Wednesday, December 24, 2014
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The County Times
Wednesday December 24, 2014
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
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“Healthcare costs are increasing far beyond what can be sustained by increases in maintenance of effort funding.”
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— Interim Schools Superintendent J. Scott Smith on rising health care costs faced by the public schools system.
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
Prosecutors Want More Office Space
By Guy Leonard Staff Writer State’s Attorney Richard Fritz is requesting more space for his staff at the District Court building in Leonardtown. Most of the state’s attorney’s office staff is headquartered in downtown Leonardtown at the Circuit Court but only a small room on the first floor of the Carter Building at the Governmental Center is made available for prosecutors and support staff at District Court. “Our current space in the Carter State Office Building measures 754 square feet and serves as the primary work space for one full time attorney, four other attorneys there part-time at least once per week and five full time staff positions,” Fritz wrote to the Board of County Commissioners. “We have two other staff positions and one investigator that are primarily serving the District Court but cannot be located in our District Court office because of the inadequate space.” Fritz said the situation there “puts a tremendous hardship on the citizens of St.
Mary’s County who wish to take advantage of our community service program, our merchants who have been victims of bad checks, victims of crime and witnesses who have to appear in District Court.” The Board of County Commissioners have already put out requests for inquiries into local vacant buildings, including the PNC Bank building in Leonardtown as possible extra space to place county agencies. Elected leaders in the Town of Leonardtown have expressed interest in the Board of County Commissioners’ intentions towards the building. Fritz stated in his letter that his office wanted a reception area, a conference room and additional space for file storage. “Accordingly we would request 1,500 to 2,000 square feet for our current needs,” Fritz wrote. Rebecca Bridgett, county administrator, said Fritz’s request, and that of other county departments for additional space needs would soon be near the top of the agenda for county commissioners, who are set to review a space needs study after the first of the new year. “We’ll bring that back to the commissioners for the budget process in January,” Bridgett said. guyleonard@countytimes. net
Local News
Schools Looking to Boost Healthcare Reserves By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Interim Schools Superintendent J. Scott Smith is asking the Board of County Commissioners to continue supporting school system employees by funding both other post employment benefits (OPEB) and health care costs but said the system itself is shifting more money towards its health care reserves. He also warned that the county would likely have to give more money to ensure the system can pay its health care bills in the near future. Smith stated in a letter that county elected leaders had requested the system budget $625,000 to its own OPEB trust for retired employees but the system had plans to put more money towards a healthcare reserve to guard against last fiscal year’s budget shortfall of some $6 million brought about by increased health care costs and the decision by the school board to budget less for health care. An analysis completed by Bolton Partners, retained by the school system, advised the school system to build their health care reserve back up to $4 million,
according to Smith’s letter to commissioners. The health care reserve as of June 30, 2014 was just $400,000. For fiscal 2015 the school system has $625,000 budgeted for its healthcare reserve but still must deal with $2.5 million in accrued liability and will contribute just $219,000 to OPEB. “Understanding that healthcare costs will continue to increase, the fiscal 2016 budget will be developed with the healthcare reserve budget intact, contributing an additional $625,000 of employer contributions and $219,000 of employee/retiree contributions,” Smith wrote. He went on to say that the system would put identical amounts of money into OPEB starting in fiscal 2017, following prior shifts of money into healthcare reserves. “Healthcare costs are increasing far beyond what can be sustained by increases in maintenance of effort funding,” Smith wrote. “As such we have taken our first step in attempting to curtail some of the costs by putting our pharmaceutical plan our for bid, looking to recognize competitive savings.” guyleonard@countytimes.net
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Local News
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
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Christmas Joy in Miniature Form
By Emily Charles Contributing Writer “If you’re looking for something to do at Christmastime that is enjoyable for all ages, this is definitely a good place to come,” said the St. Clement’s Island Museum’s Christmas Doll and Train exhibit coordinator Christina Barbour. This is the museum’s 29th doll and train exhibit, with dolls and trains provided by the Southern Maryland Doll Club, the Black-eyed Susan Doll Club and local residents like Maggie Hammett, who contributed a train track and a dollhouse to the exhibit in addition to two decorated Christmas trees and two wreathes for a raffle. In addition, Hammett and her husband played Santa and Mrs. Claus at the exhibit’s open house. Hammett, one of the exhibit’s main participants, has been involved in this showcase for about 10 years, she said, and loves the festivity the exhibit brings. While she displays the same train set and dollhouse every year, she rearranges both the train set and its surrounding village and the dollhouse’s rooms and decor so that visitors never see the same thing twice, she said. The event in its entirety takes about a week to set up, Hammett said, largely due to the decorative process and fine tuning of the exhibit set up. She and other participants work alongside museum staff members to create a Christmas exhibit they hope people will keep coming back to. Though the exhibit is a lot of hard work, the results are definitely worth the effort. “Seeing the reactions of the children and the fami-
lies who come through is really wonderful. It’s absolutely worth it,” Hammett said. “When you see the people and they enjoy everything, that’s really nice, but my favorite part is that there are so many willing people who come to help set up and take down. It’s a lot of work, and it’s really nice having that support from the community,” Barbour said. If you’re looking for a fun family activity to take part in over the holidays, stop by the Christmas Doll and Train Exhibit. For more information about the Christmas Doll and Train Exhibit, call 301-769-2222 or visit the museum at 38370 Point Breeze Road in Coltons Point. contributing@countytimes.net
Photos by Emily Charles
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
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News
You Better Watch Out, I’m Telling You Why: Stay Off The Naughty List – Designate A Driver
This time of year, with all the holiday parties and festive occasions, many partygoers will be drinking. If you’re celebrating with alcohol this holiday season, local law enforcement agencies throughout southern Maryland share the same message: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. And local sales establishments agree it’s time for all drivers to get the message that drunk driving isn’t a victimless crime. You could kill yourself, someone else, or get a DUI and go to jail. On Wednesday, Dec. 10 just a few of the 100’s of licensees came together with traffic safety partners and advocates, brewers, and distributors throughout Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s County to promote and reinforce the use of designated drivers this holiday season. Everyone agreed the safest approach is to only drive sober. If you plan on drinking at a holiday party, bar, or restaurant, let someone else do the driving – a sober friend, a taxi or public transportation. Representatives from the following sales establishments were in attendance: Mully’s Brewery, ABD Liquors, Stoney’s Prince Frederick, Boston’s Pizza, The Liquor Store, Colonial Liquors, Big B
Liquors, Race-n-In, and ABC Liquors. Partners in traffic safety included College of Southern Maryland – Safe Communities, Liquor Control Board and Alcohol Beverage Board Representatives, Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, County Health Departments, Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse, Community Alcohol Coalition, State Highway Administration, Maryland State Police, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Natural Resources Police, Maryland Transportation Authority Police, La Plata Police Department, Bob Hall Distributing, and Guy Distributing. In a concerted effort to promote designated drivers, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office has partnered with sales establishments, wineries, brewers, and distributors to distribute wine/liquor bags with the message “Designate a Sober Driver”. In addition to reminding all drivers to drive sober, community partners are calling on everyone to be alert. If you see a drunk driver on the road, call the police right away—you could save a life. If someone you know is about to drive after
drinking, take their keys and help them get home safely. And if you are making arrangements to celebrate, include plans for a safe, sober ride before heading out. Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office extends great appreciation to Bob Hall Distributing and Guy Distributing for taking on the task of delivering the Designated Driver bags to licensees in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s County. Every year, more than 10,322 people
are killed by drunk drivers in America. In 2013, 152 people were killed and 2,351 were injured in impaired driving crashes in Maryland. One life lost is one too many. The designated driver program is part of Maryland’s Toward Zero Deaths (www.towardzerodeathsmd.com) goal of zero lives lost in motor vehicle crashes. Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration Press Release
Over 250,000 Southern Marylanders can’t be wrong! Your Online Community for Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties
www.somd.com
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
