The County Times -- Nov. 5, 2009 by David Noss

www.somd.com

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Lions Maintain MeMory of the faLLen Page 16

Commissioner’s Son Dies Story Page 4

Local Delegates Differ On State Deficit Story Page 5

Free Tuition – Guaranteed Job Story Page 6

Photo by Frank Marquart

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

d o o f a e S

* We Accept Most Major Credit Cards

23860 Hollywood Rd. Hollywood, MD 20636 Phone: (301) 475-2531

23415 Three Notch Road California, MD 20619 Phone: (301) 866-5702

Which flu shot do you plan to get this year?

40845 Merchants Lane Suite 100 Leonardtown, MD 20650 Phone: (301) 997-1828

Nancy Kuzmick, 61, said she wasn’t planning to get either shot. “I have never gotten flu shots. I just never have, and I never catch the flu,” she said.

Friday, November 6 & Saturday, November 7, 2009 U.S.D.A.

26/30 Ct. Raw Gulf Extra Large Shrimp

Frozen Canadian Snow Crab Leg Clusters

U.S.A. - Wild Caught

20/24 ct.

Frozen King Crab Leg

5.88 4.88 3.98 7.98

lb.

Pasteurized

Scored

Seabest Lump Crab Meat

Frozen Salmon Fillets

U-10 Ct.

Wild Caught Sea Scallops

1 Lb. Ctnr.

Per Pound

lb.

Fresh Catch East Coast

1.25 Lb. Pkg.

Cod Fillets (8-12 oz. Average)

7.98 8.99 4.89 5.98

Ea.

lb.

(LIMIT 4)

Fresh Catch

Salmon Fillets

Fresh Oysters

Fresh Catch

Catfish Fillets

Fresh Catch

Tilapia Fillets

(5-11 oz. Average)

Pint

8.88

Each

(5-7 oz. Average)

5.98 4.98 4.98

lb.

Fresh Oysters

Quarts

19.88

Each

• WHILE SUPPLY LASTS • PHONE ORDERS ACCEPTED

10 A.M. to 6 P.M.

Garry Stiegman, 48, a program manager for a defense contractor in the area, said he planned to get vaccinated. “I’ll get both, just because it seems to be prudent,” he said.

• Quantity Rights Reserved • Not Responsible For Typographical Errors

County Wide Poll

30 25 20 15 10 5 0

20% 14% 33% 33% H1N1

16/20 Ct. Raw Gulf Extra Jumbo Shrimp

8 and Up Count

Seasonal

U.S.D.C.

Neither

46075 Signature Lane Lexington Park, MD 20653 Phone: (301) 862-7702

Your Paper... Your Thoughts

Both

37670 Mohawk Drive Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 Phone: (301) 884-5636

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.

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

On T he Covers

The Good Witch of the North was at St. Mary’s Square for its fall festival. More good folks will be showing up this weekend for a cleanup day on the Square. SEE PAGE 20

Weather

Watch

“A lt hough ON THE FRONT t his ha s been Leonardtown Lions Club members Mac McGuyre, left, Charlie Breck, Dick Russell, Bernie Beavan, Kirk Stera contentious ling, John Madel and Kennedy Abell in front of the war proceeding memorial in Leonardtown. at times … I ON THE BACK look for wa rd St. Mary’s College men’s basketball captains, clockwise from bottom, Camontae Griffin, Alex Franz, Mike to work ing Fitzpatrick, and Mike Bowden, prepare for the coming season. wit h Constellation … on Also Inside sports t he a nticipated Great Mills High School’s hope for football playoffs 4 County News construction of were dashed with a loss to North Point on Friday 7 Editorial/Opinion Ca lver t Clif fs night. SEE PAGE 30 8 Money III.” 9 Defense and Military - Gov. Ma rtin O’Ma lley, on t he state approva l of a merger bet ween Constellation a nd EDF. education

Stock Market

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

Author John Jay Bonstingl listens to a presentation by Lexington Park Elementary School fifth graders on their plans to improve their school. SEE PAGE 14

10 12 14 16 17 19 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 30

Obituaries Crime and Punishment Education On The Cover Newsmakers Community Community Calendar History Wandering Minds Entertainment Games Bleachers Soccer Basketball Football

Do You Feel Crabby When You Get Your Insurance Bill in the Mail? Give Us A Call.

You’ll Be Glad You Did.

An Independent Agent Representing: ERIE INSURANCE GROUP Sitting left to right: Lisa Squires, Susan Ennis, Katie Facchina. Standing left to right; Gary Simpson, Dan Burris, Jake Kuntz.

April Hancock PO Box 407 Bryans Road, MD 20616 301-743-9000

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

P.O. Box 250 • Hollywood, Maryland 20636 News, Advertising, Circulation, Classifieds: 301-373-4125

James Manning McKay - Founder Eric McKay -Associate Publisher..................................ericmckay@countytimes.net Tobie Pulliam - Office Manager..............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.net Virginia Terhune - Editor..................................virginiaterhune@countytimes.net Sean Rice - Associate Editor.....................................................seanrice@countytimes.net Angie Stalcup - Graphic Artist.......................................angiestalcup@countytimes.net Andrea Shiell - Reporter - Education, Entertainment...andreashiell@countytimes.net Chris Stevens - Reporter - Sports......................................chrisstevens@countytimes.net Guy Leonard - Reporter - Government, Crime...............guyleonard@countytimes.net Sales Representatives......................................................................sales@countytimes.net

The County Times

ews

Wood frogs can be frozen solid and then thawed, and continue living. They use the glucose in their body to protect their vital organs while they are in a frozen state.

Vet Home Changes Will Be Highlighted By Joany Nazdin Contributing Writer

There have been a lot of changes at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home in the last few years, and to show off all that is new, the Veterans Home is having its fifth annual open house on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “We like to think of this as a opportunity for veterans and their families to do some one-stop shopping,” said Katie Coughlan, director of volunteer and community services at the center. “We just want to show people what is available to them, whether our services are something they may need now, or something that may be coming down the pike.” Eligible for admission to the complex are Maryland veterans, 62 years or older, who served on full-time active duty in the U.S. armed forces with honorable discharges. Also eligible are certain non-veteran spouses and members of the reserves, and disabled veterans of any age who are unable to work and receiving benefits. The highlight will be scheduled tours, which will give visitors a chance to see what is new and improved at the home, which sits on 162 acres on Charlotte Hall Road off Route 5.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The dietary department will also get its chance to show off its cooking skills by catering the event. On the menu will be hot brunch items and appetizers, such as shrimp skewers, mini quiches, baconwrapped scallops, and fresh fruit trays. The free event will also feature more than 20 vendors with products and services for seniors, families and caregivers. The Charlotte Hall Veterans Home is the only facility of its kind in Maryland, and it currently has 462 beds, with 396 residents, 26 of whom are women, who live in long-term care and assisted living quarters. New services include a dental suite, now under construction, that will open by the end of the year, enabling residents who now go off site for appointments to receive dental care on site. Also new is the center’s shift, now almost complete, to paperless medical records. The center has a history room for those who wish to tell their stories for future generations. A hall of fame features the residents who live at CHVH and collages of their accomplishments. One of the more unique collages features a trio of sisters. The sisters were triplets, and they joined the military and all became nurses. In addition to learning more about the building and services, visitors will also have a chance to talk to volunteers who spend their free time doing things such as setting up woodworking shops and computer classes for the veterans. volun John Curran of Prince Frederick is in his ninth year as a volunteer. He runs the CHVH camera club, and has about 16 veterans who come to download pictures, work up slide shows, and just have fun with their cameras. “I just wanted to give the veterans something to do with their idle time,” Curran said. “It used to kill me when I would come visit, and there were guys lining up for lunch at 10:30 because there was nothing else for them to do.” For more information about the facility, go to www. charhall.org.

un Fact

Commissioner’s Son Dies

Joseph “Jody” Dement, 45, a son of St. Mary’s County Commissioner Kenny Dement, died Tuesday afternoon in the intensive care unit of St. Mary’s Hospital. He was working at Food Lion in Callaway on Tuesday morning when struck with an epileptic seizure from which he did not recover, the family confirmed. “He never knew anything from the time the seizure started, so he didn’t suffer,” Kenny Dement told The County Times. “He loved to work, and sports,” he added. “If you ever knew Jody, you’d never forget him. He was just one of a kind.” Kenny Dement lost his wife in April this year, and his oldest son, Kenny Jr., died in 1998. He said his son had seizures for nearly all of his life, “but this one he just didn’t come out of it.” “He didn’t have an enemy in the world, just a great boy,” Dement said, adding that Jody graduated from the Green Holly School. A celebration of Jody’s life will be held from 2-5 p.m. Sunday at Brinsfield Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Monday at Holy Face Catholic Church in Great Mills. He is survived by his wife Lisa of Callaway; his father, Kenny Dement; brothers, Michael and Jeff of Leonardtown, and Ronnie Dement, of the state of California. He was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Dement, and his older brother, Kenny Dement Jr. A full obituary will appear in the next issue of The County Times. Friends are posting condolences on the Web site of Brinsfield Funeral Home at www.brinsfieldecholsfuneral.com.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The County Times

ews

Homeless Report Calls For More Delegates Differ On County Spending Action But Numbers In Question By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer A new report on the state of homelessness in the county offers a three-year strategy to combat what officials believe is a growing problem. However, the latest numbers on just how many homeless people there are in St. Mary’s County remain unclear. The new report by the county Department of Human Services recommends that the county develop a single point for getting homeless people – estimated at between 1,000 and 2,000, many of them women and children – into a system of care with access to help in paying rent and utility bills. The Board of County Commissioners voted to adopt that report and its recommendations Tuesday at their regular meeting. For homeless people already in shelters, the report recommends that they receive greater life skills training during their stay and also getting those in shelters out into transitional housing as soon as possible. There are currently two shelters in St. Mary’s County – Three Oaks in Lexington Park and Leah’s House in Valley Lee. People are also referred to Angel’s Watch run by Catholic Charities in Hughesville, or placed in motels if shelters are full. Greater coordination between agencies providing for the homeless was also a priority, the report states. In the meantime, the number of homeless people in St. Mary’s County remains undetermined. A one-day, Point-In-Time survey of the homeless population taken in January indicates the numbers are down dramatically from 2008 figures, but officials are wary because the latest number might not be accurate. The 2008 Point-In-Time survey showed there were 1,884 homeless people in the county. The 2009 survey showed there were 1,198 residents in some state of homelessness here, a drop of nearly 700 people from last year. Julie Ohman, mental health coordinator with the Department of Human Services and chairwoman of the county’s Homeless Prevention Board, said that there were agencies that did not participate in the survey this year because of lack of staff or funding problems, and that could have had a detrimental effect on the survey’s results. Also, inconsistencies in how the information is recorded by staff from various agencies could have contributed to the drop in numbers of the latest survey, Ohman said.

The Point-In Time surveys are used by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development to determine the level of funding for homeless programs. Despite the broad change in the number, it is still valid for federal use, she said. “HUD considers it statistically reliable,” she said. “It does change from year to year.” Lanny Lancaster, director of the Three Oaks Shelter in Lexington Park, said that the number was likely unreliable and probably higher. “It should be and it probably is,” Lancaster said. At the Tuesday meeting the director of the Department of Human Services offered similar comments. “I don’t think that the numbers show we have a significant reduction in the homeless population,” Bennett Connelly said. Lancaster also said that since the number of homeless was up overall in the Southern Maryland region, HUD funding would likely not drop, even though the numbers in one county were lower. Commissioner President Francis “Jack” Russell (D-St. George’s Island) said that the homeless problem had to be addressed regardless of the number. “Whether it’s 1,000 or 500, there’s a need,” he said. Three Oaks recently received about $176,000 in federal stimulus money to prevent homelessness by providing qualified applicants with rent and security deposit money to keep them in a home, Lancaster said. The county Housing Authority is also slated to receive $152,668 in federal stimulus money for homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing. Recent reports from county agencies suggest that more people are seeking unemployment benefits and job assistance, which could indicate the numbers of people losing or in danger of losing their homes could be on the rise. The Human Services report shows that there is also a 50 percent increase in the number of people seeking help because of foreclosures in the tri-county area. Most of the county’s homeless population is found in Lexington Park, with the Leonardtown area coming in second. Of the nearly 1,200 people listed as homeless in the county now, 85 are sheltered in some kind of transitional housing, while 92 are staying in emergency shelters, Ohman said. The remainder, 1,021 people, are either living on the streets or have no fixed address, she said.

Southern Maryland delegates have different takes on the deficit the state faces in 2011. Del. Anthony O’Donnell (R-Dist. 29C) says that the shortfall is about $3 billion, while his counterpart on the other side of the aisle, Del. John Bohanan (D-Dist.29B), says it’s more like $2 billion. O’Donnell also cautioned the Board of County Commissioners at a Tuesday night meeting about legislative proposals to not borrow as much as $25 million from the bond market to fund capital construction projects. Bohanan said the county has been prudent in using its borrowing practices and needs the money to fund much needed projects like the county’s jail expansion. “Now is not the time to be borrowing more money,” O’Donnell told The County Times, referring to the massive gap the state must close to balance the budget as required by law. “The state has overspent in my opinion, every time we get a revenue statement it seems to get worse.” O’Donnell also said leadership in Annapolis was looking to appoint a panel of nine senators and nine delegates to examine the funding relationships between counties, municipalities and the state. “That’s not a good omen,” he said. But Bohanan said that with federal stimulus money committed to the state, the actual deficit figure is much less.

New location! St. Mary’s Hospital’s Diabetes Education program is hosting our 7th Annual Diabetes Health Fair at the Lexington Park Library. Come join us and learn about living with or preventing diabetes. Activities include:

guyleonard@countytimes.net

need for a larger and more appropriate facility. During September 2009, Leonardtown Library had 1,024 visitors per day, checking out 1,619 items and logging 160 public computer uses. In FY2009 the total circulation increased by 11 percent and the circulation has increased by 19 percent from July 1, 2009 to present. “A countywide facilities study recommended this project, and the county’s capital budget allocated significant funding to meet the required 50 percent match,” stated Alan Dillingham, President of the Board of Library Trustees. “We look forward to working with the Board of County Commissioners and county staff to create a new library facility for our growing population.”

guyleonard@countytimes.net

Saturday, November 7, 2009 Noon - 4 p.m. Lexington Park Library

Grant Awarded for Design of New Library The Maryland Capital Grant program has awarded St. Mary’s County $765,000 to support the design costs for the new Leonardtown Library. The funding was awarded by the Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Library Development and Services, under the County Library Capital Grants program for FY 2011. Eleven other projects totaling $8 million applied for the available $5 million in grant funds. The Board of County Commissioners for St. Mary’s County has included $13,270,000 in its FY 2010 to FY 2013 Capital Budget for this project. The circulation statistics of the Leonardtown Library continue to demonstrate the

“They’re describing the state budget differently, that’s all,” Bohanan said, adding that Maryland continues to have a triple-A bond rating form Wall Street and was one of only seven states to hold that status. He also said that the ability of the county to borrow the $25 million it needs for capital projects is critical for projects such as the already overcrowded jail. “I don’t know how the county cannot move ahead with the capital projects planned,” Bohanan said. “We’re still going to need to authorize the county to go to the bond market the next two to three years.” Commissioner Thomas A. Mattingly (DLeonardtown) said that the county may not need the full $25 million but it needed to make sure it had the ability to finish capital projects once they were started. “We think we have a plan that’s affordable,” Mattingly said. “It’s not a guarantee that we’ll require that much money.” Bohanan also said the O’Malley administration would continue to make cuts to meet the obligation and not raise taxes. Del. John Wood (D-Dist. 29A) said that while O’Donnell’s budget estimate was the ceiling, Bohanan’s was the floor. “They both are right,” said Wood. “To me, I’d rather tell [constituents] it’s $3 billion rather than $1.5 billion. “I think it’s going to be between $2.5 billion to $3 billion,” Wood said.

w w w w w

Free health screenings, including vision, blood pressure, glucose, HgbA1C and more! Lectures by local physicians Diabetes educators available to answer your questions Vendors of diabetes products Valuable free samples, including diabetes recipe magazines Chance to win fantastic door prizes

Educational Speakers Include: w w w

Kiran D. Mehta, M.D. — Sleep Apnea Luke Morgan, D.D.S., — Dental Health and Diabetes Jennifer Schmidt, D.O. — Celiac Disease and Diabetes

For more information, contact Health Connections at 301-475-6019. 25500 Point Lookout Road ♦ Leonardtown, Maryland 20650 ♦ SMHWeCare.com

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

ewsToday’s Newsmaker In Brief On the county’s desire to borrow money from the bond market for construction projects

On the lack of surety of the number of homeless in the county “Whether it’s 1,000 or 500 there’s a need.” Commissioner President Francis Jack Russell (D-St. George’s Island)

“Now is not the time to be borrowing more money” Del. Anthony O’Donnell (R-Dist.29 C)

Engineering Program Offers Free Tuition Reeves To Leave Planning By Virginia Terhune Staff Writer

