2011-08-04 Southern Calvert Gazette

Gazette

Southern Calvert

August, 2011

Priceless

Everything Solomons, Lusby, Dowell, and St. Leonard

One of a Kind Find

After a Quarter Century, ‘Shark Tooth Guy’ a Local Landmark

Photo by Frank Marquart

On T he Cover

William Douglass has served Calvert County for 24 years from his small nook on Southbound Rt. 4.

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Also Inside

Local News

8 Community 12 Obituaries 14 Education

community

RU Calvert’s Next idol winners for 2011 are, from left, Niki Elliott of Broome’s Island, Kaitlin Harbin of Port Republic and Georgia Gillett of Huntingtown.

15 Letters 16

On Water

17

Out & About Cameron Stanley, an 11-year-old intermediate class racer, turns hard out of turn one at SOMD BMX track in Chaptico.

18 History 19

Cover Story

20 Locals 22 Defense 23 Entertainment

entertainment

out & about

Snoopy, played by Bradley Silvestro, hunts down the Red Baron in the latest Newtown Players production, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” The play runs through Aug. 14 at Three Notch Theatre.

FOR EVENTS HAPPENING IN YOUR AREA, CHECK PAGE 17 IN OUT AND ABOUT

August 5-7 2011 Island s n o Solom eport Tide R

Day

High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time /Low Time Feet Sunset Visibl

% Moon

F 5 Low 1:42 AM 0.5 6:11 AM Rise 1:02 PM 5 High 6:47 AM 1.5 8:12 PM Set 11:32 PM 5 Low 1:07 PM 0.1 5 High 7:58 PM 2.0

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Sa 6 Low 2:59 AM 0.5 6:12 AM Rise 2:12 PM 6 High 7:42 AM 1.4 8:11 PM 6 Low 1:56 PM 0.1 6 High 9:00 PM 2.0

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Su 7 Low 4:14 AM 0.5 6:13 AM Set 12:15 AM 7 High 8:42 AM 1.3 8:10 PM Rise 3:18 PM 7 Low 2:50 PM 0.2 7 High 10:04 PM 2.0

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August 12-13 2011 Day

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Thursday, August-2011

High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time /Low Time Feet Sunset Visibl

% Moon

F 12 High 1:50 AM 2.0 6:18 AM Set 5:07 AM 12 Low 8:44 AM 0.4 8:04 PM Rise 7:15 PM 12 High 1:49 PM 1.4 12 Low 7:51 PM 0.3

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Sa 13 High 2:33 AM 1.9 6:18 AM Set 6:09 AM 13 Low 9:21 AM 0.4 8:03 PM Rise 7:45 PM 13 High 2:39 PM 1.5 13 Low 8:41 PM 0.4

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Su 14 High 3:10 AM 1.9 6:19 AM Set 7:10 AM 14 Low 9:53 AM 0.4 8:01 PM Rise 8:13 PM 14 High 3:25 PM 1.5 14 Low 9:27 PM 0.4

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Local Professor Lauds GOP District Plan

LOCAL NEWS

A St. Mary’s College of Maryland professor says that the state Republican party’s proposed map for congressional districts is the answer to a decade of rank gerrymandering on the part of Democrat power brokers and cynical political maneuvering that has prevented fair and balanced representation of all state residents.

Also, he said the Republican plan will be completely ignored.

Shortly after 10 a.m. July 25, units from the Calvert Eberly, who works at a school known County Sheriff’s Office including the Crash Reconstrucfor liberal political thought, penned his artion Team responded to the 100 block of Dalrymple Road ticle saying that Democrats have done an just off Rt. 2 in Huntingtown for the report of vehicle excellent job of gerrymandering the entire crash. state, essentially making a 57 percent voter Upon arrival units found a 1990 Acura Legend down majority into a 75 percent congressional an embankment resting against a tree with air bags dedelegation. ployed. The driver, who was the single occupant, was “Maryland is home to some of the Committee, was surprised at Eberly’s support for the GOP seated behind the wheel unconscious. most gerrymandered congressional districts in the country plan.

Units from the Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Depart… districts that have harmed Democratic and unaffiliated “I think he’s spot on with a lot of what he said,” Willenment responded and transported the driver, later identivoters as much as they have Republicans,” Eberly wrote. borg said. “I hope [the redistricting process] done in a way fied as Kevin Eugene Holland, 54 of Prince Frederick, The GOP plan, he said, respects communities and that provides fair representation for Marylanders instead of to Calvert Memorial Hospital where he was later procounty boundaries more and creates clean, compact dis- political games. nounced dead. tricts. But, because it is fair it has no chance of success, beJoe Anderson, chair the Democratic Central CommitPreliminary investigation has determined that Holcause it will not produce the desired seven-to-one congres- tee, said Eberly showed his partisan colors in his editorial, land was traveling east on Dalrymple Road when his sional ratio Democrats want. but Anderson believed that both parties believed their ideas 1990 Acura left the roadway for an unknown reason. The The ratio currently stands at six-to-two with represen- were right for Maryland. vehicle sideswiped a small pine tree and continued northtative Andy Harris in the First Congressional District and “Each think their goals and philosophies … are what east across a front yard. The vehicle then struck a small long-time office holder Roscoe Bartlett in the Sixth District. people need,” Anderson said. “Our goals are well meaning, embankment and became airborne for about 30 feet, travEberly believes that there is a battle brewing between but the process isn’t so altruistic.” eled down a hill and through some trees for approximateHouse Minority Whip Steny Hoyer and fourth district Rep. He said it would be naïve to think Republicans would ly 96 feet in a northeasterly direction. Once at the bottom Donna Edwards over which GOP official will the targeted not use redistricting to keep and expand their power if they of the hill the vehicle struck another tree and came to rest. by redistricting. were in the Democrats’ place.

It is believed that Holland may have suffered some Hoyer wants Democrat Frank Kratovil back in his old “If the shoe was on the other foot Republicans would type of medical emergency causing him to lose control of post because of a good working relationship, Eberly said, be doing the same thing,” Anderson said. By Guy Leonard (CT) the vehicle and run off the roadway, police say. Cpl. G. while Edwards wants the process to focus on Bartlett being guyleonard@countytimes.net Shrawder is handling the investigation and can be conforced out. tacted at 410-535-2800 or shrawdgm@co.cal.md.us.

“The Edwards forces are winning, that’s what I’m hearing,” Eberly told The County Times.

Eberly said it was in Republicans’ interest politically and tactically to come up with a fair plan to map out districts for the next decade rather than one that was blatantly partisan.

“It doesn’t surprise me. If you’re the minority party, what purpose does it serve to bring forward your own outrageous plan,” Eberly said. “The smartest thing your can do is step forward with something that’s fair. It’s a heck of a lot better than our current map.”

Eberly said he’s received eGary Simpson mails accusing him of trying to subvert the process to prop up a Matt Laidley manufactured majority for the Katie Facchina GOP, but for a man who has written 7480 Crain Highway articles in support of a failed sameLa Plata, MD 20646 sex marriage bill for Maryland and 301-934-8437 the controversial DREAM Act that allows in-state tuition for illegal immigrants, Eberly can hardly be April Hancock called a staunch conservative.

PO Box 407 An Independent Agent Representing: ERIE INSURANCE GROUP “I’m singling out a what I view Standing: Dan Burris, Jake Kuntz, Seated: Lisa Squires, Bryans Road, MD 20616 Susan Ennis, Donna Burris as an abuse of the process by the 301-743-9000 [Democratic] party,” Eberly said.

“Gerrymandering produces an outcome and it discourages participation by moderate voters.”

Auto - Home - Business - Life David Willenborg, chairman Leonardtown, MD • Bus: (301) 475-3151 of the county’s Republican Central www.danburris.com

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Thursday, August-2011

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corner

LOCAL NEWS

Southern Maryland Red Cross Office to Close

commissioners

‘We Proclaim …’

By Susan Shaw President, Calvert County Board of Commissioners

One of the roles of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is to issue proclamations.

The purpose of a proclamation is to recognize a cause, an achievement, a milestone, or as a tribute. Usually, a few are presented each BOCC meeting on camera to further a cause or to recognize a major achievement. Many more are picked up for events. Some are presented by Commissioners at various venues. For example, a proclamation is prepared and given to every young man who achieves the rank of Eagle Scout and every young woman who earns her Girl Scout Gold Award. These are presented at the award ceremony by a Commissioner because they represent a major milestone for the awardees as well as requiring stamina, dedication, planning, organization and leadership to achieve. Each Scout awardee has completed a community service project that enhances our community for years to come. They include making handicapped accessible trails, building stairs and ramps, making tables for Hospice, creating an animal viewing shelter, creating a sports camp, teaching children a skill, and many more. Virtually every non-profit in Calvert County has benefitted from the largess of an Eagle or Gold project. The proclamations also mark change in the lives of the young men and women who earn them, a turning point.

Speaking of change, I have recently presented proclamations that represent major milestones. Two of us delivered one in honor of the 66th wedding anniversary of Raymond and Elizabeth Lankford, long-time community builders in Solomons.

Commissioners Weems, Nutter, and I presented one to Douglas Weems upon his retirement from the Health Department after 36 years of government service to some of the most vulnerable among us. I just presented one to Gary Anderson marking his retirement as Director of the Calvert County Department of Social Services for 46 years as a professional social worker serving first a military family population then a community population needing vital services. His retirement represents a change to teaching and writing more. Donna Millar’s retirement from the Department of Juvenile Justice will be recognized soon. What a change agent she has been in the lives of many, many young persons and their families over a long career! All of the Commissioners participate in these ceremonies that recognize transitions.

Each of these opportunities to honor causes, with the Relay for Life standing out as a recent example; achievements of both a personal nature or an organizational nature, such as the Leading Edge Awards that recognized a number of Calvert County businesses this year as the best in the region; milestones like retirements and 100 year birthdays: or tributes, such as the one to Ethan Jacob McComb of Chesapeake Beach for being the first student in Maryland in 38 years to win the National History Fair signal a change.

The transitions are often bittersweet as familiarity and friends are left for hoped-for unknowns. Change, even good change, is challenging. While it is a joy for we Commissioners to recognize our local heroes, some change comes with controversy, apprehension, and conflict.

More on that kind of change will be in my next column on Aug. 18.

Motorcyclist Killed

At 7:51 p.m., July 23, members of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene of a single vehicle crash on Cox Road in Huntingtown about a tenth of mile in off Rt. 4.

Jonathan R. Smither, 34 of St. Leonard, had been operating a 2001 Harley Davidson Springer motorcycle and failed to negotiate a left turn. The motorcycle left the roadway to the right and rolled over four times. Smither was ejected and came to rest adjacent to the bike. Smither was wearing a helmet that came off during the crash.

Members of the Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Department transported him to Calvert Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Cpl. A. Moschetto of the Crash Reconstruction Team is investigating the crash.

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Thursday, August-2011

The Southern Maryland Chapter office of the American Red Cross in La Plata will be closed as of Sept. 2.

The decision to close the office and consolidate it with the one in Baltimore is the result of national cutbacks across the American Red Cross nationwide, according to Regional Communications Officer Doug Lent.

Lent said the consolidation of operations to the Baltimore office will allow for more money to be used for training volunteers and disaster relief.

“The Red Cross has been operating at a deficit for a long time,” Lent said.

La Plata office CEO Mike Zabko said the Red Cross has been working on the consolidation for the past three years, but it still came as something of a surprise when he found out the La Plata office would be closing down.

He said to get a clear picture of the effectiveness of the Red Cross’ actions and how everything will function within the restructuring will take three to four years of observing the program as it works and is tweaked.

He said the Red Cross volunteers in Southern Maryland will still be in place, and the emergency operations will not stop. The Red Cross has provided disaster relief for more than 100

years and will continue to do so.

The closing of the office in La Plata will mean the elimination of the three people working there, though other jobs in the Red Cross will be open to them if they are available, Lent said.

While the La Plata office is the only one in Maryland that will be closed, the rest will see staff cutbacks. Instead of having multiple regions throughout Maryland, the entire state will be condensed into the Chesapeake Region. All the resources in Maryland will be pooled together, including money and volunteers.

Lent said the disaster relief in the state, which was invaluable after the tornado that hit La Plata, will still be deployed whenever and wherever needed, with volunteers acting as the coordinators.

“It’s still local people,” Lent said.

