reach the base in Lexington Park. State Highway officials say that traffic relief is necessary at the intersection until an option is in play to either build a new parallel span south of the bridge to improve traffic flow

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St. Mary’s County government is seeking outstanding photos to attract visitors, and is asking residents to consider submitting outdoor recreation themed photos of kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking and sailing for the 2010 St. Mary’s County Destination Guide and other tourism materials. The photographer’s name will appear in the photo credit. To be considered for publication, photos are needed by Sept. 30. All photos submitted must be clear, sharp and properly exposed and digital images should be sent at the maximum resolution available. Please submit your photos and contact information to Rebecca Deprey, Tourism Coordinator, via email at Rebecca. Deprey@stmarysmd.com or via mail on CD to the following address: Rebecca Deprey, St. Mary’s County Division of Tourism, P.O. Box 653 Leonardtown, MD 20650. The Division of Tourism is also seeking a man and a woman between the ages of 25 and 35 to appear in the 2010 St. Mary’s County Destination Guide. The theme of the photos will be canoeing and kayaking and individuals should have an athletic physique and some paddling experience.

Those interested are asked to mail a photo (print or on cd) with contact information to the St. Mary’s County Division of Tourism, PO Box 653, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Photos must be received by Sept. 1. Photos may also be dropped off at the Tourism Office located on the second floor of the Potomac Building (former Governmental Center) at 23115 Leonard Hall Drive in Leonardtown. No emails will be accepted. Models must be available for local shoot on Saturday morning, Sept. 12. A small purebred toy breed dog such as a Yorkie, Chihuahua, Papillon or Toy Poodle is also needed for the photo shoot. The dog must be well-trained, able to sit on command, and be comfortable in a canoe on the water. Owner will be expected to handle the dog and must demonstrate handling ability and dog obedience during the shoot scheduled for Saturday morning, Sept. 12. For more information, please call Rebecca Deprey at 301-475-4200 ext. 1404. For more information on the Division of Tourism, please log on to www.stmarysmd.com.

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

ews Today’s Newsmaker In Brief On finishing the MetCom Task Force report by June of next year

On keeping MetCom relatively independent from county government

“We don’t have much time.”

The more you keep out of the “hands of government the better

Shelby Guazzo, task force and planning commission member

off you are, because eventually they will screw it up.” Del. John Wood (D-Dist. 29A)

MetCom Taskforce Starts Finding Its Way

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

A task force designed to study how the county’s water and sewer agency, the Metropolitan Commission, is run and present recommendations for improvement met for the first time Wednesday, chose two members as co-chairs and got busy learning about their new charge. “We need to get out hands around MetCom and its mission,” said Joe Densford, a Leonardtown attorney and co-chair of the task force. Mary Lynn Stone, a local realtor who shares leadership with Densford said that no one on the task force is an expert on the commission’s operations and needed to take time to see how it operated before deliberating over any potential changes in governance or improvements. MetCom was formed by state mandate more than 50 years

ago and has not been subject to review of its operations and governance structure since then. “What the county was 50 years ago is not what the county is today,” Stone told The County Times. “[MetCom] needs a reset.” Several members of the task force raised the question of development review process and how MetCom is involved with county growth — officials have identified bringing public water and sewer to areas serviced by wells and septic but still inside the development district as key to focusing growth there and guarding the county’s rural preservation district. The task force has directed its staff, from the Institute for Governmental Service with University of Maryland at College Park, to look into how other counties deliver water and sewer services to customers in coming meetings. The next meeting was set for Sept. 14 at 1p.m. The state bill passed in the recent legislative session in Annapolis formed the task force and requires a report and recom-

mendations by June of 2010. The task force consists of ten members, some of whom have served on the Board of County Commissioners in years past and currently serve on the county planning commission. Susan McNeill, also a planning commission member, said she wanted to know more about the financing aspect of MetCom. The agency has undertaken a project to upgrade the Marlay-Taylor wastewater treatment plant that services the Lexington Park Development District and is also looking to take over running the water and sewer utilities on Patuxent River Naval Air Station. “I’m very concerned about the financial situation, financial structure and other issues inside MetCom,” McNeil said. Densford said later that MetCom’s seeking to take over operation of base utilities fits in with the U.S. Navy’s policy of privatizing that function and that the agency should do what it can to help.

Protesters Crowd Hoyer’s District Office

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Looking back to the 1970s, Peggy McGahagan of Hollywood can remember taking to the streets and being politically active on behalf of the Democratic Party; now a Republican, she said health care reform was the one issue that could get her back into carrying a sign. She and about 120 other protesters rallied against Democratic-sponsored health care reform Aug. 22 at House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer’s district office in Waldorf, decrying the proposal before congress as edging towards national bankruptcy and eliminating consumer choice. “It’s about time normal people stood up,” McGahagan said, holding her sign. “We need to fix the system we have; we have the best system in the world.” Hoyer has said in meetings with physicians that Congress is committed to health care reform that would pay for itself in cost savings and would ensure choices remain for consumers. Hoyer will hold a town hall meetin about health care on Tuesday, Sept. 1, at North Point High School, 2500 Davis Road, Waldorf. The school building can accommodate up to 1,000 people. The parking lot opens at 5 p.m. and doors open at 6 p.m. A public option for health care offered by the federal government has recently come under fire by opponents who say that its pricing gives it an advantage that would drive private insurers out of the market. Supporters say that it provides a low-cost alternative for families. Andrew Langer, president of the Institute for Liberty, a Washington, D.C., based conservative think tank, said that the Waldorf protest was one of many that took place across the nation in a coordinated effort to protest what he called a biggovernment agenda.

“We felt it was important to hold ‘recess rallies’ on representatives’ home turf,” said Langer, who helped organize the event. “It was important to get regular folks from the district out.” Protesters came in from St. Mary’s, Charles and Prince George’s counties as well as Florida. One protester fired back at a recent nationwide editorial by Hoyer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that said “the drowning out of opposing views” during the health care debate was un-American. “I take offense at someone calling me unAmerican just because I’m voicing my opinion,” said Mike Syders of Mechanicsville. “I’m a veteran.” Stephanie Lundeberg, spokeswoman for Hoyer, said that the critical nature of health care made it a hot button issue, but Hoyer was still committed to passing reform. “We expect [the debate] to continue in the weeks and months ahead,” she said.

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County May Need Land For Treated Sewage Application By Guy Leonard Staff Writer The county government may have to eventually buy additional land in the Leonardtown area for a place to spray treated water from the town’s wastewater treatment plant, because the level of nutrients in the wastewater means it cannot be deposited into any nearby waters, according to a government official. County Administrator John Savich said that the county is seeking ways to ease some of the demands on the Van Wert Lane wastewater treatment plant, which has hit delays in its planned expansion and upgrading since

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Take a Guided Tour of Leonardtown

A walking tour of Leonardtown is now available on “Podcast.” CSM Professor last year because of the of History Chretien Guidry’s talk on the faltering economy. historical landmarks of downtown LeonIf the treatment ardtown is available for download through capacity issue goes CSM’s website. (www.csmd.edu/About/camunsolved, then the puses/leonardtown/building/WellnessCenter. county cannot prohtml.) ceed with a much From left are CSM Leonardtown Campus needed jail expanFitness Coordinator Judith Ferrara, CSM Pubsion in town. lic Safety Coordinator James Yates, Guidry, Spray irrigation CSM Adjunct History Professor Katherine using treated water Humphries and Maryland Center for from the plant is one Environmental Training Program of the alternatives that Coordinator Terri Jones. could relieve pressure on the facility and is the subject if soil there is suitable for of a recently commissioned spray irrigation. study. Such sites include the governHowever, the commissioners are not actively mental center near the Department of Land seeking to acquire any land Use and Growth Management and the rein the Leonardtown area at cently acquired Hayden Farm on Route 245 on the outskirts of town. this time, Savich said. Mattingly said that the spray irriga“It’s conceivable that we could need to acquire prop- tion option for the Van Wert facility could erty for that purpose,” he not only allow the jail expansion to move told The County Times. “But forward but perhaps also other projects in we’re not at a point to draw the Leonardtown area, such as schools and a new library planned for the Hayden Farm that conclusion yet.” Meanwhile, Commis- Property. Savich also said that another possibility sioner Thomas A. Mattingly (D-Leonardtown) said that would be for the county to partner with a priproperty that the county vate landowner who would agree to maintain owns in the Leonardtown vi- the property for irrigation purposes instead cinity will be studied to see of the county buying the land.

“We need to resolve that capacity issue for the detention center,” Savich said. Mattingly said that the Wilkinson family was interested in selling farmland to anyone willing to buy but that the county had not yet expressed an active interest. The County Times had become aware of rumors that the county was interested in buying the Wilkinson property. “We’re not negotiating with anybody about purchasing any land in the Leonardtown area,” Mattingly said. “They’re interested in selling land but not to any specific person I’m aware of.” Both Savich and Mattingly said that property owners from around the county often approach the county about possibly selling their land for a variety of uses, which could include parks and recreation.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

It’s tubby tIme Coalition Appealing Reactor Decision at Chesapeake Pet Resort & Day spa!

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

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net worth was about $4.7 billion, as well as letters of credit to insure that the reactor would be safely decommissioned. The estimated cost for decommissioning the reactor was $378 million, according to the decision. While the coalition opposes the construction of the reactor, the state Public Service Commission has signed off on a certificate of need for the reactor, and the project has received the

A coalition of environmental groups is appealing a decision that favors UniStar and Constellation Energy, the partnership seeking to build a third nuclear reactor at Calvert Cliffs. The decision dismissed allegations that the partnership could not afford to decommission the reactor once it reached the end of its service life. The Atomic Safety and Licensing Board, part of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, rendered its decision July 30 after deliberating the arguments of a coalition of groups that oppose the building of the reactor. Michael Mariotte, director of Nuclear Information and Resource Services, who said the appeal was recently filed with the nuclear regulatory body, said the regulations say that the cost of decommissioning a reactor cannot Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant be more than one-sixth of the total worth of the company. Since Constellation Energy has five other blessings of local and state officials. nuclear plants around the country that it will French companies that are not privately eventually have to decommission, its liabilities owned, but rather have foreign government inare closer to half of the company’s entire worth, fluence, have fronted large amounts of money Mariotte claimed. towards the project, Mariotte said. Mariotte admitted, however, that appealing “There’s a large amount of foreign involvethe board’s decision and winning with that argument in this project,” he said. ment would be difficult. Constellation Energy representatives said “We’ll see what happens,” he told The they would continue with the hearing process as County Times. ordered by the board in March. To counter the groups’ various claims, Uni“We continue to review the ASLB order Star, according to the decision, argued that it on this particular matter,” said Constellation would use ties with Constellation Energy, whose spokeswoman Maureen Brown.

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Delaware Gov. Tries to Preserve Sports Betting

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Delaware’s governor is looking at ways his state can preserve its plan to balance the books by offering sports wagering now that a court has ruled its proposal violates a 1992 federal ban on such bets. Before Monday’s unanimous decision by a federal appeals court, Delaware had planned to start taking bets next month. Attorneys who argued the case for the state appeared stunned, and Gov. Jack Markell said his administration is reviewing its legal options and planning to still offer limited wagering. “Obviously I’m disappointed, but the bottom line is that Delaware is still the only state east of the Mississippi that can offer this sports betting product on NFL games,” Markell said. Four states are exempt from the federal ban on sports betting. Delaware is exempt because it once ran an NFL sports lottery in 1976 that required parlay, or multiple bets, on at least three games. Speaking for a three-judge panel, Judge Theodore McKee said the betting plan as currently envisioned violates the federal ban. A written opinion explaining the judges’ reasoning will be issued at a later date. “I would have preferred the single-game bets with point spreads on more sports, but we didn’t get that,” added Markell, admitting that sports betting won’t be as big as it might have been. He had pushed for sports betting as a way to help resolve an unprecedented shortfall in state

tax revenues and balance the budget. Lawrence Hamermesh, a professor of corporate and business law at Widener University, said pursuing an appeal would be difficult. There was no split on the three-judge panel, and there is no broad impact from the ruling, he said. “This is a one-off situation,” said Hamermesh, who described the state’s position as “pretty weak.” The 1992 law restricts sports betting to the four states that met a deadline to sign up for it: Nevada, where Las Vegas sports books determine the odds for sporting events across the country; Delaware, Montana, and Oregon. Administration officials said they will later decide whether to appeal the ruling to the full court, or to the U.S. Supreme Court. The court heard nearly two hours of argument from attorneys regarding the denial of an injunction that would have prevented the betting from beginning with the start of football season in September. But instead of ruling on the injunction, the appeals court turned directly to the league’s claim that sports betting would violate the federal ban. “We were hoping the court would rule on the merits,” said Kenneth Nachbar, an attorney representing the NFL, NBA, NHL, NCAA and Major League Baseball. Nachbar and NCAA spokesman Erik Christianson both said they were pleased with the ruling.

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The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Reading Clubs a Success

The Board of Library Trustees and staff of the St. Mary’s County Library want to thank those who helped to make the library’s 2009 summer programs and reading clubs such a huge success. More than 11,000 children and their parents enjoyed story times, six different professional performers and three different summer reading clubs. This success would not have been possible without our many sponsors. Thanks goes to Target Corp., Bruster’s Ice Cream, Chick-Fil-A, Checker’s, Dunkin’ Donuts, Rita’s Italian Water Ice, SMECO, Friends of St. Mary’s County

Library, Board of Library Trustees, St. Mary’s County Arts Council, Baltimore Orioles and Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. We especially thank White Marsh Elementary School, Leonard Hall Recreation Center and Father Andrew White Catholic School for allowing us to use their facilities for the Charlotte Hall and Leonardtown libraries’ professional performances. Thanks to The County Times for helping us attract our record breaking crowds! Janis Cooker, Youth Coordinator St. Mary’s County Library

Cheaper to Maintain Old Car than Buy New One

There’s been a lot of talk about the Cash for Clunkers program, but for the majority of motorists, purchasing a new car is not an option. For many, their vehicle does not qualify as a “clunker” and for others, the cost of a new car is prohibitive, so keeping their current vehicle running efficiently is the sensible alternative. Those motorists who treat their vehicles as valuable investments and commit to regular vehicle maintenance end up saving a lot of money. In fact, according to Runzheimer International, the difference in the savings over a four-year period between keeping a car and buying a new one is over $10,000. Even with the Cash for Clunkers incentive, maintaining your current vehicle is still the best economic option. To help ensure reliability and safety, and extend vehicle life, the Car Care Council recommends these preventive maintenance steps: • Change the oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or per the owner’s manual. Periodic oil and filter changes keep your engine clean on the inside.

• Check the tire pressure at least monthly, including the spare. Your car’s tires affect its ride, handling, traction and safety. • Schedule a tune-up annually to optimize your car’s performance. A well-tuned engine delivers the best balance of power and fuel economy, and produces the lowest level of emissions. • Have the alignment checked at least annually. Potholes and other road conditions, as well as normal wear, can take their toll on your car’s steering and suspension. A wheel alignment reduces tire wear, improves fuel economy and handling, and increases driving enjoyment and safety. • Inspect the windshield wipers and lights on the car. Lights and wipers play a major role in safe driving, and they are normal wear items that need periodic replacement. To learn more, visit the Car Care Council’s Web site at www.carcare.org and check out the popular digital Car Care Guide. Rich White, Executive Director Car Care Council Bethesda, Md.

Thanks For ‘Operation Homefront’ Coverage

On Sunday, Aug. 16, our band, “The Bent Nickel Band,” had the distinct pleasure of playing for “Operation Homefront.” “Operation Homefront” is worldwide helping military and all their families. We, the members of the band – Tim Mossberg (vocals and rhythm guitar), Freddy Long (lead guitarist), Sherman Schmegelmeyer (bass guitar), Eddie Fuller (keyboards and vocals) and Roger Clark (drummer), would like to thank all

the people who came out and gave donations and especially The County Times, which covered this event and wonderful thank you to staff writer Andrea Shiell. You guys are the best. Thank you, County Times, for covering a very worthy event. Tim, Freddy, Sherman, Roger and Eddie The Bent Nickel Band

Editorial:

Cuts for Local Government, Cuts for Community College; More Spending For Land We maintain a strong opinion that good government, like most things in life, is a matter of setting priorities. Life offers many opportunities, not all of which we are able to take advantage of. Maryland taxpayers find themselves caught in the middle of a state government with financial challenges like we have never seen before, yet still spending like never before. With Maryland spending at a rate which is more than a billion dollars greater than the revenues coming in from taxes and fees, taxpayers are facing what could be another huge tax increase. The O’Malley administration is already responsible for the largest tax increase in Maryland’s history just three years ago; therefore he will wait until after the 2010 election to propose the next round of tax increases. Meanwhile, short term, one time cuts are being proposed that will get the government through day by day until the 2011 Legislative Session. On Wednesday, O’Malley presented a proposal to the Board of Public Works that would cut funding for local governments, local police, and local community colleges. St. Mary’s County will have to absorb significant cuts in funding. So much so that the county will put in place a hiring freeze, and is likely considering furloughs later this year which would mean cuts in pay to county employees. Despite the massive amounts of federal stimulus dollars that are flowing into state and local government coffers, Maryland and St. Mary’s County are spending at such a high rate that now it appears people’s jobs are at risk. While the Board of Public Works approved O’Malley’s cuts on Wednesday of $3.8 million for St. Mary’s County government and $100,000 in cuts for the College of Southern Maryland, $435,000 for St. Mary’s County Health

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E-mail letters to: opinion@countytimes.net

Department and $301,000 from police, at the same time they approved more than $2.6 million in additional spending for three farms in St. Mary’s County as part of the Agricultural Preservation and Rural Legacy programs. These three property owners will receive taxpayer dollars in the amounts of $1,153,236.51 for one farm under an agricultural preservation easement, $986,333.20 for second farm under the Rural Legacy program and $586,706.14 for a third farm also under the Rural Legacy program. These farms are not being purchased, most of the development rights are being purchased, and the owners retain the property and some development rights. Both of these are good programs that seek to preserve farmland and open space, not only in St. Mary’s but across the state. However, given the financial problems Maryland has, state government needs to stop spending on these types of programs until Maryland has gotten its financial house in order. We cannot have local governments forced to furlough workers; kids who must drop out of community colleges because they no longer can afford the tuition; and taxpayers facing another round of tax increases that will make our economy worse, while government is refusing to rein in spending on programs that are nice to have but are not essential during these difficult times. Elected officials need to step back for a while, take a deep breath and stop non-essential spending at least until we get our economy back on its feet. We know it means standing up to special interest groups who threaten retaliation if their programs are cut, but that is the problem today, very few politicians stand up for what is in the best interest of the average taxpayer over that of special interests.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

Speaks

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Obama Plan Leads To Rationed Health Care

