2014-01-30 The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

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The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Thursday January 30, 2014

4 Local News 10 Cops & Courts 12 Business 14 Letters 16 Education 18 Feature Story 22 Navy News 24 Obituaries 26 Newsmaker 27 Community 31 Senior 31 History 32 Community Calendar 34 Entertainment 35 Entertainment Calendar 36 Classifieds 37 Business Directory 38 Games 39 Wanderings of an Aimless Mind 39 Sports

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“I don’t support it, plain and simple.

It opens the door. It’s marijuana today, it’s heroin tomorrow.”

— Del. John F. Wood on why he will not support decriminalizing marijuana.

The County Times

Local

News

Route 5 Bridge Replacement Slated For This Year

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer The State Highway Administration (SHA) is planning on replacing an aging bridge over a stream near the intersection of Willows Road and Route 5 that they say has outlived its usefulness.

While the bridge is small and has been in place for nearly 70 years, the effort to replace it could take as long as a year, according to planning documents sent out by SHA. The new bridge should include metal railings with wider shoulders, SHA information stated, as well as realigned approaches.

The span of the bridge will be longer, according to SHA, which should allow for more water to pass under it and eliminate more instances of flooding.

Construction should begin by the late fall and continue through to the same time frame in 2015 and the entire construction cost of the bridge is projected to be about $4 million.

The project would take place in two stages with the first lane of the new bridge being built alongside the old; once that is completed traffic would shift to the new lane to allow for the demo-

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lition of the old structure.

Once the old structure is demolished the second lane of the bridge would be constructed, SHA has said.

Commissioner Todd Morgan said if the state had the money to spend on the project he would be happy to have it but he questioned if it was really a transportation priority given the long-term traffic problems in places like Leonardtown.

He also worried that portions of Route 5 leading down to Point Lookout were so narrow that he called it “almost impassable” for large vehicles like emergency responders coming in opposite directions.

Add to that the fact that he walked the span of the Route 5 bridge in about 12 steps, he said, and he questioned the hefty price tag.

“I don’t get it, it’s about $4 million to replace that bridge,” Morgan said. “That number shocked me.”

The state estimates as many as 10,000 cars a day travel across the bridge over the Eastern Branch. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Seventh District Firefighters Want Tax Increase

Photo by Guy Leonard Traffic crossing the small bridge near the intersection of Route 5 and Willows Road will have to be shifted to make way for a new bridge span over the Eastern Branch that could take a year to build.

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By Guy Leonard Staff Writer It’s been more than 30 years since the Seventh District fire station was renovated, fire service leaders there say and the time has come for the county to raise the support tax to help bring the facility up to par.

Seventh District Volunteer Fire Department President John Nelson told the Board of County Commissioners Tuesday that they are requesting an increase in the fire and rescue tax from 11 cents per every $100 of assessed value on property to 14 cents.

Nelson said the issues at the firehouse are many but yearly cost increases in fuel, insurance, replacement of equipment, protective gear for firefighters and recruitment and retention were also growing problems.

Moreover the fire department is considering a substation in a portion of their first-due area farther out than their Avenue headquarters, a place where more growth is projected to occur.

By doing so, Nelson said, the volunteers would be able to better serve the community in emergencies.

“If you’re going to survive you’ve got to have fire stations where the people are,” Nelson told commissioners.

The tax increase would bring in an extra $78,000 a year, Nelson said, but the cost to renovate the station in Avenue would be between $800,000 to $1 million to ensure it had showers and sleeping quarters for firefighters.

Nelson said the current tax rate brought in $293,964 in revenue in fiscal 2013, a little less than $4,000 over the previous year; that did nothing to fully defray the costs of daily operations.

Commissioner President Francis Jack Russell (D-St. George Island) said the problems firefighters brought to the county’s attention were legitimate ones.

“It’s almost necessary now for fire stations to have a place for people to stay… for the efficiency of the fire service,” Russell said.

The commissioners voted unanimously to take the firefighters’ request to a public hearing. guyleonard@countytimes.net

HMB JANUARY 2014

Correction:

In last week’s issue of The County Times, the Health, Mind and Body insertion incorrectly labeled the cover photo photographer. The cover photo and feature story photos were taken by Holloway Saunders, Jeff Campbell’s personal trainer.

The County Times apologizes for the misinformation.

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

The County Times

Sheriff to Local News Present Budget this Week

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron says he will present a draft of his agency’s budget to the Citizens Advisory Council tonight in Leonardtown at the Chesapeake Building.

Cameron made a similar presentation to the group last year but this year’s presentation will be different since he has allowed his command staff to present their budget requests for equipment and personnel without any intervention from him.

The sheriff’s office budget for fiscal 2014 was about $34 million.

“I’m allowing it to come forward unfettered,” Cameron said. “I’ve not made any cuts.”

Cameron said the budget document had not been completed as of Tuesday afternoon and likely would not be ready until the day of the presentation.

“This is so important to let the public know what we need and why,” Cameron said of presenting his staff’s requests without cuts.

Cameron released some details of the agency’s proposed budget, however.

His commander of the patrol division has requested eight more deputies, Cameron said, at a total cost of about $1.2 million.

The commander of the Criminal Investigations Division has requested more new detectives, up to three, to fill positions left by state police personnel who were pulled away by their agency to work in their Criminal Enforcement Division.

Cameron’s narcotics commander has also requested two additional detectives to help with street level drug enforcement efforts.

Cameron also said that replacement of vehicles was another significant concern; the county had provided enough money to replace about 10 police vehicles but according to the county’s own vehicle maintenance standards, he said, the agency needed to replace as many as 50 vehicles.

There are about 200 vehicles in the sheriff’s office fleet, Cameron said. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Bohanan Seeks to Restructure Tri-County Council

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer Delegate John L. Bohanan, Jr. (D-29B) introduced legislation on Jan. 23 that would efficiently deconstruct and restructure the Tri-County Council of Southern Maryland.

The council is comprised of 37 to 38 members, 90 percent of whom are elected officials, Bohanan said.

“It’s too big to get much done.”

His proposed legislation would equalize the balance between public and private sectors in the council, Bohanan said.

“It’s pretty clear to anybody that something needs to be done about the tri county council,” Bohanan said.

The proposed legislation would decrease council membership to 15, with two representatives selected at the county level for each county and the rest would be appointed by the general assembly.

According to the General Assembly of Maryland website, it would require council members to serve at the pleasure of the individuals or the board that appointed the members. The legislation provides for the term of office for the county commissioner position on the council and requires the responsibility for appointing the county commissioner position to alternate among the Board of County Commissioners of Calvert County, Charles County, and St. Mary's County. In addition, the legislation requires the Council to elect a chair from among its private sector members.

Opinions on the matter are mixed. St. Mary’s County Commissioner President Francis Jack Russell and Commissioner Todd Morgan believe Bohanan should not have put the legislation forward. The TriCounty Council is in the midst of a self-study effort, Morgan said. They have a new executive director and recently identified a number of “pillars” to focus on. He said any efforts to restructure the council should wait at least a year to see if current efforts to refocus the council are successful.

Council Executive Board Chairman and Calvert County Board of County Commissioners Vice President Steve Weems said the matter had been brought up before and the legislation will be discussed at a future meeting. It’s Bohanan’s prerogative to put forward whatever legislation he feels necessary, Weems said, and the council will address changes as they come.

Senator Thomas V. Mike Miller (D-27) supports the legislation, adding the council needs to focus on “maximizing resources” available in the area, such as private sector experts in science and technology and a host of former and current United States Navy employees. Giving the general community more of a voice in the tri-county council could help “the incubation and creation of jobs,” Miller said.

For more information about the Maryland General Assembly, including legislation being considered, visit msa.maryland.gov. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

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Local

News

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer “It’s an exciting time for men and women working in the transportation industry,” said Deputy Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation and Calvert County resident Wilson Parran during the Jan. 23 meeting of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, held at the Lowes Hotel in Annapolis.

He talked about coming projects to design and replace the Governor Thomas Johnson and Harry Nice bridges, planning projects to improve routes 5 and 231 and expand route 4.

Additionally, Parran spoke to the council and Southern Maryland representatives about transportation funding in the future.

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Outlook on Maryland Transportation ”Exciting” Even though things are looking positive at the state level, Parran warned the council that the state could see a dramatic decrease in federal transportation funding. The level of funding from the federal level could adversely affect projects in the future.

Senator Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. (D27) concurred with Parran and advised the state move slowly with the red and purple metro lines and use funding for roads and bridges instead.

In other news during the meeting, Charles County Commissioner President Candice Quinn Kelly stepped down from her role as Tri-County Council Chairperson.

Calvert County Commissioner President Steve Weems will lead the council in the coming year.

Kelly will not be running for another

Photos by Sarah Miller

term as Charles County Commissioner President, instead having decided to declare her intention to run for a seat in the House of Delegates in the coming election.

Governor Martin O’Malley came to the meeting following his State of the State address.

“Why wake up in the morning if you don’t want to do better?” O’Malley asked, adding that Maryland is number one in terms of job growth in the country, but there is always room for improvement. The state has not done well enough in terms of pairing veterans with jobs, O’Malley said.

A number of jobs created were mostly

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government positions, not in the private sector, Calvert County Commissioner Evan K. Slaughenhoupt, Jr. The Tri-County Council is made up of members of the local delegation, representatives from all three boards of county commissioners, a member of the planning commission of economic development commission from each county, and a citizen member from each county.

For more information, visit www.tccsmd.org. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Planning Commission Says No to Developing Former Lexington Manor

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

301.373.2142

6

After several months of debating over how to revise the Lexington Park Development District Master Plan the county planning commission came to a consensus that developing the former Lexington Manor property, also known as the flat tops, was not a good idea.

County planners have been pushing for the idea since the draft of the master plan was revealed last year but a quick straw poll conducted by the commission’s chair Howard Thompson showed most members of the commission felt the 34-acre plot of land, that once hosted the worst and most concentrated number of blighted homes in the county, should remain undeveloped.

One of the main points of contention the commission has had to deal with is the push to redevelop the downtown portion of Lexington Park, long left to age and with dwindling new business prospects, but ensure that it does not encroach on aircraft safety accident potential zones Patuxent River Naval Air Station requires to complete its test and evaluation for military

planes.

One of the key drivers in the planning process has been the 2009 agreement between the county and the navy to restrict redevelopment in the portion of Lexington Park closest to the base to just 50 people per acre.

Robin Finnacom, director of the county’s Department of Economic and Community Development, said that while the county had planned to try and develop the Lexington Manor property what would have been built there would not have been economically viable.

She agreed with the board’s recommendation on how to proceed with that aspect of the master plan.

“I think that was totally appropriate given the restrictions of what could be developed there,” Finnacom said. “It’s just not supportable in the marketplace.”

The issue of redevelopment will continue to be a key point in the ongoing debate over the plan, she said.

“That’s what they’re wrestling with,” Finnacom said. guyleonard@countytimes.net

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

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Local

Thursday, January 30, 2014

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News

County’s Unfettered Surplus Stands at $23.5 Million

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer An audit of last year’s financial records of local government shows the county has $23.5 million in unassigned fund balances, about $17 million of which has accumulated over a span of four years ending in 2011.

The county’s independent auditor Timothy Murphy praised the government’s fiscal leadership over the past several years and reported that the county’s net assets once again increased.

“Your net assets increased by about $12 million,” Murphy told the Board of County Commissioners. “And St. Mary’s County is heads above your peers with $20 million pre-paid for OPEB (other post employment benefits.)”

The audit showed that the county’s net assets outpaced its liabilities by $266.7 million and that its combined fund balances from various sources come to $95.5

million.

Commissioner Todd Morgan (R-Lexington Park) said the surplus outlined in the annual audit amounted to a buffer for the county to deal with lean times.

Last year the county announced it had a $30 million surplus that it dedicated mostly to infrastructure improvements and other county employee benefits.

Morgan said the county had already spent $10 million to repair and renovate Spring Ridge Middle School which had suffered fire damage to several of its classrooms and may have to spend more to help fund the construction of other schools.

“I think right now the county is in good financial shape,” Morgan said. “My concern is for the future because there’s more Department of Defense cuts coming that are going to effect the local workforce.

“It’s like a savings account, it takes you years to accumulate it and if you blow it all it takes years to build it back up.”

Commissioner Larry Jarboe (R-

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“If we’re $23 million in surplus then lets have some sensible tax relief,” Jarboe said. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Legislators Signal Action On MetCom Fee Collection Authority

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer A letter from the St. Mary’s County delegation leader to the head of the Metropolitan Commission (MetCom) shows that legislators are ready to act to possibly curb the water and sewer agency’s ability to take homeowners who are delinquent on their service charges to tax sale.

“The members of the St. Mary’s County delegation to the General Assembly have been reading articles about the commission’s bill collection practices,” wrote Del. John Bohanan. “The members of the delegation do not want individual homeowners to be subject to losing their homes due to a delinquent water and sewer bill.”

Bohanan went on to ask for recommendations from MetCom director Dan Ichniowski about alternatives to going to tax sale.

Bohanan stated in his letter dated Jan. 23 that “if such recommended changes should require a change in statute, the delegation has made it clear we would support

such a change.”

The issue came to a head starting late last year when an elderly Leonardtown resident, Combs Toney, was in arrears about $700 due to MetCom for sewage service he was not even receiving.

MetCom had placed such a sewage line in front of his home years ago to better serve the community in which he lived but Toney, who has lived in his house since the 1930s, never hooked up.

But, up until recently, Toney had always paid the service charge though he received no services from the line.

His recent refusal to pay the charges to MetCom threatened to put his home up for tax sale but a St. Mary’s College of Maryland professor who heard of his plight paid for Toney’s bill.

A MetCom representative told The County Times that they were in receipt of Bohanan’s letter and were drafting a response. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Health Department to Begin Perc Tests Due to high seasonal groundwater levels, the St. Mary’s County Health Department will begin wet season perc testing on Feb. 3. Perc testing was suspended in May 2013 due to declining groundwater levels.

Perc test applications received since May which were not able to be conducted will be scheduled first. While the levels are high enough for testing, the testing may not run continuously through the winter and early spring. The water table may recede causing the testing to be suspended; testing would be resumed when tables rebound to wet season ranges.

Environmental Health specialists at the Health Department conduct soil evaluations for the construction of residential and commercial septic systems. They also evaluate soil for replacement septic systems when the current septic systems fail. The application for a new construction perc test is located at the St. Mary’s County Department of Land Use and Growth Management (LUGM) and requires a fee. The application can be found by logging on to the St. Mary’s County Government website at www.stmarysmd.com. Click on Land Use and Growth Management under Citizen Services. All permit applications are available for download from the Permits page.

The LUGM Department is located in the Patuxent Building on the Governmental Center Campus in Leonardtown.

For more information, please contact the St. Mary’s County Health Department Environmental Health Division at 301-475-4321, the St. Mary’s County Land Use and Growth Management Department’s Permit Services at 301-475-4200 x1500, or the Health Department’s website at www.smchd.org

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

The County Times

Push to Legalize Marijuana Has Local Lawmakers, Police Worried

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Proponents of legalizing or at least decriminalizing marijuana point to the revenues the state stands to reap in the process from its regulation but legislators here as well as police say the liabilities far outweigh any perceived gains from bringing marijuana into the legal mainstream.

Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron, who had experience as a narcotics investigator before coming to head the agency, said marijuana often led users to experiment with other more powerful narcotics that no one has posited should be legalized such as cocaine, prescription narcotics and heroin.

“It comes down to public safety for me,” Cameron said in an interview with The County Times. “My experience is that I’ve seen it become a gateway drug.”

He took particular issue with statements like the one made recently by Del. Sheila Hixson, a supporter of regulating

marijuana, who said: “Why prop up drug cartels and gangs instead of licensed businesses that pay taxes and create jobs?”

“So what’s next? Do we legalize cocaine and heroin? Because that’s what cartels are into, why just marijuana?”

Cameron said. “There’s a flaw in that thinking.”

Capt. Daniel Alioto, commander of the sheriff’s office vice/narcotics division, said law officers have had their hands full contending with an increase in drugged drivers who abuse prescription medications; he predicted marijuana would have a similar effect here.

Legislation under consideration in Annapolis would allow possession of marijuana in an amount less than 10 grams with only civil penalties as consequences; criminal penalties would only exist for amounts above that amount.