The Christmas Village: A New Family Tradition By Megan Conway Contributing Writer This past weekend, Dec. 19 to Dec. 21, Southpoint Church and a host of additional sponsors presented St. Mary’s County with “The Christmas Village: A New Family Tradition.” Hundreds of people packed St. Mary’s Fairgrounds in anticipation, even to the point of creating traffic. Young and old alike poured through the arched entryway, and the air was filled with the smells of hot chocolate and peppermint, the sounds of carols and happy chatter. In a way, it was our own little Winter
Wonderland. The fairgrounds itself was transformed. Lights encircled dozens of arranged evergreen trees, and festive decorations covered the buildings. Each had a specific name and theme. In such areas as the “Yuletide Market” and “Tinsel Towne Shop” vendors (most of them local) sold their goods. “Frosty Pavilion” was host to an “ice skating rink” where little ones had their first experiences on skates. In the “Jingle Rock Café,” village-goers could have a bite to eat while listening to performers play. Children found fun and crafts in the “Tiny Elves Workshop,” where they made such things as reindeer food and ornaments. And, of course, St. Mary’s County had its own personalized touches, with a tractor-pulled sleigh ride and the showing of farm animals and pony rides in “Santa’s Stables.” For many, The Christmas Village was an opportunity. Tatiana Denbo of Astrid’s Little Trunk (a handmade American Girl Doll Clothes business) remarked that setting up a table in the vendor areas was a “Good way to promote your business.” Dozens of local, small businesses were able to sell to and interact with the community, whether for-profit, or more charity-oriented (the SMAWC set up a corner, Operation Warrior Refuge held a
Wood Donates to Adult Recovery and Juvenile Drug Court
Local
News
spot). Said Sarah Smith of Blue Anchor Crafts, the Village gave businesses like hers a “lot of exposure.” Besides promoting local companies, the Christmas Village also gave a venue for the community to discover local talent. On Saturday night, the Margaret Brent Rhythm Club took center stage at the Village Outdoor Venue. After the performance ended to applause and cheers, Bonnie Beavan, the Club’s head, emphasized that the show had been “All them (the student members)- all natural talent…From the Rhythm Club to you, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!” The general atmosphere was wonderfully different than what may be expected in this day and age. For one thing, the sounds of conversation and laughter outweighed the glare of phone screens. There was something for every age group to participate in and enjoy, as shown by the general attitude of smiles and cheer. It was seemingly impossible to be gloomy, what with “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” resounding overhead, a mailbox only for letters to Santa Claus, volunteers dressed as elves, and a live nativity scene staged at dark. contributing@countytimes.net Photos by Megan Conway
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At a recent gathering, Del. John F. Wood, on behalf of the Friends of John F. Wood Jr., presented a donation of $1,000 to benefit the St. Mary’s County Adult Recovery and Juvenile Drug Court Programs. Del. Wood has been a strong supporter of both programs and serves on the Advisory Boards for both. Present to receive the donation from Del. Wood was Program Manager Pete Cucinotta and Circuit Court Judges Karen H. Abrams and Michael J. Stamm who preside over the Adult and Juvenile programs respectively. Submitted by the Juvenile Drug & Adult Recovery Court
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The County Times
Business
Fitzgerald Realty & Auctioneers Press Release
Defense contractor Holmes-Tucker International now offers customers the ability to produce enterprise architecture products in compliance with the Department of Defense Architecture Framework (DoDAF). Enterprise architecture creates models of complex systems using standardized graphics and data formats so that managers can share organized, consistent information and make decisions more effectively. Holmes-Tucker inaugurated the new architecture service, which includes storage in a secure data repository, in response to the shortage of trained personnel in programs that now have to meet DoDAF requirements. “DoD now mandates architecture frameworks for all major weapons and information technology system procurements, but there aren’t currently enough architects available to meet the demand,” said Adam Hammett, Holmes-Tucker’s DoDAF Architecture Program Manager. “That’s why we’ve created this capability for our clients.” Hammett, who has an MS in Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins University, is a Certified Enterprise Architect with a concentration in DoDAF. He received his certification from the FEAC Institute, the premier training and certification institution for enterprise architects. Hammett has drawn from Holmes-Tucker’s staff of experienced requirements managers and database developers to create an enterprise architecture capa-
From my Backyard to our Bay A St. Mary’s County Resident’s Guide to Improving Our Environment and Drinking Water
From My Backyard to Our Bay was first developed by the Baltimore County Soil Conservation District. From there, the booklet was given to each of the Soil Conservation Districts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed area for customization. If the 17.5 million residents who live in the watershed area of the Chesapeake Bay read this booklet, and took to heart its suggestions and best practices, the Chesapeake Bay would see a dramatic increase in health. Obtain a FREE copy of the booklet by going to the St. Mary’s River Watershed Association, smrwa.org and downloading it. The booklet is available at Wentworth Nursery in Charlotte Hall; Chicken Scratch in Park Hall; The Greenery in Hollywood; Good Earth Natural Food; and the St. Mary’s Soil Conservation District in Leonardtown. Join your local watershed association and make a difference for Our Bay!
smrwa.org
Household Best Management Practices
From
My B
acky
A Imp St. Mar roving y’s Our County Env iron Residen men t and t’s Gui Drin de to king Water
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to O
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are you Bay-Wise?
Instead of From My Backyard to Our Bay, this booklet could easily be titled From My Lifestyle to Our Bay. Earlier we mentioned ways we all can cut down on water use as a way to relieve the strain on the Bay. Many other things we all can do in our daily lives will have an effect on our Bay. Bay-Wise landscapes
Energy Conservation Scientists tell us that about 25% of the excess nutrients entering the Chesapeake Bay come from air pollution that is deposited on the land and then washed into the Bay’s tributaries. Where does that air pollution come from? The great majority of air pollution comes from motor vehicles and from coal-fired power plants that produce the electricity we all use. As the demand for energy increases in the United States along with population and development, it is important for individuals to begin conserving energy. Every household and every family can help reduce energy demand and the flow of pollutants to the Bay.
Tips for Conserving Energy • Turn off the lights. • Keep doors, windows, and drapes closed when running the air conditioning; keep drapes open during the day when running the heat.
• If your air conditioning unit is old, consider replacing it. A new energyefficient model could save up to 50% on your electricity bill. • Replace old heating/air units with high-efficiency geothermal systems. • Air dry dishes instead of using the drying cycle on your dishwasher. • Clean the lint filter in the clothes dryer after every load to improve circulation. • Consider buying a laptop for your next computer; laptops use less energy. • Plug appliances and electronics such as TVs and DVD players into powerstrips. When the appliance is not in use, turn off the power strip. Appliances still use energy when plugged in and not in use. Twenty percent of a typical American’s electric bill is from appliances. • Replace conventional thermostat with a programmable thermostat. In winter, reducing your thermostat from 72 to 68 degrees for 8 hours a day (when at work) can lower heating bill 10%. • Lighting accounts for 15% of house-
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Holmes-Tucker Now Offers Clients Architecture Production Capability
Fitzgerald Realty Supports Toys for Tots
Fitzgerald Realty & Auctioneers is one of the largest drop off locations for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Organization. At our annual Christmas party/Toys for Tots benefit this year, we asked all that attended to bring a toy to help in our efforts. The U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program collects new toys and distributes those toys as a message of hope to less fortunate children, this assists them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens. Many of our friends took the time to join us at the event. Pictured left to right: Todd Morgan, our county Commissioner of St. Mary's County, Chris Jey, Toys for Tots chairperson for St. Mary's County, Billy Fitzgerald, Broker and owner of Fitzgerald Realty & Auctioneers and John Wood Jr from the House of Delegates. We want to thank the community for all your support and to keep us in mind for next year's benefit.
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
minimize negative impacts on our waterways by using smarter lawn management techniques and gardening practices. The University of Maryland Extension Master Gardener Bay-Wise program in St. Mary’s County offers hands-on help with managing your landscape by providing information, a site visit, and landscape certifications. Our yardstick checklist is easy to understand and follow, and our team of trained Master Gardeners Where to get help with… can help guide you CONSERVING ENERGY through it while offering • U.S. Environmental Protection Agen- suggestions to improve both the appearance cy, epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/l and sustainability of your • Maryland Energy Administration, 410- landscape.
hold electricity use. Fluorescent bulbs reduce energy use by 75% and last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Since fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, dispose of them properly during biannual hazardous waste collection days. • Windows account for the majority of heat loss. Consider replacing old or inefficient windows with new energyefficient types. • Consult your local power company for information on online or in-home energy audits.
260-7655 or energy.maryland.gov/ facts/est.html
• SMECO, smeco.coop/yourEnergy. aspx
This is the seventeenth in a series of articles that Mary Ann Scott (maryann.scott58@yahoo.com) has adapted from From My Backyard to Our Bay in the hopes of increasing awareness of the powerful booklet that could do so much to help the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Look for the next article in next week’s County Times!
Call Now & Schedule a Visit!
