PRSTD STD US Postage Paid Permit No. 145 Waldorf, MD
Thursday, February 8, 2007 • St. Mary’s County, Maryland
Housing Cap On the Way PC Recommends 2.25 Percent Limit on Local Growth
Established 2006 • Volume 2 • Issue 6 • FREE
Five-Month-Old Injured in Multi-Car Crash Sunday
By Adam Ross Staff Writer St. Mary’s County is growing beyond its control, hampering schools with overcrowding and forcing development into the Rural Preservation District (RPD). To restructure the county into town centers, and move growth away from the RPD, a housing cap needs to be established, a topic the Adequate Public Facilities Task Force (APF) studied and presented to county government. Around 3,575 dwelling units are in line today, waiting for approval to be constructed. With that type of influx into the development district, school seats, already a hot commodity, would quickly dwindle because of rules that hold seats for approved developments. In some cases, those developments are not built for more than a decade. Meanwhile, under the current Adequate Public Facilities (APF) ordinances, described as “chaotic” by APF Task Force member Ford L. Dean, all construction in the development district has been shut down because of the overcrowded schools. As this pressure builds, developers alleviate it by moving into the RPD, which compromises the rural character of the county and the gracious intent of the land. The Planning Commission has held two working meetings See Housing Cap page A- in January to
Courtesy of HVFD
The Volkswagen Jetta pictured above was part of a six-car accident that injured a Five-Month-Old baby girl, her mother and several other drivers and passengers. Dana Lynn Lomas, 36, was the operator of this Jetta, which was seriously damaged. Lomas was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital for treatment.
A six-car collision near Lexington Park Sunday afternoon resulted in injuries to a five-month-old baby girl, her mother, 21, two other drivers and a passenger. State police report that Ernest Charles Mincey was driving southbound in a Ford E250 when he struck a 1998 Cadillac Catera operated by Serena Ann Hahn, 21, of Lex-
ington Park, which was stopped at the traffic signal on Three Notch Road and Corporate Drive in front of Lonestar. Hahn then struck the rear of a 2006 Chevrolet Express, driven by Arden Joseph Keck, III, 22, of California, and then went up on the right curb and sidewalk where it came to rest. Mincey then struck a 2003
Volkswagon Jetta, heading southbound, operated by Dana Lynn Lomas, 36, of Lexington Park, which was stopped at the light. This caused Lomas to strike Keck’s vehicle, which had been pushed out into the intersection following the collision from See Pile up page A-
Combined Efforts Underway to Index Recruit Trained Election Workers By Patty Muchow Special to the County Times
Schools Week A-8
Hockey B-1 Op.-Ed ..........Page A - 4 Obits .............Page A - 5 Police ............Page A - 7
For Continual News Updates Visit: somd.com Local Weather Friday Partly Cloudy 36° Saturday Partly Cloudy 36° Sunday Mostly Sunny 40°
A State House Bill has been introduced by Del. John L. Bohanan to allow higher education institutions and staff to be used “to accommodate voting on election days.” The action was taken at the request of members of the Center for the Study of Democracy at St. Mary’s College. “This is exciting,” Zach Messitte, St. Mary’s College Assistant
Professor of Political Science and Co-Director of the Center, said of H.B. 366. “We can make our election system stronger. There have been serious problems with the polls [in recent years].” He went on to say there are 20,000 election judges in Maryland, and “our election judges should be fully trained and knowledgeable.” As part of a $25,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) asked
Jarboe Alone on an Island: Opposes Zylak Hiring By Adam Ross Staff Writer At times, with this Democratic Board of County Commissioners, the Republican from Golden Beach, Lawrence Jarboe, has found himself isolated from his constituents over new hires and appointments. During Tuesday’s commissioners meeting, Jarboe quietly stared into the corner while temporary County Administrator John Savich announced the hiring of former St. Mary’s County Sheriff David Zylak as public safety director. When it came time for a motion, Jarboe, by his lonesome, voted
against the hiring of Zylak, saying later “there was a better and more qualified candidate for the position.” “[My vote] had nothing to do with Zylak or politics,” he added. Zylak was not present for the announcement, but said in a telephone interview “whatever the reservations [Jarboe] may have had, I hope I can put those to rest when I get in and start doing the job.” Ironically, Zylak is replacing Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron, who handily defeated him in November’s election. “I have no problem working with Sheriff Cameron, elections are elections and then life goes on,” Zylak
the Canter to pilot a project that would encourage faculty members at Maryland’s institutions of higher learning “to serve as non-partisan poll workers during the 2006 primary and general elections.” The main purposes of the project were two fold: to promote civic engagement on campus; to lower the average age of, and to increase the total number of election judges in the state. “We found out a lot of people around the state are interested in
said. Roughly thirty applications made the first cut, and were processed and scored by the human resources department, said Commissioner Thomas A. Mattingly Jr., (D- Leonardtown). Of the 30, seven candidates were chosen to interview with an independent panel made up of Cameron, fire and rescue representatives, a representative from public safety in Charles County and human resource staff. The independent panel recommended four candidates to the county commissioners, Mattingly said. All four had an opportunity to further interview with the commissioners, but the names of the other three were not released. “I think the process
this,” Messitte said. “The idea is to encourage not only teachers, but also students who could earn a little more income.” According to the study, the Election Assistance Commission reported there was a “shortage of nearly half a million poll workers nationwide in 2004, with average poll worker approaching [the age of] 72. Election administrators confirmed that Maryland faced similar problems.” See Election Workers page A-
Photo by Bryan Jaffe
Former St. Mary’s County Sheriff David Zylak, pictured above, will replace current Sheriff Timothy Cameron as director of public safety. Cameron vacated the position when he defeated Zylak in November’s elections.