“You’re always asking for trouble when you legalize something just to tax it,” Alioto said. “It’s going to have a huge impact on our roadways. We’ve already

Commissioners to Host Public Forum Feb. 4 The St. Mary's Board of County Commissioners will host a Public Forum on Tuesday, Feb. 4 beginning at 6:30 p.m. The forum will take place in the Commissioners meeting room inside the Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street, Leonardtown, Maryland. Citizens are invited to attend the forum and address the commissioners.

The Public Forum will air live, and be videotaped for subsequent broadcast, on St. Mary's County Government TV 95 (SMCG TV 95). The forum can also be viewed on the county's website at www.stmarysmd.com. Click on the SMCG TV 95 icon on the upper right of the screen or log on to www.stmarysmd.com/broadcast.asp and click View at the top of the screen.

Those wishing to speak at the Public Forum will be allowed up to three (3) minutes to address the Commissioners. Anyone wishing to provide more detailed comments may do so in writing, via email or regular mail.

The Board of County Commissioners can be reached by e-mail at bocc@stmarysmd.com or by mail at Board of County Commissioners for St. Mary's County, P.O. Box 653, Leonardtown, Md. 20650.

Consumers Requested to Conserve Electricity Record-breaking electricity use possible due to extreme cold PJM Interconnection, the electricity grid operator for more than 61 million people in 13 states (including Maryland) and the District Columbia is asking consumers to conserve electricity today. The call for conservation is prompted by another wave of frigid weather that will push up the demand for electricity.

The request is being made throughout the entire area. The demand for electricity and the need for conservation is expected to be highest this evening.

PJM asks everyone to conserve electricity, if health permits – especially from

5 p.m. to 9 p.m.. Electricity customers can take simple steps to conserve: • Set thermostats lower than usual, if health permits • Postpone using major electric appliances such as stoves, dishwashers, and clothes dryers until the midday hours or after 9 p.m., when the demand for electricity decreases • Turn off electric lights an appliances that you do not need or are not using Conserving electricity will help ensure adequate power supplies. PJM is continuing to monitor power supply conditions.

seen it with pills and we’ll see it again with marijuana if it’s legalized.”

Law makers here say that pushing to decriminalize one of the most abundant street narcotics sends the wrong message to the public when St. Mary’s County and other nearby jurisdictions are facing what health officials and law enforcement have called a growing epidemic of prescription opiate abuse and rising heroin addiction and overdoses.

The former feeds the latter, they say.

“We’re dealing with an almost epidemic abuse of opiates and heroin,” said Del. Anthony O’Donnell (R-Dist. 29C).

“This sends a message that it’s no big deal to be involved with drugs.”

Del. John F. Wood (D-Dist. 29A) was more direct.

“I don’t support it, plain and simple,” Wood said. “It opens the door. It’s marijuana today, it’s heroin tomorrow.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

Local

News Results Are in from Leonardtown Shopping and Dining Vote Below please find the tallies of the voting from the “Ring In & Resolve to Shop & Dine in Leonardtown” Campaign, a campaign in which voters chose where their favorite place to shop or dine in Leonardtown is.

First Place – Fenwick Street used Books and Music with 30% of the votes Second place – Crazy for Ewe with 12% of the votes Third place – Opal Art Gallery with 9% And 4th place – The Good Earth Natural Foods Co. with 6% Honorable mention – The Maryland Antiques Center and the Craft Guild Shop with 5% each The North End Gallery and Café des Artistes with 4% each

Cops & Courts Charlotte Hall Store Suffers $1 Million in Fire Damage

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Investigators with the state Fire Marshal’s office say that a problem with the electrical wiring of the heating and air conditioning system in the attic of the Southern States store in Charlotte Hall led to the fire Tuesday morning that caused about $1 million in damage.

The showroom portion of the building on Three Notch Road took the brunt of the damage, fire investigators said, but the warehouse portion was untouched.

The fire alarm went out at about 3:30 a.m. and 35 firefighters from Mechanicsville, Hughesville, Benedict and Waldorf responded to fight the blaze, fire marshals reported.

It took the firefighters about 15 minutes to control the blaze.

There were no injuries reported, fire marshals stated.

The County Times

10

Police: Man Fires Shotgun in Domestic Row place.

When the victim’s father came to the home to confront Flynn, police alleged that Flynn fired another shot in Police say that a domestic arguthe father’s direction. ment between a man and his girlFlynn then went back inside and friend Monday became so heated acquired a handgun but the victim’s fathat he took a shotgun and fired it ther was able to take the weapon away through the back door of their resifrom Flynn, police said, and subdued dence, putting his girlfriend in fear him until police arrived on the scene. of her life.

Detectives with the sheriff’s ofSt. Mary’s County deputies arfice Criminal Investigations Division rested Kyle J. Flynn, 22, of Hollyarrested and charged Flynn with four wood at their home shortly after the counts of first-degree assault, four incident but he remains incarcerated Flynn counts of reckless endangerment, two at the county’s adult detention cencounts of second-degree assault and the use of a ter, according to on-line court records.

The girl fled the home with her child, police handgun in the commission of a felony. said, and Flynn then went outside and fired more shots at two other people who were in a vehicle guyleonard@countytimes.net near the driveway where the initial incident took

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

guyleonard@countytimes.net

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Drug Overdose Leads to Man’s Arrest

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Police have arrested and charged a man for drug possession after they found him next to a deceased victim of a drug overdose in Mechanicsville last week.

Court records show that Lawrence Hoffman, 19, of Hollywood has since been released on bond after being charged with possessing illegal prescription narcotics, a minor theft count and two counts of possessing drug paraphernalia.

Charging papers filed in District Court state police detained Hoffman after they arrived at a Morganza Turn-

er Road address for the report of an overdose death.

Officers alleged that they found 33 alprazolam pills on Hoffman that belonged to the victim of the overdose, identified as Harrell Thomas Morgan.

Police say they found Hoffman’s vehicle parked outside the house with the motor still running; in the center console police say they found a plastic straw with a brown residue, which they suspected was oxycodone.

They continued their search of Hoffman’s car and found a digital scale which they allege contained marijuana. guyleonard@countytimes.net

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SHERIFF’S BLOTTER

Cops & Courts

The following information is compiled directly from publicly released police reports.

On Jan. 22 Deputy T. Snyder, of the Lexington Park COPs UNIT, responded to the area of Great Mills Road and the Willows Road after the Emergency Communications Center broadcast a lookout for a white truck that had struck several vehicles in an area parking lot. Callers informed the ECC the vehicle had lost control and came to rest in a ditch. The driver was attempting to exit the vehicle.

Deputy Snyder located the vehicle and made contact with the driver, who continued to press the accelerator of the vehicle.

As Deputy Snyder made his way around the truck, the driver suddenly exited and attempted to flee on foot. Deputy Snyder attempted to take the driver into custody he repeatedly pulled away. Additional deputies arrived on the scene and the driver was placed under arrest. The driver was identified as Joshua Michael Cole, 25, of Lexington Park. Deputy Snyder’s investigation revealed Cole was leaving the Lexington Bar parking lot when he struck 3 vehicles then left the scene. Cole was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Resisting Arrest and numerous traffic offenses to include leaving the scene of an accident and Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.

On Jan. 26 Deputy Pleisse responded to a residence in California, for a reported assault. The victim alleged suspect

Don Alexander Smith, 27, of California, Maryland, assaulted the victim during an argument involving a third party in the residence. Smith allegedly grabbed the victim from behind and threw the victim to the floor on two occasions.

Deputy Pleisse observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim. Smith was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 2nd Degree Assault.

On Jan. 26 Corporal D. Snyder responded to a residence in Lexington Park for a reported assault. The victim alleged suspect Timotheus James, 36, of Lexington Park, threw the victim to the floor during an argument. Corporal Snyder observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim and James was placed under arrest. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with 2nd Degree Assault.

On Jan. 25 Deputy Knott responded to a residence in the 23000 block of Point Lookout Road for a violation of a protective order. The victim alleged suspect Camillha Lashay Somerville, 19, of Leonardtown, had been permitted to stay at the victim’s residence because she had nowhere to go. However an argument took placed between the victim and Somerville at which time the victim observed a box cutter in Somerville’s hand. The pro-

tective order was confirmed active and Somerville was placed under arrest. She was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Violation of a Protective Order.

On Jan. 24 Corporal Maletto responded to a residence in Lexington Park for a suspicious incident. His investigation revealed witnesses called police after seeing suspect Michael Wayne Smith, 40, of Lexington Park; exiting a residence he had been told to stay away from.

The owner of the residence was not home at the time and confirmed Smith was not allowed inside the residence. Evidence on the scene supported entry had been made. Smith was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 4th Degree Burglary to a Dwelling and Trespass: Private Property.

On Jan. 24 Deputy John Davis responded to a residence on Rosebank Road in Leonardtown for a reported assault in progress. The victim alleged suspect Brian Anthony Cave 19, of Brandywine, struck the victim in the face with his fist during an argument. Cave then fled on foot from the scene. Deputy Davis observed a fresh laceration above the victim’s eye. Deputy Davis located the suspect and placed him under arrest. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County

Sheriff Tim Cameron Welcomes Four New Deputies

On Jan. 28, Sheriff Tim Cameron along with several civilian and sworn members of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office watched as four new Deputies were sworn into office. Sheriff Cameron then presented each Deputy with their Sheriff’s Office badge and credentials.

Deputy Amber R. Logue #290 Deputy Matthew L. McCuen #291 Deputy Brian P. Fennessey #292 Deputy Rachael L. Roszell #296 The deputies will graduate from the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy on Friday, Jan. 31.

The men and women of the Sheriff’s Office wish them all the best and welcome them to our law enforcement family.

Detention Center and charged with 2nd Degree Assault.

On Jan. 27 Deputy Anthony Cole responded to a residence located on Essex Drive in Lexington Park for a domestic assault in progress. Upon Deputy Cole’s arrival, he heard loud crashing noises coming from down stairs. He responded down stairs and found suspect James Delonte Butler, 30, of Lexington Park, actively destroying property. Butler was ordered to stop by deputies and he refused.

Butler was asked if he had anything in his pockets at which time he removed a box and indicated there was marijuana in the box. Butler was placed into custody. The investigation revealed an argument took place between Butler and the victim. The victim managed to go into another room and look the door. Butler began pounding on the door and then kicked it in. Once inside, Butler struck the victim in the face with his fist. Deputy Cole returned to the suspect who was seated in a police car and advised him he was under arrest.

Butler began to scream threats to harm the victim and everyone inside the residence, which caused a disturbance. Butler was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with 2nd Degree Assault, Possession Controlled Dangerous Substance – Marijuana, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, and Malicious Destruction of Property.

The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

12

Business News

Crafting Up Crochet Smiles

By Kimberly Alston Contributing Writer Patricia Humphries has taken what was simply a part time hobby and has turned it into a fulltime business operation. Krafty Krochet Hats was thought up and implemented in 2012, although Humphries has been crocheting for almost 11 years. She got the idea to create a business out of her crafts after a friend of hers, who was having a baby, could not find a hat to fit his head and asked Humphries if she could create one.

After that first hat, Humphries decided to start selling her creations because, “some of the stuff that can be found online can get crazy expensive and I know what I could afford to pay.” Each of her hats sell for $10 as opposed to what can be found on the internet for anywhere between $25 and $30.

Humphries said that she can create a hat just by looking at a picture on the internet. In the last two years, Humphries has created over 200 hats including ones that look like footballs, mohawks, domos, minions and more. Besides hats, Humphries has created dog socks for Chihuahuas, blankets for baby showers and has even made scarves to ship overseas to Afghanistan for the troops.

“All the details of a piece are up to the customer,” Humphries said. Each one of her pieces are individuals and she said that while she can make two pieces that look similar, they will not be the exact same because each person has their own ideas of what they want a piece to look like.

Typically, it takes between one to two weeks to meet make and mail off a crochet piece. “I take a lot of pride in my work and do everything by hand,” Humphries said, “It’s what sets me apart from big name places.”

While Humphries and Krafty Krochet Hats are located in Broome’s Island, she has created pieces for people in Calvert and St, Mary’s County as well. For more information on Krafty Krochet Hats, visit the Facebook page, www.facebook.com/kraftykrochethats, the website, kraftykrochethats.webs.com, email Humphries at kraftykrochethats@hotmail.com or call 443-532-0008

Pictures courtesy of Krafty Krochet Hats

kimberlyalston@countytimes.net

Liberty Tax Service Celebrates a Grand Opening in Leonardtown Liberty Tax Service of Leonardtown announces its new location at 21899 Budds Creek Road, at the corner of Route 5 and Budds Creek Road, just north of Wendy’s and Mr. Tire. “Our new Leonardtown store is a welcome addition to our four other locations now serving the Southern Maryland community,” says Ron Tucker, the Veteran owner of the franchise here. He continues, “Now in our ninth year in the area, our friendly tax professionals always offer free tax advice and group seminars to include a special seminar available on the Affordable Care Act.” The office manager will be Linda Vermillion, tax professional with almost 30 years preparing taxes and the training manager for Ron. “Yes, tax season can be a crazy time, but we love seeing all of our customers and catch up on happenings over the past year,” says Linda “We are excited about this new store in Leonardtown. Liberty Tax is the fastest growing tax business in history,” said John Hewitt, CEO and founder of Liberty Tax Service. “We pledge quality computerized tax preparation and superb customer service to the people of Southern Maryland.”

Liberty Tax Service of Leonardtown will employ numerous tax preparers, marketers, and other office staff for the tax season, you may have seen the iconic Lady Liberty waving at your car as you drove along other store locations in Southern Maryland.

Correction:

In a Business Feature published in the Jan. 23 edition of The County Times, titled “Fit U Promotes Personalized Fitness in Leonardtown”, The County Times inadvertently left out Fit U’s phone number and website.

To contact Fit U, please call 240-298-1762.

You can also visit them on the web at www.fitutraining360.com

Agreement Aims to Spur Technology Business Growth

The St. Mary’s Board of County Commissioners has approved a memorandum of agreement with the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) to provide the County with start-up technology business mentoring and development.”Technology business development will play a larger role in diversifying the County’s future economy,” stated Jack Russell, Commissioner President. “Drawing expertise from TEDCO now gives us a head start on broadening economy opportunities in St. Mary’s County.”

TEDCO was created by the Maryland State Legislature in 1998 to facilitate the transfer and commercialization of technology from Maryland’s research universities and federal labs into the marketplace and to assist in the creation and growth of technology-based businesses in all regions of the State. Advancing technology transfer from the Naval Air Station Patuxent River to stimulate business development is a key component of the work TEDCO will perform for the County.

“We’ve worked directly with NAS Patuxent River and TEDCO over the last six months to bring greater attention to technology business opportunities with the launch of the Southern Maryland Innovation and Technology initiative,” stated Robin Finnacom, Acting Director, SMC Department of Economic and Community Development. “The agreement with TEDCO allows us to begin to continue to nurture business growth as a critical feature of diversifying the County’s future economy.

TEDCO currently provides Rural Business Innovation Initiative services to Southern Maryland’s start-up and small technology-based businesses. Professional mentoring is offered at no cost to help companies and individuals succeed. “TEDCO welcomes this unique partnership and looks forward to creating a solid foundation for technology business growth in St. Mary’s County,” stated John Wasilisin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for TEDCO. The approved agreement with TEDCO, coupled with the County’s ongoing support from the Small Business Technology Development Center, will bring attention and added services to St. Mary’s County’s entrepreneurs. For more information about the MOA, contact Robin Finnacom in the Department of Economic and Community Development at 301-475-4200, ext. 1407.

13

The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

CONVERT

YOUR

TANK TO TANKLESS!

Call us today for a free estimate on converting your hot water system to a more efficient tankless system.

Mention our ad and receive a $500.00 discount on the unit and installation.

STEP 4

STEP 2

STEP 1

A hot water tap is turned on.

Cold water enters the heater & the flow sensor detects the water flow.

STEP 3

The computer automatically ignites the burner.

Water circulates through the heat exchanger.

The burner heats the water to the designated temperature.

HOW DOES A TANKLESS WORK? The obvious difference between a tank and a tankless is its size.

Not only will you gain significant space, but you’ll also get endless hot water with a tankless.

Noritz tankless water heaters last longer than traditional tank water heaters and are backed up with a 12-year warranty.

STEP 5

With a tankless, you won’t be using hot water that is stored in a tank that can accumulate scale and rust over time. Noritz units allow you to set the temperature you want.