301-475-4120 extension.umd.edu/baywise
Start a Movement in Your Neighborhood…Be the First to be Certified Bay-Wise!
bility second to none. The group employs industrystandard architecture software tools including IBM Rational Software Architect (RSA), IBM Rational DOORS, Vitech CORE 9, and Microsoft Visio. A particular strength of Holmes-Tucker’s architecture group is its years of experience managing requirements for NAVAIR weapons systems. “We can link requirements directly to functions and capabilities modeled in the architectural framework,” Hammett said. “That allows managers to see functional gaps that are not apparent from a simple list of requirements in a specification.” In an architectural framework, the graphical depiction of a complex system such as the Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) system shows the relationships and interactions among its component parts. Data, including requirements, underlies the graphical objects so that all information available on the system can be accessed in its entirety. Graphical depictions can be made interactive as well; changes made to one component of an architecturally modeled system will then show up as effects on others. “It’s much more than just PowerPoint diagrams,” Hammett said. “An architectural framework creates actionable data. That’s data you can make informed decisions with.” Holmes-Tucker International, Inc. Press Release
Precise Systems Awarded Navy Aviation Training Systems (PMA-205) Task Order Precise Systems, Inc. of Lexington Park, MD is pleased to announce that we have been awarded a SeaPort-e task order to provide program management support services to the Navy’s Program Manager for Aviation Training Systems (PMA-205). Our three partner companies are Wyle, Rollout Systems and Tekla Research. This is a five-year task order to support PMA205 in its procurement, development and fielding of training systems for aircraft operators and maintainers. Precise Systems, Inc. was awarded this task under a competitive small business set-aside solicitation issued by the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division at Orlando, FL. Precise Systems was founded in 1990 and is headquartered in Lexington Park, MD with additional offices in Havelock, NC and northern Virginia. Participation in the company’s Employee Stock Ownership Program is featured among the many benefits which Precise Systems employees enjoy. For more information about Precise Systems, please visit our website at www.goprecise.com. Precise Systems Press Release
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
Sports
A View From The
Bleachers Washington’s All-Star Giver
By Ronald N. Guy Jr. Contributing Writer Years ago a colleague convinced me that sports curses were real. His trek to Southern Maryland began on a different continent – Africa, his place of birth – and included a long stay in New York City where he became an avid Yankees fan (unfortunate but understandable). His story was fascinating, particularly as compared to my journey to the land of blue crabs and stuffed ham – a tale that starts and ends with a hearty “born here.” The improbable intersection of our lives occurred in 2003, a time when the Yankees were perennial contenders and the Boston Red Sox, their sworn enemy, hadn’t won a World Series since 1918, the year they sold Babe Ruth to the Yankees and spawned the “Curse of the Bambino.” As fate and a good story would have it, the Yanks and Sox played for the American League pennant in 2003. The teams split the first six games, but my buddy’s confidence never wavered. “Ronnie, listen, the Red Sox can’t win…they are cursed”, he would say. Sure enough, in the bottom of the 11th inning of Game 7, an unlikely hero – Aaron Boone – hit a series-clinching home run for the Yanks. It was the final chapter of Ruth’s alleged curse – the Red Sox won the World Series in 2004 - but it opened my mind to the possibility of dark forces enveloping a team or, in the case of D.C. sports, an entire region. D.C. is cursed. The evidence - the Nationals’ recent playoff failures, the spring collapses of the Capitals and the ‘Skins’ two-decade-long organizational death spiral - is overwhelming. I’m spooked. When optimistic forces – think Robert Griffin III, Stephen Strasburg and Alex Ovechkin – attempt to clear the gloom, I avoid acknowledgement for fear of provoking the gods and accelerating the return of hopeless suffering. It sounds nuts - unless you’re a fan too. But I’m going to risk it to talk about John Wall. Wall, 24, was drafted first overall by the Wizards – another lovable D.C. loser - in 2010. He was athleti-
cally gifted but lacked a consistent jump shot and often played out-ofcontrol. Four years later, there isn’t another point guard in the NBA I’d rather have. During a period (their early 20s) when Ovechkin was in playboy mode and toured D.C. in exotic sports cars and Griffin was selling athletic shoes and sandwiches and pushing his brand, Wall has, to his immense credit, quietly worked on his game far removed from the headlines and intoxicating distractions. He’s the rare elite talent with a blue-collar work ethic. He is a no frills gym rat and the consummate teammate. For a town mired in Griffin-drama, Wall is the antidote. Wall’s dedication and throwback approach is paying dividends. Through last Saturday, the Wizards are 19-6, second in the Eastern Conference, and Wall is fueling their ascension. The kid has grown into a bona fide star with an all-around game. Wall can score the basketball and play lock-down defense. But what I love most is his unselfishness on the offensive end. He currently ranks second in the league with 10.8 assists per game. With Wall, every possession is the season of giving. But Wall’s play didn’t convince me to acknowledge his greatness; Miyah Telemaque-Nelson did. Wall - again with no fanfare or grandstanding - befriended Miyah, a pediatric cancer patient last year and facilitated a meeting between her and Nicki Minaj. He wrote her name on his shoes before every game. It’s the sort of story that slips through the newsreel these days and, frankly, one I had missed until the heart-wrenching end. Miyah died on 8 December. She was six. Six. Later that night, an emotionally drained Wall wept during a post-game interview. The All-Star athlete exposed an All-Star heart. It was a side and a depth of Wall I had never seen. Yet despite Wall’s overwhelming loss, I couldn’t help but think of the joy he had given to a little girl whose time on Earth was far too short. It was an off-the-court assist of sorts…and his greatest to date. Giving > Receiving: John Wall the point guard…and the person…gets it. Send comments to RonaldGuyJr@ yahoo.com
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The County Times
Cops & Courts
Two in Custody for Street Robbery By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Police say they have arrested the second suspect in a pair of defendants alleged to have attacked a man in Lexington Park with a knife in an attempted robbery. Tyriel Gantt and Cepeda Hicks have both been charged with armed robbery and first-and-second degree assault and Hicks remains incarcerated in the county’s adult detention center. Gantt has since been released on bond. Police alleged that both Gantt and Hicks are also suspects in several other robberies here as well as being involved in other violent crimes, according to charging documents. Police say that on Dec. 10 the victim in the case reported being in Canopy Liquors on Great Mills Road ready to purchase liquor and noticed that both defendants were in the store with him. As he left the store and walked to nearby Sheriff Miedzinski Way both men followed him and soon accosted him; one of them had a knife and both demanded money. The victim refused, police said, and tried to flee but one of the defendants swung the knife at him and cut into his jacket at the victim’s left torso. When police checked the surveillance footage at the liquor store they identified Gantt and Hicks and found that they matched the description given by the victim, court papers stated. Gantt was found and arrested by St. Mary’s detectives Dec. 17 while Hicks was captured two days later.
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
10
Police Capture Man In Cross County Chase
guyleonard@countytimes.net
LAW OFFICE OF
DANIEL A. M. SLADE, L.L.C. LOKER BUILDING
41650 COURT HOUSE DRIVE, SUITE 301 • P.O. BOX 288 LEONARDTOWN, MARYLAND 20650
PHONE: 301-475-5150 • FAX: 301-475-6909
Photo by Guy Leonard
By Guy Leonard Staff Writer The man who led police on a car chase because they smelled marijuana emanating from his car during a traffic stop abandoned his two year old child in the vehicle after it crashed in a field and he fled from law officers on foot, police charging documents stated. Frank Richard Taitano, Jr. has since been released on bond with charges of possession of marijuana with more charges pending, according to police reports. The incident began Dec. 19 in Calvert County when a sheriff’s deputy noticed Taitano’s vehicle on southbound Route 4 without a front registration plate. The deputy followed Taitano over the Thomas Johnson Bridge into St. Mary’s and conducted a traffic stop; it was at this time that the deputy noticed the smell of burnt marijuana and a small child in the back seat of the car, police said. The deputy ordered Taitano to exit the vehicle repeatedly but he refused and when the deputy tried to stop Taitano from rolling up his driver side window Taitano allegedly began striking the deputy’s arm. Taitano then sped away, according to charging documents and the deputy pursued as he fled down Patuxent Boulevard and then on to Clearbrook Lane. Police said Taitano left the road and sped across a hilly field for almost half a mile where the vehicle went airborne and the
hood of the car flew back and smashed the front windshield. The vehicle finally came to a stop about 15 feet from the edge of cliff that bordered the Patuxent River, police said. Taitano exited the vehicle, retrieved a four-foot long object from the trunk and fled on foot and into a residence. Law officers were able to get Taitano’s female child out of the vehicle, they said. While deputies from Calvert and St. Mary’s put up a perimeter around the house they got calls from neighbors across a nearby creek that someone matching Taitano’s description was walking in the woods near their backyards. Police moved to cut Taitano off as he moved to Deer Crossing Lane on foot where he was eventually apprehended, according to charging documents. Taitano told police that he ran because he had marijuana in the car — he said that was a bag filled with marijuana — put police were unable to find it, charging documents stated. Police said the object appeared to be a long gun. When they searched Taitano’s car they found marijuana residue and bags containing one ounce of marijuana each; they also found a .40-caliber cartridge. Charges Taitano could be facing in St. Mary’s include fleeing and alluding police as well as child abuse, child neglect, child abandonment and assaulting a police officer. guyleonard@countytimes.net
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
Letters to the New Year’s Resolution from The Skin Cancer Foundation: DON’T TAN Editor
The new year is around the corner, and with it comes the opportunity to start fresh and ditch unhealthy habits. The Skin Cancer Foundation encourages everyone to resolve to stop tanning in the New Year. Avoiding tanning is more important than ever since tanning bed use, particularly among young people, is an alarmingly widespread behavior- in the U.S., over 35 percent of adults and 55 percent of college students have tanned indoors.1 This anti-tanning message is particularly relevant for college students. Millions of college students nationwide have immediate access to indoor tanning salons. According to a recent study, nearly half of the nation's top colleges offer indoor tanning facilities on or near campus 2 despite the definitive link between indoor tanning and the development of skin cancer.