President Obama talks about countries that “spend less” than the U.S. on health care, but what he doesn’t want to explain is how they ration care to do it. Take the United Kingdom, which is often praised for spending as little as half as much per capita on health care as the U.S. Credit for this cost containment goes in large part to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, or NICE. The British officials who established NICE in the late 1990s pitched it as a body that would ensure that the government-run National Health System used “best practices” in medicine. The Guardian reported in 1998: “Health ministers are setting up [NICE], designed to ensure that every treatment, operation, or medicine used is the proven best. It will root out under-performing doctors and useless treatments, spreading best practices everywhere.” What NICE has become in practice is a rationing board. As health costs have exploded in Britain as in most developed countries, NICE has become the heavy that reduces spending by limiting the treatments that 61 million citizens are allowed to receive through the NHS. For example: In March, NICE ruled against the use of two drugs, Lapatinib and Sutent, that prolong the life of those with certain forms of breast and stomach cancer. This followed on a 2008 ruling against drugs – including Sutent, which costs about $50,000 – that would help terminally ill kidney-cancer patients. In 2007, the board restricted access to two drugs for macular degeneration, a cause of blindness. The drug Macugen was blocked outright. The other, Lucentis, was limited to a particular category of individuals with the disease, restricting it to about one in five sufferers. Even then, the drug was only approved for use in one eye, meaning those lucky enough to get it would still go blind in the other. NICE has limited the use of Alzheimer’s drugs, including Aricept, for patients in the early stages of the disease. Doctors in the U.K. argued vociferously that the most effective way to slow the progress of the disease is to give drugs at the first sign of dementia. NICE ruled the drugs were not “cost effective” in early stages. Other NICE rulings include the rejection of Kineret, a drug for rheumatoid arthritis and Avonex, which reduces the relapse rate in patients with multiple sclerosis. Andrew Dillon, the chief executive of NICE, explained at the time: “When treatments are very expensive, we have to use them where they give the most benefit to patients.” The NICE board has also adopted a mathematical formula based on a “quality adjusted life year.” While the guidelines are

complex, NICE currently holds that, except in unusual cases, Britain cannot afford to spend more than about $22,000 to extend a life by six months. Why $22,000? It seems to be arbitrary, calculated mainly based on how much the government wants to spend on health care. That figure has remained fairly constant since NICE was established and doesn’t adjust for either overall or medical inflation. Proponents argue that such cost-benefit analysis has to figure into health-care decisions, and that any medical system rations care in some way. And it is true that U.S. private insurers also deny reimbursement for some kinds of care. The core issue is whether those decisions are going to be dicated by the brute force of politics (NICE) or by prices (a private insurance system). The logic of a health-care system dominated by government is that it always ends up with some version of a NICE board that makes these life-or-death treatment decisions. The Obama Administration’s new Council for Comparative Effectiveness Research currently lacks the authority of NICE. But over time, if the Obama plan passes and taxpayer costs inevitably soar, it could quickly gain it. Mr. Obama claims that he can expand subsidies for tens of millions of Americans, while saving money and improving the quality of care. It can’t possibly be done. The so-called “public option” will not be an option for long. If established, the public plan would soon be the only game in town. The government’s advantages in any faux market competition are clear: Governments dictate the prices they pay providers and regulate their competitors. Although details are still under discussion, there’s no question that it will be priced significantly below most private plans and quickly claim market share. In a widely cited study, the Lewin Group estimates that a public option mirroring Medicare payment levels and open to all employers would draw 119 million people from private carriers. That’s a two-thirds reduction in the number of people with private coverage. Eventually, says Lewin Group vice president John Sheils, “The private industry might just fizzle out altogether.” The inevitable result of this plan will be some version of a NICE board that will tell millions of Americans that they are too young, or too old, or too sick to be worth paying to care for. I ask that you reconsider your support for overhauling the entire health care system. Would you entrust your family’s lives, and your own, to a government run system? If not, then I rest my case. Cheryl E. Thomas Welcome, Md.

Entire State Of Maryland Reading The Same Book James McBride’s book, “Song Yet Sung” is the selected book for the 2009 One Maryland One Book state-wide community read. It is being read throughout Maryland during the months of September and October. Books and reader’s guides are available at Maryland public libraries. The book can also be downloaded from the library’s website. The public is invited to participate in any of the following book discussions: Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. at Leonardtown; Sept. 21 at 6 p.m. at Lexington Park; and Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. at Charlotte Hall. The Maryland Center for the Book, a program of the Maryland Humanities Council, and the Maryland public libraries are sponsoring this initiative.

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The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009 Children laugh about 400 times a day, while adults laugh on average only 15 times a day.

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Lexington Restaurant & Lounge Gearing to Open By Andrea Shiell Staff Writer

-7.47% 30.41% 32.55% -11.20% 1.29% 42.63% 13.71% 1.51% -0.96% 8.55%

Though the place was once home to The Roost, a former St. Mary’s staple, and then to Bombay Garden, an Indian restaurant that closed its doors a few months ago, there is a new restaurateur setting up shop at the site on

The new restaurant will feature Southernstyle American food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. “It’s going to be a family atmosphere, breakfast, lunch and dinner, reasonable rates, good home-style cooking … there’ll be daily specials, too … every day should be different as far as the daily specials,” he said.

Kiwanis Donates to DARE The Kiwanis Club of St. Mary’s County recently invited Sheriff Tim Cameron as a guest speaker to at member meeting and presented him with a donation to the Sheriff’s Office for $200 to be used for programs supporting children and families in St. Mary’s County. The funds will be used to support Camp

D.A.R.E., which is a day-camp for 5th and 6th grade students organized free of charge through the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. Campers are taught important health, safety, and decision-making lessons, while participating in arts and crafts, recreational competitions, and public safety-related demonstrations.

Photo by Andrea Shiell The Lexington Restaurant & Lounge going up at 21736 Great Mills Rd. in Lexington Park is going through the final phases of staffing and stocking. Owner John Greer is hoping to open for business by the second week of September.

Great Mills Road. “We took over probably a couple of months ago,” said new owner John Greer, who also owns The Lunchbox Diner in Charles County. “We came in and started putting our little spin on it, a little cosmetics here and there … and we ordered all-new restaurant equipment,” he said, inviting a deliveryman inside to begin unloading kitchen equipment.

Greer said he has been in the process of hiring new cooks and servers and says that he hopes to be done with final inspections and open for business by the second week in September. Lexington Restaurant & Lounge is located at 21736 Great Mills Road in Lexington Park. For more information, call 301-659-2017.

Great Mills Streetscape Breaks Ground Friday A groundbreaking ceremony to launch the Great Mills Road streetscaping project will take place Friday, Aug. 28, at 3 p.m. on the grounds of the Lexington Park United Methodist Church at the corner of Coral Drive and Great Mills Road. “This project is critical to the revitalization efforts underway in Lexington Park,” said Robin Finnacom, President/CEO of the Community Development Corporation, in a press release. “This $4.6 million project will reconstruct a heavily-used, 1.4 mile section from Coral Drive to the entrance of St. Mary’s Square.” The project will include the construction of brick-edged sidewalks, a median strip from Coral Drive to FDR Boulevard, the replacement of all sewer and water lines, landscaping and numerous other improvements to make Great Mills Road safer and more attractive for businesses, pedestrians and motorists. “There is dust in the air in Lexington Park, and it’s a good thing,” said County Commissioner President Jack Russell. “We are pleased

that the Maryland State Highway Administration is beginning this needed improvement. Great Mills Road was built in the 1940s and is now a major artery road into the Patuxent River Naval Air Station which employs 22,000.” Joining the commissioners will be Congressman Steny H. Hoyer; Delegate John L. Bohanan, Jr.; Capt. Andrew Macyko, Commanding Officer, Patuxent River Naval Air Station; Acting Transportation Secretary Beverley K. Swaim-Staley and Lee Starkloff, SHA District Engineer for District 5. All interested persons are invited to attend the ceremonial groundbreaking which will be videotaped and broadcast on County Government Channel 95. For a copy of the current weekly Channel 95 schedule, log on to www. stmarysmd.com or call the Public Information Office at 301-475-4200, x1340. The Great Mills Road Streetscape Project can be viewed by appointment by calling the Community Development Corporation at 240725-5786.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

Two Local Men Complete First Phase Of Officer Candidate School

Brian Fischer, of Leonardtown, and Jody Warner, of Lexington Park, joined candidates from 34 states to begin Phase 1 of Officer Candidate School at Camp Fretterd Military Reservation in Reisterstown, Md. This two-week phase is the first of three phases toward the goal of becoming a Second Lieutenant in the Army National Guard. Both Warner and Fischer’s path to becoming officers is through the Traditional Reserve Component OCS. After the completion of phase 1, they will train one weekend a month for the next year to complete phase 2 and then a two-week phase 3 before being commissioned Second Lieutenants. Some of the candidates attending the two-week phase 1 have chosen the Accelerated Reserve Component OCS. After the completion of phase 1 they will immediately attend a three-week phase 2 and then a two-week phase 3. Upon successful completion of all phases, they will receive their commissions Jody Warner at the end of September. “The purpose of this is to train and tional Guard on the OCS Enlistment Option. develop leaders for the National Guard and This option allows qualified applicants the opUnited States Military,” said Lt. Col. Jeffrey portunity to attend OCS after completing Army Basic Training. The program of instruction included physical tests, training in areas like Risk Management, Combat Orders, Training Management and Land Navigation. The candidates were also evaluated whenever they were placed in a leadership position throughout the two weeks. Candidate Fischer explained the most challenging part of OCS was “being away from family.” The demanding training at OCS is not for everyone. OCS Phase 1 began with 193 candidates on July 31 and ended with 153 candidates on Aug. 15. “It’s a challenging leadership environment, this is not basic training, there is a pretty high attrition rate,” said Maj. Mayb Sersland, the company commander of OCS Phase 1. “OCS is an excellent opportunity to become a leader and serve my counBrian Fischer try,” Fischer said. Knepshield, commander of the OCS Battalion. For more information on the Army Na“We are not just looking for candidates who tional Guard or Officer Candidate School, meet the minimal requirements but who are call 410-526-3793. also mentally and physically fit soldiers who will be good leaders.” Editor’s note: the preceding article was Officer Candidate School candidates fall written by Brielle Fisher, a senior at New High into two categories. Warner is a prior service School and a student journalist for the Marycandidate who was in the Army for six years land Army National Guard. prior to joining the Maryland Army National Guard. Fischer joined the Maryland Army Na-

Sabre Systems Wins Health Data Contract

Sabre Systems, based in Warminster, Pa., with two offices in Lexington Park, recently won a contract providing support to the Navy Marine Corps Public Health Center. Sabre will serve as the prime contractor in this effort and, in this capacity, will provide database administration and technical support required to facilitate the overall operational objectives of the NMCPHC’s Force Health Protection mission. The work includes the following expertise: database administrator and senior and junior programmers responsible for developing and

managing data packages using SQL and SAS database programming languages; and technical writer responsible for the review, research and writing of technical manuscripts for Epidemiology Data Center products and services. The work will be performed at the Naval Hospital in Portsmouth, Va., and will span one base year plus one option year. Founded in 1989, Sabre Systems is a professional services company that provides worldwide technology, scientific and management solutions to a cross section of government and commercial clients.

A short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter has become the first F-35 to complete an aerial refueling test using the Navy- and Marine Corps-style probe-anddrogue refueling system. The successful mission on Aug. 13 is the first in a short series of tests that will clear the STOVL F-35B variant for extended-range flights, particularly to its primary test site at Naval Air Station Patuxent River. “The F-35 program is on the cusp of a tremendous expansion in flight test as a large number of new aircraft enter the test fleet this year and early next year,” said Dan Crowley, Lockheed Martin executive vice president and F-35 program general manager. “This milestone will help ensure that we fill the pipeline between Fort Worth and Pax River with F-35s and maintain our flight-test tempo.” The refueling mission also marked the first time a Lockheed Martin KC-130 tanker has been used to refuel an F-35. Previous refueling missions with the F-35A conventional takeoff and landing variant were accomplished with a KC-135 tanker. To date, the first F-35A has received approximately 110,000 pounds of fuel during aerial refuelings.

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The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Holly Corrine Stewart Brunts, 48

Holly Corrine Stewart Brunts, 48, of Callaway, MD and formerly Pt. Pleasant, NJ died August 21, 2009 at Calvert Memorial Hospital. Born December 20, 1960 in Pt. Pleasant, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Richard Nelson and Corrine Elaine Stewart. She was the loving wife of Gary Andrew Brunts whom she married in Virginia Beach, VA. She is also survived by her sons; Brian Andrew Brunts and Richard Martin Brunts, both of Callaway, MD. She is also survived by her siblings: Cheryl Lynn Miliukas of Jacksonville, FL, Renee Elizabeth Borowsky of Barnegat, NJ and Susan Louise Wilson of Orange Park, FL as well as numerous nieces and nephews in Chesterfield and Oakville, MO and her friends and neighbors in St. Mary’s County, MD. She was preceded in death by her brother Richard Martin Stewart. Holly moved to St. Mary’s County in 1991 from Virginia Beach, VA and was a homemaker. She was a long time supporter of Little Flower School, especially the bingo. The family received friends on Monday, August 24, 2009 from 5:00- 8:00 PM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD where prayers were said at 7:00 PM. Pallbearers were Mark Brunts, Brian Brunts, Richard Brunts, Bruce Brunts, William Denver and Gary Knott. Honorary pallbearers were Guy Combs, William Midgett and Robert Carter. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at 10:30 AM in Holy Face Catholic Church with Fr. Tom Gude officiating. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.

Letha Mandy Dement, 82 Letha Mandy Dement, 82 of Callaway, MD, died on August 23, 2009 at St. Mary’s Nursing Center. Born April 5, 1927 in Coeburn, VA, she was the daugh-

ter of the late Horace and Della Carter Ward. Mrs. Dement was a homemaker; she devoted her life to raising her family. She could cook like there was no tomorrow. Letha loved her jewelry and made many necklaces and bracelets which she gave away to family and friends. She also loved her baby dolls and took care of them like they were live babies. Letha also loved to wear hats, embroidering, playing bingo, going to church activities, dancing and going to yard sales. In addition to her parents Mrs. Dement was preceded in death by her husband Harry W. Dement, daughter Wanda L. Norris and 4 siblings. She is survived by her children; Margaret R. Backhurst of Corpus Christie, TX, Joyce A. Jones of Lexington Park, MD, Hazel I. Starr of Great Mills, MD and Stewart W. Dement of Mechanicsville, MD, one sister Poda Ward of Loveville, MD, 4 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, two step-granddaughters, one step-grandson and one stepgreat grandson. Family received friends for Letha’s Life Celebration on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD where prayers were recited at 7 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2009 at 10 a.m. in St. George’s Episcopal Church, Valley Lee, MD with Reverend Greg Syler officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Lionel Blackwell, David Dement, Leon Dement, Jr., Michael Langley, Paul Starr, Jr. and Ronald Ward. Memorial contributions may be made to St. George’s Episcopal Church, P.O. 30, Valley Lee, MD 20692 and/or St. Mary’s Nursing Center, 21585 Peabody Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650 Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements provided by Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.

The County Times

formerly of Mechanicsville, MD died August 20, 2009 at St. Mary’s Hospital. Born January 20, 1955 in Leonardtown, MD he was the son of Doris Mae Williams of Old Town, FL and the late John Dent Heard. He is also survived by his daughters; Donna Spalding of Hollywood, MD, Karen Jones of Mechanicsville, MD, Tammy Dean and Jenny Buckler, both of Springfield, WV; his siblings; John Heard of Lexington Park, MD, Sherry Himes of Mechanicsville, MD, Teri Smith of Volga, WV and Cynthia Istvan of Hughesville, MD as well as thirteen grandchildren. A graduate of State of Washington High School “Class of 1977”, Donnie joined the U.S. Army and served for 18 years. The family received friends at the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD on August 25, 2009. Pallbearers were Leroy Williams, John Heard, Francis Istvan Jr., Jasen Wade, Steve Himes and Bobbie Demarr. Condolences to the family may be left at www.mgf h. com. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.

Dorothy Marie Kotz, 68 Dorothy Marie Kotz, 68 of Hollywood, MD died August 18, 2009 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonardtown, MD. Born November 11, 1940 in Jefferson County, TX, she was the daughter of the late, Leo H. and Dorothy P. Nolte Kotz, Jr. Ms. Kotz was a Farmhand. Dottie is survived by one brother Charles S. Kotz of Nome, TX. Family received friends on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD, where a Memorial Service was held at 5:30 p.m. Interment was private. Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements provided by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.

Don O’Neal, 66

Donald “Donnie” W. Heard, 54 Donald “Donnie” W. Heard, 54, of Leonardtown, MD and

Don O’Neal, 66, of Great Mills, MD died August 18, 2009

at home in the presence of his family. Born in Zittlestown, MD on June 23, 1943, he was the son of Fred and Margaret O’Neal and grew up in Boonsboro, MD. He graduated from Boonsboro High School and Frostburg College before beginning a 37-year career with the St. Mary’s Public School System. With the St. Mary’s County Public School System he held numerous positions at all three high schools and at central offices including mathematics teacher, guidance counselor, assistant principal, and testing coordinator. His legacy includes not only his students, but institutional improvements including vocational education and career centers. In addition to education, Don was tireless in his support of teacher and community organizations. He served as the President of the Education Association of St. Mary’s County in the early 1970s. More recently he served as President of St. Mary’s County Public Schools Retirees Association. He was the Regional Director for Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s Counties for Maryland State Retired Public School Personnel. He also supported throughout his life the Optimist Club and The Lions Club. He was also active in County government and politics through his roles with the Republican Party, including President of the Republican Central Committee. He was a member of the St. Mary’s County Board of Elections. Though passionate about these roles, nothing occupied his heart more than his family. Don is survived by his wife of 37 years, Vicki Jean, his son, Kristofor Todd, Kristofor’s wife Melissa Parker, and their two sons, Caleb Parker and Beckett Henry, and his son Michael Keith and his wife Stephanie Gavilan, and their two sons, Matthew Gavilan and Jack Liam. Don is also survived by his 4 brothers and sisters, Fred Junior and John Charles and Myrtle Virginia Snow and Patricia O’Neal Pattison. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Margaret. Family received friends for Don’s Life Celebration on Thursday, August 20, 2009 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD. A funeral service was held on Friday, August 21, 2009 at the St. Paul’s Methodist Church, , 22550 Point Lookout Road, Leonardtown, MD at 11:00 a.m. Don was interred in a private service in Boonsboro, MD on Saturday, August 22, 2009. Pallbearers were Carl Lancaster, Tom Leonard, Don Brown, Sal Raspa, Kristofor O’Neal and Michael O’Neal. Honorary pallbearers were Charlie Purcell, Dan Grosso, John O’Neal and John Armentrout. In lieu of f lowers, memorial

contributions may be made to the Lexington Park Lions Club Scholarship c/o Jess Davis 23293 By the Mill RD, California, MD 20619.