The Noritz tankless water heater provides an endless stream of hot water. When the tap is turned off, the unit shuts off.

SPACE SAVING CALCULATION A traditional tank-type water heater takes up to 13 ft2 of space. If 1 ft2 is worth $200, that’s $2,600 (13 ft2 x $200) worth of space you could be saving at Noritz. * Installation must conform with local codes, or in the absence of local codes, the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223. 1/NFPA 54.

Taylor Gas Company, Inc

21541 Great Mills Road Lexington Park, MD 20653 (301) 862-1000 or 1-855-764-(4GAS) 4427

The County Times

Letters to the

Editor

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL COMMISSIONERS OF LEONARDTOWN CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, INSPECTION AND TESTING SERVICES FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT UPGRADE The Commissioners of Leonardtown are accepting sealed Proposal’s for Construction Management, Inspection, and Testing Services for the Upgrade of Leonardtown Wastewater Treatment Plant Enhanced Nutrient Removal (ENR) project. The project was designed by GHD Inc. (Engineer). The Town will be looking for a Construction Manager having qualifications and specific experience in the successful completion of this type of construction and who submits a proposal providing the “Best Value” as determined by the Town as described in the proposal package for the Commissioners of Leonardtown, Attention Town Administrator, and will be received from qualified Proposers at any time and up to 10:00 a.m. on February 26, 2014 at the Commissioners of Leonardtown, POB 1, 41660 Courthouse Drive, Leonardtown, MD 20650.

A Pre-Proposal meeting will be held in the Commissioners of Leonardtown Conference Room, 41660 Courthouse Drive, Leonardtown, MD, 20650 on February 19, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. It is highly recommended that all interested proposers attend this meeting and conduct a site visit.

Proposal packages may be picked up at the Town Office at a nonrefundable cost of $10.00 per package (including sales tax) or per copy on a compact disc.

Electronically submitted bid proposals will not be accepted. All vendors wishing to submit a proposal should obtain an original set of documents or a compact disc from the Commissioners of Leonardtown.

Changes or addendums to this proposal and/or other documents will be sent directly to vendors who have obtained an original set of proposal documents or a compact disc from the Town Office. The Town is not responsible for information obtained from sources outside the Commissioners of Leonardtown Office.

The Commissioners of Leonardtown reserve the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive technicalities, irregularities and/or informalities in any proposal, and to make an award in any manner, consistent with the law, deemed in the best interest of the Town. All bids are based upon budgetary constraints.

The Commissioners of Leonardtown 1/30/2013

Well, here we are again. It’s tax filing season and your Saint Mary’s County AARP Tax-Aides are almost done with our training and IRS certifications.

We have twenty some preparers ready, able, and willing to provide our neighbors with free tax preparation assistance to ensure you pay only the federal and state taxes required by law.

Our program helps low and moderate income taxpayers with a special emphasis on seniors but every year we help teenagers with their first job, their parents, and their grandparents properly fill out the required forms and electronically file the forms for them. To do this we have regular sites at the three County Senior Centers, the Callaway Baptist Church, and next to McKay's on Great Mills Road. Appointments must be made in advance for most sites by calling 301-884-8370, but we do take walk-in taxpayers at the Great Mills Road store front. Days and hours vary which is why calling our number can help you fit your schedule with our availability. Information is also available at www.smctaxaide.org.

We ask that you bring in all paperwork showing income (W-2’s, 1099’s, interest, and dividend statements) as well as forms showing expenses (1098’s and broker statements). Don’t forget those 1040 and 502 forms from 2012 as having them sometimes helps us save you taxes on this year’s return. If you have paperwork that you are not sure affects your taxes, please bring it with you and we will check it for you.

We begin preparing returns the first week in February and continue through the April filing deadline. We look forward to seeing you and helping sort through the tax laws and forms. Even if you are preparing your own return and just need to clarify a question or two, stop in and we will try to provide you with the answers. Also, remember that the Senior Centers are County offices so you can be any age to see us there.

Glenn Weder Hollywood, Md. IRS Certified Preparer

New Year’s Greetings Alumni, Classmates, and Shipmates!

On behalf of the Greater Southern Maryland Chapter, I cordially invite you to join us for this year’s “Dark Ages” Dinner. This year’s Dark Ages Dinner will again be held at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training, Piney Point, MD, on Friday, 7 February 2014. Cocktails begin at 1830; call to dinner at 1925; dinner served at 1930. Installation of Officers and limited remarks will follow dinner. Please make your reservations and pay for dinner on-line by visiting the GSMC website, http://www.navyalumni.org/.

Alternately you may RSVP by replying to Program Chairman via e-mail: Richard.L.Snyder@saic.com.

The cost is $37.00 per person (same as last year) which includes gratuity and choice of wine with dinner.

Lodging Option. At the request of several members last year, lodging at the Paul Hall Center hotel

is available for Friday night. Check-in Friday at the Reception Desk before dinner; check-out Saturday morning. The cost is $93.00 per room based on double occupancy. Reservations are required at least 48 hours prior. To reserve a room please again e-mail: Richard.L.Snyder@saic.com or enter a note in the comments section with your RSVP. Payment will be made at the time of Check-in. Most major credit cards are accepted.

Our “Dark Ages” Dinner has proven to be a great way to beat the winter blahs and lift your spirits! We all look forward to you joining us for a great time.

Captain Stuart J. Fitrell, USN (Ret.) Hollywood, Md.

James Manning McKay - Founder

Eric McKay -Associate Publisher..................................ericmckay@countytimes.net

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

www.countytimes.net

14

It’s Tax Filing Season…

LEGAL NOTICES

By Authority: Laschelle E. McKay, Town Administrator.

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Contributing Writers:

Angie Stalcup - Editorial Production Manager...........angiestalcup@countytimes.net

Kimberly Alston

Guy Leonard - Reporter - Government, Crime...............guyleonard@countytimes.net

Laura Joyce

Tobie Pulliam - Office Manager..............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.net

Ron Guy Debra Meszaros

KayPoiro-Reporter-Business, Education, Entertainment..........kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Shelby Oppermann

KaseyRussell- Graphic Designer.......................................kaseyrussell@countytimes.net

Terri Schlichenmeyer

Sarah Miller- Reporter - Community..............................sarahmiller @countytimes.net Sales Representatives......................................................................sales@countytimes.net

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD To Submit a Letter to the Editor, Email your letter to news@countytimes.net or mail to The County Times • P.O. Box 250, • Hollywood, MD 20636

Linda Reno Doug Watson

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

The County Times

By limiting construction noise, traffic and other potential inconveniences, we’ll protect what makes Calvert County unique.

Dominion’s Cove Point project will have a very positive impact on the local economy.

Thousands of construction jobs, 75 high-paying permanent positions and tens of millions in annual county revenue will add to what’s already been a four-decade commitment to Calvert County and protecting the Chesapeake Bay. Plus, since the project will definitely be built somewhere, it’s nice to know that the people who live and work here will enjoy its economic benefits.

Cove Point—another great solution for Southern Maryland.

To learn more visit dom.com/covepoint

@Dom_CovePoint

The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

16

Education EASMC: Teacher Workload, Stress Has Reached “Tipping Point”

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer At a workload task force meeting this month, St. Mary’s County teachers met with representatives from the teacher’s union Education Association of St. Mary’s County (EASMC) to discuss their mounting workload and subsequent stress levels. Teacher representation was present from levels pre-K up to high school.

In response to an email for participation from the union, current EASMC President Anna Laughlin says they received a record 97 emails in return.

Laughlin, a schoolteacher with over 30 years in the classroom says, although all teachers work hard, teachers in St. Mary’s County are extraordinary. They are also under tremendous pressure.

“Every time someone like Michelle Rhee gets a wild hair, it becomes law.

No-one ever stops to consider how a new mandate translates into man hours.”

Rhee, the controversial former Chancellor of Washington, D.C. public schools, became a figurehead for choicebased education, advocating the abolishment of teacher tenure and championing accountability based on student performance on standardized tests.

Laughlin says that mandates such as No Child Left Behind and Race to the Top have left teachers inundated with paperwork and data collection used to justify pedagogical choices in working with children in their classes. Additional paperwork is required hen explaining why those who are not succeeding, as well as how the teacher plans to remedy the situation.

“In some schools, teachers are being told that chronic absenteeism is no excuse for failing grades and failing grades are evidence of ineffective teaching,” Laughlin told The County Times.

“Teachers feel they are being bullied into perpetrating a fraud by passing students who don’t deserve to pass just so

the numbers look great.”

She says the end results are severe.

“Teachers are leaving the profession,” says Laughlin. “Those who are staying are starting to exhibit a whole host of stress related illnesses.” Laughlin says she has heard teachers lament, “I just don’t love my job anymore.”

Laughlin goes on to criticize “foolish legislation that threatens to ruin careers and paint a false picture of the efforts of whole school systems that people are feeling demoralized and devalued.”

Continuing to combat the issue, EASMC often speaks at public comment, as well as invite teachers to workshops where they can be taught to empower themselves to draw the line at unrealistic demands and provide them with tips to manage rising work and stress levels.

Laughlin stresses the importance of St. Mary’s County recognizing the issues their teachers face day in and day out.

“Teachers are people, too. They

have spouses and children of their own,” Laughlin explains. “It takes a special person with an overdeveloped sense of empathy and giving to be a teacher.”

To learn more about EASMC, visit www.easmc.net. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Superintendent: Additional Funds Required to Maintain Excellence in SMCPS

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer At the Budget Work Session on Tuesday, Superintendent Michael J. Martirano presented his budget for FY 2015. In it, he asks for an operating budget of a little over $200 million, an increase of $12.8 million dollars over the previous year.

Although funds will be allocated for the advancement of programs such as the Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) and the Academy of Visual and Performing Arts, Martirano stressed the need for additional personnel, including 31 new positions. These positions will be used to fulfill the basic needs of the school system, he says, as well as staff the new Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary School scheduled to open in Leonardtown next school year.

Martirano says that, although St. Mary’s County Public Schools display an outward level of excellence, the school system isn’t without its challenges.

Major areas of concern mentioned were

supervisory support for a school transportation system stressed by the addition of Head Start and Pre-K programs, as well as the need for a Supervisor of School Psychological Services.

According to Dr. Charles E. Ridgell, Director of Student Services, the recommended school psychologist to student ratio is 1:700.

Currently, St. Mary’s County Public Schools have one psychologist to nearly 2,000 students.

The Superintendent challenged county elected officials and community members to shift their focus from the dollar amount toward a larger goal.

Martirano says “As a county, we need to ask what is our collective vision and how do we get there?”

The Public Budget Hearing on FY 2015 Operating Budget is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 5, 6 p.m.

The Board is expected to present their budget to the Board of County Commissioners in early March. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Superintendent Martirano kicks off the budget work session

Photo by Kay Poiro

St. Mary’s College of Maryland’s Boyden Gallery to Host “Time Zone” Film Screening St. Mary’s College of Maryland’s Boyden Gallery will host a film screening and discussion by photographers Gabriela Bulisova and Lashawna Etheridge-Bey as they present their collaborative multimedia project, “Time Zone.” The screening will take place on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m. in Cole Cinema, Campus Center. The discussion is free and open to the public.

“Time Zone” follows Lashawna Etheridge-Bey, a 39-year-old resident of Washington, DC who spent half of her life in prison for a double murder and was paroled

in December 2011. The project focuses on Lashawna's personal transformation while in prison, her difficult yet highly successful reentry into society, and the conflicts that remain within herself and with family members.

St. Mary's College of Maryland, designated the Maryland state honors college in 1992, is ranked one of the best public liberal arts schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. More than 2,000 students attend the college, nestled on the St. Mary's River in Southern Maryland.

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

The County Times

St. Mary’s County High School Education Graduation Rate Officially Tops 90%

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer Superintendent Michael J. Martirano officially announced this week that St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ four year high school graduation rate has reached 91.5 percent, topping the state average of 84.90 percent and far exceeding the national average of 78.20 percent.

According to Dr. Martirano, this is the highest graduation rate in the history of St. Mary’s County Public Schools.

The school with the highest increase in percentage of graduates was Great Mills High School, having increased their graduation rate by 13.72 percent. Great Mills High School’s current graduation rate is just over 89 percent.

Dr. Martirano spoke emotionally about what this means for Great Mills High School.

“People said things about this school that were unacceptable. The belief just wasn’t there in our children. But when you look at these numbers… it’s unbelievable.”

Great Mills High School Principal Jake Heibel praised his teachers. “We fight a lot of stereotypes, but our teachers are fantastic because they ‘get’ it. They get it because they get our kids.”

Chopticon High School’s graduation rate is 90.5 percent. Leonardtown High School’s graduation rate is 93.9 percent.

Principals from every elementary, middle and high school in the county were in attendance, as were select teachers, administrators and supervisors.

Superintendent Martirano also touched on the county’s relatively low dropout rate and steady attendance rates as well as the number of students receiving free and reduced meals. He stressed that these metrics were relevant indicators of the health of the community overall.

“So goes the school system, so goes the county,” says Martirano. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Photos by Kay Poiro Leonardtown High School Principal Maureen Montgomery addresses the Board with Principals Garth Bowling (Chopticon) and Jake Heibel (Great Mills)

St. Mary’s County State Board Adopts Science & Engineering New Student Fair To Be Held Discipline Regulations

Designed to Balance School Safety With Maintaining Student Progress to Graduation On Tuesday, the Maryland State Board of Education adopted new regulations guiding student discipline. The regulations are designed to keep students in school and maintain progress toward graduation, while strengthening school safety.

The regulations require local school systems to adopt policies that reduce long-term outof-school suspensions and expulsions, and use such actions only when a student poses an imminent threat of serious harm to other students or staff, or when a student is engaged in chronic or extreme disruptive behavior.

In addition, the regulations seek to expedite the student discipline appeal process by allowing local boards of education to hear and decide school discipline appeals with an opportunity to extend that time period in complex cases.

“Safe schools grow out of a positive school climate,” said State Board President Charlene M. Dukes. “Maryland is dedicated to maintaining safety while increasing student achievement. In order for students to achieve success, they must be in school.”

The regulations also seek to eliminate the

disproportionate impact of school discipline on students of color and students with disabilities.

MSDE will develop a method to analyze local school discipline data to measure the disproportionate impact on minority and special education students.

Local boards of education will be required to update their student discipline polices based on the new regulations by the beginning of the 2014-15 school year. The proposed regulations were published in the Maryland Register on Dec. 13.

Tuesday’s vote represents the culmination of more than four years of study by State Board members, a process that has included unprecedented collaboration with educators, local board members, and other stakeholders. The State Board invited dozens of educators and interested organizations to testify and provide input as part of that process. Board members have been concerned by the number and length of student suspensions, the impact that loss of class time has on academic success and the achievement gap, and the effect that suspensions have on certain student subgroups.

The 54th Annual St. Mary’s County Science & Engineering Fair will be held on Friday, Jan. 31 and Saturday, Feb. 1 in the cafeteria at Great Mills High School.

The fair will be open to the public on February 1st from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.. The awards ceremony, which is also open to the public, will begin at 3:30 p.m. in the school’s auditorium. The snow dates for this event are February 7th and 8th. Rules and entry forms are available to all students in St. Mary’s County at the Science & Engineering Fair Board’s website www.sm-sef.org or at http://www.smcps.org/tlpd/ tl/science/st-marys-science-a-engineering-fair.

Board of Education Seeks Input to Budget The Board of Education of St. Mary’s County seeks public input in preparation for the development of the 2014-2015 (Fiscal Year 2015) operating budget for St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS). SMCPS employees and community members are invited to participate in this Budget Forum on Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 6 p.m., in the Board of Education Meeting Room of the Central Administration Building, 23160 Moakley Street, Leonardtown, Maryland.

A sign-up sheet will be available at 5:30 p.m., with individual public comment limited to three minutes. Speakers are encouraged to provide comments in writing, even if presented at the forum, to allow the Board to give consideration to all input. For more information, please call (301) 475-5511, ext. 32177.

The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

18

Feature Story

Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa: Best Friend for Man’s Best Friend

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa is more than a “cage and feed” kennel. When owner/manager Susan Pearce Ditch opened over a decade ago, she set out to open not only a business, but a place that would be a positive part of a pet’s life.

Susan maintains a staff of five to fifteen, depending on the season. Susan supports and reinforces additional training like pet CPR and first aid. They are also educated on common issues like canine bloat and “kennel” cough.