The promise of free tuition worth more than $20,000 and the guarantee of a good defense job after graduation no doubt played a role in enticing four students to sign up this fall for the new University of Maryland mechanical engineering program now offered through the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center in California. The program is one of more than 90 degree programs offered at the center, which is hosting an open house on Thursday, Nov. 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. The new co-op program is a joint effort between the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division at Pax River Naval Air Station and the University of Maryland in College Park to increase the pool of engineers for defense work. Right now there is a shortage nationally and also locally, with some students going out of state to earn their degrees. “The goal is to keep our own talent,” said Dr. Paul Hoffman, a structural engineer who lives in Lusby, works on base and coordinates the new program. For at least 10 years, Hoffman has been part of the NAWCAD partnership with faculty and grad-student researchers at the University of Maryland, who work together in fields such as power and propulson. As that agreement was set to expire, Hoffman approached Ed Greer, the civilian executive director of NAWCAD, about renewing it. Greer, a St. Mary’s County native, gave him more support than bargained for. Hoffman said he boosted the University of Maryland research budget from about $150,000 to $1 million to include more projects, and he also set in motion the new undergrad program at the Higher Education center. “He saw it as an opportunity,” Hoffman said. “It was to be our seed community for our experts in the future.” Greer said part of his idea for the program came out of his own experience. He went to the College of Southern Maryland (then called Charles County Community College) for his first two years and then transferred to Maryland to complete is electronics engineering degree. “I would have really liked to stay in the Southern Maryland area for the four year engineering program, but it did not exist in the 1970’s,” he said. Another impetus was the fact that attrition at the base decreases significantly when it hires local people, saving NAWCAD training dollars, he said. As part of the program, NAWCAD also funded the set up of a new engineering teaching lab at the Higher Education center with new equipment worth $700,000, plus a rotary wing simulator that gives students an idea of what it’s like to fly a Navy helicopter. The new co-op program works by accepting students who earn 60 credits from CSM

and then are accepted by the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland. The College of Southern Maryland publicized the new program last year, and interest in engineering has suddenly soared. Last year 12 students signed up for Introduction to Engineering and this year, the number is 58. “There’s no question in my mind that they’re definitely linked,” said CSM President Bradley Gottfried about the incentives offered by the program. The Navy pays up to $4,500 per semester directly to the University of Maryland, which means students and parents do not need to provide money up front for reimbursement later, Hoffman said. The program also covers book costs up to $400 per semester. In return, graduates agree to work three months for the Department of Defense in return for one month of time in school. In the m e a nt i m e , they can also work at N AW C A D during the summer and Ed Greer between semesters, getting hands-on engineering experience while also earning money and accruing benefits and seniority, Hoffman said. Hoffman said the program wouldn’t be possible without the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center in California, which provides the space for classes, conveniently located near the base and Southern Maryland communities. The program benefits the center because it adds to its growing list of university degree programs sought by local defense contractors and other employers, said Dr. Mel Powell, executive director of the center. Greer and Hoffman envision the program expanding to include degrees in aerospace engineering, and also master’s and doctorate degrees. “I think this is unique, I think we’re creating a new paradigm,” Hoffman said about the relationship between the Navy, the university, the college and the center. “I’d love to leave this as my legacy.” For more information about the mechanical engineering program, go to www.smhec. org. For more information about teaching opportunities, call Hoffman at 301-342-9361 or e-mail Paul.Hoffman@navy.mil. virginiaterhune@countytimes.net

Commission By End Of Year By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Chaptico resident Steve Reeves, who chairs the St. Mary’s County Planning Commission, has asked the county commissioners to replace him by the end of December, as he has decided to leave the group altogether. Reeves has already served seven years and still has three years left on his current term. He told The County Times that being on the commission, while rewarding, had impeded his ability to earn a reasonable income. He now says he will turn his attention to his accounting business as well as his farming endeavors. “I’ve been looking to get off for a long time,” said Reeves of his decision to not fill out the last years of his term. “I don’t feel like I’m doing as good a job as I’ve done in the past.” Reeves said that he would often be consumed by his work on the commission and serving as its chairman. He would often spend weekends studying paperwork related to county land use and development plans, he said. Reeves said that his accounting skills required him to delve deeply into legal studies that in turn helped him in his service on the planning commission. “I’m hoping they get another accountant on there,” Reeves said. Reeves said that the current board is filled with intelligent members who are dedicated to ensuring that land is used efficiently and responsibly. “You’ve got strong opinions on that board,” Reeves said, adding that they balance each other and ensure that issues are thoroughly debated. Shelby Guazzo, a colleague of Reeves’ on the commission, said that he was always fair about the desire of parties to have their voices heard on projects that affected them. “I think he did a fine job,” Guazzo said. “He was good about letting them have their say.” Guazzo said that even if a project or proposal was not up for public comment at a meeting, Reeves would make concessions for the public to speak anyway. She also said Reeves would not vote for a project unless he believed it would be good for St. Mary’s County. “I liked his conservative voting record,” Guazzo said. “He held out for well designed projects.” Commissioner Thomas A. Mattingly (D-Leonardtown) said that Reeves personified the drive to research and study landuse issues in rising to leadership of the commission. Reeves started out as representative of the agricultural community, Mattingly said,

and was well versed in preservation issues. “He certainly is willing to express his opinions … he’s done a great job,” Mattingly said. Reeves said that one of the toughest issues the planning commission ever had to tackle was the setting up of the Lexington Park Development District, particularly the demands by some to be included to suit their interests. “It was something like gerrymandering … and I think we prevented that,” Reeves said. Reeves said one of his main goals has been to ensure that local roads, like Route 235, are not so festooned with traffic from developments as to make them impassable. He said that there have been some successes along the way but that some roads still remain heavily laden with cars despite his efforts. He said Indian Bridge Road, which has land fronting it both in and out of the development district, has been one of those successes for now. He laments, however, the fact that some developments, which have changed hands among different buyers, have taken on something of a life of their own. He mentioned the Woods at Myrtle Point and Wildewood as some examples. Of Wildewood he said that the pace of development has left roads and streets congested with traffic, but its status as a planned unit development gave it the legal right to expand as such. “There’s nothing we can do about that,” Reeves said. Reeves said he also feared that county leadership might always err on the side of using zoning restrictions and impact fees rather than easing up and letting certain developments flourish where needed for economic growth. “Once you have power … you have a tendency to not give it up,” Reeves said. “It’s just as important to relieve the pressure as it is to allow restrictions.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

Steve Reeves

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Remember Those Who Served Why do we commemorate living veterans on the 11th of November? Already in May we have Memorial Day, commemorating the dead who gave their last full measure of devotion to “The War to End All Wars,” which ended with an armistice at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. Balloons and trenches were things from previous wars. Machine guns, pursuit airplanes, dirigibles (zeppelins), Big Bertha (an artillery piece which fired a shell over 50 miles), field hospitals, poison gas, moving pictures and tanks were new to warfare then. When at the end of hostilities, the armistice was declared, it ended a war that changed the world, ending certain types of governance and beginning new ones. It was a precursor to the next world conflict, and between them, they killed well over 100,00,000 people. Their effects killed maybe another 100,000,000. First officially commemorated by the Federal government in 1938 by Act of Congress, Armistice Day was a remembrance of the carnage in Europe and the hope that peace would be facilitated by the remembrance. Many states had celebrated the day in earlier years. Throughout the ’30s, ’40s, ’50s and ’60s we celebrated Armistice Day with memories and parades. World War II interrupted the peace and swelled the ranks of veterans, as did the Korean police action and the Cold War. Memories began

to fade of why we called the day Armistice Day. The veterans of that first World War began to depart this earth in greater numbers. The business community wanted all federal holidays to be celebrated on Mondays so they could reap the benefits of many long weekend vacations and sales events. “See the USA in your Chevrolet” became the bywords. For all of these reasons, Congress in 1968 designated our Federal holidays much as they are now, with many being on a Monday closest to the original celebration date as possible. But due to the concerns of many, some adjustment has been made in the Monday celebration schedule. Veterans Day has returned to Nov. 11 instead of the closest Monday to that date. Of course Christmas Day, New Years Day and Independence Day have remained on their respective historical or calendar dates because of religious and historical precedence. Remember that Veterans Day is a day to commemorate all living veterans. Those who have served in the Armed Forces for however short or long – their service should be acknowledged for their sacrifice. Some was voluntary, some was coerced by the draft – it makes no matter. They served and that is important. James M. Blass Mechanicsville, Md.

NARFE Thanks Merchants, Community

The St. Mary’s County Chapter 969 of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) would like to take this opportunity to thank the following businesses that permitted our volunteers to collect for the benefit of Hospice and Alzheimer’s: Food Lion in Callaway, Charlotte Hall, Laurel Glen and Leonardtown; Giant Food in California; McKay’s in Charlotte Hall, Great Mills, Hollywood, Leonardtown and Wildewood; Monterey’s in California; Raley’s in Ridge; and Wal-Mart in California. Without their support, our fundraiser would not have been a success. We also wish to thank the people of St.

Mary’s County for their compassion and generosity. With all that is going on in our country, the citizens of our county dug even deeper and supported our fundraiser for Alzheimer’s and Hospice by donating $8,569.20. Thank you! Our thanks and appreciation go out to all who donated and also to all our volunteers who assisted by collecting for these very worthwhile causes. Carol White and Estella Thomas Alzheimer’s Co-chairs for NARFE, Chapter 969

Bluegrass for Hospice Thanks You I’d like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you that attended the Bluegrass for Hospice event on Oct. 24. It was a success, and we raised just under $8,000, which was $2,000 shy of my goal. All of the money raised goes to the new Hospice House of St. Mary’s located in Callaway. I’d like to thank the many generous businesses in St. Mary’s County and thanks to the Amish/ Mennonite community for their door-prize donations and silent auction items. There were many of you, and thanks to my dad, Johnny Armsworthy, and Tina Williams for getting many of those door prizes and silent auction items. You did a fabulous job. Thanks so much to the sponsors of the event: Community Bank of Tri County, St. Mary’s County Arts Council and Winter’s Heating & Cooling, PNC Bank, W.M. Davis Inc., Executive Inn and Suites, Phillip Riehl-State Farm Insurance Agent, Southern Maryland Woman magazine for the great ad, Dot Bell and the Bell Boy’s Bus Service, Blue Heron Services and the Printing Press for all of my printing needs. There were great to work with and did a fantastic job. To each and everyone reading this, support the businesses that were involved when you can. They’re part of our great county and very generous. The Hospice of St. Mary’s volunteers, board members and staff, thank you for your participation at Saturday’s event; Bubby Knott of the Flat Iron Farm for providing a place to have it; Herbie Smith for getting the barn ready for us; and my

wife, Michelle, for all the hard work she did on Saturday. I don’t know how I could have done it without her. Thanks to all of the other volunteers – Lorraine (my mom), Debbie Johnson, Pat Barber and Marie Windsor, Andrea Deaderick, Dan and Priscilla Abbotson for printing and donating the T-shirts, and all of the vendors who participated and donated to the cause. Thanks also to Andrea Shiell of The County Times for the great article/ interview and to the Baynet for their coverage. All of the bands were great and donated their talents – thanks to all. We had seven local bluegrass bands – my band and me, Eastern Tradition; Bubby Abell, Joey Tippett, Charlie Thompson, Recent Addition, Jack Tippett and David Norris. We also had a band that traveled a long distance, Foggy Mountain Hilton from Rockville, who replaced a band at the last minute, plus our headline act, Danny Paisley and the Southern Grass. I’d also like to send a special thank you to Troy Jones, who kept everything on cue with the sound. He’s fantastic and a great friend. It was a lot of work putting this together, but a lot of fun too. If there’s someone who I missed that me helped me on Saturday, please forgive me. It was a very busy day, but you’re very much appreciated. Once again I’d like to say, it takes a community to make an event like this happen and St. Mary’s County, you did it! Jay Armsworthy California, Md.

To The Editor:

What Are You Prepared To Do?

Over the last several months, a battle of mega proportions has been waged, one that affects all of us and is so deep in its effect that it touches all aspects of life. This battle is being waged over a proposed government-controlled health care plan, but this is only the poster child of this action. What truly is the issue at hand is the systematic takeover by our government of our social and economic fabric. Although only 35 percent of the population agrees with this health-care takeover, it still goes forward! Sen. Harry Reid (D) stated recently that the public has demanded a “public option”, and our esteemed House leader (sarcasm), Nancy Pelosi (D), whom we all respect for her honesty and leadership (more sarcasm), has coined a new phrase for this “public option”, now referred to as the “consumer option”, which she states is more in line with its purpose and one the does not give the “illusion” of public tax funding. I simply would ask her if this is not to be funded by public funds, then where is the funding coming from if not from the public? These so called representatives, who I refer to as the self-proclaimed “American aristocracy”, are moving forward with this, based on bully politics and allegiances to organizations whose mission statement is simply the systematic takeover of America through the creation of a social state, and alignment with a global federation. So I ask you, what are you prepared to do? Our government representatives spoonfeed us information. They obfuscate their true actions with lies and closed-door sessions, and then state that it is for the good of the country. They create legislation that is so hard to read that legal scholars cannot decipher its true meaning. They spend our money with no regard for consequence. They stifle and bully any organization that stands in the way of their agenda, and they dismiss others as ineffectual, such as our Tea Party Movement. So I ask you, what are you prepared to do? Our Congressional representatives exude such great integrity through tax evasion and real estate scandals, which at the very least have a flavor of criminal impropriety, if not truly criminally indictable in any court of law. The true fact here is that there will be no indictments, no trials and no punishments, for these very same people believe that they are above the law, the very laws which they help create. They surround themselves with people and organizations that at the very least raise eyebrows because of their questionable behavior. I have often told my son, and I believe this to be

true, you are judged by the company you keep. Organizations such as ACORN and its parent companies obfuscate their true nature through nonprofit status, enabled by public funds, and promote criminal activity in order to complete their agenda. We as Americans, taxpayers, the true owners of this great nation, are expected to stand idly by and watch without so much as a “by your leave” as they tear away at every fabric of this nation. They will continue to tear away until there is nothing left, and we the people are so dependent upon the government for every aspect of our daily lives. So I ask you, what are you prepared to do? Some of you reading this are asking yourself, “What can I do?” Others are saying, “It doesn’t matter what we do, we can’t make a change, it is what it is.” I say to you all we can make a change, we can make a difference. First you start by writing your congressional representatives in the House and Senate, tell them what you want them to do, make them understand where you stand on the issues, make them work for you! Do not just stop at doing this once, continue to e-mail the same thing to them over and over, demand that they answer the tough questions, be accountable. They all have staffers manning their phone banks – call them two or three times a day, and make them hear you! Attend the town hall meetings, ask the hard questions and make them answer. If you are told that you are not welcome because you are not a party member, tell them that Congressional representation comes with being party agnostic, and they represent you too! Sign all the petitions dealing with the issues, they are out there. The most notable thing that you can do is vote. In 2010 we can change the face of the political landscape in Washington. They know this, and they will lie to you to make it seem like they hear you and feed you information that they think you wish to hear. We know the truth and we will take action in 2010. A wake-up call is coming in November of this year with the gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey. The current administration will use this as a test, they have already stated as much with regards to our heroes serving overseas and the troop increase request from the field commanders. I know what I am prepared to do – I ask you, what are you prepared to do? John Richardson California, Md.

Do you have something to say? Would like your voice to be heard? Send us a letter telling us what’s on your mind! E-mail letters to: opinion@countytimes.net

Send to:

The County Times

P.O. Box 250 • Hollywood, MD 20636 Make sure you include your name, phone # and the city you live in. We will not publish your phone #, only your name and city

for the love of

Money Company

Symbol

Wal-Mart Harley Davidson Best Buy Lockheed Martin BAE Systems Computer Science Corp. Dyncorp International Inc. General Dynamics Corp. Mantech International Corp. Northrop Grunman Corp.

WMT HOG BBY LMT BAESF CSC DCP GD MANT NOC

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009 While digging, an Armadillo can hold its breath for up to six minutes.

Close 11/4/2009

Close 12/31/2008

$50.38 $25.24 $38.97 $70.96 $5.10 $51.71 $17.12 $64.61 $44.24 $50.72

$56.06 $16.97 $28.11 $84.08 $5.41 $35.14 $15.17 $57.59 $54.19 $45.04

Change

un Fact

Nuclear Merger OK’d – With Concessions By Sean Rice Staff Writer

-10.13% 48.73% 38.63% -15.60% -5.73% 47.15% 12.85% 12.19% -18.36% 12.61%

A $4.5 billion joint venture between Constellation Energy Group, owner of Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant, and France’s EDF received approval from the Maryland Public Service Commission on Oct. 30. The approval marks one of the last regulatory hurdles in a deal to sell nearly half of Constellation’s nuclear assets to EDF, but the approval comes with $360 million in add-on concessions demanded by Gov. Martin O’Malley that must be paid. On Monday, Nov. 2, Constellation Energy

sidiary of Baltimore-based Constellation. The credit would give each BGE customer $100. The PSC said the company should implement the credit before the end of March 2010 to help offset winter heating bills. The PSC said in its order that it’s not enough for the companies to prove the transaction is consistent with the public interest. The PSC said Baltimore Gas & Electric Customers “must receive benefits directly ... not just their share of the transactions’ impact on the public at large.” The PSC’s order also noted concerns about the availability of capital to support BGE after Constellation nearly went bankrupt

More Than $6 Million In Bonds For Developers A $6.1 million allocation from the federal government will enable St. Mary’s County to issue Recovery Zone Facility Bonds, a new financing vehicle that is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Stimulus Act). Proceeds of Recovery Zone Facility Bonds can be used for the purchase and renovation of real estate and the purchase of new equipment. The bonds can be used by most commercial businesses and development projects, with certain exceptions such as rental housing, golf courses, country clubs, massage parlors, hot tub facilities, suntan facilities, racetracks or liquor stores which are excluded by federal law.