See Jarboe Speaks Out page A-
The County Times
Section A -
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Small Counties Lose Out in $400 Million Education Allocation From State By Adam Ross Staff Writer Throughout his journey to the head of the Maryland’s government, Governor Martin O’Malley pledged to make up for years of inadequate school construction spending. A promise he has and has not kept for St. Mary’s County, according to local political figures. Just as he said he would, O’Malley invested $400 million in school construction, an increase of roughly $97 million over last year, according to the fiscal 2008 budget highlight packet released in January. However, that increase
does not change the state’s funding formula, which allocates the amount of money an individual project receives, and how a project qualifies for state funding. “We have an issue in St. Mary’s County,” said Commissioner Daniel H. Raley (D- Great Mills). “We only have three high schools and to get the figures to generate state funding for a new school, we have to be pretty overcrowded. I think there needs to be a creative way to look at that.” Under the state formula, for the county to receive funding for a new high school, the county’s three high schools must be overcrowded by 50 percent of a new school’s ca-
pacity, with the other half projected to arrive within five years from upcoming developments. “That’s fine for the big seven [counties],” Raley said of the formula. “They’ve got a lot of high schools which they can spread out the student population to get to the state formula. But the small counties don’t have that, and that’s a problem I don’t hear about.” There has been a push for more development in the rural preservation district because construction has been halted in the development district due to school overcrowding. Yet the schools are not overcrowded enough to qualify under the state’s funding formula, and in some cases,
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with development shut down in certain areas, some county schools will stay overcrowded for almost two decades, according to a report from St. Mary’s County Public Schools. The Planning Commission is currently in the process of developing recommendations for a new Adequate Public Facilities ordinance that will help cap and steer growth towards the development district. Delegate John L. Bohanan Jr. (D- 29B), chairman of he Appropriations Subcommittee on Education and Economic Development said he “feels very well” of the decisions Governor O’Malley made with the budget, and that
they will benefit the county. “It’s another year of double digit increases, most of that coming in the form of education,” Bohanan said. “So we’ve done well under Thornton Funding and put a lot of money into our schools.” Bohanan drew attention Feb. 2 towards an eight percent state increase in aid that will help fund initiatives including education, libraries and transportation. But the bulk of the $400 million for school construction is likely to be spread out over the larger counties who have more approved projects, and more resources to push projects forward faster, according to former Commission President Thomas F. McKay.
For fiscal 2007, St. Mary’s County received just $5.5 million, of about $303 million, to renovate Leonardtown Elementary School and Dent Elementary School. The new elementary school slated for Wildewood, and opening in September of 2009, will receive roughly $12.5 million from the state over two years. For fiscal 2007, Prince George’s County utilized nearly $37.5 million in state money for school construction, according to the fiscal 2007 capital budget for Maryland. “There needs to be a way we can look at smaller counties to find a formula that works for smaller counties,” Raley said. “I understand the state doesn’t want to build a school to have it half empty, but there still has to be a way
Housing Cap Continued from page A- discuss the task force’s recommendations, and to devise its own for the Board of County Commissioners. In the latest sit-down, Jan. 31, the Planning Commission settled on a phased 2.25 percent cap, which they feel should fairly distribute approval for dwelling units waiting in the queue. “We have to use some sense of developer fairness,” said Denis Canavan, director of Land Use and Growth Management on the implementation of phasing. “You’re not going to get all of your units you want.” Canavan and the Planning Commission agreed that it’s harder on the queue, and on the developer when an approval for a large number of lots is given, but a majority of those units are held back for financing or common construction delays. “I can realistically say, a developer looking to build 50 to 200 units in a year is not going to be able to do so,” Canavan added. If a problem arises, the queue establishes a priority rating so a developer is not banished from the list, just moved back, Canavan said. Lots of five or more dwelling units, as well as mi-
nor subdivisions, would be included in the que, according to Canavan. However, family conveyances could still seek approval from the commission without waiting in line. Of the 3,750 units currently waiting, 804 would be approved for build out yearly under the 2.25 percent cap. Commission Planning member Shelby P. Guazzo said 2.25 percent was too high, and recommended the commission consider two percent instead. “There is a softening housing market and decreasing household sizes, but we have a lot of housing already,” Guazzo said. “Everybody who moves in here doesn’t want a new house... Also, historically it’s easier to raise the number the next year than to lower it.” The difference between 2.25 and two percent would be 89 houses each year. Member Brandon Hayden and chairman Steve Reeves countered Guazzo with the ideas of “handcuffing the market” too much, and keeping the market “strong by over building a little.” The cap will be revisited annually, and according to Reeves the commission “can always tighten the screws.” The other recommenda-
tion the commission tackled was the suitable housing allocation for growth areas versus non-growth areas. The Planning Commission voted 3-to2 in favor of a 60-40 split. Reeves said he preferred a 70-30 split so that the developers of minor subdivisions do not have more of an opportunity to “piecemeal together” plans for their acreage. “I’m concerned with the land use pattern we are encouraging people to do,” Reeves said. “I’m looking to see how it works for a while. I think the minor subdivisions are going to have less roads and less improvements.” Guazzo also agreed the 70-30 split would be better for the growth of the RPD. The Planning Commission will meet for its third working meeting later this week, and discuss the APF’s recommendations, other Reeves said. “The school board is going to come back and give some information because the last issue had to do with percentages of the APF in regards to the state,” Reeves said. “We base our school APF on percentages from the state funding requirements.”
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The County Times
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Section A -
Chinese Teacher Offers Students One-Of-AKind Opportunity Here By Adam Ross Staff Writer Zhijun Peng, St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) newest language teacher, stepped off the plane inbound from China last month and set foot on American soil for the first time in her life. The next thing she knew, she was shopping at Target and making plans to visit Disney World. “It’s been a little bit of [culture shock],” Peng said, “but I expected it and I think it’s natural.” Peng is part of a Chi-
Advanced Placement Chinese Course in 2006-2007, according to an AP survey administered by SMCPS. Unfortunately, there are only about 250 Chinese language teachers in U.S. secondary schools, making it difficult for St. Mary’s County to offer classes to its students. At the very least, Peng offers an opportunity for students to crack the surface of Chinese language, and figure out if it’s something they would like to build on in college. Peng will likely be shuffled between Leonardtown
ditional year. Through the duration of her visit, Peng will be saddled up with Carpenter. And while Peng’s personal space is limited to a guest bedroom in Carpenter’s home in Port Republic, Md., she is already experiencing the idiosyncrasies of American family life, she said. Since arriving, rest has hardly been an option for Peng, who said she is aggressively planning her lessons and collecting the proper materials, despite not starting her class until the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year.