That said, the staff at Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa rarely use the word “kennel.” Susan says what sets them apart from kennels or other providers of pet boarding is the variety and number of services they provide. In addition to boarding and doggie day care, Chesapeake Pet Resort also provides in-home pet sitting, pet taxi and grooming.

One of the main services Chesapeake Pet Resort and Spa offers is pet lodging.

“People board their pets for different reasons,” Susan says. “From a house remodel to military families in transit.”

Another service that has grown in popularity over the past few years is doggie day care. The facility also offers birthday parties and holiday celebrations.

“Holidays are big deals here,” she says.

Also a big deal for the resort and spa is its attention to detail. Susan says that she and her highly qualified staff do more than just “play with puppies all day.” The staff spends a large portion of the day caring for the pets, which ranges from maintaining pet records to administering medication on time to the animals.

“Our attention to detail and the amount of detail is what sets us apart,” Susan says.

“We try to be as accommodating as we can with our variety of pet services,” she says. That culture of accommodation extends to offering discounts to clients.

“In 2008, we noticed changes with the economy, so we modified our rate structure to accommodate the community.”

As a travel-based business and dependent on the families of the nearby naval base, they continue to watch the economy closely and have adjusted their rates a few times over the years accordingly, even as their own operating costs increase.

“We want to ensure that our clients can still count on us,” says Susan.

Photo Submitted by Susan Pearce Ditch

Kalnasy Photography

Clients of Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa can also count on Susan and her staff to go the extra mile for pets, as well as owners.

Susan, who spent 15 years in environmental management, says her operation’s high value placed on customer service is another reason it stands out.

“When I opened, I said I wanted to do this the right way, “ she explains. “That’s why we are sure to include those home-like amenities.”

Those home-like amenities range from doggy swim time in the summer to nature walks and even TV snuggle time.

Most of the clients are primarily in Southern Maryland, but it’s not unusual for a family from Annapolis to travel down to Solomons for a weekend and want to board their pet.

On occasion, Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa also sees pets from the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. area.

Susan says the best part of the business is getting to know the pets and their families.

“When a pet passes away at home, the families will call,” she says. “That in itself shows how much we mean to our clients. They count on us on levels we could never have

Photo Submitted by Susan Pearce Ditch

Photo Submitted by Susan Pearce Ditch

Photo Submitted by Susan Pearce Ditch

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

The County Times

Feature Story

supporting local pet rescue efforts. Pet business owners are welcome to join them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ pages/Chesapeake-Pet-Resort-Day-Spa. For more information about Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa, visit www.chessiepets.com or call 301-373-3400. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Photo Submitted by Susan Pearce Ditch Kalnasy Photography

imagined.”

The phrase “pet resort” leads some to believe that the Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa is a closed or exclusive club.

“We’ve had people say, ‘well, we’ll just call a regular kennel.’ But, we offer boarding, as well as all the extras,” says Susan.

Those extras are a part of the reason that Chesapeake Pets can fill up quickly. During their busiest season (summer months or holidays), slots for boarding can fill up months in advance.

Susan encourages potential clients to drop by for a tour

and an opportunity to meet one of their certified groomers on staff.

Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa is open seven days a week with 24 hour, around-the-clock supervision.

Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa is a climate-controlled facility with 30 indoor/outdoor runs and three deluxe cabins. The deluxe cabins are decorated with a nautical theme and have private, fenced yards. Dogs and cats are accepted and they also welcome other small pets by request.

Chesapeake Pet Resort and Day Spa are also members of Southern Maryland Pet Professionals, a local group of like-minded pet business owners focused on networking and

Photo Submitted by Susan Pearce Ditch

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The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

20

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The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Handcrafted Items & Gifts Produced by Local Fiber Farmers & Artisans

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Friday, Feb. 7th, 2014

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The Maryland Antique Center is in the Heart of Leonardtown, MD

We Have It All...Over 30 Dealers!

Gifts • Primitives Collectibles • Yard Art Vintage Painted Furniture Antique Furniture Lamps and Clocks!

(301) 690-2074

www.MarylandAntiqueCenter.com

Route 5 Leonardtown, MD

Cafe des Artistes Classic Country French Dining

301-997-0500

in a casual, relaxing atmosphere

41655 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown email: cafedesartistes@somd.us

www.cafedesartistes.ws Chef-owned and operated by Loic and Karleen Jaffres

“DOWNTOWN” Fenwick Street USed BookS and MUSic 41655A Fenwick Street Eddie Washington will be signing copies of his book Pegasus: The White Man. The Red Horse. The Black Boy from 5-7 PM FUzzy FarMerS Market 22696 Washington Street Our February theme is “Heartfelt” with our fiber artists celebrating all things Valentine’s and all types of felting. Come by on First Friday to learn about the different techniques for making felt.

Good earth natUral FoodS 41675 Park Ave It’s a fine time for organic wine with Jeff from The Country Vintner. Stop in and enjoy samples of Organic Wines and Organic Flavors. Learn how you can enhance your Valentine dinner experience this year.

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Monday 6 am – 6 pm • Tuesday - Thursday 6 am – 10 pm Friday 6 am – Midnight • Saturday 7 am - Midnight • Sunday 8 am – 2 pm

41658 Fenwick Street Leonardtown, MD

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kevin’S corner kaFe 41565 Park Avenue All you can eat crab legs/$34.99 per person; Steamed Combo (crab legs, shrimp, oysters, scallops, mussels and 2 sides) $19.99 per person; Brand New Salad Bar opal Fine art Gallery 41625 Park Avenue Let Cupid ignite your love for art during our First Friday reception and share our passion for the arts in Leonardtown. Refreshments served.

north end Gallery 41652 Fenwick Street First Friday reception and fabulous February Invitational Show featuring Historic St. Mary’s City -- “Picturing the Past”. More than 20 area professional artists join regular Member Artists in presenting this combined show. Meet and greet with the artists, light refreshments. Enjoy all the different interpretations of our very special Historic St. Mary’s City. walterS art Gallery 41630 Courthouse Drive Meet and Greet with emerging artist Michael Guy Tomasoni. “Chesapeake Bay Series” and “Whale Winds” are the focus of this show.

Register to win a large format notecard series.

Gallery Hours on First Friday are from Noon to 8PM. yellow door art StUdio 22795 Washington Street Jump across the street with us. Draw a line with us. Become Yellow!

Join the Yellow Party and tour the new and improved Yellow Door in their new home at 22795 Washington Street.

At the party, register early for Summer Camp and receive a $25 discount, or register for spring art classes and receive $10 off for a class.

Door prizes and free Yellow Art Projects!

David’ s Flowers STOp BY ON FIRST FRIDaY! New Space OpeN

SCULPTURE - OILS -WATERCOLORS - JEWELRY PHOTOGRAPHY AND MUCH MORE! WATCH ARTISTS CREATE - PURCHASE ART - TAKE A CLASS T 301 475 5775 22660 WASHINGTON ST. 2ND FLOOR. LEONARDTOWN, MD 20650

5PM to 8PM

Make Leonardtown “Your Place” Every First Friday!

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41656 Fenwick St. Leonardtown, MD 20650

If you love Leonardtown as much as our business owners love sharing their passion and offerings to you ... why not stop in on First Friday and share the love!

“UPTOWN” port oF leonardtown winery off Route 5 at 23190 Newtowne Neck Road The Winery is open from Noon to 9PM on First Fridays for wine tastings of award winning wines and for viewing local art. $5 tasting fee includes up to 6 wines and souvenir glass. Get cozy with your someone special in our tasting room with live music by Richard Wagner.

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Hours: Monday-Friday 3 -10pm

New LocatioN! 41665 Fenwick street unit 17 Leonardtown, MD 20650

bellamusicschool.com

Saturdays/ Sundays by Appointment

301-247-2602

To Place Your Ad On This Page, Contact Our Sales Department at 301-373-4125 or email sales@countytimes.net

First Friday is made possible by these additional LBA members: Bellarus Boutique • College of Southern Maryland • Community Bank • Crazy For Ewe • Friends of the Leonardtown Theatre • Olde Town Pub • Olde Towne Stitchery • Salsas Mexican Restaurant • S-Kape Salon St. Mary’s Macaroni Kid • BTB Coffee Bar • The Hair Company True Value Hardware • Yellow Door Art Studios

For First Friday Updates and Event Locations visit

www.leonardtownfirstfridays.com

Quality Yarns • Stylish Designs Lessons and Classes For All Levels 22715 Washington Street 301-475-2744 Leonardtown, MD 20650 www.crazyforewe.com

www.countytimes.net

Book Signing with Eddie asus: Washington- Peg The White Man. The Red Horse.

The Black Boy 5-7 PM, Feb. 7.

The County Times

Navy News Naval Air Station Launches Operation Homeport At some bases it’s known as the Host Family Initiative, and at others it’s Adopt a Sailor, but no matter what the program is called, the goal remains the same: Helping junior active-duty service members feel at home even when they’re not.

Currently in its infancy stages, Pax River’s Operation Homeport coordinators are seeking volunteer host families in the community to sponsor junior Sailors who are currently assigned to the naval air station. Host families do not have to have any military affiliation, but must live within 30 miles of the naval air station.

The sponsoring “family” can be a single individual, couples or a family with children, as long as the head of household is age 28 or older.

Operation Homeport is a way for Pax River’s Sailors who are away from home to create sustainable bonds with people who share similar interests and who genuinely care for their well-being.

To get involved, families will need to complete a Host Family Application location on the air station’s website, which includes a generalinterest questionnaire. The application allows program coordinators to match Sailors with a host family based on common interests. Additionally, families can request to host more than one Sailor or even a specific Sailor.

Active-duty service members interested in sponsoring a Sailor must be at least an E-7 or higher if enlisted, or O-3 or higher if commissioned.

For more information on how to participate in Operation Homeport, call the Patuxent River Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department at 301-342-0942, or visit the installation’s website at www.cnic.navy.mil/ Patuxent.

Tell the world how you feel.

Send a message in our Valentines section to someone special on February 13th.

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Ausley Earns Superior Security Rating Ausley is Placed in the Top 8% of Cleared Facilities

Ausley Associates, Inc. has been awarded a superior security rating—the highest possible rating— in an annual vulnerability assessment by the U.S. Defense Security Service (DSS).

“Our warfighters rely on us to safeguard our systems and data against threats and vulnerabilities,” said Ausley President Paul Ausley. "We have best practices in place to ensure we protect the information we are entrusted with, and our employees are committed to protecting our warfighters. This superior rating further validates that our security policies exceed the standard.”

DSS serves as an interface between the government and cleared industry— approximately 13,500 contractor facilities, of which only 8% receive a superior rating. The annual security assessment evaluates Ausley based on the standards set forth by the National Industrial Security Program, which ensures cleared facilities safeguard the classified information in their possession while performing work on contracts, programs, bids, or research and development efforts.

A superior rating is reserved for contractors that consistently and fully implement the requirements of the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual in an effective fashion, resulting in a superior security posture, compared with other contractors of similar size and complexity. The facility must have documented procedures that heighten the security awareness of employees and foster a spirit of cooperation within the security community.

About Ausley Since 1997 Ausley has provided unparalleled service and unequaled results to our partners in the federal marketplace. With core capabilities in both advanced programs development and unmanned aviation systems lifecycle and configuration management, Ausley is Maryland’s premier Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and fighter aircraft acquisition and engineering management small business. Ausley’s premier team of experts support the Department of Defense with a unique blend of warfighter experience, requirements generation, core program and acquisition management, systems engineering, logistics and operational expertise. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of our business philosophy

Simply fill out the form below and send payment by Feb. 5th. Questions?

Call 301-373-4125 or e-mail to sales@countytimes.net Mail this form to: SOMD Publishing, P.O. Box 250, Hollywood, MD 20636 OR email in this information to sales@countytimes.net Your Name:

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The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

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The County Times

Obituaries Edward Anthony Dean, 54 Edward Anthony Dean, 54, of Hollywood, Md., died Jan. 18, at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital.

Born Oct. 1, 1959, in Scotland, Md., he was the son of Catherine P. (Ridgell) Dean of Scotland, Md., and the late Nelson Edward Dean.

Edward was a graduate of Great Mills High School and received his associate’s degree in information technology from the College of Southern Maryland. He worked for Maryland Tobacco Growers for nine years, Southern States for seven years, and then the Maryland Department of Agriculture for 19 years.

He enjoyed fishing and motorcycle riding, but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family.

Edward is survived by his wife, Alice R. “Mona” (Wathen) Dean; his children, Michael E. Dean, Christopher J. Dean (Ebick Pizzadili) and Andrew N. Dean (Jessie Hill), all of Hollywood, Md.; his grandson, Max Dean; and his siblings, Brenda Justice (Everett) of Hudson, N.C., Mary Lou Simpkins (James) of Ridge, Md., Shirley Epperson of Tampa, Fla., Hazel Neil (Larry) of Chiefland, Fla., Winnie Beerman of Hollywood, Md., Crystal Cabellon (Alberto) of Seattle, Wash., Carol Kel-

Thursday, January 30, 2014

The County Times runs complimentary obituaries as submitted by funeral homes and readers.

We run them in the order we receive them. Any submissions that come to news@countytimes.net after noon on Tuesdays may run in the following week’s edition.

ley (Craig) of Ridge, Md., Sonny Dean (Gail) of Scotland, Md., Leonard Dean (Linda) of Scotland, Md., Arthur Dean (Cyndi) of Murfeesboro, Tenn., George Dean (Steve Sherry) of Harpers Ferry, W.V., and Glenn A. Norris of Hollywood, Md.. In addition to his father, Edward was preceded in death by his sister, Patsy Nickless.

The family received friends for Edward’s Life Celebration on Saturday, Jan. 25, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. A remembrance service was held at 3 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral. com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.

John Bernard Edgston, 76 John Bernard Edgston, 76 of Hollywood, Md., “Coin,” as he was affectionately called, passed away on Jan. 23.

John was born to the late Irvin Chase and Mary Frances Morgan on July 18, 1937. He received his education at St. Peter Claver School, St. Inigoes, Md. On

Caring for the Past Planning for the Future Traditional Funerals, Cremation Services, Memorial Church Services, Direct Burials, Monuments, Unlimited with Commitment Through After Care.

Oct. 21, 1999, John married his longtime friend, Jeannette Gordon. He was an active member of St. Matthews Free Gospel Church.

John always had good work ethics and was a hard worker. He worked various jobs to include grounds keeper at Father Andrew White School, St. Aloysius Catholic Church and St. Mary’s Hospital. John was last employed with the St. Mary’s County Public Schools where he worked for 21 years; retiring in 1994.

John was well known for his smile, kind heart, joyous personality and cheerful spirit. Some of John’s favorite past time included attending baseball games, cutting grass and detailing cars.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin Chase and Mary Morgan; daughter, Coretta Edgston; brothers, Joseph and Calvin Morgan and Jimmy Chase and sister, Delores Morgan.

John leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife, Jeannette; son, John (Marie) Butler; daughter, Javara (Lewis) Berry; 11 step-children, Joseph (Luann) Gordon, Carl (Val) Gordon, Ronnie (Missy) Gordon, Monica Gordon, Mary Campbell, Fitzgerald (Tammi) Gordon, Cornelius Gordon, Michael (Jane) Hebb, John Q (Annette) Hebb, Rose Hebb and Monica Hebb; brothers, Clarence, Alvin and John A. Morgan and Bernard and Joseph (Lorraine) Chase; sisters, Ellen (Joe) Jordan, Vera and Teresa Chase, Brenda Bryant and Debra Hymes; halfsisters, Viola Thompson and Agnes Harrison and a host of grand children, greatgrandchildren and great-great grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, friends and one Godchild.

Family and friends will unite on Saturday, Feb. 1, for visitation at 10 a.m. until time of Service at 11 a.m. at St. Matthews Free Gospel Church, 23755 Hollywood Road, Hollywood, MD. Interment to follow at Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, MD. Arrangements by Briscoe-Tonic Funeral Home, Mechanicsville, Md.

Harrell Thomas Morgan, 37

www.brinsfieldfuneral.com FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED FOR FIVE GENERATIONS Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A. 22955 Hollywood Road Leonardtown, Maryland 20650

(301) 475-5588

24

Brinsfield-Echols Funeral Home, P.A. 30195 Three Notch Road Charlotte Hall, Maryland 20650

(301) 472-4400

Harrell Thomas Morgan, 37 of Loveville, Md. passed away Jan. 23.