All projects must be valued at a minimum of $3 million and complete a pre-concept plan review by county agencies. In order to allow adequate time for the bond process, plan approval suitable for financing must be completed by July 2010. Interested parties must file a project summary with the St. Mary’s County Department of Economic and Community Development between Oct. 31, 2009, and Nov. 16, 2009. For more information, call Hans Welch, Manager of Business Development for St. Mary’s County, at 301-475-4200 x1407, or e-mail hans. welch@stmarysmd.com.

rs sonal Touch! u o t &B el with a Per

Tr a v

Christmas at Virginia Beach December 11th 13th, 2009

k & B tours Presents

$360p/p

cupanc Double Oc

New York CitY Rockettes Christmas Show December 13th & 14th 2009

PRICE: $310. p/p Triple Occupancy, $340. p/p Double Occupancy, $429. Single $170 Deposit By November 13th – LIMITED SEATING - First Come - First Served Rockettes Christmas Show, Radio City Tour, See Ground Zero Hotel accommodations Best Western President in NY (1/2 block from Times Square)

DEPART Sunday Dec. 13th at 6:00am Hollywood Fire House

Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant

released a statement saying the merging companies have agreed with the conditions set by Maryland regulators to move forward with the $4.5 billion joint nuclear venture. “We are pleased that the Maryland Public Service Commission concluded the Constellation Energy-EDF nuclear joint venture is in the public interest and represents an important element in Maryland’s energy future,” Constellation Energy said in the statement. “We have consulted with our Board and received its approval. We are now moving to close the transaction as quickly as possible so that we can begin to deliver the many benefits of this investment to all stakeholders across the state.” The conditions mandated by the PSC include a one-time, $110.5 million credit for customers of Baltimore Gas & Electric, a sub-

Other attractions to see: Christmas Tree & Lights at Rockefeller Center, Times Square, Empire State Building, etc.

RETURN Monday Dec. 14th, approximately 10:00pm FOR MORE INFORMATION:

CALL BILL or KATHY (H) 301-884-8728, (C) 240-925-0801 PLEASE LEAVE A MESSAGE, WE WILL RETURN YOUR CALL ASAP, THANKS!

Let Our Adventure Be Yours! Upcoming Tours:

NY – Broadway • Cherokee, NC • Niagra Falls • Dollywood Dover • Atl City • Myrtle Beach • VA Beach • Lancaster, PA

See Website for details on each trip • Sign up online or by phone

www.kandbtours.com

seanrice@countytimes.net

Curley Named President of Building Association

Free popcorn and drink during the show. Free Time for Sight Seeing & Shopping Deluxe Motor Coach w/Snacks, Sodas, and Videos Baggage Handling, Breakfast Monday Dinner at Mastoris in NJ on way home

last year, saying Constellation’s “near-death experience in September 2008 demonstrated all too vividly how vulnerable BGE is if, and when, things go badly for CEG.” The approval directs Constellation to infuse BGE with $250 million strengthen the company and protect consumers. O’Malley issued a statement after the announcement, stating: “Although this has been a contentious proceeding at times, the process and the law worked – and ratepayers and BGE are better off because of it. I look forward to working with Constellation and EDF … to move forward on the anticipated construction of Calvert Cliffs III.”

Edward R. Curley

The Maryland-National Capital Building Industry Association elected its 2010 Leadership Team, including Edward (Guy) R. Curley III, president of Liberty Home Builders, a residential construction and development firm in Great Mills, as its president. Curley will be installed as resident of the MNCBIA on Jan. 28, 2010, along with the other members of the executive committee and board of directors. In 2004 Curley was named to the executive

committee where he was tasked with the job of vice president of St. Mary’s County, a title he held until landing his new role as 2010 president. Curley is heavily involved with the St. Mary’s County Economic Development Commission, the Workforce Housing Task Force and the St. Mary’s County Hurricane Relief Fund. “It’s truly an honor to be chosen by a special group of my peers at this unique time in our industry and economy,” Curley said in a press release.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The County Times

New Head Of ASW Systems

NAVAIR Patuxent River – Capt. Luis M. Ramirez took the helm of the ASW, Assault and Special Mission Programs (PMA-264) following a change of command ceremony held Nov 3, according to a NAVAIR press release. Ramirez, the assistant chief of staff for material and logistics readiness for Battle Force Seventh Fleet, will succeed Capt. Larry Pugh, a 1983 graduate of Southern Methodist University. Capt. Pugh, a Naval Flight Officer, will retire from the United States Navy with 25 years of distinguished service. Pugh served as patrol plane tactical coordinator, mission commander, instructor navigator, IPT Lead and finally program manager for Air ASW Sensors. A California native and a graduate of UCLA, Ramirez received his commission through the Aviation Officers Candidate School and was designated a Naval Flight Officer. His operational tours included Patrol Squadrons VP 48 and VP 50, and culminated

with VP 31, where he served as a Replacement Air Group NFO flight instructor. Ramirez was transferred to Naval Air Systems Command in 1996 where he served as an Aerospace Engineering Duty Officer in several acquisition programs. In 2008, after a short tour as the AIR 1.0 Operations Officer, Ramirez reported to the Forward Deployed Naval Force Carrier Strike Group staff permanently embarked on the USS George Washington, home ported out of Yokosuka, Japan. He holds a bachelor of science degree in Engineering from UCLA, a master of science degree in Computer Science from the Naval Post Graduate School, and a master of arts degree in National Security Strategy from the National War College. He is a member of the Acquisition Corp with Level III certification in Program Management and Systems Planning, Research, Development & Engineering.

dtown, MD 301-997-0500 uare in Leonar n-the-Sq O , t e e r St wick 5 Fen 4165

Gretchen Richie Jazz Trio Sat. Nov. 7th • 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm Sat. Nov. 21st • 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm Sat. Dec. 19th • 9:00 pm - 11:30 pm

Pax River Prepares For Holiday Dance! Dinner Entertainment Joint Strike Fighter Three versions of the F-35 are being manufactured to support different mission needs: the F-35A, a conventional takeoff and landing variant for the U.S. Air Force; the F-35B, a short-takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) model for the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.K.; and the F-35C, carrier version that is designed to take off and land on U.S. Navy aircraft carriers. The F-35B and F-35C will be tested and developed at NAS Patuxent River, which will host a total of eight aircraft at the peak of the testing program. The Centerfield Complex will be used to test these capabilities including vertical landings on pads mimicking those found on land and on the LHD class of ships; short-distance takeoffs using the ski jump which is similar to those found on U.K. carriers; and flight performance testing on the EAF. Expeditionary Airfields are mobile systems that allow U.S. Marines to quickly build functioning airfields in mission critical areas that do not support a standard-use airfield. These areas allow the JSF to perform missions in any terrain. Additional testing activities to occur at NAS Patuxent River include carrier approach and landing flights, software and aircraft systems development, and aircraft certification testing. The JSF SDD program operations at NAS Patuxent River are expected to continue through 2013 although the F-35’s presence at the Naval Air Station will likely extend well into t h e fufu

t u r e. Airc r a f t e q u i p m e nt reand systems re continualquirements continual ly evolve, resulting in the continued need for follow-on test and evaluation. Lockheed Martin is the F-35 prime contractor, while Northrop Grumman and BAE partSystems are the principal part ners in the project.

gretchen richieJazz Cabaret

“Songs of the Holidays!” Thurs. Dec. 10th • 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Reservations Recommended

Limi te

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION – A new jet aircraft will soon be calling Naval Air Station Patuxent River home. The F-35 Lightning II, Joint Strike Fighter will arrive from Fort Worth, Texas, to continue its System Development and Demonstration testing efforts at NAS Patuxent River. Since early 2002, NAS Patuxent River has been getting ready for the arrival of the F-35 with the addition of new facilities and equipment required to support the testing of thenew aircraft, according to a press release released by the base. The F-35 will bring a new look, feel and sound to NAS Patuxent River. It is a singleseat, single-engine, stealth-capable military strike fighter that will provide aircraft weapon support to troops on the ground, the ability to precisely drop/shoot weapons, and the ability to conduct airspace patrol and defense missions. It was designed to fulfill the multiple combat mission requirements of the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, and the U.S. Marine Corps, as well as the United Kingdom Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. Additional international partners include Australia, Canada, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and Turkey. The F-35 will replace the following aging fighter aircraft, including the U.S. Air Force A-10s and F-16s, U.S. Navy F/A-18s, U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harriers and F/A-18s, and U.K. Harrier GR-7s and Sea Harriers.

ime Only!

Move

pecial S - In Discounted Cable Playground

301-862-5307

Free on Site Storage with Every Apartment Walk to Shopping/ Restaurants Amenity Package Available

Owned and Operated by

Call For More Information: Bella Bailey, Marketing & Leasing MGR.

301-737-0737

23314 Surrey Way • California, Maryland 20619 Fax: 301-737-0853 • leasing@apartmentsofwildewood.com

The County Times

Fred W. Breslin, 81 Fred W. Breslin, 81, of Leonardtown, MD and formerly of Philadelphia, PA, died November 1, 2009 at St. Mary’s Hospital. Born January 12, 1928, in Philadelphia, PA he was the son of the late William Joseph and Violet Christiana Breslin. He was the loving husband of Anne M. Breslin whom he married on October 10, 1953 in Philadelphia, PA. He is also survived by his children; Patrick Breslin of Pennington, NJ, Michael Breslin of Woodbine, MD, Tom Breslin of Leonardtown, MD, Margaret Dunn of Troy, NY, Bill Breslin of California, MD, Nancy Powdrill of Leonardtown, MD and Joanne Jones of Leonardtown, MD, 13 grandchildren as well as his sisters Eileen Babel of Ocean City, NJ and Alice McCaffery of Berlin, NJ. He was preceded in death by his daughter Kathy Easom and his sister Anna Marie “Billie” Kogut.

A graduate of North Catholic High School of Philadelphia “Class of 1945”, Fred attended Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science and graduated in May of 1952 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacology. He moved to St. Mary’s County in 1958 and was a Pharmacist for St. Mary’s Pharmacy in Leonardtown for 37 years, retiring in August of 1989. He served in the U.S. Army from January 21, 1946 to July 20, 1947. Fred belonged to the Birthright of Southern Maryland organization and the Boy Scouts of America. He enjoyed fishing, playing poker with his sons and watching football. The family received friends on Wednesday, November 4, 2009 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Chapel, Leonardtown, MD where prayers were said at 7:00 PM by Fr. John Mattingly. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, November 5, 2009 at 10:00 AM in St. Aloysius Catholic Church, Leonardtown, MD with Fr. John Barry officiating. Interment will follow in Queen of Peace Cemetery, Helen, MD. Pallbearers will be Pat Breslin, Michael Breslin, Tom Breslin, Bill Breslin, Tom Jones and Jim Easom. Contributions may be made to Birthright of Southern Maryland, Inc. P.O. Box 633, Leonardtown, MD 20650, and/ or Hospice of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Condolences to the family may be left at www.mgf h.com.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.

James Harrison “Jim” Calvert, 40 James Harrison “Jim” Calvert, 40, of Lexington Park, MD and formerly of Farifax, VA, died November 1, 2009 at his residence. Born June 8, 1969, in Fairfax, VA he was the son of Jerome R. and Virginia C. Calvert of Greenville, SC and formerly of Fairfax, VA. He is also survived by his sisters, Virginia D.C. Marchant and her husband Thomas of Greenville, SC and Katherine E. Calvert of Harrogate, England as well as his niece Carolina Davies Marchant and his nephew Thomas Spencer Marchant. Jim graduated from W. Springfield High School, Springfield, VA in 1987. He attended George Mason University where he obtained his degree in electrical engineering in 1991. He was a software engineer for the U.S. Government and was an avid walker and enjoyed reading and traveling. The family will receive friends for a visitation on Thursday, November 5, 2009 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM in the MattingleyGardiner Funeral Home Chapel, Leonardtown, MD where a memorial service will be held at 7:00 PM. Interment will be private. Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312. Condolences to the family may be left at www. mgf h.com. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.

Travis Alexander Cross “Gruntman,” 17

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

T r a vis Alexander Cross “Gruntman,” 17, of Mechanicsville, MD and formerly of Leonardtown, MD, died October 27, 2009 in Avenue, MD. Born May 28, 1992 in Washington, DC he was the son of Thomas Edwin and Victoria Cobb Cross, Jr. of Mechanicsville, MD. He was the loving grandson of Thomas E. Cross, Sr. of Lexington Park, MD, and the late Mary Hall Cross, Louise Cobb of Mechanicsville, MD and the late Kelsey Cobb. Travis is also survived by his Aunts, Carol Lynn Seegars of Sarasota, FL, and her son Paul Seegars of Springfield, VA, Kay and her husband Wayne Gillispie of Arborville, WV, Brenda and her husband Jack Varney or Rio, WV, Mary Cobb-Longo of Bradenton, FL, Sherry and her husband Vince Gazzo of Anna Marie Island, FL, Cindi Couchenour of Parhrump, NV, and Linda Wirth of Indian Head, MD, his Uncles David Cobb of Sarasota, FL, Robert B. Cross of Clements, MD and his daughter Carrie Lynn

Cross of Melbourne, FL as well as his 15 first cousins Rueben, Brady, Elliot, Sidney, Tammy, Jackie, Jill, Beverly, David, Johanna, Rachel, Alexis, Max, Katie and Robbie and 14 second cousins. He was preceded in death by his uncle John Robert Cobb. Travis was a lifelong resident of St. Mary’s County and was a senior at Chopticon High School. Travis loved his dog “ Blackie” that he had for 15 years as well as his two guinea pigs “Precious and Sweety.” He enjoyed bass fishing at Gilbert Run and four-wheeling in the woods around his home with his friend David. Travis also enjoyed his engineering class, air brush art and keeping a top notch green lawn. He was an avid woodworker and computer geek whiz. The family received friends on Thursday, October 29, 2009 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM in The Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Chapel, Leonardtown, MD, where prayers were said at 7:00 PM. Funeral services were held on Friday, October 30, 2009 in Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Chapel at 10:00 AM with Fr. William Gurnee officiating. Interment followed in Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, MD. Pallbearers were David Saavedra, Quentin Leatherman, Andrew Guy, David Quade, Joseph Rhoades and Joseph Baker. Honorary Pallbearers were Randall Powell, Gary Norris, and Robert Swann. Contributions may be made in the memory of Travis to Chopticon High school, 25390 Colton Point Road, Morganza, MD 20660. Condolences may be left to the family at www.mgf h.com. Arrangements provided by the MattingleyGardiner Funeral Home, P.A.

Olive Shadrick Ertter, 88 Olive Shadrick Ertter, 88, of California, MD died October 29, 2009 at her residence. Born January 8, 1921 in Washington, DC, she was the daughter of the late John Hebb Shadrick and Emma (Berglund) Shadrick. Olive was a devoted member of the St. George’s Episcopal Church in Valley Lee, MD, and a long time member of the National Society of Colonial Dames of America and the Daughters of the American Revolution. In her free time, Olive enjoyed geneology, travel, and spending time with her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Francis Ertter, Jr., whom she married on October 2, 1941 in Annapolis, MD. Olive is survived by her two sons, Thomas John Ertter and his wife Kaye of Beaufort, SC and Robert Shadrick Ertter of Tall Timbers, MD, four grandchildren, Marianna Holloman, John Ertter, Mathew Ertter, and Sarah Ertter, and three greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son, John Francis Ertter, III. Family received friends for Olive’s Life Celebration on Monday, November 2, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in the St. George’s Episcopal Church, 19167 Poplar Lane, Valley Lee, MD where a Funeral Service was held at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Greg Syler presiding. Interment followed in the church cemetery.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The County Times

Continued Serving as pallbearers were Robert Ertter, Thomas Ertter, Matthew Ertter, Rick Meatyard, Bruce Phinney and Bill Grant. Contributions may be made to St. George’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 30, Valley Lee, MD, or 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.

Catherine Julia Topolski, 81 Catherine Julia To p o l s k i , 81, of Lexington Park, MD died October 28, 2009 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonardtown, MD. Born December 29, 1927 in Baltimore, MD she was the daughter of the late Harry E. and Edith Bush. Mrs. Topolski was a Rural Postal Carrier in Lexington Park, MD for 30 years retiring in 1998. She was an avid bowler and enjoyed playing cards. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by one sister; Edith Peoples. She is survived by her children; Sheila Rishel of Hollywood, MD, Stephen Topolski of West Monroe, LA, Joseph Topolski of Baltimore, MD, Jeffrey Topolski of Lexington Park, MD, Michael Topolski of Hollywood, MD, Mark Topolski of Mechanicsville, MD, Kathleen Stone of Lexington Park, MD and Stephen Topolski, II of LaPlata, MD, siblings; Robert Bush of Baltimore, MD, Anna Haskin of Pittsburgh, PA, James Bush of Pulaski, TN, Harry Bush of Redline, PA and Dorothy Mitchell of York, PA, also survived by 25 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. A Funeral Service was conducted on Saturday, October 31, 2009 in the Brinsfield Funeral Home Chapel with Deacon Lou Koeniger officiating. Interment was private. Memorial contributions may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, (JDRF), Capitol Chapter, 1400 K St., N.W., Washington, DC Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfunral.com Arrangements provided by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD

Joseph “Joe” Glen Urbanek, 52 Joseph “Joe” Glen Urbanek, 52, of California, MD died October 26, 2009 at his residence. Born July 12, 1957 in Washington, DC, he was the son of the late Ferdinand and June Carter Urbanek. Joe was a self employed contractor. He is survived by his girlfriend of 21

years, Margaret Ellen Medlin of Califor n ia, MD, one sister, Teresa Pruiett of Clifton, VA and his nieces and nephew, Catherine, Kara, Cheryl and Chris. Fa m i ly received friends from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2009 in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A. Leonardtown, MD, where a Funeral Service was conducted at 7 p.m. with Reverend Meredith Wilkins-Arnold officiating. 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.

Charles Henry “Chuck” Wills, Jr. 42 Charles H e n r y “Chuck” Wills, Jr. 42, of Leonardtown, MD and formerly of E d ge me r e , MD died October 27, 2009 in Leonardtown, MD. Born May 20, 1967 in B a lt i m o r e , MD, he was the son of Alma Jean Guice and his stepfather Thomas Guice of Baltimore, MD. He is also survived by his wife Rebecca Holly Wills and his daughter Autumn Elizabeth Wills both of Leonardtown, MD, as well as his sister Leah Ratcliffe of Baltimore, MD. Chuck attended Sparrows Point High School in Baltimore County, MD. He worked as a maintenance technician for St. Mary’s County Government. Chuck loved guitars, running, collecting antiques, the friends he made in St. Mary’s county as well as spending time with his family. The family received friends on Friday, October 30, 2009 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD where prayers were said at 7:00 PM. A funeral service was held on Saturday, October 31, 2009 at 10:00 AM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Chapel, Leonardtown, MD. Interment followed in Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, MD. In Lieu of f lowers; the family requests donations be sent to a trust fund for Autumn Elizabeth Wills at 7731 North Point Creek Road, Baltimore, MD 21219.To leave a condolence for the family please visit www.mgf h.com. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.