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Ms. Zhijun Peng (center), a guest teacher from China, chats with Ms. Laura Carpenter, supervisor of instruction for gifted and talented programs, and Dr. Michael J. Martirano, superintendent of schools, about her excitement with joining them to establish a Chinese Language and Culture program in St. Mary’s County Public Schools.
nese Guest Teacher Program sponsored by Haban, China’s Office of Chinese Language Council International, in sponsorship with the College Board. In an effort to keep up with the growing demand for Chinese language skills in today’s world economy, Superintendent Michael J. Martirano brought Peng – a Mandarin-speaking teacher with 10 years of English training at the Kumming University of Science and Technology – to the county to teach a Chinese Language and Culture class to middle and high school students. “Recognizing that Chinese is the most widely spoken first language in the world, we want to give our students every opportunity to compete in the global workforce, said Martirano. “We are making real-world connections for our students.” Nearly 2,400 students expressed interest in taking an
Middle and High Schools, partly because her work with children in Hollywood over the next five months could transition with those students whom attend Leonardtown Middle School in the fall, according to Laura Carpenter, a supervisor of instruction for gifted and talented programs. “There is a clear direction the students can go to advance,” said Carpenter. “In order for that to happen we have to have that clear feeder pattern in place.” However, if Peng decides to leave after her 18 months, SMCPS could request a new teacher be sent for a year. “I think the students will benefit a lot although the class isn’t very long,” Peng said. “In one year, I can teach them to order, ask for directions and to lead a simple life in China.” Peng is inked to the county for 18 months, but if she and SMCPS are happy, they can extend her stay for an ad-
Election Workers Continued from page A- “Let’s see if we can get people in higher education institutions to do this as well as younger people with computer knowledge,” Messitte said. According to the study, Maryland, like other states, must recruit competent, welltrained judges to ensure the integrity of future elections. The study concluded that should Maryland desire faculty, administration, staff, and students to serve as election judges, the legislature and governor “must take action.” Better training of election judges “needs to be a priority” for Maryland.
“Furthermore,” the study continues, “given the long hours, low pay and lack of recognition, it is too much to ask faculty to serve unless there are real incentives offered by the states via the institutions of higher learning. The bill reads: FOR the purpose of requiring that each public institution of higher education in the State be closed for normal academic activities on general election day; requiring certain institutions of higher education to be open to accommo-
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In the meantime, Peng will work at Hollywood Elementary School and “supplement the social studies program,” Carpenter said. “We are tying in the fact that communities are the same no matter where you go in the world,” Carpenter said. “Students get an understanding we may speak another language and live a world apart, but we have the same needs and we can get along.” Long term, Carpenter sees Peng as an opportunity for the county to better gauge the needs SMCPS would have in establishing an advanced and extended Chinese language program. “There has already been quite a bit of interest from the community,” Carpenter said of the future prospect from the program. “We are very optimistic we can continue this project long-term.”
date voting on certain election days; requiring the governing body of each public institution of higher education to consider certain matters and policies to assist in the administration of elections; requiring a local board of elections to establish a polling place at each public or private institution of higher education in its county; providing that a local board may appoint an election judge to serve for all or part of a day at a polling place on the day of an election; requiring a local board to apportion the compensation of certain election judges in a certain manner; and generally relating to election administration and the recruitment and retention of election judges.
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The County Times
Section A -
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Editorial & Opinion The New Face of St. Mary’s Police So far, so good with the newly started community policing program in Golden Beach. Since the program started in January, the feedback has been decidedly positive, and the relationship between the community and the police has strengthened. In fact, the Sheriff has been so encouraged by the success of the pioneer program, he has publicly expressed his
desire to expand it. This is a long overdue move, and the community is better for it. The best police force is not the one that makes the most arrests, but the one that prevents the most crimes from happening in the first place. It is easy to look at statistics and think, “Gosh, the Police Arrested 22 drug dealers last month and seized more than $10,000 worth of drugs.
the first of many steps in that direction. The reason community policing works so well is that it tears down the wall that often arises between the community and the police. As the community officer spends time in his assigned area, he comes to know the people of the neighborhood. He is not just a nameless face in a blue shirt, and over time he becomes a fixture in the community.
As the relationship builds, the people are more forthcoming with information about problems they may have, and often that information can be used to prevent a situation from escalating, helping to secure the peace. Too often, police work is seen as reactive. Someone breaks the law; the police react to the situation. Community policing takes that idea and turns it on its head, changing
the perception of the police in general and forging a stronger relationship. While the Sheriff talks about expanding the program in Golden Beach one neighborhood at a time, it is not hard to see this becoming the norm for all of St. Mary’s County in the near future. When that happens, we should all be able to sleep a little bit easier.
cian who ran on the platform of making county government accountable and available to the people it represents, seems to be settling right into the secrecy most boards covet for reasons beyond my understanding. I was very unimpressed with Russell a few weeks ago when I asked him about the motivation for Mr. Forrest’s retirement, and all he could do was repeat a prepared statement that had no relevance to my question. Meanwhile, Commissionthe commissioners voted him er Lawrence Jarboe (R- Goldout in executive session, for en Beach) has taken undenireasons unknown by almost everyone at the governmental able heat for making it known center. But with Forrest fail- to the public that Mr. Forrest’s ing to show up for his last day retirement may not have been of work, a Tuesday meeting of completely voluntary. At the the Board of Commissioners, end of the day, we won’t know Jan. 30, I can only imagine he if Mr. Forrest retired to save was leaving on shaky ground. face, or if it was really time Commission President for him to sip mai tais on the Francis Jack Russell, a politi- beach; he has yet to speak on the issue himself.
But what we can do is examine the public record, which will help shed light on the grounds of his retirement and possibly the logic used by the Board of County Commissioners as they cast their votes away from prying eyes. The only problem is the public records of Mr. Forrest’s employment with the county have not been released to the public yet, according to Jennifer Green, who works in the county’s public information office. It took five messages and an e-mail to finally catch up with Green, who told me the records on Forrest’s employment were currently being prepared by the county attorney. I’m new to all of this, but I’m not sure why those records need to be “prepared” by anyone. After leaving a message with Christy Chesser, the attorney processing the records according to Green, I still have
been unable to get my hands on them. I can only hope that when the public records are finally released, the truth comes out and the people of St. Mary’s County have an opportunity to understand why a man who has received nothing but high praise from his bosses and colleagues left the county amid controversy with possibly $80,000 in pocket. The people deserve the truth. The people deserve an explanation. The people deserve to know why each time a new board is elected, secret decisions are made with little to no justification, and tax dollars are spent to send the administrators packing. I may have already reported the truth behind Mr. Forrest sudden retirement, but rest assured I will find the reasons behind it too. One step at a time.