Born March 16, 1976 in Leonardtown, Md., he was the son of Carroll “Pop” Morgan and Dorothy Miller.

Harrell loved the outdoors, the Redskins and most of all he loved his children. He graduated from Leonardtown High School and enlisted in the Army.

When he returned home from the Army he began working with his father as a mason.

Harrell is survived by his father, Pop Morgan; his mother, Dorothy Miller; his fiancé, Amy Ward; children, Makayla and Michael T.; brothers, Brian Morgan (Shannon), Donnie Miller Jr. and Justin L. Miller (Jennifer); his sister, Crystal Faulstich; four nieces; three nephews and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is also survived by his step-father, Donnie J. Miller Sr. and step-mother, Debbie Morgan. Harrell was preceded

in death by his grandparents, Albert and Alice Tippett and Carroll Morgan and his brother-in-law, Raymond J. Faulstich.

Family will receive friends for Harrell’s Life Celebration on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Prayers will be recited at 7 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, Jan. 31 at the Encounter Christian Center, Charlotte Hall, MD at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Morganza, Md. Serving as pallbearers will be Brian C. Morgan, Donnie J. Miller, Justin L. Miller, Chad A. Richards, Kevin S. Miller and James W. Umber. Condolences to the family may be made at www. brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md..

William Thomas Dotson, 90 William Thomas Dotson, 90, of Mechanicsville, Md., passed away on Jan. 24 in Hollywood, Md. Born on July 19, 1923 in Mechanicsville, Md., he was the son of the late Ernest Joseph Dodson Sr. and Mary Eleanor Dodson. William was the loving husband of Sarah Inez Dotson, whom he married in 1947, and was married to for 60 years; she preceded him in death in 2007. William is survived by his children, Thomas Dotson (Dottie) of Leonardtown, Md., Nettie Neale of Waldorf, Md., Kenny Dotson of San Jose, Calif., Joan Dotson (Sherman) of Mesquite, Texas, Timothy Dotson (Barbara) of Lexington Park, Md., Mark Dotson (Mary) of Hollywood, Md., and Cathy Siemonb (Emmanuel) of Brandywine, Md.; 17 grandchildren; 31 greatgrandchildren and his siblings, Regina Veronica Price of Washington D.C., Mary Magdalene Johnson of Mechanicsville, Md., Mary Artina Miles of Mechanicsville, Md., Jane Idola Dotson of Mechanicsville, Md., Michael Garfield Dotson of Waldorf, Md., and Anthony Garnell Dotson of Waldorf, Md. He was preceded in death by his siblings ,Carolyn Cecilia Pettis, Ernest Joseph Dodson Jr., Herbert Jerome Dodson, Jeanette Theresa Drake and Eleanor Dodson.

William graduated from St. Mary’s County Public Schools and was a lifelong resident of St. Mary’s County. He severed in the United States Army, serving in World War II, until December 1945. He also worked as a Pneumatic Tool Operator for the Federal Government retiring in 1975. William loved to work on cars, hunt, play cards with family and friends, was an avid gardener, loved maintaining his yard and was a member of the Knights of St. John.

William is survived by a host of nephews, nieces, other family members, and friends.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, Feb. 1 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Mechanicsville, Md. A Mass

25

Thursday, January 30, 2014

The County Times

The County Times runs complimentary obituaries as submitted by funeral homes and readers.

We run them in the order we receive them. Any submissions that come to news@countytimes.net after noon on Tuesdays may run in the following week’s edition. of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 11 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Mechanicsville, Md., with Father Keith Woods officiating. Interment will follow in Charles Memorial Gardens Leonardtown, Md.

Joseph “Junior” Johnson Payne Jr., 86 Joseph “Junior” Johnson Payne Jr., 86 of Leonardtown, Md., passed away on Jan. 23, at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonardtown, Md. Born Jan. 18, 1928, in Leonardtown, Md., he was the son of the late Estelle C.V. Guy Payne and Joseph Johnson Payne Sr. Junior is survived by his wife, Louise Edith Farrell Payne, whom he married on May 2, 1948 in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Compton, Md., and siblings Mary Rose Payne Burch (Norman) of Mechanicsville, Md., George “Buster” Payne of Mathias, W.Va., Estelle Payne Morgan of Mechanicsville, Md., Elizabeth J. Payne Lacey of Hollywood, Md., and J. Leroy Payne of Mechanicsville, Md. In addition to his parents, Junior was preceded in death by his step-mother, Genevieve B. Raley Payne, and a brother, D. Alan Payne.

Junior attended Margaret Brent High school, served in the U.S. Army form March 27, 1946 to April 4, 1947 and he was co-owner of J.J. Payne & Son Well Drilling. He enjoyed chocolate candy, ice cream, reading and playing cards.

The family received friends on Tuesday, Jan. 28 from 5 to 8 p.m., with prayers recited at 7 p.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, Md. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 10 a.m.in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, with Father Tom Crowley officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Ronald Farrell, Gary Farrell, Dale Farrell, Steve Raley, David Farrell and George Payne Jr. Honorary pallbearers will be Jim Gibson, Wade Mattingly, Jimmy Ryan, Francis Tippett, Norman Wathen, Arthur Farrell, John Henry Bond and Robert Burch.

Contributions may be made to St. Francis Xavier Manor House Fund, 21370 Newtowne Neck Rd., Compton, MD, 20627

James L. Mason Sr., 82 James L. Mason Sr., 82 of Valley Lee, Md. died on Jan. 22, at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital. He was born June 20, 1931 in Leonardtown, Md., to the late Robert and Amanda Mason.

James was preceded in death by his loving wife, Betty Elizabeth Mason; his children, James Louis Mason Jr. (Junie), Joseph Mason, Charlotte and Charlene

Mason; sister, Cecilia Brown, and brother, Bernard Mason. James is survived by his children, Patricia Green (Joe) of Clements, Md., Doris Mason and Darnell Mason (Lou) of Lexington Park, Md., Robert Mason of Valley Lee, Md., John Mason of Lexington Park, Md., Calvin Mason of Lexington Park, Md., Mary Medley (Robert Sr., deceased) of Lexington Park, Md., Linda Mason of Valley Lee, Md., Daryl Mason (Tosha) of Great Mills, Md., Brian Mason (Tracy) of Indian Head, Md., Ray Mason, and Steve Mason (Ann) of Lexington Park, Md., and Tyrone Mason (Tess) of Lexington Park, Md. James was a role model for his 45 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. James Louis was a devoted father and farmer, working on Mulberry Fields for 22 years, and retired in 1999. James was an active parishioner at St. Georges Catholic Church until he could no longer perform as an usher due to his illness, but still continued to attend services.

James’ home was the spot for Sunday dinners, weekend gatherings, birthday parties and anything you can think of where he enjoyed just sitting back looking at the crowd, until they played his song, “Anybody Wanna Dance With Me,” and then he would two-step with anybody. James enjoyed being a father figure to not only his children but to his grandchildren. James Louis enjoyed giving his grandchildren words of advice and encouragement like ”don’t take no wooden nickels.” Never saying goodbye, he would always say “toot-a-loo, you take care now.” You could always find him in his little room, heat on blast, just staring out the window and looking up the road. Everyone knows how much he missed his wife. We know you are at peace now; fly high in the sky with your best friend.

The family received friends on Tuesday, Jan, 28 from 10 to 11:00 a.m. in St. George Catholic Church, Valley Lee, Md. with a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m., with Monsignor Karl Chimiak officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be; Darnell Mason, Stevie Mason, Daryl Mason, Robert Medley, Jr., Tyrone Mason, and Brian Mason. Honorary pallbearers will be Monica Woodard, LaQuisha Harris, John Mason, Calvin Mason, Robert mason, Ray Mason, and Stevin Mason. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley- Gardiner funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.

Francis Benedict “Frankie” Guy, 78 Francis Benedict “Frankie” Guy, 78, of Clements, Md., passed away on Jan. 25, peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Oct. 7, 1935, in Loveville, Md., he was the son of the late James Warren Guy and Rosalie Greenwell Guy Clarke. He was the loving husband of Sara Jane

Obituaries

“Sally” Alvey Guy, whom he married on Dec. 31, 1960 at St. Joseph’s Church in Morganza, Md. They celebrated 53 wonderful years together.

He is survived by his wife; daughters, Angel Quade (Ray) and Crystal Hayden (George) of Clements and Dana Jameson (Donnie) of Charlotte Hall; grandchildren, George Hayden IV (Christine), Amanda Guy (Charlie), Rachel Clem (Jimmy), Michael Hayden (Colleen Lilly), Gary Hill, Shannon Hill, Riley Love, Brody and Kinley Jameson; step-grandchildren, Ray Quade Jr. and Amber Quade Spiegel; great-grandchildren, Lindsey, Kelsey and Charlie Jr. Guy, Raelee Clem and Maggie Hayden; siblings, Rosemary Keener, Patricia “Patsy” Downs and Margaret “Peggy” Goddard.

He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Angel Ann Guy, and siblings, Emanuel “Sugar” Guy, Charles “Tippie” Guy, Phyllis Smith, William “Bucky” Clarke, Jacqueline “Jackie” MaGill, James “Neary” Guy, John “Cakum” Guy, Warren “Shine” Guy, Robert “Buck” Guy, Catherine “Jeanie” Guy and Mary “Doll” Guy. Frankie attended Great Mills High School. He lived in St. Mary’s County his entire life and made his family home in the 7th District.

He was employed with the State of Maryland, Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge, Toll Facilities in Newburg, Md. He retired in 1997, after 32 years of dedicated service. He played baseball as a young man and switched to softball when he started coaching his daughters and grandchildren in youth baseball and softball. He coached women’s and men’s softball teams. He played softball in the St. Mary’s County Men’s Softball League and belonged to the St. Mary’s County Softball Hall of Fame. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Frankie and Sally loved to travel with family and friends. They took many camping trips to Virginia, Tennessee and the Carolinas. They visited Hawaii, Las Vegas and California, and this allowed them to experience there first plane ride. They loved cruises and bus trips south along the east coast and the Caribbean, creating many wonderful memories and stories he liked to tell.

He loved the Washington Redskins and Baltimore Orioles.

The family received friends on Wednesday, Jan. 29 from 5 to 8 p.m. with prayers recited at 7 p.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, Md..

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 10 a.m. in Holy Angels Catholic Church, Md. with Father Charles Cortinovis officiating. Interment will follow in Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, Md. Pallbeares are George Hayden IV, Michael Hayden, Gary Hill, Ray Quade Jr., Jay

Clarke and Ted Downs. Honorary Pallbearers are Amanda Guy, Rachel Clem, Shannon Hill, Riley Love, Brody Jameson, Kinley Jameson, Donnie Jameson, George Hayden III, Ray Quade and Glenn Cullins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s PO Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650; the 7th District Volunteer Rescue Squad, PO Box 7, Avenue, MD 20609 or the 7th District Volunteer Fire Dept. PO Box 206, Avenue, MD 20609.

Edwin James Ferraer, 59 Edwin James Ferraer, 59 of California, Md. died Jan. 19, at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, Clinton, Md. Born June 11, 1954 in Bloomfield, N.J., he was the son of the late Edwin Ferraer and Carol (McDonnell) Ferraer.

Ed was employed as a carpenter since the age of 14, and his family called him “Mr. Fix It.” He loved his music, especially from the “hippie” era of the 60s and 70s. Ed was an accomplished cook who would make gourmet feasts for the family.

Ed is survived by his wife, Patti Jean (Landolt) Ferraer, whom he married on Feb. 21, 1992; children, Angela Kristen Wallace (Aubrey) of Hagerstown, Md., and David Alan Shaffier (Jeana) of Chesapeake Beach, Md.; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild and sisters, Carol Moran of Forked River, N.J. and Mary Tulley of Whiting, N.J..

In addition to his parents, Edwin was preceded in death by his son, Brian Michael Shaffier.

Services will be private.

Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.

To Place A Memorial, Please Call 301-373-4125 or send an email to info@somdpublishing.net

The County Times

26

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Newsmakers

Men of Honor Mentoring at Great Mills High School

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer The Men of Honor at Great Mills High School is a grassroots mentoring program aimed at teaching high school aged male students valuable life skills. Men of Honor is run by TJ Hudson, a retired Navy sailor and father of four. Hudson, who has been with the program since 2009, has seen it grow exponentially.

“The first year, we had six kids,” Hudson says. “Now, we can have anywhere from 12 to 40.” Usually, meetings consist of 12 to 15 students, depending on the extracurricular schedules of the kids. Members range from freshman to senior.

Potential participants are often referred by teachers or peers; however, many volunteer. From the beginning, Men of Honor was designed so that all male students could benefit.

“We aren’t for those kids you’d call ‘troubled’ or who aren’t doing so well in school,” explains Hudson. “Just be-

cause a child is doing well in school doesn’t mean he can’t benefit from mentorship.”

Hudson says school media clerk Tina Dial and school security assistant Melvin Cheshire help identify students who may be interested in the Men of Honor program.

“Ms. Dial and Mr. Cheshire are instrumental in supporting the program. They really drive enrollment,” he says, adding that this school year has brought many returnees to the program.

The program meets for one hour after school on Thursdays with Mr. Hudson. Guest speakers from the community are often invited.

TJ Hudson says one of his favorite quotes is “Success happens when preparation meets opportunity.” To prepare the students for a life outside of high school, Men of Honor focuses not on just helping with homework, but learning valuable, practical skills from money management to interview techniques to social media responsibility and the preparation of scholarship applications.

“There’s a need for strong male role models,” says

Hudson. “So, we delve deeper than just assisting with homework or being an afterschool ‘club’.”

Men of Honor are also active in their community. In addition to taking field trips with their school’s sister mentoring program, Sisters in Success, they also hold coat drives and collect donations for holiday baskets to distribute to local needy families.

“We want to get them in the spirit of giving without the expectation of reward,” Hudson explains.

This year, Men of Honor has approximately 15 members, many of them returning from last year. Early in the school year, Hudson asked one of the mentees why he chose to return to the program this year.

His answer was, “Because you’re teaching me to be a man.”

For more information about the Men of Honor mentoring program at Great Mills High School, contact TJ Hudson at tjhudson_46@yahoo.com. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

From my Backyard to our Bay A St. Mary’s County Resident’s Guide to Improving Our Environment and Drinking Water

From My Backyard to Our Bay was first developed by the Baltimore County Soil Conservation District. From there, the booklet was given to each of the Soil Conservation Districts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed area for customization. If the 17.5 million residents who live in the watershed area of the Chesapeake Bay read this booklet, and took to heart its suggestions and best practices, the Chesapeake Bay would see a dramatic increase in health. Obtain a FREE copy of the booklet by going to the St. Mary’s River Watershed Association, smrwa.org and downloading it. The booklet is available at Wentworth Nursery in Charlotte Hall; Chicken Scratch in Park Hall; The Greenery in Hollywood; Good Earth Natural Food; and the St. Mary’s Soil Conservation District in Leonardtown.

Join your local watershed association and make a difference for Our Bay!

smrwa.org

Permeable Pavers: Reducing Our Footprint Water Fact: Did You Know?

Watershed health begins to decline with 10% impervious surface. 30% impervious cover shows severe impairment.

Can you imagine what would happen if you could wave a magic wand and all the driveways and parking lots in Maryland suddenly become permeable?

That would greatly reduce the amount of stormwater runoff headed for the Bay and help replenish the ground water and aquifer that feeds our wells.

And while that’s not going to happen all at once, it is happening throughout Southern Maryland, one parking lot and one driveway at a time.

From: http://www.stixnstones.com/benefitsof-permeable-green-enviornmental-pavers/

Traditional Pavers

Permeable Pavers

There have been great strides in the development of permeable asphalt, concrete, and pavers. Permeable hard surfaces are more expensive than their regular counterparts, but in a large commercial parking area, money can be saved by not having to install extensive stormwater management infrastructure.

In order to get the best performance and drainage capacity from your pavers, it is necessary to maintain them properly. The general requirements are

that they are swept on a regular basis, and vacuumed about four times a year.

Permeable pavers will not hold up under heavy truck traffic.

From

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A Impro St. Ma ving ry’s Co Our un Enviro ty Re nmen sident’s t an d Dri Guide to nking Water

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ay

are you Bay-Wise?

