2014-03-06 The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

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A Family Business Three Generations and Growing Photo Courtesy of Scott Taylor

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Thursday, March 6, 2014

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Thursday, March 6, 2014

The County Times

Thursday March 6, 2014 27 26

“I said I’d never be one of these people but I was.

It’s everywhere.”

— Brandi Cooper on her addiction to opiates and her eventual intravenous use.

4 Local News 8 Business 10 Cops & Courts 12 Letters 14 Education 16 Feature Story 18 Obituaries 19 Home Page 20 Sports 22 Community 23 Library Items 23 Book Review 24 Community Calendar 26 Entertainment 27 Entertainment Calendar 28 Games 28 Classifieds 29 Business Directory 30 Senior 30 History 31 Wanderings of an Aimless Mind 31 Health 31 Joyce to the World

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

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Time to Spring Ahead One Hour

Thursday, March 6, before 2014going4to bed on Sa The County Times mark their calendars and set their clocks ahead one hour

Leonardtown, MD – The Department of Emergency Services & Technology remin

Local

Daylight Saving Time officially begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9.

News

While you are setting the time on your clocks, it's also a great time to change the bat smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety (CPSC) recommends the batteries be replaced annually and the alarms be tested ever

Financial Irregularities Discovered at Newtowne Neck Church

For more information on Emergency Preparedness visit prepare.stmarysmd.com.

Time to Spring Ahead One Hour

Interested in becoming a Fire and or Emergency Medical Services Member? Please c Recruitment & Retention Coordinator at 301-475-4200 ext. 2114 or emergency.services@stmarysmd.com.

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer For more than a year the Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. and now the state’s attorney’s office have been investigating financial irregularities that were discovered at St. Francis Xavier parish in Newtowne Neck with questions surrounding the management of a pastor who had served there for nearly two decades, The County Times has learned.

A representative from the archdiocese confirmed that the matter was first investigated by ecclesiastic officials and then handed over to local authorities for further investigation after the church’s own lengthy auditing process using outside accountants.

The archdiocese’s investigation “discovered financial irregularities” said spokeswoman Chieko Noguchi and “possible improper handling of parishioners’ contributions

by Fr. John Mattingly.”

The congregation was informed of the results of the diocesan investigation in a letter read to them Feb. 8 during a church service, Noguchi said.

She said that when investigators confronted Mattingly, who retired from service in the church in 2010, that his answers revealed little about where the money went.

“He wasn’t able to provide an explanation about the financial irregularities,” Noguchi said. “We couldn’t wait any longer to inform the parish.”

State’s Attorney Richard Fritz declined to comment on any investigation by his office but the diocese confirmed that the case had been handed over to county authorities.

No charges have been filed against Mattingly, who served as parish priest for about 18 years.

Parishioners who spoke to The County Times privately said that when they were informed of the investigation The Department #of# Emergency Services & and the questions surrounding their tithes and offerings # Technology reminds citizens to mark their calenthey were shocked. dars and set their clocks ahead one hour before goThey also knew that after Mattingly had left the parish that they found out that their congregation was not finaning to bed on Saturday night. cially secure.

Daylight Saving Time officially begins at 2 St. Mary’s County Government will be responsive and accountable to the county’s citizens; provide high quality, cos A source close to the parish, speaking onpreserve condition a.m. on Sunday, services; the county’s environment, heritageMarch and rural9.character and foster opportunities for present and of anonymity, said that the finances there were actually While you are setting the time on your clocks, near the level of insolvency despite the fact of parishioner it’s also a great time to change the batteries in your contributions. smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Parishioners, though, the source said believed that the The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission church was in good financial shape and were never told (CPSC) recommends the batteries be replaced anabout the dire conditions before Mattingly’s retirement. nually and the alarms be tested every month.

After the retirement of Mattingly, however, the source For more information on Emergency Presaid that income to the church improved quickly to the paredness visit prepare.stmarysmd.com. point that the church could pay its bills and set aside money Interested in becoming a Fire and or Emerfor future endeavors. gency Medical Services Member? Please contact Calls to Mattingly seeking comment for this article our Recruitment & Retention Coordinator at 301were not returned as of press time.

475-4200 ext. 2114 or emergency.services@stmarysmd.com. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Hits for Heroes Gears Up for Another Fundraising Year

First College President Candidate to Visit Today

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Photo by Guy Leonard

Debbie Williams takes aim on the shuffle bowl game at the Back Road Inn in Compton for a Hits for Heroes benefit for wounded veterans.

Through fundraising events last year, Hits for Heroes were able to donate more than $33,000 to two St. Mary’s County veterans.

The first of three finalists for the president’s chair at St. Mary’s College of Maryland is set to visit the campus in St. Mary’s City today after a lengthy search by the institution’s administration.

Charles Carmello, the associate provost for Academic Affairs at the graduate school of the University of Maryland will be the first to visit the campus, according to a release from the college.

The second candidate, Kim Mooney, the provost and vice president for academic affairs at Franklin Pierce University, is set to visit March 11 while Tuajuanda Jordan, dean of Lewis and Clark College will visit March 13.

Each candidate will have extensive meeting times with faculty, staff and students during their visits.

An open forum that will allow alumni and the local community to meet with the candidates is set for the late afternoon and will be

electronically recorded to allow those who could not attend to learn about the candidates, according to college leadership.

In the next several weeks the college’s Board of Trustees is set to meet in executive session to review the input on all three candidates and make their review with the presidential search committee.

The board will then select a candidate to become the college’s president.

In a release from the college, Gail Harmon, chair of the presidential search committee, said the group met just last week with 11 semi-finalists. After the interviews over a two-day period they narrowed the field to these three candidates.

The college was forced to look for a new president when its previous leader Joseph Urgo left after freshmen enrollment plummeted and the board of trustees had to find ways to make up for a $3.5 million budget shortfall.

Since that time Ian Newbould as served as the college’s interim president. guyleonard@countytimes.net

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Thursday, March 6, 2014

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News

Commissioners Appoint Economic Steering Committee

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer After a lengthy search for participants from a broad of range of economic and business interests county leaders have made their choice for who will help devise the major strategy for diversifying the county’s economy.

Months ago the Board of County Commissioners voted to seek federal funds to create an economic development commission that would seek public comment and oversee the planning for economic diversification.

The commissioner board voted by a 4-to-1 margin Tuesday to install 12 members, one of which will be a nonvoting member, onto the economic steering commission.

Robin Finnacom, director of the county’s Department of Economic and Community Development, said the group still needed one more member from the U.S. Navy as a non-voting member to round out the commission since

they would be representing the county’s largest employer.

She said the group was a strong showing of the county’s economic diversity.

“It’s a great balance of small businesses, start-ups, defense contractors, agriculture and tourism,” Finnacom said.

The search lasted for months but Finnacom said getting representation from numerous fields was paramount.

“That was absolutely necessary that we comply with federal funding requirements,” Finnacom said.

Jamie Raley, president of the local St. Mary’s County Farm Bureau and one of the appointees, said he hoped that when the commission began its work it would look closely at all of the county’s economic resources, something prior economic development leaders had said had never been done before.

“I’d like to see us start with an inventory of what we have like land, manufacturing and industrial capacity and

Bill Would Link Firearm, Criminal Databases

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer A bill working its way through the state’s House of Delegates would require the state to link its list of regulated firearms with the criminal justice database to allow the state police to systematically check for people who purchased a firearm before Oct. 1 of last year and who were subsequently found to have committed a disqualifying crime.

Oct. 1 was the deadline for the new assault weapons ban that was passed in the legislature to take affect and thousands of Marylanders rushed to buy either military style rifles before they were restricted or handguns before stringent requirements for training, registration and even fingerprinting were instituted.

But this also created a tremendous backlog of applications which the Maryland State Police were not able complete background checks on time, leaving some firearms to fall into the hands of those with criminal records who later committed crimes.

An analysis of the bill by the state’s Department of Legislative Services shows it would cost $1.4 million to implement the program and would require hiring seven new state troopers to monitor the new database and investigate “hits” on the system.

The program estimates that during the first year of its use the state police would have about 110,000 hits in the system of firearms purchasers who were subsequently convicted of a crime.

The bill was introduced in late January and had a committee hearing Tuesday; it was submitted by Del. Luiz Simmons of Montgomery County.

Gun rights advocates have opposed the bill’s provision that the state police check the database at least twice a year, effectively singling out all purchasers of firearms before Oct. 1 of last year.

John Mountjoy, president of the local Sanners Lake Sportsman’s Club group, said such databases crept dangerously towards a system of national registry.

“Absolutely it smells of that to high heaven,” Mountjoy said. guyleonard@countytimes.net

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if we have any more space for that,” Raley said. “We have to have a baseline from which to start.”

He also said tourism could be a viable way to diversify the economy but that possibility needed a bigger draw for people to go out of their way to what amounts to an isolated peninsula.

“We can make it a destination but we need to see what we can come up with to bring them here other than just the beauty of the place,” Raley said.

The members of the commission include Richard Braam, Carlos Bravo, Daniel Carney, Laura Clarke, Phil Dorsey, Dr. Tracy Harris, Phil Langley, Dr. Garner Morgan, Tom Sanders, Tom Watts and Bill Scarfia, director of the county’s Chamber of Commerce, as an ex-officio member. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Commissioners Unveil 2014 - 2015 Technology Handbook Publication Lauded as a ‘Must Have’ The Board of Commissioners have announced the release of the 2014 - 2015 Technology Handbook for St. Mary’s County. The Handbook provides detailed profiles of the 193 technology businesses located in the county. It is a sought after business-to-business reference tool which documents the expanse of technical capabilities found within the local community.

First published in 1995, the Technology Handbook is a publication of the St. Mary’s County Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), Division of Business Development. The book is available in hard copy and online in a PDF format and as a searchable database at www.stmarysmd.com/decd/handbook. An online version of the Handbook will be continuously updated to keep pace with the dynamic and changing nature of defense and related technology businesses located in St. Mary’s.

“This year’s Handbook cover reminds us that our County has a strong and growing technology community located in a pristine rural setting,” stated Commissioner President Jack Russell. “We have the very best of both worlds,” he said.

Artwork for this year’s cover was designed by Angela Jackson, the winner of The Patuxent Partnership’s cover contest. Ms. Jackson is a St. Mary’s County resident who works as a Logistics Analyst for National Technologies Associates, Inc. located in Lexington Park. She supports the Naval Air Traffic Management Systems, or PMA-213, with development and design of web- based training. Ms. Jackson was recognized by the County Commissioners at the unveiling of the 2014 - 2015 Handbook. She received a $500 prize from The Patuxent Partnership for her winning design.

“The Handbook is the definitive source of information about our technology businesses,” stated Robin Finnacom, DECD Acting Director. “You can identify the capabilities of each company, find out which are headquartered here and gain insight to the magnitude of local sales. This is a ‘must have’ tool for doing business with local technology companies,” she explained.

St. Mary’s County Government will be responsive and accountable to the county’s citizens; provide high quality, cost effective and efficient services; preserve the county’s environment, heritage and rural character and foster opportunities for present and future generations Each company listed in the 2014 - 2015 Technology Handbook will receive a copy by mail. To request a copy of the Handbook, contact Laura Boonchaisri, Economic Development Coordinator, at laura.boonchaisri@stmarysmd.com or call 301-475-4200, ext. 1408.

For more information about doing business in St. Mary’s County, log on to www.stmarysmd.com/decd.

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Thursday, March 6, 2014

The County Times

Woman Finds Redemption After Drug Addiction

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Brandi Cooper started doing various narcotics in school when she was about 14 years old but about five years ago her addictions spiraled out of control when she became hooked on prescription narcotics and then heroin.

She has since successfully battled back her addiction and for now is living a normal life but the cost to her has been enormous. She faced numerous criminal charges in pursuing her drug habit, went on the run from the law, had to give up her son for someone else to take care of him all while watching herself physically and mentally crumble while she alienated herself from her family.

It all started when she was barely a teenager trying to have a good time, she said.

"It was to party and to escape reality," Cooper, now 25, said.

While she took marijuana, cocaine and Adderall to get high she also sold muscle relaxants to others and eventually got arrested for it. She received treatment for her budding addiction from Walden Sierra for a stint of 21 days.

She thought she was doing all right.

"But as soon as I got out I started using," Cooper said.

"I didn't think it was an issue, I was functional.

"Once you become addicted it's to function."

Cooper is set to tell her story to parents at a drug abuse summit at the Hollywood firehouse Friday that seeks to better educate the community on the affects pills and heroin have had on the county.

She started to find ways to feed her habit including pawning items she said the father of her son had stolen.

While in an abusive relationship, she claimed, prescription narcotics became her escape.

"I wanted something to take the pain away," she said.

"I got hooked on it very quickly."

She soon took to crushing the pills and injecting the drug intravenously.

"I said I'd never be one of these people but I was," Cooper said. "It's everywhere.

"I kept getting mixed up with the wrong people; I wasn't thinking at all."

She racked up a long list of charges in Anne Arundel County, which is where she would go to get heroin, since it was cheaper and more plentiful than pills; she ran away to West Virginia to avoid arrest.

All this time her mother Amie Short was worrying about the strange behavior her daughter started to exhibit but she never wanted to believe that her daughter was taking drugs, though she finally had to face the fact.

"It was hard but I knew whatever she was doing was out of control," Short said. "They lie... the addiction consumes them."

Short said Brandi would constantly call asking for money, telling stories of being hit with bad luck; but Short finally realized something was wrong.

When she cut off the money, Brandi withdrew even more.

Meanwhile Cooper's life spun out of control more rapidly but she found that she was getting addicted to the criminal lifestyle of finding ways to feed her habit just as much as she was hooked on the heroin herself.

Eventually her mother arranged to meet her in a WalMart parking lot in West Virginia where she promptly turned Brandi into the police.

While she was waiting to be extradited to Maryland she had time to think about what her addiction had cost her while she detoxified in jail.

"I'm in a jail cell, my son's not with me and I had nothing but track marks on my arms and terrible guilt," Cooper said. "You're so used to the chaos [of drug addiction] you don't know how to do it any other way; it's just the craziness of it all."

When she finally came back to Maryland she pleaded guilty to two theft charges and eventually made her way into a faith-based recovery program that was heavy on rules, regulations and Bible study and prayer.

She was nervous about going to such a place but when she met the people there she soon realized it was a place where she could learn to find some happiness again.

"It was crazy, everybody was happy to be there," she said of the West Virginia retreat.

But there was scarcely a moment of her time for the next year that wasn't accounted for but the discipline helped her focus and turn her life around.

She credited God with that miracle.

"He restored my mind," she said.