Robert “Bob” Henry Remmel, 79

Robert “Bob” Henry Remmel, 79, of Hollywood, MD died August 19, 2009 at St. Mary’s Hospital of complications from a lung condition. Born October 17, 1929 in Conneaut, OH, he was the son of the late Edward Henry and Ruth Agnes O’Donnell Remmel and his stepmother, the late Deloris Remmel. He was the gentle loving husband of Joyce Lorraine Joy Remmel, whom he married on June 11, 1950 in Hollywood Methodist Church. He is also survived by his children; Barry Nelson Remmel and his wife Sheryl of Ponce de Leon, FL and Gayle Remmel Bonasorte and her husband Joe of Elkridge, MD; his brothers, Thomas Remmel of OH, Ronald Potter of OH and his sister Kathleen Sanford of OH. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Lois Tink (Roland) of TX, Austin Remmel (Molly) of Annapolis, MD, Rebecca Windsor (Joey) of Dameron, MD, Corey Bonasorte of Washington, DC and Douglas Remmel of FL as well as his great-grandchildren, Amaya Remmel, Mackenzie Windsor, Lilly Remmel, Alexander Tink and Joshua Tink. He was preceded in death by his brother William Remmel and his sister Yvonne Matter. A long time resident of St. Mary’s County, Bob was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was unabashedly proud to be three things: an American, a Marine and a Washington Redskin Fan. Bob joined the Marines in 1948, and as a member of the First Marine Division, he saw combat during operations around Inchon and Seoul, and the particularly brutal battle waged at the Chosin Reservoir in subzero temperatures. He was one of the thousand of Marines who were treated for frostbite and would carry the physical effects of that for the rest of his life. After the war, he worked for

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Continued the famous Nickel Plate Railroad in Ohio until 1958 and then moved his family to St. Mary’s County and Hollywood where he had met his future wife to be in 1949 while stationed with a Marine Detachment at Paxtuxent River. He joined Steuart Petroleum as a Tankerman in 1958, assisting the movement of much needed petroleum products up and down the East Coast, and worked there until he retired in 1991. Mr. Remmel loved to travel. As his children were growing, he took particular delight in hooking his truck up to a travel trailer and whisking his family off on vacations across the country— Maine, Florida, Ohio, West Virginia and several trips out West. When his grandchildren came along, the trailer was regularly parked next to Kings Dominion. When the kids were grown, he set of with his wife for Hawaii, California, Tennessee and any number of bus trips to “nearby” sites like New York. Bob and his family joined the Hollywood United Methodist Church soon after their arrival in Hollywood and remained life-long members. He was also a member of the Thomas J. Shryock Masonic Lodge and their women’s affiliate, the Julia Halla OES 107 and the American

Legion. Every Tuesday was “golf day” for the past several years. He had great friendships with his dear golf partners in the Tim O’Brien Men’s Golf League at Chesapeake Hills. The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 27, 2009 from 4:00-8:00 PM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD where prayers will be said at 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 28, 2009 at 10:00 AM in Hollywood United Methodist Church, Hollywood, MD with Rev. Sheldon Reese officiating. Interment will follow in Joy Chapel Cemetery, Hollywood, MD. Pallbearers will be Barry Remmel, Douglas Remmel, Austin Remmel, Joe Bonasorte, Corey Bonasorte and Joey Windsor. Contributions may be left to Hollywood United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 100, Hollywood, MD 20636, Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 79, Hollywood, MD 20636, or Hollywood Volunteer Fire Dept., P.O. Box 7, Hollywood, MD 20636. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.

Gary Richard Thompson 57

Gary Richard Thompson 57, SMSGT US Air Force (Ret), of Piney Point, MD died August 23, 2009 at his home. Born February 2, 1952 in Leonardtown Maryland, he was the son of the late Bernard Floyd Thompson and Helena (Swann) Thompson. He is survived by his wife Linda Sue Mitchell Thompson, one daughter; Jessica Leigh Thompson of California, one sister: Mary Barbara (Mimi) Evans of Venice, Florida, three

Caring for the Past Planning for the Future

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brothers; Michael Joseph Thompson and John Floyd Thompson both of Panama City, Florida and Timothy Irwin Bennett of Clements, MD. He is also survived by one grandchild. He was predeceased by one step-son Bobby Earl Winegeart in addition to his parents. Relatives and friends are invited to Gary’s Life Celebration in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD on Friday, August 28, 2009 from 10 to 11:00 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m., with Monsignor Karl A. Chimiak, pastor of St. George’s Catholic Church, Valley, Lee, MD officiating. Interment will follow in St. George’s Cemetery, St. George Island, MD. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Second District Volunteer Fire & Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 1, Valley Lee, MD 20692. Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.

Susan Williams, 62 Susan Williams, 62, of Great Mills, MD died August 23, 2009 in Leonardtown, MD. Born June 26, 1947 in East Chicago, IN, she was the daughter of the late T.C. Wallace, Sr. and Katherine L. (Johnson) Wallace. Susan is survived by her brother, T.C.Wallace, Jr. of Washington Township, MI. A full obituary will appear at a later date. Family will receive friends on Saturday, August 29, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. in the Brinsfield Funeral Home Chapel by Reverend Roderick McClanahan. Interment will be in the Quantico National Cemetery, Triangle, VA on Tuesday, September 1, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. Condolences to the family may be made www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.

Ann (Yoder) Longmore. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret (Jaynes) Yoder. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army Air Force as f light engineer from 1941 to his honorable discharge at the end of the war. He worked with the Crooksville China Company, the New York Central Railroad, and the Ohio Power Company before returning to active duty in the United States Air Force in 1951. He was a veteran of the Korean Conf lict and the Vietnam War. He retired in 1970 at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, and worked with the St. Mary’s County Board of Education Maintenance Department. He retired from the Maintenance Department in 1985. He is survived by his children, Dana (Jess) Davis, Rose Marie (Charles) Beitzell, Bob Martin, Dean (Peggy) Martin, and a near-as daughter, Mary Springstead. He has thirteen grandchildren and a passel of great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly. Visitation was Thursday, August 20, 2009 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. A graveside service was held on Friday, August 21, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. in Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, MD. In lieu of f lowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.

Rodney Lee Yoder, 87 Rodney Lee Yoder, age 87, of California, MD, died at his home on Monday, August 17, 2009, following a long battle with congestive heart failure and diabetes. The son of a coal miner, he was born in Crooksville, OH, to Daniel and Katie (Poland) Yoder. He was the third of six children: Mary Francis Yoder (deceased), Ilber Ellis Yoder (deceased), Donna Lucile (Yoder) Morrison, Daniel Yoder Jr., and Barbara

To Place A Memorial Please Call: 301-373-4125

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

un Fact

There are more than 40 million Americans that have "chronic halitosis," which is bad breath that never goes away.

School Board Waits For Attorney General’s Ruling

By Andrea Shiell and Virginia Terhune Staff Writers

Members of the county Board of Education are waiting for a ruling from the state Attorney General on whether they can continue to go behind closed doors to hear updates from the superintendent about adminstrative issues. The board asked for the opinion after The Enterprise newspaper questioned whether such updates, which the school system considers an “administrative function”, is allowed under the St. Mary’s County Open Meetings Act, which does not specifically mention them. Administrative function, however, is allowed under the state Open Meetings Act as long as board members do not deliberate and make a decision. The state act also says that the topics of discussion must be reflected in minutes of the meeting, a procedure the board was not following until now. Board members use the time to hear about such issues as complaints from parents, a rumor about a student bringing a gun to school, bus accidents, weather warnings and other matters, according to the Enterprise. When asked if he expected the county to amend its open meetings law to include rules governing administrative function sessions, Board of Education Chair Bill Mattingly said he would expect them to leave it alone. “I’m anxiously awaiting the determination from the Attorney

General’s office,” he said. “I’m in favor of [administrative function] because it allows us to interact with the superintendent on issues that might come up, and honestly he gives us a heads up on things … we’re not deliberating, and we’re certainly not trying to hide anything. It’s just a tool to run this business of educating children and taking care of our staff … but if the Attorney General says we can’t then we won’t.” Mattingly went on to say that the board had not released minutes for the topics discussed in administrative functions in the past. “It was an oversight. Someone on the staff admitted it was an oversight and it’s been corrected, so we will [post minutes] from now on,” he said. “We try to be transparent. There’s nothing to hide. We’re elected by the people and we answer to the people so we’re not trying to hide anything.” School Superintendent Michael Martirano echoed Mattingly’s statements in a later interview. “We want a ruling on it. The administrative function is covered in state law, and not specifically in St. Mary’s … so we’ll follow the law. It’s just a matter of interpretation and we’ll have to see … St. Mary’s county has a more restrictive open meetings law than the state,” he said, explaining that if the Attorney General ruled against administrative function, “it will impede my ability to communicate with the board and we’ll have to figure out how to do that in other ways.”

Evening High School Classes Set to Start St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ Evening High School will begin classes for the first semester of the 2009-2010 school year on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2009. Registration for the first semester will be on Sept. 8, 9 and 10, from 3:45 to 7 p.m. in the Evening High School office in Area F of Leonardtown High School. Courses are only open to active students in St. Mary’s County Public Schools. The fee is $75 per course, per semester. Regularly scheduled classes will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:45-5:40 p.m. or 5:45-7:40 p.m., at Leonardtown High School. Students may register for up to four classes per semester. Students should meet with their high school guidance counselors prior to registration. Enrollment numbers for courses will determine whether or not the course is offered. Information pertaining to Evening High School is located on the SMCPS Web site at www.smcps.org under the link “Our Schools” and is available by calling 301-475-5511, ext. 139.

A father hugs his daughter good bye on the first day of school.

Know

In The

Photo by Frank Marquart

Education

Graduates Offered Record Amount of Scholarship Money

Maryland’s high school class of 2009 is in a class by itself when it comes to scholarship money, according to a statement released by the Maryland State Department of Education. Graduating seniors this past year were offered a record $802 million in scholarship funding to continue their pursuit of knowledge at the college of their choice, according to a new MSDE survey. That compared to $576 million last year and less than $500 million in 2007. The survey found that 17,860 out of a total public high school graduating class of 53,494 received scholarship offers, or about one in three. The scholarships included more than 250 National Merit Finalists and 450 scholarship offers from Ivy League institutions. Maryland is ranked number one in the nation in the percentage of high schools offering and students taking college-level courses in a recent Newsweek analysis. Maryland also ranks first in the nation in the percentage of high school students who earn a college mastery score on at least one Advanced Placement exam, according to the College Board.

St. Mary’s College Ranked Best Liberal Arts College

St. Mary’s College of Maryland ranks first among public traditional liberal arts colleges in the nation in this week’s edition of U. S. News and World Report magazine, receiving the highest ranking as one of the top five public liberal arts college and placing 92nd in the overall liberal arts colleges ranking, which includes private schools. The magazine cited the college’s increased competitive acceptance rates. These rates are reflected by improved SAT scores and an increase in the percentage of high school seniors ranking in the top 10 percent of their class. “The U.S. News and World Report ranking is significant,” said Tom Botzman, vice president of business and finance at St. Mary’s College. “We are particularly proud of the increase in high school students at the top of their classes and in overall SAT scores.” The college was judged one of the best of the 266 liberal arts colleges in the nation, of which most are private. The only other public institutions to rank higher than St. Mary’s College were some of the nation’s military academies: the U.S. Military Academy (N.Y.), the U.S. Naval Academy (Md.), and the Virginia Military Institute. Using a proprietary methodology, the annual U. S. News & World Report rankings represent a comprehensive look at how schools compare. Methodology is based on 15 widely accepted indicators of excellence, and help consumers evaluate and compare data compiled from more than 1,400 accredited colleges and universities. An online and video guide to the report is available on the Web site www.usnews.com.

Design Plans To Be Approved For Leonardtown Middle Elevation By Andrea Shiell Staff Writer The school board was expected to approve the redesign for the front of Leonardtown Middle School at its meeting Wednesday evening, Aug. 26. At its meeting on June 24, 2009, the board approved the drawings for the Leonardtown Middle School project subject to a resubmission of the front elevation including the canopy. The board requested that the front elevation of Leonardtown Middle School include features of Leonardtown High School and the Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center. “We’re hoping to bid the project out in January for work by February 2010,” said Chief Operating Officer Bradley Clements, who explained that the limited renovation was needed to upgrade the facility. “It’s going to be around $14 million for the construction part of it,” he said, explaining that the renovation project would probably take two years to complete.

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Leonardtown Campus Wellness and Aquatics Center

O P E N I N G FA L L 2 010

The 32,000-square-foot Wellness and Aquatics Center will be the fourth building on the Leonardtown Campus. This new center will be home to two swimming pools — the rst pool being, a six-lane, 25-yard, lap pool and the second pool is a zero-depth-entry therapy pool. The center will also have a variety of classroom spaces for aerobics and other tness activities, as well as an outdoor meditation garden for Tai Chi and yoga. In addition, the facility will have specialized tness assessment rooms for individualized consultations and tness analyses.

Coming Soon •Tai Chi, Yoga and Kickboxing

•Nutrition and Weight Management

•Indoor Group Cycling

•Fitness Assessments

•Circuit Training

•Body Composition Analysis

•Water Aerobics

•Cardiovascular Equipment

•Lifeguard Training

•Selectorized Machines and Free Weights

•American Red Cross Swim Instruction

•Metabolic Testing

•Therapy Pool

•and Much More!

•Open Swim and Pool Memberships

www.csmd.edu/Leonardtown

Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

Two Charged In Liquor Store Beating By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Two men have been charged with firstand second-degree assault for plotting and then carrying out an assault that left the victim with a forehead laceration and severe bleeding, all because the victim began dating the ex-girlfriend of one of the defendants, police allege. The man accused of hitting the defendant with a pipe, Carroll Leon Alvey, 20, of Lexington Park, remains incarcerated at the county detention center, while his alleged accomplice, James Walter Wheeler, 20, of Dameron, has been released on bond. Alvey was angered by his ex-girlfriend’s new relationship with the victim, Matthew Brian Thompson, and wanted to assault him, according to charging documents filed in District Court. Charging documents revealed that Thompson, who worked at Cook’s Liquor Store in Park Hall and lived in a nearby mobile home park, received two calls from someone claiming to be an old friend who wanted to go skateboarding with him the night of Aug. 20. During the second call, the caller told Thompson to meet them at the store, according to court papers. While Thompson was waiting at the street curb, a masked assailant drove up in a red vehicle, got out and struck Thompson in the head. Thompson, despite being struck, was

able to run through the woods to his mobile home and call for help; police found him with a large laceration on this forehead that was bleeding profusely. Thompson named his girlfriend’s exboyfriend as the only person he knew of who might want to harm him; police later found Alvey and Wheeler at a residence on St. Jerome’s Neck Road in Dameron and questioned them about the assault, charging documents stated. Wheeler admitted to driving Alvey to the liquor store with the full knowledge that it was Alvey’s intent to assault Thompson, charging documents stated, and said that Alvey had started drinking over his anger with the victim and ex-girlfriend. Wheeler said that Alvey was the one who made the two calls to Cook’s store using his girlfriend’s cell phone number to trick Thompson into coming back to the store for the alleged attack. Both men used ski masks to hide their identity, as well as tape and gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints on any potential evidence, Wheeler alleged in charging documents. The gloves and masks were recovered in the stove of the home in Dameron where both defendants were questioned and arrested by deputies, charging documents stated. Alvey said the weapon he used was a wooden stick about two feet long and onehalf inch in diameter.

Owings Man Charged With Rape By Guy Leonard Staff Writer St. Mary’s County investigators have charged a Calvert County man with second-degree rape and child abuse for alleged acts committed against a 7-year-old girl he had close contact with about eight years ago. According to charging documents filed against Brian Weese, 41, of Owings, he engaged in numerous illicit sex acts with the child over the course of two years from 2001 to 2002. The investigation into Weese’s alleged acts started back in May, police reports stated, when county Child Protective Services received complaints of sexual abuse between Weese and the victim, now 14 years old. Court papers reveal that the victim

accused Weese of forcing her to perform numerous sex acts on Weese during the two-year time period until the victim was 9 years old. When a detective with the county’s Bureau of Criminal Investigations interviewed Weese in Calvert County, charging documents stated, he waived his Miranda rights and admitted that he had made the victim to perform various sex acts on him. He also admitted to touching her private area. Weese was arrested Tuesday and charged with second-degree and thirddegree sexual offense along with the child abuse and rape counts. Weese was released on bond Tuesday after a bail review, according to court documents, but was ordered to stay away from the victim.

Two Charged In Thefts From Target Store On August 25, 2009 at 3:02 P.M. deputies responded to the Target store in California for a report of a theft. Investigation revealed on August 24, 2009 two subjects entered the store and removed several global positioning system units from a display, placed them in a shopping cart and exited the store without rendering payment for the items. The items were valued at $1,531.. On August 25, 2009 the same subjects entered the store and removed two televisions and four cell phones, valued at $647.93, from

a display, placed them in a cart and exited the store. Security personnel observed the two subjects exiting the store and notified police. The suspects were subsequently detained by responding deputies in the parking lot. Donald C. Nealon, 35, of Lexington Park and James A. Frazier, 25, of Clinton were placed under arrest, charged with two counts of theft over $500 and incarcerated in the county detention center pending a hearing before the District Court Commissioner

Crime&

Punishment Briefs

Police: Man Endangered Child On Aug. 20, 2009, deputies responded to the area of Mervell Dean Road and Hidden View Lane in Hollywood for a report of a disturbance on the side of the road. Investigation revealed Philip Arthur Stamey, 31, of Hollywood, was in a verbal altercation that escalated. Stamey allegedly smashed the rear window of his vehicle causing glass to shatter on to a one-year-old male passenger in the vehicle who was in the care and custody of Stamey. Stamey was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment and child abuse.

Deputies Make Disorderly Conduct Arrest On Aug. 20, 2009, deputies responded to Lexwood Court in Lexington Park for a report of a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, deputies contacted Kevin Christopher Johnson Jr., 20, of Lexington Park. Johnson was upset and yelling. Deputies asked Johnson several times to calm down and stop yelling, which he allegedly refused to do. Johnson’s conduct caused neighbors to look out their windows to see what was going on. Deputies again asked Johnson to stop yelling and he still refused. Johnson was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.

Vice Detectives Make Arrests Vice/Narcotics detectives began an investigation into Peter John Antonovich, 58, of Valley Lee, for allegedly being in possession of marijuana as well as manufacturing it. As the investigation progressed, a search and seizure warrant was obtained and executed. Marijuana was located growing outside the home, and a quantity of marijuana and related smoking devices were located inside the home. Twenty-five firearms were seized in addition to an operating moonshine-style distillery and numerous gallons of a finished alcoholic product. Dexter Allen Gantt, 22, of Victoria, Virginia, was identified as an alleged distributor of marijuana in the Lexington Park area. Detectives were able to make undercover marijuana purchases and as a result of that investigation, Gantt was indicted by the St. Mary’s County Grand Jury. An arrest warrant was issued and he was arrested for distribution of marijuana.

Philip H. Dorsey III Attorney at Law

-Serious Personal Injury CasesLEONARDTOWN: 301-475-5000 TOLL FREE: 1-800-660-3493 EMAIL: phild@dorseylaw.net

www.dorseylaw.net

The County Times

Cover On The

Thursday, August 27, 2009

$4.3 Million In Local Services Cut

By Guy Leonard and Virginia Terhune Staff Writers

The state Board of Public Works on Wednesday approved $4.3 million in state aid cuts to St. Mary’s County, primarily affecting money allocated for roads. Also affected by the cuts will be the health department, state police and community college, according to information from the Governor’s office. Gov. Martin O’Malley sits on the board with Comptroller Peter Franchot and Treasurer Nancy Kopp. On Wednesday they approved about $211

er barrack in Leonardtown will mean two civilian, nonsworn employees will be furloughed, according to Greg Shipley, spokesman for the agency. All other employees at the barrack, 36 sworn officers and six sworn civilians who work in police communications will take a reduction in salary, Shipley said. Shipley said once the economy picked up and the state budget stabilized salaries could resume on their normal track. “These are temporary salary reductions,” Shipley said. There are a total of 44 employees at the Leonardtown barrack.