"While indoor tanning may seem like an easy way to achieve glowing skin, it comes with consequences," said Perry Robins, MD, President of The Skin Cancer Foundation. "It causes permanent damage and plays a significant role in the development of skin cancer, so getting in a tanning bed can put your life in danger." UV radiation, both from the sun and through using a tanning bed, is directly linked to skin cancer-just one indoor tanning session before the age of 35 increases melanoma risk by 75 percent. One session also increases the risk of the basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma by 29 percent and 67 percent, respectively. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common forms of skin cancer. Whether "laying out" or visiting a tanning salon, there is no such thing as safe tan. In addition to in-
Fire Safety is the Main Ingredient in All Holiday Meals The kitchen is the heart of every home and safety must be adhered to when preparing the family feast. During all of your holiday celebrations, a lot of activities are going on and friends and family are in the home. “Holidays are a time of celebration. Please follow these simple guidelines to ensure a fire safe holiday meal,” states Maryland State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci. • Make sure your smoke alarms are working properly by testing them. Additionally, ensure your guests are aware of all available exits if a fire would occur and have them meet at a designated location outside. • The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food. • Establish: A “Kids & Pets Free Zone” around any area where hot foods or drinks are prepared. Have activities that keep kids out of the kitchen during this busy time. Provide games, puzzles, books, etc. outside of the kitchen to keep them busy. Kids can get involved with preparations with recipes that can be made outside of the kitchen. Just in case, ensure you turn handles inward on the stove and countertop to avoid spills. • Be alert while cooking; avoid consuming any alcoholic beverages while preparing the meal. • Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it has cooled. • Keep anything combustible - oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, etc. away from the stovetop. • Eliminate clutter in the kitchen. A clean work area allows for better efficiency and less chanc-
es for mishaps. • Keep matches and lighters out of reach of curious children’s hands. Place them out of reach, preferably in a locked cabinet or drawer. • Do not leave lit candles unattended or in places where they could be knocked over by children or pets.
Turkey Fryer Safety • Many turkey fryer appliances can be easily tipped over, allowing for hot oil spillage. Ensure you place them on a hard, level and non-combustible outdoor surface. • Do not place a turkey fryer under an overhang or temporary roof. A flare up can easily ignite materials above the appliance. Turn off the burner while placing the turkey inside the pot of hot oil. • Partially frozen turkeys can cause a spill over and cause a flare up. Thoroughly thaw the turkey before cooking. • Constantly monitor the temperature of the oil. It can easily reach temperatures to the point of combustion. • Be careful not to overfill the fryer. Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for proper filling levels. • The handles and lid will get dangerously hot. Use well insulated potholders or oven mitts. • Never leave the fryer unattended while cooking. Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher on hand. Do not use water in an attempt to extinguish a grease fire. Following these simple guidelines for fire and life safety, will help to ensure a tragedy free holiday meal. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday season! Maryland State Fire Marshal Press Release
creasing skin cancer risk, tanning leads to premature skin aging, including wrinkles, leathery skin and age spots. The Skin Cancer Foundation advocates embracing one's natural skin tone and its Go With Your Own Glow™ campaign encourages women to love and protect their skin, whatever its natural hue. However, those who can't resist the bronzed look but won't sacrifice their health to achieve it should consider sunless UV-free tanners. They are available in many different formulations, including creams, lotions, gels, pump sprays, aerosols and wipes. Submitted by The Skin Cancer Foundation.
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF Olafur Hannes Halfdanarson FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO Hannes Olafur Hulduson In the Circuit Court for St. Mary’s County, Maryland Case No.: 18-C-14-1812 The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which he seeks to change his name from Olafur Hannes Halfdanarson to Hannes Olafur Hulduson. The petitioner is seeking a name change for the following reason: I changed my name in Iceland in 1999 and want my name to reflect that change. Any person may file an objection to the Petition on or before the 20th day of January, 2015. 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
LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD To Submit a Letter to the Editor, Email your letter to angiekalnasy@countytimes.net or mail to: The County Times P.O. Box 250 • Hollywood, MD 20636
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
12
Education
Southern Maryland Chooses CSM on #GivingTuesday
College Raises $25,897 for Scholarships, Programs The season of giving kicked off with unselfishness as thousands of donors worldwide supported nonprofit efforts on the third annual #GivingTuesday. In Southern Maryland, many of the community givers doubled their impact by supporting the College of Southern Maryland student scholarships and programs, raising $25,897 during the 24hour online event. “We are truly humbled by the generosity and support of our faculty, staff, friends and community. There were literally thousands of charitable organizations for people to support on #GivingTuesday, and the fact that our community continues to choose CSM to make their impact is overwhelming. For that we are deeply grateful,” said CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried. #GivingTuesday had 1,900 nonprofits participate on Razoo, CSM’s choice of online giving platforms, raising $1,775,511 in total during the day. CSM was among the top participating nonprofit organizations with Razoo, ranking 21st, among nonprofits. Because the college had the most gifts during the last hour of the day, CSM was also recognized with the $1,000 prize by Razoo, “We have amazing alumni, employees and a giving community who continue to choose CSM in giving and making an impact on access, affordability and achievement for our students,” said Vice President of Advancement Michelle Goodwin. “Our goal was $30,000, and with the phenomenal support of our supporters we raised $25,897. What an investment today to transform the futures of our students tomorrow,” said CSM Foundation Chair Christine Rush. The donations to CSM were given to support scholarships in Calvert,
#Unselfies were the trend on the third annual #GivingTuesday. CSM students joined people worldwide to show their support of the 24-hour online giving event by taking a picture, tagging it #unselfie and #GivingTuesday, and then sharing it on social media.
Charles and St. Mary’s counties as well as programs in the arts, athletics, health sciences or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Supporting #GivingTuesday with matching scholarship funds were the Florence B. Trueman Scholarship Fund in Calvert County, the Greater Waldorf Jaycees Foundation Scholarship Fund in Charles County and the Chiaramonte Hope Scholarship Fund in St. Mary’s County. Additionally, the CSM Foundation has matched donations given toward arts, athletics, health sciences, Career Starters Scholarships and STEM. Sponsors for the event provided power hour prizes. These included a wellness and fitness package won by Holly Wathen of Hollywood provided by the CSM Wellness, Fitness and Aquat-
ics, and a GoPro Camera won by Timothy Johnson of Leonardtown provided by CSM College Store. Val Nyce of Mt. Victoria won a sports package featuring a golf outing by Swan Point Yacht and County Club and University of Maryland men’s lacrosse tickets by parents of a UMD Men’s Lacrosse player. A holiday dinner for four from McKay’s Food Stores was won by F. Ellsworth Geib Jr. of Newburg. A holiday package featuring Solomons Business Association members went to Sonja Greenawalt of La Plata winning dinner at Kingfishers Seafood Bar and Grill and a hotel stay at Holiday Inn Solomons, Jill RussoDowney of Accokeek winning a family pack to Annmarie Garden and cruise from McNelis Realty, and Dorothy Hill of Dunkirk winning a river cruise on the
Throughout #GivingTuesday, scholarship recipients at the College of Southern Maryland made phone calls to thank those who donated funds totaling $25,897 to CSM during the 24-hour online giving day. CSM Development Coordinator Erika Abell, standing, listens in on Sarah Adeyanju’s call to a donor as Alexander Albrittain writes an #Unselfie message.