She earned a pass to go home for Christmas and her family thought she looked like a completely different person. She was health and happy, a stark contrast from the gray hue of her skin while she was hooked on heroin.

"God is good and that's who saved her," her mother said.

She graduated from the program last summer, known as the Teen Challenge and was able to get her son back.

She was able to get a job and even enroll in college courses; now she tries to tell her story to help others fight the addiction battle.

"It's crazy how things have flipped 180 degrees since then," Brandi said. "It's such a blessing to be able to do this." guyleonard@countytimes.net

Local

News Residents Reminded of Voluntary Food Recall

The St. Mary’s County Health Department is reminding local businesses and residents of a voluntary food recall for cheeses made at Roos Foods of Kenton, DE. These products have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may also suffer the symptoms of high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. Products were distributed in Maryland, Virginia and Washington D.C. through retail stores.

The products are packaged in flexible plastic bags and rigid plastic clam shell packages in 12 oz. and 16 oz. sizes under the brand names: Mexicana, Amigo, Santa Rosa De Lima, and Anita. The company has ceased the production and distribution of the products during the FDA investigation.

Customers should destroy all lots of the above listed products of the brand names Mexicana, Amigo, Santa Rosa De Lima and Anita. For any refund, please return recalled products to store.

For a complete list of the recalled products, please visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

8

Business News

Ring In and Resolve Winners 3rd Place Opal Fine Art Gallery of the flexibility it affords.

“We’ve installed exhibits with less than two weeks notice,” she says. In addition to their regular exhibits, the gallery participates in Leonardtown’s First Friday themed events whenever they can. Jane remembers how their “Playing with Fire” show theme evolved.

“We had the dance troupe Cinnabar performing a fusion fire dance. They performed with lit candelabras worn on their heads in front of the gallery.”

“We like to host as many cultural evens as our little space can handle,” Cynthia adds. “And sometimes we spill out into the street.”

Another cultural event scheduled is the Annual Senior Student Showcase. On Friday, March 7, senior students from St. Mary’s College are scheduled to showcase their work in the gallery. Opening reception is from 5 p.m. to 7p.m. with student artists on hand throughout the evening to discuss their work.

Cynthia says she and Jane are constantly brainstorming ideas to keep the gallery fresh and exciting. Keeping it fresh

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer Last month, the Leonardtown Business Association sponsored “Ring In and Resolve”, an online campaign where people voted via Facebook for their favorite Leonardtown business. For the next four weeks, each of the winners will be featured in The County Times.

Located at 41625 Park Avenue just off historic Leonardtown Square, Opal Fine Art Gallery and Gifts is a relative newcomer to the square, opening its doors in October 2012. Since then, owners Cynthia Rosenblatt and Jane Rowe have cultivated a loyal following of artists and patrons alike.

Cynthia, a metalsmith and Jane, a painter, met five years ago while both women were showing work in a local gallery. These days, both owners display their own creations alongside those of local and regional artists in Opal Fine Art gallery.

Opal’s intimate space is home to sculpture, fiberwork, metalsmithing, handmade jewelry, stained glass and other media. Despite the small space, Jane is proud

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Owners Jane Rowe (l) and Cynthia Rosenblatt (r) along with the shop’s mascot.

means a monthly rotation of the gallery’s exhibits, but the owners maintain that keeping it fresh isn’t hard. “Southern Maryland is rich with creative people,” Jane adds.

Opal Fine Art gallery is available to lease for artists who prefer a personal exhibition. Other artists who are interested in showing at the gallery can submit their artwork by CD or email. They can also get on the gallery’s artists list and watch for calls for their themed shows.

Cynthia says the friendliness and in-

Photos by Kay Poiro

viting nature of Leonardtown is inspiring.

“We like this area and this space. Leonardtown’s arts and entertainment designation is a boon to the town. It’s exciting to watch it grow,” she says.

Opal Fine Art Gallery is open Thursday- Sunday, 11 a.m. to around 5 p.m.

First Friday hours may vary. For more information about Opal Fine Art, call 301-884-2356. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Chamber Challenge: Vote for Maryland’s Most Small Business Friendly Chamber Maryland Small Business Week Awards Program, Inc. has announced the launch of this year’s Chamber Challenge, to determine the state’s Top 3 Most Small Business Friendly Chambers, as voted by their members in an online poll. Winners will be revealed at the 30th Annual Maryland Small Business Week Awards Luncheon at Martin’s West in Baltimore on Thursday, May 15.

“Each year we recognize and honor the accomplishments of remarkable people who have achieved success as small business owners but who also advocate on behalf of other small business owners and devote a lot of time and effort giving back to their community,” said Bryan LePage, Vice President of the MD Small Business Week Awards Committee.

“In most instances, the nominations are submitted by chambers of commerce. Time and again we’ve been made aware of remarkable men and women who are incredible success stories but also incredible people and we get

these stories from their chambers. We thought it was about time to recognize the great work that chambers of commerce do to support and promote their members.”

The Chamber Challenge is open to all chambers in the state. The public and chamber members are invited to vote for their favorite chamber, once per day for the month of March.

Voting opens March 1st and closes March 31st.

Votes will be tallied and winners will be honored at the Awards Luncheon on May 15th.

The event celebrates the achievements of the small business community and will also recognize the local winners of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) National Small Business Week Awards Program.

To vote for your favorite chamber or to learn more about the 30th Annual MD Small Business Week Awards Luncheon, visit www. mdsbwawards.org. For additional questions, contact Rachel Howard at 410-962-6195, ext.

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The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

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The County Times

Cops & Courts Man Faces Numerous Stalking, Harassment Charges

In one instance police alleged that Bean followed the victim while she was a passenger in another person’s car and tried to run them off A California man continually the road. Bean then allegedly conharassed and stalked his estranged tinued to follow them as they drove girlfriend sheriff’s deputies have alto the sheriff’s office for help and leged, and even had physical altercatried to bar their entry there as well. tions with her leading up to his arBean In another incident police alrest last week.

Cassidy Frank Bean, 30, remains incar- leged that Bean arrived at the victim’s house cerated at the county’s adult detention center. and entered her home while she was there, Criminal investigators allege that Bean demanding that she speak with him.

The victim tried to lock herself in a stalked his estranged girlfriend for months by leaving unwanted text messages and com- bedroom but Bean refused to leave until she ments on social media and even making ver- threatened to call police.

Police said that Bean is on probation for bal threats.

Charging documents against Bean al- similar charges with another victim.

In all Bean faces 11 criminal counts lege that he would often show up at the victim’s home and demand to speak with her, try including stalking, harassment, trespass, to track her movements through her friends second-degree assault and third-degree and family and even said he would harm him- burglary. self and other men if she did not repair her guyleonard@countytimes.net relationship with him.

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Thursday, March 6, 2014

10

SHERIFF’S BLOTTER The following information is compiled directly from publicly released police reports.

On March 4, at 12:14 a.m., Deputy Roszell responded to Abell’s Tavern in Callaway for a reported assault. The victim alleged suspect Lester Marvel Scriber, 41, of Lexington Park, grabbed the victim by the face with his hand and forced a cigarette into the victim’s mouth. Further investigation revealed the victim was the protected party in a final protective order where Scriber is the respondent. Scriber was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 2nd Degree Assault and Violation of a Protective Order.

On Feb. 28, Deputy Fennessy responded to a residence in the 16000 block of Point Lookout Road for a reported assault. The victim alleged suspect Christopher Linn Axtell, 53, of St. Mary’s City, returned home and began assaulting the victim. Aztell struck the victim with his hands and bit the victim. Deputy Fennessey observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim.

Axtell was located and placed under arrest. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with 2nd Degree Assault.

On March 1, Deputy Flerlage responded to a residence on Cherryfield Road in Drayden for reported violation of a protective order. The victim alleged suspect Crystal Marie Moore, 32, of Lexington Park, entered onto the victim’s property and knocked at the door of the residence in violation of an active protective order. Moore was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with Violation a Protective Order.

LAW OFFICE OF

On March 1, Deputy Pleisse responded to a residence in the 25000 block of Three Notch Road in Hollywood for a reported a violation of a protective order. The victim alleged suspect Donald Wade Balch Jr., 25, of Lexington Park, contacted the victim by phone, text message, and emails on several occasions. The investigation revealed the contact was in violation of an active protective order against Balch. Balch was located and placed under arrest by Deputy Pleisse. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Violation of a Protective Order.

LOKER BUILDING

On March 3, Deputy Logue responded to a residence on Jones Road in Mechanicsville for a reported domestic assault. The victim alleged suspect Olga Marie Hall, 37, of Mechanicsville, struck the victim in the face with a piece of wood during an argument. Deputy Logue observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim’s face. Hall was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with 2nd Degree Assault.

DANIEL A. M. SLADE, L.L.C.

On March 2, Corporal E. Johnson responded to a residence on Parson’s Mill Road in Loveville, for a reported disturbance. The victim alleged suspect Jerome Anthony Hicks, 45, of Loveville, threw the victim onto a couch and strangled the victim during an argument. Corporal Johnson observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim. Hicks was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 2nd Degree Assault.

On March 3, Deputy Tirpak responded to a residence in Lexington Park for a domestic assault. The victim alleged suspect David Andrew Hubbs, 42, of Lexington Park, struck the victim in the head with a metal trashcan during an argument. The victim had visible signs of injury. Hubbs was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 2nd Degree Assault.

Traffic Enforcement Operation Great Mills Road

41650 COURT HOUSE DRIVE, SUITE 301 • P.O. BOX 288 LEONARDTOWN, MARYLAND 20650

PHONE: 301-475-5150 • FAX: 301-475-6909

On Feb. 21 between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., 6 deputies conducted a comprehensive traffic enforcement operation along the length of Great Mills Road. The operation was funded by the Maryland Highway Safety grant.

Deputies conducted 84 traffic stops, which resulted in 38 written citations, 68 written warnings, 1 safety equipment repair order issued, and 1 drug arrest.

11

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

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The County Times

Letters to the

Editor

Letter to Mrs. Reno

I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy “A Journey Through Time, The Times Chronicle”. It is the first thing I look for when getting the County Times Paper. Please keep up the good work.

Danny Fluhart President, Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Society, Inc.

LEGAL NOTICES IN THE MATTER OF Ruth Anne Lowney FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO Anne Graham Lowney In the Circuit Court for St. Mary’s County, Maryland Case No.: 18-C-14-000242 The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which she seeks to change her name from Ruth Anne Lowney to Anne Graham Lowney. The petitioner is seeking a name change for the following reason: I have used the name Anne not Ruth for most of my life.

Any person may file an objection to the Petition on or before the 1st day of April, 2014. The objection must be supported by an affidavit and served upon the Petitioner in accordance with Maryland Rule 1-321. Failure to file an objection or affidavit within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought.

A copy of this Notice shall be published one time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to file an objection.

JOAN W. WILLIAMS, Clerk of the Circuit Court for St. Mary’s County Maryland

3/6/2014

Under the State of Maryland Annotated Code Section 16-201 for repairs, storage and other lawful charges, Coltons Point Marina will sell at public auction on March 21, 2014, at 10:00am at 38000 Kopels Road, Coltons Point, MD 20626, the following vessels in satisfaction of a mechanics lien for charges that have remained unpaid for more than 30 days. Terms: cash or certified funds.

Lienor reserves the right to bid. You have the right to satisfy the mechanics lien debt in full before the auction date by contacting Coltons Point Marina at (301)769-3121.

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3/6/2014

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

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Major Church Shakeup Recently, Secretary Of State, John Kerry, made a number of comments regarding man-made global warming/climate change. The most outlandish and absurd of which was his personal opinion that such has now become perhaps the greatest threat of terrorism facing us today.

Kerry, an outspoken member in apparent good standing of the 1st Confused Church of Mother Earth Worshiping Fools, might be of an ulterior motive.

Possibly, he’s maneuvering a hostile takeover of its coveted position as general overseer. If so, you best believe the current heavyweight, very Rev Algore, won’t go down without swinging. Leastways, not till he’s circled the globe another time or two in his elegant aircraft, consumed a peck more jelly donuts and further fluffed up his church coffers with taxpayer exacted love-offerings. Already wealthy, perhaps Kerry’s sincerely zealous of the church’s mission and is animated pondering the positively embellished exposure their media partners afford such exalted position.

The flourishing church thrives by stunning unfocused Americans with quotes and numbers via purported scientific experts and intellectual giants, i.e., glamorous Hollywood elitists and wealthy Democrat politicians, primarily. Their highly acclaimed concerted message is that of dire consequences and forecasted doom and gloom if we don’t stop this and start that, and now. Flush with cash and in concert with their media counterparts, elders of the darling church dismiss unbelieving nay-sayers tagging such as witless flat Earthers. When in reality, those employing common sense merely opt to comfortably rely upon the creator, God, as they reason with the cyclical explanation authored by highly educated scientists of opposing rationale.

The Devil uses his modern church’s smokescreen of purported man-made global warming/climate change to occupy men’s thoughts via trumpeting the awful woes advanced civilization has heaped on Mother Earth. She’s hurt, they cry, by our continued utilization of natural resources of coal, oil and natural gas, wondrously placed below Earth’s surface by the creator, God, for our sustenance. However, Satan’s primary goal lies in obscuring man’s God consciousness by any means available, seeking to void him of any notion of personal accountability. And such is nicely done on one front via feel good Earth works.

Meanwhile, his church pillars condemn and consistently disparage efforts at promoting energy independence for America. In their grief, to heal our imagined fever laden planet, they push alternative means which cannot even at present meet our growing energy demands. In the meantime, we remain content with spiraling costs and minimal efforts at securing more of what we know works well. And as we do so, their notables continue to prosper at the expense of our poor and middle class.

No doubt satisfied our fundamental transformation is well underway, of further importance to the master deceiver is the continued grinding down of America. He distracts Americans from our planned military cuts, the healthcare debacle, societal and

spiritual ills, failing economic and educational indicators and our bloated national debt. And he successfully does so via summonsing big time celebrities, talking heads and liberal politicians to suppress critical news events with warnings of a scorching world headed for destruction at our own dirty hands. Thus, among far too many of us, heralding America’s idol supplants alerting oneself to our nation’s downturn, to our idolatry and to our weakened global influence.

Unfortunately, our deluded ones cannot grasp the first four words of the Holy Bible, “In the beginning God”. To them, anyone so unenlightened as to really believe “created the Heaven and the Earth” rings to their sensitive and offended ears as right wing religious extremism. Hence, their continual loud and repeated cries of separation of church from state.

However, they’ll continue lobbying frantically for more government intervention and grants of taxpayer exacted love offerings for their presumed Constitutionally sanctioned Mother Earth Church flock. How did all this happen? How did once noble efforts encompassing recycling, clearing the air and the prosecuting of those polluting our waterways evolve into such maniacal madness with an altogether misplaced and empty, yet ultra religious theme and fervor?