Mary’s County, will be observing the furlough requirements, and administrators are waiting for more details about the plan before commenting on possible program changes. Meanwhile, the county’s Department of Human Services predicts continued loss of services to the public because of the loss of state grants. The Regional Youth Crisis Home, which serves about 50 young people in Southern Maryland, is due to close Sept. 1, said Bennett Connelly, director of Human Services. A mental health program that serves about 60 youth in their homes is due to close Oct. 1 because of lack of funding, he said. Connelly said he planned to meet with service providers and the juvenile division at the circuit court Thursday to talk about how cuts will affect substance abuse programs in the county offered by vendors such as Walden-Sierra. Connelly said he will be updating county commissioners about the talks in two to three weeks.

Health Department The Health Department, which employs about 100 people, will be closing along with other state agencies on the five scheduled furlough days, which include Sept. 4, Nov. 25, Dec. 24, Dec. 31 and May 28, 2010, according to the county’s public information officer Karen Everett, who relayed information from health officials Wednesday. Dr. William Icenhower, the county’s Health Officer, will meet with the county administrator and commissioners to find ways of absorbing the cuts without cutting services, Everett wrote in an e-mail, adding that there are no plans for layoffs Photo by Frank Marquart in the next six months. Staff and visitors attend Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting in Annapolis. “The department has not filled several vacancies and expects additional challenges this year due to seasonal flu and possible H1N1 flu million in cuts to local governments as part of O’Malley’s budget cuts slashed into state po- prevention initiatives,” she wrote. “Due to pre$450 million in cuts statewide to deal with a $700 lice law enforcement funding here by 35 percent; vious budget reductions, [the department] has million shortfall in the $13 billion state budget for state budget figures show that the local budget already lost about 12 positions over the past 2.5 years. No employees were laid off; however, vathe fiscal year 2010. was $859,874 but was reduced to $558,918. cant positions were not filled.” The reduction plan also includes layoffs of 205 people and 3 to 10 unpaid furlough days for state employees depending on salary levels. Fur- Community College Assessors lough days include Sept. 4, the Friday before the The College of Southern Maryland expects Labor Day weekend. The 10 people that work in the county’s ofSchools and courts are not affected by the to take an average 5 percent hit estimated to be fice of the state Department of Assessments and $109,000 at each of its three campuses. However, plan. those amounts will vary depending on enroll- Taxation will also be affected by the furlough proment this fall, said Bradley Gottfried, president visions along with other state employees. Supervisor Sean Powell said he is waiting for the final Highway Funds of CSM. No furloughs or layoffs are expected, and word from the state before talking specifically The category hardest hit in St. Mary’s Coun- at this point, tuitions are not expected to rise in about any changes for the St. Mary’s office. “We’ve not been officially informed on the ty will be highways. The highway user fees the January. state pays to the county’s budget was cut by 90 “We feel it’s something we can manage with- specifics yet and how exactly it will impact our percent, from $3,856,309 to $385,631. out potentially increasing tuition for the spring se- department,” he said Wednesday. County Administrator John Savich said mester,” Gottfried said. Wednesday that county government was still tryHowever, if the state continues to cut ing to figure out how to deal with the cuts and funds, tuitions may rise in the future, he that the commissioners would hold special budget said. work sessions to determine a fiscal course. The estimated $109,000 in cuts at Savich said that the $3.4 million the county each campus will be lessened by an earlost in the user fees affects the general fund as it is lier increase in state aid; the college has not used solely for road maintenance. also created a contingency fund created in The county would also have to find ways to anticipation of cuts, but the money is not cope with all the other budget cuts, Savich said, enough to completely cover the decrease, now and in the future. he said. “It’s going to be tough, and I expect that 2011 “We’ll have to find funds to balance and 2012 will be more difficult,” said Savich, who the budget, we’re still working on that,” he recently announced a hiring freeze in anticipation said. of this round of cuts.

State Troopers State cuts to the local Maryland State Troop-

Social Services The Department of Social Services, which employs about 100 people in St.

State Approves $2.7 Million For Farm Easements By Virginia Terhune Staff Writer The state Board of Public Works on Wednesday approved spending $2.7 million to purchase preservation easements on three farms in St. Mary’s County, pending final settlement. The programs allow owners to keep and continue to use the farms, but they cannot develope them further, according to state programs designed to preserve open space. The three farms include: • Tomakokin Creek Farm – easement on about 416 acres in Bushwood. Amount: $1,153,236.51. The farm is being preserved through the Maryland Agriculture Land Preservation Foundation Program through the state Department of Agriculture. Under this preservation program, the county may pick up some of the cost, but the amount won’t be known until the easement purchase reaches settlement, said Donna Sasscer, agriculture manager for St. Mary’s County. The county contribution can vary because it spends some of its own money budgeted for open-space issues, but it also receives money through the tobacco program and other programs, which can offset the open-space costs. The other two farms are being preserved through the state Department of Natural Resources’ Rural Legacy Program, which is entirely funded by the state. • Burroughs Farm – easement on 74.2 acres in Mechanicsville in the county’s Huntersville Rural Legacy Area. Amount: $586,706.14. • Veitch Farm – easement on 96.1 acres, south of Lexington Park in the county’s Mattapany Rural Legacy Area. Amount: $986,333.20. Property owners who participate in the preservation programs submit forest management and soil conservation plans. The land can be sold or given to someone but without development rights.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

Evergreen Highlighted As Schools Open

By Andrea Shiell Staff Writer

Members of the St. Mary’s County Board of Education joined school system officials and dignitaries for their ceremonial greeting of students on the first day of school Wednesday, splitting into several different groups to visit each school in the county. Superintendent Michael Martirano joined Board of Education Chair Bill Mattingly, Chief Operating Officer Brad Clements and County Commissioner President Francis Jack Russell for a whirlwind meet-and-greet tour of Leonardtown Middle School, Leonardtown High School and Evergreen Elementary School, the first new school to be built in the county since 1981, and the first LEED certified green school to be built in St. Mary’s. While at the high school, Martirano took several opportunities to point out the new Smart Boards that had been installed in many of the county’s classrooms. Clements said that the school system had spent about $3 million for new technology, not including what was spent to outfit Evergreen Elementary with computers and Smart Boards. The highlight of the Superintendent’s tour came later in the morning as his group arrived at Evergreen Elementary to find parents and students lined up in front of the school waiting to get inside. Lucinda Gray, who lives with her children Kirstin and Miles in the Wildewood community, said she had been very excited to see the school during their open house for parents the night before. “It’s a beautiful school. I really enjoy the water cistern they have over there, and the windmills.” Jamie Salermo, who recently moved to the area from Dallas, Texas, said she was excited that her children, 6-year-old Samantha and 7-year-old Robbie had the opportunity to attend. “They’ve never been to a green school, and they’re very excited, especially my son because he’s very much into science,” she said. “They both saw the garden on top, so for her it’s the same thing. She likes to help me in the garden so it’s really interesting for her.” Clements said that the school system would use Evergreen’s design as a model for the a elementary school that will be built on the Hayden property near Leonardtown in 2013.

Robbie Solermo peers through the front doors while waiting to get into Evergreen Elementary School on Wednesday.

Back To School Highlighted here are some images from the first day of school for public school students. At top, Superintendent Michael Martirano visits with students in Kelly Finan’s second grade class at Evergreen Elementary. Finan is one of 100 new teachers starting with the school system this year, having recently graduated from Vanderbilt University. At bottom, Martirano addresses Peer Development Program participants, upperclassmen who have been assigned to mentor incoming freshmen at Leonardtown High School.

A House is a Home

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

An Easy Way to a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Newâ&#x20AC;? Driveway

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Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

Multi-Generational Design the Hot Trend at Home Changing Family Dynamic Highlights Need for Form and Function

Multi-generational design is one of today’s fastest growing trends in the housing industry. As more and more people understand the benefits that smart planning affords to those of all age groups and abilities, a demand is being generated for products that combine style, safety, beauty and comfort with practicality and versatility. In fact, it’s what good, smart design should be. Multi-generational design has applications throughout the house, but it is particularly important in the bathroom. A well-thought-out This Low-Profile Shower Base with Teak Shower Seat and Teutonic Enclosure bathroom can easily acfrom MTI Whirlpools is a popular choice among families looking for a multicommodate the needs generational design to their bathroom that caters to the needs of everyone in the of young children, older household. adults and those with disabilities. And while there are many practical cona transfer surface, allowing the bather to sit down on siderations that play an important role in the design the edge and then turn into the tub instead of climbprocess, including safety, space, comfort and ease of ing over the edge. A coordinating contemporary tub use, being “sensible” doesn’t mean the bathroom has surround has been designed just for this model. This to look utilitarian. Quite the opposite, in fact. handcrafted piece of furniture complements the tub Smart design has always been a hallmark of MTI and provides additional storage and decorative disWhirlpools, whose designs are based on the prem- play space recessed in front under the wide deck ise that form must follow function. Toward that end, area. The use of a transitional design enclosure will while style is of paramount importance for MTI, it enable the Metro to integrate with a more traditional must simultaneously be thoughtful, not allowing ver- setting. satility and functionality to be sacrificed. From lowprofile shower bases to easy-entrance tubs, MTI has Little Things That Make A Big a wide variety of products that allow homeowners to Difference enjoy a bathroom environment that is as aesthetically Regardless of the size and style of tub selected, pleasing as it is universally functional. there are a number of modest enhancements that can be made to add significantly to the bath environment, Accommodating Showers making it more multi-generationally sensitive. For As the profile of the American family evolves instance, safety and security can be increased for all to embrace a wide spectrum of ages, and needs, the members with the addition of grab bars inside and/or principles of multi-generational design become in- outside the tub. creasingly important, especially in the bathroom. Available in a variety of sizes, materials and finMTI offers an extensive assortment of shower ishes, these grab bars are designed to be both decorabases and frameless shower enclosures with the tive and functional. While providing cosmetic accent, multi-generational family in mind. Just one of 7 dif- properly positioned grab bars are a low-cost, prevenferent seated shower bases, the Jeu d’Eau can even be tative addition that people of all ages will find helpful. equipped with whirlpool jets for bathing young chil- Other popular additions for consideration include: dren or for an adult foot bath. • Hand-held shower. This handy device can MTI also currently offers over 50 shower bases be used to rinse the body while bathing, and it also in different sizes, shapes and materials. Some are makes hair-washing easier. constructed of Engineered Solid-Surface material, • Neck Pillows. Soft, durable vinyl pillows are which is a mixture of ground minerals and high-per- available in a variety of shapes to provide neck supformance resins that are liquefied, poured and then port, comfort and relaxation. hardened. These “molded stone” bases feature a low• Neck Jet Pillows. These pillows offer the adprofile, multiple-threshold design for versatile instal- ditional benefit of an incomparable neck massage lation, great looks and easy entrance. These bases are by using two high-quality micro-jets of a whirlpool high in both design and function. system. • Radiance(R). This patent-pending innovation Sensible Tubs from MTI applies radiant heat technology to acrylic A luxurious tub is the centerpiece of any well- bath tubs to warm the interior surface of the bath for appointed bathroom. Comfort and practicality need neck, shoulders, back and bottom. It provides an even not be sacrificed when designing a bathroom for distribution of warmth to eliminate the shock of a multi-generation use. MTI has an amazing collection cold tub and increases relaxation during the bath. of over 150 tub designs from which to choose in all • Virtual Spout. This high-flow tub filler takes sizes, shapes and styles. And if you require a tub that the place of a traditional spout. Not only does it concan provide easier entry and exit, 17 models are only tribute to a very clean appearance, but it also elimi19” high or less. nates the usual filling spout as a possible source of Two particular models, the Metro 1 and Metro injury. 2, boast a clean, contemporary design and feature a For more information, visit www.mtiwhirlpools. generous front deck that is 11” wide, which serves as com.

A House is a Home Now You Can Walk On The Hottest Rock

By now most savvy homeowners are fully aware of what designers, builders and architects have known for the past few years -- quartz is king. Unique in combining depth and color consistency with low maintenance and unrivaled durability, it has emerged as the preferred countertop material in homes across the country. Beyond its ultra-durability, Quartz has also become the focal point of kitchen and bathroom designs across North America because of its uniquely sophisticated and timeless look. Now these same distinct characteristics can also be found underfoot with the new elegant Accolade Quartz tile collection. This hot entry in the premium quartz surface category is poised to leave an imprint on this established decor trend. “With a pallet characterized for combining the most sought-after tones with extraordinary depth and clarity, this collection is designdriven for fashionable concepts,” explained Mark Hanna, President of Montreal-based Leeza Distribution Inc., one of North America’s leading distributors of fine quartz surfaces, including the new Accolade Quartz Tile Collection. “Maintaining solid performance and durability, this quartz tile collection is suited for a wide range of design needs from contemporary accents to the latest trends.” The highlight of the collection is its unique color pallet. A carefully selected grouping of the top quartz color trends in the industry, an all-star quartz line-up if you will. “Superior hues and subtle color distinctions, creating character, are vital components of innovative design,” Hanna added. “This rich and varied pallet assures distinctive visual creations.” Engineered for design challenges in high traffic areas, the tiles feature superior quartz combined with innovative technology which assures exceptional resistance to harsh elements, abrasion and shock. They’re non-porous, require no sealing and are designed to be virtually maintenance free. Ideal for residential projects where fine and subtle color distinctions are fundamental, or for extensive commercial flooring schemes requiring superior hues, Accolade Quartz tiles are carefully formulated to maintain their stunning look. More information on quartz tiles is available at leezadistribution.com.

Heal h

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Clearing Up Acne Misconceptions Acne is a prevalent skin disorder that affects millions of people, primarily in the teenage years and early 20s. In the United States alone, 60 million people are reported to have acne. However, only 11 percent seek treatment for the condition. Acne affects all races, ages and both genders.

Understanding Acne

Acne isn’t the localized pimple that occurs once in a while. Acne is typically a series of blemishes that spring up over and over. Here is the general life cycle of acne: 1. The body produces more sebum (oil) than is necessary in sebaceous glands. Puberty and other hormonal changes are generally triggers for excessive sebum production. 2. The sebum, which in a normal pore would drain to the surface and go away naturally, mixes with bacteria from the skin and forms a blockage in the pore known as a microcomedone. 3. This microcomedone forms into a true comedone, which is commonly referred to as a “whitehead” or a “blackhead.” When the trapped sebum and bacteria remain below the skin, it is a whitehead. When the blemish opens to the surface of the skin and oxidizes, it forms a blackhead. Blackheads are not pores with dirt in them. They’re actually the sebum, bacteria and oxidized melanin, which turns a dark brown or black color. A blackhead or whitehead can release its contents to the surface and heal. This is why this type of acne is considered non-inflammatory. 4. Another route for the microcomedone to take is inflammatory

acne. In this case a papule will form when there is a break in the follicular wall of the pore. White blood cells rush in and the pore becomes inflamed. The papule will develop into a pustule several days later when white blood cells make their way to the surface of the skin. This is what people usually refer to as a “zit” or a “pimple.” Inflamed pores can rupture and spread to other areas of the skin. Sometimes several pores are affected at the same time and may form a nodule or a cyst under the skin. Acne can be painful to the touch and also very visible on the skin. Lesions may occur anywhere on the body, but are generally most visible on the face, back or chest.

Acne Treatment

Many people think that individuals with acne do not wash properly or eat greasy foods that can cause acne to surface. These are misconceptions about the skin disorder. As mentioned, acne forms from an overabundance of sebum mixed with naturally occurring bacteria. It is not the result of a dirty face or indulging in fast food French fries. Treatment for acne depends upon the scope of the condition. Options consist of reducing sebum production, removing dead skin cells, and killing bacteria with topical drugs and oral medications. • Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most popular and longest-used treatments for acne. It is found in many of the over-the-counter cleansing pads and in popular “as seen on TV” acne treatments. Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes, are the bacteria respon-

sible for acnes. The bacteria cannot live in an oxygen-rich environment. Benzoyl peroxide works by introducing oxygen into the pore, thereby killing P. acnes. Benzoyl peroxide is also good at cleaning out skin pores of excess dead skin, which in turn helps prevent pore blockages. Common side effects of this treatment are flaking and drying of the skin, which can be mediated by a little moisturizer. It’s recommended to start with a benzoyl peroxide concentration of 2.5 percent to acclimate the skin. • Sulfur and Resorcinol are other substances that are good at drying up oil and sloughing off dead skin cells, which may end up clogging pores. • Salicylic acid is a mild acid that works as a keratolytic agent -it encourages the sloughing of dead skin cells. It is found in a host of skin treatment products because of its ability to dissolve the outer layer of skin. • Alcohol will dry out the skin and excessive oil. It is typically found in toners and other face washes. • For severe acne cases, a dermatologist may prescribe medications that work to treat acne from the inside out. A combination of oral antibiotics (to kill the P. acnes bacteria), and vitamin A derivatives (to shrink oil-producing sebaceous glands) may be used depending upon severity. There are many viable treatments for acne. With routine care lesions can be kept at bay and under control. Over time an individual may find he or she “grows out” of acne. If you are concerned about acne, visit your doctor to find a treatment method that is best for the severity of your condition.

Did You Know? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 45,000 American

adults die of complications of influenza, pneumococcal infections, and hepatitis B each year. Those

figures can be startling considering that each of the aforementioned diseases can be prevented with vaccines. While certain vaccines given during childhood, such as the one given for polio, protect people for the duration of their lives, vaccinations for certain diseases must be given periodically for people to maintain immunity. Other vaccines, such as the chickenpox vaccination, were not available when many adults were children. The CDC recommends all adults get annual vaccinations for varicella (chickenpox), hepatitis B, measlesmumps-rubella (MMR), and tetanus. The CDC also notes that as people age they grow more susceptible to serious diseases caused by common infections, emphasizing the need for the elderly to receive annual vaccinations for influenza for those over the age of 50 and pneumonia for those 65 and older. To receive a complete adult immunization schedule, visit the CDC Web site at www.cdc.gov.

Acne can be controlled with different treatment options.