Wm. B. Tennison and behind-the-scenes tour with Calvert Marine Museum. For information on #GivingTuesday, visit http://www.givingtuesday. org/. Donations are still being accepted for #GivingTuesday, visit www.csmd. edu/Foundation. Photos from the day are available to view at http://csmphoto. zenfolio.com/givetuesday. College of Southern Maryland Press Release
CSM Selected as a Top School for Veterans Military Advanced Education’s 2015 Guide Recognizes CSM
The College of Southern Maryland has been awarded the designation of a Top School in the Military Advanced Education (MAE) 2015 Guide to Colleges and Universities which measures best practices in military and veteran education. “We are honored to be recognized again as an institution that goes out of its way to support the men and women who have served our country. By providing advising and support services to our veteran students, they are able to access the information they need to take full advantage of their benefits and to be successful in their academic pursuits,” said CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried. CSM was recently designated as a 2015 Military Friendly® School by Victory Media for being among the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools in the country that are doing the most to embrace military students, and to dedicate resources to ensure their success in the classroom and after graduation. “As one of the largest veteran-serving colleges or universities within Maryland, CSM is proud to serve more than 830 military students, veterans and their dependents each year,” said Chris Zimmermann, director of the college’s financial assis-
tance department which oversees its veteran benefits office. The Guide presents results of a questionnaire of the military-supportive policies enacted at more than 600 institutions including private, public, for-profit, not-forprofit, four-year and two-year colleges and was released in the December issue of MAE. It is available online at www.mae-kmi.com. This year, institutes were evaluated on their military culture, financial aid, flexibility, on-campus support and online support services. Each school’s performance rating by category is represented by an easy-to-recognize dashboard to enable prospective students to quickly target schools that follow best practices in military education, and then put these in context with other academic or career considerations. For information on using veterans benefits and services at CSM, visit www. csmd.edu/veterans\. For information on CSM, visit www.csmd.edu. College of Southern Maryland Press Release
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
Education
SMR Computer Animation Class Takes Second in University Competition Congratulations to the students in Mrs. Paula McGuigan’s Computer Animation class at St. Mary’s Ryken (SMR). They had only five days to complete three programs for Mercer University’s Alice Programming Competition. The students regularly work in the “Scratch” and “Alice” programming languages, but not with the time pressure the contest demanded. . Nudged out of first place by only 31 points, the students came in second, scoring 428 out of a total of 600 possible points. “This competition showcased the hard work that the students put forward in a short period of time,” said Mrs. McGuigan, a member of the SMR computer sciences faculty. “I am very proud of them. Their second place finish in a national event is a testament to their dedication and teamwork.” The competition is hosted by the Department of Computer Science at Mercer University, which established the activity to promote programming logic in high schools and middle schools. Alice is a free, educational software system that teaches students computer programming in a 3-D environment. The Computer Animation class introduces students to object-oriented computer programming and logical thinking. SMR is a college preparatory high school sponsored by the Xaverian Brothers. Each year, approximately 99% of graduates go on to college and the Class of 2014 earned $12.7 million in scholarships. St. Mary’s Ryken Press Release
Back row (from the left): Alex Lasoski; Robert Hanson; and Dylan Adams Seated (from the left): Brad Hoover; and Anthony Wallace
The Holiday Season Kicked Off With A Generous Gift To Three Local Robotics Teams Thanks to the generosity of Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC), three St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) robotics programs received funding just in time to prepare for the 2015 competition. Piney Point Elementary, Ridge Elementary, and Spring Ridge Middle School robotics teams will each receive a portion of a $4,000 grant to assist with equipment purchase and competition fees. Scott Stewart, Corporate Lead Executive for NGC, Naval Air Systems Command Patuxent River, presented the $4,000 check to the SMCPS at the November 25th Board of Education meeting. “Northrop Grumman is committed to supporting educational initiatives and is pleased to sponsor these programs. Robotics is a great tool for students to explore all areas of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and help students develop interest in STEM related fields” said Stewart. Southern Maryland robotics programs have experienced steady growth over the past few years. Bonnie Green, Executive Director of The Patuxent Partnership said, “We are encouraged to see the expansion of robotics programs, particularly in schools which have not previously participated. However, as these programs grow, so does the need for community support and sponsorship. We are proud to have members such as Northrop Grumman actively support these educational initiatives. We see great value in these programs and hope other community leaders will see the value and join in as well.” Cain Sauer, Robotics Coach at Ridge Elementary, said the number of students interested in being on the team far exceeds the school’s resources. The Ridge team was created this year following a donation of a robot kit and competition table from The Patuxent Partnership. “We didn’t expect to have so many interested students. As a new team, we did not have the funds
necessary to buy all the equipment needed. Thanks to Northrop Grumman’s donation, we will be able to buy two additional robot kits to accommodate all of our students. It really is an investment in our future, not only as a team, but as a community” said Sauer. In addition to the three robotics programs, Northrop Grumman also provided funding for a new Science and Engineering Fair Mentorship program for local high school students. This pilot program was developed by two NAVAIR/NAWCAD physicists and
provides mentorship to participants as they prepare projects for regional and state competitions. To learn more about Northrop Grumman Corporation, visit www.northropgrumman.com To learn more about the robotics program in Southern Maryland, please contact Bernice Brezina at BerniceB@csmd.edu The Patuxent Partnership Press Release
Feature Story
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
14
Fire Departments, Rescue Squads Renew Calls for Members
By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Public safety officials say that in a county of about 110,000 people only about 1,300 of them have volunteered to serve in either fire companies or rescue squads. As another year comes to a close, volunteer fire and rescue organizations that have served St. Mary’s for decades are calling once again for new volunteers to solve a chronic manpower shortage. Kelly Bell, the volunteer recruiter with the county’s Department of Public Safety and Information Technology, said a number of factors contribute to the problem but the main issue is that potential volunteers believe it would take too much out of already busy schedules. “It’s time, that’s the main concern,” Bell said. “But fire departments and rescue squads, they’re flexible with members’ schedules, it’s not as time intensive as some people think. “But the need is great. During the daytime it is a strain for volunteers.” The training to become either a firefighter or an emergency medical technician is free and for those young enough to pursue a career in either field it is a beneficial early start. Many volunteer groups even provide transportation to the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute located in College Park for newly accepted volunteers to get their training. Other benefits are there too, including unofficial ones like discounts from local stores and even free savings accounts and some local banks when they see that customers are volunteers emergency services personnel, said Jessica Vallandingham, chief at the Mechanicsville Volunteer Rescue Squad. The county even offers a quasi-retirement package for volunteers who have a certain length of service, but even with these incentives it is not enough to bring in enough volunteers, she said.
The end result is that it becomes harder to answer critical emergency calls when someone’s life is in danger. “It makes it harder to get an ambulance out when someone calls 911,” Vallandingham said. “We can’t help our community when there’s a need.” Just training to become an emergency medical technician provided a valuable frontline service in saving lives when seconds counted, she said. “I’m a paramedic but I wouldn’t be where I am without the EMT [basic] course,” Vallandingham said. “An EMT can handle anything minor or anything major.” In the fire service they have many of the same problems, said Joe Gould, chief at the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department. Of the 125 people that are on the volunteer rolls at his unit only about 30 to 40 are actually active enough to ensure they can fight fires. “That means it’s very difficult to get fire trucks on the road,” Gould said. “It’s a pretty stark contrast.” The allure of “going into a burning building when others are running out” was a strong one he said but it was just a small part of the actual mission at a volunteer fire hall. “Putting out fires is only about 15 percent of what we do, the other 85 percent is support work like training, maintenance and making sure the equipment is up to fighting fires,” Gould said. “It’s time consuming, there’s no doubt about it.” At the rate of volunteerism they are struggling with, his fire company cannot afford to turn many people away with even the faintest inkling of wanting to help. “We don’t have an end cap on our organization,” Gould said. “We’ll take anybody and everybody who wants to join.” Gerald Gardiner, emergency manager with the county’s public safety department, said the county’s burgeoning population of new residents often means they
Photos by Frank Marquart
don’t know that the fire and rescue service is 100 percent volunteer. “That is an issue,” Gardiner said. “You only have a small pool of people with the interest to do it. “And not everybody is capable… they see blood and they pass out.” But the state offers training to deal
with the stress of difficult situations, he said, including counseling for members who have encountered traumas. Nobody is alone in the fire and rescue services, he said. guyleonard@countytimes.net
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
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The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
16
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ART, SHOPPING and FUN: GOOD EARTH NATURAL FOOD COMPANY 41675 Park Avenue Come meet Alysha on January 2nd from 5 pm until 8 pm. She will be representing Nordic Naturals, the #1 Selling Fish Oil in the United States. Come sample their new products and take advantage of our monthly sales promotion during Alysha’s visit. CAUGHT MY EYE 22760 Washington Street Start the New Year with a new look for your home and you! You’ll find vintage furniture and small finds with big markdowns this First Friday. Then add a little spice to your workday wardrobe with authentic Indian fashions for yourself. OPAL FINE ART, Gallery and Gifts 41625 Park Avenue Join us at Opal Art Gallery & Gifts for the conclusion of our Holiday Show on First Friday. Now treat yourself and shop our gallery for limited edition and one-of-a-kind works of art for something special, through January 3rd. FENWICK STREET USED BOOKS & MUSIC 41655A Fenwick Street Browse the bookstore and find those books you always wanted to read. Peruse the music and find your old favorites.