Serving St. Mary's County Since 1978 Free eSTIMATeS / QuICk TurnArOunD • High Speed Digital Black/White & Color Copy Service Compare our Prices & Time Line to Our Competitors

• Posters • Flyers • Menus • Wedding Invitations, Programs and • Raffle & Admission Tickets Accessories • Announcements • Graphic Design • Invitations • Commercial Offset Printing • Composition & • Perfect Binding, Hard Back Layout Binding, GBC / Coil Binding, • Copy Service Saddle Stitching • Rubber Stamps • Free In-County Delivery • Letterheads 41690 Courthouse Drive Leonardtown, Maryland 20650 • Envelopes Phone: 301-475-5531 • Newsletters Fax: 301-475-9636 email: orders@printingpressinc.com • Business Cards www.printingpressinc.com • Business Forms HOurS: Mon - Thur 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. • NCR Forms Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Envelope Inserting • Certificates • Contracts • Continuous Forms • Booklets • Brochures • Funeral Programs • Bumper Stickers • Magnetic Signs • Laminating • Labels • Bindery • Specialty Work • Color Work • Briefs • Easels

The County Times

Briefs Police Arrest Man On Armed Robbery Warrant On Oct. 30, 2009, Joseph Eckloff, 26, of Lexington Park was arrested on an outstanding warrant for an alleged armed robbery. The warrant was issued in connection with an Oct. 23, 2009, armed robbery, which occurred on Fenwick Street in Leonardtown. Eckloff was developed as a suspect and an application for statement of charges was completed. An arrest warrant charging Eckloff with armed robbery, robbery, theft of less than $1,000 and having a concealed dangerous weapon was issued for Eckloff. On Oct. 30, 2009, Eckloff was located in a parking lot in the area of Liberty Street in Lexington Park and he was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where he is being held on $100,000 bond.

Two Arrested, Charged With Trespassing On Oct. 27, 2009, at approximately 4:20 p.m. deputies responded to a trespassing complaint on Maidenside Lane in Leonardtown. The investigation revealed Patrick George Lasher, 58, of no fixed address, and Elizabeth M. Bowen Droneburg, 50, of no fixed address, were at the victim’s residence after being issued notices not to trespass by Corporal Elizabeth Trossbach on Oct. 12, 2009. Deputy First Class William Watters located both suspects on the property. Lasher and Droneburg were placed under arrest, transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with trespassing on private property.

Man Charged With Escape On June 19, 2009, William Nathaniel Butler, 36, of Great Mills, was incarcerated in the St. Mary’s County Detention Center for non-payment of court-ordered child support. Butler was granted work release by the courts. On Oct. 26, 2009, Butler was released from the St. Mary’s County Detention Center, per court order, to go to work. Butler allegedly failed to return to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center after work. A retake warrant was issued for the arrest of Butler by Judge Michael J. Stamm. On Oct. 29, 2009, Butler was located at a residence on Great Mills Court in Lexington Park. utler was arrested and charged with second-degree escape.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Suspect Jailed In Butler’s Place Shooting By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Detectives say that a Great Mills man was responsible for the shooting of a Lexington Park bar patron over the summer. Investigators arrested Oliver T. Smith, 23, on Oct. 30 and charged him with attempted first-degree murder in the shooting and wounding of Jawon Nathaniel Berry in the groin in the early morning hours of June 29. During their investigation detectives were able to find out that the suspect in the shooting answered to the street name of “Webbie,” who was later identified by detectives to be Smith, according to charging documents. Charging documents state that Smith, while under interrogation at the county Sheriff’s Office in the Bureau of Criminal Investigations unit, admitted to using a handgun to shoot Berry while he and many other bar patrons were in the parking lot of the establishment. In charging documents Smith is said to have told investigators that he brought the handgun to the bar that night because of past conflicts with Berry. Smith also faces charges of first-degree assault and the use of a handgun in the commission of a felony. When patrol officers responded to the shooting about four months ago, they observed patrons on foot and in vehicles fleeing the scene immediately after the shooting took place. Several shots were fired that morning with

Oliver T. Smith

one striking Berry, who had to be evacuated to the shock trauma unit of Prince George’s Hospital Center in Cheverly, according to police reports at that time. Berry did not cooperate with the investigation, however, and did not provide any information about the shooting or a suspect, detectives stated. Smith was incarcerated in the county detention center Monday after a bail review. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Dement Arrested For Prescription Fraud

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 St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office reports that on Nov. 2, the pharmacist at the St. Johns Pharmacy in Hollywood became suspicious that Jeffrey Alan Dement may be passing fraudulent prescriptions. Dement, 44 of LaPlata, and formerly of Lexington Park, submitted a prescription which was filled at the pharmacy on Oct. 31, for Oxycontin. On Nov. 2, Dement returned to the St. John’s Pharmacy and dropped off a second prescription allegedly written by the same doctor for Percocet, police say. The pharmacist contacted the doctor listed on the prescription and discovered the doctor had not written either prescription for

Dement. Dement was a patient of the doctor and had recently been seen by the doctor but no prescription for those medications were issued, police say. On Nov. 2, when Dement returned to the pharmacy to pick up the prescription he was arrested. A police search incident to Dement arrest lead to the discovery of additional prescription medication not contained in a prescription bottle on his person, police said. Dement was charged with two counts of prescription fraud and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. Dement also was served with two outstanding arrest warrant from Charles County for theft.

Man Charged With Molesting 3-Year-Old By Guy Leonard Staff Writer A Great Mills man has been released on his own recognizance after being charged with child sexual abuse and one count of fourthdegree sex offense against a female child that was in his custody. According to charging documents filed against Jason Midkiff, 25, the mother of the victim became concerned when her daughter told her that her private area hurt; the mother examined her daughter and found the area to be irritated. The daughter told her that Midkiff had touched her there, charging documents allege, and the mother became worried because the child had been with Midkiff the previous day. A staff member from Child Protective Services interviewed the child and a detective who witnessed the interview stated that the child repeated to the interviewer what she told her mother, court papers state.

The victim told the interviewer that Midkiff would touch her inappropriatley while she had her clothes on, charging documents alleged. The investigation started Oct. 22, according to charging documents and detectives interviewed Midkiff one day later and he denied ever touching his daughter inappropriately. He stated that there was no chance that he ever came in contact with the victim’s private area even by accident. The defendant was interviewed two more times, and denied the allegations against him, court papers state. When told by investigators that Midkiff had failed a polygraph exam he had consented to, he told them that he may have touched the victim’s private area while playing, charging documents stated. Midkiff faces 25 years in jail if convicted of the child sexual abuse charge against him. guyleonard@countytimes.net

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Welcome to Wildewood.

Scrapbookers, prepare to be busy.

If you enjoy preserving family memories, you’ll have a lot to enjoy in Wildewood. Because here, there’s a new

Duet Homes-Emory Monthly payment from $1445*

memory waiting around every corner. Located in California, MD, Wildewood offers over 20 homestyles to fit every kind of family. From single family homes, to townhomes and duets, priced from the low $200’s to the upper $400’s. All built to last by Stanley Martin Homes. And all in a wooded, family-oriented atmosphere with nature trails, playgrounds, a community pool, and a clubhouse that hosts all kinds of fun events like movie nights and concerts. So if you’d like to live in a place where family always comes first, make Wildewood’s model home park your first stop.

Trails

Plantation Collection Single Family Homes from the mid $300s*

MHBR#3588

Playgrounds

Pool

Schools

Clubhouse

www.wildewoodcommunity.com | 240.895.7900

A Stanley Martin Homes Community

* Monthly payment = Principal, interest, and mortgage insurance only. Emory on homesite #5217. Brierly on homesite #2028. Assumes 7% option purchase with $20,000 discount. FHA 30 yr fixed at 5.25% with 3.5% down and zero points. 3% seller closing assistance. Your payments and rate may vary. Other rules and restrictions may apply. With use of First Heritage Mortgage. Prices, availability and features subject to change without notice. Images shown for illustrative purposes. See Sales Manager for details.

Know

In The

Education

Vietnam Veteran and Author Wayne Karlin Follows Soldier’s Path College of Southern Maryland professor and author Wayne Karlin will speak about his most recent book, “Wandering Souls: Journeys with the Dead and the Living in Viet Nam”, at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, in DaughertyPalmer Commons at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. There will be a book signing with the author following the lecture. This event is free and open to the public. Call 240-895-4215.

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009 The Australian Brown Snake's venom is so powerful that only 1/14,000th of on ounce is needed to kill a human being.

un Fact

Two Great Mills Students Awarded Letters of Commendation By Andrea Shiell Staff Writer

Wayne Karlin

Artist Exhibits Work at St. Mary’s College

information, call 240-895-4250.

Author, artist and educator Mary Stewart, whose mixed-medium pieces have been influenced by ancient Greek philosophers and current Florida landscapes, will give an overview of her art at a public lecture at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, in St. Mary’s College of Maryland’s library, room 321. On campus for two months as artist-in-residence at Artist House, Stewart also will give creativity workshops to students, and work on a three-panel eight-foot-high triptych of multiple photographic fragments of a Costa Rican cloud forest. In her talk, “Chance, Choice and Connection,” Stewart will show 30 or so older images of works influenced by the philosophies of Plato and Socrates. For more

“The SAT is kind of more important, so you tend to remember that test more,” he added. “Recognition of high-achieving students is essenGreat Mills High tial to advancing educational excellence in our nation,” School seemed quiet commented a spokesperson for National Merit Scholarenough on Tuesday ship Corp. “As demonstrated by their outstanding performorning, as did the conmance in our highly competitive program, the young men ference room where two and women named Comof the school’s star stumended Students represent dents, Robert William some of the most academi academiHolland and Eric R. Dencally talented students in nis, sat back and smiled our county. We sincerely at one another. hope this recognition will They have reason to enhance their educational smile, of course, because opportunities and encour encourprincipal Tracey Heibel age them in their pursuit of announced recently that academic success.” the two students have The National Merit been named CommendScholarship Program be beed Students in the 2010 gan in 1955 and is adminis adminisNational Merit Scholar Scholar- Robert William Holland tered by the National Merit ship Program, earning letters of commendation from the Scholarship Corp., which school and the National Merit Scholarship Corp., which conducts two annual com comconducts the program. petitions for recognition As two of about 34,000 Commended Students and scholarships. Of the throughout the nation, they said their commendation 1.5 million students who was tantamount to selection as National Merit Scholars, are entered, about 50,000 though they will not continue as semi-finalists to the 2010 Eric R. Dennis qualify for recognition, two competition for National Merit scholarships. thirds of whom receive letters of commendation. For “comStill, they have both placed among the top five percent mended recognition”, National Merit employs a calculation of more than 1.5 million students after taking the Preliminary of reading, math, writing skills and critical thinking scores to SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. yield students at about the 96th percentile nationwide. When asked what his score was on the PSATs, Robert laughed and said he couldn’t remember the exact number. andreashiell@countytimes.net “It was a while ago, probably about 2180 or so,” he said.

Two Great Mills Students Headed to National Conference Gregory Lynn and Jennifer Lyons, both STEM students at Great Mills High School, will present their project, Eyes in the Skies – The GMHS UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) as part of the Future Leaders Pavilion at the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference. The conference, which is funded by the National Training and Simulation Association and includes the U. S. Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and industry, will take place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., from Nov. 30 through Dec. 3. The conference promotes cooperation among the armed services, industry, Academia and various government agencies in pursuit of improved training and education programs, identification of common training issues, and development of multiservice programs.

Lexington Park Leaders Sprucing Up School By Andrea Shiell Staff Writer

Taylor Yellman, 15, a sophomore at Leonardtown High School who is interested in pursuing a career in the medical field, prepared an insulin intravenous bag at the pharmacy workshop led by CSM Professor Dr. Ellen Wilson at the Women + Math Conference Oct. 17. “Hands-on activities provide a good way to find out if you are interested in something,” Yellman said of the workshop activities she participated in throughout the day.

The students, along with their teacher/mentor Allen Skinner, are being sponsored to attend the conference by General Dynamics Information Technology located in California, Md. Great Mills High School is one of eight high schools in the country selected to participate. As part of the conference, two teachers – Stephanie Hampton (Great Mills High School) and Nathan Swick (Spring Ridge Middle School) – have been selected to be part of the America’s Teachers at I/ITSEC. The goal of this program is to familiarize teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with the field of modeling and simulation and support STEM education and careers. Eight teachers were selected representing Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, Arizona, and New York. The National Training and Simulation Association is providing funding for these teachers to attend.

On Dec. 6 students from the tri-county area will have a celebration to commemorate their participation in the leadership workshop at CSM’s La Plata campus.

Nearly a month ago, John Jay Bonstingl, an author and educational consultant, hosted a leadership workshop at Lexington Park Elementary School, where students participated in planning projects for school improvement. “Each group took a look at changes [they wanted to make], then there was some criteria for their projects. It needed to be no cost and something the principal would love,” said principal Susie Fowler. “They took a look at what they wanted to do and what materials they’d need, and a timeline for getting it done … so [Bonstingl] is coming back today about the implementation.” There were several interesting projects in the works by Tuesday, including a hand- washing campaign to help combat the flu season, a cleanup of one of the school’s outdoor areas, and an antibullying campaign by the school’s fifth graders. “We’re going to take a look and see what they’ve come up with in terms of their projects,” said Bonstingl, who said that he paid follow-up visits to all the schools he works with. He added that he had been at Mechanicsville Elementary earlier that day to see how they were progressing with their own John Jay Bonstingl hears a presentation by fifth graders Amanda Thompson, Nasya Jackson, Danee Biscoe, Arianna Dunning and Brittany school improvement projects. Caldwell on their plans for helping Lexington Park Elementary School.

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

This year marks the

65th

Anniversary of D-Day

Join Us in Honoring Our Veterans www.brandywineparts.com 301-863-6433

Century 21 New Millennium Margaret Taylor 301-904-1482

Country Market 301-884-8484

Bowles Farms www.towneflorist.net 301-475-2551

www.bowlesfarms.com 301-884-7232

www.abwholesaler.com 301-475-2811

www.countywidepool.com 301-884-8484 www.amishheirloom.com 240-237-8228

www.threemules.com 301-863-8803

301-475-8040 Fax: 301-475-8658

John F Wood Jr.

Maryland State Delegate, District 29A 301-884-2345

41658 Fenwick St. Leonardtown, MD 20650

http://worldgym.somd.com 301-884-8096

Heating and Air Conditioning

www.arizonapizza.com 301-997-1700

snheatingac.com 301-884-5011

www.cafedesartistes.ws 301-997-0500

www.danburris.com 301-475-3151

ardiner MATTINGLEY

FUNERAL HOME, P.A.

www.mgfh.com 301-475-8500

Charles Memorial Gardens charlesmemorialgardens.com 301-475-8060

www.lennys.net 301-737-0777

www.dbmcmillans.com 301-866-0777 Honoring The Service Of Daryl Terrell

Patricia Paige Honoring Richard Page

The County Times

Cover On The

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Lions Keep Memories Alive By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

of the research the members had done. “If somebody’s name comes up, we’ll research it.” Madel said that there is no closing date as When members of the Leonardtown Lions yet on the War on Terror portion of the memoriClub formed their own nonprofit group nearly al and that there is space for yet more names. 10 years ago to have a memorial constructed “We’ve got places to add that we hope in the town square to honor the county’s we never fill,” Madel said. fallen veterans in World War II, Korea and The memorial association members Vietnam, they had no idea that soon they also help maintain the newer monument would have to add more names of fallen as well as the World War I monument to soldiers from the global War on Terror. the county’s fallen that was dedicated “It was a total shock,” said John Nov. 11, 1921, Veterans Day. Madel, president of the St. Mary’s CounWhen the group formulated the idea ty Memorials Association. of putting in the new monument, they had After formulating their idea, establess than a year to raise the money to buy lishing their nonprofit status and extenthe stone and plaques to have it dedicated sively researching all of the county’s war on Veterans Day exactly 80 years after the dead in three separate wars, they have had to first memorial, Madel said. add the names of three more servicemen who The World War I memorial in town not died fighting in their country’s latest conflict. only commemorates the fallen but also shows But, they say, that is what they stand ready that segregation between white and African to do even today. American solders – listed on the monument as “When we hear of someone dying from St. colored — was in effect. Mary’s County, we immediately start the paper- Kirk Sterling And although they look after the older mePhoto by Frank Marquart work to get them a plaque,” said Kirk Sterling, morial, they cannot change it, nor should they, secretary and treasurer for the group, which is Stirling said. ten the only way the group could find out was staffed with local Lions Club members. “We had no authority to change it,” he said. Stirling was one among other members of if the family of the fallen veteran came forward “You can’t change history; that’s the way it was the Lion’s Club and the nonprofit group who and told the group they were missing someone in those days.” studied records from the state, county and feder- on their list of the dead. The association members say they have a The members say they aren’t currently re- personal connection to the new monument, and al government to see just how many servicemen searching for names of county citizens lost in not just because of what they did to make it a died for their country in World War II. Records were incomplete, he said, and of- war, but things could change. reality. “I was one and some others,” Sterling said Many of them are veterans themselves, and one of the members lost a son in the Vietnam War, while Madel’s uncle’s name is also on the memorial. Stirling said that the work he has done for the memorial has been a privilege. “I really thank the people for letting me do this,” Sterling said. “I’m really honored by it.” Madel said that when he sees someone look at a name on the memorial and drops a rose there as a token of remembrance, it’s a special moment. “That means what we did was worth1 Month Free if Move in By 11/15/09 while,” Madel said. “It’ll be remembered by the families.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

l l a F

Into Savings

$790

Leonardtown’s Veterans Day Parade Next Week By Guy Leonard Staff Writer The Veterans Day Parade in Leonardtown will take place on Wednesday Nov. 11 but the chairman of the parade, Tom Warren, told The County Times that it would be smaller in scope than in years past. The reason, he said, is that the streetscape project has reduced the number of usable lanes on Washington Street from four to three and that the town has had to invite fewer participants this year. Usually the town gets about 4,500 to 6,000 actual participants to march in the parade, Warren said, but this year will be much less. “We’re going to keep it down to about 3,000 this year,” he said. “It’s a logistical mess, just this year, because of space requirements.” Participating will be veterans, elected officials, marching bands, military units, color guards, bagpipers, classic and antique cars, Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, cheerleaders, horses, motorcycles, fire, police, emergency equipment and more. The parade will start on Shadrick Street and then move onto Washington Street. From there it will make a left turn onto Court House Drive. The staging for the event will begin at between 8:30 and 9 a.m., and the march will begin promptly at 10 a.m., Warren said. Following the parade will be a Veterans Memorial Ceremony on the Town Square with guest speakers (including Sen. Benjamin Cardin and Congressman Steny Hoyer), patriotic music and laying of wreaths. Warren advised anyone attending the parade to obey all traffic signs posted for the event. “That’s our biggest problem right now, people coming in any way they want,” he said. The parade is sponsored by the Commissioners of Leonardtown and the St. Mary’s County Commissioners. For more information, call 301-475-9791. guyleonard@countytimes.net

2 bedroom 1 bath Fireplace, washer, dryer, dishwasher, Convenient to Income garbage disposal Restrictions Apply Shopping and Schools. Clubhouse • Playground • Pool • Handicap Access

Spring Valley Apartments springleasing@hrehllc.com 46533 Valley Court • Lexington Park, MD 20653

301-863-2239

Photo by Frank Marquart Leonardtown Lions Mac McGuyre & John Madel talk about the efforts to secure the war memorial in the town square.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Question Interview

Interviewing: Veronica Vallandingham

Veronica Vallandingham owns Ronnie’s Shear Designs hair salon in Great Mills, and has been styling hair since 1974. She took a few minutes from her lunch break to talk with The County Times.