Those guys are really on the ball!” But would it not be better if the drugs never made it into the county in the first place? For other crimes, take rape and murder, what comfort is it to the victim if the perpetrator is caught? The damage is done, and nothing can undo it. Clearly, crime prevention is the way to go, and the program in Golden Beach is but
Big City Boy, Small Town Heart
One Step At A Time? By Adam Ross Staff Writer George Forrest is sitting at home probably wondering how the end of his career came so quickly. Forrest has had an extremely long and impressive journey through his years of service, and not just to St.
Mary’s County, but also to his country. Such an impressive resume hardly earned him the respect he deserved from certain county commissioners when he was reportedly dismissed from his position of county administrator late last month. I can only imagine the end was as bitter as the moment
Letters to the Editor Hold the Propaganda Please! To the Editor: Please, please, please take me off your mailing list. I believe that competition in the marketplace is always good, so I was delighted to hear that the Enterprise would have some competition from the McKay owned newspaper, the County Times. However, after reading several issues, it appears to be about sour grapes for Tommy McKay. He fails to remember
he lost the election by a landslide for good reason. The County Times continues to quote McKay, and I agree he does have the insider information in the politics of the county, but the quotes continue to remind us how he turned the county around, what good shape the county was in when he left office and how the new politicians are making mistakes. The specific article I reference is “Commissioners
Squander more than just money on Lacer” in the Thursday, Jan. 25 paper. This article has a picture of McKay, and I assume he wrote the article since there is no byline. Under McKay’s watch as County Commissioner President, Lacer’s contract was terminated early. I am no fan of Lacer, but his contract stipulations allowed him to seek employment elsewhere. The County Times says “The County Administrator did not have the
New Group Forming in Southern Md. for Golden Retriever Lovers To the Editor Golden Retrievers are a special breed and so are the people who love them. There are times when goldens are in need of a new home due to a death or illness in the family, owners who work long hours and do not have time for their companion and sometimes, due to mischievous behavior. A formation meeting for
a new rescue group to help golden retrievers in need in Southern Maryland is being held Feb. 24 at 10 a.m. in the Lexington Park Library. A charter, tax-exempt status, and the beginnings of a web site are in place. Talented people who can raise funds, manage a web site, design brochures and provide loving temporary homes are needed.
If you currently love a golden retriever, or have ever loved one, please join us on Saturday. For more information call Pat or Joe Johnson at 301-994-0132. Joe and Pat Johnson Valley Lee
right to simply sit at home and automatically collect pay for doing nothing.” I believe this is a free country, and after Lacer was terminated, he had every right to sit at home, do nothing, and collect his pay. The current Commissioners settled the suit as they wanted to put an end to this mess that was created under McKay’s watch. The editorial continues to say the county gave away almost half a million dollars, and how in 2002, when McKay took office, the county was broke and when
he left in 2006, the county had $40 million in reserves. So what else was squandered besides the lawsuit settlement? The other comment on the paper I have is that it reminds me of St. Mary’s Today in the way it publishes all the arrests, especially in regards to domestic disputes, musical and grocery thefts. So please, please, please take me off your mailing list.
Publishers Note:
The publisher apologizes because we feel the article should have been placed in the letter to the editor column. However, I support the position that all newly elected Boards of County Commissioners should have the authority to appoint their department heads, especially their administrative officer, in the early part of their term.
Wendy Calvin Mechanicsville
Letters to the Editor If you wish to send a letter to the editor, please include your name, address and phone number for confirmation purposes. We will only publish your name and city of residence. We can withhold your name by request if circumstances merit it. We must receive all letters by Monday morning for publication in the next issue. Any letter received later than Monday will be held for the following issue.
James Manning McKay - Publisher Bryan Jaffe - Managing Editor Tobie Pulliam - Office Manager............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.net Adam Ross - Government Correspondent...............adamross@countytimes.net
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Thursday, February 8, 2007
The County Times
Section A -
Obituaries Frank Samuel Dove, Sr., 72 Frank Samuel D o v e , Sr., 72, of Camp Springs, Md. died Feb. 1 in Souther n Maryland Hospital Center, Clinton, Md. Born July 15, 1934 in Scotland, Md., he was the son of the late Joseph Thomas “Fred” Dove and Mary Ellen Cutchember Dove. He was the youngest of 15 children. Frank attended both Scotland School and Jarboesville School; however, because he had to financially help support his family, he left school to work full time. His first job was at Peter Campbell’s Tomato Factory in Cornfield Harbor in Scotland, Md. He later grew his own tomato garden for a living. He also worked as a bus boy at the Statler Hotel in Washington, DC. Frank returned home and worked in the construction industry until he signed up for the U.S. Army in 1953. He was honorably discharged in 1960 after serving in Korea. To earn a living for his family, while awaiting full-time employment, Frank detailed cars and shucked oysters at the oyster factory. Frank became employed by the Federal Government in the Department of Transportation at the Patuxent River Test Center. He worked for 30 years in various capacities, including chauffer, heavy-duty equipment operator and truck driver. In 1990, he began working for Waste Management of Southern Maryland. On Sept. 24, 1999, Frank received a nineyear Service Award upon his departure. Frank married Ann Loretta Dove in 1955. From their union, Francine, Frank, Jr., Waverly, Deon, and Monique were born. The “apple of Frank’s eye” was his family. He always put
his children first during their childhood as well as during their adulthood. In fact, at the time of his death, Frank was working for his son, Frank, Jr., as the service manager of Frank, Jr.’s All Tune and Lube, in Marlow Heights. He was also working for Francine and Steve as the Facilities Manager at the Global Village Learning Center. He had worked for them as the manager of the Mixx Lounge and Grill. When Monique had her store, Uptown Sportswear, he managed it as well. Frank was living with Monique at the time of his death. Frank was also the earthly anchor for his siblings. He was the one to whom everyone looked for emotional, financial, and advisory support. Frank got along with everyone in his community. He was known for helping others, whether it was giving away canned goods or the fish that he had caught, getting jobs for people via his connections, taking people to appointments, helping navigate bureaucracies, or just simply listening to folk. Frank’s favorite pastime activities were fishing, watching baseball and cheering on the Washington Redskins. In his youthful days, Frank managed various community baseball teams including the Hilcrest Hustlers and the Scotland teams. Frank leaves to mourn his children, Francine Hawkins and her husband, Steve of Lexington Park, Md., Frank Dove and his wife, Paula of Hughesville, Md., Mary Monique Dove of Camp Springs, Md., his granddaughter, Stevie-Mari Hawkins of Lexington Park, Md., sister, Catherine Dove, brother, Paul Dove and his wife, Edna, all of Scotland, Md., his sister-inlaw, Lottie Dove of Park Hall, Md., one more grandchild, two great- grandchildren, exwife, Loretta Dove, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two
Jarboe Speaks Out Continued from page A- was fair, and not a political process,” Mattingly added. “Zylak did very well in his interviews in all levels, and that was the reason for the choice.” On the other hand, Jarboe felt one candidate in particular had more relevant experience, specifically with “hands on communication.” “Some might say you make your decisions on the list of qualifications, but you have to use your judgment,” Jarboe added. “In my opinion there was a better qualified candidate.” Commissioner Daniel H. Raley (D- Great Mills) called the decision “fair” and asked Zylak to reach out to Sheriff Cameron to “have a dialog to enter into a relationship.”