While the Mother Earth Worshiping Church fallacy is new to modern man it’s nothing new to the loving and merciful Word made flesh who dwelt among us. Sun worship was also once devilishly inspired and foolish men then as now preferred honoring the created rather than the creator; Ezekiel 8:16, Holy Bible. In that God Almighty created this Earth he can and will sustain it till such time as he determines otherwise; Malachi 4, II Peter 3. Most sobering, however, is the edict “The fool hath said in his heart, there is no God”; Psalm 14:1.

Most of us will say God exists but reserve that he may not be able to care for his creation, else, why the need for man’s vain intervention on his behalf and on his property. That said, all weather is an act of God whether within his perfect will or permissive will.

It’s that simple.

Now, forget the major church shakeup. Take it all with a grain of salt and dismiss notions of one man increasing as the other decreases. Our esteemed Secretary of State has grave matters before him at this moment. He must remain entirely focused on Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine. Concurrently, he must also call for a cessation to menacing demands of Israel to divide its capitol, Jerusalem. There are multiple other threatening situations before our Secretary of State and may God bless him in his faithful minding of America’s affairs. His successful intervention will surely reflect America’s intents, her interests and her trustworthiness to her allies. The eyes of freedom loving peoples everywhere are indeed upon our United States of America.

And, dear Lord, please break our global warming/climate change streak of Winter 2014.

James Manning McKay - Founder

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www.countytimes.net

Chester Seaborn Mechanicsville, Md.

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12

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Linda Reno Doug Watson

13

Thursday, March 6, 2014

The County Times

Letters to the

Editor These Women Are Not Murderers, They Are Having A Perfectly Legal Medical Procedure In response to Robert Boudreaux’s letter in the Feb. 27 issue of the County Times “Is Saving Black Babies Lives Racism?” I would have to answer “Yes”. His original letter was directed at only Black babies, so it would seem those are the only abortions with which he is concerned. Treating the whole abortion issue as a conspiracy against the Black community is racism to me since it was obvious from his letter’s omissions that he was unconcerned about any other abortions.

He seems to question how women are counseled regarding abortions. I wrote that they are counseled about all their options and not focused on “promoting abortion.” He talks about the “Reports I read” to support his position but I have contributed to the Planned Parenthood organization for many years, have read their literature, and toured their facilities. The normal procedure is to have several counseling sessions with a woman over at least a two-week period so that she can feel comfortable with whatever decision she makes. As I pointed out and he purposefully ignored, there are many reasons a woman may choose to have an abortion not the least of which are rape, incest, or the potential death of the woman herself. In all his talk of how women are “murdering” their unborn children he fails to address the issue of the woman forced to go nine months to give birth to a child and thus knowingly being killed herself in

the process. This would result in the unnecessary death of the mother, the direct loss to her family and possibly yet another child lost in the social services system. Every adult should have the right to pursue their own happiness and the opportunity to legally obtain high-quality medical treatment. These women are not murderers, they are having a perfectly legal medical procedure.

Although noticeably absent in his earlier letter, his latest contribution now begins to bang the Bible to support his views as the ultimate source of all knowledge. That’s fine if religion was his original argument but, if so, why did he fail to mention it? His original letter was, in one respect, seemingly well focused. By that I mean he dealt with his points on a strictly political/legal basis. As he may know from junior high school, this country has a policy of separation of church and state. We do not, thankfully, take our laws from religion. As we can see from many examples in the Muslim world, such a practice would eliminate many of the freedoms upon which this country was founded. In my humble opinion it would be ridiculous since Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, Protestants, Jews, Moslems, Mormons, and Seventh Day Adventists all profess to believe in basically the same traditions yet, despite the “love thy neighbor” code, have trouble tolerating each other let alone agreeing

Equating Abortion to Slavery is Absolutely Unfounded And Ludicrous The two editorials written by Robert Boudreaux equating abortion to slavery are absolutely unfounded and ludicrous. First, it should be noted that since 1973 abortion rates have been declining sharply and this year they are projected to be the lowest since record keeping began. Mr. Boudreaux cites the high abortion rate among black women however he fails to mention the higher abortion rate of what the Census calls Non-Hispanic white women, who account for 36% of all abortions which is worth noting.

In his second letter, Mr. Boudreaux claims he is unaware of any laws that exist which require women to seek counseling before an abortion can be performed. In fact, 27 states require a waiting period ranging from 18 to 72 hours before an abortion can take place, and of that group 10 states require women to make two trips for counseling.

Virginia belongs to both of these groups, Maryland to neither.

Mr. Boudreaux also postulates that Democrats are the harbinger of death in that they are constantly pushing pro-choice rights and they can do so because they are voted into office by black women or “enablers” as he calls them. While more than half of the Democratic Party does support abortion rights, there also exists a small group of Republicans, 26% according to Gallup Polls, who are also pro-choice; it seems that prochoice support exists across the aisle.

In both 2008 and 2012 when Barack Obama was elected, news sources devoted hours of coverage to the fact that he had a significant lead in minority groups. Perhaps this is because historically Republicans have sought to cut or “reorganize” poverty geared programs like food stamps, welfare and

on anything. As long as we keep that separation of laws and religion I feel we will all be better off. He is entitled to his opinion but not to force his opinions on others.

I can understand why Mr. Boudreaux feels as he does but, ultimately, the abortion law is a medical issue which was addressed at the political level to protect women who needed/wanted freedom from an abortion performed by unprofessional back-alley practitioners who claimed the lives of far too many women. Ranting and raving about the Bible is not what he should be doing, he should be campaigning for political candidates that support his position.

That should be fairly easy since both parties have become so polarized that a thinking individual dare not identify themselves with either one. George Washington felt that the greatest internal threat to this country was the formation of political parties and, looking at our two “shining examples”, I have to agree with him. While I generally support a smaller, fiscally balanced government (Republican), I also support abortion rights and legalization of Marijuana (Democrat). As Mr. Boudreaux has trouble finding support for his conspiracy theories, I have trouble finding a politician that I can fully embrace.

Glenn Weder Hollywood, Md.

What is the Real Result of Raising Minimum Wage?

unemployment benefits. And with 26% of blacks living below poverty level, the second highest amount in the nation, it is no wonder that these individuals may look more favorably towards a party that does not attempt to fix a broken system without an actual solution. This is why up and coming Republican leaders such as Marco Rubio, Chris Christie, Paul Ryan and Rand Paul have all spoken about the need for their party to come back from the far right and establish a new midline that will allow for a broader voting base to lead them to victory.

Finally, with Roe v. Wade the Supreme Court found abortion discrimination unconstitutional because it would violate the 14th Amendment by “abridging the privileges or immunities of citizens”, one of which could be considered to be the free exercise of religion, or lack thereof. The Bible is purported to be the word of God however we have no hard facts or evidence that God visited those who supposedly authored the Bible other than the stories contained within its pages.

As with any text the Bible is open to interpretation and may therefore be assigned different meanings. For anyone who does not choose to believe this is a sacred work that is the word of the Lord it cannot and should not be used to thrust upon the population regulations based upon laws it is believed to hold.

Equating abortion to slavery, which is considered one of the bleakest abominations that the human race ever exercised upon itself is abhorrent. This is a clear example of radical extremism from which our politics and country deserve much needed distance.

Hiking the minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 per hour is the hot topic today. I’ve listened to the pros and cons but I haven’t heard anyone come up with the real result of raising the minimum wage. The macroeconomic conservative people talk about the loss of 500,000 jobs if the minimum wage is raised while the liberals swear that won’t happen and even if it does it will be a good thing.

Let’s have a reality check. Let’s talk about what happens with Mike and John. They both work for a small company. John just started working at the company and, as a beginner, is paid $7.25 per hour. John has worked for the company several years. He also received $7.25 when he started, but over the years he had pay raises and now earns $10.00 per hour.

At this time a new federal minimum wage rate goes into effect. Both Mike and John now earn $10.10 per hour. Mike is still so new at the job he has a hard time finding the restroom while over the years John has built up his skills and can operate several types of complex machines. Mike just received a raise of $2.75 while John received a whole DIME! What does any reasonable, rational person think will happen in this case?

If I were John and If this happened to me I would be knocking on the boss’s door asking for a raise. I think this would happen across all industries.

A second unintentional consequence is inflation which nobody wants to mention. When employers are forced to pay higher wages for the same amount of work, they have four options: first, they can pay but must take the extra cost out of their profit margin. In today’s economy, most employers are working on extremely thin profit margins and couldn’t afford this choice. Second, they could lay off workers. Again, most employers have already cut back on their number of employees as a result of both the economy and the advent of Obamacare. So let’s scratch this option. Third, they can raise the prices of the products they sell. This is the option most employers will select and what do they call it when what you buy costs more and the dollar loses value…that’s right. INFLATION! However, there is one more option open to an employer.

It’s called closing up shop – or going out of business – or giving up.

Is this what we want and why aren’t the people told about Mike and John rather than being fed a bunch of statistics and high flown phrases that the average worker doesn’t understand and simply tunes out?

Brandon Russell Leonardtown, Md.

James H. Hilbert Mechanicsville, Md.

The County Times

Political Newcomers Enter Board of Ed Race

by Kay Poiro Staff Writer This June, four political outsiders vie for open seats on the St. Mary’s County Board of Education.

Rita Weaver, a Navy veteran and emergency room nurse and Randy Darnowski, a systems engineer at NAS Pax River will run against John “Alonzo” Gaskin for the District 1 seat vacated by Dr. Salvatore Raspa, who announced his decision to retire at the end of his term.

Stay-at-home mom Karin Bailey has filed for the District 3 seat against incumbent Brooke Matthews.

District 1 hopeful Weaver says her experience as a parent, as well as an educator adds to her qualifications. As she sees first-hand the products of St. Mary’s County Public Schools.

“As a board member, I could identify gaps in the system before the students graduate.”

Weaver says she’s also noticed how many Board of Education decisions are not adequately challenged.

“Board members almost always seem to be in agreement with each other. I hear very little constructive criticism to stimulate any open and honest communication. That communication is how we produce fresh ideas.”

“After attending board meetings for over a year, I felt the need to become involved in the education decisions being made,” she says.

Her opponent Randy Darnowski is a 26 year old Georgia native who says a devotion to tutoring and mentoring youth is his primary reason for seeking office. He supports equal educational resources across the county and explains that he doesn’t believe in giving up on students.

“A student may not have the grades, but given exposure to mentoring and other programs, I know they can excel.”

He says as the youngest candidate, he’s also able to relate to students as a role model and encourages other professionals who have made St. Mary’s County their home to get involved and give back to their community.

Darnowski mentions his independent perspective as one of his greatest assets.

“I’m not aligned with any political party or local organization,” he explains. “There’s no ‘you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours’. I’m just running for the betterment of St. Mary’s County students.”

Bailey, a stay-at-home mom from Mechanicsville, is running for District 3 seat. She says an experience two years ago helped make up her mind about running for the Board of Education.

“For years, there was a proposal for a park and ride on a piece of property adjacent to Lettie Marshall Dent,” she says. Both of her children attend the school. “The last time the proposal came through was about two years ago. I voiced my concerns along with other community members and the proposal was eventually shelved.

CSM Board of Trustees Considers Student Opportunities

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer The College of Southern Maryland Board of Trustees focused on future opportunities for the college and students alike during their Feb. 27 meeting.

Enrollment in community colleges has been slowly increasing in the past few years, and enrollment at the College of Southern Maryland is no exception, according to a report given by CSM Vice President of Financial and Administrative Services Tony R. Jernigan.

There is an ongoing battle to draw students back from community colleges and back to four-year institutions, said CSM President Bradley Gottfried, but for nurs-

Photo by Sarah Miller Brad Gotfried and Mike Middleton consider the possibilities for CSM

Rita Weaver

ing students in Southern Maryland, that struggle may soon be a non-issue. CSM is currently in negotiations with the University of Maryland to offer a duel-enrollment program allowing students to get their associates from the College of Southern Maryland and their bachelors in nursing from the University of Maryland while only attending classes at CSM, Gottfried said.

There is a possibility the program would allow students to earn a four-year degree in three years, and nurses who already have an associates in nursing would be able to benefit from the program, Gottfried said. If all goes according to plan, the partnership with the University of Maryland could be in place by Fall 2014.

In other news during the Board of Trustees meeting, the CSM Foundation has raised 49 percent of their $707,000 fundraising goal, according to Board of Trustees Liaison Ted Harwood.

The mission of the CSM Foundation is to “promote academic excellence, growth, progress, and the general welfare of the College of Southern Maryland–by raising and managing philanthropic funds and providing support to strengthen and develop the college and its goals.”

For more information about upcoming opportunities at CSM, visit www.csm.edu. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Photo by Kay Poiro

Education

Photo courtesy of Rita Weaver

14 Photo Courtesy of Karin Bailey

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Randy Darnowski

Karin Bailey

“That was my first experience witnessing how just a few people could make a difference.”

Baily is currently the PTA Treasurer for Lettie Marshall Dent Elementary school and a longtime school volunteer. Prior to that, she worked in internal audits in the D.C. metro area.

She feels strongly about expanding elementary school programs, saying that tapping into a student’s passion for learning early is key to creating lifelong learners.

“Regardless of the school, students should still have the same opportunities. Dynard, Lexington Park… seeing what happened in our school, with FLES (Foreign Language in Elementary Schools) you have to believe that same excitement would be repeated across the county.”

When it comes to parent access to administration, Karin says the process needs to be more defined and better established. She also notes that with her background in internal audit, finance and accounting, she could help parents make sense of the budget.

“There’s a general disconnect between the decision makers and the parents,” she says.

Election primaries will be held on June 24. The top candidates will move on to the general election in November. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Academy of Visual and Performing Arts Accepting Applications This Spring

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer St. Mary’s County Public School’s Academy of Visual and Performing Arts is scheduled to begin accepting applications this week. Supervisor of Instruction for Fine Arts Laurel Dietz says that response to the academy has been excellent so far.

“We formally presented the academy at the Leonardtown and Chopticon High School’s rising freshman orientation,” she says, noting that every one of the four sessions were “standing room only.”

The academy is staggering enrollment with 50 freshmen accepted into the 20142015 class and 50 students per class for the three years. Although target enrolment is 200, Dietz stresses that the academy won’t automatically turn away students simply because enrollment has reached the predetermined cap.

Applications will be accepted this March and follow the same process as the other pathways. Performing arts will have an added audition component. Visual arts applicants will need to provide a portfolio. Applicants for both tracks will have a personal interview.