Refrigerator Food Safety Guidelines Keeping foods stored safely and according to guidelines can help prevent many food borne illnesses. The refrigerator/freezer is one appliance most people turn to for keeping foods fresh. However, it’s important to know that food is not impervious to spoilage even inside of a refrigerator or when frozen. The United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service offers these guidelines for storing food safely. Product Raw eggs in shell Egg, chicken, ham, tuna,and macaroni salads Opened hot dogs Unopened hot dogs Opened lunch meat Unopened lunch meat Bacon Sausage, raw Ground meats Steaks, fresh Chops, fresh Roasts, fresh Chicken or turkey, whole Chicken or turkey, pieces Vegetable or meat stews and soups Leftover meat/poultry Leftover chicken nuggets Leftover pizza

Refrigerator 3 to 5 weeks

Freezer do not freeze in shell

3 to 5 days 1 week 2 weeks 3 to 5 days 2 weeks 7 days 1 to 2 days 1 to 2 days 3 to 5 days 3 to 5 days 3 to 5 days 1 to 2 days 1 to 2 days

does not freeze well 1 to 2 months 1 to 2 months 1 to 2 months 1 to 2 months 1 month 1 to 2 months 1 to 2 months 6 to 12 months 4 to 6 months 4 to 12 months 1 year 9 months

3 to 4 days 3 to 4 days 3 to 4 days 3 to 4 days

2 to 3 months 2 to 6 months 1 to 3 months 1 to 2 months

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

A Journey Through Time

By Linda Reno Contributing Writer

Chronicle

Time, and no Regard was paid to the Consequences, until the Hydrophobia had begun to shew itself. On Thursday Evening some Assistance was called in, and Dr. James’s Mercurial Medicines were administered; but before their Effects could be fairly produced, Death put an End to his Miseries. At the Intervals between his Convulsions, he was perfectly sensible, and begged to be so secured as that he might not do any Person an Injury.” (Maryland Gazette, May 31, 1764). A cure for this dreaded disease began about 1885 with Dr. Louis Pasteur. You don’t get inoculated for hydrophobia (rabies), but if bitten by a rabid animal, there is now help. In 1910, a young St. Mary’s County boy died of polio. The Baltimore Sun reported that Dr. William Baltzell Burch had diagnosed four children with infantile paralysis. One had already died and three others, the children of Colton Yates, well seriously ill. The thought was that Mr. Yates had taken the infection to his home in his clothing. The source of the infection was believed to have come from the blood of a sick sheep, “which was bled by Colton Yates, a colored farmhand, on September 18. Permeating the air, the germs of the malady attacked fouryear-old Benjamin Greenwell, son of the late Senator J. J. Greenwell, of St. Mary’s county.” The child became ill 12 days after the bleeding of the sheep. Dr. Burch said that he had soon learned of the sheep being sick with a “peculiar” disease and had tried to make an examination of the sheep’s carcass, but the buzzards had picked its bones clean. The doctor had determined that Ben Greenwell had played around the spot where the sheep had been bled, and “breathed the germs into his lungs.” He died after just four days “the shortest illness from this malady I have ever known in 21 years’ experience. His heart was paralyzed, though he remained conscious until the end.” After treating the other children, Dr. Burch directed that the homes of the Greenwell and Yates families be disinfected with formaldehyde. He said that he thought the Yates children would recover— although one little girl’s arms and legs were then paralyzed. “As for the treatment, we usually give strychnine. We have also been giving quinine. Massage seems to give some relief, while most of the drugs have been proved to be useless.” *According to Dr. Robert Bauer, infection would have occurred by physical contact with the sheep’s remains or blood vs. air.

Stop, right now and take a few moments to enjoy the sight and yes, even the sounds, of your children. Then tonight get on your knees and thank God that you were given these gifts and promise him that you will do everything in your power to protect them--even if it hurts them a little bit sometimes. School has just started and we’ll begin hearing about children being denied admission to school because they haven’t been immunized. There’s only one reason for this. It’s called ignorance. Four little footstones, all in a row, lie at Christ Church in Chaptico. They mark the burial places of the children of Lewis Davis and his wife, Molly Love. In little over a month, this couple lost four of their six children to diphtheria. The Davis home, once filled with the laughter and gaiety that only little children can bring, was now the scene of sorrow and tears. Anna Mae (Herriman) Richardson, a granddaughter of Lewis and Molly, once told me that Molly never got over the deaths of these children. Who would? Diphtheria, a highly contagious disease, caused death by suffocation or through damage to the heart or kidneys. The prevailing treatment at that time was kerosene poured on a cloth and tied around the patient’s neck—the equivalent of fighting a forest fire with a garden hose. The first successful vaccine for diphtheria was not developed until 1913 and it would be another 10 years before deaths began to significantly decline. The DPT shot protects today’s children not only but diphtheria but pertussis (whooping cough) and tetanus (lockjaw). Your children receive a number of different shots, all important to their well-being and indeed, their lives. Medical science has made huge advances over the years and some diseases or injuries that meant almost certain death in earlier years are just about unheard of today. We still hear about a few of them, but they’re treatable. Let’s look at a couple of others. “On Friday Night the 18th Instant, expired in the midst of inexpressible Tortures, in St. Mary’s County, Mr. John Hoskins, a Man of about 45 or 50 Years of Age, who about 10 Weeks before was Bit in the Leg by a Mad Dog. The Wounds, which were considerable, healed in a small Davis Children footstones, Christ Church.

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The County Times

Getting Deep in the Shallow End

ary’s M

“I’m a huge fan of Incubus and Elton John,” said Steve, while guitarist Chris Frantz listed a mishmash of favorites like Pearl Jam, Depeche Mode, Fugazi, Alice in Chains, Nine Inch Nails and the Pixies. Steve Nelson, Joe Barrick and Drummer Joe Chris Frantz are ShallowDeep. Barrick, who has been splitting his duties as the drummer for HydraFX to join ShallowDeep onstage for the last couple of weeks, couldn’t help but lavish his praises on Pantera’s Vinnie Paul, which he listed as one of his primary influences, though he also brings with him a love for party bands like Sublime and 311. And although one can hear traces of all of the aforementioned bands in their set, the material still manages to distinguish itself. Of course Saturday afternoon offered little more than a scant sampling of ShallowDeep’s talents, where the trio were slated to headline the Wounded Warrior benefit at the St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge off of Chancellor’s Run Road. As heavy rains pummeled the ground, soaking their feet and causing cancellations, they eventually settled on doing an impromptu opening set for D.C. darlings the Lloyd Dobler Effect, who were playing at Hula’s Bungalow in California later that night. After arriving they swept past numerous fans as they took the stage, stopping to greet many of them by name. Due to their approachable, almost amiable nature, it may be safest to say that this trio can turn on the charm, but they can also turn up the amps as well. And even though they’re not sticking with standard covers (the only cover they performed was a loud and inventive version of Michael Jackson’s “Billy Jean”), the stuff stays with you. ShallowDeep’s next big date will be at the 2009 Park Rock Festival, which will be held at Chancellor’s Run Regional Park on September 5 and 6. For more information on the band, including mp3s and performance schedules, go to www.myspace. Steve Nels com/shallowdeep. on

Show Time

St.

Shows and Rating Provided By Yahoo Entertainment. Check Local Listings For Show Times.

Get Out & Have Fun Right Here in St. Ma ry’s Now Playing

AMC Loews, Lexington Park 6, (301) 862-5010 • District 9 R, 113 min • The Final Destination R, 82 min Starts on Fri, Aug 28 • G-Force PG, 90 min

• G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra PG-13, 118 min • Inglourious Basterds R, 152 min

• Post Grad PG-13, 89 min • The Time Traveler’s Wife; PG-13, 108 min

County!

The County Times is always looking for more local talent to feature! To submit art or entertainment announcements, or band information for our entertainment section, e-mail andreashiell@ countytimes.net.

iell Sh

It takes a fair amount of digging to find a local band that performs (mostly) original material. (It’s not that they don’t exist, mind you, but this reviewer has noticed they tend to favor the Baltimore circuit.) And it takes even more digging to find bands that have cut an album and enjoy radio play without a label behind them. Such creatures are rare in Southern Maryland, where the local bar and nightclub scene tends to rely on cover bands who perform standard singalong favorites (Georgia Satellites, anyone?). Though the rock cover formula works well (especially for club owners), to actually run into a group that writes and arranges their own material, while ntz Fra Chris still proliferating in the area’s nightlife, is too rare not to notice. But that may be why Lexington Park’s ShallowDeep generates so much buzz. Bassist and lead vocalist Steve Nelson, 31, started the band in 2005 but said that personality conflicts had led to several changes over the years, the most recent one happening when the band’s drummer (who shall remain nameless) quit unexpectedly right before a performance in Baltimore. “There have been multiple lineup changes. I don’t want to go through all the names, there’s too many,” said Steve, laughing. “I think we had different opinions on the way the band was going. I still believed in the music, they didn’t, so I kept it going.” Despite the turnover, the band has met with a great deal of success in a relatively short period of time, earning recognition as 98 Rock’s band of the month for April 2009 and gaining several track-ofthe-day accolades from GarageBand.com. The band’s 2006 album, Joe Barrick “Ammunition”, boasts a polished sound and professional quality, as does the members’ stage act, but it may be hard to pinpoint their influences since there seem to be so many.

Ph oto sB y ea dr An

By Andrea Shiell Staff Writer

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Movie Review: “The Time Traveler’s Wife” By Christy Lemire AP Movie Critic

So let’s try to get this straight here. In “The Time Traveler’s Wife,” Eric Bana plays a guy named Henry who jumps around the past, present and future, only he can’t control where or when he goes. Supposedly, he also can’t control how he gets back where he came from, except for when he tries certain tricks to place himself in a state of mind to time travel. Even then there’s no way to guarantee which version of Henry will show up: the same one who left or a younger or older version of himself. Still, he manages to hold down a job at a Chicago library and maintain an apartment, makeshift as it is. The only constant seems to be that when he shows up at his destination, he’s always naked. (Somehow, Henry has found time between all his travels to hit the gym.) Hunky as he is, he’d be a frustrating guy to fall in love with, or even date. Women like stability, you know. But Rachel McAdams’ character, Clare, must be made of stronger stuff than the rest of us, because not only does she tolerate Henry’s pesky inconsistency, she believes he’s her destiny, and that he has been since the first time she saw him as a precocious 6-year-old girl (played by Brooklynn Proulx). The core of “The Time Traveler’s Wife” is their struggle to stay together. Director Robert Schwentke’s film, based on the Audrey Niffenegger best-seller, breezes through their relationship, including the fact that Clare and Henrys meet-cute is more like a meet-creepy. He’s a thirty-something man who shows up wearing no clothes in the meadow behind her parents’ house, asks to borrow her picnic blanket and just starts talking to her. This doesn’t freak her out at all – where is the stranger-danger lesson, people? – presumably because she knows, even at this tender age, that she is cosmically meant to be with him. Maybe it’s more plausible on the written page – or maybe you just have to be a hopeless romantic, and willing to shut off the part of your brain that craves logic, to enjoy this. But strangely, in the script from Bruce Joel Rubin (an Oscar winner for “Ghost,” a supernatural love story that actually made sense) the time-travel gimmick supersedes any sort of substance, depth or character development. Bana and McAdams try their best to win us over to this complicated conceit with enormously earnest performances. McAdams shows some of the same dramatic capabilities that helped make her a star in “The Notebook.” As for Bana, this is a rare and welcome opportunity to see him play the romantic lead, for which his dark good looks and strong presence would seem to make him a natural. And the ever-reliable character actor Stephen Tobolowsky grounds things somewhat as the geneticist who tries to help Henry and Clare forge some sort of normal life. Still, we’re left wondering afterward, how do these people feel about this extraordinary situation in which they’ve found themselves? In theory, indeterminate time traveling would wreak havoc with even the most mundane daily activities: grocery shopping, sitting at a red light, parent-teacher conferences. Speaking of which, Henry and Clare eventually have a daughter to whom they pass on the time-travel gene, but it doesn’t seem to bother the kid, either. Really? You’re 5 years old, playing hopscotch with your buddies during recess, and poof! You disappear. Wouldn’t that be slightly disturbing? “The Time Traveler’s Wife” doesn’t seem interested in crawling inside her head, either. It’s too busy trying to tug at our hearts. (Released by New Line Cinema; Rated PG-13 for thematic elements, brief disturbing images, nudity and sexuality; Run time 107 minutes; Two stars out of four.)

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Thursday, August 27

• Roadhouse Band Apehanger’s (Bel Alton) – 9 p.m.

• DJ Katie Calypso Bay Raw Bar (Solomons) – 4 p.m.

• UpStroke Jake and Al’s Chophouse (Lusby) – 8 p.m.

• Fair Warning Irish Pub Band CJ’s Back Room (Lusby) – 5 p.m.

• Legend Vera’s Beach Club (Lusby) – 9 p.m.

• David Norris Corbel’s Fine Dining & Spirits (Leonardtown) – 5 p.m.

• DJ Red Dog & Karaoke Cryer’s Back Road Inn (Leonardtown) – 9 p.m.

• BBQ Night VFW Post 2632 (California) – 5:30 p.m.

• Karaoke Cadillac Jack’s (Lexington Park) – 9:30 p.m.

• UpStroke Chef’s American Bistro – 6 p.m. • Ladies Night Fat Boys Country Store (Leonardtown) – 7 p.m. • Quiz Night Buffalo Wings and Beer (Leonardtown) – 7:30 p.m. • Ladies Night with DJ Pablo and DJ Marc Shubrooks Hulas Bungalow (California) – 8 p.m. • Karaoke Cadillac Jack’s (Lexington Park) – 9:30 p.m

Friday, August 28 • DJ Katie CJ’s Back Room (Lusby) – 3 p.m. • Fair Warning Irish Pub Band Donovan’s Pub (California) – 5 p.m. • David Norris DB McMillan’s Irish Pub and Grill – 6 p.m. • School House Rock LIVE! Patuxent Presbyterian Church (California) – 6:30 p.m. • Randy Riche (jazz piano) Café des Aristes (Leonardtown) – 6:30 p.m. • La Plata Summer Concert Series La Plata Town Hall – 7 p.m. • Fourth Friday Movie Night: Rivers & Tides Joy Lane Healing Center (Hollywood) – 7 p.m. • Free Market Economics Reading Group Dunkin’ Donuts (California) – 7:30 p.m. • Bent Nickel Seabreeze Tiki Bar (Mechanicsville) – 8 p.m. • 4 Friends Chef’s American Bistro – 8 p.m.** • Matt Garett Acoustic Brewski’s Tavern (Loveville) – 9 p.m.**

• No Greeen JellyBeenz Heavy Hitters (Charlotte Hall) – 9:30 p.m. • Outbreak Vera’s Beach Club (Lusby) – 9:30 p.m.

• Full Steam Bikini Contest Vera’s Beach Club (Lusby) – 2 p.m. • Steak Dinner Hollywood Vol. Rescue Squad – 4:30 p.m. • Downtown Tunes: 25th Hour Band & Geezer (Rescheduled) Leonardtown Square – 6 p.m.

Saturday, August 29

• Captain John DB McMillan’s Pub and Grill (California) – 7 p.m.

• Broken Stigma Brewski’s Tavern (Leonardtown) – 9 p.m.

• Phill Vassar & Little Big Town St. Leonard Vol. Fire Department – 7 p.m.

• Breakfast at Applebee’s/Leah’s House Benefit for Leah’s House shelter for women, children in Valley Lee. Applebee’s off Route 235 at 45480 Miramar Way in California, 7 a.m. Tickets $8. Pancakes, sausage, fruit, juice, coffee, iced tea, sodas. www.leahshousemd.org.

• School House Rock LIVE! Patuxent Presbyterian (California) – 8 p.m.

• Chaptico Classic Run Christ Episcopal Church Parish Hall (Chaptico) – 8 a.m. The 24th running of the Chaptico Classic benefits Alternatives for Youth and Families. Serious runners compete on a 10K or 5K T.A.C. certified course described by Running Times as “one of the best county road races.” Pre-register by contacting Donna Bell (301-884-0312 0312 or dbell@alternatives4youth.org) or register at 7 on the day of the race. $30 ($15 for high school runners).

• Nuttin’ Fancy Band CJ’s Back Room (Lusby) – 8 p.m.

• 143rd Calvert County Jousting Tournament Christ Episcopal Church (3100 Broomes Island Rd, Port Republic) – 9 a.m.

• Less Than Broken Calypso Bay Crab House (Solomons) – 9 p.m. **

• Raku Party Annmarie Garden – 9 a.m. • Popeye Moore Memorial Bike Ride To Charlotte Hall Veterans Home Calvert Elks Lodge (Prince Frederick) – 9:30 a.m. • Rush Hour 2 Chancellor’s Run Regional Park – 10 a.m. Rush Hour is an all day community event sponsored by Living Hope First United Pentecostal Church and the Southern Maryland community. Rush Hour includes various events: a Calvert K9 Search team demonstration, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, 3-point shootout,slam dunk contest, a soccer skills challenge, Punt, Pass and Kick, Home Run Derby, antique car show, a play area

n O g Goin

What’s

for children and more. All events are free. Food is free for the first 2000 to arrive. There will be other vendors selling food as well. Musicians will be playing all day. In order to compete in the car show or competitions, you must register on the Rush Hour website. The Rush Hour website is:www.rushhourmd.weebly.com.

• Legend Seabreeze Tiki Bar (Mechanicsville) – 8 p.m.

• Bent Nickel Anderson’s Bar (Avenue) – 8 p.m. • Beretta Jane Hulas Bungalow (California) – 8 p.m. • 4 Friends Chef’s American Bistro – 8 p.m.** • One Louder Vera’s Beach Club (Lusby) – 9 p.m.**

• The Craze Big Dogs Paradise (Mechanicsville) – 9 p.m.** • WildGood Fat Boys Country Store (Leonardtown) – 9 p.m. • Karaoke w/ DJ Tommy T & DJ T Applebee’s (California) – 9 p.m. • Three Sixty Apehanger’s (Bel Alton) – 9 p.m. • Permanent Damage Drift Away Bar & Grill (Cobb Island) – 9 p.m. • WildGood Fat Boys Country Store (Leonardtown) – 9 p.m.

Sunday, August 30 • Pet Adoptions Pepper’s Pet Pantry (Solomons) – 12 noon • Brain Freeze Sundays Fat Boys Country Store (Leonardtown) – 12 noon • School House Rock LIVE! Patuxent Presbyterian Church (California) – 3 p.m. • Texas Hold’Em Tournament – The Big Game Izaak Walton Hall (Hughesville) – 3:30 p.m. • 5 O’Clock Somewhere Cruise Cheeseburger in Paradise (California) – 5 p.m.

Monday, August 31 • Margarita Mondays Fat Boys Country Store (Leonardtown) – 12 noon • No Limit Texas Hold’Em “Bounty” Tournament St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge – 7 p.m.

Tuesday, September 1 • Nature Time at Greenwell Greenwell State Park (Hollywood) – 10 a.m. • Fair Warning Irish Pub Band DB McMillan’s Irish Pub – 6 p.m. • Health Care Town Hall Meeting North Point High School (Waldorf) – 7 p.m. The town hall will provide 5th District citizens an opportunity to discuss the goals and details of efforts to reform health care, learn how they will benefit from improvements to the system, and voice their views and questions to the Congressman. ·Doors to the town hall meeting will open at 6:00 p.m. ·Event capacity is 1000. Entry will be granted on a first come first serve basis. ·Parking is available in the high school parking lot after 5:00 p.m. Citizens can find more information on health reform, including fact sheets and a summary of the bill under consideration in the U.S. House, on Congressman Hoyer’s website at www.hoyer.house.gov. • Karaoke Cadillac Jack’s (Lexington Park) – 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 2 • Why Snooze When You Can Crooze Arby’s Parking Lot (Leonardtown) – 5 p.m. • Captain John DB McMillan’s Irish Pub – 5:30 p.m.

• Fractal Folk with Scott Harsha Hotel Charles (Hughesville) – 9 p.m.

• Learn to Line Dance Hotel Charles (Hughesville) – 7 p.m.

• Country Dance Night Cadillac Jack’s (Lexington Park) – 9:30 p.m.

**Approximate time, call venue to confirm

Cuisine

The County Times

To Enjoy Wine Raise a Glass, But What Kind?