The County Times

ewsmakers College Recognizes Staff, Faculty for Service, Innovation

The College of Southern Maryland recognized 17 employees who have made significant contributions to the college’s success

CT: What has been the biggest change in styles since you first began? VV: Everything has changed! Everything is much more advanced. We don’t do roller sets or finger waves anymore. We do blowdrying and the colors are all anything goes. CT: Style seems cyclical. There was a time when the’60s were coming back, so would you say the’70s are coming back now? VV: The styles always come back, they never go away. Actually I had a lady in here yesterday asking for finger waves, that’s how bad it is! … Somehow or other that

always comes back and haunts us. CT: If you could only give one piece of advice for hair care, what would it be? VV: If you are constantly doing your hair – with blow-drying or curling irons – you need to use a product that protects it. Otherwise you’ll do some serious damage. The newest trend is flat ironing, and that destroys the hair, and unless you have a product on there that buffers the heat, that will destroy it.

Innovative Teaching, President’s and Professional Goal Attainment. The awards are open to individuals, groups and teams. CSM’s Customer Service Award was presented to Mail and Distribution Services employees Melba Fetty, Gilbert Farrall and Richard Taylor and Marian Wills; Diane Payne and Lynna Ketchens. The Extra Mile Award was given to Theresa Beckett, who volunteered to work long hours during the duration of the Kids’ and ‘Teen College sumJody Simpson and Irvin Clark won CSM’s President’s Award. mer classes. CSM’s Innovator during the past six months at a reception Oct. Award was given to Kenneth Bays, Don 15 at the La Plata Campus. Posey, Buddy Brown, and Stephen StansEmployees were recognized for their ac- field for their collaboration to construct a tions and accomplishments in response to the gravel parking lot suitable for 80 parking Chretien Guidry won this year’s Innovative Teacher award from the College of Southern Maryland. college’s seven principles of respect, excel- spaces on the Prince Frederick Campus. lence, diversity, teamwork, integrity, knowlThe Leadership Award was given CSM’s President’s Award is given to edge and innovation. to Laura Tolarski for her accomplishments Irvin Clark and Jody Simpson for their sucPart of the college’s Employee Recogni- during her interim role as Director of Public cessful implementation of a pilot community tion and Awards Program, the reception gives Safety and Preparedness. learning program for at-risk students at the staff and faculty the opportunity to recognize The Innovative Teaching Award was Prince Frederick Campus. their co-workers’ excellence in the follow- given to Chretien Guidry for his abilThe college’s Professional Goal Attaining seven categories: including Customer ity to provide a creative classroom learning ment Awards were given to Velvet Johnson, Service, Extra Mile, Innovator, Leadership, environment. Jennifer Everhart and Vickie Grow.

THANKSGIVING BUFFET

Located on the Square in Leonardtown

301-475-5151

Make your reservation today!!!! • Christmas Parties • Retirement Parties • Anniversaries • Rehearsal Dinners • Wedding Receptions • Bridal/Baby Showers • Graduations • Bar Mitzvahs • Birthdays • Family Reunions • Corporate Groups • Awards Banquets • And More… ---Private room or Entire Café Available Monday through Friday Nights. Buffets or Selected Menu Items Available.

Join Us For a Delicious Southern Maryland Home Style Meal

Make your Thanksgiving Day One to Remember. Join us for a Delicious Southern Maryland Home Style Dinner • Oyster Stew • Garden Salad • Delicious Sliced Turkey and cranberry Sauce • Homemade Mashed Potatoes and Gravy • Scrumptious Baked Ham • Sweet Potatoes with Apples • Bread Pudding • Green Bean Casserole • Homemade Pumpkin, Pecan or Caramel Apple Pie • Sweet tea, apple cider, coffee or soda • Fresh dinner rolls Adults: $17.95 12 & Under: $8.95 3 & Under: FREE (Food, drinks and dessert included)

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The Merchants of Lexington Park Wish to Thank Our Veterans for Their Service. A Military Discount

(301) 862-4722 Fax: (301) 862-2184

Guaranteed Low Prices

Joannie Joyner • Manager

s t u c s u r l i p a h 10% 00 3 3 3 6 8 301Family Hair Care

OFF SERVICES With This Coupon

Friendly Atmosphere

Expires 11/9/09

21525 Great Mills Rd • Lexington Park, MD 20653

21323 Great Mills Rd. • Lexington Park, MD 20653

Rent-A-Center

21600 Great Mills Rd. • Ste. 30 • Lexington Park, MD 20653

Mon – Fri: 9 am – 6 pm • Sat & Sun: 9 am – 4 pm

Buy what you want. Rent what you need.®

We Support Our Veterans! Phone: (301) 737-0015 Fax: (301) 737-0018

www.rentacenter.com

NASDAQ: RCII

Cecil ’s Country Store

301-862-7702

www.cecilscountrystore.com

For All Your Real Estate Needs.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Store Specials Door Prizes Refreshments

“Veterans Will Receive 10% of My Commission Back in a Gas Card”

Dec. 5th & 6th, 2009 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Good People Find Good Homes

FD R Bl v

d r

Tulagi Place

St. Mary’s Square

SE ss ex Dr

Great Mills Rd

ot N

aD ali

Millison Plaza

Es sex Dr

e re

B A us

Patuxent River NAS

Chan cell o

Franzen Realtors, Inc.

Ru n

M at

ou t

ill

Cell: 301-4 Home: 30 81-6767 www.add 1-737-1669 ie addiemcb mcbride.com ride@verizo n.net

22316 Three Notch Rd. • Lexington Park, MD 20653 Office: 1-800-848-6092 • Office: 301-862-2222 • Fax Office: 301-862-1060

Fores t

Point Lookout Rd

McKay’s

Addie McBride

F tbury Blvd Wes

Indian Bridge

rs Ru R n d

We Salute Our Veterans for Their Service!

20853 Indian Bridge Rd California, MD (301) 994-9622

www.franzenrealtors.com

Pacific

Po in tL oo k

Route 246 & Great Mills Rd. Lexington Park, MD 20653

R d

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Civil War Subject of Free Talk at Sotterley Bradley Gottfried, president of the College of Southern Maryland, will talk about

Shangri Ln

R d Great Mills Rd

Monday: Closed Tues – Thurs: 10am – 4pm Fri – Sat: 10am – 8pm Sunday: 11 am – 6pm

Millison Plaza

The Merchants of Lexington Park Wish to Thank Our Veterans for Their Service. New Hours!

ree Th

F D R Bl v

Pax River NAS

Tulagi Place Bradley Gottfried

Special Bouncing Day! Wednesday, November 11 School’s out and the JumpYard is OPEN!

Community the Civil War in St. Mary’s County on Friday, Nov. 6, at 7 p.m. in the Barn at Sotterley Plantation in Hollywood. Sponsored by the Boeing Co., the talk is free to the public. From the landing of Federal troops at Leonardtown in 1861 through the release of the Confederate prisoners at Point Lookout Prisoner of War Camp in 1865, St. Mary’s County played an important role in the Civil War. Using illustrations and maps, Gottfried will describe the events that occurred in St.

Evergreen Science Fair

Come Anytime: 10 – 4 Bounce ALL DAY for $4.50!

Millison Plaza

21703-C Great Mills Rd. Lexington Park, MD 20653 (Just outside of NAS Patuxent River, Gate 2)

301-863-3388

That’s a SAVINGS of $2.00!

This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or coupon.

www.thejumpyard.com

Located next e to Linda’s Caf

10%

Laura Llano, 10, a 5th grader at Evergreen Elementary School in Wildewood talks with Robert Elwood, a local environmental activist as he looks at a science display at the newly dedicated school.

OFF Exp: 11/19/09

21779C Tulagi Place • Lexington Park, MD 20653

Cannot be combined w. any other offer!

Lindaʼs Cafe Thanks Our Veterans for Their Service & Sacrifice to Our Country

*'($/-)$*,++

Mon - Fri: 6am - 8pm Sat: 7am - 2pm • Sun: 8am - 2pm

Bring this coupon for

Ages 60 & above

$ 99

Mon - Fri 3 - 5 pm Cup of Soup 1/2 Sandwich Includes beverage

off

any reg price dinner entree off the dinner menu 4pm - close One coupon per customer. Expires 11/30/09.

Located in Old Downtown Lexington Park, Outside Gate 2 PAX NAS

CLEO “Hi, my name is Cleo and I’m a wonderful five year old pure bred female Rottweiler. I’m a sweetheart and I have lived around children but because of my size, I’d be happier in a household with children over 12 years. Now, I’m looking for that special someone just like YOU that can give me the loving home I deserve. I am up to date on vaccinations, spayed, house trained and identification micro chipped. For more information, please call SECOND HOPE RESCUE at 240-925-0628 or email Kathy at katmc@secondhoperescue.org. Please Adopt, Don’t Shop!”

Mary’s County during this turbulent period. Sharing his strong interest in the Civil War with others, he has written seven books including five on Gettysburg. The 2009 Speaker Series at Sotterley Plantation is sponsored by a grant from The Boeing Co., which is dedicated to promoting education and the arts within the Southern Maryland community. The Boeing Company grant allows Sotterley Plantation to continue holding the Speaker Series free of charge to the general public.

Free Diabetes Fair on Saturday St. Mary’s Hospital’s seventh annual Diabetes Fair will be held on Saturday, Nov. 7, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Lexington Park Library. Local physicians will speak on diabetes-related topics, and free health screenings and samples will be offered. Certified diabetes educators also will be available to answer questions. Detecting diabetes early can prevent damage to the heart, kidneys, nerves, blood vessels and eyes. Unfortunately, many people with diabetes do not know they have it until serious complications develop. The American Diabetes Association recommends routine blood glucose screenings for individuals with one or more risk factors, which include: • Family history of diabetes • Obesity • High blood pressure • Inactivity • History of gestational diabetes or delivering a baby weighing more than nine pounds • African American, Hispanic, American Indian or Pacific Island descent For more information, call 301-475-6185.

Life Enrichment Wins Award The Center for Life Enrichment, a not-for-profit agency in Hollywood that supports adult individuals with disabilities, is pleased to announce the Archdiocese of Washington selected the center to receive the St. John Vianney Award for its high quality programs and services enhancing the potential of individuals with disabilities. The award was presented after the annual Partnership Mass with Persons who are Deaf and Persons with Disabilities held at Little Flower School in Great Mills.

The County Times

e H i r h l o s i o m m A

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Community

Community Cleanup Crew Welcomes Volunteers

Furniture Come Join Us For Our Submitted Photo

The St. Mary’s Square Merchants Association recently hosted a fall festival as way to give back to the community and also attract patrons to the shopping center on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park.

At New Location

November 7th, 2009 Prizes Food Radio • 98.3 T-Bone & Heather No Sales Tax To All Current & Former Military

Sale Held Thru Veterans Day

240-237-8228

www.AmishHeirloomFurniture.com In The Wildewood Center

The merchants in the St. Mary’s Square shopping center on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park are looking for volunteers for a community clean-up scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 7, and possibly Sunday, Nov. 8, starting at 8:30 a.m. Organizers have already lined up about 20 students from Great Mills High School who are part of Project Possible, a service learning group that teams high school students with community projects. Luanne Rounavar, facilitator for Project Possible and a teacher at Great Mills High School, said that different groups had come together under the umbrella of the St. Mary’s Square Business Association and the county Department of Economic and Community Development. “I understand the county is going to be there doing some thing to clean up the brush … we have kind of a mix of some teachers and students doing more cleaning near the wooded areas around the shopping center,” said Rounavar, who added that cleanup efforts may con-

tinue through Sunday, depending on how much crews get done. For more information on the cleanup effort, and to volunteer, call Hans Welch at 301475-4200, ext. 1407. The merchants’ association is also planning fundraisers to benefit the Great Mills High School food pantry, the Leah’s House shelter and the United Way. “The St. Mary’s Square merchants are trying to give back to the community that’s in need, to do things that benefit everybody,” said Tina Garrison with the association. On Saturday, the merchants will also host their regular community yard sale between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. The yard sales are held the first and third Saturdays. The cost is $15 to rent a space to sell goods., and proceeds go to the merchants association to host activities for the local community. To reserve a space, call Garrison at 240-577-0955. The association also recently held a fall festival and are planning a winter festival for Saturday, Dec. 5.

NARFE, Chapter 969 Meeting The deadline for making reservations for the St. Mary’s County Chapter 969, National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) meeting is Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. The meeting will be held at Olde Breton Inn in Leonardtown on Nov. 20. Guest speaker will be Ken Norris, John Hancock Insurance. The social hour begins at 11 a.m. and lunch is at noon. The cost is $14.50. Reservations for lunch are required. Call Pam Allgood at 301862-7778 or Janet Tippett at 301373-8583. Members will be charged for the cost of lunch if reservations are not kept or cancelled by the deadline. If you are interested in only attending the meeting, it begins at 12:45 p.m.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The County Times

Thursday, Nov. 5

sale. Cost is $25 per person in advance only. Call Carlene at 301-655-0522.

Go to www.pllps.org for more information.

• Southern Maryland Mobile Compassion Center St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (Mechanicsville) – 10 a.m. Provides food, clothing and spiritual care to people in need. Basic need items are provided free of charge to those seeking assistance. For more information, call 301-884-5184.

• Concert: Choir and Chamber Singers and SMCM Brass Ensemble St. Mary’s College (Montgomery Hall 25) – 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Performing John Rutter’s modern rendition of “Gloria” and the music of Josquin des Prez, Anton Bruckner, and Morten Lauridzen. Concert is free and open to the public. For more information, call Audrey Hamilton at 240-895-4498 or e-mail aghamilton@ smcm.edu.

• SMAWL Pet Adoptions PetCo (California) – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• So. Md. Higher Education Center Open House 44219 Airport Rd., California – 4 to 7 p.m. Learn more about 90 degree programs from 10 universities offered at the center. Call 301-737-2500 or go to www.smhec.org. • Basket Bingo Mechanicsville VFD Social Hall – 5:30 p.m. For table reservations, call Joyce Downs at 301-884-8829. • Taco Night VFW Post 2632 (California) – 5:30 p.m. • “12 Angry Jurors” Chopticon High School Auditorium – 7 p.m. CHS and Bravehouse Productions present “12 Angry Jurors.” Tickets are $5 for students and $7 for adults. • “The Pink Panther Strikes Again” Great Mills High School Auditorium – 7:30 p.m. GMHS Hornet’s Theater students will present the play “The Pink Panther Strikes Again.” Admission $6 for adults, $4 for students and children 5 and under are free. • American Legion Meeting American Legion Post 221 (Avenue) – 8 p.m. Visit http://www.geocities.com/ alpost221 or e-mail at alpost221@ netscape.net. Call Gail Murdock at 301-884-4071.