Performing arts auditions are scheduled for May 3 and will take place before a panel of teachers, school leadership and community members.

Dietz says the panel will carefully consider the student as a whole during the process. “That is why the audition and interview are so important,” she explains. “They give us an idea of what is beyond the page.”

The Academy of Performing and Visual Arts doesn’t detract from the fine arts programs in our high schools, says Dietz.

“Our existing high school fine arts programs are comprehensive,” she explains.

“The academy goes above and beyond what are already highly successful programs.”

The Academy of Visual and Performing Arts is a new academic pathway for St. Mary’s County Public Schools in the 2014-2015 school year.

For more information about the Academy of Visual and Performing Arts, visit www.smcps.org/academies. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

15

Thursday, March 6, 2014

The County Times

Four-Year Degrees May Soon Come to Community Colleges

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer Students may soon be able to earn a four-year degree at community colleges.

House bill (HB) 531, sponsored by Delegate Mark Fisher (R-27B), would authorize specified community colleges in the State to offer specified bachelor’s degree programs and award bachelor’s degrees.

College of Southern Maryland (CSM) President Bradley M. Gottfried supports the bill to an extent. The way the bill is written right now, he worries it could make baccalaureate institutions out of traditional community colleges.

“We don’t want to give up our community college roots,” Gottfried said.

Fisher said that is not the goal of the bill, saying the bill makes college education more accessible and more financially feasible.”

The affordability of community colleges, combined with the convenience of taking classes close to home and CSM’s “fantastic physical plant” means HB 531 facilitates an opportunity for more individuals in Southern Maryland, and state wide, an opportunity to earn a four year degree, Fisher said.

Gottfried testified about the bill before the Ways and Means Committee on Feb. 21.

“Southern Maryland has been the fastest growing region of the state for the past two decades, yet it does not contain a comprehensive four-year college. We do have St. Mary’s College of Maryland, but it is a liberal arts, honors college that is of little interest to most of

our students. Classes are also offered at our two higher education centers, but most of our traditional aged students want a full college experience and they do not avail themselves of these opportunities. Yes, they could also take online classes, but again, most traditional aged students want a full college experience that is lacking online,” Gottfried said in his testimony.

Access is only part of the issue. Finances are another challenge students face. A recent survey by Sallie Mae showed that 70 percent of students graduating with a baccalaureate degree had a loan, Gottfried said.

Students graduate from four-year institutions with an average debt amount of over $29,000. This number has been going up six percent every year. This means at least $500 coming out of every paycheck for many years. At CSM, less than nine percent of students took out a loan to pay for college, Gottfried said.

In addition to the cost of the four-year degree, students from Southern Maryland either have to live on campus or commute out of the region daily, which compounds the cost of attaining their degree.

HB 531 has the potential to help individuals statewide, Gottfried said, and while it not perfect he urged the Ways and Means committee to move ahead with the bill.

“This bill has the right bones. I urge you to consider it and if you are not able to move it forward, at least send it to summer study. I believe that you owe it to your constituents and to the future generations of Maryland,” Gottfried said in his testimony. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Education

Snow Resets Testing Window for Maryland School Assessment MSDE Adjusts Testing Window After Monday’s Snow; PARCC Field Test Window Unaffected The Maryland State Department of Education has adjusted the testing window for the Maryland School Assessment (MSA), following yet another snow storm.

The testing window for the MSA reading and mathematics testing for the paper assessment began March 3, and was to end March 12. It has now been extended to March 14, with the make-up window being March 17 to 18.

Maryland schools give the MSA tests over four days – two for mathematics and two for reading. Local school systems determine the exact testing days to be used for their schools.

Grades 5 and 7 online testing remains unchanged, running from March 3 to March 21.

Both the MSA science test and the PARCC field test will begin March 24, as scheduled, and will close on April 11.

The MSA is given to students in grades 3-8, covering mathematics and reading. This is the final year for MSA testing for Maryland students. The State will transition to the PARCC assessment, aligned to Maryland’s College and Career-Ready Standards, in 2015.

Feature Story

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

16

Taylor Gas Company Works to Meet this Year’s Heating Demand

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer Family owned Taylor Gas Company has faced supply and demand issues and a variable economy using a tried and true method – providing excellent customer service and remaining engaged in the community.

Taylor Gas President Frank, Vice President Bernard and Assistant Vice President Scott Taylor represent two of the three generations of Taylors who have been in the gas business, running Taylor Gas Company since Feb. 1, 1950.

Taylor Gas, founded by Francis and Loretta Taylor, has been providing the Southern Maryland with a local gas resource.

Taylor Gas currently provides propane energy solutions for residential, commercial and farmland installations as well as provides excellent and personable service with an in-depth knowledge of all things propane.

“We’re like Hank Hill [of television show “King of the Hill”],” Bernard said. “We sell propone and propane accessories.”

Francis and Loretta were the first generation in the gas business. Their six children, including Frank and Bernard, were the second generation. Frank’s son, Scott, is the third generation and, after having gone on a service call with her father on a call recently, Scott’s three-year-old daughter Olivia may be in training to be the fourth generation of Taylors in the gas business.

All six Taylor siblings worked for the family business at one point or another growing up, Frank said. Bernard remembered working there part time while earning his Bachelors degree in economy and political science from St. Mary’s College of Maryland, making him one of the few students with some money in his pocket.

Scott started out going to work with Frank on Saturdays.

Eventually, he began going out to assist on service runs and painting tanks, which were silver at the time.

“I would come home looking like the Tin Man,” Scott said.

The company, while thriving, has not grown without challenges, Frank said. Taylor Gas was started in the post-World War II era, just as cooking with gas ranges instead of wood burning stoves was becoming popular and before anyone knew what the permanent impact of the new base, now Naval Air Station Patuxent River, would be. People were moving out of the area, heading to Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington, D.C. in search of more opportunities.

Francis purchased his first tanks from H. Gordon Trueman in St. Leonard when he made the decision to go into business for himself after having worked as a technician for a company that sold propane gas.

Taylor Gas Company’s first customers were family members, and they grew by word of mouth as demand for propane and other gasses increased with the popularity of gas furnaces, starting in the mid-1980s, along with other residential uses. Even now, residential customers remain the largest number of Taylor Gas customers, Frank said. Other customers include restaurants and commercial operations.

This winter has proven to be another challenge for Taylor Gas, Frank said. The challenge has come from the cold winter, which increases demand for gas, and gas delivery disruptions, which can make it difficult to fill demand.

This winter’s issues actually began a few years ago. The country has seen a string of mild winters and, while the industry tries to ensure there is a supply on hand for domestic need, there has been a growing demand for exports. The United States has moved from being an importer of gasses to an exporter, Frank said. Natural Gas Liquids such as propane, butane and propylene gasses have become valuable overseas, Frank said, and the industry was lulled into believing a 65 million barrel supply (there are 42 gallons to the barrel) of propane would be enough to meet this winter’s needs, being equal to the five year average.

The demand for heating oil has been much higher than anticipated, a problem compounded by the fact that domestic suppliers have been competing with exporters for the infrastructure – trucks, trains and pipelines – to get the supply to where the demand is. Despite the high demand, more than 12 million gallons are exported every month, Frank said.

“It’s capitalism at its best.”

Photos courtesy of Scott Taylor

The weather itself has been a factor as well, Scott said.

Even when suppliers get the needed transportation to get product to local distributors, such as Taylor Gas, ice and snow has held up deliveries.

The inadequate supply has left it up to local distributors to manage their available merchandise. They have done this by partially filling tanks and making reserves spread as much as possible, Frank said, adding that not once has a customer called needing propane and been told there is none to be had.

“We’ve done a pretty fair job of keeping up,” Frank said.

What’s the secret of success? How do you keep a family owned business thriving for 64 years?

According to Frank, “you’ve got to have a good product and provide good service.”

Another ingredient is a hard work ethic instilled in the family by Loretta and Francis. Loretta still visits the business regularly, even after Francis passed away in 2009, Frank said.

“When you have issues or problems, you can come talk to Bernard, left, Frank and Scott Taylor represent two of the three a Taylor,” Bernard said. generations of Taylors who have been in the gas business, running Taylor Complimenting the continued family involvement is a Gas Co. for the past 64 years. The business has faced supply and demand dedicated support staff, Frank said. Taylor Gas employs 20 indi- issues and a variable economy using a tried and true method – providing viduals who work in the Lexington Park office and excellent customer service and remaining engaged in the community. drive the seven delivery trucks, two flat beds and four service trucks that make up the fleet.

Taylor Gas is heavily involved in the community, having purchased banners for every truck during the 100 Years of Naval Aviation Celebration.

They participate in the Pride in the Park Parade in Lexington Park every year. Frank currently serves on the Calvert Marine Museum Board of Directors and has serves on the MetCom board and the St. Mary’s County Planning Commission, among other boards.

Moving forward, Frank said there is a growing interest in using propane as a motor fuel, especially by trucking fleets and commercial businesses.

For more information, visit www.taylorgascompany.com or call 301-862-1000. The Taylor Gas Company headquarters is located at 1541 Great Mills Road in Lexington Park. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

17

Thursday, March 6, 2014

The County Times

PUBLIC WORKSHOP # 2: SOUTHERN MARYLAND

Public Workshop on Land Use Study around NAS Patuxent River The public is invited to participate in an interactive workshop in support of developing the Joint Land Use Study (JLUS).

The JLUS is a cooperative planning effort between Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS PAX) and communities in the region. The objective of the study is to develop a set of recommendations that will promote well-suited compatibility growth and economic development compatible with military training and operations being conducted by NAS PAX. The purpose of the second public workshop is to provide an update on the JLUS project, present the NAS PAX military mission footprint, and to obtain input from the public on prioritizing the compatibility issues, such as, land use, noise, frequency interference, aircraft safety zones, vertical obstructions, and interagency coordination.

The second set of workshops will be held throughout the region in four different locations, and each workshop will be tailored to the specific location it is being conducted in.

The Southern Maryland region workshop will be held for St. Mary’s County, Charles County, and Calvert County on: Date: Time: Location:

March 27, 2014 - Thursday 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Southern Maryland Higher Education Center 44219 Airport Road California, MD 20619

The public is encouraged to attend this workshop. It is critical to obtain input from the community in order to develop a plan that is responsive to local needs. Please join us to hear about the JLUS and provide your input on local land use issues relevant to the JLUS. For more information, visit the project’s website at: or contact: Phone: E-mail:

www.paxjlus.com George Clark, CCTM, MWD-BS Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland 301.274.1922 gclark@tccsmd.org

The County Times

Obituaries Lydia Wanda Rauch Norris, 101 Lydia Wanda Rauch Norris (Age 101) died on Sunday, Feb. 23 at Shady Grove Nursing and Rehab in Rockville, Md. Lydia was born on Jan. 13, 1913, in Buffalo, New York. Her parents, Daniel Rauch (deceased) and Natalie Girsch Rauch (deceased) had immigrated to the United States from Germany in their early teens. In the early 1920’s the Rauch family moved to Mechanicsville, Md. They farmed there. Lydia had three siblings, her sister, Tillie Roach(deceased) and two brothers, Daniel and Willie (deceased). At the age of 16 Lydia ventured out on her own and settled in Leonardtown, Md., where she worked as a switchboard operator. It was there that she met John “Buck” Norris. At age 20, they married. Over the years they worked at many jobs and Lydia frequently delivered newspapers with her baby son, Jack, in a basket on the front seat. In 1938 they bought three acres of land on Bock Road in Oxon Hill, Md., and built a home.

Thursday, March 6, 2014

18

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.

Lydia was the seamstress for the neighborhood and her family. Buck and Lydia had two children, a son, John (Jack)(deceased) , and a daughter, Sharon. Buck passed away at age 62 and Lydia never remarried. Over the years, Buck and Lydia were active in the community. They helped found the Allentown Road Volunteer Fire Department and served as officers in that organization for many years. Lydia also worked on various charity functions for the Lady Lions and Lady Elks. Lydia was one of the founding members of the Oxon Hill Lutheran Church and attended services regularly until she was confined to a wheel chair. Lydia broke her hip and moved to the Shady Grove Center in 2000. She was a very social resident and visited her friends and staff throughout the nursing home. While able, she would take long walks using her wheelchair as a walker so she could sit down when she became tired. Lydia has two grandsons, (Sharon’s sons) Jon Berns and Josh Bernstein. Jon married Sophia Pantazes and Lydia has three great-grandchildren, Nikolas “Niko”, Kostantinos “Kosta”, and Theklitsa “Litsa” Berns.

Lydia was the beloved wife of the late John “Buck” Norris; mother of Sharon Norris and the late John “Jack” Norris; sister of the late Tillie Roach, Daniel and Willie Rauch; grandmother of Jon and Josh; greatgrandmother of Nikolas “Niko”, Kostantinos “Kosta” and Theklitsa “Litsa” Berns. A Memorial Service and interment will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Montgomery Hospice Foundation, 1355 Piccard Drive, Suite 100, Rockville, Md. 20850

Florine Agnes (Thomas) Plater, 96 Florine Agnes (Thomas) Plater, born to Louis and Mary (Marshall) Thomas on Aug. 16, 1917, passed away on Feb. 28 at the age of 96, at the Hospice House of St. Mary’s in Callaway, Md.

Family and friends will unite on Thursday, March 6 for visitation at 10 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 28297 Old Village Road, Mechanicsville, Md. Interment to follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery, Helen, Md. Arrangements

by Briscoe-Tonic Funeral Home, Mechanicsville, Md.

James Walter (Jimmy) Dent, 67 James Walter (Jimmy) Dent, 67 of Maddox, Md., passed away on Feb. 25. Family and friends will unite for viewing and visitation on Friday, March 7 at 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. at Briscoe Tonic Funeral Home, 2294 Old Washington Road, Waldorf, Md. Interment will be private.

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19

Thursday, March 6, 2014

The County Times

AT

Who is Responsible for Repairs During a Home Sale?

Many questions arise during the homebuying process. Buyers looking at homes that require a good deal of TLC may wonder who is responsible for the home’s repairs, particularly if such repairs are needed to secure a certificate of occupancy.

Depending on the situation, there is no clearcut answer.