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
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The County Times
Obituaries Charlene Antionette (Queen) Miles, 57 Charlene Antionette (Queen) Miles , affectionately known as “Char Char” by her nieces, was born on March 2, 1957 to the late Genevieve Queen and Charles Bowman, Sr. and raised by Robert “Knute” Brooks. On Wednesday, Dec. 17, the Lord sent his angels to bring Charlene home to him in Heaven. She was born and raised in Leonardtown, Md. She attended Leonardtown Elementary and Chopticon High School, graduating from high school in 1976. Shortly thereafter, she began working. She held various jobs throughout her life time. Charlene worked for St. Mary’s County Public Schools, Bailey’s Restaurant, St. Mary’s Nursing Center and St. Mary’s Hospital. While working at the hospital, she became ill and was not able to work anymore. During her time off, she began babysitting her niece, Erica and nephew, Deshawn. Anyone that knows Charlene, knew Deshawn was her heart and soul. He was the child she didn’t have. There was nothing she would not do for him. She would climb the highest mountain to make sure he was happy. Until she became ill, Deshawn knew he could always count on his Aunt Charlene for anything. She would do without for his sake. That’s how much she loved him. If no one else could bring a smile to her face, he could. Charlene enjoyed dancing, playing cards, going to yard sales and casinos. Charlene was a loving daughter, loving wife, loving sister, loving aunt and most of all a loving friend. She will be solely missed but her love showered upon us all will remain in our hearts forever. Let her love set the example of how we should live as people. On July 16, 1988, Charlene married the love of her life, Clarence (Pine) Miles. Until the day she died, she called him faithfully to ask him to come visit her and bring her a soda. She had to have her “Pine” if nothing else. He did his darndest to make her
Wednesday, December 24, 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.
happy. Charlene was predeceased in death by her parents, maternal and paternal grandparents, sisters, Darlene Queen and Mildred “Millie” Forbes; niece, Serena Queen; mother-in-law, Elizabeth Miles; father-inlaw, John Miles; brothers-in-law, Lawrence, Leonard and William Miles and sisters-inlaw, Mary Ann Taylor, Cecelia Miles and Evelyn Wilson. To cherish her loving memory, Charlene leaves her husband, Clarence (Pine) Miles; sisters, Brenda and Claudia Queen, Agnes “Dina” Plater, Andrea “Vanessa” Bowman, Carolyn Young and Catherine “Gina” Goldring (Kevin); brothers, Claude Queen, Sr., Charles, Jr., John and Kenneth Bowman; brothers-in-law, John, Joseph Francis, Thomas (Audrey), Raymond (Brenda), David and Joseph Thomas Miles and Louis Forbes, Jr.; sisters-in-law, Margaret Bonds, Marie Davis, Eleanor Moldan and Ann Miles; nieces, Tameca , Ashley, Siobhan, Adriana (Audi), Erica, Jasmine and Kayla; nephews, Claude, Jr., Deshawn, Darryl, Brandon, Phillip and Elijah; aunts, Carrie Mae Somerville, Mary Cecelia Caldwell, Dorothy Ann (Henderson) Blackwell and Ada Brooks; uncle, Phillip Brooks; Goddaughter, Dianne Swales; stepchildren, Johnny and Terry Miles; her hairdresser, Jackie Queen and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. “For his anger endureth but a moment, in his favour is life, weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. Family and friends will unite on Friday, Dec. 26, for visitation at 10 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Aloysius Church, Leonardtown, Md. Interment to follow at Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, Md. Arrangements by Briscoe-Tonic Funeral Home.
Rosalie Theresa Gibbons, 83 Rosalie Theresa Gibbons, 83, of Leonardtown, Md. passed away on Dec. 18, at Hospice House of St. Mary’s. Born July 31, 1931, in Solomons, Md., she was the daughter of the late Nelson Ellsworth and Agnes V. Parks Lusby.
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She lovingly dedicated her life to motherhood, devoting her time to raising her children and being a wonderful homemaker. She cherished spending time with her family and grandchildren. She had an enormous, kind, giving heart to not only her family but to everyone. She touched the lives of all that knew her. Rosalie is survived by her children, Deborah Hyde of California, Md., Charles Gibbons of California, Md., Toni FosterArnold of Leonardtown, Md., Martin Gibbons of Lusby, Md. and Michael Gibbons of Ridge, Md.; her 14 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren; and her siblings, Albert Lusby of Tallulah, La., Peggy Shenton of Solomons, Md. In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by her brothers Ronald and Bernard Lusby. Family will receive friends on Sunday, Dec. 21, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Brinsfield Funeral Home, with prayers and remembrances at 4 p.m. with Fr. David Beaubein officiating. Interment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, Md. 20650. Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements provided by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.
Robert Timothy “Timmy” Gass, Sr., 63 Robert Timothy “Timmy” Gass, Sr., 63, of Ridge, Md., died on Dec. 11, at MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. Born on April 11, 1951, in Leonardtown, Md., he is the son of John Howard Gass of Abell, Md. and the late Agnes Owens Gass. On May 2, 1987, Timmy married his beloved wife, Pamela Gay Gass in Leonardtown, Md. Together, they celebrated 27 wonderful years together. He has been a waterman for the majority of his life. He enjoyed fishing, crabbing and hulling oysters. He found being on his boat relaxing. He also enjoyed watching wrestling, the Washington Redskins, and NASCAR. However, his family was his pride and joy, especially his grandchildren. In addition to his father and wife, Robert is survived by his children, John Gass (Amanda) of California, Md., Angel Gass-Didsbury of St. Inigoes, Md., Bobby Gass of Ind., and Jay Gass of S. C.; and his grandchildren, Natalie Gass and Alex Gass of California, Md. In addition to his mother, he is preceded in death by his sister, Tracey Lynn Gass. Family received friends for Robert’s Life Celebration on Thursday, Dec. 18, from 5 to 8 p.m., with prayers at 7 p.m., at Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, Md. 20650. A Funeral Service was celebrated by Pastor Tiffany Kromer on Friday, Dec. 19, at 10 a.m. at Brinsfield Funeral Home. Interment will follow at
Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Lexington Park, Md. Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.
Margaret Susan “Peggy” Owens, 56 Margaret Susan “Peggy” Owens, 56, of Leonardtown, Md., died on Dec. 14, at her residence surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 15, 1958, in Leonardtown, Md., she is the daughter of the late Charles Louis “Pete” Trossbach and Margaret Almedia Delozier Trossbach. Peggy graduated from Great Mills High School in 1976. On Jan. 7, 1977, she married her beloved husband, James “Leroy” Owens, Sr. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Ridge, Md. Together they celebrated 37 wonderful years together. She ran an in home day care, where she loved many children for over 25 years. She enjoyed making crafts, particularly of wood and canvas. She made many yard ornaments for the holidays. She also enjoyed working in her flower beds, camping with her husband and friends, and visiting her friend in Florida. However, her biggest love was for her family whom she loved to spend her time with, especially her grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Peggy is survived by her children, James “Leroy” Owens, Jr. (Tracy) of St. Inigoes, Md. and Stacey Lee Curie (Robert) of Leonardtown, Md.; her siblings, Linda Biscoe (Jim) of Dameron, Md., Joan Dominiak (Doug) of Dameron, Md., Mike Trossbach (Linda) of Piney Point, Md., Paul Trossbach (Michelle) of Valley Lee, Md., Jim Trossbach of Idaho, Carol Trossbach of Ridge, Md., Kathy Wheeler (Walter) of Lexington Park, Md., and Janet Rhodes (Brian) of California, Md.; her grandchildren, Michael Owens, Kelly Boswell, Kamran Swales and Jase Currie; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family. Family received friends on Wednesday, Dec. 17 from 5 to 8 p.m., with prayers at 7 p.m., at Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, Md. 20650. A Funeral Service was held on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 11a.m. at Brinsfield Funeral Home. Interment followed at Charles Memorial Gardens. Serving as pallbearers will be Johnathan Lachkovic, James Wheeler, Jr., Chris Wheeler, Mathew Ridgell, Willie Ridgell, and Andy Trossbach. Memorial Contributions may be made to Second District Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squads, P.O. Box 1, Valley Lee, Md. 20692 and Ridge Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 520, Ridge, Md. 20680. Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.