Disaster relief isn’t the only service the Red Cross offers, Lent said. Another service is helping civilians get in touch with soldiers overseas with news of births, deaths or other emergencies.

That is another service that will continue to be provided to Southern Maryland residents.

“Services will still be provided, just in a different manner,” Zabko said. By Sarah Miller (CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Study Shows Teens Drive Safer With DriveCam

Teens in Calvert County using DriveCam, a two piece camera that observes the vehicle’s interior as well as the road ahead, have a lower accident rate as compared to their peers.

A recent study conducted in Southern Maryland showed that teens using DriveCam are also less likely to drive unsafely, including after the camera is removed from the vehicle.

Also, teenagers in the study chose to wear their seatbelts more often.

In fact, the large number of teens that elected to wear their seatbelts was surprising, DriveCam program representative Jacqueline Milani said.

Although there are fewer accidents in Southern Maryland as compared to other cities and regions, there is an over-representation of teens involved in incidents in Calvert and St. Mary’s County.

Installing DriveCam into the vehicles allows parents to review their teens actions leading up to and shortly after an incident. They can also monitor their kids driving tendencies and help them improve their driving habits.

According to DriveCam program Representative Cindy Burch, teens using DriveCam know they are being watched and so they pay better attention to the road.

“The point (of the cameras) is to ease teens into the driving environment,” Burch said.

The study was able to conclude some of the major causations of teen accidents.

Of the teens involved in the program, 93 percent of the incidents recorded were due to unsafe speeds.

Four percent of all driver distraction events were due to cell phone use, and 9 percent occurred because drivers had their music too loud to be able to focus.

Seventy-six percent of all driver action incidents were a result of cutting corners too sharp, wide, or fast.

DriveCam cameras only became active af-

ter an “event”.

An “event”, defined as a sudden change in either horizontal or vertical g-force at .5 G’s, triggers the camera and records the seconds just before and after the incident.

Parents and researchers then review the footage to see if the teenager was being careless and how they handled the aftermath of the situation.

The recently concluded study, which began in 2008, went through six phases. Participant interviews were conducted to determine if an individual was a “high” or “low” risk.

Participants then were put into categories and observed.

Overall, the study showed that after being under the watchful eye of the camera, teens were less likely to have an event than they were before.

Even after monitoring stopped, teens were driving safer and had less incidents.

The study also validated the belief that parents involvement with their teen driver is crucial to their safety, Burch said.

A parental and new driver survey was conducted as part of the testing.

Parent answers were similar to child answers in the survey totals for each category, showing a correlation between parent and child driving behavior.

Participants believe this study and the continued use of DriveCam are valuable tools in promoting teenager safety.

Sixty-three percent of the respondents believe that DriveCam influences teenager driving behavior.

“It reinforced what we taught our child. He knew that if he drove poorly it would come back to us and it did,” One parent said.

All the project’s research finances were provided by federal grant funds.

Interested parents can visit Drivecam.com for more information. By Alex Panos (SCG) info@somdpublishing.net

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LOCAL NEWS

Security Faulted at Calvert Cliffs Plant

Quarantine for Tree-Destroying Pest Now Covers Calvert Calvert County and the rest of the Western Shore of Maryland are now under a quarantine that forbids the transportation of ash hardwood outside the restricted zone in an effort to combat the spread of the emerald ash borer (EAB), an insect that the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) has deemed highly destructive.

“It kills ash trees in three years,” said Vanessa Orlando, spokeswoman for MDA. MDA officials believe that the pest came into the country from Asia in infected nursery stock that was first detected in Michigan. It was first identified in Prince George’s County in 2003 and then in Charles County in 2008 after being illegally shipped into the state.

The insect has since been found in Howard, Allegany and Anne Arundel counties and officials fear its spread from the Western shore to other parts of Maryland.

The ash tree is one of the most common landscaping trees on the Western Shore, Orlando said, and the pest can often escape detection until its too late.

“Once the tree is cut you can’t tell the bug is in it,” she told The Southern Calvert Gazette. “You can’t move hardwood out of the quarantine area.

“Burn it where you bought it has been one of our messages,” she said.

Signs of infestation include the upper third of a tree dying and withering away and

then shoots and branches coming through the dying portion of the tree, according to information from MDA. Other signs include D-shaped exit holes made by adult pests, vertical splits in the bark and tunnels snaking through the cambium layer of the tree which effectively cuts off nutrients and water to the tree, causing it to starve.

“We believe placing a quarantine on Maryland counties west of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay is the best way to secure [the] Eastern Shore were EAB has not been found to date and protect our riparian forest buffer plantings,” said state Secretary of Agriculture Buddy Hance in prepared statement. “We will continue to work with our federal, state and local partners … however we rely on upon cooperation from the community to follow the quarantine restrictions, not move firewood and to report signs of possible infestation.” By Guy Leonard (CT) guyleonard@countytimes.net

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Thursday, August-2011

Federal regulators found gaps in the security measures at Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant after a six-month inspection at the twin reactor site in Lusby, though the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) will not release the specific details of the issues.

Neil Sheehan, spokesman for the NRC, said that a letter from a nuclear reactor safety regulator to Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, which owns and operates the site, informs the public of the issue in basic terms only.

“Because this involves security there’s not much detail,” Sheehan said of the public announcement. “That goes back to 9/11.”

Sheehan said that the NRC decided to withdraw more sensitive information that would have been made available after the terrorist attacks 10 years ago for fear that such information could be used to exploit such a sensitive target.

Sheehan said that the security issue was listed as “greater than green” which is the lowest of the four security findings on NRC’s color-coded scale.

After green comes white, yellow and then red, being the most serious, he said.

Sheehan said that NRC regulators were confident in their findings but that Constellation officials have the right to contest the finding before a final ruling is made.

“We engaged the company on that and we expect them to fix it,” Sheehan said, adding that the fault was corrected by the plant staff before the inspection team left.

The entire inspection lasted from Jan. 26 to July 13, according to an email from Sheehan.

Because the finding is a preliminary one, Sheehan said, no actual violation has been issued, though if the finding is finalized into an official violation of security it would mean more oversight and scrutiny at the plant from the NRC. A letter from Christopher G. Miller, director of the NRC’s Division of Reactor Safety, stated that the single finding of the security fault had to do with plant management’s inability to get employees to follow all the proper procedures.

“The finding has a cross-cutting aspect in the area of human performance for failing to effectively communicate expectations regarding procedural compliance and personnel following procedures,” Miller wrote in a letter dated July 26. By Guy Leonard (CT) guyleonard@countytimes.net

County to Develop Deer Management Plan

The Board of County Commissioners last week voted to have county staff pull together a task force to study what is believed to be the burgeoning population of deer in the county and how best to deal with them.

Commissioners heard from George Timko, a deer specialist with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) who said that only a very rough estimate of the deer population in Calvert was available, which figured out to about 7,500 for the whole county given an estimated 35 per square mile.

“But I wouldn’t hang my hat on that,” Timko said, adding that a lack of statistics and manpower to gather information hampered the efforts.

Commissioner President Susan Shaw (R-Owings) said that the presentation by wildlife specialists came at her behest because of county government’s inundation by citizen complaints over the damage that deer have caused to farmers’ crops and residential property as well as collisions with motor vehicles.

According to the presentation there were 259 reported motor vehicle deer strikes from 2010 to 2011, while 1,811 were killed through hunting — 75 deer were harvested by farmers with special permits to curb crop damage.

“The main management besides hunting is vehicle collisions and we’d like to reduce those,” Shaw said. “I hit three last year … and with all of them I was going very slow.

“Did any of them survive? I don’t know.”

Some options that are technically available to wildlife managers are moving the deer population to another area, application of birth control and reintroduction of predators like wolves and mountain lions, but none of them are practical or even safe, Timko said.

Birth control took too long to affect the deer population, he said, while there was no available space to move deer to, and even if they did deer, being “homebodies”, would try to find their way back.

And predators would be dangerous not only to livestock but to humans as well, Timko said.

Managed hunts and other methods that including using police sharpshooters to harvest dear using precision rifles in more built up areas were among the most practical management methods.

But hunting deer to a manageable population is difficult as well, he said because there are fewer hunters to do the job.

“Our [hunter] population is aging and declining,” Timko said. By Guy Leonard (CT) guyleonard@countytimes.net

Invasive Snakeheads Turning Up Locally Invasive Northern Snakeheads, predators near the top of the aquatic food chain, are moving around this summer, and showing up all over Southern Maryland.

The Chesapeake Current, a sister publication to The County Times, has learned that a Snakehead was caught recently in Mill Creek in Chesapeake Ranch Estates in Lusby, not far from Lake Lariat, indicating migration into the Patuxent River. Another one was caught last week in the Rhode River in Southern Anne Arundel County.

“A fisherman caught that Snakehead (in Lusby) in June and reported it to us, so it was a positive Snakehead ID,” said Don Cosden, Assistant Fisheries Director for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources in Annapolis. “We don’t know if it was a male or female, but it was a mature adult Snakehead. Another guy reported to us that he’s sure he saw another one in the area and almost caught it, but it got away.

“Mill Creek is a tributary of the Patuxent River, so yes, I believe they have now moved into the Patuxent River,” Cosden said. “And they’re obviously in the Chesapeake Bay, too.”

Cosden says earlier this year, two adult Snakeheads were caught at St. Jerome’s Creek in St. Mary’s County, halfway between the Potomac and the Patuxent. In the second case, the owner of a small marina couldn’t catch the Snakehead, so he got his gun and shot it.

“They’re also now in the Anacostia River and we’re hearing that some sport fishermen are hunting the Snakeheads there with bows and arrows,” Cosden adds.

In the murky waters of the Rhode River in Southern Anne Arundel County, a team of researchers and summer interns from the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) in Annapolis caught a Snakehead last week while conducting routine research.

Native to China, the first Northern Snakehead in Maryland was reported in 2002 in a Crofton pond, approximately 20 miles east of Washington, D.C. That population

was eradicated, but the SERC says a separate introduction occurred in the Potomac River in 2004, which led to the establishment of the Northern Snakehead in creeks and waterways in both Maryland and Virginia.

The Northern Snakehead is typically found in freshwater, although it can tolerate low salinity waters The SERC says the Northern Snakehead can live up to four days out of water if kept moist. This ability comes from air chambers above their gills that act as a primitive lung.

Wikipedia says a Snakehead can travel on wet land for up to a quarter of a mile by wiggling its body and “crawling” with its fins.

They are top-level predators with the ability to consume other fish and animals up to one-third of their own body size.

“We’re hoping the ones in Calvert and Anne Arundel were loners,” Cosden says. By Diane Burr (CC) editor@chesapeakecurrent.com

Solomons VFD to Host EndOf-Summer Party

For those looking for something to do at the end of the summer, the Solomons Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department is planning an End of the Summer Beach Bash on Sept. 24.

Shirley Millette, the current treasurer for Solomons Volunteer Fire Department (SVFD), said the idea for the beach bash came about when they were looking for a new fundraiser to raise money for a new fire truck.

The summer bash will go from noon to midnight, with 5 bands slated to be play all day, including the homegrown Sam Grow Band, with special appearances by champion speed boat Miss Geico and the Hillstrand Brothers from “Deadliest Catch.”

The parry will coincide with the annual Solomons Offshore Grand Prix Race on Sept. 23 through 25, making for a full weekend of activities for individuals of all ages.

“It’s just been growing and growing,” she said.

Other bands appearing at the party will include Synergy, No Green JellyBeenz, Six Gun South and Rusty in the Middle.

The summer bash will also include multiple activities for children and adults, including beach volleyball, making it “a fun day for the whole family,” Millette Photo by Stacey Killmaier

said.

“This is gonna be a big deal,” she said.

The summer bash will join the lineup of SVFD fundraisers, including corn hole tournaments, holiday carnivals and country breakfasts.

Millette said the timing of the event was to prevent the Hillstrand Brothers and Miss Geico from having to make the trip to Calvert County twice.

Planning for the event, which began in May, hasn’t gone entirely smoothly, Millette said. There have been problems with sponsorships, but they are working through the problems. She said anybody interested in sponsoring the event can contact her at 301-481-7560.

Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call 301-481-7560 or visit www.svrsfd.org. By Sarah Miller (CT) sarahmiller@ countytimes.net

LOCAL NEWS ‘A Day in Court’

One way to beat this summer’s hot and humid days is to sit inside the frigidly air-conditioned Calvert County District building and watch traffic court. It’s free, educational and often amusing.