On The Menu

By MICHELLE LOCKE Associated Press Writer

Seafood And Hearty Pasta Make Easy Summer Dinner In my kitchen, versatility trumps all. A recipe that isn’t fussy makes it easier for me to cater not only to my tastes, but also to my schedule, lifestyle and budget. Take this recipe for gnocchi with lobster and peas. The lobster adds a decadent splurge to an easy weekday meal. But if lobster isn’t in your budget, frozen cooked shrimp or canned lump crabmeat are fine, fast and more affordable alternatives. If you decide to go for the lobsters (this recipe calls for the meat of two small ones), have them cooked in the grocer’s seafood department while you shop. This saves you time and mess, and usually is free. Shelf-stable fresh gnocchi also are a lush choice that cook in just minutes, but any pasta would work. Cheese-filled ravioli or tortellini would be especially nice. If time is more important than money, stick with fresh pastas, which cook much faster than dry varieties. The sauce for the pasta and seafood is made from creme fraiche, which resembles cream cheese but is softer and has a more neutral flavor. Ricotta cheese or whipped cream cheese are great, less expensive options.

GNOCCHI WITH LOBSTER AND PEAS... OR NOT

Start to finish: 20 minutes the onion, Servings: 4 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon thyme 1 cup frozen peas 16-ounce package gnocchi or other pasta 1 cup creme fraiche or ricotta cheese 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (more or less to taste) 1 1/2 cups cooked lobster, shrimp or lump crabmeat (about two 1-pound lobsters, meat from the claws, tails and knuckles) Salt and ground black pepper, to taste In a large skillet over medium-high, heat the olive oil. Add

garlic and thyme, then saute until the onion is soft, about 4 minutes. Add the peas, stir well, then cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Meanwhile, bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions. Drain the gnocchi and set aside. Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the creme fraiche or ricotta and hot sauce, tossing well until the dairy melts into a smooth sauce. Stir in the lobster or other seafood and heat until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper. Add the gnocchi to the seafood mixture and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.

Healthy Bites

Creamy No-Cream Pies for Summer By JIM ROMANOFF For The Associated Press If you’re aiming for silky, creamy desserts, you generally need heaps of fat. Cream and custard pies, for example, often call for whole milk, several tablespoons of butter, four to five eggs, even heavy cream.

But it is possible to get the creamy feel without all the fat. Cream and custard pies basically have a pudding as their base, and there are plenty of ways to replicate that without indulging too much. For any pie, using fruit as a topping is a great way to avoid the fat and calories that come from either a top crust or a whipped cream topping.

SILKY BUTTERMILK PIE WITH BLUEBERRIES Start to finish: 1 hour 20 minutes (20 minutes active) For the filling: 1/3 cup sugar 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 2 large eggs 1 large egg white 14-ounce can nonfat sweetened condensed milk 1 cup nonfat buttermilk 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 frozen 9-inch deep-dish pie shell For the topping: 3 cups fresh blueberries 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Heat the oven to 325 F. To make the filling, in a small

bowl, stir together the sugar, flour, salt and nutmeg. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg white. Add the condensed milk, buttermilk, lemon juice and vanilla, whisking thoroughly. Whisk in the reserved sugar mixture. Pour the filling into the pie shell. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. Transfer the pie to a rack to cool until lukewarm, about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, to make the blueberry topping, in a small saucepan over low, stir 1 cup of the blueberries until they start to become juice, about 2 minutes. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.

On The Vine

& More

By J.M. HIRSCH AP Food Editor

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Servings: 8

Increase the heat to medium and let the blueberries simmer, stirring occasionally, until they are thickened, about 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the cinnamon and the remaining 2 cups of blueberries. Set aside to cool until lukewarm, about 15 minutes. Spread the blueberry mixture over the top of the pie. Serve warm, or cover with plastic wrap lightly coated with nonstick spray and refrigerate. Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 370 calories; 74 calories from fat; 8 g fat (3 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 57 mg cholesterol; 66 g carbohydrate; 9 g protein; 1 g fiber; 337 mg sodium.

OAKVILLE, Calif. (AP) – Can a fancier glass add class to your wine? Stemware manufacturers certainly think so, offering varietal-specific designs that supposedly enhance whatever you care to quaff. To Maximilian Riedel (rhymes with needle), CEO of Riedel Crystal, a glass is the ``messenger’’ that shapes and delivers wine in a nuanced manner influenced by slight changes in the design, such as a bigger bowl or narrower rim. ``There is no one glass that can showcase every wine,’’ he said as he led a recent tasting seminar in the Napa Valley. Conventional wisdom holds that sparkling wines keep their bubbles better in skinny flutes. Heavier whites, such as a chardonnay, usually are served in glasses with a fairly large bowl; red wines generally are served in ``tulip’’ style glasses, with the rim slightly narrower than the bowl. And there are plenty of variations of each. But there also are plenty of skeptics. ``The glass doesn’t know what kind of wine is in there,’’ points out Joshua Wesson, a former sommelier and co-founder of Best Cellars, wine stores selling inexpensive wines. ``Good wine is good wine and good taste will win out regardless of the vessel.’’ There’s not a lot of science on the subject, hardly surprising since wine tasting is highly subjective. Greg Hirson, an enology graduate student at the University of California, Davis, recently studied how glass shape affects the smell of a wine (smell is a considerable component of flavor). He analyzed aroma compounds in the ``headspace’’ or upper portion of a glass, then had human testers sniff the wine. The shape of the glass did seem to have some effect. A glass with a wider bowl (base) and narrower rim, say a typical Bordeaux glass, did seem to make wine more intense to the human testers. But the effect was small, and, Hirson points out, intensifying flavor doesn’t guarantee improved taste. Which is not to say he doesn’t like a fine wine in a fine glass. ``There’s certainly an emotional aspect to tasting wine out of an expensive glass,’’ he said. ``You feel differently. You feel like it’s more of an event. There’s the whole pomp and circumstance about drinking wine out of a glass and I think it will change your perception of the wine tasting, but I don’t think it actually changes the wine.’’ These days, Riedel has an extensive line of wine glasses, including a recent addition designed specifically for Oregon pinot noir after producers in that region made a case that their wines were unique enough to merit the distinction. Wesson agrees that glass shape affects aromatics to some extent and calls Riedel glasses ``beautiful.’’ But glass shape can’t change the ultimate degree of pleasure that you take from drinking, he said, calling wine tasting ``a binary exercise _ thumbs up or thumbs down.’’ He needs ``four glasses on my desert island.’’ Stemless for everyday drinking, an all-purpose wine glass for red, one with a slightly larger bowl for white and a flute for bubbly. On the other hand, Mary Ewing-Mulligan, owner and president of International Wine Center in New York, has ``dozens’’ of wine glasses at home. She concedes that thinking about glass shape ``is a little bit geeky,’’ but is convinced that glass design can affect wine taste, to the point that she once took her own glasses to a favorite restaurant that was using inferior stemware. ``The glass definitely is the delivery system and the pro- Riedel: http://www.riedel.com cess of delivering is Best Cellers: http://www.bestcellars.com/ definitely relevant,’’ International Wine Center: http://www.internationalwinecenter.com/ she said.

On the Net:

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Wanderings of an Aimless

Min

Archie Daze

By Shelby Oppermann Contributing Writer I can’t believe it! Archie Andrews has finally proposed to someone after 65 years – and it’s Veronica, not Betty. How could this happen? Archie is choosing financial security over loyalty. After all, Archie has had a hard time holding down jobs. Does the economy affect the world of comic book stars? This probably doesn’t mean much in the scheme of things, but as I was listening to this breaking news on NPR, I felt the urge to go buy an Archie comic. I guess that was the point. Hearing all this brought back warm memories of sitting curled

up on my bed or under a tree enjoying every word and picture. Comic books, Slurpees and transistor radios were wonderful childhood summertime joys. NPR did a funny little skit on the proposal event with Archie telling Veronica, ”I know you’ve waited 65 years for this proposal, but may I tell you that you don’t look a day over 16.” Veronica replied, “Archie, does this mean you’ll finally quit singing that song, ”Sugar, Sugar” after we are married?” In the background, you could hear Betty screaming from outside the jewelry store window, “Archie, NOOOO!” Archiecomics.com even has a blog for all of the Riverdale residents in the series.

Creature Feature River Rompers

By Theresa Morr Contributing Writer Can you imagine spending all day splashing and wallowing around in water and mud? How about having lips about two feet wide and canine teeth 20 inches or longer? Yikes! Now add a big bulky hairless body, grayish on top and pinkish underneath; some short stubby legs; small ears; and a very broad head. Why, you’d be a hippopotamus, or river horse! The name comes from the Greek words “hippo,” meaning horse, and “potamus,” meaning river. And that’s where these king-sized fellows hang out --- the freshwater rivers and lakes of east Africa. Hunky hippos. These semi-aquatic mammals grow up to be humongous, like about 3 tons worth. In fact, these heavyweights are among the “big three” of the largest living land mammals, trailing behind elephants and white rhinos. With eyes, ears, and nose positioned atop their heads, along with super hearing, sight, and smell, hippos can easily keep tabs on what’s happening around their neighborhood. Underwater wonders. Hippos move easily underwater but can only stay under for about six minutes at a time. And when fully submerged, their nose and ears close so water can’t get in. They can even prance along on the bottom of a river or lake. And if a hippo happens to nod off underwater, it’s no big deal. These big boys automatically rise to the surface and breathe without waking up! But

younger hippos can only stay under for about 30 seconds at a time. Pretty awesome stuff, huh? Keeping cool. Since hippos are hairless and have no sweat glands, the hot tropical African climate is hard on their skin. But Mother Nature comes to the rescue with her awesome built-in sunscreen: A reddish oily substance seeps out of the hippo’s body, keeping them cool and protecting their skin from drying out. And in case you’re wondering about that flat, swatter-like tail, well, the hippo uses it to spread its excrement around, which is just a way of marking its territory. These animals communicate with one another through lots of snorts, hisses, grunts, bellows, along with some very serious head banging. You’ve probably seen them on Animal Planet, challenging one another with their huge open mouths, long canine teeth, and ramming their heads together like giant sledgehammers. Ouch! Hippos are herbivores, meaning they like to chow down on plants. As darkness descends, they come out of their watering holes to graze on their favorite short grasses. Hippo groups are made up of females, their young, a few young adult males, and are led by one large male bull. Natural born swimmers. Baby hippos are born on land or in shallow water, ready to swim at a chunky 50 to 100 pounds. Mamma hippo nudges her water baby to the surface for its first breath, and she also nurses the newborn underwater. Hippos live about 20 to 40 years in the wild and about 50 years in captivity. Like many wild African animals, they are threatened by habitat loss and by poachers who sell the hippo’s meat and teeth. To learn lots more about hippos, including the rare Pygmy species, check out www. pbs.org/wnet/nature/hippo/index.html. Comments to Kikusan2@verizon.net.

Veronica is “Ronnie” on her blog. Not that I have actually read a comic book in almost 40 years, but I loved them as a child, and had a huge collection. It helped that I grew up less than ¼ mile from a 7/11 store. I had my almost daily trek by bike or foot to get a Slurpee, hotdog or candy. The highlight was picking out which comics to get: Archie, The Fantastic Four, Batman or all. At that time you could even buy albums at 7/11’s. My first two albums were Mungo Jerry and Thoroughly Modern Millie. I wish I had saved some of those comics, but I gave them all away as prizes at my little (side yard instead of back yard) MDA carnival. Remember those. It took several trips in my radio flyer wagon to bring all the comic books over to our extra lot. (You might know that now as Joe’s El Rancho’s parking lot in Clinton). I just looked the carnivals up for fun to see if they still promote them. And, lo and behold, on the MDA news site there is an article titled “Return of rite of Summer – backyard carnivals”. All the games I remember were there. Even though they send you a carnival packet, it was encouraged that you use what games, sports equipment, and toys you had around the house. I even used the landscape. I can recall a tree that had this low, strong branch that I told kids they could ride up and down on. 25 cents a ride. What a great thing it was for kids to think up new ways to utilize old stuff. We were recycling then and didn’t know it. Well, you could also get 5 cents back on every Coke or Grape Nehi bottle then too. Somebody somewhere in Maryland is listing my old comics on EBay right now. Once in a while I think, “Boy, I wish I had those comics still. They must be worth quite a bit of money now.” But, then I think I did the right thing by

having the carnival. I was trained to give toys away. I woke up one Saturday morning to find my Father walking across the street to our neighbor’s house pulling my wagon filled with toys and games. It was quite a shock to a little kid. But, Daddy, in his calm way explained that the couple’s grandkids didn’t have many toys, and would enjoy these so much. You didn’t argue with Daddy, he was just practical, and was not one to put much stock in possessions. Both my sons enjoyed comic books, and we would have fun finding comic book stores to explore. I was a mean Mother, and didn’t allow video games. They were so deprived. My Mother, Grandma Dearest, bought them Nintendo 64, but I wouldn’t allow them to bring it home. They had to play it at Grandma’s. She was wicked in her way. A trip to Grandma’s by themselves for the weekend meant trips to 7/11 for donuts, candy, a stop on the way back for spaghetti makings at Nick’s, and then a stop at Shuler’s Restaurant to get some lottery tickets. Then back at her house it was hi-test coffee, Nintendo, and five dogs. What more could a kid want? It seemed normal to them. I really hope that Archie reconsiders and proposes to Betty instead. He’s just going to get hurt with Veronica. Can he really only want beauty queen looks, money, and shallow conversation – in other words be a kept man? I just heard an answer for that question from the other room. I think I need a security blanket and an old comic to curl up with. To each new day’s adventure, Shelby Please send comments or ideas to: shelbys. wanderings@yahoo.com.

The County Times

CLUES ACROSS 1. Garland of flowers 4. Physicist Georg Simon 7. Very fast airplane 10. Electronic counter-countermeasures 12. Containing nothing 14. A Maori social gathering 15. Alternate name 17. Sea eagles 18. Make angry 19. ____ and Vanzetti 20. Baby’s sound toy 22. Atomic #65 23. ‘___ death do us part 24. Vessel or duct 26. Capital of Ghana 28. Occupies 31. Contains boron 32. Woodland flycatcher 33. Humble in spirit 34. Table condiments 39. Unit of weight (Indian) 40. Actor Clark 41. Having winglike extensions

Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions

ner

KiddKioer

Thursday, August 27, 2009

43. Short tasked missions 46. Hilarity 47. Czarist Russia cavalrymen 49. In the year of Our Lord 50. Rub or wipe out 54. Units of weight 55. Coffin stand 57. Make a ringing sound 58. Fish with a hook & line 59. Mortgage value ratio 60. An unspecified portion 61. Scottish valley 62. Hole in a needle 63. Be almost asleep 64. Point midway between E and SE

CLUES DOWN

1. Opposite of most 2. Oblong cream puff 3. Frozen spike 4. Superintended 5. Israeli dance 6. Coin factory 7. ___ite: Muslim branch

8. More muggy 9. Restrain plants 11. Rubberized raincoat 13. Fall back time 16. Council in former USSR 18. Compensating 21. Workplace for research 25. Ethiopian town 27. One of the Algonquian 29. Splashes of liquid 30. Grasslike bog plant 34. Firmness 35. Daminozide 36. With package 37. A river in NE Spain 38. A fourth state of matter 39. Domesticatable 42. Extremely high frequency 44. Hang loosely 45. Weighing machines 48. 03431 51. Exposure rate for film 52. Longest division of geological time 53. Military disguise 56. Adam’s wife

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Business

DIRECTORY Call to Place Your Ad: 301-373-4125

P.A. Hotchkiss & Associates Since 1987

Auto Accidents – Criminal – Domestic Wills – Power of Attorney DWI/Traffic – Workers’ Compensation 301-870-7111 1-800-279-7545 www.pahotchkiss.com

To Place a Classified Ad, please email your ad to: classifieds@countytimes.net or Call: 301-373-4125 or Fax: 301-373-4128 for a price quote. Office hours are: Monday thru Friday 8am - 4pm. The County Times is published each Thursday.

Classifieds Real Estate

Law Offices of

WHERE YOUR LEGAL MATTER-MATTERS

Deadlines for Classifieds are Tuesday at 12 pm.

Don’t spend what you don’t have! www.ProfessorMoneyWise.com

(301) 997-8271

Large, level, corner lot is the setting of this roomy colonial with many features. Pergo in foyer, separate living and dining room with fi replace. Kitchen with upgraded appliances, pantry, and table space. Laundry is easy in this cozy utility room. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. Master is large with walk-in closet. New screened porch, shed with electric and phone, concrete driveway, wrap porch, new a/c and heat pump. Room for garage. Price: $252,500. If interested, please call 301-672-0840.

Real Estate Rentals

Serving the Southern Maryland Area Accepting All Major Credit Cards

Very nice 3 bedroom 1 bath home for rent. Section 8 is accepted. Fenced in yard. No dogs please. Please call 301-481-3052. Price: $1275. 2 bedroom, 1 bath Apartment in Hollywood on Hugh Drive. Apartment is a ground floor unit in 4 unit apartment building. Water and Trash included in rent. The only other utility is electric and will be paid by tenant. No Pets (please do not call and ask me to allow pets), No Section 8, Criminal backgroud check, credit must be good...Call 301-373-8352 for more information. Price: $775.

Help Wanted

301-737-0777 Heating & Air Conditioning “THE HEAT PUMP PEOPLE” 30457 Potomac Way Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 Phone: 301-884-5011

Est. 1982

Lic #12999

snheatingac.com

Prime Rib • Seafood • Sunday Brunch Banquet & Meeting Facilities 23418 Three Notch Road • California, MD 20619 www.lennys.net

Mark’s Electronics Inc Your Electronics Sales & Service Center Computer & Network Service/Sales Security Camera Service/Sales Serving Southern Maryland

PC Repair Fee: $79-$99 Residential Only

New “Business Client” Special!

No hourly Labor charge! Contact us for more details!

www.tsbtechnologies.com

301-475-8711**410-326-4442**301-885-3000

C&C

Cheron Cooper

Photography

Photographer

Creating your Digital Memories Ridge, Maryland 20680 (301) 872-4656 (301) 481-9606 coopandcoopphotography@gmail.com www.candcphotography.org

Sales • Service • Installation Pick - Up & Delivery TV • VCR • Camcorder • Wide Screen TV • Antenas • Dss18’ Sat. Car Stereos • Video Games • Monitors • Home Stereos • Cd/DVD Players

www.marksrepairs.com

301-863-8466

RTE 235 Esperanza Shopping Center 22652 Three Notch Rd. • Lexington Park, Md. 20653

Part-time Physical Therapy Technician positions available in a Lexington Park Outpatient clinic. Must be friendly, outgoing, self-motivated, dependable, and organized with attention to detail. Duties include assisting therapists with patients as needed, cleaning treatment rooms and therapy equipment, laundry, limited front desk duties, and general office upkeep. Please fax resume to Ellie at 301-862-4959 or email to gateaupt@netzero.com. Looking for receptionist for a small construction company in Leonardtown, MD. Needs to be able to answer phone calls, filing, copying, and light computer work. Hours would be 7am to 3pm, Mon-Fri. Construction office experience preferred. Wages commensurate with experience. Either fax 301475-5752 or e-mail jlw.associates@verizon.net your resumes.