19
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
Announcin Issued Marriage Applications for October 2014 October 1, 2014
October 27, 2014
Sean Masami Hubbard 29 Lexington Park, Md Seneca Nicol Smollek 22 California, Md
Amber Marie Clements 25 Great Mills, Md Dorian Allen Queener 27 Great Mills, Md
Ashleigh Marie Wilkinson 26 Hollywood, Md Eric Thomas Maines 30 Hollywood, Md
Steven Andrew Schwarts 24 King George, Va Kelsey Marie Langley 23 King George, Va
Grace Katherine Bogdan 27 Salinas, Ca Christopher William Gordon 30 Salinas, Ca
October 20, 2014
Mark Joseph Bak 36 Lexington Park, Md Christa Van Der Lelij 25 Lexington Park, Md
October 8, 2014
Tyson Marie Stoops 29 Leonardtown, Md Matthew Sean Pleisse 24 Leonardtown, Md
Paul Michael Biekert 41 Lexington Park, Md Shelley Lynn Pospisil 37 Lexington Park, Md
Margaret Ann Koehler 35 Great Mills, Md Zeberiah Finn 34 Great Mills, Md
Alison Lacey Brooks 31 Mechanicsville, Md Jeffrey Kyle Morgan 37 Mechanicsville, Md
Laura Latrell Patton 40 Lexington Park, Md Warren Albert Gaskiins 50 Lexington Park, Md
October 9, 2014
October 22, 2014
October 28, 2014
Michelle Lynn Hardy 27 Mechanicsville, Md Ashley Nicole Sealy 28 Mechanicsville, Md
Christopher William Moore, Jr., Patuxent River, Md Ashley Marie Kidwell 21 Thorofare, Nj
Andrew H Fisher 23 Mechanicsville, Md Ruth Ann Stoltzfus 20 Mechanicsville, Md
Jackie Marie Nelson 21 Lexington Park, Md Donald Robert West 20 Lexington Park, Md
Kaitlin Jo Cashman 24 Lexington Park, Md Conrad Walter Jutras, III 27 Lexington Park, Md
Jacob Levi Swarey 21 Mechanicsville, Md Nancy E Fisher 19 Mechanicsville, Md
October 14, 2014
October 23, 2014
October 29, 2014
John Day Zombory 24 Lexington Park, Md Antonio Stefanov Katsarov 20 Lexington Park, Md
Tina Lynne Dean 41 Great Mills, Md John Wesley Lonkert, IV 34 Great Mills, Md
Christ Fisher Kurtz 21 Mechanicsville, Md Mary F Hertzler 20 Mechanicsville, Md
Kayla Mae Stommel 27 Mechanicsville, Md Bradley William Hayden 28 Mechanicsville, Md
October 6, 2014
Kristine Kelli Smith 38 Mechanicsville, Md James Gilbert Adkins, Jr, 44 Mechanicsville, Md
Rufus E Stoltzfus 323 Mechanicsville, Md Suzanne J Hertzler 20 Mechanicsville, Md
October 30, 2014
October 16, 2014
Kayla Msarie Buckland 23 Lexington Park, Md Ryan Michael Lankford 28 Mechanicsville, Md
Laura Lyn Bygler 49 Lexington Park, Md James Daniel Seifert 22 Lexington Park, Md Angel Blue Turner 27 Lusby, Md Robert Aloysius Bianchi 25 California, Md
October 2, 2014 Nathaniel Adrian Vickers 35 Mechanicsville, Md Jaime Lynn Derhammer 37 Mechanicsville, Md
October 3, 2014 John Morelan Gyorda 29 Leonardtown, Md Megan Elizabeth Lynch 28 Leonardtown, Md Sarah Danielle Melvin 18 Lexington Park, Md Bradley Devin Diemer 21 Lexington Park, Md Krista Nichole Pitts 27 Indian Head, Md Christopher Michael Henry 27 Indian Head, Md
Brian Christopher Justin 33 Alexandria, Va Chandell Lee Kaitchuck 32 St. Leonard, Md Kellie Ann Norris 33 Mechanicsville, Md Adam James Hughson 33 Mechanicsville, Md
Alice Marianne Pratt 22 Lexington Park, Md Tyler Collin Walton 20 San Antonio, Tx
Bryan Anthony Crawford 24 Lothian, Md Amber Leigh Phillips 24 Lothian, Md
Christopher Matthew Neal 21 Lexington Park, Md Jennifer Lynn Hoffman 20 Great Mills, Md William Francis Hewitt, Jr., 23 Callaway, Md Richard Scott Procel 23 Quantico, Va
Call The County Times to Place an Engagement Announcement - It’s Free!
301-373-4125
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
20
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The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
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In Our Community
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
22
Great Gospel – Great News A Story – A Blessing
Congratulations to Wilbur Johnson and all members of the Gospel Persuaders who only by God’s Blessing received an Invitation from The White House to perform there on Dec. 21 for the Holiday Celebration. Wilbur Johnson is a native of St. Mary’s County, Maryland born and raised in a quiet little laid back town known as Piney Point, Md. Piney Point is mostly recognized as a small quiet spirited town where people go to work, raise a garden, go fishing, go crabbing, and go to church. Not a lot of activities. Wilbur is still an active member of the Church he grew up in known as St. Luke Union American Methodist Episcopal Church of Piney Point, Md. where the Rev. Andrew Fulton is the Senior Pastor and First Lady Sis. Kim Fulton, Minister of Music. Wilbur started his music career as a teenager right home in Piney Point, Md. At the age of 15 he started and organized a group known as the Dream Notes which became very popular. This group began to travel with the Late Richard Portee and would appear on his radio
show. Later, Wilbur took a job as lead singer for a band known as The Starliners, owned and operated by the late Dolph Robinson of Piney Point, Md. He sang with them for several years. Wilbur then joined a gospel group known now as the New Briscoe Brothers. After working with the Briscoe Brothers for several years, Wilbur decided to start his own gospel group. In May of 1994, The Gospel Persuaders were born. God has really blessed this Ministry. They have never had a down year. They have been able to continue singing the songs of Zion for almost 21 years. The members of The Gospel Persuaders are Wilbur R. Johnson, CEO, Writer and Producer; Tempest Thomas (Storm), Bass Guitarist, Assistant Manager and Music Director; Malinda Johnson, Secretary, Lead/Background Vocalist; Iris Pierce, Lead/Background Vocalist; Dorothy Gallman, Lead/Background Vocalist; Toni Foster, Background Vocalist; James Tenant, Background Vocalist; Darryl Jones, Saxophonist; Gregory Gibson, Guitarist; and Thomas Brawner,
Drummer. Wilbur is very grateful for all of the people who helped to make The Gospel Persuaders a success: Shurfine Gospel Record Company, Benson, N.C.; BMI Publishing Co., New York City, N.Y.; Select-O-Hits, Memphis, Tenn. - Distributor; Central South, Nashville, Tenn. - Distributor. Mr. Johnson acknowledges that
Important Deadlines Set for Maryland Conservation Programs
Maryland farmers and forest land owners can now apply for assistance to protect the health and productivity of their land under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Agricultural Management Program (AMA) administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). EQIP is one of USDA’s most popular Farm Bill conservation programs. Under this program, NRCS offers technical and financial assistance to plan and install conservation practices on cropland, pastureland and nonindustrial private forestland. In 2014, NRCS provided more than $10 million in EQIP contracts to help Maryland farmers improve water quality, soil quality and wildlife habitat. In 2015, Maryland NRCS will offer AMA to help with water management and irrigation systems and seasonal high tunnels. Farmers can sign up for conservation programs throughout the year, but funding selections are made at specific times. The FY15 cutoff dates are January 16 and March 20. Tom Morgart, NRCS Maryland Assistant State Conservationist for Programs, noted it is important for farmers to get program applications in early to be eligible for limited funding. “Conservation plans must be developed for the area that is included in an EQIP or AMA contract,” he said. “When farmers develop a complete conservation plan for their farm, it speeds up the application process and allows for conservation to be applied in a strategic manner.”
Eligible producers who sign up for the program may receive a payment based on the statewide average cost for installing planned conservation practices. Socially disadvantaged, limited resource and beginning farmers and ranchers are eligible for a higher payment rate. Veteran farmers who are also beginning farmers and socially disadvantaged farmers receive the higher payment rate. Special pools are also available for On-Farm Energy, Organic and Seasonal High Tunnel conservation practices, as well as a number of landscape-based initiatives. All offer technical and financial assistance through the EQIP program. Wildlife concerns are included in the EQIP Program and a minimum of five percent of the available EQIP funding is used for wildlife purposes. Landowners interested in establishing wildlife practices or pollinator habitat can apply under the EQIP program. If you are interested in Farm Bill programs, contact your local NRCS office to identify and plan the conservation measures you would like to implement on your land. NRCS staff will help you develop a plan, identify recommended practices, and pursue funding through one of the many Farm Bill program options available. USDA service center locations are listed online at http://offices.usda.gov or in the phone book under Federal Government, U.S. Department of Agriculture. General program information is available on the NRCS Maryland website at www.md.nrcs.usda.gov. United States Department of Agriculture Press Release
“God has and continues to keep them under His protection as they travel throughout the land to do His Will and sing His Praises”. He further states that he is grateful for what God has done and all He continues to do. Press Release Submitted by Judy Moore.
Cat of the Week
My name is Jamie. I am named after the handsome character on the TV series Outlander. I am a truly gorgeous guy inside and out. I am affectionate. I love to be petted. I have the most adorable little mew that I use to greet you. I would like sleeping with you. I am just a little lover boy. If you would like to meet me, please come to the Petco in California on Saturdays and Sundays between 11am and 3:30pm. I am usually there, hoping to find a family to love me. I have a great friend named Tristan if you wanted me to have a playmate. We are both fully vetted. We cost $125 each or two for $200. We even have microchips. Oh, my eye looks funny in the picture because I was wounded when I was a baby and that is the best it will ever heal but I get along just fine. You can fill out an application at www.feralcatrescuemd.org and email it to moonandhunt@hotmail.com I was born around July 1, 2014. Looking forward to being with you. Yours forever, Jamie
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Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
AT
Presenting the professionals' favorite properties on the market.