Take for example the five drivers pulled over and cited for expired vehicle registration. The judge, aware of everyone’s time, called all the similar traffic violations at the same time and asked the parties to stand in front of him. One by one he asked each person if they knew prior to being pulled over that their registration was expired and if they remedied the situation before coming to court. The first four said they did not know and they had fixed it.

“Then the judge got to the fifth lady. She said she knew and no she hadn’t fixed it. The judge said, ‘I’m afraid to ask. Where is your car now?’ She said in the parking lot.

She had to drive it to get to court,” Jim Barton retold the story of when he went with his son to traffic court.

Waldorf Attorney Anupa Mukhopadhyay agreed that traffic court can be an interesting study on human nature.

“The 10:30 docket is the ‘must shows.’ You won’t believe some of the stories you’ll hear.”

Everyday except for Tuesday, District Court One holds two morning sessions for traffic violations. The first one starts at 9 a.m. These are minor violations, which do not require a person to come to court. In fact, most people chose to pay the fine and court costs without stepping foot into the building.

Those who do want their day in court must now request a court date, according to Carolyn Kitchen, Clerk of Calvert County District Court. As of January 1, 2011 drivers wanting to plead ‘not guilty’ or hoping to obtain point or fee waivers must send notice to Annapolis. Once Annapolis receives the request a computer will compare the schedules of the law enforcement officers and assign the court dates to the drivers.

“The police requested the change so that they could schedule their court dates and not have officers sitting in court,” said Kitchen.

Prior to the change in the law, a law enforcement officer could sit in court even though none of those receiving traffic violations intended to contest. Now if an officer is in court it is because the driver requested a court hearing.

The second session of the morning is for major violations such as driving while under the influence, driving without a license, driving on a suspended license, and others.

Depending upon who is asked these sessions carry such nicknames as “must shows” or “jail-able offenses.”

While the first session tends to be between the ticketing officer and driver, the second session is between the States Attorney and a defense attorney. In both, the judge and clerk keep the paperwork moving quickly and efficiently. The process is streamlined when the guilty driver can pay his court costs and fines or sign up for his community service on the same floor as the courtroom.

While these sessions are open to the public, don’t be surprised if everyone from the bailiff to the judge asks why you are there. Their experience is that most people don’t come to court for no apparent reason. But they are gracious hosts once they know your interest in the judicial system … or the air-conditioning. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) info@somdpublishing.net

Thursday, August-2011

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Community

Young Ladies Dominate Local ‘Idol’ Competition

17-year-old-category.

Friday’s judges were Cindy Voshell, Charles Harris and Girl power dominated this year’s third annual RU Calvert’s Next Idol com- Tom Dahrens. Nashville producer Tom petition, and there were so many great Dahrens is also a music writer and has performances by 62 talented Calvert produced dozens of artists in Nashville County kids that choosing just one winner and worked in the area’s most prestigious in each age group was a difficult task for studios. Music videographer, Charles Harris from Southern Maryland has the judges.

Not only can these young people worked with many nationally known rap sing, they can play, too. This year’s flock artists such as P. Diddy and Lil’ Kim. Retinkled the keyboard supplied for the cording artist, choir/theater director, and event, and many brought their own instru- long-time voice and choral music teacher, ments ranging from guitars, a ukulele to Cindy Voshell completed the Friday panel. On Saturday, the judges were Dahrens, even a harp!

The winners will not necessarily be as well as Deanna Dove of North Beach signed by a record label, but they did win and Jerry McGaughran. McGaughran, the opportunity to create a professional lifelong vocalist and brass musician, plays demo recording at Garrett Music Acad- with the Calvert Brass Consortium, Calemy’s studio in Owings and have a profes- vert Dance Band and directs two choirs.

Dove is a local singer/songwriter gone sional photo shoot.

This year’s Idols performed a range big. She performs from New Jersey to the of music. In the 8 to 10-year-old category, Caribbean and with four albums, gets ra- RU Calvert’s Next idol winners for 2011 are, from left, Niki Elliott of Broome’s Island (15 to 17-year-old category), Kaitlin Harbin of Port Republic (11 to 14-year-old category) and Georgia Gillett of Huntingtown Georgia Gillett of Huntingtown took the dio playtime around the world.

All the judges repeatedly commented (8 to 10-year-old category). Behind the winners is organizer Nick Garrett. prize singing ‘Hallelujah.’ Kaitlin Harbin of Port Republic belted out a version of on how impressed they were by the brav‘Don’t Rain on My Parade’ that Barbara ery and talent the young people of Calvert Streisand would have been impressed by to displayed.

If you missed the event, you can more win the 11 to 14-year-old age group. Niki Get ready to be wowed at the 30th anRecently, the Donovan’s were honElliott of Broome’s Island, who is on her performances of all the competitors on nual Cancer Crusade Celebration of Life ored with the American Cancer Society’s way to audition for American Idol, sang Calvert Library’s Flickr site, accessible Gala, which coincides this year with the Award of Excellence for Income Develop‘Dog Days Are Over’ and won in the 15 to through calvert.lib.md.us.

Rod ‘N’ Reel’s 65th anniversary. ment for the South Atlantic Division.

Starting at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. The 30th Annual Cancer Crusade 4, the Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa Celebration of Life Gala is taking place will host the 30th annual Gala at the Rod during the Chesapeake Beach Resort & ‘N’ Reel Restaurant.

Spa’s 65th year of business, something the This year, organizers promise an even Resort has been celebrating all year long greater night of food, entertainment and with special events, new restaurant menus surprises. Expect scrumptious local Ches- and unique hotel and Marina packages. apeake Bay seafood, and other inspired Starting in 1946 as the Rod ‘N’ Reel cuisine, desserts, open bars, live music and Restaurant and Marina, the Resort has dancing inside and out under the stars on grown to become a premier waterfront desthe beautiful Chesapeake Bay waterfront. tination location for both land lovers and Host Gerald Donovan says, “This is a boaters who want to have a quintessential spectacular, giant cocktail party which we Chesapeake Bay experience. strive to improve upon in every aspect each Gerald Donovan adds, “Having the year. Our goals are to exceed everyone’s 30th Gala during our landmark Anniverexpectations at each event and to eventu- sary year makes this event that much more ally see cancer cured.” of a celebration for us and our guests.”

Having lost their father to cancer, Honorary Co-Chairmen for this Gerald, the former Mayor of Chesapeake year’s event are Doug Hill, “Washington’s Beach, and his brother, Fred, owners of the most accurate and entertaining TV WeathResort, began the Cancer Crusade Celebra- er Forecaster” who lives in Huntingtown, Aug 13th Aug 14th tion of Life Gala in 1982 to celebrate life and Monumental Sports & Entertainment and raise money for cancer research and Founder and Chairman, Ted Leonsis.

10 am to 1 pm 1 pm to 3 pm patient programs. That first event raised Tickets are $150 per person at the Meet the Ballerinas See the Youth $5,300, and since then over $4 million has door. For more information, see www. rodnreelcancergala.org. By Diane Burr (CC) been raised for the cause. & Try on a Tutu Performance Ensemble, editor@chesapeakecurrent.com The Donovans, including Gerald’s Meet the Ballerinas wife, Mary, host about 2,000 Offering Classes for & Try on a Tutu people each year at the CanStudents Aged 3 & up: cer Gala. Nearly half of the money raised for the event Classical Ballet - Vaganova Method • Into to Ballet • Pre-Ballet is generated through corporate sponsorships, and their Two Convenient Locations for Classes efforts to keep the event a financial success have also and resulted in an increased Visit us on the web for a full listing of classes at each location awareness for the American Cancer Society’s initiatives in cancer prevention, early detection, research, and patient programs and services.

Annual Cancer Gala Kicks Off Tonight

Registration for the

2011-2012 School Year at Annmarie Garden

North Beach

8

Annmarie Garden

301-855-0282 www.abigailsclassicalballet.com

Thursday, August-2011

Community Local Author Prepares For Next Big Release

Shapeshifters and vampires, strewn from the highlands of Scotland to New York, inhabit the world detailed in Kendra Leigh Castle’s books. The New York-born, Leonardtown resident is preparing for her next release in January – Midnight Reckoning, the second in the Dark Dynasties series.

Castle has been actively writing since 2005, though she said writing has been a lifelong hobby for her. Since she was a child, Castle has been an avid reader, and decided to start writing to bring to life scenes she wasn’t seeing played out by her favorite authors.

She said she decided to write her first book when she and her husband were living in the Nevada desert. Having decided there would be no better time than being stuck in the middle of nowhere to finally buckle down and write, Castle said she finally wrote her first complete book.

As a reward to herself for finishing the book, Castle joined the Romance Writers of America, and began her quest for an agent to publish her book. While the book got no bites and several rejection letters, Castle said the experience was priceless.

“I don’t think you learn how to write a book until you write a book,” she said.

While many of the rejection letters she received were form letters, some were more personalized and praised the “voice” in her book and offered tips on improving her writing, “which is invaluable,” she said.

Castle still has her first complete novel, and its rejection letters.

She said the response to her first book was what kept her going while writing her second book, featuring a werewolf who travels from the Scotland Highlands to upstate New York. The book, “Call of the Highland Moon” was what landed Castle her first agent and publishing deal.

“Call of the Highland Moon” was the first in Castle’s first series, the MacInnes Werewolves trilogy. Her choice to set her story in New York was the result of a piece of advice to “write what you know.”

For remote locations that Castle has never actually visited, like Scotland, she does “internet traveling” to find pictures and descriptions.

Currently, Castle is working on her second series, the Dark Dynasties. The first in that series, “Dark Awakening”, was released in July 2011 through Grand Central Publishing. The second two, “Midnight Reckoning” and “Shadow Rising,” will be put out in 2012. Another of Castle’s books, “Renegade Angel,” was a finalist for the 2011 RITA award for Contemporary Series Romance in Suspense or Adventure.

2011-2012 SeASon

TheATRe AND DANCe DINNeR TheATRe - ComeDy LA PLAtA CAmPuS Fine ArtS Center theAtre Flaming Idiots September 22 - 24 | 6:30 p.m.

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mUSIC LA PLAtA CAmPuS Fine ArtS Center theAtre CSm music Faculty Showcase november 4 | 8 p.m. $5 - advance purchase $7 - at the door

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While some books are a fight to get every word out of her head and onto the page, Castle said “Renegade Angel” was “a lot of fun to write,” and was the product of years in Catholic schools.

Normally, Castle said she doesn’t scream out of excitement, but the phone call with the news that she was a RITA finalist, her customary reserve broke.

“It was the shriek heard all the way around the neighborhood,” Castle said.

She said she is still a voracious reader, though she has less time to do so currently. She said she started out reading historical novels, and moved on to everything from Nora Roberts to Gena Showalter. She said she has even read “Fabio covers” and Stephen King, covering the gambit of both novel genres and lengths.

She said some writers are plotters while others are “pantsers.” Plotters will have full storyboards and character outlines before they begin writing while “pantsers” just sit at their computer and start writing without having a clear idea of where they will wind up.

“The fun for me is finding out where I’m going,” Castle said.

While she does fly by the seat of her pants when writing, Castle said she also keeps a notebook for every book she writes where she scribbles down scenes and ideas or just starts writing longhand if she gets writers block at the computer screen. Castle said the change from typing to writing longhand can be enough to get through rough spots.

“It’s really not very organized,” she said. “But it works for me.”

For more information, visit www. kendraleighcastle.com. By Sarah Miller (CT)

music Student honors Recital December 8 | 2:30 p.m.

Free

eat october 13 - 15 | 8 p.m.

La Plata Campus, FA Building, room 143

Jazz ensemble Fall Concert December 8 | 8 p.m. $5 - advance purchase $7 - at the door

october 20 - 22, 8 p.m.

Leonardtown Campus, Building A, Auditorium

Latin ensemble Concert with CSm Chorale December 9 | 8 p.m. $5 - advance purchase $7 - at the door

october 28 - 29, 8 p.m.

Prince Frederick Campus, Flagship Building, room 119

wARD VIRTS CoNCeRT SeRIeS PrinCe FreDeriCk CAmPuS, FLAgShiP BuiLDing, room 119

ChILDReN’S TheATRe LA PLAtA CAmPuS Fine ArtS Center theAtre

october 9 | 3 p.m. november 13 | 3 p.m.

