Gazette
Southern Calvert
December, 2010
Priceless
Everything Solomons, Lusby, Dowell, and St. Leonard
The Faces of Homelessness ‘Safe Nights’ Provides Warm Beds For Locals in Need
Gang Activity a Real Issue in Southern Maryland Story Page 4
Photo by Sean Rice
PAGE 12
Scouts, NJROTC, Marines Securing Toys for Tots Story Page 15
On T he Cover
Lisa Fowler and her daughter Emily, 3, are grateful for the opportunity to receive a warm bed for the evening from Safe Nights.
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Also Inside
Local News
7 Community 10 Sports 12
Cover Story
local news
Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church will be hosting Solomons 9th annual TUBACHRISTMAS concert at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 19. SEE PAGE 7
14 Letters 15 Locals 16 Obituaries 19 Education 20
On Water
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Out & About
Annmarie Gardens will be all lit up through the holiday season during its annual Garden of Lights, which runs nightly from 6 until 9 p.m., from Dec. 4 to Jan. 2. SEE PAGE 6
22 Hunting 23 Entertainment
out & about
education
FOR EVENTS HAPPENING IN YOUR AREA, CHECK PAGE 21 IN OUT AND ABOUT
Emilie Altorfer, a middle school student attending Southern Middle School in Lusby, is making sure needy people have warm hands and feet during the cold months ahead through Project Warm Hearts. SEE PAGE 19
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or e-mail us at info@countytimes.net Thursday, December-2010
December 10- 12 2010 Island s n o Solom eport Tide R
Day
High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time /Low Time Feet Sunset Visibl
% Moon
F 10 High 4:50 AM 0.8 7:12 AM Rise 10:41 AM 10 Low 10:41 AM 0.0 4:46 PM Set 9:46 PM 10 High 5:32 PM 1.2
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Sa 11 Low 12:25 AM 0.1 7:13 AM Rise 11:08 AM 11 High 5:42 AM 0.8 4:46 PM Set 10:44 PM 11 Low 11:33 AM 0.1 11 High 6:13 PM 1.2
25
Su 12 Low 1:01 AM 0.1 7:13 AM Rise 11:33 AM 12 High 6:38 AM 0.9 4:46 PM Set 11:40 PM 12 Low 12:31 PM 0.1 12 High 6:54 PM 1.1
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December 17 - 19 2010 Day
High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time /Low Time Feet Sunset Visibl
% Moon
F 17 Low 4:06 AM -0.1 7:17 AM Set 3:34 AM 17 High 11:14 AM 1.2 4:47 PM Rise 1:51 PM 17 Low 6:11 PM 0.1 17 High 10:46 PM 0.7
79
Sa 18 Low 4:48 AM -0.1 7:17 AM Set 4:37 AM 18 High 11:57 AM 1.3 4:48 PM Rise 2:31 PM 18 Low 7:03 PM 0.1 18 High 11:38 PM 0.6
87
Su 19 Low 5:32 AM -0.1 7:18 AM Set 5:39 AM 19 High 12:39 PM 1.3 4:48 PM Rise 3:19 PM 19 Low 7:50 PM 0.1
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Police Call Suspicious Death a Murder
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aryland State Police are investigating the death of a 41-year old Lusby woman found inside her car in a parking lot of a state park in Calvert County. Police identified the deceased as Sandra Renee Long, 41, of H.G. Trueman Road, Lusby. Long was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause and manner of death are unknown at this time, police report. “Due to the suspicious nature of the crime scene, investigators are treating this case as a homicide,” a Maryland State Police press release states. “A motive for
the murder has not been determined.” At approximately 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, an emergency phone call was received by the Calvert Control Center. The call came from a group of three hunters who discovered Long, apparently unconscious and unresponsive inside her parked car. Long was found in the front seat of her silver 2009 Ford Focus with Maryland tags. The car was parked in a lot bordering Calvert Cliffs State Park, at the intersection of Camp Canoy Road and H.G. Trueman Road. Long was pronounced dead by EMS personnel. She was taken to the Office of
LOCAL NEWS
the State Medical Examiner for an autopsy, the press release states. Elena Russo, spokeswoman for the state police, said that investigators were withholding the cause of death in the killing of Sandra Renee Long, 41, of Lusby as part of their strategy for closing the case. Russo said that there were definite indications of foul play in Long’s killing but police have few clues so far. “At this point we don’t have any leads,” Russo said. “She did not report
for work the day she was found … We don’t have any motive for her being there and no motive for a homicide.” Police are asking anyone who may have seen Long on the morning of Monday, Nov. 29, or who may have information regarding this case, to please call the Maryland State Police at the Prince Frederick Barrack at 410-535-1400.
Students Put Finishing Touches on ‘Our Lady’ Canoe
completed construction and are preparing the canoe for painting a mural on its surface. All of the OLSS School students will be involved, helping to paint the mural scene. Eighth grader William Callis, 13, of North Beach is in charge of designing the mural, which he revealed will feature the school, the old church and the new church. “Calvert Marine Museum typically collects $2,000 for their canoe raffle, during a one weekend event. OLSS is hoping to exceed that amount,” Pucciarella said. “This canoe built by the 8th grade class will hold the imprint of each student in the school, so it will have tremendous sentimental value.” Please contact our school at (410) 326-3171 for more information or to purchase a raffle ticket or two.
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ighth graders at Our Lady Star of the Sea School are wrapping up a canoe-building project to help raise money to keep the school open. The Calvert Marine Museum donated the $650 through the Melvin Conant Memorial Youth Fund to allow the students to build a canoe that they will offer at a raffle to raise money. The Solomons Catholic School needs to raise $165,000 in order to stay open. A number of activities are planned this month that they hope will help them meet the goal. Calvert Marine Museum and Program Director George Surgent volunteered to offer OLSS School an opportunity to have the students participate in their “Build A Canoe” program at no cost. “Our 8th grade students began construction on Nov. 10. The school plans to continue to apply for this scholarship annually,” said parent volunteer Suzanne Pucciarella. Raffle tickets for the beautiful 16-foot canoe are currently on sale for $25 each. The students have
Auto - Home - Business - Life Serving Southern MD Leonardtown (301) 475-3151 LaPlata (301) 934-8437 Bryans Road (301) 743-9000 www.danburris.com
Thursday, December-2010
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LOCAL NEWS
Gang Activity a Real Issue in Southern Maryland
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State Submits $10 Billion Bay Clean Up Plan
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he state’s latest plan to help clean up the Chesapeake Bay per tough new federal mandates aims to reduce pollutants like nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment from storm water runoff by wide margins by the year 2020, a full five years ahead of the dates set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The plan, sent to the federal government Dec. 3 after a week’s tardiness, calls for upgrading wastewater treatment plants, improved storm water treatment and more regulation of fertilizers like manure on Maryland farms to reach its objectives. The total goals of the latest phase of the plan are to reduce nitrogen by 21 percent to just over 39 million pounds a year, phosphorus by 18 percent down to 2.7 million pounds a year and sediment by 12 percent down to 1.2 million pounds a year. The costs for the initial plan, however, laid out in a letter from four state cabinet secretaries, appear to be steep, at up to $10 billion to complete the work between 2011 and 2017. The state, in its letter to the EPA, seemed to call for federal funding to aid in the carrying out of the mandates, which some local officials have said are ambitious. At the county level, the challenge in keeping up with the report, though, is shaping up to be
he terms “gang” and “gang members” are not catch-all phrases for hoodlums hanging out in neighborhoods causing trouble. In Maryland the law outlines what it takes to be considered a gang or gang member, according to Cpl. Scott C. Parrish of Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigative Team. At the request of the Patuxent High School PTA, Parrish spoke for over an hour about gang activity in Calvert County. Concerned parents, three county commissioners, local civic organizations as well as representatives from both county government and school board filled the high school auditorium just before Thanksgiving to learn more. Parrish is currently assigned to the Southern Maryland Information Center (SMIC) which is responsible for tracking and monitoring all aspects of gang activity. Investigators from Charles, St. Mary’s and Calvert Counties are also members of the team. SMIC has identified prison gangs; motorcyclists; racist and street gangs operating within the three counties. Many of the gangs are national with local crews starting throughout Southern Maryland. Parrish spoke to the national gangs at the beginning of his presentation, but focused his program local gangs, which interested most of the audience as residents of the Chesapeake Ranch Estates. “There is a validation process that law enforcement needs to go through before we can put that label on someone. It’s three or more individuals with a common identifier, usually a name, a color a symbol. They have some sort of rank structure wo “crews” and one qualified gang within the gang and there is a whole list of crimes they must participate in. It ranges are known to operate in the Chesafrom narcotics all the way to felony assault.” peake Ranch Estates, according to Sheriff Liaison Officers, school administrators and teachers know the signs of Cpl. Scott C. Parrish of Calvert County Shergang activity. iff’s Office Criminal Investigative Team. “Staff is good at identifying at risk kids and getting them intervention,” acThe two organizations lack an identificording to Corporal Glen Levy, PHS Sheriff Liaison officer. He adds that DARE able hierarchy which prevents them from beprograms are not just about drugs and alcohol but helping kids make better decisions ing labeled a gang. However, GMG (Get Monwhich they hope includes becoming involved in gangs. Parrish did warn parents that if their children did become involved in drugs it was more likely they will become involved in gangs as well. Throughout the presentation, Parrish showed pictures of gang graffiti and tags found within Calvert County as well as Facebook pictures of known gang members displaying their hand signs or weapons. A number of parents in the audience protested the fact that Parrish chose to black out the faces of the gang members, even though many have been convicted of crimes. The parents also protested the fact that Parents can watch for the following warnParrish was not able to give them an easy reference to look up where ing signs that their children may be involved in these known gang members lived and operated. Parrish agreed it was frustrating that there is no database like Sex gangs. Offender lists; however, he did say conscientious citizens could look in Failing grades; attention problems; inapprothe local newspapers for names of people convicted and then look up priate language; drawing repeated symbols on those names in Maryland’s criminal records at www.criminal-records. notebooks, textbooks, desks; violent or aggresorg. MS-13, originally from El Salvador, is the fastest growing and sive behavior; new friends; hand signs; graffiti; most violent and organized gang operating in the Unites States. Those drug use, new clothing style; tattoos; cuts and familiar with the 2001 Capitol Hill Intern Chandra Levy disappearance bruises; weapons and unexplained money. and murder might also know the convicted killer Ingmar Guandique’s The following Web sites have gang identifyties to this gang. ing information, as well as resources about recParrish refers to a report in February 2006 from MSNBC reporter Rita Crosby talking about the rise in MS 13 particularly pointing to ognizing and preventing gangs: Southern Maryland. • www.teachersagainstgangs.com Considering the gang activity discovered in Southern Maryland, • www.gangsorus.com Parrish said Calvert County has the fewest problems. He told the frus• www.studentsagainstgangs.com trated audience members that being a member of a gang is not illegal. If residents suspect gang activity around them Parrish asks that they call Information about Gangs in Southern him or SMIC. Maryland “Let me decide if it was worth calling in. I’d rather investigate one • http://gangs.umd.edu/ hundred false leads than miss one,” said Parrish. • www.insideprison.com/prison_gang_pro Parrish had pictures and materials he’s willing to share with citizens and groups but not provide copies or publish. For more informa- file_MS-13.asp tion, including how to identify gang members, you can reach him at • www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11240718/ns/ 410-535-2800 or parrissc@co.cal.md.us By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) msnbc_tv-rita_cosby_specials/
a difficult one, since the state has yet to transfer final pollution load limit data to individual local governments. Planning to meet the requirements of the EPA’s mandates at the local level is the second phase of the plan but one local official in Calvert County’s environmental planning section said that they need more time. “We’ve been asking the EPA for extensions on that because the state has said that they won’t have pollution loading data until April or May,” said David Brownlee. “They’d want us to do a plan in a month. “It doesn’t work,” he said. Also because the data the county needs to work up its own plan has been slow in coming, Brownlee said it was difficult to say exactly what sectors of the community and the economy would be most affected, but one safe bet was septic systems for single family homes. A significant portion of the county’s yearly nitrogen pollution load comes from homes with septic systems, and to curb the amount of nitrogen from them would likely take technology like a nitrogen-reducing septic system on new homes that would increase costs of construction. By Guy
Leonard (CT) info@somdpublishing.net
Known Gangs in Ranch Club
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Educate Yourself About Gangs
info@somdpublishing.net
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Thursday, December-2010
ey Goons) meets the legal definition. There are 25 known members and 15-20 associates identified so far in this homegrown gang. Their crimes include handgun violations, assault, armed robbery, witness intimidation and rape. Members of this gang have been students of PHS in the past, but currently there are no known members of any gang known to be students in any of the schools. One member of the audience asked about the September 10, 2010 shooting of Maryland State Police and Calvert County Sheriff cars and homes. Parrish said he couldn’t comment on ongoing police investigations, but did admit that gang activity was initially suspected and later ruled out. Parrish informed the audience there are a number of national gangs operating within Calvert County. These include SUR13, Bloods and Crips as well as a Maryland prison based gang called DMI . Even though they haven’t identified any MS-13 gang members in Calvert, SMIC is tracking their activity. For example, they know MS-13 gangs from Prince George’s and Charles counties in Maryland as well as from Northern Virginia and D.C. were driving through both St. Mary’s and Calvert during the summer to meet at Point Lookout. “MS-13 follows increases in Hispanic populations and they prey on their own,” said Parrish, who said on his way to the presentation he saw a box truck with the gang’s tag ‘MARA’ at the intersection of Rousby Hall Road and Route 4. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) info@somdpublishing.net
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Business and Its Products Are 100 Percent Organic
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orever Eden Collection, LLC, a local manufacturer of organic products, has taken the next step in growing its business. In December the owner of Forever Eden, Wynne Briscoe, started selling her flagship 100 percent natural lip balm in six local retail stores throughout St. Mary’s and Calvert counties. “I think it is important to really note the customer has been driving Forever Eden from the beginning. It’s like we are on the ground and Forever Eden is the kite in the sky,” Briscoe said. “From the beginning it was just our concept