Friday, Nov. 6 • Thanksgiving Community Food Drive 45315 Alton Lane #16032 (California) – 9 a.m. Collecting nonperishable donations for the preparing of thanksgiving meal baskets. • Southern Maryland Mobile Compassion Center St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (Mechanicsville) – 10 a.m. • “The Case of the Mysterious Benefactor” Mt. Zion United Methodist Church Family Life Center, Mechanicsville – 6 p.m. A comedy Mystery Dinner Theater at Café Flambe. Show is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. Menu includes appetizers, roast beef, roast chicken breast, parsley potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, French bread, iced tea, coffee and dessert. Sodas for

• First Friday Celebration Leonardtown – 5 p.m. Join us for art, food, shopping and socializing while exploring the nooks and crannies of Leonardtown. To learn more about special discounts offered by participating businesses, visit www.Leonardtownfirstfridays. com. • Spaghetti Dinner Hollywood Vol. Fire Department Social Hall – 5 p.m. • Seventh Annual Storytelling Festival All Saints Church Hall (Oakley Rd., Avenue) – 7 p.m. Call 301-769-2920 for more information. • “12 Angry Jurors” Chopticon High School Auditorium – 7 p.m. • Sotterley Plantation Speaker Series Sotterley Plantation Barn (Hollywood) – 7 p.m. Dr. Bradley Gottfried, President of The College of Southern Maryland, will describe the events that occurred in St. Mary’s County during the Civil War. Free to the public. Call 301-3732280 for reservations. • “The Pink Panther Strikes Again” Great Mills High School Auditorium – 7:30 p.m. • Newtowne Players: “The Fantasticks” Three Notch Theater (Lexington Park) – 8 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 7 • Holiday Craft & Train Show Benefits Chopticon High School bands – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Crafts, train displays, trains on sale, kids table, bake sale, barbecue, homemade soups, meatballs, pizza, hot dogs, coffee, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, donuts. Admission $5 per person, children under 12 free. • Fifth Annual Open House Charlotte Hall Veterans Home – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 301-884-8171 or visit www. charhall.org for more information. • Point Lookout Lighthouse Open House Lighthouse at Point Lookout State Park – 10 a.m.

• Paper Bag Auction St. Michael’s School – 6:30 p.m. Drawing begins at 7 p.m. in the gym. Tickets $2 per envelope, each envelope includes 24 tickets. Food for sale. Call 301-872-5454. • Southern Maryland Mobile Compassion Center St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (Mechanicsville) – 10 a.m. • Winter Bazaar St. Andrew’s Church (California) – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Hoedown at the Fairgrounds St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds (Leonardtown) – 6:30 p.m. Find out more at www.HoedownAtFairgrounds.com. • Seventh Annual Storytelling Festival All Saints Church Hall (Oakley Rd., Avenue) – 7 p.m. • All Faith Episcopal Church Fall Dinner Mechanicsville VFD – noon to 5 p.m. Fried oysters, stuffed ham, fried chicken, side dishes, drinks. $18 for adults, $8 for children 8 and younger. Call 301-884-3773 or visit www.allfaithchurch.com. • “The Case of the Mysterious Benefactor” Mt. Zion United Methodist Church Family Life Center, Mechanicsville – 6 p.m. • “12 Angry Jurors” Chopticon High School Auditorium – 7 p.m. • “The Pink Panther Strikes Again” Great Mills High School Auditorium – 7:30 p.m. • Newtowne Players: “The Fantasticks” Three Notch Theater (Lexington Park) – 8 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 8 • All-You-Can-Eat Fall Dinner Immaculate Heart of Mary, Lexington Park – 12-5 p.m. Stuffed ham, fried oysters, Filipino lumpia and pansit, fried chicken, parsley potato, green beans, rolls and free drinks. Craft rooms. Call church at 301-863-8144 or go to Web site at www.ihmrcc.org. • Seventh District VFD Auxiliary Annual Craft Fair 21660 Colton Point Rd. (Avenue) – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information or to rent a table, call 301-769-2654 or 301-769-2614. • Our Lady’s Church Oyster Scald St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds (Leonardtown) – 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 301-475-8403 for more information.

L ibrary

Items

• Libraries to be closed All three libraries will be closed on Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans’ Day. The library’s Book Cart Drill Team and Book Guard will perform in the Veterans’ Day Parade in Leonardtown. Lexington Park Library will be closed from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, for staff training. The other two branches will be open. • Children can enjoy Mo Willems’ stories The final Mo Willems’ program, “Stories with the Pigeon,” will be Nov. 9 at Charlotte Hall at 5:30 p.m. The program which is geared for preschool and early elementary students will feature stories, themed snacks, a play, games and crafts. Registration is requested for this free program. • Opening reception scheduled for Calvert Artists’ Guild An opening reception will be held Nov. 10 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Lexington Park Library Art Gallery for the members of Calvert Artists’ Guild whose artwork is on display through the end of November. The purpose of the Guild is to further and develop interest in all mediums of art and to promote the appreciation of art. Artists interested in displaying artwork at the library gallery should contact Candy • Basket Bingo for Second Hope Rescue Mechanicsville Moose Lodge – 1 p.m., games at 2 p.m. Baskets won during regular games come with a Longaberger Holiday Tote. Admission is $20 for 20 regular games. Call Second Hope Rescue (finds homes for dogs and cats) at 240925-0628 or e-mail mcbeuchart@hotmail.com.

Monday, Nov. 9 • Thanksgiving Community Food Drive 45315 Alton Lane #16032 (California) – 9 a.m. • SMAWL Low Cost Rabies Clinic St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds (Leonardtown) – 6 p.m. $10 per shot. All dogs must be on a leash or in carrier. Aggressive dogs need muzzles or should remain in vehicle. Animals must be at least 16 weeks old and vaccinations require current rabies certificate (tags cannot be accepted). • No Limit Texas Hold’Em St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge (California) – 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 10 • Nature Time at Greenwell Greenwell State Park (Hollywood) – 10 a.m.

Cummings at 301-863-6693. • TAGs to meet at libraries The next TAG (Teen Advisory Group) meeting will be at Charlotte Hall on Nov. 12 at 5 p.m. and at Leonardtown on Nov. 12 at 5:30 p.m. Snacks are provided. Leonardtown’s TAG will hold a teen game night on Nov. 10 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. • Illustrator Hank Caruso to present program The public is invited to meet Hank Caruso on Nov. 18 at Leonardtown Library and listen him discuss the creation of the artwork for the book, “X-traordinary Planes, X-traordinary Pilots,” which he illustrated. Caruso is known for his Aerocatures. Book signing follows with books available for purchase. Book proceeds go to the Society of Experimental Test Pilots Foundation. The program starts at 6:30 p.m. and is free. • Release of New Moon to be celebrated Twilight fans can celebrate the release of the movie, “New Moon” at 6 p.m. on Nov. 18 at Lexington Park, at 4 p.m. on Nov. 19 at Charlotte Hall and at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 19 at Leonardtown. The parties will feature themed snacks, trivia contests, and lively book discussions. Please register. This week’s theme is “Until Next Time.” Pre-registration (no later than 24 hours in advance) is required via e-mail at lpranzo@greenwellfoundation.org or by calling the Greenwell Foundation office at 301-373-9775. • St. Mary’s ABATE Meeting Toot’s Bar (Hollywood) – 7:30 p.m. For more information call 301481-5622 or email ABATE.SoMd. events@gmail.com. • Zamanakos History Lecture St. Mary’s College Auerbach Auditorium – 8 p.m. Presentation will examine key moments in the history of U.S.-Mexican relations concerning the drug trade and immigration. Call 240-8954108 for more information.

Wednesday, Nov. 11 • Veteran’s Day Parade Washington Street (Leonardtown) – 10 a.m. Followed by a Veterans Memorial Ceremony on the Town Square with guest speakers, patriotic music and laying of wreaths. Call 301-475-9791. • SMAWL Monthly Meeting Garvey Center, 41780 Baldridge St. (Leonardtown) – 7 p.m. Call 301-373-5659 for more information. • Special Olympics No Limit Hold’Em Tournament Bennett Building, 24930 Old Three Notch Rd. (Hollywood) – 7 p.m.

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

A Journey Through Time The

By Linda Reno Contributing Writer

: g n i r i H w o N Md Environmental Service has a vacancy for an Environmental Systems Supervisor at the Point Lookout facility. Responsibilities include supervising and assisting in the operation, monitoring and maintenance of one or more water, wastewater or industrial wastewater treatment systems. Wastewater experience required. For complete job description, required qualifications, visit http://www. menv.com/career_800152.shtml. Send resumes Attn: 800152 to MES HR, 259 Najoles Rd, Millersville, MD 21108, or fax to 410-729-8235, or email to resumes@menv.com

One of my favorite pictures from my book “Images of America: St. Mary’s County” is the one shown here today. Taken about 1915, it is of Benedict, Philip, and Eleanor Love, the children of Benedict Booth Love and Ann “Annie” May Graves. Eleanor was angry when the picture was taken because she wanted to be on the bicycle. She refused to hold the f lowers and was only partly c o n s ol e d by being allowed to hold her wooden hor se. Look a little closer and you’ll note that her shoes were on the wrong feet. H e r father, B e n e d ic t B o o t h Love, was an under taker for many years. By 1930 he was Deputy Collector of Taxes. This job probably didn’t make him particularly popular, but his father, Philip Greenwell Love, took on a role during the Civil War that was lifethreatening. He was a recruiting official for the Union Army. “Philip G. Love, who resigned as enrolling officer in that county, described the atmosphere as being ‘surrounded by a hostile foe. I occupy a very peculiar position in this County when I say there is no man that lives in the County that has been stigmatized and condemned more than I for my Loyal or union sentiments. It may be that I

Chronicle

have talked too much.... Many men have left here at different times since the outbreak of the Rebellion and supposed to be in the Confederate service. Others have left here lately supposed to … escape the draft.... I do not believe that my Brother or myself could ride three hours in attempting to enroll our Dist[rict] without being shot. We have been openly and publicly threatened. We have also been advised ... that if we qualified for said office we would only be signing our own Death warrants’.” Keep in mind that Lincoln received only one vote in St. Mary’s County in 1860. That would be repeated in Prince George’s County and Calvert County. In Charles County he received six votes. Overall, Lincoln received only 2.5% of the popular vote in the state of Maryland. Union officials would rectify that situation by the time of the 1864 election. Maryland was now occupied by Federal troops. In St. Mary’s County, soldiers were stationed at each of the voting sites, with some of them actually voting despite the fact they were not residents nor were they enrolled. Voter intimidation and coercion was rampant throughout the state. Voters were required to sign an oath of allegiance prior to actually voting. This time Lincoln would receive 55.1% of the popular vote in Maryland. From 2.5% to 55.1% with a war raging, sons and fathers having escaped to enlist in the CSA or having been drafted into the Union a r m y , farms gone Photo Courtesy of Betty Peterson to waste, and families in dire want? Would any logical person believe that Lincoln’s popularity actually increased in Maryland by over 50%? If you do, I have another one for you. The war was all about slavery. No, it wasn’t and that’s not why it started. The Emancipation Proclamation freed no slaves. Its purpose was to punish the Southern states over which Lincoln had no control anyway. It did not affect slavery in the Northern states (and in occupied Maryland).

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The County Times

e r u t a e F Creature Wanderings The African Elephant In England, the Speaker of the House is not allowed to speak.

un Fact

of an Aimless

Min

Candy Crunch By Shelby Oppermann Contributing Writer

By Theresa Morr Contributing Writer The African elephant is the largest land mammal on earth, and that’s about 14,000 pounds of might for an adult male. But it’s more than just its massive body that makes this beautiful creature a natural wonder in the animal world. For the African elephant, size really does matter, so let’s take a look at its most prominent features: Trunks. The elephant’s trunk, or nose, has an incredible 100,000 or so muscles, far more than you have in your whole body. Besides breathing, smelling, touching, drinking, trumpeting, and grabbing stuff to chow down on, these big boys do incredible feats with their strong, sensitive, and flexible trunks. Maybe you’ve seen elephants on Animal Planet doing heavy duty tasks like lifting and rolling logs, and tearing down big trees. But elephants can gently pick up small things, too, like a twig or even a coin off the ground. One of their favorite things is sucking water into its trunk and then spraying it all over themselves, followed by a nice soothing “powdering” of dust. It’s easy to see why an elephant could not survive without its trunk. How many other things can you think of that an elephant can do with its trunk? Ears. African elephants have enormous ears, each one about six feet wide. The ears are made up of a sheet of cartilage covered over by thin skin. On hot windless days, the elephant flaps it ears like a gigantic fan to regulate its body temperature. The ears are very sensitive and can pick up the slightest sounds around them. Elephants use both high and low frequency sounds when communicating. For other elephants at a distance, low frequency rumbles are used, while high frequency sounds like trumpeting are used to communicate to nearby elephants. Those huge ears are also used as a

means of defense. To scare off an aggressor, the elephant spreads its ears wide giving the appearance of a huge frontal attack. Tusks. These are just very long incisor teeth, and they grow continuously about seven inches a year. Only about two-thirds of the tusks are seen as the rest are embedded within the elephant’s skull. By observing the tusks, the age of an elephant can be determined. And guess what? Just as humans can be left or right-handed, elephants can be left-tusked or right-tusked! Because of constant use, the favored tusk is shorter. In addition to carrying heavy objects on their tusks, elephants also use them for digging, ripping bark off trees, all-around foraging, and as weapons. Can you name some other things that elephants do with their tusks? Elephants in danger. The African elephant is on the threatened species list because their tusks are valuable to poachers who kill the animal and illegally sell their tusks. Despite efforts to eliminate violence to elephants, poaching remains widespread in some parts of Africa. Elephant tidbits: • Eight to 13 feet high at the shoulder. • Trunk about eight feet long, base to tip. • Tusks about five to eight feet long, each weighing around 50 to 200 pounds. • Teeth are worn down and replaced six times. • Can move along at about 25 mph on tiptoes. • Eats about 300 pounds of roots, fruit, grasses, and bark every day. • Females give birth to a single calf every 2 to 4 years. Gestation is 22 months. • Life span is about 70 years in the wild. To learn lots more about African elephants, check out this really cool website: http://kids. nationalgeographic.com/Animals/CreatureFeature/African-elephant.

Wow, our Halloween trails were great this year. We had more kids than last year. Thanks to all who came through, and all who helped us put it together. The after party was pretty nice too - sitting under a tent with the pouring rain all around us. The only problem is that we have leftover candy; more was brought to add to our pile. My husband will gradually lessen the pile over time. None of my favorites are in there. And I don’t want to even look at another package of Swedish Fish for another year. My favorite candies have always been Sweet Tarts, Jolly Ranchers, and Good & Plenty. You know I like to research odd things. I just looked up Good & Plenty candy and found that it was developed in 1893 and is the oldest branded candy in the United States. Usually I am a candy cruncher; too impatient to let them dissolve in my mouth. Remember the Tootsie Pop commercials from years ago, where the little boy asks Mr. Owl, “How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop? ”Mr. Owl responds, “a one, a two, a three” then crunches the pop and says “Three”. That’s me. I did have to watch all the old Tootsie Pop commercials on their website strictly for research – the singing along was extra. My husband has now covered his head for some reason. They even have a $50,000 contest for people to guess how many licks it takes to get to the center. I better get to the store. Candy has also gotten me into serious trouble. No it wasn’t choking, that I always did with Cracker Jack, attempting to quickly eat my way down through the box to the prize. When I was very young, we were on one of our shopping trips to what was the big city – Marlow Heights and Iverson Mall. You might remember the old Sears store in the mall. I always loved watching that large seal statue that used pressured

air to keep a beach ball floating in mid-air. Down the escalator below the seal was a candy section with those 6-inch swirly lolli-pops. My sweet Grandmother bought me one. I got a few licks in before I soon tired of it. We had barely made it home before I started having convulsions. The Doctor was called and I was made to drink warm coke as a remedy. My Mother was sure that some sick kid had gotten a hold of that lolli-pop before I did, and that’s what made me sick. That never explained the other seizures previously or afterwards. The other candy incident was from me being like the curious cat. While my Mother would nap during the day, I would wander around the house to see what would intrigue me (haven’t changed much). It’s never good to let children under four have the run of the house. One day I found my mother’s sewing kit in the bottom kitchen cabinet. She kept the sewing items in an old metal candy box, which was nearly rusted shut. It took a long time but I finally got it open and rooted around. I was so excited when I found two red and white good & plenty candies in a little tin. I immediately popped them in my mouth and started crunching. A burning pain exploded all through my mouth and I was having trouble breathing. I was more scared of waking my Mother than of what was happening. I took my little stool in the bathroom and looked in the mirror. My tongue was swelling to twice its size and was all chopped up. Time to wake Mommie. Apparently, the Good & Plenty candies were smelling salt glass capsules. I had to be retaught how to swallow after that. No, I’ve never been too bright, but I still love Good & Plenty candies. To each new day’s adventure, Shelby Please send comments or ideas to: shelbys.wanderings@ yahoo.com.

The County Times

Thursday, Nov. 5 • David Norris DB McMillan’s Pub (California) – 6 p.m.

• Country Memories Band St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds (Leonardtown) – 6:30 p.m.

• Roadhouse Band Lone Star Café (Indian Head) – 9 p.m.

• DJ Charlie Thompson Toot’s Bar (Hollywood) – 7 p.m.

• Randy Richie (piano) Café des Artistes (Leonardtown) – 6:30 p.m.

• Comedy Club Night Cadillac Jack’s (Lexington Park) – 8 p.m.

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

• Quiz Night Buffalo Wings & Beer (Leonardtown) – 7:30 p.m.

• Joey Tippett and the California Ramblers Anderson’s Bar (Avenue) – 8 p.m.

• Starcrush Hotel Charles (Hughesville) – 10 p.m.

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

• Live Jazz Night Chef’s American Bistro (California) – 8 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 6 • David Norris DB McMillan’s Pub (California) – 6 p.m. • Gretchen & Randy Richie Vincenzo’s (Dowell) – 6:30 p.m. • DJ Charlie Thompson Toot’s Bar (Hollywood) – 7 p.m. • Open Blues Jam Fat Boys Country Store (Leonardtown) – 8 p.m. • Live Jazz Night Chef’s American Bistro (California) – 8 p.m. • Absinthe Memories (Waldorf) – 9 p.m.* • DJ Night Apehanger’s Bar (Bel Alton) – 9 p.m.

• RedWineJazz Band Westlawn Inn (North Beach) – 8 p.m.

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

• Swamp Cats Band Toot’s Bar (Hollywood) – call • Joey Tippett and the California Ramblers Scott’s II (Welcome) – 2 p.m.