Bay-Wise landscapes minimize negative impacts on our waterways by using smarter lawn management If your driveway is in need of repair, or if techniques and gardening you would like to install a patio, please practices. The University take the time to consider what a benefit of Maryland Extension permeable pavers would make for our Master Gardener Bay-Wise program in St. Mary’s environment.

County offers hands-on For more information, check out http:// help with managing your publicutilities.columbus.gov/content. landscape by providing information, a site visit, and aspx?id=54218 landscape certifications.

Where to get help with...

Our yardstick checklist is PERMEABLE PAvERS easy to understand and • Wentworth Nursery, Inc. 301-373-9245 follow, and our team of trained Master Gardeners or wentworthnursery.com can help guide you • Nicolock Paving Stones and Retaining through it while offering Walls, nicolock.com suggestions to improve both the appearance • University of Maryland Extension and sustainability of your Service, Permeable Pavement Fact landscape.

Sheet, extension.umd.edu/sites/

default/files/_docs/programs/mastergardeners/Howardcounty/Baywise/ PermeablePavingHowardCountyMasterGardeners10_5_11%20Final.pdf

This is the thirty-third in a series of articles that Mary Ann Scott (scottmaryann9@gmail.com) has adapted from From My Backyard to Our Bay in the hopes of increasing awareness of the powerful booklet that could do so much to help the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Look for the next article in next week’s County Times!

Call Now & Schedule a Visit!

301-475-4120 extension.umd.edu/baywise

Start a Movement in Your Neighborhood…Be the First to be Certified Bay-Wise!

27

Thursday, January 30, 2014

The County Times

In Our Community

LIBRARY ITEMS Youth can learn to control a robot

Youth ages 9-13 will have fun learning to control the Finch robot using SNAP! programming language at the following programs presented by Great Mills High School and AP Computer Science students: Feb. 6 at 6 p.m. at the Leonardtown branch, Feb. 13 at 6 p.m. at the Charlotte Hall branch and Feb. 20 at 6 p.m. at the Lexington Park branch. Registration is required.

Hands-on activities encourage fun with books

Leonardtown library is offering a program for parents and caregivers to enjoy hands-on activities with their children. The activities are designed to encourage fun with books. The program will be held on Feb. 8 at 10 a.m.

Help for job seekers

A resume basics class is being offered at Lexington Park branch on Feb. 12 at 10 a.m. for adults. The class will cover writing a resume, the different types of resumes, and using Word 2010 to prepare a resume. Registration is required.

The Southern Maryland JobSource Mobile Career Center will be at Charlotte Hall branch on Feb. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and at Leonardtown branch on Feb. 11 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to offer assistance to job seekers.

Class to cover genealogy basics

Adults will learn how to do searches, fill out charts, organize information, use the library online resources, and explore various websites at a free class offered at Charlotte Hall branch on Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. Registration is required.

Free workshop offered for grant seekers

Staff from the College of Southern Maryland Nonprofit Institute and the library will present an overview on researching grant opportunities and the grant writing process at a workshop at Lexington Park branch on Feb. 13 at 5 p.m. The workshop will include a hands-on demonstration of the Foundation Center’s databases which can be used to find grant sources and are available at the library. Registration is required.

Dr. Martin Luther King to be portrayed

Actor and motivational speaker Gregg Riley will portray Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the library’s Black History Month program on Feb. 22 at Lexington Park branch. Riley will also discuss King’s most heralded speeches and how they relate today. The free program starts at 1 p.m. and is being co-sponsored by Unified Committee for Afro-American Contributions, NAACP of St. Mary’s County and the Minority Outreach Coalition.

Registration Now Open for Spring High School Sailing We Sail for Fun, We Sail to Learn, We Sail to Compete!

Sailing Center Chesapeake, located at Tall Timbers Marina in St. Mary’s County, is now accepting registrations for this season’s high school sailing program.

The program is open to all high school age students in the county with or without sailing knowledge, and to junior high school students with some level of sailing experience.

This spring’s season begins on Saturday, March 8 and opens with a full day of boat preparation and instruction.

Practices are held Wednesday – Friday beginning at 3pm, with several interscholastic racing opportunities on the weekends.

Although the high school season officially ends during the month of May, activities and opportunities for racing and water fun continue throughout the summer.

Sailing Center Chesapeake, a grassroots community resource, provides affordable access to the region’s abundant natural resources.

Our fee structure is very affordable and some scholarship funding is available for families in need.

Simply put, we remove as many barriers as possible allowing any student who is truly interested in sailing, the ability to learn how to sail in a competitive environment.

For more information, or to register and sign up online please visit www.sailingcenterchesapeake.org or call 301-247-0905.

Cat of the Week Catcher is a beautiful white and gray young cat with beautiful and unusual markings. He is very sweet and gets along well with the other cats at CAWL He has a great personality and would love for you to come in and meet him. His DOB is March 1, 2013.

You can meet Catcher at the Calvert Animal Welfare League Prince Frederick Md. Friday – Sunday 11a.m. to 3p.m. or call 410-535-9300 for details.

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301-373-2955 • 23971 Mervell Dean Rd • Hollywood, MD 20636 Ms. Bertie Amoss of Sykesville, MD, announces the engagement of her daughter, Melanie Carol Amoss, to Eugene Nelson St. Clair, II, son of Jacqueline and Eugene St. Clair of Compton, MD. The future bride, also the daughter of the late Michael Amoss Sr., graduated from Marymount University with a bachelor of arts degree in Fashion Merchandising.

She is co-owner of Smitten Botique Salon in Arlington, VA. The future groom received a bachelor of science degree in Human Factors Psychology from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He is the Chief Executive Officer and owner of Intuitive Design Solutions, LLC. A February 2014 wedding is planned and the couple will live in Arlington, VA.

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The County Times

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

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The County Times

New Asthma Control Program For St. Mary’s County Children The St. Mary’s County Health Department officially launches a new Asthma Control Program intended to help children improve their asthma and decrease health care costs associated with uncontrolled asthma. The program will focus on children and adolescents 2 to 18 years old with uncontrolled asthma. Similar programs across the country have proven to be effective at improving health outcomes and quality of life.

“This is an important program not only for those children affected by this serious condition, but also for their families. We will be able to assess the home environment for potential asthma triggers and provide education to the families on coping with asthma in their home,” said the health department’s Asthma Control Program Director, Sandy Aubert, RN, MPH. The Asthma Control Program will help: • Identify and reduce home exposure to environmental triggers of asthma • Provide asthma education and resources for families with children who are affected • Decrease asthma-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and unplanned visits to primary care offices • Decrease number of days children with asthma miss school • Decrease the number of days parents miss work because of their child’s asthma • A major component of the Health Department’s Asthma Control Program will be to conduct a home visit for families and provide suggestions on how asthma triggers can be easily reduced in the home setting.

Asthma is a chronic disorder of the airways characterized by wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. Asthma symptoms can be triggered by various allergens and irritants, respiratory infections, secondhand smoke, and household triggers.

Children can be referred into the program by their health care provider, school nurse, hospital, or family. For those who qualify for a home visit, a summary report will be provided to the parents, primary healthcare provider for the child, and school nurse.

For more information about the Asthma Control Program and other resources to help with asthma control, visit www.smchd.org/asthma

Vital Community Connectors To Host Community Forum on the Relationship of the Non-Profit Sector to Government

The Vital Community Connectors (VCC) represents an informal coalition of over 20 non-profit com¬munity organizations in St. Mary’s County, and was formed in 2012 to raise awareness about the value that non-profit agencies and organizations provide to our community and its citizens. These organizations bolster many aspects of what makes St. Mary’s County special, and together they contribute to our excellent quality of life: education, the arts, heritage preservation, recreation, health and safety, wellness, economic development, assistance for our vulnerable citizens, and help for our neighbors when they most need it. Public support of these organizations provides a highly-leveraged and effective outsource of programs and services that contribute directly and effectively to the health, cultural, educational and recreational well-being of our County and the well-rounded community it represents.

The VCC will host a public forum on Feb. 20 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center, Building 2. The forum will focus not only on the critical roles non-profits play in our community, but in particular will focus on the important relationship that the non-profit sector has to government. Government has an obligation to take care of its citizens, boost local economic diversity, advance education, and ensure a high quality and standard of life. Part of the forum discussion will be about how non-profits assist in these roles while allowing government to remain responsive to ever-changing needs and avoid unnecessary overhead.

The community is invited to attend the forum to learn more and be a part of the discussion. Non-profits are also encouraged to attend and set up a table to share what their non-profit does for our community, but all are asked to RSVP so that space considerations may be addressed. For more information please call Joe Anderson at 301-481-6350 or e-mail at joea3652@gmail.com.

In Our Community Valentines Dine at The Inn Treat your sweetheart to a romantic and delicious Valentine’s Day dinner at The Inn at Brome Howard. On Feb. 14 and 15, Expressions of St. Mary’s will offer a special prix fixe dinner menu. Enjoy a complete four-course meal in the casual elegance of the 19th-century restored plantation house for $45, plus tax and gratuity.

Diners will choose an appetizer, entrée, and dessert from a selection of delectable offerings. Chef’s specialty entrees include beef tenderloin; Cornish game hen; chicken Chesapeake, seasoned chicken breast topped with crab imperial; and cioppino, the classic Italian seafood stew. Each selection comes with salad, rolls, a fresh vegetable, coffee, and tea. A cash bar will feature specialty martinis, wines, and champagne by the bottle.

Dinner will be served from 5 to 8 p.m. each day. Reservations are required; call 240-237-8319 to insure your table. Fall in love again over heart-warming creations at The Inn at Brome Howard.

Make the romance last - The Inn will be offering special lodging rates both nights. Contact innkeeper Tara Jensen at 240-434-3209 to reserve your room.

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The County Times

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The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

St. Mary’s Department of Aging Programs and Activities Learning is ForEver (LIFE)

Get ready, get set, GO…to your local senior activity center after Feb. 3 to pick up the Spring 2014 LIFE booklet of classes. Registration opens on Tuesday, February 18, and is taken on a first-come, first-served basis either through the mail or walk-in at the senior activity centers. Classes fill quickly, so don’t delay. Many exciting, interesting, educational events are planned such as a tour of the Naval Academy, Fort McHenry, U.S. Botanical Garden, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum in Baltimore and Orioles Park at Camden Yard, plus educational tours in the tri-county area. Be sure to pick up your booklet, as booklets are no longer mailed. Booklets are also available on-line at www. stmarysmd.com/aging. Call 301-475-4200, ext. 1063 with questions. And remember, learning is forever!

‘Barnyard Animals’ Sketching Classes

On Mondays, Feb. 3 and 10, starting at 9 a.m., learn how to do ‘Quick Draw’ pencil sketching techniques of barnyard animals at the Northern Senior Activity Center.

Deadline to sign up is today by calling 301-475-4002, ext.

1001. If you like chickens, pigs and bunny rabbits (to name a few), this is the class to take. If you think you can’t draw, surprise yourself! Learn how to transform a sketch into a three-dimensional drawing by adding shading and finer details. Resident artist and instructor, Wrenn Williams will teach the class and give personal assistance as needed.

“What’s on Your Mind?”

On Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 10:45 a.m., come share what’s on your mind at the Northern Senior Activity Center. This

SENIOR LIVING casual and informal gathering will take the place of ‘Senior Matters’ discussion group and meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Topics are open from anything that interests you like current events or something in the community that affects you personally. Feel free to bring topics to the group or come to talk things through and find a listening ear. Walk-ins are welcome.

February Comfort Food & Jazz Piano

The Garvey Senior Activity Center will host a luncheon on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at noon. The menu will feature fried chicken, creamy macaroni and cheese, kick’n collard greens, okra and tomatoes, cornbread, black eye peas and sweet potato pie. Following the meal, enjoy jazz music by solo pianist, Meleah Backhaus. Ms. Backhaus is a classically trained pianist and composer and performs regularly.

To sign-up for this event, call 301-475-4200, Ext. 1050.

Afternoon Pinochle to begin in February

Beginning Feb. 12, pinochle players can enjoy their favorite card game at the Loffler Senior Activity Center on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday afternoons of each month from 1-4 p.m. This will be in addition to the ongoing morning sessions that have been taking place every Mon, Wed and Fri mornings from 8-11:30 a.m. For more information call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658.

Massage and Reflexology Therapy Available at Loffler

The Loffler Senior Activity Center has an experienced

massage and reflexology therapist available three days a week. Would you like to schedule an appointment? Call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658 for more information.

Living Well with Chronic Disease

Give yourself something priceless--improved wellbeing. The Loffler Senior Activity Center will be conducting a six week workshop on how to manage your chronic condition. The class will meet at the center on Thursdays, Mar. 6-Apr. 10. This is an evidence-based program that was developed by Stanford University to help people with chronic conditions take charge of their life by developing self-management skills, including dealing with depression and fatigue, pain management, working with health care providers and more. If you have a chronic condition and are serious about improving the way you feel, this is the workshop for you. There is no charge for taking this class; however, a commitment to regular attendance is needed for good results. For more information or to sign up call 301737-5670, ext. 1658.

Core and Abs Class on Wednesdays

Do you want to strengthen your core muscles which may help with lower back pain and maintain posture and balance? Dave Scheible teaches this class on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. at the Loffler Senior Activity Center. You can try it out for free and if you like it you can continue coming using a fitness card. Fitness cards are $30 and are good for 10 fitness classes of any type at any of the St. Mary’s County Senior Activity Centers. For more information call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658.

Loffler Senior Activity Center 301-737-5670, ext. 1652; Garvey Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4200, ext. 1050 Northern Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4002, ext. 1001 Visit the Department of Aging’s website at www.stmarysmd.com/aging for the most up-to date information.

Murder of James Scofield, Pt. 1

By Linda Reno Contributing Writer James Scofield, son of Squires Scofield and Maria Weed, was born about 1826 in Darien, Connecticut. He moved to Virginia where he married, prior to 1852, Catherine Chapman of Richmond and they had two children. Catherine was deceased by 1860 and James was living in Elizabeth City County, Virginia while his sons Eugene and James were living in Darien, Connecticut with his mother.

On April 10, 1864, Scofield married Sarah A. “Sally” Pembroke, daughter of George Washington Pembroke and Ann Rosella Bean. They made their home here in the First District where James opened a grocery store and was shortly thereafter named as postmaster of Fairfield. In 1865 their only child, Ann M. Scofield was born and unfortunately Sarah died shortly thereafter.

By 1870 James had brought his sons to live with

A Journey Through Time The

him along with his little girl. They lived quietly until 1873 when James was murdered.

“A crime, the like of which has never before occurred in our community, was perpetrated at Fairfield, in the lower section of our country, on Thursday night last, the 3rd instant. James Scofield, a merchant and the Postmaster at Fairfield, being the victim, his store robbed and burned to the ground.

He was seen well and in fine spirits about 9 o’clock on the night in question, and in three hours afterwards there was nothing remaining of him but his blackened and charred bones, entirely unrecognizable. It is thought he was attracted by knocks at his store door during this interval, and opened the door to the parties seeking entrance, when he was immediately assailed and murdered, the store robbed and the house fired. A reward of $500 has been offered by our county authorities for the apprehension of the murderer or murderers, and it is believed that Gov. Whyte will soon supplement this action by a similar offer on the part of the State.”

A Coroner’s inquest was held the next morning.

Francis M. Goddard was the last one to see Scofield

Chronicle

alive at about 10:30 p.m. on the night of the murder.

He was then alone, having sent his little daughter, who was in the habit of sleeping with him at the store, to the house about 150 yards away. The murder occurred between the time Goddard left and 3:00 the following morning when the house was discovered in flames. No suspects were identified and a reward of $500 was offered.

It was noted that “neither the store nor the goods were insured, and it is known he had a considerable amount of money in his possession at the time of the murder as he had been collecting means for several weeks preparing to make his spring purchases in Baltimore. His account books were destroyed and hence his children are not only deprived of from comforts of a parent but reduced from a comparative comfort to extreme poverty.”

Two of the children were at the house the night of the murder while one of the boys was visiting family in Connecticut.

The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

32

To submit your event listing to go in our Community Calendar, please email news@countytimes.net with the listing details by 12 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to our Thursday publication.

February, Month Long: Picturing the Past – Opening and Reception The North End Gallery (41652 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown) View one of the most beautiful historic sites in the nation through an artist’s eyes.

The North End Gallery features images and objects inspired by Historic St. Mary’s City.

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 30 Bingo American Legion (6330 Crain Highway, La Plata) - 6 to 9:30 p.m.