There is no perfect home, and things that are acceptable to the current owner may not be acceptable to the buyer who is looking to become the next owner. The home-buying process is typically a Home buyers may be able to negotiate that sellers repair major structural careful cooperation be- issues, such as a leaky roof. If not, negotiate a lower sale price. tween buyer and seller cannot afford to pay their mortgage, and to find a middle ground. The buyer may thusly, are not able to afford repairs. Achave to make some concessions, as will the cording to Think Glink, a money-manageseller. Ultimately, it is this cooperation that ment Web site, buyers may try to negotiate often determines if the sale goes through repairs with the seller, but they shouldn’t or is terminated. assume that sellers (or lenders in the event Before any negotiations can begin re- of a bank-owned home) are responsible for garding repairs, it is adviseable for a buyer the repairs. Generally speaking, most short to have an independent inspector come sales and foreclosures are sold “as is” and out and look over the home and property. may even specify that repairs and requireMost real estate agents will suggest this be ments for the certificate of occupancy are done as a first priority -- even before a con- the buyer’s responsibility. A buyer also can tract is entered on the home. An inspec- ask to have the home price reduced to covtion will unveil any potential problems in er the repairs. But foreclosures are often a home and indicate things that the buyer already deeply discounted. may not be aware of, including items that Buyers should know that, for a home do not meet with code or could be unsafe. that is not in foreclosure, there are some reAn inspector also may point out problems pairs that should ultimately be the responthat could cause a mortgage lender to give sibility of the seller. If these repairs are not pause. This may mean the lender will made, a buyer should think strongly about deem problems unsafe and refuse to fund walking away from the deal, according to the mortgage until repairs are made.

Why6Percent.com, a real estate marketing A copy of this inspection report site. Such repairs include: should be sent to the home seller to review • lender-required repairs that could impact with his or her attorney and real estate home safety agent. The buyer working with his own • leaky pipes real estate attorney and agent can petition • water penetration issues, including a bad for certain repairs to be made. Many sell- roof ers will make such repairs to ensure the • unsafe decking or handrails purchase goes through, or they will accept • wet basements or crawl spaces a lower purchase price to compensate for • insecure foundations or obvious structhe needed repairs, which the buyer will tural damage then make. Buyers might want to hire a • poorly functioning sewer lines or septic good real estate attorney to write clauses system into the contract to protect their interests.

It is always adviseable for buyers to This allows the buyer to forfeit the sale and speak with a reliable real estate attorney walk away from the contract should an is- and a trusted real estate agent to guide sue arise. them through the process of buying a The rules often change when buying a home. These people can help buyers navihome that is a short sale or in foreclosure. gate the important decisions that can affect A home that is in distress is typically in the home they’ll be living in for the next this situation because the current owners several years.

Presenting the professionals' favorite properties on the market.

Featured Homes of the Week

Realtor’s Choice

GREEN'S REST FARM LOTS: 1. SM7914542, 3.46 ACRES, $ 149,800 2. SM7914534, 1.96 ACRES, $ 144,200 3. SM7914568, 1.57 ACRES, $ 136,900 4. SM7914578, 1.72 ACRES, $ 126,800 5. SM7914582, 1.59 ACRES, $ 124,900

Gloria Abell Sales Master Coldwell Banker Jay Lilly Real Estate 22811 Three Notch Road, California, MD 20619 E-mail: gabell@mris.com • Office: 301-863-0300 Ext 1311 Toll Free: 800-257-6633 • Cell: 301-904-6808 Open floor plan w/spacious kitchen w/breakfast bar, bedrooms & baths. 2nd floor condo w/tons of storage in master closet, pantry & laundry rm and increased shelving in garage. Cabinets, counters and flooring are neutral tones-goes with any decor! 1 Car garge conveniently located directly below the unit. Stop cutting grass, shoveling snow, high utility bills and enjoy maintenance free living!

Margaret Taylor REALTOR CENTURY 21 New Millennium

23063 Three Notch Rd • California, MD 20619

$209,900

SM8254001

23580 FDR Blvd #209 California, Md. 20619

Direct: 301.904.1482 • Office: 301.862.2169 • Fax: 301.862.2179 • topproducer@smrealtor.com

BUY • SELL • LEASE • MORTGAGE • TITLE • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

www.c21nm.com

To list a property in our next Realtor’s Choice edition, call 301-373-4125.

Building The Blue Crabs, Burkhart Signs Three More For 2014 Season

Crabs Sign Left-Handed Pitchers Charlie Manning, Jake Brown And Infielder Jesus Merchan Building the Blue Crabs 2014 roster, manager, Lance Burkhart, announced on Tuesday the addition of three players to his squad. Joining the Blue Crabs for the 2014 campaign will be left-handed pitchers, Charlie Manning and Jake Brown. The club also announced the signing of infielder, Jesus Merchan. It will be Merchan and Browns’ first stint with the Blue Crabs.

Manning will be entering his fourth season as a member of Crustacean Nation.

Lefty reliever Manning rejoins the team for his fourth straight year after leading all Blue Crabs Pitchers and finishing tops amongst all Atlantic League pitchers in appearances (74) during the 2013 season. His 74 games appeared in were a career high.

Manning, 34, finished last season with a 2-4 record and a 2.26 ERA in 59.2 innings of relief. His ERA was the thirdbest amongst all Blue Crabs pitchers.

Entering his 12th season of professional baseball, the Winter Haven, Fla., native was drafted by the New York Yankees in the ninth round of the June Amateur Draft in 2001. He made his Major League debut in 2008 as a member of the Washington Nationals. In 57 games with the Nationals, Manning totaled a 1-3 record with 37 strikeouts in 42 innings pitched.

Left-handed pitcher, Jake Brown joins the Blue Crabs after spending the 2013 season across two levels of the Oakland Athletics minor league system.

In total, Brown finished with a 2-3 record with a 4.57 ERA in 61.0 innings pitched.

He finished the season with Midland Rockhounds (AA) of the Texas League after starting the season with Stockton Ports (A+) of the California League.

Brown, 27, is entering his fifth season of professional baseball. In his career, Brown has amassed a 19-24 record in 107 innings pitched with 263 strikeouts. His best season came in 2011 as a member of the Burlington Bees (A) of the Midwest League. With the Bees he finished with a 1.62 ERA and a 4-0 record in 50 innings pitched before be-

ing promoted to High-A Stockton.

The Baltimore, MD., native was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the 26th round of the 2010 MLB Amateur Draft after pitching for North Harford HS in Pylesville, Maryland and then later Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, GA. Infielder, Jesus Merchan, comes to Southern Maryland for his first season in 2014 after spending the last two seasons with the Tucson Padres (AAA) of the Pacific Coast League. Last season, Merchan hit .254 with 18 RBIs and nine doubles in 70 games.

Merchan, 32, is entering his 15th season of professional baseball and his second stint as a member of the Atlantic League. In early 2012, Merchan appeared in 31 games as a member of the Lancaster Barnstormers. With Lancaster he hit .391 with 11 RBIs and 10 doubles. In his professional career, Merchan has accumulated 1,109 hits and a .301 batting average in over a thousand games.

The Maracay, Aragua, Venezuelan native began his career as a member of the Minnesota Twins organization in 2000. The infielder has played for nine different Major League organizations in his career (MIN, PHI, SEA, ARI, CLE, TOR, FLA, COL, SD). He has reached as high as Triple-A six times.

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, 2014. Please call 301-638-9788 or visit www.SOMDbluecrabs.com for more information and to save your seat at the ballpark today!

Test and Tunes at MIR This Weekend On Saturday, March 8th MIR will host a full day Test & Tune. Time runs, grudge runs, testing, and tuning all day long! MIR will also have a free $1,000 to win gamblers race for the bracket racers. So bring your grudge matches, street cars, pro cars, bracket cars, imports, motorcycles, and Jr. Dragsters to MIR! Gates open at 10am, eliminations begin at 3:00pm, and the test & tune is over at 6pm. Admission is just $15.

On Sunday, March 9th MIR will host another full day Test & Tune. Time runs, grudge runs, testing, and tuning all day long! MIR will also have a free $1,000 to win gamblers race for the bracket racers. So bring your grudge matches, street cars, pro cars, bracket cars, imports, motorcycles, and Jr. Dragsters to MIR! Gates open at 10am, eliminations begin at 3:00pm, and the test & tune is over at 6pm. Admission is just $15.

For more information on these events call 301-884-RACE or visit mirdrag. com

Thursday, March 6, 2014

20

A View From The

Bleachers Homework Assignment

By Ronald N. Guy Jr. Contributing Writer Former Tonight Show host Jay Leno, the man with the prodigious chin and elite car collection, used to do occasional streetside “Jaywalking” bits where he’d pepper unsuspecting folks with basic history or general knowledge questions. It produced some of his best work.

There was the Thanksgiving edition where a lady answered “Benjamin Franklin” when asked which president made Turkey Day a national holiday and a guy declared that the Pilgrims landed in “Virginia.” Some of my other favorites include the guy who couldn’t name the author of The Autobiography of Malcolm X, the lady who blanked on the number of stars on the American flag, a young man who didn’t know the home country of the Panama Canal and a high school student who went to Florida to take a dip in…the Pacific Ocean.

Of course how could I forget the lady who, in an apparent ode to Sarah Palin, thought “Africa” was the largest country in South America or the young lady who quipped “the restaurant?” when asked where the Outback was located. Sigh…

This is all quite funny, of course, until you are overwhelmed with example…after example… after flighty example. At some point the smile fades and irritation takes over. Could some of these folks have been so brilliant that they created fictional idiocy to ensure their 15 seconds of fame escaped the editor’s scissors and landed on the small screen? I suppose, but I fear most of these folks – flunkies of fundamental knowledge - legitimately walk among us. They probably even exert influence over others.

I understand the world is different now. I am also acutely aware of my advancing age. I’m tucked into the middle generation. I realize that kids today are far more concerned with Facebook, smartphones and the latest reality T.V. show than they are about the Constitution, geography and The History Channel. I probably would have been the same way, but “my generation”, with the exception of Atari, lacked all the fancy and frivolous

distractions of the electronic world – an age that produces instantaneous information and can aide learning when the crap doesn’t overwhelm the good stuff.

But that’s no excuse. Individuals have a responsibility to build a knowledge base about our country’s history and the world. You don’t have to be a Jeopardy champion, but you do have to be smarter than a fifth grader (assuming of course you’re older than fifth graders). We owe it to our forbearers – a term I’m applying loosely – to understand the contributions they made to our species, our world and our nation. Knowledge of the past and how the world fits together provides a sense of self and belonging, inspires patriotism, promotes understanding and tolerance and diffuses our innate human tendency to obsess over petty differences at the expense of substantial similarities. Colonial Williamsburg’s succinct motto captures the point best: “That the future may learn from the past.”

Which brings me, latently, to sports. Baltimore Orioles manger Buck Showalter was “Jaywalking” with prospect Josh Hart recently and learned the young man didn’t know Orioles legend Frank Robinson. Instead of getting a good chuckle from the naiveté of his nineteen-year-old ball player, Showalter gave Hart a homework assignment: write a one-page paper on Mr. Robinson. To Hart’s credit, he recognized his knowledge gap and completed the assignment.

Baseball isn’t reading, arithmetic or science, but if you are going to play professional baseball, and especially if you are going to play for the Orioles, you need to know Frank Robinson. While Jackie Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier in 1947, a slew of stud African American players riding his coattails - a group that included Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Ernie Banks and, yes, Frank Robinson - forever solidified the MLB diamond as an equal-opportunity workplace.

During his career, Frank Robinson hit 586 homeruns, won the triple crown in 1966, won a MVP award in both the American and National League (the only player to do so…ever), was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982 and was the first African American manager in MLB. Buck Showalter was right. Frank Robinson is worth knowing…and now Josh Hart does.

Send comments to rguyjoon@yahoo.com

Boothe’s Heating and Air Softball League Celebrates Last Year’s Success Photos Courtesy of Harry Pool

Sports News

The County Times

Boothe’s wins their bracket in the One Pitch Tournament with the Over 40 League.

Boothe’s Heating and Air Conditioning wins the finals at Back Road Inn on Sept. 14, 2013.

21

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In Our Charlotte Hall Veteran’s Home Community Receives Donated Golf Cart

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer

Volunteers donated a brand new golf cart to the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home for use by its residents last Saturday. Donations came from American Legion Posts 227 and 293, VFW Post 8810 and AmVets Post 13. The cart itself was purchased at a discount from Metro Golf Carts. Empire Graphics of Waldorf donated the graphics for the cart.

Bonnie Pelletier, Assisted Living Activities Director of the veterans home, says the cart widens the world of its residents.

“A lot of our guys are on walkers or in wheelchairs, so their mobility is limited by how far their legs or their own energy can take them,” she explains.

“Now they’ve got wheels.”

The cart is being used for short trips to the Char-

lotte Hall library and will be used to take residents to the market when the weather gets better. Pelletier says that the simple addition of a golf cart to the facility has already improved the quality of life for the veterans.

“The sensory stimulation of the outdoors is incredible,” she says. “They’re touring our nature trail again. Interacting with the birds and the animals is so much better than four walls.”

“We’re making their lives as happy as we can while they’re still with us,” she adds.

Jeff Levesque, Adjutant for American Legion Post 227 out of Brandywine, says he learned of the need for a cart when he asked Bonnie if the veterans needed anything.

“She told me, ‘I know it’s a tall order, but we really need a golf cart.’ At the time, one cart had quit and the other was on its last leg. Nine or ten organizations got together, raised the money and Metro Golf Cart gave

The new cart with graphics donated by Empire Graphics of Waldorf.

us a good price.”

“The American Legion, VFW, Sons of American Legion… they all came together for a good cause,” Levesque says.

Pelletier agrees. “If it wasn’t for these organizations, our jobs would be a lot harder. Community groups help so much with the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. Many of them are veterans themselves, so it really is veterans helping veterans.”

Volunteers from several community organizations donated time and money to the cause.

Photos courtesy of Charlotte Hall Veteran’s Home

kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Pride in the Park Seeks Participants, Volunteers for May 3 Parade

By Kay Poiro Staff Writer The 3rd annual Pride in the Park parade is scheduled for Saturday, May 3. The event will be dedicated to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s office and Lexington Park Community Oriented Policing Unit (COPS). The recently established law enforcement unit has garnered praise for its effectiveness since its inception last August.

This year, the parade route goes down Great Mills Road and includes a ribbon cutting at a newly completed road and picnic afterward.

Event coordinator and parade planner Karen Stone says almost anyone or anything wishing to participate is welcome.

“You don’t need a fancy float,” she explains. “We’ve had

everything from local Scout Troops to clubs, restaurants, car dealerships, to high school bands and units from the Naval Air Station. Even local mascots have marched with us.”

There are no fees to participate in the parade. Former sponsors of the event include Taylor Gas, Pax River Fire Department and more.

Stone also says volunteers are also welcome to make the parade a success. Help is especially needed supervising the staging area, as well as organizing the ribbon cutting and hosting dignitaries.

Support from the community increases every year, says Stone. “Everyone is proud of the improvements being made in the area. The Department of Economic Development as well as the people who live here are all pleased to promote and show off those improvements, all of which foster pride in Lexington

Park.”