• Capt. Woody Apehanger’s Bar (Bel Alton) – 9 p.m. • Four of a Kind VFW Post 10081 (Bel Alton) – 9 p.m.

• Milford Station and DJ Mike Apehanger’s Bar (Bel Alton) – 3 p.m.

• Karaoke w/ DJ Tommy T & DJ T Applebee’s (California) – 9 p.m.

• Terra Naomi Black Box Theater (Indian Head) – 8 p.m.

• Legend Blue Dog Saloon (Port Tobacco) – 9 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 9

• Middle Ground Hotel Charles (Hughesville) – 9 p.m.*

(No events scheduled)

Tuesday, Nov. 10 • Karaoke Chef’s American Bistro (California) – 7 p.m.

• Permanent Damage Murphy’s Pub (Bryan’s Road) – 9 p.m. • Three Sixty Vera’s White Sands Beach Club (Lusby) – 9 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 8

• Bent Nickel CJ’s Backroom (Lusby) – 8:30 p.m.

• No Green JellyBeenz Hula’s Bungalow (California) – 9 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 11 • Quagmire Scott’s II (Welcome) – 9 p.m.

• Open Blues Jam Beach Cove (Chesapeake Beach) – 8 p.m. • Mike Mead Blue Dog Saloon (Port Tobacco) – 9 p.m.

n O g Goin

What’s

• Six Gun South Cryer’s Back Road Inn (Leonardtown) – 9 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 7

• The Craze Drift Away Bar & Grill (Cobb Island) – 9:30 p.m.

• Live Jazz/Blues/Bluegrass Chef’s American Bistro (California) – 6 p.m.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

*Call to confirm

In Entertainment

For family and community events, see our calendar in the community section on page 21.

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.

Newtowne Players Stage a “Fantastick” Farce By Andrea Shiell Staff Writer

it becomes ridiculous before the action has even begun, which is probably the point. It’s true. If you want your kids to It’s easy to smirk as young Matt do anything, just tell them they can’t. and Luisa and roll your eyes at their That at least is the premise of the idealism, but their subsequent plunge Newtowne Players’ latest production, from such ideals makes for a tragic “The Fantasticks,” which will open at twist to the story, and one can’t help Three Notch Theater on Nov. 6. but hope that some of that childish roHailed as the longest-running manticism returns. musical in the world, the show about When asked which characters “a boy, a girl, two fathers and a wall”, she identified with most, producer follows the story of two young lovers, Gloria Ranta laughed and shook her Matt and Luisa, who grow up next head. door to one another separated by a “The fathers, even though the wall put up by their feuding fathers. fathers are men, but women have the What the kids don’t know is that same sense of concern about young the feud is manufactured, designed people who are going off with this specifically to make them fall in love idealistic view of the world, and you as an act of defiance. want so much to be able to put what is in your head in their heads,” she said. “In this play the lesson gets learned in kind of a fantasy way, and it turns out that learning that lesson early isn’t all that great either, but I share the parents’ trepidation of children going naively forward.” Director Kerry Robinson said that putting on a musical had been a challenge for him. Photo By Andrea Shiell “I haven’t done Steve Fogle, Kari Jo Tiede, Ryan Hancock and Larry a musical – directed a Sylvestro star in the Newtowne Players’ production musical – since I was of “The Fantasticks,” which opens at Three Notch in college. I went to St. Theater on Nov. 6. Mary’s College, and Luisa (played by Kari Jo Tiede) putting that together is very different and Matt (Ryan Hancock) are in- from putting a straight play together. deed idealistic (almost annoyingly You have different people controlling so), but it seems apparent that their other elements that you then have to fathers (played by Steve Fogle and merge when you’re already about half Larry Silvestro) would like them to way into the rehearsal time. I’m used to finish: 20more minutes stay that way. So in orderStart to dissolve to having control and building it their imaginary feud, they manufac- 4 just from my own perspective instead Servings: ture a scenario in which Luisa will of having to have this person do that,” be kidnapped and Matt will come to he said. “It has felt like we weren’t as her rescue, hiring an actor named El far along when we started putting all Gallo (Robert Rausch) along with his the pieces together four or five weeks cohorts to stage the drama. out of opening … so it’s been a little Of course one can imagine all more nerve-wracking.” the ways such a plan might backfire, All the same, Robinson said he but in this case the plan’s perfection was excited to see the play coming is its own undoing as the two lovers together. start to realize that nothing is as per“The music’s great, the cast are fect as it seems. really well balanced … it really does Based loosely on “The Romanc- flow well,” he added. “I’m pleased ers” (“Les Romanesques”) by Ed- with the outcome.” mond Rostand, and borrowing ele“The Fantasticks” will be playments from Pyramus and Thisbe (the ing at the Three Notch Theater in story that inspired Romeo & Juliet, Lexington Park from Nov. 6 to Nov. about two lovers who occupy con- 22. For more information, call 301nected houses and who are forbidden 737-5447 or go to www.newtowneby their rivaling parents to wed), this players.org. is one of those stories that draws so much on the naivety of young lovers andreashiell@countytimes.net and their unrealistic expectations that

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The County Times

Business

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

Law Offices of

P.A. Hotchkiss & Associates Since 1987

WHERE YOUR LEGAL MATTER-MATTERS

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

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

(301) 997-8271

Serving the Southern Maryland Area Accepting All Major Credit Cards

Deadlines for Classifieds are Tuesday at 12 pm. 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

Beautiful rambler in Breton Bay. Kitchen remodeled with new cooktop range, two bathrooms totally remodeled, both tiled with heated flooring in both bathrooms.Tiled shower stall in master bath, and tiled tub/shower in other bathroom. Oak planked hardwood floors in livingroom, hallway and all bedrooms. Two car garage, with large workroom, screened in patio off kitchen, french doors open to new deck overlooking backyard. Horseshoe driveway idea for boatowners. Basement has insert fireplace, 1/2 bath, walk out sliding door to back yard. 1/2 acre lot. Price: $285,000. Call 301-475-5591 for more information. Custom home by well known local builder to be built on your choice of 6 large lots in small subdivision. Wooded lots availiable. Close to shopping & schools. Less than 1 hr. from D.C.,Alexandria & Arlington,VA., 35 min. to Andrews Air Force Base, & Dahlgren, VA,& 25 min. from Pax. River Navel Base. 2 car garage & full unfi nished basement. Kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances & pantry. Separate breakfast & dining rooms. Large familyroom with vaulted ceiling. Master suite with sitting area & walk-in closet. Wood floor in entry. Covered porch. Quality at an affordable price. Call (301)373-8111 or (240)298-8427 for additional information. Agents welcomed. Price: $351,490.

Real Estate Rentals

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

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

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

Available immediately! Beautiful, top floor condo in the safe and serene Wildewood community. Freshly painted and cleaned in move-in condition. Park like setting with nearby pool and shopping. Just 8 miles from Navair! Please call or email with questions. 301-904-7452. Rent: $1150. 2 bedroom 1 bath mobile home for rent in Ridge, MD. Located 9 miles south of Pax Naval Base and Lexington Park on Three Notch Rd. $675 per month $675 security deposit. NO PETS. Nice quiet neighborhood. Call 410-245-9973.

Help Wanted CCNC is seeking a payroll coordinator to handle payroll, employee benefits, workers comp, unemployment and employee verifications. This position would be scheduled for 32 hours a week. Hourly rate $12 - $15/hour depending on experience. CCNC is located in Prince Frederick, MD. Please email resume to jgarofalo@ ccncmd.org.

Vehicles I have a very nice 1995 Jeep Cherokee Limited that I want to sell it is in good condition if your are intrested in this jeep please let me know by e-mailing me at james43g@yahoo.com. I’m asking $1500 for it. CORVETTES WANTED! Any year, any condition. Cash buyer. 1-800-369-6148.

Creating your Digital Memories

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

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, November 5, 2009

CLUES ACROSS

For Last For 10/22/09 Week’s Issue Issue

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

ner

KiddKioer

1. Domesticated 5. ____ A Sketch 9. Take in solid food 12. Dwarf buffalo 13. Cut-rate 15. Resound 16. To snarl, growl 17. Slang for money 18. Small brown songbird 19. Point one point N. of due E. 20. Public lecture halls 22. Clairvoyance 25. Departer 26. Egyptian statesman Anwar 28. Reverence 29. Pinna 32. Tap gently 33. Mother-of-pearl 35. ___ Dhabi, Arabian capital 36. Doctors’ group 37. Mahatmas 39. Command right 40. Resin-like insect secretion 41. Arm bones 43. Confined condition (abbr.) 44. Type of pension account 45. Am___: sufficient 46. Satisfies fully 48. Trout spawning nest 49. Senior officer

50. South American country 54. The cry made by sheep 57. Goora nut tree 58. Having high moral qualities 62. Anthropologist Henri Breuil 64. “Jekyll & Hyde” singer Linda 65. Scornful expression 66. Fleeces 67. Single-reed instrument 68. Covered Greek colonnade 69. = to 27.34 grains

CLUES DOWN

1. Price label 2. ____ Frank’s diary 3. Ancient Dead sea kingdom 4. Gained through work 5. Electronic countermeasures 6. Vietnamese revolutionary Le Duc 7. Executive manager title 8. October holiday 9. Beige 10. Polite interruption sound 11. A large amount 14. One who receives money

15. Female sheep 21. Atomic #24 23. Diego or Francisco 24. Pesetas 25. Used mouthwash 26. 1st Philippine island discovered 27. Manila hemp 29. US 10 dollar gold coin 30. In a way, assists 31. Regretted 32. Spanish artist Salvador 34. Witche’s boiling vessels 38. Impertinence 42. “Jurassic Park” actor Neill 45. Workers held in low esteem 47. Knights’ garment 48. Rural delivery 50. Supplements with difficulty 51. Formal close (music) 52. Irish gorse genus 53. Swiss river 55. ____igine: native 56. Swedish rock group 59. Wager 60. Famous lion 61. Period of time 63. Brid___aid: attendant

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

A View From The

BLEACHERS

11/5 - 11/9/2009

Breaking The Vow Of Competitive Athletics

Thurs. Nov. 5 Cross Country Chopticon at 3A South Regional, Oak Ridge Park, 3 p.m. Great Mills/Leonardtown at 4A East Regional, Baybrook Park, 3 p.m.

Fri., Nov. 6 Football Chopticon at Leonardtown, 7 p.m. Huntingtown at Great Mills, 7 p.m. Bishop Ireton vs. St. Mary’s Ryken at Lancaster Park, 7 p.m.

Volleyball 3A South Regional First Round Chopticon at Westlake, 6 p.m. 4A East Regional First Round Annapolis at Great Mills, 5 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

By Ronald N. Guy Jr. Contributing Writer What is the solemn vow of competitive athletics? What is it that we assume – because it is so fundamental to the forum – when we root, compete or coach in a competitive athletic environment? It is, very simply, that the better team on a particular day will prevail and, to dovetail the point, that ultimately the best team will win the championship. Victory in the competitive arena of sport, to its credit and appeal, knows no color, is uncaring of athletic pedigree, is unsympathetic of cause and ignores potential ratings or storybook endings. You win or you lose based on your ability to perform. Harsh? Maybe, but without this basic tenet, competitive athletics would be little more than professional wrestling or the orchestration of a Hollywood script. With it, sport is the original reality show and has a beautifully democratic process of determining the winner and ultimately, the champion. It is this truly democratic process, one which has historically been a step ahead of our country’s democratic endeavors, that gives those who touch sports hope, hope that the thrill of victory is just a season, the

10/21-26/2009 Thurs., Oct. 29

Annapolis 4, Leonardtown 0

Boys’ Soccer

Football

4A East Regional First Round Arundel 1, Great Mills 0

Chopticon 7, Patuxent 6 North Point 26, Great Mills 2 McDonough 35, Leonardtown 0 Riverdale Baptist 20, St. Mary’s Ryken 7

Field Hockey 3A South Regional Quarterfinals Northern 4, Chopticon 3 (double overtime) 4A East Regional First Round Severna Park 13, Great Mills 0

Girls’ Soccer 4A East Regional First Round Great Mills 3, Glen Burnie 2

Fri., Oct. 30

Boys’ Soccer 3A South Regional First Round Chopticon 1, Westlake 0

Field Hockey 4A East Regional Quarterfinals

Girls’ Soccer 3A South Regional First Round Chopticon 16, Crossland 0

Volleyball St. Mary’s Ryken 3, The Kings’ Christian Academy 0

Tues., Nov. 3

Boys’ Soccer 4A East Regional Quarterfinals Leonardtown 3, Arundel 0

Girls’ Soccer 4A East Regional Quarterfinals Leonardtown 6, Great Mills 0

next game or the next play away. It keeps local softball players crashing into fences, pros showing up to training camp or spring training with renewed vigor, coaches pushing players and long-suffering Cubs fans rooting for their lovable losers. And so, is it any surprise that some of the biggest stains on sports’ history involve the compromise of true competition? Think about it. The Black Sox scandal, Pete Rose’s gambling and steroid use (from Canadian Olympic sprinter Ben Johnson to the steroid era in baseball) immediately come to mind. These are some of the more overt episodes of skewed (steroids) or blatantly altered (Black Sox) on-field results. Yet there is something nearly as offensive being tolerated in college football. The Bowl Championship Series currently decides college football’s champion. The word “Series”, though, is a misnomer, as it is nothing more than a title game and four consolation games using traditional college bowl games. The title game features the top two teams as determined by a super-secret, if-they-told-you-they’d-have-to-kill-you computer formula. Sounds reasonable, doesn’t it? It’s not. It’s a farce. The BCS caters to the ticketselling, ratings-grabbing establishment and snubs its nose at open competition. Of the 10 bids for the five lucrative BCS games, six automatically go to the champs of the six “power” conferences: Big 10, Big 12, Pac 10, ACC, SEC and Big East. There are nearly 120 Division 1A college football teams; 53 compete in these six conferences. The remaining BCS bids are constrained somewhat by the computer rankings (only the top 14 teams are eligible) but

St. Mary’s County Rec and Park Women’s Volleyball Standings Yellow Bus 11-1 R&S Bus Service 10-2 Spalding Consulting 7-2 Safe Sets 5-4 Pine Brook 6-6 NBE 4-5 Easy Wash 5-7 Ritas of Solomons 0-9 ABC liquors 0-12

St. Mary’s County Rec and Park Co-Ed Volleyball Standings Serves You Right 8-1 Team Dumpy 7-2 St. Marys Auto 7-2 Dicks Diggers 6-3 Dig This 5-4 Well Pet 5-4 Dirty Half Dozen 5-4 Center for Cosmetic Surgery 5-4 Chespeake Custom 4-5 Spence Electrical 4-5 Geezer World 3-6 CBL 2-7 Grid Iron Grill 1-8 Block Party 1-8

really are a beauty pageant based on a team’s marketability, an obvious appeasement of the bowl games’ corporate sponsors. Confused yet? While some non-BCS conference schools have played in BCS games, teams outside of the 53 “chosen ones” have little opportunity to compete for the national championship. Even if they win all their games – which TCU and Boise State might do this year, perceived strength of schedule, subjective rankings and other aspects of the mysterious BCS formula have prevented non-BCS conference teams from cracking the glass ceiling (the top two) and qualifying for the title game. When considering the inequities of this system, I recalled observing a mock 18th century trial at Colonial Williamsburg. During jury selection, the crowd was “filtered” to isolate eligible candidates. Excluded were African Americans, Catholics, women and non-landowners. Remaining were white, Protestant and reasonably affluent men. Is this much different than how the BCS filters competitors? It’s not. While less offensive, the BCS’s preferential treatment of college football’s establishment isn’t any more evolved than Colonial America’s jury selection. It is a preferential process that would be completely unacceptable in virtually every area of today’s society. Yet short of an act of Congress, it seems destined to persist. That’s too bad. Winners, and more importantly champions, should be determined on the field by the only judge and jury that matters … the scoreboard. Send comments to rguyjoon@yahoo. com.

Rec and Parks Sports Registrations Coming Up • Boys and girls youth basketball registration for grades 3-8 will be held Nov. 9 at Esperanza Middle School from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Nov. 10 at Lettie Dent Elementary from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and Nov. 12 at Leonardtown Middle School from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Cost is $70. • First- and second-grade youth basketball registrations will be conducted one day only, on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 9-11 a.m. at Esperanza, Lettie Dent and Leonardtown Elementary School. Cost is $45. • Youth indoor soccer registrations will be held Nov. 12, Nov. 17 and Nov. 19 from 79 p.m. at the Leonard Hall Recreation Center. Leagues and divisions will be held for ages 4 through high school, boys and girls. Cost is $55 per player or enter an entire team. • Youth roller hockey registration for players ages 8-14 will also be held at Leonardtown Hall on Nov. 11 and Nov. 18 from 7-9 p.m. Cost is $75. For more information on the above leagues and registrations, call Kenny Sothoron at 301-475-4200, ext. 1830.