“We commend everyone who took part in the process, this is a process, one person came to the forefront,” said Commission President Francis Jack Russell. Tuesday’s vote marked the third time in the last few weeks Jarboe has fostered an opinion different from the majority. After the announcement that former County Administrator George G. Forrest was leaving his post four months early for retirement, Jarboe revealed that the board had voted to remove Forrest, and he was the lone opposition. Mattingly and Russell repeatedly denied any such vote was made, and that Forrest entered into retirement with no pressure from the board.
Pile Up
Keck subsequently struck a 2006 Toyota Tacoma in the intersection operated by Frederic Mohamad Felcan, 29, of Lexington Park. Mincey was transported to Medstar for treatment. Alexis Ann Hahn, fivemonths-old, and a passenger in her mother’s car, was transported to DC Children’s Hospital for treatment. Hahn was transported to the Baltimore
Continued from page A- Hahn’s vehicle. Mincey continued on to strike a 2004 Chevrolet Venture, operated by Michael Lawrence Highly, 43, of Leonardtown, before his Ford came to rest on its roof in the intersection.
children, Waverly and Deon Dove, sisters, Laura Dove, Maryanne White, Ella Courtney, Adelaide Jones, Maggie Purnell, Rosie Hickman, and Agnes Bryan, and brothers, Joseph, Ellis, Johnny, Charles, and Jesse Dove. The family will receive friends Saturday from 8:3010:30 a.m. in St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, St. Inigoes, Md., with the Funeral Service conducted at 10: 30 a.m. Reverend Leroy Boldley will officiate. Interment will follow in St. Luke’s Methodist Church Cemetery, Scotland, Md. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., in Leonardtown, Md. Condolences to the family may be made at www. brinsfieldfuneral.com.
Edith Virginia Gibson, 90 Edith Virginia Gibson, 90, of Leonardtown, Md., died Feb. 5 in St. Mary’s Nursing Center. The family will receive friends tomorrow, Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral home, where a funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m. in the Funeral Home Chapel with Fr. Peter Alliata officiating. Interment will follow in Charles Memorial Gardens. A full obituary will appear at a later date. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.
Charles Louis Holt, Sr., 69 Charles Louis Holt, Sr., 69, of Mecha n icsville, Md., died Jan. 30 in St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonardtown, Md. Born May 12, 1937 in Morganza, Md., he was the son of the late James Foley Holt and Helen Marie Rustin Holt. Charles was a life long
However, Jan. 22, the same day the announcement and comments from Russell and Mattingly were made, the Board of County Commissioners entered into a separation agreement with Forrest to the tune of $58,106, after taxes. Part of the agreement reads: “Mr. Forrest desires to retire from employment with the county, and he and the Board wish to end their association amicably and resolve any and all claims, differences or matters pertaining to, arise from, or associated with Mr. Forrest’s association and discontinuance with the board.” However, according to Forrest’s contract, signed Jan. 10, 2006, the “resignation by employee” would only compensate wages through the “effective date of resignation,” which by contract terms should be no sooner than 60
Shock Trauma Center. Keck, his passenger Zachary Leigh Griffith, 21, Lexington Park and Lomas were transported to St. Mary’s Hospital. Police report that alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor on the part of Mincey, and charges are pending.
Holt, Sr. The family received friends Monday from 9- 10 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Morganza, Md., with a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10 a.m. Father Keith Woods was the celebrant. Interment followed in Queen of Peace Cemetery in Helen, Md. Serving as pallbearers were Wayne Gray, John Gray, Jr., Calvin Dorsey, and Richard Hebb. Memorial contributions may be made to HOSPICE House c/o HOSPICE of St. Mary’s Co., Inc., P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A. in Leonardtown, MD.