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 82 will hold smoke-free BINGO with early birds beginning at 7 p.m. at Harry White Wilmer American Legion Post 82.

Doors open 6 p.m. Call 301-934-8221 for information.

Wicked Wings VFW 2632 (23282 Three Notch Rd, California) – 5 to 8 p.m.

The best wings in Southern Maryland.

Big Wings. Not those tooth picks you get down the street. $8 for 10 wings, breaded or naked. Get them like you want them. Hot, RRR, Old Bay, butter and garlic, Mild or Teriyaki. You will get them fast and with a smile. Brought to you by the all veteran World Famous Wing Night Crew.

Chili Dinner and School Open House St. Michael’s School (16560 Three Notch Road, Ridge) - 5 to 7 pm In celebration of Catholic Schools Week, St. Michael’s School is hosting a school open house and chili dinner. Enjoy bowls of delicious, homemade chili with a wide selection of toppings and cornbread. All you can eat, adults for $5, children 5 - 12 years for $2 and under 5 is free. Another open house is being held Friday, January 31, 10 a.m. to noon.

Or, you call the school to schedule a visit, 301-872-5454.

Friday, Jan 31 Chinese New Year Celebration Sakura Bar & Grill (40874 Merchants Lane, Leonardtown) - Noon to 3 p.m. and 5 to 9:30 p.m.

Celebrate the Chinese New Year in style! The menu includes special Chinese and Malaysian dishes not commonly available at the restaurant, including the “Prosperity Dish,” a fun dish commonly known as “loh sang,” as the highlight. During the meal, diners scoop up food, lift it up high, drop it onto the dish and shout until it is all mixed up. Other dishes include sticky rice cake, bak chang, popiah, beef rendang, pineapple chicken, misua (longevity noodle) and more. The Chinese New Year is celebrated for 15 days. The Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and Koreans celebrate their new year on the same days. Please note that Sakura Bar & Grill reserves the right to change the dishes with other dishes of equivalent value without giving advance notice. Cost is from $68 for a package for two people. Event will also take place on Saturday, Feb. 1 and Sunday, February 2

Saturday, Feb. 1 Leonardtown Babywearing Group Meeting Leonardtown Library (23250 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown) – 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

This will be a typical meeting. Those who have borrowed carriers at a previous meeting return them. Then, around 9:45, introductions begin. After that, the babywearing educators do a demo based on requests from the crowd. This might be a simple overview of types of carriers or demo of specific carries, depending on what everyone wants to see. From there, attendees break into smaller groups and chat, try new carriers and work on anything the crowd is interested in. Around 11:15, the group will take some time to check out carriers and start cleaning up the library room. Meetings are free and all are welcome to attend, including dads, partners, grandparents, nannies, expecting parents and older siblings.

All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner Knights of Columbus Hall in Ridge - 4 to 7 p.m.

Come enjoy a home cooked meal. There will be meatless sauce, meatballs, salad, bread and a dessert table will be available.

Adults are $10, children 5 to 12 are $5 and children 4 and under are free. Carryouts will be available.

Grocery Auction St. Mary’s Bryantown (13735 Notre Dame Place, Bryantown) - 5 to 8 p.m.

St. Mary’s Bryantown is sponsoring a “grocery auction” to support the 8th grade trip to New York City. Doors open at 4 and auction starts at 5. Please pass the word to your family and friends, because the more people in attendance, the better the deals.

Hot dogs, refreshments and desserts will be available to purchase. Please contact the school at 301-932-6883 if you have any questions.

Six Flags America Entertainment Department Auditions Six Flags America (13710 Central Ave., Upper Marlboro) - 3 to 6 p.m.

Auditions will also take place on Sunday, Feb. 2. This is a casting call for all local talent, including Ambassadors of Fun (Character Escorts), Costume Characters, Actors, Hosts, Emcees, Dancers and Theater Ushers. Individuals must be at least 16 years of age and should arrive at least a half hour early to auditions dressed in comfortable clothes and shoes that allow free movement. Contact lpagett@sftp.com or 301-867-0236.

Sunday, Feb. 2 Free Little League Baseball Clinic Carver Recreation Center (47382 Lincoln Avenue, Lexington Park) - 1 to 4 p.m.

St. Mary’s National Little League will be hosting a free Baseball clinic for all locally registered Little Leaguers. You will be able to register your child at the clinic or you can register at sports.bluesombrero.com/ smnll. If you have any questions, please email tnelly91@yahoo.com. There will also be a clinic on Feb. 16.

Super Bowl Cook-Off Party VFW 2632 (23282 Three Notch Road, California) - 4 to 9 p.m.

Join for our Annual Super Bowl CookOff Party and watch the game on one of for big-screen TV’s. Enjoy home-cooked food and hang out with your friends at the VFW. Categories are chili, gumbo and soup (includes chowder). Entries will be accepted until 5 p.m. Judging is based on aroma, consistency, color, taste and aftertaste.

Cash Awards for 1st Place finishers. See http://www.vfwpost2632.com/Upcoming_ Events.html for more rules and information.

Hope to see you there!

Little Bosses TV Reality Casting Call

South Bowie Branch Library, Large Meeting Room (15301 Hall Road, Bowie) - 2 to 4:30 p.m.

This is a casting call for all youth entrepreneurs from age 7 to 20 with an existing business who can be featured on a Little Bosses TV Reality Show, Documentary and Magazine showcase. No cost, and no headshots required. Photo will be taken at casting call. LBN 2014 Casting Call will be filmed.

Parent or guardian onsite signed release of documentary and photos required for all youth under age 18. All entrepreneurs under age 18 must be accompanied by a manager, agent, parent or guardian. If accompanied by manager or agent, manager or agent must provide proof of client contract. Send email to reality@littlebosses.com to receive casting guidelines and confirm attendance.

Monday, Feb. 3 Book Discussion Charlotte Hall Library (37600 New Market Rd, Charlotte Hall) – 7 p.m.

Participants will discuss the book The Soloist by Steve Lopez. It is the true story of journalist Steve Lopez’s discovery of a former classical bass student living on Los Angeles’ Skid Row, and how the relationship had a profound change on both their lives. Copies are available at the library.

301-884-2211 Introduction to Computers Leonardtown Library (23250 Hollywood Rd, Leonardtown) – 2 to 4 p.m.

Adults will learn the components, vocabulary and general use of the computer. Free, but registration required.

301-475-2846

Thursday, Feb. 6 Annual Forrest Center Tech Expo Forrest Career & Technology Center (Leonardtown) - 5:30 p.m.

The Dr. James A. Forrest Career & Technology Center or “Forrest Center,” will host its fourteenth annual Forrest Center Tech Expo on Thursday at the school site, directly across from the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds in Leonardtown. The purpose of the Forrest Center Tech Expo is to familiarize students and parents with Career and Technology Education (CTE) career options offered by the St. Mary’s County Public Schools. This is an opportunity to meet the

Mike Batson Photography

The Cove/D.F.Z.: a safe, fun & sober place to be for youth ages 12-17 with concerns related to drugs or alcohol. Free activities & peer support for guests located at 44871 St. Andrew’s Church Rd. in California.

Want to get in shape? Come to the gym with us!

Sign up required: 301-997-1300 x 865 Starting in February: open Tuesdays 5-6:30 p.m. for SMART Recovery plus Family & Friends meetings!

Beacon of Hope: a free center offering social & learning options and peer support for adults in a fun & clean, sober atmosphere, located at 21800 N. Shangri La, Millison Plaza, Lexington Park. Like us on Facebook!

Freelance Photographers

Events Weddings Family Portraits 301-938-3692 mikebatsonphotography@hotmail.com https://www.facebook.com/mikebatsonphotography

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The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

staff at the Forrest Center and to learn about the 24 completer programs currently offered. Middle school and high school counselors will be available to answer questions about career clusters and to assist students in planning their academic program. The Forrest Center will provide special presentations for parents to explain the registration process and how to incorporate Forrest Center programs into their student’s schedule.

For more details, contact the Dr. James A. Forrest Career & Technology Center at 301475-0242. In the event of inclement weather, the alternate date for the Forrest Center Tech Expo will be Thursday, Feb. 13 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event may be recorded and presented on SMCPS Channel 96, the school system’s educational cable channel, and the Internet.

Southern Maryland JobSource Mobile Career Center Charlotte Hall Library (New Market Rd, Charlotte Hall) - 9 to 1 p.m.

Job seekers can stop by to get job counseling and resume help, search for jobs and get connected with Southern Maryland JobSource. The Coordinator will help job seekers get registered with the Maryland Workforce Exchange. 301-880-2810 Tasty Tacos & Chili Dogs VFW 2632 (23282 Three Notch Road, California) - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The VFW is a great place to enjoy

some delicious tacos or chili dogs. It’s your choice, or mix and match. One for $1.75, three for $5 or five for $8.25 Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS) & I-Corps: Linking Innovative Technology with University System of Maryland Resources Wyle Building (1 North, Conference Room, Exploration Drive, Lexington Park) - 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Speaker is Joe Naft, director of MIPS., MD Details and registration at www. paxpartnership.org/index. cfm?action=CL2&Entry=1287.

Friday, Feb 7 SMTMD Contra Dance Christ Episcopal Church Parish Hall 9 (37497 Zach Fowler Rd, Chaptico) 7 to 10 p.m.

This Contra Dance, sponsored by Southern Maryland Traditional Music and Dance (SMTMD), features caller Ann Fallon. Please note this is a deviation from the regular 2nd Saturday venue, due to scheduling concerns. The doors open at 7 and the dancing begins at 7:30. Contra is a traditional American style of social dance and is a huge amount of fun and exercise. If you’ve ever danced a Virginia Reel or been to a Square Dance, you have a good idea how much fun it can be. If you haven’t, it’s about time you tried it. Beginners are encouraged

to arrive at 7 to get some instruction in the various dances. Admission is $10 for nonSMTMD members and $6 for members (band members are free). No special clothing is required. You need to be comfortable and able to move freely. There will be an ice cream social following the dance. For more information and directions go to www.smtmd.org.

Texas Hold’em Tournament VFW Post 2632 (23282 Three Notch Road, California) - 7 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

This is a no limit Texas Holdem tournament. There is $110 buy in, with $90 prize pool and $20 charity, and an optional $10 add-on to Receive an extra $1000 and 50/50 entry.

Sign In is from 6:20 to 6:45 p.m., and tournament starts at 7 p.m. for an early bird bonus, an extra $500, register and pay by 6:45 p.m. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required. Late players accepted until the end of the 1st break, after about one hour.

Payouts are determined by the number of entries. With 50 – 100 players, nine places paid. The public is welcome. Must be 18 or older to play. Side games are available.

For more information, or to pre-register contact Brian: at poker@vfw2632.com or 240-925-4000 First Friday in Leonardtown Leonardtown Square (Leonardtown) - 5 p.m.

Art gallery exhibits, free receptions, meet and greet with authors and artists, wine tastings, free hands on activities, live music and more at various Leonardtown businesses every First Friday. www.leonardtownfirstfridays.com Picturing the Past – Opening and Reception The North End Gallery (41652 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown) 5 to 8 p.m.

View one of the most beautiful historic sites in the nation through an artist’s eyes.

The North End Gallery features images and objects inspired by Historic St. Mary’s City.

This is a public opening and reception, but the exhibit will be shown all month

Saturday, Feb. 8 Meet the Airplane: Curtis A-1 Patuxent River Naval Air Museum (22156 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park) – noon to 3 p.m.

This is a family fun event. We’ll have plenty of family activities including making paper airplanes, carrier landings, radar games and helium balloons.

A panel of experts will be available to discuss all aspects of this aircraft, starting at 2 p.m. Days Off Catering will have their truck outside with your choice of yummy food.

We’ll have a special sweet treat for the kids as well. (301) 863-7418

CHURCH SERVICES DIRECTORY Running the 1st & 3rd Week of Each Month

To Advertise in the Church Services Directory, Call The County Times at 301-373-4125

ANGLICAN

BAPTIST CHURCH

THE ANGLICAN MISSION OF SOUTHERN MARYLAND

HUGHESVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH

Sundays - 10 AM 41695 Fenwick Street Unit 3 Leonardtown, MD 20650 301/475-9337 www.amosm.net

BAHA’I FAITH BAHA’I FAITH God is One, Man is One, and All Religions are One

Discussions 3rd Wed. 7-8 Lex Pk Library, Longfellow Rm 301-884-8764 or www.bahai.org

A member of the Southern Baptist Convention 8505 Leonardtown Road, Hughesville, MD 20637 301-884-8645 or 301-274-3627 Transitional Pastor Dr. Ron Blankenship Associate Pastor Kevin Cullins

• Sunday Morning Worship • Sunday School (all ages) • Sunday Evening Worship & Bible Study • Wednesday Discipleship Classes (Adults, youth & Children)

10:30am 9:15 am 6:00 pm 7:00 pm

CATHOLIC CHURCH St. Cecelia Church

47950 Mattapany Rd, PO Box 429 St. Mary’s City, MD 20686 301-862-4600 Vigil Mass: 4:30 pm Saturday Sunday: 8:00 am Weekday (M-F): 7:30 am Confessions: 3-4 pm Saturday www.stceciliaparish.com

BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH Victory Baptist Church 29855 Eldorado Farm rd CharlottE hall, md 20659

301-884-8503

Order Of gOOd news services sun schOOl, all ages…...............10:00 sun mOrning wOrship.............…11:00 sun evening wOrship….................7:00 wed evening prayer mtg.........…7:00

ProClaiming thE ChangElEss word in a Changing world.

Jesus saves victOrybaptistchurchmd.Org

The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Entertainment

34

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer The Port Tobacco Players production of “Death by Chocolate,” by Paul Freed, starts off with a bang and keeps going, keeping theatre goers on the edge of their seat with both anticipation and laughter for two hours.

Everything is perfect for the grand opening of Meadowbrook Health Resort. If you consider perfection a staff made up of clueless general manager John Stone (played by James LePore), terrified, neurotic Nurse Anne Smith (played by Kristy Charnock) and long suffering personal assistant Dyslexia (played by Joanna Graupman).

When resort cook Edith Childes (played by Lynne O’Meara) drops dead, uttering the cryptic phrase “don’t eat chalk,” Lady Riverdale (played

by Susan Fischer) will do absolutely anything to keep it under wraps. Then physical trainer Ralph Deadwood (played by David Timmerman) kicks the bucket and Lady Riverdale and John Stone have their work cut out trying to keep it from nosey reporter Margared Daniels (played by Susan Claggett).

It certainly doesn’t help that writer Ed Parlor

Don’t Eat the Chocolate!

Photos courtesy of Tia LePore, Tia Rose Photography

(played by Doug Gaupman) believes the whole thing, from the setting at a spooky mansion turned health spa to the delicious murder weapon sitting in a box on John Stone’s desk, is absolutely perfect for his next play.

“Death by Chocolate” has a bit of a shaky relationship with the fourth wall.

Throw in grieving daughter Sweet Pea Meadowbrook (played by Melissa Gilpin Ball), a shifty butler named Alfred (played by Greg Rumpf) and perky, enthusiastic aerobics instructor Dick Simmering (played by Sean Michael Fraser) and the stage is set for a comedic murder mystery.

The plot is only enhanced by a well designed set, a pun every five minutes and the momentary use of a strobe light. LePore Director David Standish with some of the most creative moments in the play, which only gets more zany with every showing.

“Death By Chocolate” runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 24 through Feb 9.

Tickets are $17 for adults and $14 for students, seniors and members of the military.

Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8 p.m. and Sunday performances begin at 3 p.m. The theater opens 30 minutes prior to showtime.

For more information, including booking tickets, call 301932-6819, e-mail ptpplayers@verizon.net or visit www.ptplayers.com. The theatre is located at 508 Charles Street in La Plata. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Two Hearts As One

By Kimberly Alston Contributing Writer Annmarie Gardens is hosting an Intro to Fused Glass: Valentine Hearts class on Wednesday, Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. In this class, instructor Leza Helper will be giving basic instructions on how to fuse glass into hearts, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Helper has been working in glasswork for about 25 years; she spent 22 years working at a studio in Florida before moving to Maryland and working at Annmarie Gardens.

Fused glass, she said, is taking glass pieces, whether stained glass or ground up glass or dichroic glass, which changes color in certain lighting, overlapping the

pieces and tacking them together with heat, so that they melt into each other, creating the shape, color and pattern that is desired.