and once the community, our circle, started trying it, it went to sample stage, to small and personal retail to sell to family and friends. From there it went to an outer layer like an onion to their family and friends. Then we put up an e-commerce Web site within eight months.” Their initial concept was to have affordable unscented organic skincare products. It all started with a personal need of Briscoe and her sister, Wanda, to have products that wouldn’t irritate their sensitive skin. Being a crafter and entrepreneur, Briscoe set out to fulfill their need a little over four years ago by researching indigenous farming cultures from around the world and going back through history. After a year she’d found 800 recipes. She first worked on her recipe for lip balm. After several trial runs and receiving input from her family and friends, she settled on the current lip balm formula. One of the major Wynne Briscoe
factors for her lip balm was to price it the same as other lip balm products on retail shelves. She didn’t see the need to charge three times as much just because it was 100 percent organic. Since creating the lip balm, Forever Eden has come out with over 40 organic products such as deodorant, body creams, body moisturizers, toothpaste, insect repellent, sun screen, mouthwash, herbal pillows, linen sprays and more. However, she doesn’t intend on stopping there. During 2011 she wants to add several lines to her products, including a men’s line in which personal grooming products will be more masculine; a women’s line for cosmetics and a baby line for wipes, powder and creams. All the products will continue to be 100 percent organic and affordable. She makes and packages all of her products in a commercial space in St. Mary’s County which she shares with another small business. While she was born and raised in St. Mary’s County, Briscoe and her husband recently moved to Calvert County where she also sells her products. Forever Eden products are sold through community events such as Anne Marie Gardens, Farmer’s Markets, and County Fairs; personal pamper parties, similar to other marketing products like Tastefully Simple and Southern Living; and through her business relationships. She also sells through her website at www.myforevereden.com. Briscoe said her top three priorities for Forever Eden are customer service, education on the natural lifestyle and affordability. “I really want to do more pamper parties. I like to talk to the ladies to understand their needs and educate them on what we have to offer,” said Briscoe. Whether she sells her product or not, one of the important things to her is educating people on what chemicals are in the products they use every day and what those chemicals can do to them over the long haul. It is a lifestyle for Briscoe, not just a business. She is careful about what she eats, what she uses on her body and in her household and uses only the top quality ingredients in her products. She hopes one day local farmers will grow the ingredients she needs because she’s an advocate of Buy Local, Organic and recycle, reuse and repurpose. After rolling out lip balm to local stores, Briscoe plans to add to the wholesale line over the year by rolling out deodorant, body creams and lavender and rosemary sprays. Right now she is mostly limited by the fact she is still mostly a one-woman operation. Her products can be found in The Good Earth in Leonardtown, Nati’s Unique Boutique in San Souci Plaza, Joy Lane Healing Center in Hollywood, the Apple Basket in Mechanicville, Chesapeake Bounty off Route 4 in St. Leonard and Nature’s Way to Health behind the Outback Steakhouse in Prince Frederick. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) info@ somdpublishing.net
LOCAL NEWS Pet License Amnesty Week
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he Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Unit will be holding its second annual Amnesty Week for pet owners to purchase pet licenses at a reduced cost. The event will be held Dec. 20 through Dec. 23. Licenses may be purchased at the reduced price only at these locations: the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Dec. 20-23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department on Dec. 20 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., the Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Department on Dec. 22 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and at the Solomons Volunteer Fire Department on Dec. 23 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The cost for a spayed/neutered pet will be $3 and nonspayed/non-neutered pets will be $10. A copy of the pet’s current rabies vaccination and proof of spay or neuter will need to be provided to purchase the pet license. Cash or check will be accepted. For more information or questions please contact the Animal Control Unit at 410-535-1600, extension 2526.
Dunkirk Market Place (Next to Safeway) (410) 257-2772 • (301) 855-8770 Prince Frederick Market Square (Next to Library) (410) 535-4338 • (301) 855-1020 www.dickinsonjewelers.com
Thursday, December-2010
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LOCAL NEWS
Tiki Bar Event Raised $3,000 for PAWS
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he Patuxent Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is making sure the four-legged residents of Calvert County are being taken care of. On Friday evening, Jean Radeackar, the treasurer of PAWS was presented with a check for $3,000 by Joe Kurley and Terry Clarke from the Tiki Bar. The money was raised during the second annual Dog Gone Tiki Bar Event. Radeackar said the money will go to benefit the new Calvert County Well Pet Clinic in South Huntingtown. She said the clinic is slated to open in January and will offer low-cost spay and neutering for pets. The contactors are supposed to be finished by Dec. 17, Radeackar said. Kurley said he was pleased with how the Dog Gone Tiki Bar even went. “I thought we did great,” he said. The date for the next Dog Gone Tiki Bar event is set for Sunday, Oct. 16, the weekend after the 2011 Patuxent River Appreciation Days (PRAD). By Sarah Miller (CT) info@somdpublishing.net
Photo by Sarah Miller Tiki Bar Manager Joe Kurley, left rear, and co-owner Terry Clarke present a $3,000 check to Patuxent Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), which was received by Jean Radeackar, the treasurer of PAWS, front left, and Mary Beth Gates, owner of Pepper’s Pet Pantry.
Annmarie Gardens Aglow With Garden In Lights
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nnmarie Gardens will be all lit up through the holiday season during its annual Garden of Lights, which runs nightly from 6 until 9 p.m., from Dec.
4 to Jan. 2. “Last year we got a lot of positive feedback from it,” said Kathy Magiera, Marketing Coordinator at Annmarie Garden Sculpture Park & Arts Center. “It’s more of a community event, and you can take your time. It’s very magical.” Garden In Lights is a walking tour that takes visitors on an illuminated trip on the wooded path to see dozens of light sculptures that are handmade by the staff at Annmarie Garden. Mythical beasts, wild animals, pirates, illuminated works of art and other fantastical creations will surround guests as they walk through the gardens. This is the third year that the Gardens in Lights is a walkthrough event. In past years it was a drive-through event. As visitors pull into the entrance of Annmarie, it will be all illumined out front. On the walkway, it is lit up just enough to see the walkway and still enjoy the lightshow in the woods off the path. “It takes all the staff and many volunteers weeks to coordinate all this,” Magiera said. “These are all hand-made. There is
nothing commercially bought in our show, and it changes year after year.” Some of the sculptures, or vignettes as Magiera called them, will be familiar faces from last year’s Garden in Light while others will be brand new for this year. She said the plan is to rotate them in and out, while putting new exhibits in with the old favorites each year. Magiera said in addition to the lights, there is going to be live entertainment and refreshments provided by Dunkin Donuts of Lusby. In addition to the normal operating hours, Magiera said the arts center will be having specialty nights, including a Teen two-for-one night Dec. 12, an active duty military night Dec. 28, a pet night on Jan. 1 and a pajama night on Jan 2. “The night before school begins, come on over in your PJs and enjoy one last holiday,” Magiera said. Pets on pet night must be well behaved and on a leash no longer than six feet. The price for admission is $5 for people over the age of 5. For more information, go to www.annmariegardens.com. By Sarah Miller (CT) info@somdpublishing.net
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Thursday, December-2010
Committee Rejects ‘Race to The Top’ Plan
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regulation that would base 50 percent of teacher evaluations on “student growth” in order to secure federal funds was rejected by a legislative committee because it “took away the flexibility” of local school systems and required feedback that “never happened,” said Sen. Paul G. Pinsky, D-Prince George’s. Pinsky and other members of the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive and Legislative Review are hoping for a revised version of the regulation proposed by the Maryland State Board of Education that is less specific and incorporates more input from local school systems. The state board, however, has the power to push the current form of the regulation forward to Gov. Martin O’Malley. The committee’s vote has raised concerns about the potential effect on the federal Race to the Top funds the state was awarded in August. The state’s application for the federal funds called for making 50 percent of teacher evaluations dependent on student growth. Maryland was awarded $250 million from the competitive Race to the Top program to help it carry out education reform. With the state hoping to implement these federal funds starting next year, Bill Reinhard, a spokesman for the Maryland State Department of Education, said he expects a decision about the regulation will be made soon. “My sense is the (Maryland State Board of Education) will move quickly,” Reinhard said. Despite the potential consequences to the federal funds, the committee voted against the regulation based on contradictions between it and past legislation, Pinsky and others said. The Education Reform Act of 2010 differentiates between “general standards” for teacher evaluations, created by the state board, and more specific “criteria” which are to be determined by local school systems. Pinsky, the Senate chair of the committee, said the new regulation dictated too directly what local systems had to do instead of allowing them to generate their own individual criteria. “We’re not going to do a top-down kind of thing,” said Pinsky. Another major concern is that the state board did not properly collaborate with local school systems to develop the regulation, a requirement in the Education Reform Act. “It seemed like they were short-circuiting the process,” said Delegate Anne Healey, D-Prince George’s, and house chair of the committee. The regulation now goes back to the state board with the committee’s vote and recommendations. Some worry that if the board makes substantial changes to the 50 percent requirement, the federal funds could be put in jeopardy. “We are concerned,” Reinhard said. Shaun Adamec, a spokesman for the governor, emphasized O’Malley will protect the federal funds. “Whatever happens next, the governor is certainly not going to do anything to jeopardize Race to the Top funds,” Adamec said. Pinsky, however, said he does think the funds are at risk and that the committee recommended the governor speak with the U.S. Department of Education about possible “minor changes.” “We have a law here that’s way beyond Race to the Top,” Pinsky said. By Lindsay Powers (Capital News Service)
Reflecting on the Holiday Season By Nick Garrett
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n first grade, we are taught about Thanksgiving with the pilgrims and Indians sitting around a plentiful table sharing food and laughing together. To further the celebration, we even got to make little turkeys out of paper plates, construction paper, and cotton balls. We are led to believe the first Thanksgiving was a picture of absolute harmony, peace, and festive feasting, but that may not be completely historically accurate. Who am I to judge though? I have to eat Thanksgiving dinner with my brotherin-law year after year and reach my hand out in much the same way that the Indians must have done for the pilgrims! Deeper thoughts about the historical accuracy of such an event, the complexities of the relationships between natives and pilgrim settlers, and a comparison to us as people today yield an important and unapologetic look that may inspire us to celebrate in a new way, with a new understanding. Imagine my heartache when I read the first unofficial Thanksgiving Proclamation from William Bradford at Plimouth where he thanks God for protecting them from, “the ravages of the savages.” That statement hardly paints a picture of absolute trust and fellowship between natives and pilgrims. The first Thanksgiving celebration, for them, must have highlighted an acknowledgement that both peoples would have a long way to go in learning how to coex-
ist in peace with vastly different experiences and perspectives on life. In their first year together, there were times that the pilgrims were starving and stole stockpiles of corn and desecrated the graves of Indian ancestors both accidentally and, at times, on purpose. There are indications that Indian translators like Squanto and Hobomok attempted to pit the Pilgrims and Indians against each other by embellishing the truth and playing on the fears and weaknesses of the people, all done for their own personal gain. At the time of the autumn festival, there had been a year of ups and downs demonstrating the strengths and flaws of human nature that both peoples shared in common. Massasoit, the Grand Sachem of the Indians had land and techniques for agriculture that the Pilgrims would need to survive. On the other hand, Pilgrims had imports and technology that the Indians wanted. So as they sat around a Thanksgiving table with a variety of different foods, languages, and experiences. This feast for them must have celebrated and highlighted the complexities of their lives together. I am sure they were literally thankful for life, food, and family. It is safe to assume in a situation like theirs, the event was marked by tolerance, forgiveness, hope, and openness. Perhaps in our time, a Thanksgiving celebration could evolve to be one where we step outside of our comfort zones and the safety of our routines, and demonstrate thanks in new ways. Not because we have to, but because we realize that no matter how poor or rich, black or white, Republican or Democrat, we may be, that we are part of the same race and are indirectly reliant on each other for all things.
‘Patuxent Voices’ Performs Holiday Concerts
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atuxent Voices, Southern Maryland’s premiere women’s a cappella group, presents a holiday concert guaranteed to put you in the spirit. Songs of Good Cheer is a gift of music, serving up treasured carols, popular favorites, swinging jazz, and Christmas standards. The group blends wide vocal ranges to creates a full, rich sound redolent with soaring harmonies. Along with the angelic tones comes the unexpected: O Holy Night with Latin rhythms, Carol of the Bells that rings into entirely new territory, a swing rendition of It’s a Holly, Jolly Christmas and Rudolph like you’ve never heard it before. There is something to please ev-
ery ear. Entertaining local audiences since 2004, the 12 women who make up the group hail from Calvert and St. Mary’s and sing under the creative direction of Linda Moritz Aughe. Patuxent Voices will perform Songs of Good Cheer on Saturday, December 11, 7:30 p.m., in Middleham St. Peter’s Parish Hall in Lusby, and Sunday, December 12, 3:00 p.m. in Trinity Church, St. Mary’s College. There is no admission charge, but donations are appreciated. To learn more about the group or see additional performance dates, visit www.patuxentvoices.org or friend us on Facebook.