Vehicles 2003 Chevrolet S-10. Extended cab 3 door, MD. inspec., Linex bed liner, 4.3 L V-6 oil changed every 4K, new tires. Excellent maintenance. Removable bed rack. My cell: 240-298-7957. Price: $7,800. 2002 Ford Windstar Limited Maryland State inspected ready to put on the road. New front brakes. New rear brakes, drums and wheel cylinders. new windshield 410-588-6721. Price: $4100.

CORVETTES WANTED! Any year, any condition. Cash buyer. 1-800-369-6148.

Important The County Times will not be held responsible for any ads omitted for any reason. The County Times reserves the right to edit or reject any classified ad not meeting the standards of The County Times. It is your responsiblity to check the ad on its first publication and call us if a mistake is found. We will correct your ad only if notified after the first day of the first publication ran.

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

ewsmakers Marshall Named 1st

" "

Runner Up in Teen Pageant Samantha Leigh Marshall, 15, of California, earned several awards when she competed as a state finalist in the Miss Maryland American Junior Teen Pageant on July 8-10 in Camp Hill, Pa. Contestants were scored in three major categories â&#x20AC;&#x201C; escorted formal wear, personal introduction, and personal interviews with each of the judges. Marshall, a sophomore at Great Mills High School, received a trophy and roses when she was selected as 1st runner up in the overall competition. Marshall also participated in several additional pageant competitions including cheerleading, talent, actress, modeling, spokesmodel (speech), and Spirit of America. She received a trophy and cash prize for winning the combined Junior Teen â &#x201E;Teen Talent Competition with her self-choreographed tap dance routine. She also received a trophy and cash prize for winning the combined Junior Teen â &#x201E;Teen Spokesmodel (Speech) Competition for her speech on loyalty. She received trophies for being the 1st runner-up in the actress competition, 1st runner-up in the cheer competition, 2nd runner-up in the modeling competition, and for winning the Most Recommendations competition. She also received a Spirit of America trophy and a trophy for being a state finalist. Marshall was crowned with a tiara and received a trophy and a bouquet of roses when she was crowned

! ' # #

Submitted Photo

Samantha Marshall is a sophomore at Great Mills High School.

as the Miss Maryland Jr. Teen Hostess for her outstanding program participation. She qualified to compete at the Miss American Junior Teen National pageant to be held at the Hilton in Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla., in November 2009. Marshall attends Holy Face Catholic Church, where she is an altar server. She has taken ballet, tap, jazz, and show dance classes for 12 years at the Bunny Bailey Studio of Dance. She recently auditioned and was selected for the Senior Show Troupe at Gracieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guys and Gals Dance Studio and is enrolled in several Senior Show Troupe classes to include ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics, and hip hop dance classes. She loves to compete and is on the Mason Dixon competitive gymnastics squad in the St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Recreation and Parks gymnastics program. Submitted Photo She is an honor roll student Samantha Marshall, 15, of California, earned several awards and and sophomore at Great Mills trophies when she competed as a state finalist in the Miss Maryland High School. American Junior Teen Pageant on July 8-10 in Camp Hill, Penn.

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Community

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Benefit for Theresa Parsons

Photo By Sean Rice

Larry Ulm, of Compton, left, and Brian Corbin, of Lexington Park, show off their custom rides on Aug. 22, at a fundraising car show and bikini car wash in Callaway to benefit the 13-year-old son of Theresa Parsons of Lusby, a single mom who died July 29 of breast cancer at only 28 years old. Additional donations for Theresa’s son can be sent to 17107 Clairfield Lane, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772, c/o Terry Parsons. Ulm stands by his 1931 Ford Tudor, and Corbin is with his 2004 custom Scion XB. The event was sponsored by Wicked Intentions Automotive Customs in Callaway.

SARGE

“Hi, my name is Sarge and I’m a gorgeous five year old Black Labrador Retriever. I get along great with just about every animal. My foster home has ferrets, cats, and a smaller dog and we all get along just fine. I love playing with children, swimming, riding in the car and going on walks. I’d make a perfect family dog! I’m up to date on vaccinations, neutered, house trained, and identification micro chipped. For more information, please contact Kathy at katmc@secondhoperescue.org or call Second Hope Rescue at 240-925-0628. Ask about reduced adoption fees for Second Hope Rescue’s Blue Light Give a Dog a Home Adoptathon, going on now until September 30, 2009.

Please Adopt, Don’t Shop!”

Wounded Warrior Music Festival Rained Out By Andrea Shiell Staff Writer Saturday’s music festival to support the Wounded Warrior Project, a national organization that assists wounded combatants with supplies, prosthetics and physical therapy, promised to be a big draw, but unfortunately Mother Nature seemed to have other ideas as storms drowned out the event, which was to be held at the St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge. John Winters, a past president of the St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge, said that four bands were scheduled to play: Below Six, Others May Fall, guitarist Steve Caldwell and ShallowDeep, which was scheduled to headline the show. “We started planning this a year ago when we set the whole year for the schedule … so we’d re-

ally just like to thank the bands because they came in for free and donated their time for the Wounded Warrior Project,” Winters said. Other contributors were Personalized Touch Catering from Hollywood and Guy Distributing, which provided beer and liquor. Fred Heather, the director for the Power Jam Music Alliance, provided sound equipment and tents. Heather also heads the committee that organizes the annual Park Rock Fest, which will be held at Chancellor’s Run Regional Park on Sept. 5 and 6. As for the biggest challenge in putting together Satu rd ay’s

event, Winters said his only concern had been the weather. “We can control everything, but not Mother Nature,” he said. The Elks Lodge is hoping to raise $20,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project with a year of scheduled events, including a dinner and Elvis impersonator show on Sept. 19, an Oktoberfest celebration on Oct. 17, and a charity ball on Nov. 21. In the meantime those present still took some time to enjoy

themselves as the bands moved inside for a short, informal acoustic set before leaving. Winters said they had no rain date scheduled, but that they planned to do another music festival in the future. “We’ll do it again, definitely,” he said.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

Girl Scouts – Please Join Us

Surprise Visit

www.girlscout4u.org

The Girl Scouts will hold their annual Girl Scout Information Sessions throughout St. Mary’s County during your school’s Back to School Night! A flyer with more information will be sent home with students during the first few weeks of school. Girl Scout Information Sessions are open to all adults and girls interested in finding out more about Girl Scouting in their community. Information will be available about getting involved as an adult and a girl. Girl Scouting is for all girls in grades K-12. As a girl in Girl Scouting if you can dream it with caring and giving adults we can make it happen together! We have a variety of volunteer positions that offer an opportunity to work with other adults or to work with girls. We can work around the time you have to give. Whether it be weekly, monthly, short term or for a

once a year project we have a position for you. You don’t have to be a Mom to be a Girl Scout Volunteer. Our list of volunteers include single individuals, adults from the work force, college students, aunts, uncles, neighbors, members of the Armed Services, teachers, moms, dads and grandparents - if you are a caring adult you can and should be a Girl Scout Volunteer! Our girls need you to help fulfill their dreams. Come to a Girl Scout Information Session near you and find out how! We look forward to seeing you there. Remember Girl Scouting is for everyone! For more information you may call the Girl Scout Office at 301-638-5373; 800-834-1702 ext. 4020 or e-mail at: ldavis@gscnc.org or visit us at www. girlscouts4u.org and click on Girl Scout Night Ticket.

Woodland Indian Discovery Day Celebrate Maryland’s first families on Woodland Indian Discovery Day, Saturday, September 12, 2009 at Historic St. Mary’s City. Children of all ages are invited to try archery, bead making, rattle making, cordage, flint knapping, and other skills practiced by the native Yaocomaco people. Learn about traditional dances from the Tayac Territory Dancers and try some steps with the dancers. Discover how the Woodland Indians made stone tools, cured animal hides for clothing, started fires without matches, and cooked over an open fire.

Event hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Special activities are included in general admission to the museum: $10.00 adult, $6 students, $8 seniors, and $3.50 for children age 6-12. Children 5 and younger visit free. Historic St. Mary’s City is a museum of living history and archaeology located in scenic tidewater Southern Maryland. For more information, call 1-800-762-1634, 240-895-4990, or visit the museum’s web site, www.stmaryscity.org.

L ibrary Items • Movie series ends Friday The Afternoon Movie Musical series at Lexington Park ends this Friday, Aug. 28, at 2 p.m. with “Mama Mia!”, a romantic comedy in which Sophie invites three fellows who might be her father to her mom’s Greek island for her wedding. Free, snacks provided. • Adventure Passport ends Monday Aug. 31 is the last day for children to bring in their stamped Adventure Passports to receive a free Bruster’s ice cream coupon and earn chances for Sally Walker’s book, Written in Bone. Children ages 5-12 can still pick up an Adventure Passport at any library and visit five of the 10 sites listed to qualify. • Basic computer skills classes New computer users can register for free classes at Lexington Park Library from 2-4 p.m.: Introduction to Comput-

ers, Sept. 2; Introduction to Windows, Sept. 9; Introduction to the Internet, Sept. 16; and Introduction to E-mail, Sept. 23. Introduction to Keyboarding is being offered Sept. 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. • Teens invited to TAG meetings The TAG (Teen Advisory Group) will meet at Lexington Park at 4 p.m. on Sept. 1; at Charlotte Hall at 5 p.m. on Sept. 10 and at Leonardtown at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 10. Teens are invited to help plan teen library programs and meet other teens. Snacks provided. • Library card boosts performance Studies show that children who use the library regularly perform better in school. Library cards can be obtained at any branch or online. Proof of address is required.

Photo Submitted By Tom Gasch

On Aug. 18 seven ladies from the Company 9 Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Department Ladies’ Auxiliary paid a surprise visit to 95-year-old Helen Smith, their oldest living member, at the St. Mary’s County Nursing Center in Leonardtown to have an informal reunion. Pictured in the front row from left to right: Sue Powell, Helen Smith and Ruth Baldwin. In the back row: Judy Powell, Paula Ayres, Gwen Philpot, Marilyn Statler and Doris Lehman.

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Women’s Softball News Soccer/Roller Hockey Registration The county’s Recreation & Parks department will be holding registration for Adult Indoor Soccer and Adult Roller Hockey at Leonard Hall Recreation Center on Thursday, Sept. 3, 7-9 p.m. For more information, go to the Recreation & Parks Web site at http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/recreate/sportshome.asp or call Kenny Sothoron at 301-475-4200, ext. 1830.

Ice Hockey Registration Registration is under way for Southern Maryland Sabres recreational ice hockey. Register in person from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sept. 8 and Sept. 10 at the Capital Clubhouse in Waldorf or register online at www.somdsabres.org. The Southern Maryland Sabres Hockey Club recreational program is designed to provide hockey players an opportunity to learn and develop skills in a team setting; it is also designed to assure equal opportunity to participate for all skill levels. Players of all skill levels are welcome; no tryouts required.

The cost is $500 for the Mite/ Atom Cross-Ice Program (18 practices, jamborees, monthly skills’ clinics) and $750 for the Squirts/PeeWee, Bantam program (18 practices, 8 home games, tournament). The season begins in October and runs through the end of February/early March. Rec teams participate in the Capital Corridor Hockey League, which is part of the Southeastern District of USA Hockey (www.usahockey.com). The Sabres’ home arena is the Capital Clubhouse in Waldorf (www. capitalclubhouse.com).

Girls Lacrosse Tryouts Coming The Jets Elite travel lacrosse club will be conducting tryouts Oct. 4 and/or Nov. 1, Dorsey Park, football field. High school graduation years 2011/12/13/14 – 9 a.m.-12 p.m., High school graduation years 2015/16/17 - 1:00pm-4:00pm. For more information, go to www.jetslax.com or contact Ken McIlhenny at 301-994-1893.

Games Through Tues., Aug 25

Women’s League Standings Division I 1. CCE 2. Just Us 3. Bud Light 4. Southern

Wins 23 20 19 20

Losses 2 2 3 4

Games Back 0 1.5 2.5 2.5

Wins 19 12 13 10 10 7

Losses 7 10 11 12 12 14

Games Back 0 5 5 7 7 9.5

Wins 5 3 2 1

Losses 20 22 22 23

Games Back 0 2 2.5 3.5

Division II 1. Back Road 2. Knight Life 3. Anderson’s 4. Capt. Sam’s 5. Simms 6. DDI

Division III 1. Xtreme 2. Knockouts 3. Coor Light 4. Moose

Women’s Regular Season Schedule Mon., Aug. 31 Bud Light vs. Just Us at Chancellor’s Run Park, 6:30 p.m. Dew Drop/Two Point Construction/ PJ’s Autobody/Bryan Jones Paint vs. Captain Sam’s at Captain Sam’s, 6:30 p.m. Dew Drop/Two Point Construction/ PJ’s Autobody/Bryan Jones Paint vs. Simms at The Brass Rail, 8 p.m.

Wed., Sept. 2 Southern vs. Bud Light at Chancellor’s Run Park, 6:30 p.m. Chesapeake Custom Embroidery vs. Just Us at Chancellor’s Run Park, 6:30 p.m. Knight Life vs. Simms at The Brass Rail, 6:30 p.m. Knight Life vs. Captain Sam’s at The Brass Rail, 7 p.m.

End of Regular Season

Public Meeting About Youth Football The Recreation and Parks Citizen Advisory Board monthly meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Sept.3, at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street, located on the Governmental Center campus in Leonardtown. A presentation that outlines the proposed future role of Recreation and Parks in the management of St. Mary’s County youth football will begin at 6:30 p.m. Interested youth football league volunteers and parents are invited to attend to hear this presentation and to express their views. For more information call Kathy Bailey at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1811 or e-mail kathy.bailey@co.saint-marys. md.us.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

The County Times

Herndon Feels Hornets Can Break Through By Chris Stevens Staff Writer After taking a step forward by bouncing Westlake 2-0 in last season’s 3A South first round, Great Mills girls’ soccer coach Amy Herndon is aware of the challenges that face the Hornets in a new region, but she and her team are focused on Southern Maryland Athletic Conference play first. “Our focus is do well in the conference,” Herndon said when asked about Great Mills’ move to the Class 4A Eastern region starting this year. “[Class] 4A is a different brand of competition, but SMAC is our aim right now,” she said. With talented players in virtually every class, Herndon, in her fifth season as head coach of the team, believes the time is right for Great Mills to move up in the conference standings. “It’s going to take them playing together as a team, and I think they’re up to it,” she said. Seniors Jessica Manning, Alison Hallock and Goalkeeper Shannon Barr, juniors Hope Ironmonger and Candice Taiwah and sophomores Brittany Sellers and Courtney Bartsch are the leading returning players, and with a solid nucleus in place, Herndon’s season goals may be well within reach. “I’d like to see more consistency, see the team go .500 and get to the top half of the conference,” she said. “I want to see teams come in and expect a game from us.” Herndon expects to make some Photo By technical adjustments on the field this Chris Stevens season, particularly pursuing and challenging for balls out of the air, a huge key Brittany Sellers, shown here in the Hornets’ 2-0 playoff win over Westlake this past Ocfor Great Mills last season. As the team continues to improve tober, is one player Great Mills coach Amy season by season (the Hornets went from Herndon expects to step up in 2009. two wins to 2007 to six last year), Herndon is encouraged by its progression. “We’ve gotten a lot better over the years,” she said, noting that spring and summer play in various leagues has helped the Hornets become a better team as the season begins. “The program has come a long way.” With the future looking bright for Great Mills girls’ soccer, Herndon is ready for the season and believes her team is also. “Everybody’s working hard and Photo By Chris Stevens happy, they’re very s returning to the optimistic about is one of several junior Candice Taiwah (right) this year as am I,” team. Great Mills girls’ soccer she said.

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Defending State Champ Leonardtown Looking Forward By Chris Stevens Staff Writer

Eversole and Paz, instead of trying to replace the departed seniors, will look to pick up on their leadership skills and guide the Raiders through the regular season and the playoffs. “We looked up to last year’s seniors, so we’re trying to take on their roles that they passed down to us,” Eversole said. Paz, who got the Raiders to the state playoffs with the game-winning goal in the 4A East finals, agreed. “It’s important because we have to motivate the team,” she said of leadership duties. “We’ve been through it already.” Henderson’s expectations are simple – expecting the team to improve each game. “Winning a state championship was an incredible feeling. We will always cherish it,” she said. “But this year’s team will look to create their own identity and their own legacy.”

LEONARDTOWN – The year 2008 was just about a perfect year for the Leonardtown girls’ soccer team – literally. The Raiders capped an 18-0-1 season with a 3-1 victory over Quince Orchard in the 4A championship game this past November, but with 10 of those players now Leonardtown graduates, head coach Jennifer Henderson is aware that it is indeed a brand new year. “It is an honor to be the defending state champion, but it also puts a target on our back,” said Henderson, now entering her 16th season in charge at Leonardtown. “Everyone will be rallying to try and knock us off.” “It’s pretty much a new year,” says senior right defender R a c h el Eversole. “ W e d ef i n i t e l y have high expectations, but we just have to play our game and it will pay off.” “[Last year] is going to influence how we play,” says fellow senior Teresa Paz. “But we’re going to start fresh.” The list of returning players for Leonardtown is impressive (Eversole, Taelar Errington, Paz, Johanna Rambo, Cara McLaughlin and Rachel Lynn head the list), but the players that have graduated is just as important. All-SMAC standouts Emily Gehrig, Alex Evitts and goalkeeper Dana O’Neill are now playing college soccer and Henderson is aware that it will be difficult to replace those players. “You can’t replace the blazing speed of Alex Evitts, the fast footwork of Emily Gehrig and the experienced goalkeeping of Dana O’Neill,” Henderson said. “Those are tough shoes to fill, Photo By Frank Marquart but this year’s playLeonardtown’s Sydney Dishman leads her teammates in exercises during practice ers bring their own on Monday. unique strengths.”

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The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

A View From The

The Brat

BLEACHERS

By Ronald N. Guy Jr. Contributing Writer Kyle Busch knows NASCAR fans don’t like him. But guess what? He doesn’t care. In fact, he relishes his role as racing’s antagonist, its villain. He carries a sense of entitlement rarely found in a sport full of humble drivers who are genuinely honored to compete in motorsports’ crown jewel series. In victory or defeat, Busch is the classic spoiled brat. He’ll introduce your favorite driver to the wall if that’s what it takes to win, soak in the boo birds from bitter fans and smile back with a defiant, smug smirk from victory lane. When he loses he pouts like a 3-year-old, blam-

ing his under-performing car – an indirect shot at his Joe Gibbs Racing team – or your favorite driver for being incompetent and not staying out of his way. For these antics he deserves…are you ready…the deep appreciation of race fans. “What!?!?”, you say? Yes, I realize you’d be hard pressed to find Busch’s #18 sticker in a vehicle’s back window on our Southern Maryland roadways (and if you did it’d probably be at the end of a “nature’s calling rainbow” courtesy a certain comic strip character), but Busch deserves a tip of our caps. I’m serious. Consider this… There is perhaps no mainstream sport that has felt the effects of the economic downturn more than NASCAR. With the cars, drivers and tracks saturated with advertisements, it’s obviously a sport heavily dependent on

the suddenly scarce corporate sponsorship dollar. Unlike baseball, football or basketball – sports played with a rawhide, pigskin and leather ball, respectively – NASCAR requires a car (yes, I am the master of the obvious) to compete and these aren’t the best of times for car manufacturers. It is reasonable to ask if companies receiving federal bailout money should even be involved with recreational sport. Further, in response to economic realities, NASCAR has seen a significant consolidation of teams; a contraction that nearly cost it the name of its “King”, Richard Petty, among its ownership ranks. With that gloomy backdrop, NASCAR needs a reason any reason - to watch. On race day, butts in the seats and eyes on the T.V. are what sells those corporate sponsorships and makes

St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge #2092 Supports the Wounded Warrior Project

2009/2010

To Benefit Wounded Warrior Project

September 19th

50’s Dinner Dance Featuring:

UPCOMING EVENTS:

October 17th Oktoberfest Show & Beer Tasting Tickets: Dinner & Show: $30 per person. Show Only: $20 per person Dinner: 6:00 p.m. Show: 7:00 p.m.