President of the Lexington Park Business and Community Association Mark Pineckenstein describes how the event has grown in two short years.

“Our first parade celebrated the downtown area and the 100th anniversary of the Navy. We had such a big response that we did it the second year under the banner of Pride in the Park.

“The parade gives the folks here an opportunity to celebrate their own community. Neighborhoods get together and march in the parade. That in itself is telling.”

For volunteer or sponsorship information or to register as a participant, contact Karen Stone at (443) 975-9994 or kstone8440@gmail.com. kaypoiro@countytimes.net

Time to Plan for Summer Fun as Summer Camp Registration Opens Online Registration Begins March 1, In Person Registration Starts March 3 Parents ... wondering how you’ll keep your kids occupied for the upcoming summer? Well, the Department of Recreation and Parks has an idea ... 2014 summer camps!

The department offers a variety of camps. There are 17 new “Fun Camps” available for children ages 3 to 17.

Fun Camps begin the week of June 16 and run for one week sessions through Aug. 15. They will operate Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Pricing for each

Fun Camp varies. Camp Keepers (extended care) is available from 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. for $15.00 per session per week.

Fun Camp locations include the Hollywood and Carver Recreation Centers, Elms Beach and Chancellors Run Regional Park.

Add to that Recreation and Parks is offering a special deal. Attend 9 weeks of camp and receive a $50.00 Recre-

ation and Parks gift card!

Parents can register online beginning March 1 at: www.stmarysmd.com/recreate. In person registration begins March 3 at the Recreation & Parks office, 23150 Leonard Hall Drive in Leonardtown or by mail to P.O. Box 653 Leonardtown, Md. 20650.

For more information about the camps call 301-4754200 ext. 1800 or 1801.

23

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

In Our Community

w e i v e R k o Bo

“Living Safely, Aging Well”

by Dorothy A. Drago, M.P.H.

c.2013, Johns Hopkins University Press • $16.95 / Higher in Canada 204 pages

By Terri Schlichenmeyer OW contributor The third step from the bottom squeaks when you tread on it – which is something you tried to remember when you snuck in after curfew.

There’s a light switch near the door that does nothing, and never did. One of the kitchen drawers has a tendency to stick. And someone, sometime, put a strip of wallpaper on upside down.

Yes, the house you grew up in has its peccadilloes but your mother loves it there and she wants to stay. In “Living Safely, Aging Well” by Dorothy A. Drago, M.P.H. you’ll learn how to ensure that she does.

You probably don’t need to be reminded that, as we age, our bodies change. Bones get fragile, eyesight dims, hearing can fade, balance can go out of whack. These things are annoying when you’re younger but can lead to devastating injuries for an elder.

But mere awareness puts you on the advantage. Says Drago, “When you anticipate the possibility of an injury, you can attempt to prevent it.”

Take, for instance, falls.

According to nearly all sources, falls are “the primary injury mechanism for the aging population.” But merely knowing the risk for falls won’t prevent them; you need to know why people fall. Clothing mishaps, problems with furniture, slippery floors, and other environmental reasons can be dealt with individually or with professional help; poor balance, medications and other physical issues can be brought to the attention of a doctor. It can also be reassuring to teach someone how to get up if

they tumble.

But though falls may be first on your mind, there are other things to consider when making a home as safe as possible. Kitchens and bathrooms can be literal hotspots, and there are ways to minimize the risk of burns and scalds. Medication mix-ups can lead to poisoning, which can be easily monitored. The risk of choking – the “third leading cause of home injury death among those over the age of 76…” - can be minimized. And good health decisions can be made through health literacy and by asking your doctor to be an ally.

You want to keep Mom or Dad independent a little longer, whether it’s in their home or yours. Either way, “Living Safely, Aging Well” can give you the tools to do it.

We’ve all seen TV commercials about falling, and while author Dorothy A. Drago, M.P.H. has a huge chapter on that aspect of home safety, I was pleased to see a bigger picture: Drago also digs deeper and offers solutions to other issues that don’t normally come to mind. Boomers will be relieved to know that that includes the hard stuff, like giving up dangerous-but-beloved possessions and furniture, giving up a bit of autonomy, and giving up the driver’s license.

Specifically because of those Inever-thought-of-that issues, I think anyone who’s over age 50 needs this book on their shelf. If you’re concerned about safety for a loved one or want to maintain independence yourself, “Living Safely, Aging Well” will give you the steps you need.

LIBRARY ITEMS K-9 dogs demonstrate search and recovery The public is invited to watch two bloodhounds demonstrate search and recovery and to learn more about search and recovery at the Charlotte Hall branch on Mar. 8 at 10 a.m. The program will be presented by Bay K-9 Search and Recovery Team.

Book sale volunteers needed The books donated for the Friends Annual Book Sale and stored at Leonardtown library will be moved to the fairgrounds on Mar. 8. Besides volunteers, trucks and vans are needed for the move. Volunteers are also needed to help the week before the sale, during the sale, and after the sale. Those interested should contact Jill Zitnick at 301-863-9368 or email stmarysfol@gmail.com.

The sale will be Mar. 14 through Mar. 16. Only members of Friends can shop on Friday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. with membership available at the door. The sale is open to the public on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 noon to 3 p.m. Proceeds from the sale benefit the libraries.

JobSource Mobile Career Center visits Southern Maryland JobSource Mobile Career Center will be at the Leonardtown branch on Mar. 11 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Job seekers can get job counseling and resume help, search for jobs, and get registered with the Maryland Workforce Exchange.

Kids can sample recipes Kids ages 8 to 12 can drop by the café area of the Lexington Park branch on Mar. 11 at 4:30 p.m. to make and sample yummy recipes.

BMX racing basics explained “BMX Racing: What is it?” will be presented by Mike Schwartz of Mike’s Bikes at the Lexington Park branch on Mar. 15 at 10 a.m. The program will cover the basics of the sport including where to go and how to get started. If weather permits, members of his racing team will demonstrate various stunts.

Tax help available at libraries Lifestyles of Maryland Foundation Inc. is providing free IRS-certified tax return preparation assistance at the libraries for households with income of $52,000 or less. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 1-866-293-0623.

Cat of the Week My name is Nora. I was trapped when I was a tiny baby and rescued from a 40 cat feral colony. I was born in September of 2013. I am quite small and my fur is incredibly soft and beautiful. My foster mom thinks she is funny when she says she will make gloves out of my fur. Frankly, I don’t find this amusing. When you touch me, I have an instant purr motor. I will lean my body into your hand to receive your attention. I love to curl up in my foster mom’s bed to go to sleep with her. I let her pet me at that time. I love to sit by my foster mom when she is working on the computer. I love to watch the movement on the screen. I let her pet me and I will purr. I do not like to be picked up and held. I like to be free. Sometimes when you are walking, I will walk next to you and do a loud meow which means that I would like you to bend down to pet me and make me purr. I am a little beautiful Princess, don’t you know?

If you would like to adopt me, please fill out an application at www.feralcatrescuemd.org and email it back to diane@feralcatrescuemd.org.

You can also meet me at the Petco in California on Sundays from 11 to 3 for adoption events. Also Feral Cat Rescue has free spay/neuter grants for cats living in zip code 20659.

Love always, Nora

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

24

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.

March, Month Long • Raymond Ewing and North End Artists - Plein Air Paintings North End Gallery, 41652 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown The North End Gallery will be presenting a fabulous show to start off the Spring season. Titled “Raymond Ewing and North End Artists - Plein Air Paintings”. Ewing, the featured artist, will have over 35 of his own “plein air” works on display in the center Gallery room. Other North End artists will join him in presenting their “plein air” pieces.

“En Plein Air” is a French expression meaning “in the open air”. Painters who practice this style paint directly from nature. The paintings are usually done in a matter of hours without the use of photography. The artists are attempting to capture the changing atmosphere and mood of the landscape.

The Show will run from through March 30. There will be an Opening Reception on Friday, March 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Gallery.

For more information, call 301-4753130 or visit www.northendgallery.org.

Thursday, March 6 • Life Force Class Gateau Physical Therapy (23123 Camden Way, California) – 5 to 5:45 p.m.

The Medically Oriented Gym (M.O.G.) at Gateau Physical Therapy is offering a Tai Chi class beginning March 6.

Life force is Qi (pronounced “chee”), and Tai Chi is based on the premise that good health results from balanced Qi. Restored Qi harmony manifests as improved balance, strength, mobility and comfort. This class will put a therapeutic spin on these ancient concepts. Russell Therrien is a highly trained and motivated instructor whose enthusiastic teaching style makes these ancient practices alive and relevant. The cost is a monthly fee of $40 (four classes) paid in advance. The first class is free! Reserve your space by calling 301-866-5444.

Friday, March 7 • Drug Summit for Parents Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department Hall

(24801 Three Notch Road, Hollywood) – 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

In response to the increase in the number of heroin and pill-related deaths in the community, the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership is sponsoring this open discussion about pills and heroin in St. Mary’s County.

The Drug Summit is geared toward families with teens and young adults in Southern Maryland. Come learn about pathways to drug use and how the drugs are accessed, and take advantage of the opportunity to share youth and parent attitudes about the use of prescription drugs and heroin. We need to hear from you! The reality of the situation is that accidental and lethal overdoses don’t discriminate—your child is not immune from this threat. For more information visit www.facebook.com/DrugSummit or www.healthystmarys.com/drugsummit or call Matt Reisdorph at 301-475-4200, ext. 1681.

• Brown Bag Auction & Lenten Social St. Michael’s School (16560 Three Notch Road, Ridge) – 5 - 7:30 pm St. Michael’s School is holding a Brown Bag Auction and Pizza, Fried Shrimp, and Fish & Chips Dinner. The doors open at 5 p.m. for this inexpensive, fun-filled evening for the entire family. For the paper bag auction, envelopes of 24 tickets are available for $4. There is a bag is in front of each item being raffled, and you put one or more of your tickets in the bag for a chance to win that item. Keep your numbered envelope and wait to hear if your number is called. The drawing begins at 6 p.m. Bring your family and friends to relax, win a few treasures and enjoy the dinner hosted by the eighth grade students. For more information call 301-872-5454.

• First Friday at Port of Leonardtown Winery Port of Leonardtown Winery (23190 Newtowne Neck Road, Leonardtown) – 5 to 7 p.m.

Join the Port of Leonardtown Winery for live jazz from Diane Daly (www.didalymusic.com) in the tasting room as part of First Friday. The cost is $5 for wine tasting up to six wines, and you will take home a souvenir glass!

• Essential Oils Travel Kit Workshop

Lightfoot Massage (22530 Washington Street, Leonardtown) – 6 p.m.

This hands-on workshop is for anyone who would like to learn more about essential oils. The “Touring Set” of essential oils is for use on the go and includes everything needed for situations such as motion sickness, digestive issues, headache, allergy, anxiety, sleeplessness, minor cuts, skin irritations and much more! Each workshop participant will go home with seven oil-filled dram bottles of their choice, a carrying case, a pipette, a carrier oil, a ½-ounce jar of organic cream, one blank inhaler, cotton balls and a satchel for travel. It’s small and convenient to use and has all the essentials! The cost of the workshop is $40 per person. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ events/306202249504937.

• Casino Night Bowles Farm (22880 Budd’s Creek Road, Clements) – 6 p.m.

Join the Father Andrew White School for its annual Casino Night. Featured games include black jack, roulette, poker, money wheels and 50/50. Food and beverages will be available. The event is cash only and you must be age 21 or older to enter.

• Ward Carroll Book Signing Fenwick Street Used Books & Music, 41655 Fenwick St, Leonardtown – 5 to 7 p.m.

Best selling author Ward Carroll will be signing copies of his book “Punk’s War”.

• Plein Air Paintings Opening Reception North End Gallery, 41652 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown – 5 to 8 p.m.

The North End Gallery will be presenting a fabulous show to start off the Spring season. Titled “Raymond Ewing and North End Artists - Plein Air Paintings”. Ewing, the featured artist, will have over 35 of his own “plein air” works on display in the center Gallery room. Other North End artists will join him in presenting their “plein air” pieces.

“En Plein Air” is a French expression meaning “in the open air”. Painters who practice this style paint directly from nature. The paintings are usually done in a matter of hours without the use of photography. The artists are attempting to capture the changing atmosphere and mood of the landscape.

For more information, call 301-4753130 or visit www.northendgallery.org.

Saturday, March 8 • SMTMD Contra Dance Christ Episcopal Church Parish Hall (37497 Zach Fowler Road, Chaptico) – 7 to 10 p.m.

The Southern Maryland Traditional Music and Dance (SMTMD) is sponsoring a Contra Dance featuring caller Greg Frock.

The doors open at 7 p.m. and the dancing begins at 7:30 p.m. 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 of how much fun it can be. If you haven’t, it’s about time you tried it! Beginners are encouraged to arrive at 7 p.m. 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 just need to be comfortable and able to move freely. There will be an ice cream social following the dance. For more information go to www.smtmd.org.

• Vintage Sale and Flea Market Mt. Olive Farm (45433 Drayden Road, Valley Lee) – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

DBN (Don’t Buy New) is excited to announce it First Annual Vintage Sale and Flea Market on Saturday and Sunday, March 8 and 9. Come out and find unique and wonderful items from all different kinds of vendors and dealers. It’s a vintage flea market like you have never seen! There will even be a DIY furniture selection. For more information, email dbn.oconnor@aol.com or visit www.facebook.com/dontbuynew.

• Baskets and Bags Bingo Father Andrew White School (22850 Washington Street, Leonardtown) – 6 to 11 p.m.

St. Mary’s Ryken is sponsoring an evening of bingo featuring baskets by Longaberger and bags by Thirty-One. Doors open at 6 p.m., and games start at 7 p.m. Admission is $20, which includes a book of 20 regular games. Additional game books are $5. And Special books of four games are $4.

There also will be a 50/50 raffle and cash card games. Food will be available for purchase.

For more information, call 301-373-4182.

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.

2/16 Flying Trapeze Class outing Sign up required: 301-997-1300 x 865 Beacon now open Tuesday evenings!

5-6:30 p.m. SMART Recovery & Family & Friends 7-8 p.m. Co-dependents Anonymous

Beacon of Hope: a free center offering peer support for adults in a fun & sober atmosphere, at 21800 N. Shangri La, Millison Plaza, Lexington Park.

Freelance Photographers

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

25

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

• Passion of Christ Auditions Southern Community Center, 20 Appeal Lane, Lusby – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Auditions are underway for the sixth annual presentation of Passion of Christ. This will be our sixth consecutive year. This community-based production is open to all and requires about 30 men, 20 women and ten children, plus singers and dancers. If possible, please bring a short prepared piece to highlight your talents. The production will be April 18 (Good Friday) and 19.