With little effort, we all find gratitude for our families, jobs, and necessaries. This holiday season I am going to try to demonstrate my thankfulness through increased tolerance, forgiveness, and openness. I am also going to do my best to “speak and understand the language” of those who are different from me. During a time when wars still plague the globe, natural disasters deprive people of necessities and shelter, moral fiber unravels through negative individualism, poverty and economic challenges flourish, we can look forward to improvements in all things. If vastly different people can make such bold accomplishments in humanity such as an autumn festival or Thanksgiving celebration, I know I can listen to my brother-in-law or neighbor tell me “what I need to do,” with a little more openness and candor. I want to thank all of you who have read my articles and given feedback since I started writing this year in the Southern Calvert Gazette and the Chesapeake Current and I promise to continue offering honest, fair, and objective looks at the politics affecting our everyday lives here in Calvert County. It is my honor to be a part of such a wonderful community and I thank you. Happy Holidays! About the Author: Nick Garrett is the owner of The Garrett Music Academy in Owings, a published author, and has served and continues to serve on various boards and commissions in Calvert County.
TUBACHRISTMAS Returns to Solomons
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ur Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church will be hosting Solomons 9th annual TUBACHRISTMAS concert at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 19. The TUBACHRISTMAS performance is open to the public and free of charge. Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church is located on Alexander Lane in Solomons. Local musicians from Southern Maryland look forward to TUBACHRISTMAS
every year and invite the public to come join them for this unique holiday celebration. All low brass players in the local area are welcome to play in the group TUBACHRISTMAS features traditional Christmas carols arranged for tuba, sousaphone, euphonium and baritone horn players as well as opportunities for the audience to sing along. For more information, visit www.tubachristmas.com
Thursday, December-2010
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Deer Hunters Urged to Practice Safety
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eer season is now underway, and Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) encourages hunters to put safety first. “Tree stand incidents account for most hunting accidents,” said NRP Superintendent Colonel George G. Johnson IV. “There have already been three tree stand related hunting fatalities this hunting season.” All hunters should use a full-body safety harness that keeps the hunter tethered to the tree and prevents a fall to the ground. NRP reminds hunters to inspect their safety equipment prior to use and replace any worn or broken pieces. The DNR has produced a helpful video, demonstrating how to use a tree stand and full-body safety harness that can be viewed on YouTube.com (search for Tree Stand Safety – StateMaryland). Hunters are urged to always carry their cell phones in a zipper pocket so that any tree stand or hunting accidents can quickly be reported to 911 and/or to a nearby hunting buddy. The improper use of weapons has been another cause of accidents. Hunters should inspect, be familiar with, and practice with the weapon that is to be used prior to the start of the hunt. All hunters should follow these laws and regulations
before they go hunting: • Hunters must obtain and possess a hunting license while hunting. • A course in firearms and hunter safety is required for those who did not hunt prior to July 1, 1977. • Hunters must possess written permission from landowner before hunting on private property. • Hunters and companions must wear a fluorescent cap or outer garment that contains 250 squareinches of fluorescent orange color. • Possessing loaded weapons in a vehicle is prohibited. This includes ammunition in the magazine or chamber. • It is illegal to shoot or hunt from or across a roadway. • Hunting within 150 yards of a residence, camp or other building is prohibited without advance permission of owner or occupant. • Before removing the deer from the location of the kill, a field tag must be filled out and attached to the deer. It must be recorded on the hunter’s Big Game Harvest Record. • Hunters must check-in the deer within 24 hours of field tagging to the Department of Natural Resources via the Internet at www.gamecheck.dnr. state.md.us or the call the Big Game Registration phone line at (888) 800-0120. The confirmation number must then be entered onto the Big Game Harvest Record. Citizens are encouraged to call the Natural Resources Police Communication Center at (800) 628-9944 with poaching complaints, public lands enforcement questions or maritime enforcement questions.
Our Lady Star awk of the Sea School Christmas Shopping Bazaar Saturday, December 18, 9 AM – 2 PM
Proceeds benefit the Our Lady Star of the Sea School “Support Our Future Together” Campaign!
Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle, & 5k!
Vendors Welcome! please contact Diane Allen at (443) 226-5575 or familyallen@comcast.net
To register for the 5k Run/Walk please contact Carmen Gerber at CarmenGerber@comcast.net or on-line @ http://www.active.com/running/solomons-md/our-lady-starof-the-sea-school-inaugural-5k-runwalk-2010
PRESENTING:
Homemade
Arts & Crafts, Pampered Chef, Premier Designs Jewelry, Educate & Celebrate, Carole Purcell – Watercolorist, Scentsy Candles, Silpada Jewelry, Mary Kay and more!!
Refreshments available! Homemade Baked Goods, Papa Johns Pizza, Smoothie King, Popcorn, Hotdogs, Cotton Candy and more!!
Our Lady Star of the Sea School is located on scenic Solomons Island at 90 Alexander Lane, Solomons, MD 20688
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Thursday, December-2010
Stoney’s Gives $2,600 to ‘Shop With a Cop’ On Nov. 30, Jeannie Stone, owner of Stoney’s Kingfisher, presented Sheriff Mike Evans with a check for this year’s Shop with a Cop event in the amount of $2,675. Stone coordinated several fund raisers at her Broomes Island location during the summer months and the above amount was donated from those proceeds. The amount donated is the highest single donation that Shop with a Cop has received in recent years. The Calvert Shop with a Cop family extends sincere gratitude to her and the Stoney’s organization for this tremendous help, a press release states. It is a comforting thought to know that citizens like Mrs. Stone will assist the community in such a generous way.
USCG Auxiliary GPS Course Sharpen your GPS navigation skills over the winter. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary, Solomons Flotilla will be presenting the GPS for Mariners course at the Southern Community Center in Lusby. The course will be presented on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30 – 9 p.m. Course sessions begin on Dec. 28, and will continue through Jan. 13. Each student will receive the GPS for Mariners textbook to retain for future reference. This course provides hands-on training for persons with handheld GPS units, permanently mounted GPS units or chartplotters. Preregistration is required so that the lessons can be tailored to your specific GPS unit. Contact Gary Smith at 410-326-8377 or fsope.232@hotmail.com for further information.
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Calvert Earns Maryland Tourism Award
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he Calvert County Department of Economic Development recently garnered a marketing award from the Maryland Tourism Council (MTC) for its 2009 Focus on Calvert photo contest. The award, bestowed at the annual Maryland Tourism and Travel Summit in Annapolis, was in the category of “Best Shoestring Budget.” At the summit, the MTC gave five professional awards and 11 marketing awards to members who were nominated by their peers and/or employers. Recipients of the professional awards are honored for their skill, dedication and talent that bring professionalism to Maryland tourism. The marketing
awards recognize MTC members whose marketing programs are creative, thoughtful and innovative and are the result of successful team efforts to bring visitors and travel revenue to Maryland, a press release states. Calvert County’s 2009 Focus on Calvert photo contest encouraged contestants to submit photos on a scene or activity depicting the unique qualities and beauty of Calvert County. Photos featured festivals, parks, Chesapeake Bay life, landmarks and historical icons and cash prizes were awarded to an overall grand prize winner, a first-place winner and two runners-up. Photographs were exhibited at a special reception, featured on the Department of Economic Development Web site, included in a 2009 calendar and have been used in promotional brochures, pamphlets and advertisements. For more information about the Calvert County, Md., Department of Economic Development, our visitor sites and attractions and the services available to assist county businesses, call 410-535-4583, 800331-9771 or 301-855-1880; send an e-mail to info@ ecalvert.com, or visit online at www.ecalvert.com.
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Joy to the World
hesapeake Community Chorus’ next concert “Joy to the World” is at Olivet United Methodist Church, 13057 Olivet Road, Lusby, Sunday, Dec. 12, at 5 p.m. The concert will feature contemporary, gospel, classical Christian and Christmas favorites by John Rutter, Tom Fettke, Moses Hogan, G. F. Handel and others. A free-will offering will be taken to support the maintenance of the Burnett-Calvert Hospice House. The Chorus is a volunteer group of thirty singers in its 8th season giving concerts for the benefit of charities in Calvert County.
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Art Walk 2010
alvART, Main Street, Chesapeake Frames and The Bead Boutique are being joined this year by many of the businesses in the Shopping Center and along Main and Duke Streets in Prince Frederickl for the Artwalk on Dec. 11 from 1 to 5 p.m. At 5pm, there will be a special Raffle Event at Dreamweaver Café for those who have visited and received validation from all of the participating businesses. For more information about Art Walk Prince Frederick 2010, contact CalvART Gallery at 410-257-7005.
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Thursday, December-2010
9
Sp rts Bruno Hopes For Pax Boys Improvement
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ven with only four returning players from last year’s team, Patuxent boys’ basketball coach Lou Bruno
is hopeful the Panthers can improve their positioning in a deep Southern Maryland Athletic Conference boys’ division this season. “I think every coach wants to win the SMAC, that’s for sure, and our goals are no different,” Bruno says. “I respect all of the teams in the league and you have to come to play every night, that’s why it’s wide open.” Bruno listed center Jake Robertson, forwards John Clyburn and Chicago Garner and guards Colin Gantt and Travez Lee as his key play-
ers, but says that all 11 will contribute in some fashion on the floor this season. “I want the kids to win so they feel like the hard work does pay off,” Bruno explains. “I want us to be better in March than we are in December.” For that to happen, Bruno believes that a concerted effort on offense to match a suffocating Panther defense will be the key this season. “Offense is definitely a big focus this year,” he said. “We played well enough defensively last year to keep us in games and give us a chance to win but we lacked consistency on offense. I feel that will change this year.” For Bruno, in his second year as head coach, if the players can match his excitement and dedication to the game, he feels they can improve on last season’s record (2-17 overall, 1-11 SMAC). “I want the kids to have the same passion as I do. I want them to trust and believe in what I am trying to do. If I can get them to buy in, then we will be more successful,” he said. By Chris Stevens (CT)
Hampton Leads Patuxent Girls Into Battle
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hile this his first season as a head basketball coach, Stan Hampton knows Patuxent High School sports very well. Hampton, a junior varsity coach for both the boys and girls teams, steps up to lead the Panthers in place of Chris Turlington. “I’m very excited about this opportunity,” Hampton said as the Panthers prepared for their season opener Tuesday night against Lackey. “There is a lot of great talent in SMAC, and I believe our team is up to the challenge to compete at a high level.” The Panthers (2-18, 1-10 SMAC in the 2009-10 season) return Courtney Hill, Katie Dunigan and Amy Samilton to the program, while Breanna Thomas is being counted out to pick up where LaChrisha Hill left off in the paint. “We’ve got girls that have varsity experience, and we also have great athletes that are a part of other winning programs here at Patuxent,” Hampton says. “By combining the athletic ability of the team as well as a winning attitude, we have a really good chance to see more improvement and more victories.” To get the desired improvement in the win column, Hampton believes that a great attitude on both ends of the floor helps the cause. “The best offense is a good defense. Our team is in good shape, and they are really working hard to learn how to play basketball the right way,” he said. “Both offensively and defensively, attitude says a lot, and so far our attitude has been very impressive. And that attitude is one that he hopes will transform the Panther girls into winners on a consistent basis this season. “This program is really tired of losing, and it looks like our attitude is so positive right now that I really think we have a chance to become the winning team we strive to be,” he said. By Chris Stevens (CT)
info@somdpublishing.net
Amy Samilton
Patuxent All-SMAC Honorees
Football
Second Team Offense Jake Robertson, offensive lineman, senior First Team Defense Jake Robertson, defensive lineman, senior
Boys’ Soccer Second Team Back Josh Howe, senior
Girls’ Soccer
First Team Midfield Lindsey Lane, sophomore
info@somdpublishing.net
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Southern Calvert
Thursday, December-2010
Most Outstanding Player Claire Ganoe, senior
Coach of the Year Lynn Powell
First Team Offense Lydia Lorenson, sophomore First Team Midfielder Claire Ganoe, senior Second Team Offense Alison Nolan, junior Second Team Utility Taylor Courtney, senior
Volleyball
Second Team Defensive Specialist Lauren Trollinger, senior
Golf
Boys’ Second Team Keyan Riseling, sophomore
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10
Field Hockey
Girls’ First Team Samantha Hill, senior
Cross Country Boys’ First Team Seth Crim, senior
Loflin Leads Local Riders in ABA Grand Nationals Deyonta Gross goes high in an ABA Grand Nationals race. Photo By Frank Marquart
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everal young bicycle riders from St. Mary’s County (their home track is at Chaptico Park) spent their Thanksgiving Holiday in Tulsa, Okla. competing in the American Bicycle Association’s Grand Nationals event. 15-year old Ben Loflin of Hollywood (and a student at Leonard Hall Junior Naval Academy in Leonardtown) had the most successful performance of the group, finishing seventh in the Amateur Novice class. Loflin said that there were nerves at first, but he was able to focus on the task at hand. “It was overwhelming, being there with all the pros and different skills levels,” Loflin said. “I just pretty much focused on getting through the race, finishing and doing my best.” Loflin, who has only been riding competitively for a year, described the experience as surreal and an ideal way to spend the Thanksgiving Holiday. “It was probably a lot better than sitting in the house,” he said with a smile. He also plans to use the experience to help him become a better rider in the future. “I’ll probably take everything I learned and use it in the local races,” he said. Loflin was joined by brothers Lane and Mason Visele (nine and eight racks gained respectively), who advanced to the quarterfinals in their respective divisions. Jacob Beaulieu (five racks total), Deyonta Gross (nine racks in each the ROC and Grand National events) and Victor Marquart (four racks) also just missed semifinal appearances by one rider each. By Chris
Sp rts
Photo By Frank Marquart Ben Loflin is congratulated by his father Scott for his top 10 finish in the Amateur Novice class of the ABA Grand Nationals in Tulsa, Okla.