November 7th 5K Walk/Run

November 21st Charity Ball (Black Tie Dinner)

Location to be Determined Rain Date: November 14th

Dinner: 6:00 p.m. Presentation: 7:00 p.m. Entertainment: 8:00 p.m.

Elvis Impersonator

Richard Ernst Dinner at 6:00 p.m.

Tickets: $30 Per Person.

Show at 7:00 p.m

Show Only: $20 Per Person

LODGE # 2092 St. Mary’s County, MD.

301-863-7800

The Greatest Casualty is Being Forgotten... We Thank All of Our Sponsors!

Support Our Mission at bpoe2092.org

NASCAR a viable business model for GM, Chrysler and Ford. In such challenging times you’d like to think a sport could lean on its biggest star to boost its standings on Sportscenter’s nightly countdown, but Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR’s most popular driver, isn’t anywhere near championship-relevant and is rarely in contention. So if you can’t market your “good”, so to speak, the next best thing is to promote your “evil.” It’s not without precedent. What would the show Dallas, Batman and Jesus have been without J.R., the Joker, and the Devil? Hey if a marketable element of evil helped a T.V. show, a famous comic book character and Christianity, it could work for NASCAR too, right? Well, sure, but evil’s hanging by a thread… Despite his win last week at Bristol Motor Speedway, Busch is a precarious 13th in points with two races remaining before NASCAR’s “Chase for the Championship,” a format where the top 12 drivers compete for the Sprint Cup title. With its hero (Earnhardt Jr.) a lost cause, it would behoove everyone for Busch to remain in the championship discussion for the duration of the season. With many of today’s drivers being more polished, humdrum corporate sponsors than raw, uncensored competitors, Busch is a throwback to bristly, unapologetic drivers of yesteryear. Scan the list of the top NASCAR drivers and tell me who moves the needle. Jimmy Johnson, for all his success, quickens no one’s pulse. Even the normally petulant Tony Stewart has become the model of mature behavior now that he’s also a team owner. When “The Chase” starts, I want someone who’s willing to commit ungentlemanly acts and is incapable of controlling his immature behavior…all for the sake of victory. Moreover, I want to be able to contrast good and evil as the plot unfolds. That’s entertaining. And isn’t entertainment the point for sports fans? Kyle Busch knows NASCAR fans don’t like him. Thank goodness he doesn’t care. Send comments to rguyjoon@yahoo.com.

8/27-9/2/2009 Thurs., Aug. 27 Boys’ Soccer Great Mills at North Point (Scrimmage), 4 p.m. Leonardtown at McDonough (Scrimmage), 6 p.m.

Field Hockey Great Mills at La Plata (Scrimmage), 4 p.m.

Girls’ Soccer La Plata at Great Mills (Scrimmage), 4 p.m.

Volleyball Great Mills/Leonardtown at Chopticon (Scrimmage), 4:30 p.m.

Fri., Aug. 28 Boys’ Soccer St. Mary’s Ryken at Archbishop Carroll, 4 p.m.

Football Maret at Great Mills (Scrimmage), 4 p.m. Chopticon at C.H. Flowers (Scrimmage), 5 p.m.

Sat., Aug. 29 Field Hockey St. Mary’s Ryken vs. Huntingtown at Calvert (Scrimmage), 10 a.m.

Football St. Mary’s Ryken at Archbishop Carroll, 2 p.m.

Tues., Sept. 1 Boys’ Soccer St. Mary’s Ryken at Bishop O’Connell, 4 p.m.

Girls’ Soccer Bishop O’Connell at St. Mary’s Ryken, 4 p.m. St. Mary’s Ryken at Severna Park (Scrimmage), 6 p.m.

Volleyball Elizabeth Seton at St. Mary’s Ryken, 6 p.m. Leonardtown at Thomas Stone (Scrimmage), 6 p.m.

Wed., Sept. 2 Cross Country Patuxent at St. Mary’s Ryken (Scrimmage), 4 p.m.

Golf Chopticon vs. Lackey/Westlake at Wicomico Shores, 4 p.m. Great Mills vs. Patuxent/Northern at Twin Shields, 4 p.m. Leonardtown vs. Westlake/North Point/Thomas Stone at Potomac Ridge, 4 p.m.

SPECIAL NOTE: All high school, recreational and youth league coaches, if you would like the scores, statistics and standings from your respective games and leagues to be published, contact Chris Stevens at 301-373-4125 or at chrisstevens@countytimes.net

Thursday, August 27, 2009

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The County Times

Lydon Excited About Raiders’ Chances

Knights Prepare For Second Varsity Season

Photo Courtesy of St. Mary’s Ryken

Ryken football coach Bob Harmon believes his team is ready for their second year of varsity action.

By Chris Stevens Staff Writer LEONARDTOWN – Injuries, a road gameonly schedule and the speed of the varsity game snuck up on the St. Mary’s Ryken football team last fall, but head coach Bob Harmon feels that his team will be better prepared for the challenge this time around. “Our kids are bigger, faster and stronger with a year under their belt,” Harmon said of his Knights, who won their first-ever varsity game 35-0 over Annapolis Area Christian Academy before dropping their final eight games last season. Photo By Chris Stevens

Senior Forward Kristin Kauffman is expected to lead the Leonardtown field hockey team as they compete for the SMAC title this season.

By Chris Stevens Staff Writer With one of the most successful seasons in Leonardtown field hockey behind her, head coach Vicki Lydon believes her team will continue their success this fall. “We went 10-2 last year, we only lost to Great Mills and Patuxent,” Lydon said of last season, which saw the Raiders make moves towards become Southern Maryland Athletic Conference title contenders. “They worked very hard last year and they had nothing to be ashamed of losing to those two teams.” For 2009, the Raiders will work hard towards winning the SMAC, but not too hard, as Lydon believes that too much work for not enough results was Leonardtown’s undoing last season. “Coach [Mia] Finkleston said that ‘We’re working too hard for few goals,’” Lydon says of the offensive output. “This year, we’re trying to get them to work on that without beating themselves up.” For the Raiders to return to peak form, Lydon will look to an experienced group of girls, with forward Kristin Kauffman leading seven seniors and 13 juniors this season. Leonardtown will more than likely do well in SMAC play, but the 4A East

Regional playoffs have been a thorn in the side of the Raiders the previous two seasons. After a 9-0 first round loss to South River in 2007, Leonardtown won their first game, beating Old Mill 2-1 at home before falling to Broadneck 5-0 in the regional semi-finals. “Down here, everyone is evenly matched,” Lydon said, “but when you get to the playoffs and go up the road, they have nice fields.” Nice fields brings up the question of turf, which is still a dream for the most part in Southern Maryland. The game on natural grass and turf are two extremes that most teams in this area have a hard time preparing for. “It is discouraging,” Lydon says of the trouble Southern Maryland schools have competing with Anne Arundel County’s field hockey powers. “But you can’t project that, you have to tell the players not to get down and to play hard.” Lydon’s expectations are very simple, and she believes her players can live up to them. “As long as they go out and play hard and give 100 percent, I’ll be proud of them,” Lydon says. “They come out and give their best effort and as a coach, you can’t ask for more.”

Photo Courtesy of St. Mary’s Ryken

John Smith IV comes down with a catch in a game last season. The Knights are looking forward to the coming season as they are stronger and will play home games in 2009.

St. Mary’s Ryken 2009 Football Sche dule

Sat., Aug. 29 @Arch bishop Fri., Sept. 4 @ Paul Carroll, 2 p.m. VI, 7 p.m. Fri., Sept. 11 vs. M t. Zion Baptist @ Lancaster Pa Sat., Sept. 19 @ Bis rk, 7:30 p.m. hop Fri., Sept. 25 vs. Sid O’Connell, 2 p.m. well Friends @ Lancaster Pa Fri., Oct. 9 vs. Liber rk, 7:30 p.m. ty Christian Academ y@ Lancaste Sat., Oct. 24 at Po r Park, 7:30 p.m. pe John Fri., Oct. 30 vs. Rive Paul The Great, 2 p.m. rdale Lancaster Park, 7:3 Baptist @ Fri., Nov. 6 vs. Bisho 0 p.m. p Ireton @ Lancaster Pa Fri., Nov 13 @ The rk, 7:30 p.m. Bullis School, 7:30 p.m.

“I’m not going to put a wins and losses mark out there, but I expect us to compete and be in every game this year.” The Knights will have an added advantage this year in that their travel time will be drastically cut short. In 2008, Ryken played all nine games on the road, logging over 1,000 miles of travel. While the school’s new football stadium is under construction, the Knights will play home games at Lancaster Field in Lexington Park this season, starting with a Sept. 11 game against Mount Zion Baptist of Baltimore. “On the bus, we would joke around, lose focus and not be ready for the game,” said senior defensive back Peter Martin. “[Having a home field] will give us a lot more focus.” Offensively, the Knights are happy to have senior Chris Rixey, who broke his leg early last season, back at quarterback. In the eyes of Knights QB coach Darren Denio, Rixey is ready to lead the Ryken offense this season. “He is a great kid to work with, he has come back from his injury,” Denio says. “It was important for us to get that year of varsity so we can see how hard we had to work,” Rixey said. “We played slow last year, but this time we know what to expect.” The Knights put in some serious effort in improving their condition, which senior lineman Mike Elton believes will help Ryken tremendously this season. “We went into last year like it wasn’t going to be hard for us,” he explains. “We knew we had to be prepared better, so we went into the weight room.” The players’ focus this summer gives Harmon confidence for the coming season. “I think we have the athletes to win some games. I felt last year, we got dinged up early on,” he said. “I just want our kids to be in every game, just to stand up and be counted and play hard.”

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

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Cardiac Crabs Rally For Another Extra Inning Win Bridgewater, NJ – The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs defeated the Somerset Patriots 6-5 in 12 innings at TD Bank Ballpark on Tuesday evening. Southern Maryland also defeated the Patriots 7-6 in 10 innings on Monday night. The Blue Crabs broke a 4-4 tie in the top of the twelfth inning. Second baseman Mike Just singled and scored on a two-run home run by third baseman Patrick Osborn (12) for the 6-4 lead. Somerset rallied for a run in the bottom of the twelfth inning to cut the lead to the 6-5 final on three straight singles by catcher Travis Anderson, center fielder Mike Rodriguez, and left fielder Elliott Ayala. Somerset took an early lead in the bottom of the first inning after first baseman Josh Pressley doubled and scored on an RBI single by designated hitter Matt Hagen for the 1-0 advantage. The Patriots scored in the bottom of the fourth inning after second baseman Teuris Olivares doubled and scored on an RBI single by Anderson to make the score 2-0.

Somerset added to their lead in the bottom of the seventh inning after a solo homerun by right fielder Joe Burke (3) to make the score 3-0. The Patriots scored in the bottom of the eighth inning after Olivares walked, advanced to third on an error, and scored on a sacrifice fly by Rodriguez for the 4-0 lead. The Blue Crabs tied the game in the top of the ninth inning. Just walked, then first baseman Michael Tucker (3) hit a two run homerun, designated hitter Ken Harvey walked, center fielder Jeremy Owens walked, and both runners came around to score on an RBI double by left fielder Richard Giannotti to make the score 4-4. Blue Crabs reliever Matt Schweitzer (50) picked up the win after 1.1 scoreless innings. Patriots reliever Kip Bouknight (4-7) suffered the loss after allowing two earned runs on four hits in 3.2 innings pitched. Paul Estrada earned his second save for the Blue Crabs.

Final Three Sunday Home Games Moved to 5:05 p.m. The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have announced they are pushing back the first pitch of two more Sunday home games at Regency Furniture Stadium. The August 30 game against the Bridgeport Bluefish originally scheduled for 2:05 p.m. will now begin at 5:05 p.m. The September 13 game against the Somerset Patriots has also been moved back from 2:05 to 5:05. There are no additional changes to the Blue Crabs home schedule at this time. The changes come after good feedback to the organization pushing back this past Sunday’s game, a 6-4 win over the Newark Bears, from 2:05 to 5:05 p.m. The team has also previously changed the Sunday, September 6 game against Somerset to 5:05 p.m. as well, the evening before Labor Day. “When speaking with our fans this past

Sunday, overall they seemed very pleased with our decision to have the game in the early evening,” said Blue Crabs General Manager Chris Allen. “The weather is a little cooler and more enjoyable that time of day, and we felt our crowd was very good so it makes sense to play all three of our remaining Sunday home games at 5:05 p.m. this season,” continued Allen. Fans who have planned group outings to these particular games and have questions about the changes in schedule should contact their Blue Crabs group sales representative by calling the front office at 301638-9788. Any other questions or concerns should also be directed to that number.

Atlantic Baseball League Standings (For games through Tues., August 25)

LIBERTY DIVISION Southern Maryland Bridgeport Long Island Camden

W 28 23 22 20

L 15 22 23 25

PCT .651 .511 .489 .444

FREEDOM DIVISION Somerset Newark York Lancaster

W 27 23 18 17

L 17 21 28 27

PCT .614 .523 .391 .386

6.0 7.0 9.0

4.0 10.0 10.0

STREAK LAST 10 W6 8- 2 W2 4- 6 W1 6- 4 L1 5- 5 STREAK LAST 10 L2 4- 6 L5 3- 7 W2 5- 5 L2 3- 7

The County Times

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Correll Has High Hopes For Raider Volleyball Team By Chris Stevens Staff Writer

Ph oto By Ch ris

Ste ve ns

LEONARDTOWN – After a 4A East Regional Final Appearance in 2007 and a semi-final appearance last year, Leonardtown volleyball coach Steve Correll says his team has the desire and the talent necessary to continue its quest to make the state playoffs. “Our girls have a wonderful attitude and they’re willing to work hard,” Correll says. “They want to take it to the next level.” It won’t be easy for the Raiders, as they graduated several key athletes, but returning to the fold are the Peters sisters, junior libero Monica and senior outside hitter Roni. Jessica Mare and Amanda Katulich are also returning players who will pick up the slack, but Correll feels that everyone will have to contribute if the Raiders are to contend for a SMAC title and make noise in the post-season. “I expect all of them to step up,” he says. “We want to be a team of one, be Army strong. We have to play together

Stephanie Hall is one of many head coach Steve Correll is counting on to be, in his words, “Army Strong.”

as a team, and at this point I think we are a team.” Going up against conference competition is never easy, and it doesn’t hurt Calvert County schools when they have a middle school program that has surely benefited Northern and Huntingtown, as Photo By Chris Stevens they constantly Head coach Steve Correll is pleased with the are contendway the Leonardtown volleyball team has ers in class 3 A ’ s come together during early practices. Southern Region. “Those girls have good coaching at an early age, and it makes them stronger,” Correll said of the neighboring county’s program. “We have freshman girls who have only played in phys ed, and that’s just not going to get it done.” Even with a fairly young roster, Correll believes that individual goals are not even a thought with his girls. “I have a strong returning nucleus; they know what it takes to be successPhoto By Chris Stevens ful,” he said. “It’s all about ‘How can I help Senior Roni Peters returns to a Raiders team that has at least made the 4A East semifinals in each of the the team?’” past two seasons.

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Rain, Mud Make For a Tough Race at Budds Creek

Photo By Karl Cin

Racers take off at the Lucas Oil Pro AMA Motocross Championship at Budds Creek Motocross Park.

By Danielle Crowder Contributing Writer Round 10 of 12 of the Lucas Oil Pro AMA Motocross Championship came though Budds Creek Motocross Park over the weekend. The forecast for race day was bleak with thunderstorms looming on the horizon. However, the gloomy forecast did not stop large crowds of fans from coming out to see their favorite riders in action. In the 450 class, series points leader Chad Reed of Team Rockstar Makita Suzuki was holding an 85-point lead coming into this weekend. While in the 250 class, points leader Christophe Pourcel of Team Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki was holding a six-point lead over Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey.

450 Moto 1

The moto started with Davi Millsaps moving into the lead on the first lap and trying to sprint away. Meanwhile Chad Reed started back in 10th place. As the moto wound down, fans cheered as Chad Reed put in a valiant effort closing the gap on Millsaps. However, Reed was unable to make the pass giving the victory to Millsaps. Rounding out the podium was Factory Yamaha’s newest rider, Matt Goerke.

250 Moto 1

Leading the way on the first lap was Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Jake Weimer. He led until Lap Six when he was passed by his teammate Christophe Pourcel. Hot on the Pro Circuit duo’s heels was Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey. The three finished in that order; Christophe Pourcel taking the win followed by Jake Weimer in second and Ryan Dungey rounding out the podium in third.

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B oto Ph 450 Moto 2

In this moto, Chad Reed was able to pull the holeshot only to be passed in the second corner by Honda Red bull Racing’s Ivan Tedesco. On Lap Five the crowd watched as Chad Reed passed Ivan Tedesco for the lead and go on to victory. Unfortunately for Tedesco, late in the moto he fell back to third after being passed by a hard charging Canidae Motosport.

Eric McKay

Photo By Karl Cin

com Kawasaki rider Tommy Hahn. Hahn held on to second giving him fifth overall on the day. With Reed securing the win for the day and his series point rival Honda Red bull Racing’s Andrew Short having an off day in 8th overall, Reed extended his points lead to 104. Since only 100 points remain up for grabs for the remainder of the season, Reed was able to win his first career Motocross Championship 2 weeks early.

250 Moto 2

Unfortunately the weather finally broke and heavy rain soaked the 250 class riders before the start of the second moto. After a false start was red flagged, fans watched as Geico Power sports Honda Rider Brett Metcalfe pulled the holeshot in the mud. Metcalfe led the whole race until being passed on the final lap by Monster Energy Pro circuit Kawasaki’s Jake Weimer. Metcalfe was able to hold on to second, giving Weimer the moto and overall win for the day. Finishing third was Weimer’s teammate Christophe Pourcel. Even though he rode the whole race with a broken brake lever, Pourcel was able to finish the day second overall and extend his points lead to 13 over Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey. Local professionals including Eric McKay, Kenny Day, Stephen Stella, Robert Kraft and Randall Everett attempted to qualify for Saturday’s race. Only Stephen Stella made the main event, finishing 37th overall in the 250 class. Although McKay, Day, Kraft and Everett did not qualify they put in an impressive effort. They only missed qualifying for the main event by a few seconds. Next weekend the series heads to Southwick, MA for round 11 of the Lucas Oil Pro AMA Motocross Championship.

THURSDAY August 27, 2009

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