resident of St. Mary’s County. He attended St. Joseph’s Parochial School in Morganza, Md. He worked as a construction worker with his brother, Robert, for a few years. In 1967, he started working for the St. Mary’s County Board of Education. He retired in 1999 as Chief Custodian after 32 years of service. Although he enjoyed his retirement at home, being around his family and friends, he often talked about going back to work. He had a strong passion for gardening and looked forward to his brother, Harry, to come up and plow the field when spring came. He also looked forward to playing a game of horseshoes. Charles was united in marriage to Margaret Ann Hebb Jan. 18, 1969 in Morganza, Md. They had seven children, whom he cherished and loved. Charles leaves to cherish his memories, his wife of 38 years, Margaret Ann Holt, six children; James N. Holt and Alicia A. Holt, both of Lexington Park, Md., Rhonda M. Holt, Patricia A. Holt, and William A. Holt, all of Oakville, Md., and James L. Holt of Mechanicsville, Md., four brothers; Joseph N. Holt of Washington, DC, Robert Holt, Harry Holt, and George F. Holt, all of Oakville, Md., sister, Georgianna Gray of Oakville, Md., two daughtersin-law; Tonia and Lashawn, five sisters-in-law, Catherine Holt, Laverne Holt, Sarah Holt, Blanche Holt, and Gladys Hynson, six brothers-in-law, John Gray, Walter Mason, Sr., Walter Hynson, Peter Hebb, John Hebb, and Richard Hebb, ten grandchildren; Traimont, Tyrael, Keshia, Ikea, Tyeshia, Antonio, Daquian, James L., Jr., Ja’Marcus, and Jaelyn, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Charles Louis Holt, Jr., sister, Marie Mason, and three brothers, James Lawrence Holt, Francis Aloysius Holt, and William Dominic
Larry Antolin “Lil Larry” Joy, 21, of Leonardtown, Md. formerly of Hollywood, Md., died Feb. 4 in Baltimore Shock Trauma Center. Born November 21, 1985 in Leonardtown, Md. He was the son of Larry Paul and Flora Thomas Laungayan Joy of Leonardtown, Md. He is survived by his fiancé: Amanda Carroll; daughter: Cadence Jeanette Joy; siblings: Brandy Loy of Ridge, Md., Allan Michael Joy and Amber Joy both of Leonardtown, Md.; grandmother: Clara Rosetta Joy; grandparents: Noel & Blanche Laungayan of Callaway, Md. and a very large extended family who loved him dearly. Mr. Joy was a life long St. Mary’s County resident where he attended Leonardtown High School. He was a self-employed flooring specialist for five years. He enjoyed fast cars, paintballing, skateboarding and raising his pit bulls. The family will receive friends today, Feb. 8, from
calendar days. “This payment shall constitute full and final settlement of the employee’s claims for compensation, benefits, or other demands against the employer.” If the county had stuck to the contract it had with Forrest, and only compensated him for sixty days, it may have saved itself nearly $64,000 before taxes. Mattingly said the board
agreed to pay Forrest the remainder of his contract “based on his service to the county.” “We thought it was a fair decision to make based on his service,” he added. “He had some remaining time, but he had provided good service.” And although the taxpayers are ultimately the ones paying for the separation between Forrest and county, Mattingly felt it was “strictly a personnel matter,” and that the separa-
Larry Antolin “Lil Larry” Joy, 21
5 – 8 p.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, where Prayers will be said at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated tomorrow, Feb. 9, at 10:30 a.m. in St. John’s Catholic Church, Hollywood, Md. with Fr. Raymond Schmidt officiating. Interment will follow in Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, Md. Pallbearers will be: Larry Holsinger, George Wathen, Josh Carroll, Michael Pratt, Ryan Gaskins and Josh Lane. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Noel Laungayan, Allan Michael Joy, Chris Austin and Richie Loy. Contributions may be made to the Cadence Jeanette Joy Trust Fund c/o Cedar Point Federal Credit Union, 25910 Point Lookout Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650 and/or The Joy Family. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A.
Mary Katherine Rorabacher, 34 Mary Katherine Rorabacher, 34, of California, Md. died Feb. 1 in her residence. Born Feb. 7, 1972 in Leonardtown, Md., she was the daughter of Mary Virginia Kalb Rorabacher and the late Clarence Richard Rorabacher. The family received friends Feb. 5 from 5- 8 p.m. in the Brinsfield Funeral Home Chapel, Leonardtown, Md., with the Funeral Service conducted at 7 p.m. Father Keith Woods officiated. Interment is private. Memorial contributions may be made to HOSPICE House c/o HOSPICE of St. Mary’s, Inc., P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Condolences to the family may be made at www. brinsfieldfuneral.com.
tion should have been crafted behind closed doors and off the public record. On Jan. 24, Jarboe again found himself at odds with the board, when he and Commissioner Kenny Dement (RCallaway) opposed the appointment of several citizens to various boards and committees serving St. Mary’s government.
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The County Times
Section A -
Thursday, February 8, 2007
In Your Community Little League St. Mary’s American Little League Baseball and Softball Registration for the 2007 spring season is now available on-line at www.eteamz.com/small. In-person registration will occur every Wednesday
from 6 -8 PM and Saturday 10 AM - 1 PM at Chancellor’s Run Regional Park Teen center from January 31 through February 17.
Stability Ball Exercise
Stability Ball Exercise is offered at the Garvey Senior Center in Leonardtown on Thursdays from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. People of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from the use of a stability ball. This class is designed to help seniors
improve in the areas of strength, flexibility, and balance. Try your first class for free. Purchase a fitness card for $30 and attend 10 classes. For more information, call Brandy at 301-475-4200 ext. 1062.
HVFD
HVFD Dinner
WE NEED MEMBERS!! The regular monthly meeting of the Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary will be held Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. in the Rescue Squad building on Route 235. Anyone wishing to become a member of the Auxiliary is encouraged to attend. For more information, call 301-904-2095.
The Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary is sponsoring a Roast Beef Dinner Feb. 24 from 5 – 7:30 p.m. in the Rescue Squad building on Route 235. The menu will be: Roast Beef, Potatoes, Carrots, Green Beans, Beets, biscuits, coffee and tea. The cost for eat in or carryout will be $11 for adults; $5 for children 5 12; free for children under 5 years of age.
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Dinner Theater Dinner Theater at Our Lady Star of the Sea in Solomons, Maryland The Alumni Players community theater group will perform “Who Poisoned His Meatball” Feb. 9, 10, 16, and 17. This year’s production is a Murder Mystery/ Comedy, written by Craig Sodaro and produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Service, Inc., Englewood, Colorado. Tickets are $30 per person which includes the show and a full buffet dinner provided by Thompsons Catering of Mechanicsville. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Dinner and show start at 7 p.m.. Reservations are highly recommended. Call 410326-3008 for information and tickets.
HVFD Breakfast The Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary is sponsoring an All-YouCan-Eat Breakfast Feb. 11, from 7:30 – 10:30 a.m. at the Rescue Squad building on Route 235. The menu will be: Sausage Gravy and Biscuits, Sausage Links, Bacon, Scrambled Eggs, Fried Potatoes, Pancakes, Fruit Cocktail, Escalloped Apples, assorted juices, coffee, tea and hot chocolate. The cost will be adults: $8; children ages 6 to 12 years, $4 and children 5 and under, free.