As the class is an introduction to glass fusing, Helper will teach about kilns, which will have to be heated to 1,400 degrees for the glass to be hot enough to fuse together. She will teach not only about the fusing process but the transition period, due to the Coefficient of Expansion, where the glass can not be taken out of the kiln before it cools or else it will crack.

While on her own, Helper does do custom glasswork, she said that she likes teaching more, because of the light that she gets to see in a class’ eyes when they discover something new, or when they become inspired.

For this particular class, all the materials needed

will be provided at the beginning of the class. The class is geared towards people ages 16 and older. Because the glass needs time to fire in the kiln and then cool, students will have to come back at another time to pick up their work.

There is a $25 cost for the class, $20 for members.

There is also a materials fee of $8 that is due to the instructor at the start of the class. To register for the class, please call 410-326-4640. Advanced registration is required. The Intro to Fused Glass: Valentine Hearts class is located at Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center, 13840 Dowell Rd., in Dowell. For more information, visit www.annmariegarden.org. kimberlyalston@countytimes.net

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The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

n O g Goin

In Entertainment

Thursday, Jan. 30

Sunday, Feb. 2

Hydra FX Ruddy Duck Brewery (13200 Dowell Road, Dowell) - 7:30 p.m. to midnight

Country Memories Band St. Mary’s Landing (29935 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall) – 4 to 7 p.m.

CCPR-Comedy Night Jake & Al’s (258 Town Square Drive, Lusby) - 4 to 9:30 p.m.

Super Bowl Party Apehanger’s Bar & Grill (9100 Crain Highway, Bel Alton) – 6 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 31

Tonight’s Alibi Anthony’s Bar and Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Boulevard, Dunkirk) 11 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Dj Charlie Thompson Toot’s Bar (23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) - 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Jim Bennett Motown Band Martini’s Restaurant & Lounge (10553 Theodore Green Boulevard, White Plains) - 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 1 Groove Span Band The Blue Dog Saloon (7940 Port Tobacco Road, Port Tobacco) - 8:30 to 11:30 p.m.

The Redwine Jazz Trio Westlawn Inn (9200 Chesapeake Avenue, North Beach) – 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Random Impact Toot’s Bar (23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) 8:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m.

R&R Train Cryers Back Road Inn (22094 Newtowne Neck Road, Leonardtown) – 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Team Trivia Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill (13200 Dowell Road, Dowell) - 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 4 Fair Warning DB McMillan’s Pub & Grill (23415 Three Notch Road, California) - 5 to 9 p.m.

Line Dancing Lesson Hotel Charles (15110 Burnt Store Road, Hughesville) - 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 5 Karaoke with Dj Harry Big Dogs Paradise (28765 Three Notch Road, Mechanicsville) – 8 p.m. to close

Mason Sebastian DB McMillan’s Pub & Grill (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 5 to 9 p.m.

1894200

Dueling Pianos Vera’s White Sands Beach Club (1200 White Sands Drive, Lusby) 8 to 11 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 3

Thursday, Feb. 6 Dave Norris DB McMillan’s Pub & Grill (23415 Three Notch Road, California) - 6 to 10 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 7

Country Memories Band Vera’s White Sands Beach Club (1200 White Sands Drive, Lusby) 7 to 11 p.m.

NEW YEARS SAVINGS START TODAY! Our New Year’s Gift To You (55 & Older)

Lexington Park

Active Adult Community

The County Times is always looking for more local 21895 Pegg Road • Lexington Park, MD 20653 talent to feature! To submit art or band information for our entertainment section, e-mail info@ • FREE UTILITIES somdpublishing.net. Please submit calendar • FREE 1ST MONTH RENT listings by 12 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to our • FREE USE OF OUR INDOOR HEATED POOL Thursday publication.

• FREE TO BE HAPPY AND ENJOY SENIOR LIVING

Email in your Engagement Announcement Today!

It’s Free! angiestalcup@countytimes.net

OPENINGS ARE LIMITED SO CALL TODAY FOR YOUR PERSONAL TOUR

(240) 725-0111

The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

CLASSIFIEDS Placing An Ad

Email your ad to: sales@countytimes.net or Call: 301-373-4125 or Fax: 301-373-4128. Liner Ads (No artwork or special type) Charged by the line with the 4 line minimum. Display Ads (Ads with artwork, logos, or special type) Charged by the inch with the 2 inch minimum. All private party ads must be paid before ad is run.

Real Estate Rentals Peaceful 3 Bed Room, 2 1/2 Bath Split Foyer with a f lat fenced in backyard.

Excellent for family with children. On a no thru street. House is located in White Sands Development approx .5 miles from Route 4, and about 20 miles from Pax Air Station. Quiet friendly, neighbors. Large Master Bedroom with walkin closet. Huge attic with lots of storage space, Full size laundry room with washer and dryer. Recently remodeled bathrooms. New f looring on first f loor. 8x8 wooden shed for storage. Pets on case by case basis. For more information please email kirks. est.2004@gmail.com or call Mark at 301-751-9309.

Publication Days

The County Times is published each Thursday.

Deadlines are Wednesday at 12 noon Office hours are: Monday thru Friday 8am - 4pm

Important Information

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

Employment

Employment

L

Looking for a auto detailer with mechanical skills. Primary job will be detailing automobiles. Some mechanical experience will be required for heavy times. If interested please e-mail algar34@gmail.com or fax resume to 301-737-4206 or call 301-737-6400.

Seeking Dynamic Assistant Football Coaches

for Freshman, JV & Varsity HS football program. Need dedicated individuals with specialty skill sets to include D-line and WR training. Ability to teach and transfer knowledge to athletes a must.

These positions are time intensive. Must be available @ 3pm sharp.

Only serious applicants need apply.

Must possess the ability to pass criminal background check required to work with youth.

Send resume and qualifications to LHSQBC2013@gmail.com.

are you looking for a new career?

WE ARE HIRING

we are looking for YOU to join our team of sales professionals in our St. Mary’s and Calvert Publications

call us right away!

301-373-4125

Chesapeake Neurology Associates has a full-time position available for a RN/ LPN. Experience preferred. Candidate must possess current Maryland Licensure.

Strong writing skills necessary. Act as a liaison between patient and MD/ CRNP in meeting patient needs between office visits. Additional responsibilities discussed during interview. Paid holidays, health benefits package, and flexible schedule. No phone calls accepted. Faxed resumes only to (410) 535-6030.

Employment Wine & Craft Beer Position (Calvert County)

Maryland Wine & Craft Beer distributor looking for qualified and experienced sales person for Calvert County territory. We offer comprehensive salary with eventual conversion to commission (when territory generates more commission than salary). We offer monetary support for cell phone and car use. We offer medical and dental insurance and a 401K plan with generous matching funds.

Please email resume and salary history to Lax422@aol.com ATTN H/R Sales

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR The St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission (MetCom) provides water and sewer services for residents and businesses in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. MetCom has a customer base of over 16,000 and exceeds $20 million in annual revenues. There is an immediate opening for an Assistant Director.

The Assistant Director works very closely with the Commission’s Executive Director on a day-to day basis; assists the Executive Director with the management of the Commission’s operations and the oversight of its employees by ensuring that the Executive Director’s directives and assignments are carried out in an expedient and professional manner. The position provides direct administrative support to the Executive Director; represents the Executive Director before various county, state, and federal agencies, committees, commissions, and elected and appointed officials; and serves in the Executive Director’s capacity when the Executive Director is absent for extended periods of time.

This position prepares the Administrative Department’s annual operating budget and coordinates the preparation of the MetCom annual operating budgets and capital improvement budgets by the other Departments.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in related discipline plus seven or more years of relevant experience; or Master’s degree in related discipline plus five or more years of relevant experience; Financial and budgetary experience a plus.

Salary: Minimum starting salary $90,050 DOQ. Excellent benefit package.

Applicants are strongly urged to request a copy of the position description to review the complete list of employment requirements.

Position is open until filled. Applicants must complete a MetCom application.

MetCom does not discriminate on the basis of race, marital status, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental handicap, political affiliation, or other non-merit factors.

Send e-mail, fax, or mail resume and salary requirements to the following:

or e-mail us at info@countytimes.net

St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission Attn: Director of Human Resources 23121 Camden Way California, Maryland 301-737-7459 (fax) mchr@metcom.org

TEL: 301-373-4125 • FAX: 301-373-4128 • sales@countytimes.net

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

Business

The County Times

Directory Phone 301-884-5900 1-800 524-2381

Phone 301-934-4680 Fax 301-884-0398

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46 Days Till St. Patrick’s Day

No need to save register tapes.

Your purchases will be automatically accumulated . . . just check your register receipt for your update.

Entertainment All Day

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$50 a Week

FOR BOTH PAPERS!*

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P Alexander, LLC. A MOBILITY EQUIPMENT REPAIR COMPANY

Let me plan your next vacation!

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Stair Lifts • Lift Chairs Electric Wheel Chairs 301-980-4265

Email: www.palexander.mobi or Visit: paulbbalex@gmail.com

Your Online Community For Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties www.somd.com

*COMMIT TO 12 WEEKS IN BOTH NEWSPAPERS AT GREAT DISCOUNTS! REGULAR PRICE: $65 Per Week In Each Newspaper Contact Cindi: 301-373-4125 sales@ countytimes.net

TEL: 301-373-4125 • FAX: 301-373-4128 • bizdirect@countytimes.net

The County Times

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Games

56. Remove all traces of 58. Yemen capital 59. Passover feast and ceremony 60. Trenches

29. Language spoken in Russia 31. Split occupancy 34. Diacritics for s’s 36. Mobile camper 37. Affirmative (slang) CLUES DOWN 38. Bachelor of Laws 1. Proper fractions 39. ___ Angeles 2. Ridgeline 40. State police 3. Marshland area of E. England 41. U.S. gold coin worth 4. Flood Control District 10 dollars 5. Canadian province (abbr.)

42. Bets on 6. Project Runway designer 45. Million barrels per judge’s initials day (abbr.)

7. Along with 46. Macaws 8. Orderly and clean 47. Julie Andrews and Judi 9. A short-barreled pocket Dench pistol 49. Capital of Morocco 10. Extraterrestrial being 51. Oh, God! 13. Ancient capital of Ethiopia 52. ____ Carvey, comedian 14. Goof 54. Point midway between E 16. Annoy constantly and SE 17. Haitian monetary unit (abbr.) 55. Principle of Chinese 21. Arrived extinct philoshophy 22. Belonging to a thing 57. Trauma center 23. Tounge click 58. Atomic #62 26. Fireman’s signal 27. Connecticut 28. 3rd tone of the scale

Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions

e i d d i K Kor

ner

CLUES ACROSS 1. Duck cartoon character 6. Town in Guinea 11. Upright posture 12. Rest on your knees 13. Move upward 15. Disposed to take risks 18. Makes a sweater 19. Grooved surface of a tire 20. Identical in kind 21. Radiotelegraphic signal 24. “Picnic” author William 25. Bashkir Republic capital 26. Male highlanders 30. Doing several things at once 32. Title of respect 33. Old world, new 35. “Sophie’s Choice” actress 43. Encloses completely 44. Decaliter 45. Makes angry 48. Commercial free network 49. Latvian capital 50. Tycho __, Danish astronomer 52. Leave slowly and hesitantly 53. Harm to property 55. Dining, pool and coffee

38

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Thursday, January 30, 2014

Wanderings of anAimless

d

Min

“Things to Remember”

By Shelby Oppermann Contributing Writer I have been compiling a little list of some things to not do. This usually means that I have done said thing or come close to doing it with bad results. You might have compiled a list of your own as well. I’ve mentioned the first two before, but it hasn’t stopped me from continuing to do either of them right up until last week as a matter of fact: When up in the middle of the night wandering around with nothing to do – including sleep. Do not look in the mirror. Your eyes are a little unfocused, you are a little wired, and all of a sudden you see white eyebrow hairs. Please do not start plucking said hairs. There is a real good chance that there might be more white eyebrow hairs on one side than the other. You get the picture.

Another no-no for a middle of the night beauty scan or flaw scan with same mirror scenario is: Do not say to yourself, “My hair is flat, with no lift or life. Wow, I might be able to wait a few more weeks and see the hair dresser if I use my pair of hair-thinning scissors.”

I’ll just trim straight back from my bangs and through my part to the back of my head.” Do you know there is really no way to curl back or tame groups of one inch hairs. So half of my head is crew cut with spikes. And again see above paragraph about taking off more on one side of the other. By no means, cut as far back as your cowlick.

Now, on to more recent things that have been added on to my “Not To Do” list.

This past Christmas I received two pairs of those lovely Aloe Vera infused fuzzy socks. You know - the ones that are made for pampering and lounging. I love them. I wear them to bed and my feet feel so soft by morning. But there is one thing that the sock manufacturers don’t warn you about. Do not walk immediately into a shower after you having been wearing the lotioninfused socks. It’s like having an ice-skating rink in the shower. A warning label should say: Please wash feet before entering shower.

When you feel like you are so achy that only a nice, hot bath will do…But you have one knee with Tendonitis and the other is sounding crunchy, remember to have an escape plan or a spouse within earshot. I thank God that there are not You Tube ready cameras everywhere in this world to see the humiliation and frustration of getting out of a tub. Anyone old enough to remember the 1967-68 series “The Prisoner” will understand.

When you are really sleepy and are ready to do your last teeth-brushing of the night. Be very careful not to leave the tube of Aspercreme right next to your toothpaste tube – which is the exact same size.

It might sound like I spend all my time in the bathroom. No I don’t. But lest you think that I do, there is one other important thing to remember (at least for artists). Do not place your tea or coffee cup too close to your water bowl for paint brushes. Yes, I have done this too.

To each new day’s adventure, Shelby Please send your comments or ideas to: shelbys.wanderings@yahoo.com or find me on facebook: Shelby Oppermann

The County Times

Sports News

Burkhart to Take the Helm Lance Burkhart Named 3rd Manager in Blue Crabs History

The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have announced that former Blue Crabs catcher and most recently, Lancaster Barnstormers hitting coach, Lance Burkhart, has been named the third Blue Crabs manager in franchise history.

Burkhart was named to manage the Blue Crabs as the handpicked successor to Patrick Osborn, it was announced today by general manager Patrick Day. Osborn signed with the New York Yankees organization on December 19th to manage one of their organizations’ Gulf Coast League affiliates.

Burkhart joins the Blue Crabs after serving in Lancaster as the hitting coach under former Blue Crabs manager, Butch Hobson.

“I’m real happy for Lance, he’s been patient, and his opportunity is finally here,” said Lancaster Barnstormers manager Butch Hobson. “We’re going to miss him in Lancaster, but he’s going to do wonderful things.

He’s a baseball guy with the perfect mind for the sport.”

Burkhart, 39, was drafted in the 15th round of 1997 MLB draft by the Montreal Expos. The former righthanded hitting catcher joined the Barnstormers in 2005 after spending time in the Montreal, Texas, Baltimore, and Milwaukee minor league systems. With the Barnstormers, Burkhart amassed 61 regular season home runs, which still stands as the club’s all-time record.

In 2009, the St. Louis, Missouri native joined the Blue Crabs. Serving as the primary backstop, Burkhart hit .242 with 13 home runs and 48 RBI for the Liberty Division Champion Blue Crabs.

In his four seasons as the Lancaster hitting coach, the Barnstormers offense had a .281 batting average and averaged nearly 150 home runs and 700 runs scored per season. All amongst the tops of the Atlantic League.

“It’s a dream come true for me to move into the managerial position in Southern Maryland,” said Blue Crabs manager Lance Burkhart. “I’m familiar with the team and the organization because I played here a few years back. I was always fond of my time here as a player, and I’m looking incredibly forward to spending a good amount of time here as a manager. I’m very excited to meet the fans, the front office members, all of the booster club members, and my new team. I can’t wait for Opening Day!” Southern Maryland has compiled a 369-329 record, during the franchise’s first seven seasons and has compiled five consecutive playoff appearances.

The Blue Crabs play 140 regular season games in the Atlantic League, considered the highest level of Minor League Baseball. Atlantic League players are “Major League ready” and in the last 15 years, over 600 players have graduated from Atlantic League clubs to Major League organizations, making the League a preferred route for experienced players to be scouted

by Major League Baseball. The Blue Crabs play at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf, Maryland. The franchise will look to open its 7th season on Thursday, April 24. Please call 301-638-9788 or visit www.SOMDbluecrabs.com for more information and to save your seat at the ballpark today!

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