Stevens SCG chrisstevens@countytimes.net Mason Visele takes a turn during the ABA Grand Nationals.
Photo By Frank Marquart
Thursday, December-2010
11
Cover On The
‘Safe Nights’ Provides Warm
7 p.m. through 7 a.m. Safe Nights provides the cots, bedding and training while churches agree to provide the space, volomeless men, unteers, and three meals. During women and chilthe day, the homeless must leave dren are practicalthe shelter. ly invisible to the average CalThe Zaversniks, who have vert County citizen, but not to headed the program since the bethe founders of Safe Nights ginning, have figured 75 volun– 40 local churches and nearly teers are necessary for a church 2,000 volunteers who have to provide shelter during the provided safe and warm shelweek. However, some of the largter to more than 100 homeless er churches provide two or more residents the last three years. times that number. “You don’t see them. For example, Jesus The DiThey are in the woods in vine Word located in Huntingtents,” said Joe Zaversnik, town had 175 volunteers last co-program director of Safe week when they hosted Safe Nights of Calvert County. Nights. Eileen Jenkins, co-host “And they aren’t homeless coordinator, said the planning all the time. They stay off and for opening the shelter started on with family and friends,” months prior to their week. agrees Mary Ann Zaversnik, Tammy Baker and Lisa Mcwife and second program diWilliams coordinated the three rector of Safe Nights. meals a day. They developed Around 2006 and 2007, the menus and put out the call concerned citizens, churches to the rest of the congregation and the county government to provide the food. Safe Nights recognized Project Echo, the requires churches to feed their Mary Ann Zaversnik, co-director of Safe Nights, talks about the county’s only homeless shelguest an evening meal, a breakfounding of the program. ter, couldn’t support the growfast and then supply a bagged ing need to provide shelter lunch to get them through the during the winter months. At day. the time churches were trying to put homeless up in hotels, “It totally amazes me the generosity of the people, esbut it was getting expensive and hotels were not eager to pecially during the holidays when things are tight,” said keep them, according to the Zaversniks. Baker, who was feeding guests and volunteers Thursday Meetings between various organizations resulted in night with soup, salad, brownies and warm drinks. Safe Nights, “a program which brings together citizens Although Safe Nights can accommodate 20 guests, from all faiths and civic organizations that are dedicated to this particular evening there were only four adults and one a compassionate response to the plight of the homeless in 3-year-old girl who checked in. Each guest had at least two Calvert County,” according to their literature. volunteers interacting with them at each of the dinner tables November 2008 Safe Nights began with 15 churches set up for the evening. opening their doors for 18 weeks during the winter months. Stuart McLean, Kathy Kady and Amy Oursler, memEach church volunteers to open their facilities from Sun- bers of Jesus The Divine Word, sat with their guest, Lisa day evening through the following Sunday morning from
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Photos by Sean Rice
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Thursday, December-2010
Fowler and her 3-year-old daughter, Emily. The three volunteers kept Emily entertained for over an hour winding up a toy Santa Claus and making reindeer sounds. “This is my third year. This is my favorite part of the night. It reminds me that we are all one pay check away from disaster,” McLean said of his time playing with little Emily and talking to her mother. Lisa and Emily are not new to Safe Nights, in fact, Lisa took advantage of the program the first year when Emily was only 8 months old. The family didn’t need Safe Nights during the last two years, but has found a need for it again. Lisa suffers from depression which keeps her from holding down a job at times. And even when she can hold down a job the kinds of jobs she can get don’t pay enough for rent on top of her family’s basic needs. In the past she has lived off and on with her sister, but she said they get along better when they aren’t living under the same roof. “It’s a great program. All the churches are really helpful in taking us in. With Emily being so intelligent and full of life, they (the volunteers) immediately take to her. I appreciate they take the time to get to know her. She really likes it,” said Lisa about Safe Nights. Lisa was excited that Emily would start at the Yardley Hills Head Start program the following week. Head Start “provides comprehensive education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families.” Lisa said that she was sitting at the bus stop in Prince Frederick waiting for transportation to the Volun Safe Nights’ shelter when a woman pulled up in a car and started talking to her about Emily. The woman arranged for Emily to get into the preschool program. hav “Emily spoke to Santa at the Prince Frederick Fire She Department’s craft fair just before Thanksgiving and told dep him that she wanted friends,” said Lisa. Emily feels like she ing got her Christmas present early by being accepted into the to b program. par This year Safe Nights has 21 local churches opening fail their buildings for 22 weeks during the winter months. There are also 39 churches which help support Safe Nights pro through other means. Several churches provide transporta- this tion of the guests from Prince Frederick to churches outside the town. The guests know they have to be at the bus stop hav outside the court house by 6:30 p.m. and they will be re- peo turned by 7 a.m. the next morning. to o During the day the Prince Frederick branch of the had Calvert Library is open to homeless who want to stay eve warm. During the holidays and Sundays when there is no est. public transportation and the library isn’t open, several old other churches open their doors during the day to provide they Safe Nights clients with a place to stay until the shelter is reopened for the evening. “We tell everyone that we want to keep the safe in Safe Nights,” said Joe Zaversnik. The result is individuals wanting to participate in Safe Nights must meet certain qualifications. They must be homeless, furnish proof of residency in Calvert County, be ambulatory and capable of self care, be over 18 unless accompanied by an adult, sign and agree to the Guest Shelter Agreement, be drug and alcohol free and pass a background check. No guest can have a history of violence or sexual crimes and can’t be in trouble with the law. The shelter agreement is for the safety of the volunteers as well. The guests can only bring one piece of luggage, no outside drinks or food, no alcohol or drugs, be in bed by 10 p.m. and out by 7 a.m., can’t arrive after 9 p.m. and must remain in the building. They can leave but understand they can’t come back again that night. “We haven’t had any major incidents over the years,” said Mary Ann Zaversnik, who went on to say that they
rm Beds For Local Homeless
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ley art nd nd bus he Volunteer Stuart McLean plays with Emily Fowler before lights out. nd ed have removed a couple of guests who have been disruptive. Fire She appreciates the support of the Calvert County Sheriff’s old department which provides extra patrol to the church hostshe ing the shelter each week and is on standby if a guest needs the to be removed. The Sheriff will also keep guests in the department lobby when they are removed from the shelter or ing failed to reserve their night in time. ths. Joe Zaversnik agreed that there have been very few ghts problems with guests over the program years. “We tell them rta- this is a gift and they need to treat it like a gift.” side Since the beginning of the program the Zaversniks top have kept meticulous records. They shelter has housed 101 re- people in the past years, the men outnumber the women two to one, the shelters average 12 guests over the years but they the had a high of 17 one night. Emily was the youngest guest tay ever at 8 months old, and a gentleman aged 70 was the olds no est. The program directors are noticing more 18 to 21 years eral olds coming in this year. So far, a month into 2010 to 2011 vide they have registered 10 clients. r is
The Zaversniks know there are many more people the program can support; however, they find the homeless don’t want to come in for fear of being judged. “The homeless don’t want to be homeless,” said Mary Ann. “We can’t go looking for them. We really depend upon the guests, who have relationships with them, to tell them about the program,” said Joe. Guests come to Safe Nights through the hospital, Project Echo, Social Services, Probation, Detention Center and other referrals. In order to stay in the shelter, they need to register with Zaversniks, who have an office space at St. John Vianney Catholic Church on Main Street
Cover On The
in Prince Frederick. However, they need to call 443-4868670 or email safenights@sjvc.us to make an appointment. Although Joe and Mary Ann said they put in 40 hours a week or more into running Safe Nights, they don’t sit in their office waiting for guests to walk in. Instead, they are training churches, making presentations to churches, on site at the shelters, completing paperwork and compiling statistics. Their goal is to eventually train their replacements. “We aren’t going to live forever,” Mary Ann chuckles. Safe Nights became a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation this year and will accept monetary donations to offset expenses for transportation and supplies. The program also welcomes volunteers. Contact the Zaversniks at the same numbers and email above for more information. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) info@somdpublishing.net
Laura Lent, right, and her daughters Rachel, left, and Amanda, volunteered at the food line at Jesus The Divine Word in Huntingtown.
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Thursday, December-2010
13
Editor
Party Sweeps Didn’t Start With Evan, Steve and Pat
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TE ET to thR e
Smoke, Mirrors and Peep Shows
I am writing to you about the TSA plan for Nude Body Scans and/or enhanced pat downs of the breast, buttock and genital areas for every man, woman and child that want to fly in the United States. I do not believe these procedures are improving security. These procedures do not detect chemical explosives. They probably would not have detected the underwear bomber. These procedures also do not detect bombs, weapons, or drugs hidden in body cavities. Terrorists have already developed these techniques, so once again, we are not prepared. I do believe that these procedures are unreasonable searches, potentially traumatize children, and that they do not support the traditional family values of the United States. The background for the TSA Body Scan and enhanced pat down is the Christmas Underwear Bomber. In November of 2009, the underwear bomber’s father went to the CIA at the Embassy and Nigeria to tell them about his son being a fanatic. The CIA told the US National Counterterrorism Center. They put him on their database but did not inform the FBI so he never was placed on the No-Fly List. The State Department requested his visa revoked but they were over-ruled so the intelligence “experts” could better investigate Al-Qaeda. On Christmas of 2009 he was equipped with explosives and on a plane to Detroit from the Netherlands. Passengers overpowered him and used a fire extinguisher to put out the flames. The TSA plan is unacceptable. The TSA agents in the news for 2010 represent a questionable situation as to their selection, training, and moral character. A TSA agent in Florida was recently arrested for child molestation. Another was arrested in Florida over assaulting other agents due to their continual harassment of the size of his genitalia as revealed in their training on body scanners. In LAX a TSA agent was arrested after his shift for bizarre behavior and announcing that he was “God”. A Maryland girl of 12 traveling with family friends was pulled out of line and body scanned without parental approval in a Florida airport by TSA. Much of the American public is justifiably outraged and has lost confidence in the TSA. There is a very successful model for airport security in Israel. They do not use a nude body scanner there and search only highrisk passengers. The Israelis prevent bombs, hijackings, and Mumbai style attacks. They have been successful for decades. Another election occurs in two years. We can vote out politicians who are in favor of the TSA Plan. In the mean-time parents have the right to opt out of the nude body scanner for their children as well as themselves. Joe Belanger Leonardtown, MD Publisher Thomas McKay Associate Publisher Eric McKay Editor Sean Rice Office Manager Tobie Pulliam Graphic Artist Angie Stalcup Advertising suzannep@somdpublishing.net Email info@somdpublishing.net Phone 301-373-4125 Staff Writers Guy Leonard Sarah Miller Chris Stevens
Government Correspondent Community Correspondent Sports Correspondent
Contributing Writers Joyce Baki Corrin Howe Keith McGuire
Nick Garrett’s interesting observations on the 2010 local elections in the last issue of the Southern Calvert Gazette prompt me to take a quick look at Calvert politics from a more historical perspective. Calvert’s current Republican voter registration and electoral wave began about six months ago, but for decades or longer, whether under a
The outgoing Calvert Board of County Commissioners was more politically balanced with two Republicans: Gerry Clark and Susan Shaw, and three Democrats: Linda Kelley, Wilson Parran, and Barbara Stinnett. The incoming BOCC is all Republican.
Democrat or GOP label, the county has been a relatively traditional, conservative place. In September 1982, 69.9% of Calvert’s 15,523 voters were Democrats, 24.6% were Republican, and 5.5% were “Other.” When registration closed on October 18, 2010, the corresponding figures showed Democrats are 41.2% of our 56,300 voters, the GOP represents 39.9%, and “Others” comprise 18.9%. Except for a 45-month period of Republican malaise and Obama ascendancy, roughly from August 2006 to
Thursday, December-2010
tors. The only certainty is that the pendulum will swing the other way some day. Finally, in December, for the first time in history, all members of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) will be Republican with the election of three GOP newcomers: Evan Slaughenhoupt, Steve Weems, and Pat Nutter joining incumbents Susan Shaw and Gerald “Gerry” Clark. But this is not the first instance of a one-party monopoly of the BOCC. From 1966 to 1986 when Joyce Lyons Terhes was elected, all members of the BOCC were Democrats. Jay Lounsbury Dunkirk, MD
Dinner to Honor Parran
Southern Calvert Gazette P. O. Box 250 . Hollywood, MD 20636
Southern Calvert Gazette is a bi-weekly newspaper providing news and information for the residents of Southern Calvert County. The Southern Calvert Gazette will be available on newsstands every other Thursday of the month. The paper is published by Southern Maryland Publishing Company, which is responsible for the form, content, and policies of the newspaper. Southern Calvert Gazette does not espouse any political belief or endorse any product or service in its news coverage. Articles and letters submitted for publication must be signed and may be edited for length or content. Southern Calvert Gazette is not responsible for any claims made by its advertisers.