For further information, call 443-2953202 or visit the Facebook page at Passion of Christ Southern Maryland.

Sunday, March 9 • Community Breakfast Father Andrew White School, 22850 Washington Street, Leonardtown – 8 to 11:30 a.m.

Father Andrew White School Home and School Association is sponsoring a community all-you-can-eat breakfast in the school gym. The menu features eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits with gravy, pancakes and more. Cost: Ages 13 and up - $8 Ages 4-12 - $4 Under 3 – free.

Monday, March 10 • Livestock and Poultry Producer Workshop SMECO Auditorium 15035 Burnt Store Road, Hughesville – 6 p.m.

Southern Maryland Meats, a program of the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission, invites poultry and livestock producers to a free workshop on pricing, marketing barriers, and customer perception of locally raised meats. RSVP by email to: jherbert@smadc.com or call 301-274-1922 ex.1 The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC) is committed to: a) a market-driven and sustainable farming future as Maryland transitions away from tobacco. b) a Maryland where farmland preservation, and environmental stewardship positively impact the quality of our air and water and c) cultivating awareness among consumers and leaders of the vital role our farms play in a balanced community, safe, nutritious food and a cleaner and healthier environment. To learn more about additional programs and resources, contact SMADC, P. O. Box 745, Hughesville, MD 20637; phone: 301-2741922, Ex. 1, or fax: 301-274-1924.

• Pax River Quilters Guild Meeting Good Samaritan Lutheran Church, 20850 Langley Road, Lexington Park – 6:30 p.m.

This month features a trunk show and lecture “Where did you get that idea?” by our guest speaker, award winning quilt artist Leanna Paylor. Check her out on the web lapaylor.blogspot.com. Guest welcome, $5 on speaker night or join now for $10. For more information about PRQG, contact Julia Graves at juliagraves82@hotmail.com or visit www.paxriverquiltguild.com.

• Exercise and Diabetes Medically Oriented Gym, 23123 Camden Way, California The Medically Oriented Gym at Gateau Physical Therapy is conducting a study to examine how exercise impacts the Type II Diabetes process. During the 6-month study, participants will receive a free 6-month Medically Oriented Gym membership, a personalized exercise program, safety instructions on all fitness equipment, access to all equipment and group fitness classes, an initial assessment, 90-day and 180-day re-assessments, and progress notes to your physician if requested. In order to participate, you must be between 40-70 years old, have a diagnosis of Type II Diabetes for at least one year, and receive a physician referral and medical release for participation in a mild to moderate intensity exercise program with a commitment to attend at least 3 times per week. The next session begins on March 10, 2014; participation is limited to 10 participants. The M.O.G. is

located off of FDR Boulevard at MD. Contact Keri today at 301-866-5444 for more information and to reserve your space.

Wednesday, March 12 • TPP/ANA Panel & Reception Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, 22156 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park – 5 to 7 p.m.

Friday, March 14 • Stained Glass: Next Steps Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center, 13480 Dowell Road, Solomons, 6 to 9 p.m.

Mar 12- April 16 Series: 5-class series Member Cost: $115 Nonmember Cost: $130 Materials Fee: $10- $25 due to instructor at class, depending on glass choices Instructor: Leza Hepler Continue refining your stained glass skills in this 5-part series. Choose from a broad variety of projects and create a 20-30 piece suncatcher/panel using the copper foil technique. Must take the Intro to Stained Glass class first. This series is great to take again and again--just choose a different project each time! Registration required.

Call 410-326-4640 to register. For more information, visit www.annmariegarden.org.

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Entertainment

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

26

St. Mary’s Ryken Presents “Beauty and the Beast”

Emily Grace and Connor Bullis

Christine Szewczyk, left, Trent Hall and Erin Carroll; (kneeling) Chelsi Marcellana

It’s “a tale as old as time.” Your favorite Disney characters from movie will be on stage in the musical version of “Beauty and the Beast” to be performed by St. Mary’s Ryken students on Thursday, March 6; Friday, March 7; and Saturday, March 8.

Shows begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. In addition, there will be a 1 p.m. matinee performance on Saturday, March 8. All performances will be held in the Romuald Hall Theater on the lower campus. Tickets can be purchased online at www.smrhs.org. The lobby will open for ticket sales one hour before show time. $10 for adults and $5 for students. St. Mary’s Ryken is at 22600 Camp Calvert Rd., Leonardtown, MD, 20650.

Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, is imprisoned in a castle by the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self, but time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. The show features songs from the movie and several written just for the stage production.

“Beauty and the Beast” is produced through special arrangement with Musical Theater International Inc. St. Mary's Ryken is a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory high school sponsored by the Xaverian Brothers and dedicated to individualized student growth.

Students come from many different counties across the region including Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, King George, Prince George’s and St. Mary’s counties.

27

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

n O g Goin

23971 Mervell Dean Rd Hollywood, MD 20636

In Entertainment

Thursday, March 6

Piranhas Acoustic Ruddy Duck Brewery (13200 Dowell Road, Dowell) – 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Dave Norris DB McMillan’s (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 6 to 10 p.m.

Charlie Johnson Toot’s Bar, 23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood – 8:30 to 12:30 p.m.

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

Backstage Pass Anthony’s Bar and Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Boulevard, Dunkirk) – 9p.m.

Dave Norris DB McMillan’s (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 6 to 10 p.m.

George Dunn Ruddy Duck Brewery (13200 Dowell Road, Dowell) – 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Roadhouse Band Andersons Bar (23945 Colton Point Road, Clements) – 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Too Many Mikes Vera’s White Sands Beach Club (1200 White Sands Drive, Lusby) – 9 p.m.

The Not So Modern Jazz Quartet The Westlawn Inn (9200 Chesapeake Avenue, North Beach) - 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Bar Dogs Chiefs Bar, 44584 Tall Timbers Road, Tall Timbers – 7:30 p.m.

DJ Charlie Thompson Toot’s Bar, 23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood – 8:30 to 12:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 9 Joe Martone Ruddy Duck Seafood and Alehouse (16810 Piney Point Road, Piney Point) – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Charlie Thompson Toot’s Bar, 23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood – 3 to 7 p.m.

Monday, March 10

Hydra Fx Ruddy Duck Seafood and Alehouse (16810 Piney Point Road, Piney Point) – 7 p.m. to midnight

Team Trivia DB McMillan’s (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Bar Dogs Quades Store, 36786 Bushwood Wharf Road, Bushwood – 8 to 11 p.m.

Team Trivia Ruddy Duck Brewery (13200 Dowell Road, Dowell) – 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Three Days of Rain Toot’s Bar, 23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood – 8:30

Karaoke Toot’s Bar, 23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood – 8:30 to 12:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 8

Tuesday, March 11

The Egg Cryer’s Back Road Inn (22094 Newtowne Neck Road, Compton) – 9 p.m.

Fair Warning DB McMillan’s (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 5 to 9 p.m.

The County Times is always looking for more local talent to feature! To submit art or band information for our entertainment section, e-mail info@ somdpublishing.net. Please submit calendar listings by 12 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to our Thursday publication.

301-373-2955

erinG PlAc e

A GAth

TOOT’S MARCH 2014 ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR SUNDAY 2

CHARLIE THOMPSON 3-7

9

MONDAY

TUESDAY

3 Meatball Monday 4 p.m..

4 $2.00 all beer, Crown and Captain!

Taco Tuesday at 4 p.m..

Open Mic. 8:30

Karaoke 8:30-12:30 10 Meatball Monday 4 p.m..

3-7

Karaoke 8:30-12:30

11 $2.00 all beer, Crown and Captain!

Taco Tuesday at 4 p.m..

Open Mic. 8:30

16

17

18 $2.00 all

CHARLIE THOMPSON

BLUE EYED BLUES JAM!

GREEN MEATBALLS!

3- 7 P.M.

IRISH Karaoke 8:30-12:30 24 Meatball Monday 4 p.m..

23 MOTOWN WITH; THE WINSTONS 3-7 30 Bluegrass With; THE CALIFORNIA

RAMBLERS!

WE

beer, Crown and Captain!

Taco Tuesday at 4 p.m..

Open Mic. 8:30

Wednesday

Thursday

S.I.N. Night $3.00 Specials 12 Team Trivia 6:30

8:30-12:30

13 Charlie Johnson

14

15

S.I.N. Night $3.00 Specials

8:30-12:30

19 Team Trivia 6:30

20

DON’T CALL ME SHIRLEY! 21

22

Charlie Johnson

angiestalcup@countytimes.net

7 3 DAYS OF RAIN! 8:30

WILD GOOD

S.I.N. Night $3.00 Specials

The Pirannha’s 8:30-12:30

26 Team Trivia 6:30

27 D.J. Charlie

S.I.N. Night $3.00 Specials

Thompson

Karaoke 8:30-12:30

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APRIL 1

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Games

CLUES ACROSS 1. Plural of eyrir 6. Concord 12. Photographer 16. Atomic #18 17. Tobacco cylinder 18. Of I 19. 1/10 meter (abbr.)

20. In the year of Our Lord 21. Belittle 22. 1/2 of an em 23. Equally 24. Cornmeal mush (British) 26. Desires 28. Of sound mind 30. 1st moon man’s initials 31. Public broadcasting 32. Bodily cavity 34. Insecticide 35. County in China 37. Platforms 39. Frost 40. Crucifix 41. Bodily faculties 43. Seladang 44. Denotes three 45. Imbibe slowly 47. What’s left 48. Liberal degree 50. Competition 52. Confederate 54. 7th Hindu month 56. Senator Frankin 57. “Crying” singer’s initials 59. Taro root dish 60. Bahrain dinar 61. Sun god 62. 39th state 63. In a harmful way 66. Immunoglobulin (abbr.)

67. Differences 70. Moves slowly 71. Snarl, growl (var. sp.)

CLUES DOWN

1. Aviator 2. Boutros’ group 3. Go over 4. Be among 5. Cloth scrap 6. Clerks 7. Vacuum tube 8. Actress Blanchett 9. Removes the lid 10. Atomic #45

The County Times 11. Peremptorily 12. Dishonorable men 13. Spanish appetizers 14. Algerian gulf & port 15. Sets again 25. About Freemason 26. One point N of due W 27. Not happy 29. Accumulates on the surface 31. Peels an apple 33. Diamond weight unit 36. Possesses 38. Note 39. About heraldry 41. Hair filament

Thursday, March 6, 2014

42. Title of respect 43. Hair product 46. Colas 47. Capital of Huila, Colombia 49. More diaphanous 51. Eliminate 53. Change to a vapor 54. Ancient temple sanctums 55. Pesters 58. Off-Broadway award 60. Light Russian pancake 64. Baseball official 65. Work unit 68. Jr.’s father 69. Atomic #77

Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions

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.

Publication Days

Real Estate Rentals

Looking to build? Wonderful & wooded three+acre building lot in Hollywood with three conventional perc sites. Beautiful and private homesite just waiting for you and your dream home. Conveniently located to Pax River, Leonardtown, & easy commute to Waldorf, St Mary’s City, NESEA, etc. Call for plat or appointment to preview property.

804-241-5374 or 301-690-2544. Price: $99,900.

3br 2.5ba duplex on cul-de-sac, 2 parking spaces in front, master bedroom with en suite bathroom, cathedral ceiling, and walk-in closet. Wall-to-wall carpeting throughout, washer, dryer, window treatments, stove, dishwasher, microwave. Very close to PAX, shopping, schools, $1325/mo+sec dep, no sec 8, dog neg, NS 301-994-2791.

1-Bedroom - Central in-town location. All electric appliances and heat. Landlord pays water, trash removal, and sewage. 1-year lease required. References required. No pets and no children. Call 301-475-8787 for further details. $650/month.

Important Information

The Calvert Gazette is published each Thursday.

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

Real Estate for Sale

Real Estate Rentals

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Quiet, private area in Valley Lee. 3 BR, 1.5 BA, Lrg Kitchen, Living/Dining Rm, plenty of closet space. W/D, Heat Pump/ CAC. Extra storage. Asphalt Parking. Cable TV is furnished. Dumpster for trash on site.

1600 sq ft. No Pets, No Section 8. References required. $1,200.00/mo plus utilities. $1,000 security depost. Call 301-994-2908. After 5PM call 301-994-2031.

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

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We limit the number of representatives in a determined area to insure maximum coverage and profitability of our representatives. The State requires our representatives to have a current Life insurance license. If you are currently not licensed, you may still be eligible in this area for this opportunity and we will assist you in the easiest way to obtain this license. (Can be obtained in 1 week) - Willing to train the right people that would be assets to our team***** Email your resume today to set up an Interview: Dovefinancial@outlook.com Serious Inquiries only please.

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

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Thursday, March 6, 2014

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The County Times

SENIOR LIVING Drug Summit for Parents

A Drug Summit for Parents will be held at the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Hall on Friday, Mar. 7 beginning at 6:30 p.m. It is geared toward families with teens and young adults in St. Mary’s County. We need to hear from you! Come learn about pathways to use, how the drugs are accessed, and take advantage of the opportunity to share youth and parents attitudes about the use of prescription drugs and heroin. For more information visit www.facebook.com/DrugSummit or www. healthystmarys.com/drugsummit. You may call Matt Reisdorph at 301-475-4200, ext. 1681.

Thursday, March 6, 2014

St. Mary’s Department of Aging Programs and Activities additional training, including: roundabouts, pavement markings, stop-sign compliance, red-light running, and safety issues such as speeding, seatbelt and turn-signal use. This class will be offered at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Tuesday, Mar. 11 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The cost is $15for AARP members, $20 for nonmembers, payable to AARP. Members must show their membership card to get the member rate. Advance sign up is required. Call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050.

Wearin’ of the Green Bash at O’Garvey

The Northern Council is sponsoring a one-day trip to Harrington Casino on Wednesday, Apr. 9. The cost is $35 which includes luxury motor coach transportation by Keller, $15 slot play, complimentary buffet lunch, morning and evening refreshments and driver gratuity. There are a few seats remaining.

If you’re interested, contact Pat Myers at 301-884-8714.

For the luck of the Irish, join us for our Annual St. Patrick’s Day bash at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Monday, Mar. 17 at Noon. Enjoy a meal of ham and cabbage, steamed carrots and potatoes, Irish soda bread, Watergate salad, /milk/ coffee/tea. Irish tunes to be performed by David Norris, singer of traditional Irish pub tunes. Cost for lunch is by donation for those ages 60 and above and $6 for those under the age of 60. To make reservations, call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050. Remember to wear your lucky green!