Free - no reservations needed

you’re a Good man, Charlie Brown october 21 | 7 p.m. october 22 | 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. $7 - adults/seniors I S (high U Aschool L Aand R Tbelow) S $5V - youth

The Ward Virts Concert Series is presented by Edward and Patricia Mehosky, St. Clair and Mary Tweedie, Gerry Van De Velde, and Rene Cunningham.

FALL mUSICAL

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Reunion november 10 - 12, 17 - 19 | 8 p.m. (reserved seating) $15 - adults $12 - seniors/military with iD/youth (high school and below)

VISUAL ARTS Gallery Presentations and Gallery Talks Visit www.csmd.edu/Arts for schedule.

CSM campuses are accessible to patrons with disabilities. Audio description for the visually impaired and sign language interpretation for the hearing impaired are available with a minimum two-week advanced notice.

If you are interested in these services, please contact the ADA coordinator at 301-934-7614.

w w w . c s m d . e d u /A r t s w w w . c s m d . e d u

sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Thursday, August-2011

9

Community National Firefighter Health Week Coming

To ensure first responders from Calvert County Volunteer Fire-Rescue-EMS stay strong and ready to serve the community at a moment’s notice, the department is participating in National Firefighter Health Week from Aug. 14-20.

“Because of their significant responsibilities as first responders, it is especially important for our hometown heroes to focus on their health and wellness and do what they can to keep their hearts and bodies strong,” said Calvert County Recruitment and Retention Specialist Kim Jones.

National Firefighter Health Week is sponsored nationally by the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and supported by a network of fire service and health-related organizations. To proactively combat the alarming instances of fatal heart disease among firefighters, the NVFC launched the Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program in 2003 to educate firefighters and emergency responders about heart health and provide them with the tools and resources to get and stay

healthy. The fifth annual National Firefighter Health Week asks firefighters to learn their risk factors, commit to making healthy lifestyle changes and keep the momentum going all year.

During National Firefighter Health Week, the first responders at Calvert County Volunteer Fire-Rescue-EMS will focus on health and wellness by participating in a county-wide softball tournament on Sunday, August 14.

The department asks for community awareness and support during National Firefighter Health Week and in its health and wellness initiatives throughout the year.

Learn more about National Firefighter Health Week and firefighter health at www.healthyfirefighter.org/healthweek.

To find out more about the health and wellness activities of Calvert County FireRescue EMS, or if you or your business would like to assist in these initiatives, contact Kim Jones at 410-535-1600, ext. 2668 or jonesks@co.cal.md.us.

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Thursday, August-2011

4H Club Offers Opportunities to Grow The showing from Calvert County at July’s 4H Horse Jamboree may have been small, but they made their presence known never the less.

Taylor Garner, a 15-year-old 4H participant who attends Calvert High School, won the t-shirt logo contest, making her design the logo on the jamboree shirts, and the championship in the senior photography art contest.

Wyatt Holtrey, an 11-yearold from Calvert County, won reserve champion in the public speaking contest and a championship in the junior photography art contest.

Taylor said she felt like she had a slight advantage in the contest because of her age. She felt like the judges were looking for a design that was “neat and simple,” which is how she described her Photos courtesy of Natalie Garner logo.

She said winning the compeShe said 4H is an international organititions, while a good experience, is not the zation, with students from all walks of life reason for joining. She said the best part of and backgrounds. entering contests is creating something she “I believe it can bring the world closer can be proud of. together,” Taylor said.

“Doing your best means you won for The Calvert County 4H group is open yourself,” Taylor said. to kids 8 through 18, and adults are welShe said she has been in 4H for sev- come to donate their time and talents to the en years and joined at the suggestion of 4H. Children under the age of 8 are allowed her mother, Natalie Garner, a fellow 4H to participate as Clovers, and there are acveteran. tivities and crafts for them to get involved Garner said both her children are in as well. Garner said the older 4H stuin 4H and, while both were interested in dents are encouraged to help the younger horses to begin with, her son’s interest children and even lead them in activities, drifted toward computers, robotics and allowing them to develop leadership skills.

ATVs. Through 4H he can find ATV safety She also said the kids are encouraged courses. to get involved in public speaking competi4H is open to people from all walks tions, a skill that will benefit them later in of life, not just kids with an interest in ag- life. She said she used to be a bashful public riculture and animals. Taylor said there is speaker, but after being in 4H “I have no something for all students to get involved trouble getting up in front of a crowd.” in, from showing animals to photography “It’s very much a family thing,” Garand even public speaking. She said 4H is ner said. an opportunity to find something to be pasFor more information, visit www.calsionate about and “not just be home watch- vert.umd.edu/4H/index.cfm. By Sarah Miller ing TV.” (CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net

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Notley Bateman, 92 Notley Julius Bateman, 92, of Laurel Grove, MD, formerly of Prince G e o r g e’s County, died July 20, 2011 in his home in New Bern, NC. Born on June 18, 1919 in Capital Heights, MD he was the son of the late Perry C. Bateman and Grace Gretchen Bateman. Mr. Bateman is survived by his loving wife Mary Beatrice Bateman whom he married in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Morganza, MD on January of 1997.

Mr. Bateman is survived by his children: Chester A. Bateman of Prince George’s County, Robert L. Bateman of New Holland, MI, William E. Bateman of Calvert County, MD, Kathy L. Payne of New Bern, NC, and Donald L. Bateman, of St. Mary’s County, MD. Notley is also survived by one sister Mary Ellen Snodgrass of Palm Bay, FL, 8 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Bateman graduated from Glasva High School in 1938 and moved from Melbourne, FL to St. Mary’s County in 1990. Mr. Bateman received the Pacific Theater Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, and the Victory Medal during the occupation of Honsu, Japan on September 9, 1945 while serving on the USS Xanthus. Notley served in the United States Navy from February 18, 1944 until he was honorably discharged on January 18, 1946. Mr. Bateman worked as a used car manager with Lustine Chevrolet until he retired in May of 1981. Notley enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and was a member of the music group called “The Vibes”. Mr. Batemen was preceded in death by his brother Peary Clyde, Jr. A Funeral service was held on Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 11 a.m. in the Maryland MattingleyGardiner Funeral Home with Fr. Keith Woods officiating. Interment

followed at Ft. Lincoln Cemetery, Brentwood, MD. Pallbearers were Chester Bateman, Robert Bateman, William Bateman, Mark Bateman, Brian Bateman, Christopher Bateman.

Honorary Pallbearers were Dan Fuller Eddy Fuller, Les Payne, Joe Layman, Phil Layman and Chris Buffalini.

Contributions in memory of Notley Julius “Shorty” Batman may be made to Community Care Hospice, 1423 S. Glen Burnie Road, New Bern, NC 28562.

To leave a condolence for the family please visit www.mgfh. com.

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

Dick Catterton, 66 Robert C. “Dick” Catterton, 66, of Lothian died July 14, 2011 at Calvert County Nursing Center, Prince Frederick.

He was born March 27, 1945 in Baltimore, MD to Doris Catterton. Dick was raised by Josephine Smith Chaney. He attended Fairview Elementary School and Calvert High School. Dick was a farmer for most of his life working the Dowell Farm in Owings. Later in life he worked as a carpenter with Hopkins and Wayson Construction Company.

Dick was preceded in death by Doris Catterton, Josephine Smith Chaney, Joyce McCarthy and a special friend and companion Alice Stallings. Surviving are Pearl J. Dowell of Upper Marlboro, Gloria A. King of Chesapeake Beach, Toni King of Lothian, Rhonda Chaney and her husband Lesley of Chesapeake Beach, Mark King and his wife Laura of St. Leonard and Angie Dowell and her husband Jeff of Hollywood, MD. Rausch Funeral Home han-

dled arrangements.

Memorial contributions: American Diabetes Association, Washington DC-MD Office, 1025 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 1005, Washington, DC 20036-4104.

Richard Fischer, Jr., 58 Richard Henry Fischer, Jr. of Solomons, MD passed away peacefully at his residence on August 1, 2011.

He was born on March 30, 1953 in Washington, D. C. to Frances Hunter Fischer and the late Richard Henry Fischer, Sr. He married his loving wife Susan Fischer on October 2, 1987.

Richard graduated from St. Andrews High School in Florida and attended the University of Florida; he received his bachelor degree in 1977. Richard was a member of the Calvert County Chamber of Commerce, Past President of the Solomons Business Association and Past President of The Friends of Jefferson Patterson Park.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Henry Fischer, Sr. Richard is survived by his mother, Frances Hunter Fischer; beloved wife, Susan Fischer of Solomons, MD; devoted children, Richard Fischer, III of Solomons, MD and Barbara Fischer of Gilbert, AZ and his sister, Anne Lee Phillips of Annapolis, MD. The family received friends on Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at the Solomons Island Yacht Club, 14604 Solomons Island Road, Solomons, MD 20688 where a celebration of his life was held.

The family request in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to S.M.I.L.E., Ecumenical Ministries, Inc., P.O. Box 1276, Solomons, MD 20688, www.smileinc.org.

Arrangements by the Rausch Funeral Home, Lusby, www.rauschfuneralhomes.com.

Audrey Gantt, 79 Audrey Ithea (Bannister) Gantt, 79, of Lusby, MD was born December 12, 1931 in Calvert County, Maryland, to the late Elizabeth and James Bannister.

Audrey was better known as Rabbit or Granny. She received her education in the public schools of Calvert County. Audrey was united in holy matrimony to the late Marcus Gantt Sr. (Boo) on October 13, 1951. They were blessed with six children. She was a devoted wife and mother.

Audrey was a dynamic cook for over fifty years. She cooked at various restaurants and for her church family. Audrey was a mother to the community. She loved everyone and showed her love through home cooking. Audrey opened her home to many friends and family. Her family was center of her life. She gave of herself continuously and always put God first.

Audrey was a dedicated member of Eastern United Methodist Church.

She participated in fundraisers for the Sunday school and sponsored Sunday school trips. Audrey would sponsor children to allow them to attend trips.

Audrey departed this world on Monday, July 11, 2011. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Marcus Gantt, Sr. (Boo).

In addition to her husband and son, she was preceded in death by her son, Olson Gantt, Sr.; sister, Eleanor Bannister; brothers, James Bannister, Sr., Olson Bannister, Sr. and Leroy (Peter) Gantt. She leaves to cherish her memories her children, Ann Hurdle (Shawn), Dorothea (Rita) Gantt, Shirley Gantt, Marcus Gantt Jr., ( Laura), one adopted son Phillip Sutton (Barbara) and sisters, Odella Talley, Cheryl Avery; 4 brothers-in-law, 4 sistersin-law, 20 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and a multitude of

125 4 3 7 To 3 1 0 Pla 3 l l ce a M a C e s a emorial, Ple

other relatives and friends.

Funeral service was held on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at 11:00 AM at Eastern UM Church, Lusby, MD with Rev. Robert L. Conway officiating. The interment was at Eastern UM Church Cemetery, Lusby, MD. The pallbearers were Shaun Johnson, John Jones, Gerald Watkins, Jr., Eugene Lake, Jr., Justin Freeman, and Shawn Hurdle.

The honorary pallbearers were Markee Gantt, Allen Buck, and Darrion Hutchins.

Funeral arrangements provided by Sewell Funeral Home, Prince Frederick, MD.

Alfonzo Jones, 30, Alfonzo Lamont Jones, 30, of Millersville, MD was born to the late Maria Gross and Alvin Jones in Annapolis, MD on August 23rd, 1980. He suddenly departed this life on July 15th, 2011.

He attended Tracy’s Elementary school and graduated from Southern High School in Harwood, MD in May, 1998.

Fonzo’s hobbies included, collecting comic books, going to the racetrack, assembling model cars, mastering video games, and most importantly he LOVED to cook!! He got his passion for cooking from his mother, Maria Gross, who he thought was one of the best cooks around. Fonzo also enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews; whom he loved as though they were his own. In his younger years he loved going to family outings and cookouts at Aunt Jackie’s and Aunt Mickey’s house, because they both spoiled him! He also enjoyed spending time with his brother Domonique, and going to Aunt Syl’s house to spend time with Ikea.