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May 2010, the Calvert GOP’s three-decade progress toward electoral parity in our county has been fairly steady. Political balance and equality is usually good for citizens. It’s debatable how much of the Republican growth is a result of party actions and candidates and how much can be attributed to demographics, such as new people moving in, or other fac-
Commissioner President Wilson Parran is being honored for his years of service to Calvert County at a buffet dinner at Rod ‘N’ Reel Restaurant on Sunday, Dec. 12 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. The event is being hosted by the Calvert County Concerned Black Men, the Calvert County Concerned Black Women, the Minority Business Alliance, the National Congress of Black Women and the NAACP. Tickets are $45.00 per person. Checks should be made payable to
CBW/Wilson and mailed to P.O. Box 97, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732. The deadline for reservations is December 6. Tickets will not be mailed, but instead can be picked up at the door on the afternoon of the event. For information, please contact Annette Funn by calling (301) 812-1117 or by emailing annefunn@prodigy.net. Chris Reynolds Calvert County Democratic Party Chair
Toys For Tots Has Extra Need This Year
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he weak economy continues taking its toll on our nation – and our area. As a result, fewer families may be able to have a very merry Christmas. Jerry Kepich , a Navy Reservist, is the coordinator for Calvert and Charles counties for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. He says in order to reach their goal of two toys per child; they will need to collect three times as many toys as last year. “This is just our second year for Toys for Tots in Calvert County,” Kepich said. “What’s happening is that we’re getting a lot more requests this year because of the economy. Word is getting out. Social servic-
Many Girl Scout, Boy Scout Troops and Young Marines in the area also help.
es end their program Oct. 15, and churches and other groups are getting the word that maybe we can help. So our goal is to collect 5,000 toys this year, just for Calvert.” “What we normally don’t get enough of is toys for older children,” Kepich says. “So I hope people will keep this in mind when they shop for Toys for Tots. And maybe even give a monetary donation so we can fill in the ages where needed.” Kepich says last year, Toys for Tots made Christmas merry and bright for about 150 families in Calvert County. They had an average of three children per family, so toys were provided for about 450 kids. However, they will need about three times that many this year, probably around 1,500. To receive toys, families have to be pre-registered. They can call Kepich di-
rectly or fill out the online request for toy donations at their Web site: www.calverttoysfortots.com. Families fill out the form online which will be emailed it to him, and he forwards to social services. Families can go to any public library if they don’t have online access and get help. Those interested in helping can give new, unwrapped toys or donate money through the Web site. Kepich says this is the best and fastest option, because, “It is deposited directly into our account – no holds on checks and if someone gives us cash, we have to go get money orders then send it in so there’s a lag. So we’re hoping that people will use our secure web site this year to give – especially at the last minute.” The cut-off date for toy donations is Friday, Dec. 17. “What I want to stress to people is that although Toys for Tots is a national campaign, what you give stays local,” Kepich says. “What’s donated in Calvert County stays in Calvert County. It’s not sent up nationally, and that’s really important for people to know.” “We don’t get a lot of big donations,” Kepich says. “But the biggest part is just the $10 here, $20 there that all really adds up. A lot of the funding comes from these small donations. I think in all of Calvert last year, we collected $700 in cash. And we can only spend a maximum of $30 per toy. I know a lot of the donors spent much more than NJROTC programs at local high schools are also collecting toys. that on each toy last year. But we accept all toys, regardless of price, and then can offer a wide range for the kids.” Major drop-off spots include all fire departments, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Department, all World Gyms, Fastop and Sneade’s Ace hardware stores. Kepich says there are 80 plus other drop-off spots, all listed on the Web site: www.calverttoysfortots.com, where businesses can also sign up to be an additional location. NJROTC programs at local high schools are also collecting toys. Many Girl Scout, Boy Scout Troops and Young Marines in the area also help. In addition, the Toys for Tots campaign gets an outpouring of community help. “U-Haul donated trucks again for two months. And portable storage units are donated to us – Friendly Self-Storage in Owings donated again this year. The cost of things like this is huge for us and a real help because with a charity, the funding we get should go toward purchasing toys and not overhead costs. So corporate sponsors like this are a huge help,” Kepich adds. By Diane Burr (CC) info@somdpublishing. net
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Over 250,000 Southern Marylanders can’t be wrong!
Thursday, December-2010
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Johnson Bright, 56 J o h n son Sylvester Bright, 56, of Port Republic, MD passed away on November 26, 2010 at his residence. J o h n son Sylvester Bright, affe c t io n a t el y known as “Jaybee”, was born on April 24, 1954 in Island Creek, Maryland to Charlotte and the late John W. Bright, Sr. He gently departed this earthly realm, on the morning of November 26, 2010. Jaybee was educated in the Calvert County Public School System. He joined Brooks United Methodist Church as a youth. During Rev. Kay Albury’s tenure, he rededicated his life to Christ. He often attended services at the Church of God in Port Republic, MD. Jaybee was also an active member of the Sons of the Legion, Post 220. Jaybee did various jobs as a skilled carpentry laborer, and carpet installer. He loved to spend time with his family and took great pride in being the coordinator for Christmas Dinner. Jaybee often did not have a driver’s license, but he managed to get to his destinations if he had to “Ride, Walk, or Fly”… Jaybee lived his life as though each day were his last. He enjoyed having a good time and made sure everyone around him was also enjoying themselves. Jaybee was an honest man that told you the truth, good or bad. He also had a good heart and could often be seen directing parking for various functions at the church. He was preceded in death by his father, John W. Bright, Sr., grandson Kelly Bright, Jr., and sister, Alice Barnes. Jaybee leaves to mourn his memory, his mother, Charlotte Bright; a son, Kelly Bright, Sr.; a daughter, Kim Bright-Parks (Joseph); a stepdaughter, Tobi Collins; four granddaughters, Erica Boatman, Erishala Boatman, Danielle Shannon and LaTwon Privott; a great-grandson, Kortez Butler; two sisters, Sarah Brown (Clemente) and Cynthia Coates (Edward); Seven brothers, Melvin, James (Katrina), Franklin, Dean (Susan), Don, Howard, and Mark (Renee); brother-in-law, Donald Lee Barnes; Eight Aunts, Roberta Andrews, Iris Harris, Mabel, Mazie, Ellen, Josephine, Sylvia Jean and Marie Johnson; Five Uncles, Enoch and Wilson Johnson, John Brooks, Sidney Andrews, and Ford Harris, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousin, and friends. He also leaves very devoted friends, Charles Elliott, Lester Sewell, Floyd Height, Jr., Pauline Chase, Mary Hawkins, and all of his friends on “the hill”. Funeral service was held on Friday, December 3, 2010 at 11:00 AM at Brooks
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UM Church, St. Leonard, MD with Pastor Jason L. Robinson officiating. The interment was at Brooks UM Church Cemetery, St. Leonard, MD. The pallbearers were Shavenson Johnson, Donald Barnes, Gary Bourne, Avan Smith, Vincent Savoy, and Dereck Barnes. The honorary pallbearers were Charles Elliott, Abel Johnson, Lester Sewell, Charles Gross, Thomas Broome, Murray Claggett, and Floyd Height, Jr. Funeral arrangements provided by Sewell Funeral Home, Prince Frederick, MD.
Edward Coates,83 Mr. Edward (Eddie) Coates, 83, of Huntingtown, MD departed this life on November 10, 2010 at Southern Maryland Hospital after a long illness. Eddie was born December 7, 1926 to the late Charles and Alice Coates who preceded him in death. Eddie attended Young’s Elementary School in Huntingtown Maryland. Eddie was united in marriage on March 1948 to Sarah C. Brown. To this union three (3) children were added; Diane, Loraine and Edward, Jr. Eddie later divorced and had years of friendship, with Minnie Stepney. He worked for the Maryland Department of Transportation as a Truck Driver and retired in 1979. After his retirement Eddie was affectionately known in the community as “Mr. Purple Head”. During Mr. Purple Head’s ice-cream years, his sons and daughters took time to work with him; each gathering his/her fond memories. His favorite employee was his granddaughter Porscha who begin working on the truck strapped in her toddler seat. Whether at the Ball -Park or one of the many neighbor hoods he visited, a crowd gather for their favorite ice cream treat along with having the opportunity to share with someone who brought joy to their community. During the late 80’s Eddie rededicated himself and accepted Jesus Christ as Lord of his life. He began a new journey serving Christ and grew in his commitment of being the earthly father Christ called him to be. He began his fellowship with Bishop White of Salvation Free in Washington, D.C. and later united with Patuxent United Methodist Church, Huntingtown Maryland. When he could no longer drive his ice-cream truck before becoming a patient at Clinton and Prince Frederick nursing facilities, he resided in the homes of his sons and daughters. Robin the youngest and
Thursday, December-2010
Kim Mitchell were his caregivers. He was spoiled by all of them; being great cooks each brought his favorite dish upon his request for lunch and dinner. The Sons had the job of ensuring the shaving and hair cuts were timely and right. Eddie had a great sense of humor, was no nonsense and enjoyed time spent with his children and grandchildren. You could tell the love he had for Troy and Tracy as they were often the center of his conversation. How grateful his Sons are that he took the time a year ago to share his wisdom and give instruction on being God fearing men. We praise God for technology that though he was not able to attend church he was able to listen to sermons and healing scriptures through-out his illness, affording him to hold on to his faith and God’s unchanging hands. Eddie was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Alice Coates, Sisters Belinda Coates and Mary Jenkins; brothers Charles, Willie, Carrie and Thurman Coates, he leaves to cherish his memories; Sister: Lorita Coates, Sons: Edward Jr., Stevie Stepney, Kim Stepney (Glenda); Daughters: Diane Kyler-Pierce, Lorraine Williams, Deborah Stepney, Sherry Evans (Gary), Barbara Rollocks (Michael)Robin Sweetney(Thomas); 5 Step-Children: Edward Stepney(Carol) Brenda Stepney, Joanne Brooks,(Isaac) Donald Stepney and Vegina Torney (Michael), a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, family and friends. Funeral service was held on Saturday, November 20, 2010 at 11:00 AM at Dunkirk Baptist Church, Dunkirk, MD with Bishop Darnell Easton, eulogist. The interment was at Patuxent UM Church Cemetery, Huntingtown, MD. The pallbearers were Timothy Boots, Marcus Chase, Donald Stepney, Linwood Thomas, Levi Watkins, and Troy White. The honorary pallbearers were Thomas Sweetney, Terry Williams, and Tim Williams. Funeral arrangements provided by Sewell Funeral Home, Prince Frederick, MD.
Francis Davis, 77 Francis Warren Davis, 77, of Lusby, MD, formally of Princeton, NJ passed away on November 7, 2010 at St. Mary’s Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Leonardtown, MD. He was born on December 23, 1932 in Deatsville, AL to the late Flora Clark Davis and Bob Davis.
He was the loving husband of Elizabeth Nelson Davis whom he married on January 9, 1981. Warren attended the Stark University Military School in Montgomery, AL from 1946 to 1951 when he graduated as a Cadet Lieutenant Colonel. Warren joined the U. S. Navy on January 20, 1950 and was ordered to report to active duty on October 21, 1951. He was stationed at USNTC, Bainbridge, MD; NATTC, USNAS, Jacksonville, FL; USNATTC, Memphis, TN; USNAAS, Saufley Field, Pensacola, FL. On December 22, 1953 he was released from active duty. In 1954 Warren attended Huntington College, Montgomery, AL where he was named to the Who’s Who of College Seniors. He was a Fencing Master and a History Major. He graduated in 1957. After graduation Warren started his career with IBM where he was a Systems Engineer. In 1968 Warren enrolled in Harvard University School of Business. He graduated in 1970. Warren retired from IBM after thirty years of employment in 1987. In 1989 Warren and Elizabeth moved from Rockville, MD and relocated to Lusby, MD. He was a member of the Princeton Ski Club, Princeton, NJ; Mensa International; Solomon’s Island Yacht Club, Solomons, MD; Southern Maryland Sailing Association; Son’s of the American Revolutions; Son’s of the Confederate and the American Legion, Post 274, Lusby, MD. Warren was preceded in death by his parent’s and brother Eldon Davis. He is survived by his beloved wife Elizabeth Nelson Davis of Lusby, MD; children Francis Warren Davis, Jr. of AL and Louis Berkstresser Davis of AL; sister LaVern Ramsey and her husband Bill of Birmingham, AL; brother Ronald Davis and his wife Linda of Wetumpka, AL; motherin-law Marion Nelson of Solomons, MD; brother-in-laws Joel Nelson and his wife Joyce of Wolfboro, NH and David Nelson of Hamilton, NJ; four nieces Kathrine, Seron, Haley and Kiera; four nephews Richard, Eric, Peter and Cole and his faithful companion Heidi. Visitation and memorial services were held on Dec. 3 at Rausch Funeral Home, Lusby. Memorial contributions in Davis’s name can be made to the St. Mary’s Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 21585 Peabody St. Leonardtown, MD 20650
James Dorsey, 89 James Clinton Dorsey, 89, of Prince Frederick, MD, passed away December 4, 2010 at his home with his family by his side. He was born on June 8, 1921 in Port Republic, MD to the late James Somerset Dorsey and Sally Fowler. Clinton served in the army during World War II. A lifelong resident of Calvert County, he retired from the auto business in 1983. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Bill Dorsey. Clinton is survived by his wife Ethel
Dorsey of Prince Frederick, MD; children Larry Dorsey of Arlington, VA, Gloria DeBolt of Hughesville, MD, Sandra Archer of Salisbury, NC, and Douglas Dorsey of St. Leonards, MD; sister Mattie Burch of Toana, VA. He is also survived by grandchildren Melissa Carnes, Roy Archer, III, Christy Roll, and Tara Johnson; greatgrandchildren Savannah and Kylee Roll and James Johnson. The family received friends on Tuesday, December 7, 2010 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM in the Rausch Funeral Home, Port Republic, MD. Service was held on Wednesday December 8, 2010 at 11:00 AM in Christ Church, Port Republic, MD with The Rev. John E. Howanstine officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were be Kevin Denton, Brook Gray, Don Johnson, Michael Lund, Don Novak, and Robert Sweeney. Contributions in memory of James Clinton Dorsey can be made to Calvert Hospice, PO Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 or Potomac Cairn Terrier Club Rescue, c/o Will Flory, PCTC Treasurer, 12255 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA 22701. Arrangements provided by Rausch Funeral Home, Port Republic, MD.