Starting at $16.99 dz.
Income Tax Preparation Services St. Mary’s County residents age 60 and over may have simple income tax returns prepared free of charge. Appointments will be available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Garvey Center beginning Feb. 13 from 1 - 4 p.m. Individuals who have business, farm, or rental income to report are not eligible for this service. For an appointment call 301-4754200, ext. 1064.
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Back by popular demand! A Bible study group will meet at the Loffler Senior Center in Great Mills Wednesdays at 11 a.m. The group is looking for new participants and all are welcome! For more information call 301-7375670 ext. 1655.
The County Times
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Police Briefs Crooks Abell to Get Away Abell’s Tavern, in Callaway was robbed at gunpoint Feb. 4 at approximately 8 p.m., according to police reports. Two white males entered the establishment and were confronted by an employee while attempting to remove the cash register. One suspect threatened the employee with a handgun,
and the suspects fled with the register containing an undisclosed amount of money. The St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigations is conducting the investigation on this robbery.
Unruly Student Injures Deputy During Struggle Senior Deputy First Class Dung Ross was injured during a struggle with a Leonardtown High School student Feb. 2 at 2 p.m. Ross reportedly observed a 16-year-old student from Callaway acting in an aggressive and disorderly manner inside the school He was ordered to stop, but continued to cause a disturbance. Ross placed the youth under arrest and the suspect began to physically resist. During the struggle both Ross and the suspect fell into a
chair, causing injury to Ross’ hand. The suspect was eventually handcuffed by Ross and charged with disturbing school activities and resisting arrest. The juvenile was later released to a family member pending a court hearing in the matter. Ross was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital where he was treated and released. The juvenile suspect was not injured.
Happyland Not Happy for Stabbing Victims St. Mary’s Sheriff’s Deputies and Maryland State Troopers responded to the Happyland Bar in Valley Lee for a large fight. Upon arriving, they came in contact with Thomas Adams, 22, from Charles County, and found that he had three stab wounds to his back and one to his wrist. They also came into contact with Antione Hawkins, 25, from Charles
County, who had one stab wound to his thigh. Adams was taken to P.G. Shock Trauma and Hawkins was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital for treatment. The St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigations is carrying on this investigation.
Investigation Leads to Big Bust Local Law enforcement agencies seized a cache of drugs and money during a Jan. 31 operation that resulted from a month-long investigation. Members of the St. Mary’s Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services Team, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit and members of the St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigations Unit executed a search and seizure warrant at 46351, Unit 204, Columbus Dr. in Lexington Park at approximately 8 p.m.
The search turned up 4.7 grams of Crack Cocaine, 3.9 grams of Marijuana and $470 in U.S. currency. James Leroy Hall, 31, of Lexington Park, was arrested at the scene and charged with Possession of Cocaine. He is incarcerated in the St. Mary’s County Detention Center pending a review with the District Court Commissioner. Additional charges are pending after a review of the State’s Attorney’s Office.
WaWa Robbed at Gunpoint WaWa, on Great Mills Rd. in Great Mills, was reportedly subject to an armed robbery Feb. 4 at 3:20 a.m. A black male entered the store wearing a grey hooded jacket and white bandana. He displayed a handgun to the clerk and demanded
money. The clerk complied and the suspect fled with an undisclosed amount of money. The St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigations is handing the investigation of this robbery.
Disorderly Conduct Arrest Follows Struggle Deputy Harold Young observed a domestic dispute along the side of Three Notch Road in Lexington Park. He stopped and Drew MacDonald Thompson, 19, of Great Mills, reportedly attempted to flee in his vehicle. Macdonald turned his disorderly actions from the fe-
male, to Young. He was ordered out of the vehicle and refused. A brief struggle ensued at which time Young deployed his Pepper Spray and the suspect immediately complied. Thompson was arrested for Disorderly Conduct.
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Football Argument Leads to Injury Christopher Brian Beach, 40, of Scotland, is the manager of a Lexington Park business, and responded to the bathroom area of the establishment to confront a patron he believed was acting unruly. The victim advised he was in the restroom and it may have appeared that he was arguing with his friend as they discussed opinions related to football. The suspect entered the area and struck the victim in the face and pushed him to the ground. The victim suffered injuries to his face, knee and hand. He was treated by the Lexington Park Rescue Squad on the scene. Beach was arrested by Deputy Harold Young for Assault Second Degree. Assault Second Degree Thomas Alexander Milburn, 40, of Bushwood, was charged on a Criminal Summons for Assault Second Degree by Deputy James Fontana. Criminal Arrested for Illegally Powering Up Steven Wayne Carter, 48, of Lexington Park, was charged on a Criminal Summons by Deputy Douglas Harris for Tampering with an Electric Meter, Property Destruction and Theft under $500. Carter reportedly connected his electric after his service was discontinued by SMECO. Closet Offers no Respite for Fleeing Criminal Craig Andrew Kenndy, 42, of California, was sentenced to serve time in the St. Mary’s County Detention Center as a result of his case being adjudicated in the District Court. The original charge was Property Destruction and Theft under $100. Kenndy was ordered to surrender to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center to serve his time, and he failed to do so. Deputies responded to a California residence and observed him inside. The suspect fled upstairs and was located hiding in a bedroom closet. After a struggle, he was placed un-
Section A - der arrest by Deputy William Rishel and taken to the Detention Center. Double Domestic Dispute Leads to Arrests Sheriff’s Deputy Eva Snyder responded to a local shopping center for a reported domestic dispute between husband and wife. Christine Victoria Parish-Knott, 21, of California, and Christopher Lee Knott, 19, of California, were reportedly involved in a verbal dispute, which allegedly turned physical with each party assaulting and biting the other. Both were arrested for Assault Second Degree. Christopher Knott also had an open warrant for Bad Check. Theft Patricia Louise Tippett, 28, of no fixed address, was arrested by Deputy Michael George for shoplifting at a Lexington Park Department Store. Once confronted by Deputy George, Suspect Tippett reportedly became disorderly and shouted profanities. She was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Theft under $100. School Brawler Arrested Cameron Carter-Frost, 18, of Lexington Park, was charged on a Criminal Summons with Assault Second Degree for his alleged involvement in the Jan. 18 fight at Great Mills High School. The victim was struck in the face with a closed fist and then fell to the ground. At that time the victim stated he was kicked several times. Deputy Dale Reppel was the arresting Deputy. Homeless Woman Arrested for Stealing Meal Cheryl Ann Adam, 40, of no fixed address, was arrested for Theft under $100. Adam reportedly stole $4 worth of food from a Lexington Park grocery store. She was arrested by Deputy Mark A. Porter and found to have more than $7 in her possession. Protective Order Violation Edward Eugene Guffey, 23, of Lexington Park, was arrested on an open warrant by