Fonzo is survived by his father Alvin Jones of Clinton, MD, his grandfather Lawrence Chew of Lothian, MD along with 4 sisters and one brother; Shirley Jones of Glen Burnie, MD; DeVonya Jones of Millersville, MD, with whom he resided, Domonique Jones of Baltimore, MD, Allison

Gazette

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Thursday, August-2011

and Ayesha Jones of Landover, MD. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews; Trevon Jones, Imani, Dashawn, Saniya Clark and Jasmyne Young. He also leaves to mourn a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral service was held on Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 11:00 AM at Sewell Funeral Home, Prince Frederick, MD with Pastor Bernard Howard, eulogist.

The interment was at Holland Cemetery, Huntingtown, MD. The pallbearers were his cousins, Dorille Gray, Melvin Jones, Ray Jones, Henry Jones, Jr., Darrion Jones, and Lorenzo Jones, Jr.

Debra Lancaster, 58 Debra Ann Lancaster, 58, of Prince Frederick died at her home on July 9, 2011.

S h e was born on September 11, 1953 in Cu mberland, MD to the late Allan and Reatha Leona Bridges. She had lived in this area since 1986 and had been employed by the Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC).

She enjoyed reading (especially Stephen King novels), watching Jeopardy, playing Farkle and Scrabble and cheering for her beloved Redskins.

She is survived by her son, Russell Lancaster III and his wife, Becky of Churchton; daughters, Dayna Lancaster of Prince Frederick and Jaci Sheckells and her husband, Kenneth of Owings, former husband, Russell Lancaster Sr. of Lothian, seven grandchildren and many friends. Her sister, Juanita Hill and brothers Terry and Vance “Buddy” Bridges predeceased her.

Funeral services were held on July 15, 2011 at Raymond-Wood Funeral Home.

Rev. Marshall Coffman of Calvert Christian Community Church officiated.

John Tarpley, Chip Ewing, Chris Gascon, Eddie Lumpkin, Billy Krug and Matt Huddle served as pallbearers. Delanta Brown and Kenny Sheckells were the honorary pallbearers.

Memorial contributions may be made to Safe Harbor, PO Box 980, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

Arrangements provided by Raymond-Wood Funeral Home, Dunkirk.

Jesse Roach, Jr., 69

Jesse T. Roach, Jr. (Sgt. Ret. MD St Police), died on July 21, 2011, at his residence in Huntingtown, Maryland at the age of 69.

He was born on June 11, 1942 in Lake Village, Arkansas to Jesse and Ollie Roach, Sr. For 46 years, Jesse was the beloved husband of Ethel Roach and the loving father of Gregory, Daren and the late Rebecca Roach.

He was a devoted grandfather to his grandchildren, Justin, Ryan, Kristin, Lucie, Ethan and Gabriel Roach.

Jesse was a resident of Huntingtown, Maryland since 1979 and a member of the Maryland Troopers Association and the Huntingtown United Methodist Church.

Retirement allowed him to spend lots of quality time with all his grandchildren and adding to his collection of baseball cards.

Memorial contributions may be made to Huntingtown United Methodist Church, P O Box 550, Huntingtown, MD 20639.

Anna Schellin, 83 A n n a M a r i e Schellin, 83, of Prince Freder ick , MD passed on July 31, 2011.

She was born on June 15, 1928 in Washington D.C. to Raymond A. Jones and Alice Lee Jones.

Anna was a long time resident of Southern Pines Senior Apartments in Lusby, MD. She was a very active woman and loved to spend time with her children and other family members.

Anna was predeceased by her parents and her husband Herman H. Schellin, Jr. She is survived by her children Linda A. Pennifill, of Melbourne FL; Susan M. Crowe, of Stonington, CT; Betty B. Nolan (Bob), of Richmond, VA; Patricia K. Smith, of West Melbourne, FL; Nancy J. Cory, of Dunkirk, MD; Raymond C. Hoyle (Lynn) of Prince Frederick, MD. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and a sister Carolyn Straeter (Donald) of Ocean Side, Calif.

The family will receive friends on Friday August 5, from 9 – 10 AM at 4405 Broomes Island Road, Port Republic, MD. A memorial services will follow at 10 A.M. Inurnrment will follow at Ft. Lincoln Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be received by Southern Pines Senior Center c/o Senior Counsel,

20 Appeal Lane, Lusby, MD. Arrangements by Rausch Funeral Home, P.A., Port Republic, MD For additional information you can go to www.rauschfuneralhomes.com.

Rick Tranmer, 50 Richard William “Rick” Tranmer, 50, of North Beach passed away July 21, 2011 at the University of Mar yland Medical Center in Baltimore.

Rick was born September 17, 1960 at Providence Hospital in Washington, D.C. He lived with his family in the Washington area and also in Prince George’s County, and then moved with them to Huntingtown in 1974. He attended Northern Middle School and graduated from Northern High School in 1977. Rick attended Prince George’s Community College where he received his Associates Degree.

Rick was employed for 34 years as a sales executive with S. Freedman & Sons, Inc. in Landover, a commercial supplier of paper, maintenance and restaurant products. Rick was a season ticket holder and avid fan of the Washington Redskins. He loved bowling and participated in numerous leagues with his friends at Lord Calvert Bowling in Huntingtown. Rick also enjoyed time with his dog, Max. Rick is survived by two sons, Richard W. Tranmer, Jr. of Lusby and Ryan Cecil Tranmer of North Beach. He is also survived by his parents Judith A. and Preston E. “Joe” Tranmer of Huntingtown; a brother Brett Tranmer and wife Laurie of Prince Frederick; a sister Paige Curran and husband John of

Reston, VA; a step-brother Joseph Tranmer and wife Terri of Prince Frederick; a step-sister Sherry Hancock and husband Ted of Chicago, IL; and his fiancé Jennifer Dooley of St. Mary’s County.

Friends and family were received at Rausch Funeral Home in Owings, where a celebration of Rick’s life took place.

Kent Woomer, 69 K e n t E m o r y Woomer of Chesapeake Beach was born September 7, 1941.

He passed away peacefully at Washington Hospital Cen-

ter July 18, 2011.

Kent enjoyed sailing, horseback riding, doing arts and crafts, and working on his prized ‘69 Chevy Street machine. Spending time with his children and grandchildren was his greatest enjoyment.

His loving wife, Sharon Jenkins Woomer preceded him in death. He is survived by children Demian Woomer of Broomes Island, Deanna Woomer of Washington, DC, Jennifer and Eric Woomer of Chesapeake Beach. He will be missed by all his friends who called him “Sunshine,” and “PawPaw” will be especially missed by his grandchildren, Deegan Woomer, Jordan and Kylee Guariglia of Broomes Island and Natalie and Nathan Roach of Washington, D.C.

Monroe and Stella Morton Smith.

S h e had lived in Virginia and Mar yland and she and her husband moved to Lusby two years ago. She was employed as an office manager for a HVAC Company and enjoyed family gatherings, cooking, shopping and sewing. She had been a member of the Ft. Washington (Maryland) church choir.

Mrs. Velasquez is survived by her husband of 61 years, Ray; son John Velasquez of Lusby; daughters Deanna Jones and husband Percy of LaPlata; Susan McKenzie and husband Rick of Lusby and Sheila Magoon and husband Steve of Wakefield, MA; brother Everett Smith of Conetoe, NC; 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on July 26, 2011 at Raymond-Wood Funeral Home. Rev. Rick Hancock, Pastor of Dunkirk Baptist Church, officiated. Interment followed at Cheltenham Veteran’s Cemetery, Cheltenham.

Pallbearers were John Velasquez, Rick and Mike McKenzie, Percy and David Jones and Steve Magoon.

Memorial contributions may be made to The American Stroke Association, 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 10701 or online at www.strokeassociation.org.

Arrangements provided by Raymond-Wood Funeral Home, Dunkirk

Hilda Velasquez, 81 Hilda Smith Velasquez, 81, of Lusby died at her home surrounded by her family. She was born in North Carolina to the late Duncan

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Thursday, August-2011

13

Spotlight On

145th Calvert County

Jousting Tournament CSM Board Selects Officers

AUGUST 27, 2011 Christ Episcopal Church

3100 Broomes Island Rd (MD 264) Port Republic MD 20676

410-586-0565

Jousting 12 Noon Church Bazaar 10am.-1pm.

Colonial Church & Music 1pm.-5pm. (Air Cond) Country Supper – 2:30-6:30pm (Box Suppers Available) (Rain or Shine – Air Cond)

www.christchurchcalvert.org

• • • • •

Wholesome Pe t Foods All Natural Tre ats Dog & Cat Supplies Home Decor and Art work And So Much More...

Offer Expires: Aug 10, 2011 or while supplies last. One coupon per family per visit please.

Offer Expires: Aug 10, 2011 or while supplies last. One coupon per family per visit please.

In St. Mary’s County

14

Thursday, August-2011

In Calvert County

The College of Southern Maryland Board of Trustees has elected Mary Maddox Krug of Calvert County to a second term as its chair and Austin Joseph Slater Jr. of St. Mary’s County to a second term as the board’s vice-chair.

CSM’s Board of Trustees is the governing body providing leadership and oversight of the college’s mission and policies. Members are appointed by the governor for five-year terms. The board consists of nine members, with Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties equally represented. The chair and vice-chair are selected by the trustees among themselves annually.

Krug, who has been on CSM’s board since 2007, previously served two terms as a Calvert County Commissioner, from 1990-1998, and has worked as chief of the news bureau for the Smithsonian Institution, press spokesperson for the National Park Service’s National Capital Re- Austin Joseph Slater Jr. gion, and a local government affairs representative for Constellation Energy. She received both her bachelor’s degree in journalism and a juris doctorate (with honors) from George Washington University.

Appointed to the board of trustees in 2008, Slater is president and CEO of Southern Maryland Electric Co-op, one of the largest co-ops in the nation. He holds a master of business administration degree in finance from George Washington University, a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Shepherd University and an associate degree from CSM. Additional CSM trustees are MacArthur Jones and Julie Sickle of Calvert County; Lois DiNatale, Mike Middleton and Dorothea Holt Smith of Charles County; and Theodore Harwood and Dr. Janice T. Walthour of St. Mary’s County. Serving as secretary/treasurer to the board is CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried.

Mary Maddox Krug

CSM Offering Non-Credit Healthcare Program Scholarships The College of Southern Maryland is offering scholarships for non-credit students entering one of the Career Starters healthcare training programs.

Funds for the scholarships were provided through a $5,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Charles County for students who intend to work in the county for a one-year period following their studies.

Career Starters training programs prepare students to enter the workforce with the skills they will need to be successful in a career path. Most training programs are 10 to 16 weeks.

Healthcare programs of study include certified nurse assistant, dental assistant, medical billing specialist, pharmacy technician, phlebotomy technician and physical therapy aide. For information on programs of study and courses, visit http:// www.csmd.edu/WorkforceDevelopment/ Healthcare.html.

Beginning this fall through a partner-

ship with the National Healthcareer Association, CSM is offering nationally recognized certifications in electrocardiogram technician (EKG Tech), administrative medical assistant and entry-level clinical medical assistant.

CSM will hold Career Starters open houses for the fall semester in August at each campus, the Center for Transportation Training in La Plata and the Center for Trades and Energy Training in Waldorf.

For information on Career Starters open houses, visit http://www.csmd.edu/CareerStarters/index.html or call 301-934-7765.

For information on scholarships for non-credit students entering one of the Career Starters healthcare training programs, visit http://www.csmd.edu/Training/Financial/index.html#TuitionAssistanceProgram The St. Mary’s County CSM NonCredit Career Starters Open House is from 4:30-6 p.m., Aug. 4 at the Leonardtown Campus, A Building, Auditorium, 22950 Hollywood Road in Leonardtown.

Professor Endorsed Map, Not Party A Shattered System

Todd Eberly, Ph.D., Coordinator Public Policy Studies, Department of Political Science St. Mary’s College of Maryland

Eberly Deserves Much Credit St. Mary’s College political science Professor Todd Eberly deserves much credit for exposing the Democrat Party’s plan to gerrymander the congressional redistricting process by artful map-making.

If they succeed, the state’s congressional representation of six Democrats and tow Republicans would become a seven-to-one split.

Maryland is already a virtual one-party-rule state, where moderate and conservative views are ignored or ridiculed. Further concentration of power in the hands of one party’s politicians cannot be a good thing.

Dr. Eberly was quoted as saying he views the plan of the Democrats as “abuse of the process’ that will further discourage participation of moderate voters.