Juanita Edger, 58 Juanita Lee “Nita” Edger, 58, of Huntingtown, passed away November 26, 2010 at her residence. Nita was born September 6, 1952 in Ft. Worth, TX to Edison and Edith Norma
(Gambrell) Estill. She moved with her family to the Washington area when she was a young girl. Nita attended Prince George’s County public schools and graduated from Suitland High School in 1970. She married her high school sweetheart, Jeffrey Lee Edger, on January 3, 1975 in New Carrolton, MD. They have resided in Calvert County since 1985. Nita was employed as an accountant for the Safeway grocery store chain and most recently a worked as a clerk at Bowen’s Market in Huntingtown. In her leisure time she enjoyed crafting, particularly with dried flowers, gardening and shopping with friends. Her greatest pleasure came from being with family, especially her grandchildren, and with her many friends. Nita is survived by her husband Jeff L. Edger, a daughter Shawna Lee Edger and her companion Steve DeYoung, and a son Ryan J. Edger and his wife Erin, all of St. Leonard, MD; grandchildren Darren W. Boggs, Tessa M. Edger and Dylan R. Edger, and a grand-daughter due in February 2011 and a brother Barry Estill and his wife Versalee of Laurel, MD.
Visitation and funeral services were held on Dec. 1 at Rausch Funeral Home, Owings. Memorial contributions in Edger’s name can be made to Calvert Hospice, P.O. Box 838 Prince Frederick, MD 20678 or online at: www.calverthospice.org.
Lee Minin, 79 Lee Raymond Minin, 79, of Solomons, MD, formerly of Alexandria, VA passed away on November 29, 2010 in Prince Frederick, MD. He was born on April 4, 1931 in Franklin, PA to the late Emma Jane Borland and John Abraham Minin. Lee married Lorraine Post which ended in divorce, after his divorce he married his beloved wife April Minin in Queens Village, NY. Lee graduated from Franklin High School in 1949 and went on to graduate from Tri State College in Angola, IN in 1952. Lee began his career working for Goodyear Aerospace in Akron, OH as an Electrical Design Engineer on Navy blimps. He then became the support contractor for SUBROC, continuing to work on that program as a NAVSEA employee. As he advanced in his career he became the Deputy Program Manager and was instrumental in the success of HARPOON, the Norwegian Penguin Weapon System and the release, operation, and support of the Tomahawk Missile. His profound efforts have contributed greatly to our national security over his many years in federal service. He retired in 2006 after 38 years of service. Lee belonged to the Sons of the American Legion, NARFE, St. Paul United Methodist Church, and the Academy of Model Aeronautics. His favorite hobby was radio controlled model airplanes. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Virginia and Jackie Minin. Lee is survived by his wife April Minin of Solomons, MD; children, John Minin of Sugarland, TX, Kenneth Minin of Cabot, AR, Ronald Minin of Spring, TX, and Jennifer Minin of Solomons, MD; seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. The family received friends on Wednesday, December 1, 2010 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM in the Rausch Funeral Home Chapel, Lusby, MD. Funeral Services were held on Thursday, December 2, 2010 at 11 AM in St. Paul United Methodist Church, Lusby, MD with Rev. Ron Collier officiating. Interment was on Saturday, December 4, 2010 at 11 AM in Franklin Cemetery,
Franklin, PA.
Anna Elizabeth Reimer, 76 A n n a Elizabeth Reimer, 76 of St. Leonard, passed away on November 27, 2010 at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C. Anna was born on December 8, 1933 in New Brunswick, NJ to John and Anna Papp of South River, NJ. Anna as an infant had a special roommate that shared the nursery with her. They both shared the same year, month, and day of birth. Both were born in the same hospital and their mothers shared the same hospital room after giving birth. This special roommate would turn out to be Eugene Thomas Reimer, who would turn out to be her future husband, so they knew each other from day one. Anna enjoyed many hobbies such as gardening and decorating the home for the Holidays. But most of all she was an avid photographer and Civil War enthusiast. She studied the Civil War extensively and played a civilian in the movie “Gods and Generals” and was invited to attend the premier in Richmond, Virginia. She also traveled from Maryland to New Mexico to see Civil War Battlefields and Plantations. While on these adventures she would take thousands of pictures to document the battlefields, and other
Civil War historical locations. She was so true to the era that she adorn her front lawn with a field artillery gun and a 12lb. Confederate Napoleon Cannon. Anna was predeceased by both her parents. She is survived by her husband Eugene T. Reimer, and her children Eugene T. Reimer, Jr. and wife Susan of Yorktown, VA, Robert C. Reimer of Mount Holly, NC, Donald C. Reimer of St. Leonard, MD, Tinamarie Reimer of Washington, Diann Mishou and husband Gary of St. Leonard, MD, John J. Reimer and wife Justine of Lusby, MD, Leslie R. Bollinger and husband Steve of Leesburg, Fl, Frederick W. Reimer and wife Patty of Boca Raton, Fl, Neil A. Reimer of Prince Frederick, MD. She is also survived by her grandchildren Michael and Lauren Reimer of Yorktown, VA, Robert Jr. and Geoffrey Reimer of Mt. Holly, NC, Gary Jr., Kyle, and Jacob Mishou of St. Leonard, MD, Rachael and Rebecca Reimer of Lusby, MD, Steven Jr. and Daniel Bollinger of Leesburg, FL, and Frederick Reimer Jr. of Boca Raton, FL, and her great grandchildren Hayden Reimer of Uncasville, CT, and Kole Mishou of St. Leonard, MD. , and her twin sister Marie Virgili of NJ. The family received friends on Thursday, December 2, 2010 at the Rausch Funeral Home, Port Republic. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday December 3, 2010, at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Solomons. Interment will be held in Arlington National Cemetery, at 10 A.M. on January 4, 2011. Contributions in Anna’s name made be made to the Civil War Preservation Trust 1156 15th St. NW, Suite 900, Washington D.C. 20005.
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Thursday, December-2010
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STATE NEWS Congratulations to Calvert’s Newest Eagle Scouts
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ecently I had the honor of attending what I consider to be very important events at two local churches on successive days in Calvert County. The events were held by two local Boy Scouts of America, Troop 407 and Troop 427. The Delegate Tony O’Donnell District 29C Calvert and St. Mary’s events were Eagle Scout Courts of Honor, where senior scouts receive scouting’s highest award and certification as an Eagle Scout. On Friday night, Nov. 26, at Waters United Methodist Church on Mackall Road in St. Leonard, Robert Leo Draham was elevated to Eagle Scout as a member of Boy Scout Troop #407. The next day, Saturday Nov. 27, Stephen Robert Gedridge was similarly elevated to the rank of Eagle Scout as a member of Troop #427 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Solomons. Both events were well attended and dignified in their ceremony with public officials, family, friends and community members in attendance to honor the achievement of Calvert County’s two newest Eagle Scouts. The achievement of Eagle Scout is the culmination of a lot of work and many years of dedication on the part of the scout, his family, his adult leaders and mentors, and his troop. It comes only after earning a requisite number of merit badges over the years, demonstrated leadership capability in the troop, examination and certification by the sanctioning authorities, and of course a project in the community to demonstrate adequate public service. Less than 2% of all young men who enter scouting ever achieve the rank and honor of being called an Eagle Scout. I have had the pleasure of attending dozens of these ceremonies over the years in both Calvert and St. Mary’s counties. Some of the earliest Eagle Scouts I had the honor of recognizing as a state delegate are now in their mid- thirties and some are raising their own families. There is no doubt in my mind that their experiences in scouting and achieving Eagle Scout will be remembered and impact their entire lives in many positive ways. Due to scheduling conflicts over the years, I have had to miss some of these events, but even in those cases, I tried to send a congratulatory note and recognition of some sort. The achievement of positive things by our youth is something that all of us should try to do as often as is reasonably possible. At a time when the news, both print and broadcast, is full of the sensational and usually negative things going on with some of our youth today, I am always reminded at events like Eagle Scout Courts of Honor and other youth and student recognition ceremonies that there are many very good and positive things going on with young people today that don’t always grab the headlines or make the news. Take the opportunity to attend an Eagle Scout Court of Honor sometime, and you will see exactly what I am talking about. To Robert Draham of Troop #407 and Stephen Gedridge of Troop # 427 and all other Eagle Scouts out there, congratulations for a job well done! As always, feel free to contact my local legislative office at (410) 326-0081 or email at anthony.odonnell@house.state.md.us with questions, comments or concerns regarding these items or other matters.
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Thursday, December-2010
Program Collects Millions of Oyster Shells
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or the past year, the Oyster Shell Recycling Alliance has collected oyster shells from restaurants, caterers and seafood wholesalers in an effort to restore the dwindling oyster population in the Chesapeake Bay. The program has collected nearly 2 million individual oyster shells in its inaugural year that could help to plant more than 20 million oysters back into the bay over the next year. Instead of allowing thousands of oyster shells to be thrown away, the Oyster Recovery Partnership started the alliance in 2008 to help recover the precious commodity. “Oyster shells are a limited natural resource that provide a place for new oysters to grow on,” said Stephan Abel, executive director of the Oyster Recovery Partnership, who also emphasized the importance of oyster shells providing habitat for other marine wildlife such as blue crabs and fish. The alliance is made up of 50 establishments from Maryland, Virginia and D.C. that collect a minimum of five, 32-gallon containers of cleaned shells to be picked up regularly by the partnership, Abel said. Old Ebbitt Grill, a district restaurant, started donating its shells in 2007 before there was a formal recovery program. They initially donated 50,000 oyster shells from their annual Oyster Riot event. Since then, staffers from the partnership collect used shells from the restaurant on a weekly basis. Old Ebbitt Grill sells an average of 3,000 oysters per day, said Christian Guidi, general manager of the restaurant. In the last nine months, Abel said alliance membership has doubled because restaurants have benefited from the program, not only by becoming sustain-
able businesses and saving money on trash costs, but because they care about restoring a species that can help clean up the bay. “It was natural for us to partner (with the program) and give back to a resource that has given so much to us,” Guidi said. Guidi said oysters are an asset to the bay because they act as “nature’s filtration system,” clearing harmful algae and sediment from the water. A single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water a day, said Bryan Kent Gomes, who provides education and outreach for the Oyster Recovery Partnership. After the shells are collected from establishments, they are delivered to Horn Point Lab Hatchery in Cambridge, which is operated by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Sciences, Abel said. A year later, oyster larvae are added to tanks where they can attach to shells and mature into spat, which are then planted into safe and strategic locations in the bay. “Through all these efforts, I think we can restore the oyster population in the Chesapeake Bay,” said Michael Rubino, aquaculture program manager of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a partner of the program. More than 85 percent of historic oyster reefs have been lost globally and 99 percent have been lost in the bay, said Rubino, who noted this effort as a good start in a long process. “As much as it’s good to get shell, we are really trying to raise awareness of the issue,” Abel said. Since 2000, the partnership has planted more than 2.5 billion oysters on 1,400 acres of oyster reef in the bay. By Nicole Dao (Capital News Service)
State Launches Chesapeake Conservation Corps
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s a young girl, Carmera Thomas spent her summers swimming in the Severn River and eating fresh blue crabs. Now, the deteriorating health of the Chesapeake Bay has spurred her to take action. Thomas joined the Chesapeake Conservation Corps in hopes of restoring the bay back to what it once was, so that future generations may have those same experiences. The Chesapeake Bay Trust started the Chesapeake Conservation Corps to provide young adults with service opportunities and green job training through environmental and energy conservation projects. Gov. Martin O’Malley signed the program into law earlier this year as part of President Obama’s Chesapeake Bay Executive Order, a plan to restore and protect the bay and its watershed. The program partners Thomas, along with 15 other adults between the ages of 18 and 25, with one of 16 organizations statewide for a year. The organizations range from the state’s Department of Natural Resources to non-profits like the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, which Thomas will be working with. “We tried to match as best we could the interests of the volunteers with the needs of the host organizations,” said Allen Hance, executive director of the Chesapeake Bay Trust. While the program is full-time volunteer work, each corps member will receive a $16,000 stipend plus health benefits and travel costs. Volunteers will work on energy efficiency programs, water quality monitoring, reforestation, job training and other projects, Hance said. “It’s a great opportunity to infuse youthful energy into key organizations across the state that is really going to expand the ability of those organizations to do their work,” Hance added. Thomas’ work with the foundation will involve restoration work and other projects, said Marcy Damon, the grassroots restoration coordinator of the Bay Foundation.