Deputy Ronald Maloy for Violation of a Protective Order. Multiple Charges Charles Edwin Compton Jr., 20, of Leonardtown, was arrested on an open warrant by Deputy James Fontana. Compton was arrested through a Grand Jury Indictment for Resisting Arrest, Assault Second Degree and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. High Tech Peeping Tom Nabbed David Leigh Shadle, 52, of Mechanicsville, was charged through a Criminal Information filed by the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office for placing a camera on private property for the purpose of deliberate surreptitious observation and possession of obscene material. Cocaine Dealer Arrested Sherod Anders McLaughlin, 25, of Lexington Park, was arrested on an open warrant by Deputy Michael George for Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute. The warrant was obtained by the Grand Jury of St. Mary’s County. The investigation was conducted by the St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigations Narcotics Division. Failure to Pay Child Support Horace Melvin Robinson, 50, of Lexington Park, was arrested by Deputy John Logalbo for Failure to Pay Child Support. Marijuana Possession Donimique Terrill Barnes, 19, of Ridge, was arrested on an open warrant for Possession of Marijuana. The Bureau of Criminal Investigations Narcotics Division conducted the investigation and Deputy Todd Fleenor made the arrest. Assault Second Degree Joseph Earl Dodge, 36, of Hollywood, was arrested by Deputy David Goff for Second Degree Assault.
The County Times
Section A -
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Origins and Symbols of the Day of Love Ever wonder how Valentine’s Day originated and how certain symbols became synonymous with this day of love and romance? According to scholars, the origins of Valentine’s Day are shrouded in mystery, but there are a few theories that help explain how this celebration came to be. VALENTINE’S DAY ORIGINS
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One theory surrounds the Roman Feast of Lupercalia, held on February 15, and an ancient pagan fertility celebration which was held on February 14. The celebration honored Juno, queen of the Roman gods and the goddess of women and marriage. During Roman times, the lives of young boys and girls were strictly separate. However, one of their customs was name drawing. On the eve of the festival of Lupercalia, the names of Roman girls were written on slips of paper and placed into jars. Each young man would draw a girl’s name from the jar and would then be partners with the girl he chose for the duration of the festival. Sometimes, the pairing of the children lasted an entire year, and often they would fall in love and later marry. Another theory is that during the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of mating season for birds, which supported the idea of having a day for romance in mid-February. ST. VALENTINE CONTROVERSY
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According to Howstuffworks.com, an online informational resource, there’s also some controversy regarding St. Valentine, for whom the famous day is named. Archaeologists who unearthed a Roman catacomb and an ancient church dedicated to St. Valentine are not sure if there was one Valentine or more. Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred on February 14 - at least two of those in Italy during the 3rd century. The most popular candidate for St. Valentine was a 3rd- century Roman priest who practiced Christianity and performed secret marriages against direct orders from Emperor Claudius II, who outlawed marriage for young men because he believed single soldiers were more likely to join his army than those with wives and children. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. According to legend, Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting. Before his execution on February 14 in 270 A.D., it is alleged that he wrote a young girl (who visited him during his confinement and who may have been his jailer’s daughter) a letter, which he signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still used on cards today.
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Early Christians were happier with the idea of a holiday honoring the saint of romantic causes than with one recognizing a pagan festival. In 496 A.D., Pope Gelasius named February 14 in honor of St. Valentine as the patron saint of lovers. In 1969, Pope Paul VI dropped it from the calendar. However, the blend of Roman festival and Christian martyrdom had caught on, and Valentine’s Day was here to stay. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is unclear, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic and, most important, romantic figure.
meaning of love and romance. Here is a listing of some of those symbols and a brief synopsis of how each one originated: 1. Heart: In ancient times, the heart was thought to be the source of all emotions. It later came to be associated most directly with the emotion of love. It’s not clear when the heart shape became the symbol for the heart organ. Some scholars speculate that the heart symbol, as we use it to signify romance or love, came from people’s early attempts to draw an organ they’d never seen. 2. Red roses: These flowers were said to be the favorite of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. Also, red is a color that signifies strong feelings. 3. Lace: This material has long been used to make women’s handkerchiefs. Hundreds of years ago, if a woman dropped her handkerchief, a man might pick it up for her. Sometimes, if she had her eye on the right man, a woman might intentionally drop her handkerchief to encourage him. As such, people began to think of romance when they thought of lace. 4. Love knots: These symbols of everlasting love have a series of winding and interlacing loops with no beginning and no end. They were made from ribbon or drawn on paper. 5. Lovebirds: Found in Africa, these colorful birds are so named because they sit closely together in pairs - like sweethearts do. Doves are symbols of loyalty and love because they mate for life and share in the care of their babies. 6. “X”: This sign represents a kiss, and the tradition started with the medieval practice of allowing those who could not write to sign documents with an “X.” This was done before witnesses, and the signer placed a kiss upon the “X” to show sincerity, which is how the kiss came to be synonymous with the letter “X,” and how the “X” came to be commonly used at the end of letters as kiss symbols. Some believed “X” was chosen as a variation on the cross symbol, while others thought it might have been a pledge in the name of Christ, since the “X” - or chi symbol - is the twenty-second letter of the Greek alphabet and has been used in church history to represent Christ. 7. Cupid: The mischievous son of Venus, the Roman goddess of love, Cupid is supposedly responsible for people falling in love. According to myths, anyone being hit by Cupid’s arrow falls in love with the first person he or she sees. In Greek mythology, Cupid has Eros, the son of Aphrodite, as his counterpart. The names of both of these gods are used synonymously with the concept of love today.
VALENTINE’S DAY SYMBOLS Along with Valentine’s Day are certain symbols that reflect the
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