The County Times

Raiders Blank Wildcats, Advance in Boys’ Regional By Chris Stevens Staff Writer MORGANZA – Chris Jones scored the game’s first goal on a header and then he lifted his Leonardtown boys’ soccer jersey to reveal a shirt with “Team JP” on it. “This whole thing is for our friend Jordan Paganelli, who’s fighting cancer,” Jones said after his two goals lifted the Raiders to a 3-0 victory over Arundel Tuesday in the 4A East Regional quarterfinals. “We were talking before the game and we decided that this was for JP.” Jones did his classmate proud, scoring two goals in one-minute and

Photo By Frank Marquart

The Raiders’ Brendan Powell maneuvers between two Arundel defenders.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Paz and Rambo Lift Raiders to Quarterfinal Win By Chris Stevens Staff Writer MORGANZA – The Leonardtown girls’ soccer team understands the playoff atmosphere better than anybody. And on the strength of two goals each from seniors Teresa Paz and Johanna Rambo, the defending state champion Raiders marched into the 4A East semifinals, coasting past county rival Great Mills 6-0 Tuesday evening at Chopticon High School. “It motivates us to maintain our standards from last year,” said Paz. “It feels good to start the playoffs off with a win and it gives us some momentum.” “You want always want to get a goal early on,” Rambo, who scored the game’s first goal five minutes and 31 seconds into the first half. “It was great to get off to a good start.” The Hornets, coming off of a 32 first round win over Glen Burnie the previous Thursday did their best to keep up with the powerful Raiders,

29 second span of the first half that sent the Raiders on their way. Brendan Powell assisted on both of Jones’ goals and added one of his own in the second half. “I’m just trying to keep up with Chris,” Powell said with a smile. “They really haven’t connected as much as we would’ve liked this season, but they’re definitely connecting now,” head coach Matt Reber said of Jones and Powell. Reber was pleased with the effort the Raiders showed against the Wildcats, who they saw defeat Great Mills 1-0 last week in the 4A East first round. “Soccer’s such a tough game to scout, that game was very passive and relaxed,” Reber said of last week’s game. “Tonight, this game was intense and I’m Photo By Frank Marquart glad that the guys met the challenge.” Chris Jones rose above Arundel to score two goals in Leonardtown’s 3-0 chrisstevens@countytimes.net victory Tuesday night.

playing them pretty much even in the second half. “There was an intimidation factor,” Hornets head coach Amy Herndon. “The girls played much better in the second half, but the 50/50 balls were tough to overcome.” The Raiders also got goals from Lauren Donovan and Linsday Egbert and will play a semi-final game this evening against an opponent to be determined. The game will likely be at Chopticon also due to the conditions of the Raider Stadium field. “The girls know that they have to be focused because the playoffs are a one-time deal,” said Raiders head coach Jennifer Henderson. “They really get along well as a team, so they just want to keep playing hard to get to one more game.” “Hopefully we’ll have four more together before the state finals,” Rambo said. chrisstevens@countytimes.net

Photo By Frank Marquart

Lauren Donovan (3) watches Teresa Paz score her second goal of the game as Leonardtown defeated Great Mills 6-0 Tuesday night.

Top Seeds Stunned In Field Hockey Playoffs By Chris Stevens Staff Writer

One Seed Raiders losing 4-0 to Annapolis Senior High School, the Braves suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the 3A South quarterfinals, It was a short and heartbreaking trip losing 4-3 to Northern High School in double through the playoffs for the Chopticon and overtime. Leonardtown field hockey teams. “I’ve never wanted anything more than One day prior to the 4A East Number I’ve wanted for these girls to win,” said Braves head coach Anne Vallandingham. “Those 12 seniors are the heart and soul of this program.” The Braves, who ended their season at 8-5, led 1-0 at the half on a Jordan Griffith goal at the 13:34 mark of the first half. Less than four minutes into the second half, Kealy Mullens slapped home a shot for the Patriots to even the score at 1. After another Griffith goal gave the Braves a 2-1 lead, Krista Keisu scored two goals in a two-minute and 44 second span to push Northern ahead 3-2. At the 14:44 mark of the second half, Griffith struck for a third time to knot the score at 3 and send the match into overtime. Photo By Chris Stevens Neither team was able to make Chopticon’s Jessica Bursane and Kealy Mullens of Northern a dent in the first extra period, but in the second, Northern’s constant battle for possession of the ball.

challenge was finally rewarded when Mullens scored her second goal of the game at with 4:36 gone by in the second overtime for the win. “You hope things go your way,” Vallandingham said. “That’s not the way it goes some days.” On Friday, due to rain and a Raiders football game, Leonardtown moved its first round match with eighth-seeded Annapolis to Chopticon’s field and had a hard time offensively, as the Panthers took a 4-0 decision and advanced to the 4A East semi-finals. “We just couldn’t finish,” said Raiders coach Vicki Lydon. “It was frustrating to watch and the girls got frustrated with themselves.” The Raiders had several cracks at the net, but could not score. They held the Panthers to one first half goal, but three in the final 15 minutes of the second half ruined their chances at advancing in the region. Lydon was still proud of her team as they won 11 games this season. “They played hard, they did what we asked them to do,” she said. “It just didn’t Photo By Chris Stevens work for us today.” Michelle Robinson of Leonardtown takes a whack at chrisstevens@countytimes.net

the ball during Friday’s 4A East regional quarterfinal field hockey match.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Sp rts

The County Times

Seahawk Women Ready Seahawk Men Hungry To Return To NCAA Tournament For Season’s Challenges By Chris Stevens Staff Writer

By Chris Stevens Staff Writer ST. MARY’S CITY – In terms of regular season success, the St. Mary’s College men’s basketball team had a great year. Twenty-two wins were the most in school history, and they won their first Capital Athletic Conference regular season championship since 1991, but the year ended with a sour taste as Marymount upset the Seahawks in the conference semi-finals this past February, their first loss at home in over a year. “[Losing that game] left a bitter taste in our mouths,” said junior point guard Alex Franz, an allCAC first time pick last season. “It felt like our season was incomplete.” “I don’t think we have to prove to anybody else that we can win the conference,” said senior guard Camontae Griffin. “We have to prove it to ourselves.” “I still think last year was a good year,” Hawks fourth-year head coach Chris Harney said. “We set the school record for wins and won the regular-season championship, so last year was an ‘A.’ This year, we want to get an ‘A+.’” Less than two years removed from the NCAA Division III Sweet 16, the Seahawks will begin the 200910 season as the pre-season favorite to win the CAC, with depth at nearly every position, which makes life pretty good for Harney. “It seems like we get younger and younger every year,” Harney said, alluding to the fact that Griffin is the lone senior on this year’s team. “We have a core group of veterans and some newcomers that gives us Photo By Frank Marquart some balance.” Along with Franz and Griffin (the team’s lead- Camontae Griffin led the St. Mary’s College men’s basketball team ing scorer at 20.4 points per game last season), junior in scoring last season, averaging 20.4 points per game. forwards Mike Fitzpatrick and Mike Bowden (ques“We’ve been playing against each other school start. Now tionable with knee trouble) and sophomore center Brian we get to beat up on somebody else.” Grashoff will round out the starting five. Sophomore James “I think we’re in a position where we’ll be capable of Davenport will lead a deep and talented group of reserves going to the NCAA tournament every year and even winoff the bench for SMC. ning a championship,” Harney said. “That’s been my goal “It’ll be a lot of fun to get back on the court and play since the day I took over the program.” somebody else,” Griffin said of the start of the season. chrisstevens@countytimes.net

Photo By Frank Marquart

Junior Forward Mike Bowden goes up for a lay-up in a recent practice.

Mike Fitzpatrick (with ball) and Alex Franz return to the Seahawks’ starting line-up this season.

ST. MARY’S CITY – Another year, another limited roster for St. Mary’s College women’s basketball coach Barb Bausch. The third-year coach, despite having just nine available players, is confident coming into the season that the Seahawks will improve on last season’s nine wins, a 50 percent drop from their 2008 total in Bausch’s first season. “The challenges I want to see are the newcomers challenging the experienced players on a daily basis,” Bausch said. “I just want them to come out and play together as a team, and get the right mix of youth and experience.” Exper ience returns in the form Photo By Chris Stevens of junior guards Steph St. Aubin returns to the fold for the St. Mary’s Jamie Roberts and Megan Seeman, College women’s basketball team this season. as well as senior center/forward Alex Wenger. Newcomers include St. Mary’s Ryken graduate Lucy Kuhna. A mix of new and experienced comes with senior guard Steph St. Aubin, who returns to the team after a one-year absence. St. Aubin was the Seahawks’ top scorer in 2007-08, averaging 17.1 points a game and also led the team with 66 steals. St. Aubin’s return should help the Hawks achieve Bausch’s goal of taking advantage of the opponent’s mistakes. “We’re not very tall,” Bausch says, “so we’ve got to get a significant amount of turnovers and convert them into fast breaks.” With practice just starting, Bausch knows that the Capital Athletic Conference, with Marymount, Hood and Salisbury leading the way, will be deep and talented again this year, with no team being able to take a night off. “If you’re not prepared, anyone can and will jump on you,” she says. “We can’t relax against anybody. It’d be nice to have the numbers to do so, but that’s not the case for us.” While preparing the Seahawks for another season, Bausch is making inroads on the recruiting trail and believes that better times are on the way for the SMC women’s program. “The coaches know us now and we’re starting to get looks from players, but when you only have on other person to help with recruiting, it becomes time consuming,” Bausch said. “We’re out their looking for them, but now they’re starting to look for us.” chrisstevens@countytimes.net

Photo By Frank Marquart

Sp rts Ryken Loses Tough One to Riverdale Baptist By Chris Stevens Staff Writer Several times during Friday night’s non-conference football showdown at Lancaster Park did St. Mary’s Ryken have a chance to draw even with Riverdale Baptist. Each time they came up short and dropped a heartbreaking 20-7 decision, moving their record to 3-5 on the season. “We had our chances, we just couldn’t punch it in,” said Knights head coach Bob Harmon. “As a coach, that falls on my shoulders and we’re definitely working on our red zone offense this week.” The red zone, the opponents’ 20-yard line and in, usually results in points for the offense because of its short proximity to the end zone. The Knights’ redzone issues cost them Friday night as turnovers and Riverdale defensive stands kept them from tying the game at 14 in the fourth quarter. Brian Burns scored the game-winning touchdown from seven yards out in the third quarter, and Morgan Taylor added an 84yard run to seal it for the Crusaders (5-5 in 2009). “It’s frustrating for the kids because they work so hard,” Harmon said. “It was a tough loss, definitely a game I felt we could win.” The Knights will put the Riverdale contest behind them as they prepare for their final home game of the season tomorrow night when Washington Catholic Athletic Conference member Bishop Ireton rolls into Lexington Park for action. Game time is 7 p.m. “They’re a very good football team, very disciplined,” Harmon said of his observation of the Cardinals. “They have a really good running back and they’re a spread offense, so it will be another dogfight.” Harmon believes facing a spread offense in practice will help the Ryken defense as they attempt to close out their first home schedule with a winning record. “ W e run a prostyle offense, but we do a lot out of the shotgun with the spread as well,” Harmon explains. “Our kids def i n it ely know how to play in space.”

The County Times

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Football

Hornets Struggle as North Point Pulls Away By Chris Stevens Staff Writer

North Point 26, Great Mills 2

GREAT MILLS – The Great Mills football team’s playoff hopes took what possibly could’ve been a fatal blow, as Southern Maryland Athletic Conference co-leader North Point came away with a 26-2 win Friday night at Hornets Stadium. “When you make mistakes offensively and you leave your defense on there on the field as much as we did, they’re going to be tired,” Hornets head coach Bill Griffith said. “Our guys did a nice job on defense. Offensively, we just made too many mistakes.” The Hornets (5-4 overall, 4-3 SMAC) turned the ball over six times against the Eagles (9-0 overall, 7-0 in SMAC play), but still were only behind five points heading into the fourth quarter. North Point struck first in the second quarter on a five-yard run by senior quarterback Dan Dempsey, who also kicked the extra point for a 7-0 lead. The Hornets got their lone points on a safety later in the quarter when senior linebacker Derrick Petett zipped through the Eagle offensive line and forced Dempsey to intentionally through the ball away in the end zone, causing a penalty and a safety. “Great Mills is a good football team,” said Eagles head coach Ken Lane. “We knew they had some athletes and we just want to improve each week.” The Eagles finally broke away from Great Mills in the fourth quarter as junior fullback Connor Crowell, cornerback Anthony Prince and reserve running back

North Point (9-0) Great Mills (5-4)

1 0 0

2 7 2

3 0 0

4 19 0

Final 26 2

North Point – Dempsey 5 run (Dempsey kick) Great Mills – Safety, Dempsey called for intentional grounding in end zone North Point – Crowell 33 run (Dempsey kick) North Point – Prince 55 interception return (kick failed) North Point – Poole 3 run (run failed)

chrisstev e n s @ countytimes.net

Photo by Frank Marquart

Great Mills’ Derrick Petett hurdles over a North Point defender Friday night.

Riverdale Baptist 20, St. Mary’s Ryken 7 Riverdale (5-5) Ryken (3-5)

1 0 0

Riverdale – Burns 4 run (Forbes kick) Ryken – Rixey 1 run (Anderson kick) Riverdale – Burns 7 run (Forbes kick) Riverdale – Taylor 84 run (kick failed)

2 7 7

3 7 0

4 6 0

Final 20 7

Ja’wan Poole compiled touchdowns to put the Hornets away. But Griffith still believes his Hornets can finish in style against the other first place team in the Photo by Frank Marquart conference when they host Huntingtown Friday night at 7 p.m. “They’re still going to work hard, we’re going to go to work on Monday The Hornets’ Anthony Smith (25) and prepare for Huntingtown,” Griffith said. “I told the guys ‘We’ve shown we holds on to the Eagles’ Connor can play with anybody in the state. 5-5 is not good enough. We want 6-4.’” Crowell. chrisstevens@countytimes.net

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Football

Chopticon Edges Panthers

By Chris Stevens Staff Writer

Chopticon 7, Patuxent 6

1 2 3 4 Final Senior receiver Chopticon (3-6) 0 0 7 0 7 Michael Gilmartin’s Patuxent (4-5) 0 6 0 0 6 15-yard touchdown reception and sopho- Patuxent – Hagelin run (kick failed) more place-kicker Chopticon – Gilmartin 15 pass from Hayhurst (Palmer kick) Christopher Palmer’s extra point made the Chopticon’s lone touchdown. difference Friday “Tyler managed the game very well for us,” night as the Chopticon high school football team pulled out a 7-6 win over Patuxent, spoiling the Lisanti said. “He made almost no mistakes, he’s a true leader and I’m very proud of his efforts.” Panthers’ senior day. Palmer’s extra point was good and the In a very tough defensive battle, the Braves (3-6 overall, 3-4 in Southern Maryland Athletic Braves held off Patuxent to escape Lusby with Conference play) knocked the Panthers (4-5 their third win of the season and their second on overall, 3-4 SMAC) completely out of the 2A the road.

Photo By John Hunt

Chopticon stepped up on defense and stepped over Patuxent 7-6 Friday night for their third win of the season.

South playoff picture. “To beat a quality team like Patuxent showed that our guys have a lot of character,” said Braves head coach Tony Lisanti. “We were missing four keys guys and the guys that got to play answered the ball.” The Braves defense did a good job of holding Panthers senior running back Frank Taitanoin in check, limiting him to just 90 yards rushing (well below his average of 151 rushing yards per game) and no touchdowns. “We knew he was a great running back and we wanted to fly to the ball,” Lisanti said. “We felt if we had six or seven black helmets in there, we were going to be alright.” Patuxent took a 60 lead in the second quarter on senior fullback Zach Hagelin’s scoring run, but the extra point was missed. Chopticon’s defense held the fort long enough for the offense to give them the win, as sophomore quarterback Tyler Hayhurst (called up from the junior varsity due to Cody Douglas’ shoulder injury) connected with Gilmartin in the third quarter for

Sp rts

The County Times

The Braves will close out the season with a rivalry game against Leonardtown High School Friday night at Raider Stadium. Game time is 7 p.m. Lisanti believes that Chopticon’s rough early schedule has paid dividends now that the season is coming to a close. “I don’t think anybody has a schedule where they’ve played three 9-0 teams,” Lisanti said of early season battles with North Point, PG County Gwynn Park and Huntingtown. “What we’re looking for is improvement, and they’ve given me that each week. We’re a young team, but the guys have certainly grown up over the season.” chrisstevens@countytimes.net

Rams Run Past Leonardtown By Chris Stevens Staff Writer Even while missing starting quarterback Byron Campbell, McDonough High School continued its push towards the 2A South playoffs, shutting out Leonardtown 35-0 at Raider Stadium Friday night. “The first half was fantastic, we did a nice job of stopping them,” head coach Anthony Pratley said of only being down 7-0 at halftime. “In the second half, they made their adjustments and just wore us out. The defense was just on the field way too much.” The Raiders (1-8, 1-6 in SMAC play) only surrendered a 70-yard punt return for a touchdown by Justin Brooks in the first half, but the Rams (6-3 overall, 5-2 SMAC) scored 28 second-half points to break the game open. The Raiders will now turn their attention to the season finale tomorrow night with county rival Chopticon, which also happens to be the Raiders’ Senior Night. Game Time is 7 p.m. For the Raiders to come away with a win to close out a season, Pratley believes minimizing mistakes will be the key to a Raider victory. “It’s going to come down to execution and playing mistake free football,” he says. “Turnovers happen, but we’ll try to keep turnovers to a minimum.”

Photo By Chris Stevens

Head Coach Anthony Pratley

Pratley is also aware that the Braves, coming off of a clutch 7-6 win over Patuxent last week, are a better football team than their 3-6 record shows. “Their record doesn’t indicate their talent,” he says. “Chopticon had a real tough five or six games to start the season and they are a lot better than 3-6.” chrisstevens@countytimes.net

McDonough 35, Leonardtown 0 McDonough (6-3) Leonardtown (1-8)

1 7 0

2 0 0

3 21 0

4 7 0

McDonough – Brooks 70 punt return (Wilkerson kick) McDonough – Leonard 22 run (Wilkerson kick) McDonough – Wilson 50 run (Wilkerson kick) McDonough – Gray 28 interception return (Wilkerson kick) McDonough – O’Kelly 3 run (Wilkerson kick)

Final 35 0

THURSDAY November 5, 2009

SEAHAWKS HAVE THEIR EYES ON THE PRIZE Page 29

Homeless Report Calls For Action Story Page 5

Photo By Frank Marquart

Newtowne Players Stage a “Fantastick” Farce Story Page 24

Leonardtown Wins Playoff Openers Story Page 28