“Her main interest is in restoration so this (program) will give her a real-life outdoor restoration experience,” Damon said. Thomas, 22, of Glen Burnie, said her interest in the environment began in a high school biology class, which later translated into her major in college. In the future, she hopes to earn a master’s degree in environmental science. Some of Thomas’ projects focus on oyster restoration, including oyster gardening workshops, reef ball construction, and transporting oysters onto sanctuaries. She will also be working with the foundation’s Farm Stewardship Program planting trees as stream buffers in Frederick and Washington counties. Along with these projects, the foundation will also help Thomas with job hunting. “We will also be helping Carmera at the end of her year-long tenure here to network to see what other job possibilities there might be,” Damon said. Damon said the program will expose volunteers to what’s going on in the bay, and as a result, the volunteers will help educate the public. “It’s a leadership development program, and so we want, through their exposure to this set of very highquality organizations, to learn about environmental leadership,” Hance said. Thomas feels it is important to educate citizens about the bay’s issues, especially today’s youth. She hopes younger generations will teach their parents about the importance of restoring the bay. More than two weeks into the program, Thomas said she is enjoying the hands-on work. So far she has helped to winterize crops at Clagett Farm in Upper Marlboro and painted boats at the foundation’s Oyster Restoration Center in Shady Side. “I’m interested in saving the planet,” Thomas said. “That’s really corny, but I think it’s cool to be a part of preserving something that people are going to be experiencing the rest of their lives.” By Nicole Dao (Capital News Service)
Spotlight On
Learn About Careers at NAS Pax River
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epresentatives from the Naval Air Station Patuxent River will be at Leonardtown High School auditorium on Tuesday, Dec. 14 starting at 6 p.m. to address the community on student employment, Navy scholarship programs, local education pathways, and cooperative education among other pertinent topics for students. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. Also, the due date for resumes to be uploaded in the NAVAIR Jobs website is Feb. 1, 2011 at jobs.navair.navy. mil. Students are encouraged to include their GPA and any STEM related extracurricular activities (robotics, physics club, etc) on their resume. Graduating seniors will be most competitive but NAVAIR does hire a few outstanding juniors each year, according to Karen M. Lane, NAVAIR Education Partnership Coordinator.
Local Girl Giving the Gift of Warmth
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Calvert Students Receive AP Scholar Awards
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he College Board gave 416 awards to Calvert County public high school students in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program (AP) Exams. One-hundred seventy four (174) students earned the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with grades of 3, 4 or 5. Seventy four (74) students qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on a five-point scale on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. One hundred thirty seven (137) students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. Thirty one (31) students qualified for the National AP Scholar Award by earning an average grade of 4 or higher on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams. According to the College Board website, the AP Program offers students the opportunity to take challenging, college-level courses while still in high school and to receive college credit, advanced placement credit in college, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. Students took the AP exams in May 2010 after completing AP courses in their Calvert County public high schools.
Jason Mayer, Garrett Alston, Jordan Goldstein, Elizabeth Meiser, Chantelle Beachum, Diane Greaves, Bryan Miller, Kayla Belote, Anastasia Hamilton, Gordon Muldoon, Samantha Bitzelberger, Eric Hansen, Victoria Patterson, Kristine Bizzarro, Joshua Howe, Rebecca Portillo, Victoria Bolles Daniel Huff, Brittany Pressley, Reece Bomhold, Michael Jaffee, Jacquelyn Reimel, Jonathan Burger, Jennifer Kleponis, Brittaney Sikorski, Rachel Campbell, Justin Koper, Heather Slavings, James Courtney, Hallie Kroll, Eric Spindler, Samantha Dameron, Elizabeth Lake, Kathryn Stout, Connor Davies, Rachel Landale, Claire Strayer, Ashley DowellWerner, Scott Lauver, Noelle Swann, Emma File, Kaitlynn Lloyd, Christopher Taylor, Raquel FloresJuarbe, Caitlin Madera, Quinn Trudo, Eric Gaines, Maria Matthews and Alexandra Williams, Scholar with Honor: Michelle Denny, Emily Illar, Jenna McGreevy, Jacqueline Heaney Chelsea Kahn-Deere, Nicholas Mosquera, Jordan Hollady, Seana Keen, Courtney Parkes, Katherine Huseman, Melissa Linehan, Thomas Volpe and Brittany Young. Scholar with Distinction: Alexis Balinski, Kieran Kelly, Thomas Scott, Emily Baranoski, Michael Killius, Amanda Shegogue, Alexander Barton, Gregory King, Aaron Sherrin, Nicholas Byrne, Kelsey Kreider, Emily Sikorski, Corey Chaconas, Colleen McDougall, H. Taylor Simpson, Joseph Cox, Sydney Morgan, Melanie Stangl, Katrina Godfrey, Michelle Morin, Lauren Trollinger, Zachary Hammer, Jacob Oster, Lauren Tucker, Daniel Hudson, Molly Rozran and Joshua Weeks. National Scholar: Kelsey Kreider, Sydney Morgan, Thomas Scott and Melanie Stangl.
milie Altorfer, a middle school student attending Southern Middle School in Lusby, is making sure needy people have warm hands and feet during the cold months ahead through Project Warm Hearts. With the permission of Jack Smith and the assistance of her mother, Altorfer has been putting collection boxes in five schools in Calvert County, as well as their church. The project is a part of Altorfer’s good works project for the Young Women in Excellence through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. “We needed it to be manageable for a 13-year-old,” said Stella Altorfer, a teacher at Mutual Elementary School and Emilie’s mother. The awards recipients for Patuxent High Emilie said she thought of collecting for Project Warm Hearts beSchool were: cause her mother told her about students who came to school without Scholar: Michael Adams, Benjamin Ganoe, socks or gloves and she wanted to help them and other people in their position. In addition to what she heard form her mother, Emilie said she had bringing bags of items in and leaving them in the school office. noticed that people collect coats and bigger items, but there are not many Collection points include St. Leonard Elementary School, Calvert High School, Southcollections for gloves and socks. “No one really remembers the gloves and socks. It’s also a necessity,” Emilie said. ern Middle School and Mutual Elementary School in Calvert County, as well as the Church “I’m really excited … It makes me feel like I’m really doing something for the community.” of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Sunderland. Donations are now being accepted and Emilie has contacted places like Fruit of the Loom and Haynes for donations, but items must either be new or gently used. By Sarah Miller (CT) info@somdpublishing.net hasn’t heard back form them. She said even before the boxes were put out, there were people
Thursday, December-2010
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On the
Water By Sherrod Sturrock
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t’s December. Again. Thanksgiving is behind us; Christmas and all that word conjures up looms before us. The tree has been put up in the lobby and the lights strung. Tomorrow night the staff and volunteers will gather to decorate and share chili and good cheer to officially kick off the season. The Solomons Christmas Walk kicked off the season complete with local musical entertainment, cookies, crafts, and of course Santa and the Otter. We are into THE SEASON. So, what’s a marine museum got to do with the holidays? Well, quite a bit when you think about it. Most obviously, we have a fantastic Museum Store that has the coolest gifts you can imagine. I bought these gorgeous hunks of soap that look for all the world like semi precious stones hewn out of the earth, but smelling much better: perfect sister-in-law, teacher, or hostess gifts. I got a fossil hunter kit with a book by a local
Membership is the Gift That Keeps on Giving author for my nephew and a beautiful and unique necklace for my 20 something niece. But if you want a gift that keeps on giving, consider giving a family membership to the museum. That’s a way of wrapping up a year’s worth of experiences and memories for your children or grandchildren. What could be better than that? The other way that the museum gets involved in the holidays is by providing the perfect place for you to bring all those out of town guests who descend on your house. Why fight the crowds at the Smithsonian when you can have a great time locally, without the traffic or parking hassle, at a fraction of the cost? We offer special public programming every day of the school holiday, so it’s a good place to bring the kids coming down off the Christmas high. Dad can groove on the engines and boats, the youngsters love the otters, fish, and stingrays, fossil fanatics will have a blast with our fossil collection, and history buffs have plenty
to sink their minds into. We would love to show you all the reasons that it’s a good time to visit. Whether you come frequently, or haven’t been for years, there is always something new to experience. It’s been quiet here the last few weeks. While it’s good to catch our collective breath after the frenetic activity of the summer, I prefer seeing the museum humming with activity. It’s a place that needs people to feel alive – your interest, curiosity, enthusiasm, and wonder are what animate the artifacts. They wait for you – like the scene in Night at the Museum – they long to come to life through your imagination. Please, don’t keep us waiting. We need you to fulfill our mission in life. So this holiday, add a visit to the museum to your list. Let us “gift” each other.
Sherrod Sturrock is the Deputy Director of the Calvert Marine Museum. Send comments to: sturrosa@co.cal.md.us.
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!"#$%&'()*% +,-,,%'./.— 0-,,%"./.% !"#$%"#&'"(#")"%*#+$*# ",-"'.#/"-"01"%#23# !"#4566#-6&7"#$.#89::#';0;# &(#/"-"01"%#2<#
B"C@6$%#$+05775&(#$''65"7#$(+#$++5.5&($6#D""7#0$*#1"#-A$%C"+;# E575.#.A"#4"175."#$.#444;-$6)"%.0$%5("0@7"@0;-&0# 1#2$#32'*4%&#5#/6#7%88%% Gingerbread Lighthouse Workshop 889::#$;0;#$(+#29::#';0;# Back by popular demand! Join our “elves” as we make lighthouses out of candy. There is a $2 materials fee. Sign up early at the admissions desk as space is limited. 9:;732'*4%&#5#/6#7%8<% Ornament Workshop 889::#$;0;#29::#';0;#$(+#=9::#';0;# Make a little something extra for your tree! Each workshop will be making a different ornament. $2 per child donation requested. Sign up early at the admissions desk as space is limited! =>$2'*4%&#5#/6#7%8?%% Horseshoe Crabs: Survival of the Fittest Join an interpreter in the Discovery Room for a hands-on look at these fascinating survivors. Touch these animals that have been around since before the dinosaurs and also explore a model showing their inner anatomy. Free with museum admission, fifteen minute programs starting on the top of every hour from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Drum Point Lighthouse 20
Thursday, December-2010
9;#32'*4%&#5#/6#7%8@% Aqua Invaders: The Game 89::#';0;#$(+#=9::#';0;## Join in the fun in the auditorium for an interactive view of how well meaning people can spread invasive species around their neighborhoods. Free with museum admission.
1#2$#32'*4%&#5#/6#7%8E Jellyfish! Join an interpreter at the sea nettle exhibit to take a close look at why these planktonic animals do what they do and how they do it. Free with admission, fifteen minute programs starting on the top of every hour from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. 9:;732'*4%&#5#/6#7%<,%% Seahorses! Join an interpreter by the Seahorse exhibit to get a look at these fascinating creatures. Explore their habitat, their relatives, and why there are so few of them left. Free with museum admission, fifteen minute programs starting on the top of every hour from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. F7(2'*4%&#5#/6#7%<+% Oysters! Meet “Rock E. Feller” the oyster. Join a museum interpreter at our oyster reef exhibit to discuss and get a hands-on feel of oysters with “Rock E. Feller” , our own handmade oyster model. We'll talk habitat and take Rock E. apart to learn all about the things that make oysters such a great addition to our ecosystem - and our menus. Fifteen-minute program starting on the !"#$%&'%(#))#*+& top of every hour from & 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. !"#$%&'$()"*+$(),-..-%&$ Free with museum (&)$/'+$%&'$01-*)$2344$ admission.
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CLASSIFIEDS Real Estate Estate sale in White Sands Subdivision. 2 bed 2 bath log cabin. 1+ acres. Property sold as is. Tax Assessed Value for this year 2010 is $160,862. Best buy investment property or first time homebuyer. Call Karen @ 240.538.7499 or email us at WesAndKarenDodson@Gmail.Com
This Estate home sits on a peaceful cul-de-sac. It has 3 spacious Bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Our ìDifferent by Designî home includes granite kitchen countertops, 9î ceiling, and luxury master bathroom with large walk-in closets. Many options to chose from. Call today for an appointment to tour this community. Home Builders, Inc. 240-725-0540
From December 3, 2010 through January 2, 2011, Annmarie Garden Sculpture Park & Arts Center hosts their annual Garden in Lights. Surround yourself with colorful one-of-a-kind creations as you walk the quarter-mile loop. Mythical creatures, spectacular wild animals, illuminated works of art, hidden beasts and more will delight all ages. After your walk, enjoy a hot drink, entertainment, the Ornament Show, the Celebrations Glass exhibit and more in the Arts Building. Visit Annmarie Garden’s Web site (www.annmariegarden.org) for information on new golf cart tours, pet night and special discount nights for military, police and others. Regular admission fees apply.