Hearing Loss & Treatment Options

Breakfast Café

Harrington Casino Trip

On Thursday, Mar. 13, at 11 a.m., Hearing Audiologist, Dr. Gina Diaz, will discuss hearing loss and what can be done to treat the condition at the Northern Senior Activity Center.

The presentation will review how we hear, the causes of hearing loss, what to know before investing in hearing aids and how to avoid being vulnerable to gimmicks and offers for products that can actually cause further damage to the hearing system. This session is open for discussion with Q&A encouraged. Call 301475-4002, ext. 1001 to sign up.

On Wednesday, Mar. 12 at 9 a.m., scrambled egg casserole with meat, home fries, toast & peaches will be served for breakfast at the Northern Senior Activity Center. Let us do the cooking and cleanup in the morning while you enjoy a great start to your day and good conversation with others. Breakfast is homemade by Ginger, and served with complimentary beverages. Cost is only $2 per person and sign up and payment is due by 9 a.m. the day before. Please call 301-475-4002, ext. 1001 with any questions.

AARP Smart Driver Course

Massages by Appointment

As a result of evidence-based research findings, the AARP adjusted their Smart Driver curriculum in 2014 to include a focus on areas where older drivers could benefit from

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On Mondays, starting at 10 a.m., therapeutic massages are offered at the Northern Senior Activity Center. Licensed Massage Therapist, Sherry Zollinhofer, offers half hour ses-

sions at the rate of $25 per session. This is an excellent way for increasing circulation and relieving tired, aching muscles.

Massage therapy has been shown to increase energy, reduce stress, tension and anxiety. Call 301-475-4002, ext. 1001 for an appointment.

Hypertension and Blood Pressure Checks

On Friday, Mar. 14, at 11:30 a.m., MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Health Connections will be traveling to the Northern Senior Activity Center to offer information concerning hypertension as it relates to your health. Blood pressure checks will be available. Walk-ins are welcome.

Free Screening and Hearing Presentation

An audiologist from The Hearing Professionals will be at the Loffler Senior Activity Center to do a presentation on Thursday, Mar. 20 at 10 a.m. The topic will be ‘Hearing Loss and Treatment Options’. They will review how we hear, causes of hearing loss and information you need to know before investing in hearing aids. The following Thursday, Mar. 27, staff from the Hearing Professionals will be back to offer free hearing screenings. To sign up for the presentation and/or to make an appointment for a 15- minute screening call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658.

Pinochle in the Afternoon

At the Loffler Senior Activity Center pinochle players love the game so much that an additional afternoon group has been started! On the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month, pinochle players begin games at noon. New players are welcome.

Weather and medical appointments may impact the amount of participation. To ensure a game will take place that day, call Loffler at 301-737-5670, ext. 1658 on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday mornings after 10 a.m. to find out if they will be playing in the afternoon.

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.

John Brookbank

By Linda Reno Contributing Writer John Brookbank, son of James Brookbank (1738-1817) and his wife Mary _____, was born prior to 1760.

During the Revolutionary War he served as a Private in Lee’s Legion, originally formed on June 8, 1776 at Williamsburg, VA, under the command of Henry “Light Horse Harry” Lee (father of Robert E. Lee). They served primarily in the Southern states gaining “a reputation for efficiency and bravery on the battlefield and ruthlessness equal to that of Tarleton’s Raiders” but did see some action in the North. Among other feats, they were credited with retaking South Carolina after it fell to the British.

John probably joined this group about April 1778 when Lee’s Legion set up a recruiting post in Charles County. The unit was disbanded at war’s end in 1783 and then John came home to St. Mary’s County where he was listed at the time of the 1790 census.

About 1790, for reasons we will probably never know, John got himself into trouble. His father petitioned then Governor John Eager Howard* on his son’s behalf and Howard heard the father’s plea.

A Journey Through Time The

“It appears by the petition of James Brookbank of St. Mary’s County that a presentment has been found by the grand jury of the said County against John Brookbank for the supposed theft of a silver can--that he has conducted himself through life with unimpeachable integrity—that he entered into the service of this country at an early period and was present in several actions during which he discharged the duty of a soldier with bravery, honesty and good conduct so as to merit the esteem and confidence of his officers. The petitioner solicits the interposition of the Government in his son’s favor and several respectable inhabitants of the said County, among whom are several Justices of the Court, having certified the truth of the facts stated in the petition and some of the Officers of the late Maryland Line of the Army of the United States, having also represented him as a faithful, honest, good soldier and earnestly recommending him to the clemency of the Government. Ordered that all proceedings of law cease and no further prosecution be had or carried against him concerning the same.

Signed by John Eager Howard, March 18, 1790.

In 1795 John Brookbank was awarded 100 acres of bounty land in Washington County, Maryland and was shown living in the town of Williamsport at the time of the 1800 census.

During the War of 1812 John Brookbank served his country again and served as a Captain in the 10th Regiment. *John Eager Howard was the bravest of the brave and is

Chronicle

memorialized in the third verse of “Maryland My Maryland”: Thou wilt not cower in the dust, Maryland! Thy beaming sword shall never rust, Maryland! Remember Carroll’s sacred trust, Remember Howard’s warlike thrust, And all thy slumberers with the just, Maryland! My Maryland!

His son was Charles Howard (1802-1869) who married Elizabeth Phebe Key, daughter of Francis Scott Key and Mary Tayloe Lloyd.

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The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Wanderings of an Aimless

d

Min

“Doesn’t It Just Figure?”

By Shelby Oppermann Contributing Writer

It just figures! Since I had my primary care doctor’s appointment a few weeks ago, I have lost 7 pounds. This is actually a wonderful thing I know. But why did it have to happen before Fat Tuesday! I will gain some pounds back and get discouraged. My will power for anything with cheese, bread, and milk is almost non-existent. And today is a day for pancakes and night time breakfasts before we give all that up for Lent. Sundays are still feast days, but I think most people stick with moderation even then. Lent does not always have to be a time for giving up bad habits like sweets, it can also mean adding in something good in your life. A new mind set of self-improvement always works.

Though it doesn’t really matter about Fat Tuesday today, because my husband and I had a “Fat Monday” yesterday.

I’m not sure what happened. I’ll blame it all on the snow; the never-ending, tiring snow, inflamed joints, and social media.

My name for it is snow fatigue. Social media comes in to play because a friend posted something about bacon, which I then mentioned to my husband, and he in turn said, “Do we have bacon? If we do I’ll fix you bacon and a cheese omelet.” Who am I to argue, especially when I am laid up on the couch with a knee brace on and strict instructions to stay there. This was after 11 and considered lunch or brunch anyway.

Wow, it was good, especially when someone else cooks a hot, hearty breakfast for you! And I didn’t want to mention I had already had breakfast hours earlier of half a banana, and a Pumpernickel & American White Cheese sandwich – an ultimate comfort, fond childhood memory type of sandwich: The early morning sandwich I ate while in snow trauma stage.

I went downstairs just now to check my weight on the scale and was pleased to see I was at the same weight from the weekend. Maybe I’m on the downhill side of my weight plateau and will get back down to my ideal weight. It’s hard for me to believe that at 52 I can get back to 112 as one weight chart suggested. I like WebMD’s questions and summary of where I should be. At my age, I should be somewhere between 98 to 132 lbs. The top end is probably more realistic for me, and that’s with dropping 2 lbs. a week on 1200 calories a day.

But this will all start tomorrow – NOT on Fat Tuesday!

My husband and I really blew it around 4 p.m. yesterday when he said, “Why don’t you put some of the frozen chocolate chip cookies in the oven? I’ll even turn on the oven and you’ll just have to put them in and take them out.” If he was eating a chocolate bar, or ice cream I would have been fine.

But who can smell chocolate chip cookies baking and not want to have one warm from the oven and a glass of milk?

The problem is that we each had 5, and then didn’t eat anything for dinner – or rather felt too bloated from bacon and cookies to even think about dinner.

So, if we can get through the rest of the day with maybe a pancake or two each, then we will get back on track from Wednesday on. You might have to check on me once or twice during Lent, but please…let me have my Sunday Feast days!!!

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

Muscle Food

By Debra Meszaros CSN www.MXSportsNutrition.com Are you trying to build muscle or loose weight?

Do you struggle to reach your protein intake goals?

Are you tired of your routine foods?

As humans we love routine, it helps us plan our day and accomplish goals. It’s easy to become uninspired or bored with eating the same foods each day, and if you’re a person with an active lifestyle or perhaps an athlete, you realize how important food is to your body’s health and performance.

Since no one likes monotony, and neither does your body, there is one common nutritional product that can be easily incorporated into foods to help you break the monotonous dietary cycle.

Here’s a few easy steps to “Power up” common foods to not only add new life to them, but to increase the nutritional value as well.

Most have either used or heard of whey protein. It is most commonly used to create protein shakes, but there are far more uses for protein powder than you think. It is important that when choosing a protein powder you are utilizing a non-denatured form like whey protein concentrate. 100% concentrated whey protein powder has many advantages over whey protein isolates. Isolates are not non-denatured, they are processed; missing much of the synergistic nutrition nature has placed in it. So read your container carefully and look for 100% whey protein concentrate.

Now that you have the correct form of protein lets get creative. I’ll begin with some breakfast ideas first. Pancakes, simply add one to two scoops of protein powder to a multi-grain or gluten free mix and you have just created “power pancakes”. I have found the best flavor protein powder to use with pancakes is vanilla. You can also make a pancake mix with just protein pow-

der and water. Just mix the two together in a proportion equivalent to the consistency you like in pancakes and cook as usual.

You can also prepare your favorite oatmeal and add the protein powder to that as well. Interestingly the whey protein powder actually creates a tasty milk that compliments the oatmeal. If yogurt is your thing, you can add protein powder to yogurt for an additional protein boost. Although eggs are nature’s perfect food, adding a scoop of protein powder to your scrambled egg batter packs in some additional nutritional punch.

If your looking for a dinner idea, try adding some protein powder to your favorite mashed potato recipe. I have found the best flavor protein powder would be plain, unflavored.

When it comes to the most enjoyable part of our diets we can’t forget a few dessert options. You can quickly “power up” your favorite pudding or Jello mix with a scoop of protein powder. It is also extremely easy to add protein powder to almost any baking recipe, cookies, cakes, and more! Experiment with this wonderful, versatile product, you’ll be amazed at how many different ways it can be used. ©2014 Debra Meszaros MXSportsNutrition.com. All rights reserved; no duplication without permission.

DISCLAIMER: When you read through the diet and lifestyle information, you must know that everything within it is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. I am making no attempt to prescribe any medical treatment. You should not use the information here for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. The products and the claims made about specific products have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Confirm the safety of any supplements with your M.D., N.D. or pharmacist (healthcare professional). Some information given is solely an opinion, thought and or conclusion based on experiences, trials, tests, assessments or other available sources of information. I do not make any guarantees or promises with regard to results. I may discuss substances that have not been subject to double blind clinical studies or FDA approval or regulation. You assume the responsibility for the decision to take any natural remedy.

You and only you are responsible if you choose to do anything with the information you have read. You do so at your own risk. I encourage you to make your own health decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.

Hard Lessons Learned at the End of the Gun Laura Joyce Contributing Writer Back in October of 2012, a neighbor two streets down held a loaded gun on Benji and his friend Jackson for nothing more than walking through our neighborhood at 11:30 in the evening. Ever since, I’ve been unable to turn away from the media coverage of trials involving teens being shot by vigilantes. Many of the details seem so personal, yet so familiar, as if they’re telling our story, too. In both high-profile cases that reached verdicts recently, the boys—Trayvon Martin and Jordan Davis—were killed by fearful, angry men who provoked absolutely unnecessary confrontations and then claimed that they shot the boys in self-defense.

As I’ve watched the news coverage, I’ve known how lucky we are, of course: our boys weren’t shot. I’ve also been painfully aware, though, that dozens, maybe hundreds of split-second decisions are all that make this so.

I’ve always been struck by the anger these men carried around, the proverbial chip on their shoulders. Both men were just one bad mood, one provocation, one teenager away from turning into a killer. In all of the cases, the anger seemed to provoke a completely unnecessary confrontation: Martin was doing nothing more than walking home when Zimmerman profiled him, stalked him and killed him; Davis was playing his music loudly when Dunn decided to shoot him for it. In our case, the same kind of absurdity exists: the gun-owner felt so threatened by two boys walking through the neighborhood that he got his gun, left the safety of his home, left his property (one boy had never left the sidewalk; the other had briefly wandered onto a common area adjacent to the gun-owner’s yard), then closed the gap between himself and the boys and, at gunpoint, forced one of the boys to walk onto his property in order to force him to the ground.

Watching the Zimmerman and Dunn trials and hearing them speak, I saw two men who lived encased in a brittle shell

of fear and anger, men who nurtured their sense of resentment and outrage that the world doesn’t treat them with the respect they feel they deserve. A kid walking home doesn’t immediately acknowledge the greater power of the guy following him, so that guy, Zimmerman, will show him who’s powerful—and out comes the gun. A teen playing his music loudly doesn’t instantly recognize that a grumpy middle-aged guy has a God-given right to quiet that outweighs the teen’s right to loud music, so that guy, Michael Dunn, will show him what a God-given right looks like—and out comes his gun. And two boys don’t realize that the home they’re walking near is inhabited by someone who wouldn’t think to stay inside and call the police if he is fearful: a gun lends a man unusual and dangerous courage.

It’s been 18 months since my son and Jackson found themselves facing a loaded gun, and even now, every single time I stand at the mailboxes bordering the yard of the home where the gun-owner lives, I am reminded again of how very, very lucky we are that the boys didn’t run in fear, that the man with the gun didn’t decide to shoot or, for that matter, mishandle the gun and accidentally fire. When I hear neighborhood children playing out back, running between the houses on the common areas between lots, I worry, wondering if they will arrive home safely. And I still wake up to night terrors, like a child who finds a monster in the shadows of the home that once seemed safe.

My monster is a police officer who takes over my dreams, arriving at my door to tell me that my son, who just went for a walk, won’t ever be coming home.

For a long time, I thought I had nothing in common with my vigilante neighbor, the guy with the gun who endangered the lives of our two innocent and precious sons. I saw him as a fearful person who looked out of the window of his safe home in his safe neighborhood yet saw danger right across the street.

It’s been a hard lesson to have to learn: in that way, if no other, we’re just the same now.

I love hearing from you; feel free to contact me at thewordtech@md.metrocast.net if you have comments or questions about the column.

The County Times

Thursday, March 6, 2014

With the county’s first LEED-certified building already on site, and a proposed state-of-the-art design that recycles water, our project won’t take away from the Chesapeake’s wonder.

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. With the nation’s commitment to natural gas exports, 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

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