St. Mary’s County Democrat Committee Chairman Joe Anderson admitted that the “process isn’t so altruistic’ but he would expect Republicans to do the same thing. Obviously, the goal of Mr. Anderson and the power brokers of the Democrat Party is to assure that any opposition party will never have an opportunity to make such a decision.

Tom Burke Hollywood, MD

L

I would like to contribute to the ongoing discussion of the redistricting process and its affect on Maryland and America. Dr. Todd Eberly hit the nail on the head in his letter to The County Times on July 28th. Partisan gerrymandering is a grim reality inherent in our system of government. I am sad to report that this is the way the system is set up and it is the way states have been doing business for a long time.

Intense partisan gerrymandering arises from the increased polarization of government, at all levels, but especially in the United States Congress. Thomas Mann and Norman Ornstein beautifully articulate this argument in their landmark book on Congress, appropriately entitled The Broken Branch.

Such studies suggest that the ambitious non-partisan redistricting process of states like California and Iowa will not be adopted by other states.

Maryland is and has long been a stronghold for the Democratic Party. The national interests of this party trump the view that the current redistricting process is extremely unfair. As long as the two major parties continue to move further away from each other on the political spectrum, redistricting will not change.

I love this country, and I have a hard time accepting the fact that all levels of government have become too divided to be effective and constructive. However, that has increasingly become a reality that many Americans are accepting. The recent debate on the debt ceiling is a clear example. The Republican controlled House passed a budget bill on July 29th almost exclusively along partisan lines and the Democratic controlled Senate quickly rejected it, effectively accomplishing absolutely nothing and wasting nearly a week of intense debate and deliberation. Back to the drawing board, with four days to go until our beloved United States defaults on its obligations, and our economy is mentioned in the same breath as Greece. Mann and Ornstein offer solutions to the problems that cause this partisanship, but they have not been taken seriously.

Changes need to be made to decrease the partisan rhetoric and overall negativity surrounding Washington. Leadership starts at the top, and people follow those who are in power. Therefore, the polarized nature of Washington trickles down to the elected officials’ constituents. This means, following the logic of Mann and Ornstein, that the entire country is becoming more and more polarized.

Thank you Dr. Eberly, for pointing out a major flaw in our democratic system. Let us attempt to implement your solution, along with the solutions of other political scholars, to clean up the mess our government is making. It is apparent they have no intentions of cleaning it up themselves.

Editor

S

A July 21 article by Guy Leonard discussed my recent endorsement of the Maryland GOP’s proposed redistricting map. Although I described the map as imperfect, I argued it was better than the current map, and certainly more representative of the state than a map that created a 7 to 1 Democratic Congressional delegation.

I want to clarify that a critique of Maryland’s gerrymandered districts is not an attack on the Democratic party or its policies, it is an attack on the redistricting process. I endorsed the Republican map simply because it is a good map. Had the Kiwanis Club, or MaryPIRG, or the state Democratic Party presented the same, or a better proposal, I would have endorsed that map. But in this case, it was the Maryland GOP. That in no way suggests that I absolve the Republican Party of their equally egregious gerrymandering antics in other states.

As a college professor I am accustomed to people accusing me of being a socialist or a left wing ideologue. During the 2011 legislative session a piece I wrote for the Washington Post in support of the same sex marriage legislation prompted one reader to accuse me of being a “left wing socialist out to destroy the traditional family.” So in some respects, it’s refreshing to have folks now assume that I must be a right wing ideologue for daring to question the make-up of Maryland’s Congressional districts.

I admit to not having much patience for dyed-in-the-wool partisans. Folks who think that their party is dedicated to goodness and light and that the opposition party is evil incarnate really need to wake-up to the reality that there is nothing inherently good or evil about the Democratic or Republican Party.

In the end, the Democratic and Republican Parties share the same goal - the acquisition of power and influence within government. And both parties will use whatever legal means are available to them to acquire power. In states dominated by Democrats, like Maryland, Democrats use the redistricting process to game the system and boost party interests. Likewise, in a state like Texas, Republicans do the same.

Some folks argue that so long as redistricting is a partisan process and the GOP controls the process in states like Texas then it should be OK for Democrats to manipulate the process in states where they dominate. As a father, I’ve heard this argument many times except it goes “yea, but he started it,” “did not,” did too.” So I have little patience for an adult version of that childish justification being applied to something as important as representation in Congress.

A handfull of states, among them California and Iowa, have rejected partisan gerrymandering in favor of a non-partisan process. This is what I would I like to see in Maryland. I want to see more states follow the lead of Iowa and California and make this a non-partisan issue. Far from “showing my partisan colors” as suggested by Democratic Central Committee chair Joe Anderson, my critique of Maryland’s gerrymandered mess was decidedly non-partisan, or perhaps more accuratley, anti-partisan.

Of all the institutions of our national government, the House of Representatives was the one body most intended to embody democratic representation. No reasonable person could look at Maryland’s 2nd or 3rd Congressional districts and conclude that they were drawn to best represent the interests of the people. As Americans we should be outraged that the parties (Democrats and Republicans) manipulate something as sacred as representation in the manner that they do. Gerrymandering subverts representation and subjugates the interests of the people to the interests of political parties.

So let me summarize. I oppose gerrymandering. I do not care if it helps Democrats... I do not care if it helps Republicans ... It’s an abuse of process ... It harms everyone ... and some things, in fact most things, are far more important than party loyalty.

TER T E to the

Calvin Brien Dameron, MD

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Thursday, August-2011

15

Sp rts

BMX Riders ‘Race for Life’

With the BMX season underway, riders competed in two days of racing at Southern Maryland BMX track in Chaptico.

Last Saturday, riders competed in the American Bicycle Association’s Race for Life series.

The ABA has hosted this series since 1981 when one of it’s riders was diagnosed with leukemia and later succumbed to the disease. Ever since, the ABA has hosted Race for Life events around the country at participating tracks.

On Sunday riders from all over the state competed in the Maryland State Championship Qualifier. Riders competed to win a spot in the State Championship to be held in September at Chesapeake BMX. Sunday morning found the local riders out early grooming the surface of the track with rakes and shovels. Ruts and holes from the season had to be smoothed over in expectation of a large crowd to race.

The hard work of the volunteers didn’t go unnoticed from the visitors.

Many visiting riders exclaimed what a beautiful park the track is located in.

With Chaptico Park being off the beaten path for many riders from outside the area they were impressed with the facilities available and the hospitality shown by the home track riders.

Among riders in attendance was Taylor Bohannon who races in the 8-year-old novice class.

When asked what she thought about before the race starts she replied “Me winning!” she went on to say even if she doesn’t win “it’s all about having fun.”

With four months of the BMX season left to race, the track welcomes new riders to come and try the track out. It’s a great way to get the kids off the couch and enjoying a day of friendly competitiveness. By Scott Loflin (SCG) info@somdpublishing.net

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Thursday, July-2011

World’s Fastest Lawn Mower Racer Coming to St. Mary’s Gentlemen, start your engines. The 7th Annual St. Mary’s National Lawn Mower Race festivities begin Friday at Bowles Farms.

Bobby Cleveland, 9-time champion and world record holder for both top speed and monster mower jumping, will be participating in the race this weekend.

Known as the Engine Answer Man, Cleveland expects to reach speeds of 50 mph during the race driving his infamous “Sodzilla.”

Cleveland set the lawn mower world speed record in 2010 when he reached 97 miles per hour at the Salt Flats in Utah in 2010.

It remains an active goal for him to hit triple digits.

“They’re not going to remember who went 96.5, they’re going to remember who went 100 first,” Cleveland said.

His engine’s belt was slipping in 2010, and he knows he can easily fix that problem when he eventually returns to Utah.

Cleveland’s interest in lawnmower racing was sparked as a little boy.

He had a red snapper mower he would push around the lawn in his hometown of Locust Grove, GA. It would take him about an hour to cut the grass. He would always run around, trying to hurry and complete his task as fast as possible.

“I thought to myself, boy if they ever turn this into a competition I’d win because I always try to do it so fast,” Cleveland said.

After getting a job with a lawn mowing company, Cleveland had access to all the parts and equipment he wanted and began to build mower engines just for fun. The mowers he put together were so impressive he was invited for a pre-race event at the Atlanta 500.

“Take a piece of junk and make it fly,” he said.

Since his debut in 1995, Cleveland has been at or near the top of the national lawnmower ranks. He has been the overall points champ twice, driver of the year, set world records, and been a representative of the USA at the World Championships.

Fans attending the event at Bowles Farms will be seeing one of the better lawn mower

events of the year, at one of the finer venues, he said.

“There are not that many dedicated tracks like this one around the country,” Cleveland said.

Saturday’s race is a regional points race that can be used as a qualifier for the National Race on Labor Day weekend in Delaware, Ohio.

Racers are coming from all over the country.

Racing a lawn mower is different from gocarts because mowers are top heavy.

The race features a Le-mans style standing start.

Racers sprint to their mowers, start them, and race approximately 20 laps at speeds of 45-50 miles per hour.

“Starting is a big part of the race. If your mower doesn’t start right up you have no chance,” Cleveland explained.

He also said it is important to be patient, and know your opponents, adding that one of his biggest concerns is getting in front of local racer Jason Brown.

Despite the intense competition that will be on display during the race, the event is all for good fun.

This crowd is one of the largest of the year for a lawnmower race, with approximately 3,0005,000 people expected to attend the event.

“We enjoy getting the people together,” said Bowles Farms owner Tommy Bowles. “It’s been seven years and we always have a very down-athome atmosphere.”

All proceeds will benefit the Seventh District Volunteer Rescue Squad and the Seventh District Optimist Club.

Bowles believes that people should come out not only because they will have a good time, but also because it is a non-profit event with the money going back into the community.

Cleveland concurs.

“The main point is that this is a great fundraiser for the community,” Cleveland said, “So come out, have fun, and meet the world’s fastest racer.”

For more information on the events visit www.bowlesfarms.com. By Alex Panos (SCG) info@ somdpublishng.net

Tuesday-Saturday, Aug. 2-6 • Carnival Sponsored by the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department North Beach, Visitor Parking Lot 5th Street and Bay Avenue on the Boardwalk, North Beach 301-855-6681 • 410-257-9618 • www.ci.north-beach. md.us

Friday, Aug. 5 • First Free Friday Calvert Marine Museum (5-8 p.m.)

14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons 410-326-2042 • www.calvertmarinemuseum.com The first Friday of every month features the first FREE Friday program when the museum is open and free to the public from 5 until 8 p.m. with special entertainment and activities. The Drum Point Lighthouse will be open and 30-minute cruises are available on the “Wm. B. Tennison.” Deanna Dove will perform at 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 5

• USO Reenactment of WWII (USO Night) (6-10 p.m.)

Circle of Angels Initiative, Inc. Boardwalk Pavilion at Solomons Island 410-257-5488 • info@circleofangels.org – www.circleofangels.net Free and open to the public, USO Night is on the boardwalk pavilion in Solomons. This musical event salutes those who trained at the Solomons base during WWII with original recordings from the era and live performers. There will also be a wreath-laying ceremony and Taps at sunset.

Saturday, Aug. 6-7

• 26th Annual AIITCO Native American Powwow Calvert County Fairgrounds 140 Calvert Fair Drive, Prince Frederick 301-869-9381 • www.aiitco.com Bring lawn chairs and enjoy Native American dancers from across the country, listen to the sound of their drums and learn about Native American culture. Grand entry will be on noon both days. Craft vendors with jewelry, pottery, books, music and native foods will be available. Visit website for admission and times.

Saturday, Aug. 6-14

• The Sidewalk Chalk-a-thon (10 a.m.-5 p.m.)

Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center 13480 Dow-

Out&About

ell Road, Solomons 410-326-4640 • www.annmariegarden.org Show off your artistic flair at the annual Sidewalk Chalk-a-thon art contest. Free for members or with admission to the Arts Building (otherwise there is a $1 per entry fee). Don’t miss this unique opportunity to make some interesting art and stroll through a colorful pathway. You may even win a prize!

Thursday, Aug. 11

• Summer Fun Days Children’s Programs Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum (10-11:30 a.m.)

4155 Mears Avenue, Chesapeake Beach 410-257-3892 • www.cbrm.org Free children’s programs, crafts, games and exploration of the museum and its history.

• Bay Breeze Concert Series – Two for You Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum (7:30 p.m.)