Real Estate Rentals
Must be a graduate from an accredited and approved professional nursing program with a minimum of 3 years experience in long-term care. Must be currently licensed and registered as an RN in the State of Maryland with previous experience in Quality Assurance, JCAHO, Utilizaiton Review, and related areas.Computer experience in Microsoft Word and Excel preferred Must possess ability to work well with others. A complete job description is available for review. To apply, please email resume to lyounger@ccncmd.org. Busy marina in Solomons looking for weekend help. Desired candidate must be trustworthy and reliable, able to work well with customers, and multi-task Position may involve a wide variety of duties; grass cutting, maintenance, fuel dock, etc Applicant's must apply in person at Calvert Marina 14485 Dowell Road Dowell, MD 20629. Applications are now being accepted for immediate Part Time and Full Time positions available for Certified Emergency Medical Technicians or First Responders to work as Security Officers in a beautiful retirement and assisted living community in Solomons, MD. Part Time position may become full time. Uniforms are provided. We are looking for mature and serious minded individuals who are willing and able to follow directions and work independently. Applicants must have reliable transportation. Successful Applicants will receive formal training as Security Officers and become certified as Security Officers in the state of Maryland. They will also receive sitespecific on-the-job training. E-Mail Resume to talonpi@earthlink.net
The Southern Calvert Gazette will not be held responsible for any ads omitted for any reason. The Southern Calvert Gazette reserves the right to edit or reject any classified ad not meeting the standards of The Southern Calvert Gazette. 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. To Place a Classified Ad, please email your ad to: classifieds@somdpublishing.net or Call: 301-373-4125 or Fax: 301-373-4128 for a price quote. Office hours are: Monday thru Friday 8am - 4pm. The Southern County Gazette is published every other Thursday.
Street and in the Prince Frederick Shopping Center will hold open houses from 1 to 5 p.m. Enjoy shopping, great food, art and music. The artist and business communities have put together an amazing array of prizes – pick up your free raffle ticket for validation at any of the participating businesses. The drawing will be at 5 p.m. at Dream Weaver Café and you do have to be present to win. Preview the raffle prizes at CalvArt Gallery. For more information, visit www. artwalkprincefrederick.com. On Saturday, December 11, Waters Memorial United Methodist Church at 5400 Mackall Road, St. Leonard, hosts a Christmas Concert featuring seasonal music from 6 to 8 p.m. Refreshments will be served in the Fellowship Hall following the concert. For more information, call 410-586-1716.
LUSBY 3 bedroom/1.5 bath one-story home in wooded area with two decks; all applicants; double carport; 2 out buildings PLUS WORKSHOP ZONED COMMERCIAL; ½ ac; $1,450.00. For appointment: (410) 586-1100.
Employment
Out&About
Tens of thousands of holiday lights twinkle in Chesapeake Beach to make it the Brightest Beacon on the Bay. Take the family and ride through Chesapeake Beach to enjoy holiday lights which will be displayed until the week after the New Year. Make a stop at Tan’s Cycles to visit their Holiday Train Garden. The train garden is on a 20’ X 20’ platform with five levels, 25 trains, 7 super-streets, a carnival, waterfall, construction site, disappearing trains, tunnels, bridges and much more. The display is free to the public. The American Chestnut Land Trust is gearing up for their annual Greens Sale & Hayride at Warrior’s Rest Sanctuary. Join their prep day on Friday, December 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For just $25 make two wreaths – one to take home and one to be donated to the Greens Sale. Lunch will be provided for all participants! On Saturday, December 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the public is welcomed to stop by Warrior’s Rest to purchase the beautiful handmade holiday decorations and enjoy a hayride to the beach followed by cookies and hot cider. All proceeds from the sale of the wreaths, swags and garland will benefit Warrior’s Rest Sanctuary. www.acltweb.org Discover downtown Prince Frederick on Saturday, December 11, at Art Walk Prince Frederick. Businesses and organizations along Main Street, Duke
The Chamber Orchestra of Southern Maryland will feature the COSMIC Community Chorus in a “Messiah Sing-Along” on Sunday, December 12, beginning at 4 p.m. at the Crossroad Christian Church in St. Leonard. For information on purchasing tickets visit www.cosmicmusic.org. There are several craft fairs in the county where you can find unique gifts. On December 11 enjoy the fourth annual Christmas Market at All Saints Episcopal Church, a colonial church founded in 1692. Terrific local craftspeople will help you with your Christmas shopping from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is available. Baked goodies and authentic glühwein will add to your holiday spirit, as well as vendor demonstrations. Proceeds benefit parish and community projects. www.allsaints1692.org
area. www.olsss.org. On Tuesday, December 21, story tellers will bring “Polar Express” alive for both children and the young at heart at the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum. Children will love the story of a young boy who finds the true meaning of Christmas as he takes a trip aboard the Polar Express to the North Pole. The readings will be at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Immediately following each reading, hop on a trolley for a trip through Chesapeake Beach to view the holiday lights! This is truly a wonderful way to make holiday memories. Refreshments are provided. (www.cbrm.org) Looking for things to do with the family during the holidays? The Calvert Marine
The Northern High School Music Boosters will hold their Annual Holiday Craft Fair on December 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Northern High School. Shop for unique gifts and crafts from talented and local crafters. There is a special children’s craft corner and the craft fair proceeds benefit the Northern High School instrumental music program. For more information, contact 410-257-5984. Our Lady Star of the Sea will host their first annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, December 18, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a great chance to purchase handcrafted and unique gifts for that special someone. There will also be a silent auction, 50/50 raffles and refreshments. Looking for a way to run off a few of those holiday pounds? Register for their 5k run/walk that begins at 8:30 a.m. and wind through beautiful Solomons and the surrounding
Museum offers programs throughout the school holiday. On Wednesday, December 22, they will bring back their very popular gingerbread lighthouse workshop. And on Thursday, December 23, the kids can make an ornament for the tree. The following week there will be programs on horseshoe crabs, jellyfish and seahorses. Check the Calvert Marine Museum Web site, www. calvertmarinemuseum.com, for complete listings and registration information.
Thursday, December-2010
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Fur and Feathers Gentlemen Hunt Geese By Keith McGuire
S
herman was a gentleman farmer, polite and courteous to a fault, absolutely true to his convictions, and the owner of a vast Queen Anne’s County family farm. One of his passions was goose hunting and his farm was tailor made to that purpose. It was situated squarely in the Eastern Shore flyway of migrating Canada geese, lesser geese, and many species of ducks. In 2008, my son Scott and I were invited for a goose hunt. We were ecstatic! On this particular January day we arrived at the farm
well before sunrise. The house, barn, equipment shed and silos were situated in the center of the property, surrounded by expansive fields of harvested corn and soy beans. We were joined by Jack, one of Sherman’s local, lifelong friends. Sherman politely welcomed us, introduced us to Jack, and made sure that we had the appropriate gear – waders, guns, ammunition, etc. He said that there was a large flock of snow geese on one area of his farm that we should target at sunrise. He said they would take flight at 7:00 AM and leave his farm for other favored feeding areas. We should set up in an area of 3 – 5 rows of standing corn near a pond where the geese had spent the night and wait for Sherman, Jack and Scott with a limit of Canada geese plus snow geese and mallards.
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Thursday, December-2010
them to fly over. We all jumped in his crew cab pickup truck and headed for the area. He let us out at 6:55 AM and parked the truck out of sight. We walked a couple hundred yards along the cornstalks as the sun came up. Before we knew it, the sky was filled with geese – a white tornado of birds flying en masse. My son and I unloaded our guns into the sky, and to our delight, birds fell to the ground at our feet. As quickly as they came, they were gone. The sky was empty. We loaded the bounty into the back of Sherman’s truck and climbed in for the ride to another pond with a pit blind that faced downwind overlooking the pond. We all helped spread decoys per Sherman’s directions and then took comfortable stations in the blind. Sherman gave a call to a distant flock of Canada geese, but they didn’t turn. Since we had duck decoys in the spread, he also gave out a few mallard quacks for good measure. During the lull, conversation ranged from serious topics to jokes and stories, all a pleasure to listen and contribute to. A group of eight Canada geese appeared in the air. Sherman piped on a pair of goose calls and, as they turned to the decoy spread, ordered, “Get down!” “Don’t show your faces!” “Take ‘em!” The four of us jumped up, guns blazing as geese fell in the water. We had six. After another brief interlude, a pair of mallards circled the decoys. “Quack, quack, chuckle, chuckle.” “Take ‘em!” As the birds prepared to land, they fell to the report of the shotguns. We quit in time to clean the birds and ourselves. We had a cup of coffee and then headed into Chestertown with Sherman and his wife for a pleasant lunch before heading home. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to hunt Sherman’s farm. He sold the farm in the summer of 2009 and moved out of state, no doubt enjoying a comfortable gentleman’s retirement. I will be offering stories of hunting adventures in future articles for this column. If you have a particularly interesting story, drop me an email at riverdancekeith@ hotmail.com. Be safe and enjoy the season.
ENTERTAINMENT St. Mary’s City Presents Madrigal Dinners Green boughs and period decorations adorn the halls of the State House at Historic St. Mary’s City, bringing to mind a wealthy household in England in the 1600s. The ladies from the Mistress Margaret Brent Garden Club have once again prepared the historic building for the annual Madrigal Dinners. The theme of this year’s Madrigal Dinners is The Kiplin Hall Manor House. Susan Peterson, the president of the garden club, said the club has been working on the decorations since June. All the decorations, with the exception of 1,125 feet of evergreen rope that trims the doorways and windows, were collected and created by the garden club and volunteers with Historic St. Mary’s City. Susan Wilkinson, director of marketing and communications with Historic St. Mary’s City, said the Madrigal Dinners have been a St. Mary’s City tradition since
1972. Wilkinson said it’s normal for the Madrigal Dinners to be sold out, and the tickets for Friday and Saturday performances are always the first to go. “I love it,” Wilkinson said, “I go every year.” St. Maries Musica, a local group of singers that specialized in madrigals and other historic choral styles, will provide the music at the Madrigal Dinners. Mike Judd, the treasurer for St. Maries Musica, said the group has been involved in the Madrigal Dinners since the early 1980s, shortly after the group was formed. Judd has been singing with St. Maries Musica on and off for 24 years, and was involved in the groups first performance at the Madrigal Dinners. “It’s a great event, the audiences are always wonderful,” Judd said. Because of the small space they will be performing in, Judd said it makes it easier for the singers to hear each other, which allows them to have better harmonies. The small space also allows for a sense of intimacy and closeness between the audience and the Photos courtesy of Historic St. Mary’s City performers. He also said the acoustics in the room are good, which makes the experience all the better the history of the county,” Duby said. She said the music is a mix of 26 classical and modfor the audience. The singers perform in renais- ern songs, with styles reaching back to the 16th century sance period costumes, which Judd and including songs composed in the last couple of years. One newcomer to the experience is the director of said are more colorful than medieval St. Maries Musica, Krystal Rickard. Rickard joined St. dress. “It’s a much prettier look,” Judd Maries Musica in August, and said the repertoire for the said. The group doesn’t wear their Christmas concerts were set when she came in. “I’m very excited,” Rickard said. “The members renaissance dress during spring think about it very fondly, so I’m looking forward to the concerts. In addition to the singers, experience.” Expressions Catering will cater the Madrigal DinWilkinson said the servers and helpners, Wilkinson said. The menu will include beef, turers will also be in period dress. Susan Duby, the chairperson for key, oysters and assorted side dishes and beverages. As St. Maries Musica, said the Madri- Judd put it, people will be “full of the Christmas spirits” gal Dinners are only a few of the 11 before the music and entertainment even start. Reservations are required to attend the Madrigal concerts they normally hold during the Christmas season. Their other Dinners. There are still tickets available for Dec. 5 and concerts include a performance at the 12. Tickets are $85 per person, and $75 for Friends of Rivers Edge on the Naval Air Station St. Mary’s City. To make a reservation, e-mail events@ Patuxent River and a free community stmaryscity.org or call 240-895-4991. For more informaconcert on Dec. 13 at Patuxent Pres- tion on St. Maries Musica, visit www.smmusica.org. “It’s just an exceptional evening,” Wilkinson said. byterian Church in California. “It’s great to be part of the events By Sarah Miller SCG - sarahmiller@countytimes.net in the county that draw attention to
Thursday, December-2010
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SAVE ENERGY SAVE MONEY
on heating
• Work with the sun — keep curtains and shades open during the day and keep them closed at night. Look for more information on ways to save energy
• Set your thermostat at 68 degrees in winter. Programmable thermostats help you save because you can adjust the temperature to a lower setting when no one is home. • Have your system serviced professionally at least once a year.
and save money by visiting www.smeco.coop/save
• Clean or change heat pump filters monthly; do not block room registers. • Keep the cold air outside where it belongs by using weather stripping around doors and caulking around windows. • Don’t block your outdoor heat pump with snow, bushes, fences, or leaves. Restricting air flow will make your heat pump work harder. • Apply for SMECO rebates ranging from $75–$400 for improving the energy efficiency of heating systems.
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These programs support the EmPOWER Maryland Energy Efficiency Act.
Thursday, December-2010