4155 Mears Avenue, Chesapeake Beach 410-257-3892 • www.cbrm.org Ralph and Janet will perform a variety of musical styles from the 40s through today on their second appearance to the series. All concerts are free and outside on the museum porch.

Concert series made possible with cooperation of the Calvert County Commissioners and financial assistance from HELP Association, Inc., the Town of Chesapeake Beach and generous memberships.

Saturday, Aug. 13

• Fossil Field Experience Calvert Marine Museum (9 a.m.-2 p.m.)

14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons 410-326-2042 –www.calvertmarinemuseum.com Designed for adults and children eight and older who want to learn more about fossils, where to find them, how to identify them and what they tell us about the past. Fee is $20.

Space is limited and registration is required.

• Colonial Family Days: A Colonial Celebration!

Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum (10 a.m.-2 p.m.)

10515 Mackall Road, St. Leonard 410-586-8501 • www. jefpat.org Celebrate the end of the growing season by creating a colonial feast using recipes of the time. Visit our Native Garden, harvest crops and learn to cook over an open fire. After feasting, enjoy traditional colonial dance. Advanced registration required.

• Eat, Drink, Go Local – North Beach 5th Street & Bay Avenue on the Boardwalk, North Beach (Noon-6 p.m.)

301-855-6681 • 410-257-9618 • www.ci.north-beach.

md.us or www.marylandwine.com Come for a pairing of the best of what Southern Maryland has to offer with an open-air farmers market feel. Browse local produce from regional farmers and enjoy cooking demonstrations all while learning which local wines to pair with local fare.

• Guided Canoe Trip American Chestnut Land Trust (1:30-4:30 p.m.)

Warriors Rest Sanctuary, 1920 Scientists Cliffs Road, Port Republic 410-414-3400 • www.acltweb.org Please note that canoe trips are physically strenuous, requiring paddling for three hours (frequently against wind and tides) and may require participants to help carry a canoe for up to one-quarter mile over sand to access the creek. Reservations required. Call 410-414-3400 or email info@acltweb.org to register.

• Moonlight Cruise on the Chesapeake Bay (7:30-9:30 p.m.)

Join us aboard the “Miss Chesapeake Beach.” Light refreshments will be served; beverages available for purchase.

Tickets are $25 per person. Call Chesapeake Beach Town Hall to reserve your space. 410-257-2230 • 301-855-8398

• Ronnie Dunn Concert St. Leonard Volunteer Fire Department (Gates open at 5 p.m.; concert at 7 p.m.)

200 Calvert Beach Road, St. Leonard 410-586-1713 Join us in welcoming country music star Ronnie Dunn singing his award-winning songs from the past as well as from his new album. Tickets are $45 premium; $40 reserved.

Thursday, Aug. 18 • Archaeology Speakers Series – “…there is still some remains”: Excavations on the 18th Century Smith Plantation (7 p.m.)

Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory, Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum 10515 Mackall Road, St. Leonard 410-586-8501 • www. jefpat.org Lecturer Edward Chaney, Deputy Director, MAC Lab, discusses the Smith Family that lived from 1711 to 1754 at the mouth of St. Leonard Creek on property that is now part of Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum. While the house has washed away, archaeological traces of the kitchen and outbuildings are preserved below the ground. Excavations have uncovered a number of structures including one of the oldest horse stables in the Chesapeake region.

Thursday, August-2011

17

P ages P

ast

By Joyce Baki

Do You Know Gov. Thomas Johnson?

In 1978, the Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge opened to traffic across the Patuxent River, connecting Calvert County to St. Mary’s County, but many don’t know the decorated history of this man.

Thomas Johnson was Maryland’s first elected governor. Born on November 4, 1732, in St. Leonard, he was one of 10 children born to Thomas and Dorcas Sedgwick Johnson.

His grandfather, also named Thomas Johnson, came to Maryland in the late 1600s from England. Grandfather Johnson had eloped with Mary Baker, a chancery ward. In those times it was forbidden in England to marry maids in chancery, so he fled with his new wife and settled in Maryland along the shores of the Patuxent River.

Young Thomas Johnson and his siblings were taught at home. He was attracted to law, so his parents sent him to Annapolis where he studied under Stephen Bordley. He was admitted to the Maryland bar in 1753 at the age of 23. In 1760 he moved his practice to Frederick County, where, in 1760, Johnson was elected for the first time to the provincial assembly.

On February 16, 1766, Thomas Johnson married Ann Jennings, the daughter of Thomas Jennings, who was his employer. Thomas and Ann had eight children.

Johnson served as a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1774 and 1775 and favored separation from Great Britain. When Congress created a Committee of Secret Cor-

18

Thursday, August-2011

respondence to seek foreign support for the war, Johnson served on the committee with Benjamin Franklin, John Dickinson, Benjamin Harrison and John Jay. The committee’s most notable success was to convince the French government to support the cause of the colonials.

After returning to Maryland to continue his work in the Assembly he did not join in the writing of the Declaration of Independence, however, he did draft a declaration of rights that was adopted by the Maryland Assembly. This declaration was included as the first part of Maryland’s first constitution, adopted in 1776. During the Revolutionary War he served as brigadier general in the Maryland militia.

He and his brothers, James, Baker and Roger, also supported the revolution by manufacturing ammunition at their business, Catoctin Iron Furnace. The furnace remains can be found at Cunningham Falls State Park, just north of Frederick, Md. In 1775, the Second Con- Thomas Johnson by Charles Willson Peale tinental Congress met in Philadelphia. On June 15, 1777, Thomas Johnson nominated his friend, George Washington, to be Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. Washington was elected by a unanimous vote.

In 1777, the state legislature elected Thomas Johnson as the first governor of Maryland and he served as governor until 1779. In the 1780s he served in a number of judicial posts and also in the Assembly. In September 1789, President George Washington nominated Johnson as the first federal judge for the District of Maryland, a post Johnson declined. In 1790 and 1791, Thomas Johnson served as the senior justice in the Maryland General Court system.

On August 5, 1791, Thomas Johnson received a recess appointment to a seat on the U.S. Supreme Court by President Washington when John Rutledge resigned. Recess appointments are made when a seat on the U.S. Supreme Court must be filled while Congress is on recess. His appointment was confirmed by the United States Senate on November 7, 1791. He served on the court until January 16, 1793, resigning due to poor health. His health forced him to decline an offer of Secretary of State in 1795 by Washington. In 1801, he was named chief judge for the District of Columbia by President John Adams.

In poor health for many years, Johnson lived in his later years with his daughter Ann, who married John Colin Grahame. Their home, Rose Hill Manor, was in Frederick. It is now a county park and is open to the public. Thomas Johnson died at Rose Hill Manor on October 26, 1819, a week before his 87th birthday. Originally buried at the family vault at All Saints in Frederick, his remains were removed and re-interred at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

A monument was erected over his grave. Taken from his obituary in the Maryland Gazette, November 11, 1819: “‘Mr. Johnson was among the first in the Union to assert the just claims of his country against the tyranny and oppression of Great Britain, and was early in life honoured with the most important and arduous trusts which his countrymen could confer. . . . His deeds are inscribed in the imperishable archives of his country; his wisdom, impartiality and integrity in the records of justice; his worth & virtues are preserved in the hearts of his countrymen; his kindness, affection and friendship in the memory of his family, relatives and friends; his trust for immortality rested in his Savior and God.” In another footnote of history, the daughter of Johnson’s brother Joshua, Louisa Johnson, married John Quincy Adams, the sixth President of the United States.

The Shark Tooth Man – a One of a Kind Find William Douglass has served Calvert County for 24 years from his small nook on Southbound Rt. 4. At least that is how he feels about collecting and selling fossils from the county’s beaches.

During one of the hottest and most humid summer days this summer, Douglass sat on his plastic green Adirondack chair in the shade of his umbrella and pickup truck to talk about his years selling shark teeth along the highway.

It all started Independence Day 1987 when he set up his local finds along the road for residents and tourists alike. In the beginning he kept a log to see how long it would take him to reach his goal of serving someone from “every state in the Union.” After four or five years he met the goal and stopped keeping his log.

“I’ve been collecting since I was a little boy. I was born in Port Republic, and a lady friend showed me how to look for them.”

It doesn’t take long after sitting down with Douglass before one hears the word “enjoy.” He enjoys everything about his little business, which he prefers to call his hobby. His unusually crystal blue eyes dance as he talks.

“I enjoy setting up.”

“I enjoy talking to people.”

“I enjoy watching vehicles.”

“I enjoy watching the weather looking for changes.”

“I enjoy telling stories of how I found things.”

“I enjoy children.”

In fact, he started collecting and finding out about his collection for the children; however, he has found over the years that “everybody” seems to appreciate pulling over and looking through his finds.

He collects all year long and sets up when the weather is nice enough. He also tries to set up during the holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas

for those who want to give unique and local gifts. He always sets up across from Calvert Cliffs State Park.

“People seem to be able to find you if you don’t move around.”

By being a Calvert County icon, Douglass has found that residents will call him up when they have family coming into town. They will either buy something for their visitors or they will bring their visitors by to see him.

Douglass’ customers aren’t just Americans. Just this summer he sold merchandise to a family visiting from Amsterdam and a young man from Spain. He rattled off customers from Australia, Argentina, Mexico, Venezuela and Africa, to name a few.

“One day I was sitting in my truck reading about shark attacks. I see a Hertz van make a U-turn and stop in front of me. The man got out and asked me if I knew who he was. I told him I didn’t, even though I was just reading about him in my book. It was Rodney Fox from Australia. He showed me his scars and I said, ‘Looks like someone was in a bad car accident.’

I was just joking because I knew who he was. I just happened to be reading about him.”

According to Wikipedia, Rodney Fox “is regarded as a miracle survivor of one of the world’s worst non-fatal shark attacks.” The entry goes on to detail his injuries including a permanent piece of a great white tooth embedded in his wrist and 462 stitches required to sew him up.

Besides meeting Fox, Douglass listed many locals who stop by regularly to see him. He appreciates the attention from Senator Mike Miller, Sheriff Mike Evans and people from the Calvert Marine Museum.

When mentioned that state trooper and sheriff vehicles are often seen parked alongside his truck, Douglass chuckled.

“They say they like to hear my stories. They look

STORY

out for me. They are always around. It makes it easier to know that I have friends around watching out for me.”

Douglass doesn’t just talk to the local humans.

He’s struck up a few conversations with seagulls and deer while he’s out on his “fossil trips.”

“In the winter when I’m pushing on ice you don’t see many folks. I see the seagulls huddled together and I talk to them.”

He laughs as he tells the story of deer hunting season when he’s out collecting fossils and the deer are standing on the sandbars grazing on grass and lapping sea water.

“I’ll see 20 or 30 of them on the shore while the hunters are in the woods looking for them.”

Douglass only collects what he calls “floaters.”

These are artifacts and fossils which are floating along the shorelines or out in the water. He won’t dig anything out of the cliffs. Over the years he’s found oyster shells, whale bones, sea glass, clam shells, Indian artifacts, horse teeth, crocodile teeth and crushing plates of stingrays.

Before he started selling fossils along the road, Douglass spent 13 years in the Army and was honorably discharged. His career cut short with Lymphoma.

“I still have shunts in my heart. I worry with thunder and lightning.” He cringed as he spoke.

Over the years he’s observed some interesting events along the road. The funniest, he said, was watching two young men coming down Route Four in a 1966 convertible when the car tire came off rolling so fast it actually passed the vehicle.

“They watched it roll by them and all the way down to the Cove Point exit while they slid off into the guardrail sparking the whole time.”

Another time, he saw a multi-vehicle accident as someone made a left turn into the State Park. He was sitting outside his truck when he saw a tractor-trailer and dump truck swerve to go around the accident and head straight toward him.

“The sheriff asked me if I saw the accident. I told him all I saw was the truck grill and I took off running for the trees.”

Douglass said he believes he was meant to serve the people and children of Calvert at his spot. He said before his father died, he told Douglass to “take care of the children.” One day a female ambulance driver stopped and told him that his father was pronounced dead at that exit as they tried to transport him from his Drum Point home to the hospital.

Last year he spoke to approximately 800 elementary students in a Clifton school. He laughed as he said the principal noted she thought she saw steam coming out of his head after answering all the students’ questions.

Douglass hopes that his future will allow him to spend more time visiting elementary schools and sharing what he has and knows.

As the sun started slipping behind the trees and the sound of the traffic lowered during the interview Douglass noted his greatest concern is that there won’t be anyone who’ll take over his service to the county after he’s gone. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) info@somdpublish-

ing.net

Thursday, August-2011

19

L

Shop Owners Team Up to Give Car to Needy Family

In an effort to give back to the community, Val Spencer, the owner of Laser Lube Auto Repair in California, along with the nearby AutoZone and NAPA Auto Parts is working to find a car to fix up and give away to a family in need.

Spencer said she got the idea for a car give away from a management success workshop, where she got several ideas she still uses to this day. While she was “on the fence” about doing the car give away for a while, she finally decided to jump in and do it.

The car Spencer is seeking is a midsize or larger, with four doors and seating for at least five. The goal is to fix up the donated car, addressing any mechanical issues, and then give it away to somebody nominated by the public. Once they have the car, it is up to the recipient to register and insure the vehicle. While they don’t have a car for the give away yet, Spencer said there are a couple people who have expressed interest in donating cars.

“I’ve got a few feelers out there,” Spencer said.

Mark Tyra, commercial manager for AutoZone in California, said they want to give the car to people who will use it to help others in turn and perpetuate the cycle of giving to the community. He said giving an individual the means to help somebody else makes the give away a win for as many entities as possible.

The car give away is not the first time Tyra has found a way to do charity work through his job.

“That was my big thing when I was working at NAPA,” Tyra said.

This will be the first time he has done a car give away though. In the past, Tyra has given away toys at hospitals during Christmas and participated in other charity events.

Spencer said she could make a living by taking in wrecked cars, fixing them up and reselling them for a profit, but that’s not something she’s too interested in doing.

“I’m not in the reselling cars business,” Spencer said. “I’m in the repairing cars business.”

Spencer has owned and operated Laser Lube in California since 1989. She hopes to keep others from feeling like their car is too mysterious for them to even begin to understand.

When a person brings their vehicle to Laser Lube for a basic service, the mechanics explain and report the issues they find. During a 40-point oil change, car owners can expect to see all their drive train fluid samples compared to a new sample, their air filter, and coolant samples with PH testing.

Spencer grew up in Minnesota, where the frigid winter weather alone was a good reason for people to want their cars to be reliable. Spencer’s family cars tended to be older and always seemed to need maintenance. Even as a child, Spencer always suspected that her father, who was not mechanically inclined, was getting ripped off by auto shops not really fixing the problem and suggesting unnecessary work.

“I’d just seen it so often, you start to get suspicious,” Spencer said.

Because of this, Spencer said she is doing her best to make sure the car for the giveaway is in good shape. She said her goal is to have as many locally owned businesses as possible involved in the car give away.

AutoZone will be contributing some money and supplies to the cause, and Tyra said he will fill in the gaps personally, making sure Spencer gets everything she needs.

NAPA Auto Parts will also be contributing to get Spencer the parts to fix up the car. NAPA Manager Jimmy Kerns said this will be the first car give away that the local NAPA has been involved in, but not the first time they have gotten involved in local charities.

“You support the people that support you,” Kerns said.

He said if the car give away were to become an annual event, he sees NAPA continuing to be involved. He’s also supportive of the car going to individuals who will use it to help others, perpetuating the cycle of promoting the community from within.

Tyra also said if the car give away becomes an annual event, he will continue to be involved.

Spencer said she sees no reason why the event can’t become a recurring thing.

“What’s the point in doing it once?” Spencer asked.

She said she is willing to work on the cars on her down time and just continue the cycle of fixing up cars and giving them away.

“We could just keep on doing it,” Spencer said.

The recipient of the vehicle will get it free, but they will be responsible for tags, stickers, titling and insuring the vehicle to get

20

Thursday, August-2011

it on the road, Spencer said.

Insuring the vehicle does play a role in finding a car to fix up for the giveaway. Spencer said a car that has been totaled or labeled “scrap,” even if it can be fixed up and used again, cannot be fully insured. It is only eligible for the most basic, get it on the road insurance.

She’s also wary of accepting cars that need transmission work done, because that’s not a service she normally does herself, instead referring car to other mechanics for major transmission repairs.

The car giveaway is not the first time she has done something to give back to the community. She sends out regular postcards with discounts on services to her customers, as well as putting in additions to welcome packages for new residents in the county and even hosting a Fourth of July Pig Roast at her house, where she invited everybody on the Laser Lube email list. She has also getting involved in “jail and bails”, and helps promote the Care Net Pregnancy Center.

To nominate individuals for the car giveaway, send an email to Val at: laser_lube@verizon.net. Spencer said she will accept nominations from St. Mary’s and Calvert Counties for the car give away. By Sarah

Miller (CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Staff Writer Corrin M. Howe contributed to this story.

California business owner Val Spencer, of Laser Lube Auto Repair, is teaming up with Mark Tyra, commercial manager for Autozone, left, and NAPA Auto Parts manager Jimmy Kerns, to provide a vehicle to a needy Southern Maryland family.

The Ordinary

Angler

www.SMSCashBash.org

Fight the Skunk!

By Keith McGuire

For the last few weeks I have included fishing reports in this article and a high degree of optimism. It is true! All of my reports are based on my own experiences or the experiences reported to me by others.

There may be many among you who have taken the time to wet a hook based on my reports only to discover that the fish seem hesitant to cooperate. I, myself, have been thoroughly disappointed that the flounder bite is so slow or that the stripers aren’t breaking like the reports have indicated.

I like to have current reports from readers for these weekly articles. During the weeks that I don’t have any, I tend to tell a story, which I Keith with two big croakers. They aren’t the flounder he was hope you find somewhat enter- looking for, but hey, at least they ain’t skunk. taining. Some weeks, I combine the two.

I fish every week. I had a total of one fishing trip this year where I didn’t catch a fish. That was last Tuesday, July 19, when I launched my boat in advance of the storms that I thought were travelling west to east, north of here, only to discover later that they were drifting south. I launched at Solomon’s, using the public boat ramp under the Thomas Johnson Bridge, and headed to Cove Point. My fishing partner and I watched for breaking fish along the way, but they weren’t there, so it looked like jigging at the shallow/deep water demarcation was the thing to do. No sooner had we made our first two or three casts, when we noticed the storms moving closer.

We reeled in, put the tackle away and headed back to the ramp without a single pull on the line. Skunked! I got the boat back to the ramp and on the trailer before the storms hit. Those of you in the Hollywood area know the rest of the story all too well.

It is extremely rare that I don’t catch fish. On a different trip recently, I decided to fish out of Solomon’s. Like many other trips this year, I fished hard for flounder in the usual places at the mouth of the Patuxent River and in the Bay before giving up and changing tackle to fish for what I thought might be an easier target. I found huge croakers at the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Reef near Cedar Point. I brought home three croakers over 15 inches.

I filet everything. Pan fish have bones and my wife doesn’t like bones. When prepared as a meal with the usual trimmings and sides, three of these croakers were more than we could eat. I had the leftover filets for lunch the next day. The bottom line: it wasn’t flounder, but it made a meal. More importantly, the three croakers completed a fishing trip that would have otherwise been a dismal skunk.

So, if you have fishing trips where you can’t catch the species that you’re targeting, don’t give up without looking for something else. Be prepared with the right bait and tackle that will complete your trip with the tug of at least one fish on the other end of the line. Let’s face it; a fishing trip without a bite is just a boat ride or a visit to the water’s edge. Be prepared and be an opportunist! It could be the difference between a seafood dinner and pizza delivery. riverdancekeith@hotmail.com.

Keith has been a recreational angler on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries for over 50 years; he fishes weekly from his small boat during the season, and spends his free time supporting local conservation organizations.

For more information, please call: 240-587-7111 or email: info@SMSCashBash.org

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Naval Air Station Patuxent River recently hosted the fourth annual NAVAIR Women Moving Forward Symposium, which was attended by approximately 300 women at the River’s Edge conference center on base.

Speakers at the symposium included Lois Frankel, the author of “Nice Girls Just Don’t Get It,” ABC’s Good Morning America legal analyst Dan Abrams and an open panel discussion.

Teresa Heisler, an attendee of the symposium, said she was looking for ideas to “utilize [her] talents to a greater degree” and get ahead in her profession.

Kelly Windsor said this was her first time at the Women Moving Forward Symposium, and she signed up because she thought the speakers and subject matter sounded interesting. She said she’s looking for a way to “find a balance as a working mom,” and “break through the barriers” that are part of stereotypes of women in the workplace.

The 2011 NAVAIR Women Moving Forward award recipient was Karen Frech.

She is an Electronics Engineer at NAS Patuxent River. She was recognized for her outstanding performance and contributions

in her engineering career and local educational opportunities that she has provided to students through the Navy’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program, according to information supplied by the symposium.

In 2008 the Naval Air Systems Command and the Naval Sea Systems Command joined forces to develop the first Women Moving Forward Symposium in La Plata.

The NAVAIR Women’s Symposium grew from that event to one that is solely created

by NAVAIR. The event grew from recognition of the lack of participation by women in non-traditional careers. The participation by women and young girls in STEM programs was another motivator, information from the symposium reads.

Women continue to see declines in these areas even as they are receiving more degrees than men from colleges; they are choosing to go into fields other than STEM, the information reads. The event is an opportunity to bring attention to these areas of low participation as well as a way for women to learn from the experiences of strong role models; create a sense of community; and cultivate mentoring relationships. By

Sarah Miller (CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net

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Lois Frankel, the author of “Nice Girls Just Don’t Get It,” addressed the women at the symposium.

‘Good Grief!’

Peanuts Characters Come to Life The classic Peanuts characters Linus, Lucy, Schroeder, Sally, Snoopy and Charlie Brown are brought to life on the Three Notch Theatre in the Newtowne Players’ final performance of the season – “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” by Clark Gesner.

“I like to think of it like a Pixar movie,” said Ryan Hancock, who plays Charlie Brown.

Like in Pixar films, Hancock said there is a little bit of something for children and adults alike in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.”

Though the actors range in age from high school juniors to college students and graduates and even a mother with children, they have no trouble bringing to life the characters they portray, whose ages range from 5 to 8.

Several times during the play, the children grapple with “adult” topics, like approaching a person they have a crush on, dealing with hard truths about their personalities and negative self images, though the actors never seem to forget that they’re playing children, and making the audience believe that children would come to the conclusions in the play.

Stacey Park, who plays Sally, said she watched her own young children and how they interacted with their world and each other to get acting advice for her 5-year-old character.

Hancock said the play is a way for the actors to “reconnect to childhood” and get in touch with their inner children. Being in touch with his inner child may be what allows Hancock to dispense sage wisdom, like the fact that peanut butter is the food of loneliness, completely dead-pan, and still be funny.

Of course, the crew keeps the show cheerful with pieces like “Beethoven Day,” when the kids declare a new holiday to be celebrated on Beethoven’s birthday, and “Little Known Facts” when Lucy, played by Stephanie Laut, decides to teach her brother Linus, played by Billy Borst, some basic, if

inaccurate, facts of life.

Bradley Silvestro steals the show in his portrayal of Snoopy, whether it be through his antics in the background and chasing rabbits with Sally, or in his solos in “The Red Baron” and “Suppertime.”

The auditions for “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” were interesting. Park said she still has “scars on her knees” from the choreography, and each actor had to perform a 24 bar dance and perform solos for the characters they wanted to play.

They also ran scenes, and the cast was narrowed down to what it is now.

Director Missy Bell said some of the biggest challenges came not from the songs and choreography, but from the air conditioning not working during one rehearsal, causing them to cancel rehersals for the night, a power outage on another night and the turning panels that make up the backdrop not working properly, all problems that have been addressed. Hiccups aside, Bell said the rehearsals “went smoothly.”

The actors agree that “You’re a good man, Charlie Brown,” is a play that will remain relevant in the coming years.

“The emotive power behind it is timeless,” said Tony Oblen, who plays Schroeder.

For some of the actors, the play is a way for them to portray characters they a know and love.

In Park’s case, she said she has been following Charlie Brown since she was a child, and even had a Peanut’s themed birthday party.

“Peanuts has always been a part of my life,” Park said.

For more information, or to reserve tickets, visit www.newtowneplayers.org. The play opens July 30 at 8 p.m. and will run through Aug. 14, with matinees at 3:30 p.m. on Sundays. By Sarah Miller (CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Thursday, August-2011

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