Until Next Time: How to Pack Your Holiday Decorations Soon it will be time to bid farewell to another holiday season. By now the gifts have been unwrapped and the last of the turkey leftovers are long gone. The only task that remains is to put away all of those holiday decorations that have been decking the halls since Thanksgiving. Although packing holiday decorations may not be a favorite task, the following strategies can save both time and effort. • Get motivated. The first supply you need when putting holiday decorations away is a healthy dose of motivation. It’s easy to put off the taking down of lights or rolling up of holiday garlands, but the earlier you start the more quickly you can move on from the holiday season. Plan a day when you can pack away decorations, and do not schedule anything else for that day. • Purchase storage bins. Stock up on storage bins as they go on sale. Even if you end up with extra bins you ultimately don’t need to store holiday decorations, you will no doubt find another use for them. Choose bins of various sizes and don’t be afraid to use takeout containers, which can hold smaller items and be stacked inside of larger bins to keep everything neat and organized. Zip-top storage bags are also handy for ornament hooks and other small trinkets. • Find cushioning material. Fragile ornaments will need to be packed in some sort of soft wrapping to prevent breakage. Tissue paper, newspaper, old dish towels, and even faux polyester “snow” can be used to line bins and boxes. Label accordingly so you can isolate the breakable items. • Start with the tree. If you have a live tree, this should be the first item you remove. The longer the tree dries out, the bigger the mess it creates. Take down the lights and spool onto an empty paper towel tube or package into individual plastic bags to avoid knots and kinks. Thread a tree bag over the top of the empty tree and scoop around the bottom to contain as many pine needles as possible. Drag the tree outdoors and dispose or recycle according to neighborhood collection guidelines. Vacuum up any fallen nee-
Featured Homes of the Week
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dles. If you have an artificial tree, take the same steps, but store the tree away for next year. • Divide your home up into quadrants. You likely use the same decorations in the same places each year. To make decorating easier next year, dismantle holiday displays and pack them up according to specific areas of the home. For example, store all picture window decorations in one bin and label thusly. Continue to store decorations according to the room where they are hanged. Items that are used strictly for outdoors can be grouped together and stored in the garage. • Use a giftwrap organizer. Under-thebed storage containers are ideal for storing gift wrap and assorted accessories. You also can use a hanging shoe organizer to store bows, tape and name tags. Wrapping paper rolls also can be stored horizontally over rafters in the attic or garage. • Be especially careful with candles. Pack candles separately from other items, as candles must be kept in a relatively cool area so they do not melt when temperatures rise. • Keep an empty bin handy. Use this bin to store any gifts or decorations you buy throughout the year. This way you won’t forget where you stashed them.
Mike Batson Photography
Freelance Photographers
Events Weddings Family Portraits 301-938-3692 mikebatsonphotography@hotmail.com https://www.facebook.com/mikebatsonphotography
To list a property in our next Realtor’s Choice edition, call Jennifer at 301-373-4125.
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 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.
December, Month Long
LIBRARY ITEMS Library Holiday Closings Announced All three branches will be closed today, Dec. 24 through Dec. 26 for Christmas and will be closing at 5 p.m. on Dec. 31 and be closed Jan. 1. The Board of Library Trustees and the library staff send their warmest wishes for a happy and safe holiday season filled with good books, movies and music from your library! Winter Break Fun Planned for Kids Children of all ages can celebrate the season with wintry stories, games, and crafts at Snowtastic to be held at Charlotte Hall branch at 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 27. Leonardtown branch will hold a life-size Candy Land game for youth 6 years and older. They will make a Candy Land Costume then play the game collecting prizes as they race to the on Dec. 29 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Kids ages 8 years or older can work together as a team to build a castle and defend it against other teams during Minecraft Camp at the Lexington Park branch on Jan. 3 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Computer Classes: Basic Series The Leonardtown and Lexington Park branches will be holding basic introduction computer classes on topics such as Computers, Windows, the Internet and email in January. Dates and times are listed on the library website, registration is required. One-on-one instruction is available on these topics by appointment. Interested individuals can contact their branch to schedule. Popular Magazines Added to Online Collection New magazine titles added to the Zinio downloadable collection include Bon Appetit, Vanity Fair, Vogue, and Wired. The collection now includes 90 popular magazines which can be downloaded free to any computer and most internet-enabled devices from the library’s website. A library card is required. Customers needing assistance with the downloading can bring their devices to the library and staff will help them get started.
Christmas Tree Sale McKay’s in Charlotte Hall (37670 Mohawk Dr., Charlotte Hall) and Mechanicsville Carnival Lot across from Bank of America The Mechanicsville Optimist Club would like to announce the Annual Christmas Tree Sales event. It started last Saturday, Nov. 28, and will run until all trees are sold. Trees range from 6’ to 9’ with prices from $45 to $65. We also have table top trees for $25. All trees are freshly cut fraizer fur. Locations for tree sales are at McKay’s in Charlotte Hall and Mechanicsville Carnival lot across from Bank of America. All proceed go to help the local youth and community service programs.
Wednesday, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Service The Hollywood United Methodist Church (24422 Mervell Dean Rd., Hollywood) – 7 p.m. The Hollywood United Methodist Church will hold its Christmas Eve Service on Wednesday, Dec. 24 at 7 p.m. The service will consist of combined choirs. Our services are traditional and all are welcome to attend. Child care services will be provided. For more information, call the church at 301373-2500 The Hollywood United Methodist Church is located at 24422 Mervell Dean Road Hollywood, Md. 2063 Contact Info: 301-373-2500
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Community Christmas Dinner Father Andrew White School (22850 Washington St., Leonardtown) – 2 to 6 p.m. The St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Aloysius Church is sponsoring its 11th Community Christmas dinner on Thursday, Dec. 25, Christmas Day from 2 to 6 p.m. at Father Andrew White School in Leonardtown, Md. This dinner is FREE and for anyone desiring a good meal and/ or wanting to share the spirit of Christmas with others within our community through fellowship. All are welcomed to attend. For more information, call St. Vincent de Paul Society at 301-481-2942 or email us at svdp@saintaloysiuschurch. org.
Friday, Dec. 26 Chesapeake Critters at CMM Calvert Marine Museum (14200 Solomons Island Rd., Solomons) – 10 a.m. Learn about the amazing animals in our aquarium. Free with museum admission. Check daily events schedule at the admissions desk.
Saturday, Dec. 27 Snowtastic Charlotte Hall Library (37600 New Market Rd., Charlotte Hall) – 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Charlotte Hall Library. Children of all ages can come and celebrate the season with a flurry of stories, wintry games, and frosty crafts. Free. 301-884-2211 Web address: www.stmalib.org
Sunday, Dec. 28 Lions Club Turkey Shoot (9370 Crain Highway, Bel Alton) – 11 a.m. Our shoot starts at 11 a.m. and has 20 relays. It lasts about an hour and a half. We have a friendly atmosphere, and all are welcome. Bring your wife and kids! This nonprofit event supports the local Lions Club. http:// belaltonturkeyshoot.com/wp/
Monday, Dec. 29 Life-sized Candy Land Leonardtown Library (23250 Hollywood Rd., Leonardtown) – 2 to 4 p.m. After creating a Candy Land costume, children will collect prizes as they race to the finish. Board games are never this much fun. Free. 301-475-2846 Web address: www.stmalib.org
Tuesday, Dec. 3 Chesapeake Critters at CMM Calvert Marine Museum (14200 Solomons Island Rd., Solomons) – 10 a.m. Learn about the amazing animals in our aquarium. Free with museum admission. Check daily events schedule at the admissions desk.
Wednesday, Dec. 31 Dueling Pianos St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge (45779 Fire Department Ln., California) – Dinner is 6:30 to 8 p.m., Show is 8:30 p.m. to midnight Cutting Edge Dueling Pianos- Presented by the St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge. Italian themed dinner champagne, party favors, and breakfast bar after the show. Tickets are $50. For ticket purchases, please call 301-8637800. Proceeds from event will further our investment within our community as well as allow us to do even more for our Veterans.
Friday, Jan. 2 Lions Club Morning Bingo (9370 Crain Highway, Bel Alton) – 10:30 a.m., early birds begin at 10 We play on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. Our early birds begin at 10. This nonprofit event supports the local Lions Club. Regular games pay $50, specials $100. http://lionsclubbingo.net/wp/ First Friday Port of Leonardtown Winery (23190 Newtowne Neck Rd., Leonardtown) – 5 to 9 p.m. Start your New Year’s resolution to drink more local Maryland wine here. Warm up with some delicious mulled McIntosh Run & relax to our very own Meleah Backhaus performing live in the tasting room from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $5 for wine tasting up to 6 wines and a souvenir glass.
Saturday, Jan. 3 Minecraft Camp Lexington Park Library (21677 F. D. R. Boulevard, Lexington Park) – 2 to 4 p.m. Youth ages 8+ will work together in teams to build a castle, then defend it against other teams. Registration opens two weeks before the program. 301-863-8188 Web address: www.stmalib.org
25
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
CHURCH SERVICES DIRECTORY Running the 1st & 3rd Week of Each Month To Advertise in the Church Services Directory, Call The County Times at 301-373-4125
ANGLICAN
BAHA’I FAITH
BAHA’I FAITH God is One, Man is One, and All Religions are One
Discussions 3rd Wed. 7-8 Lex Pk Library, Longfellow Rm 301-884-8764 or www.bahai.org
CATHOLIC CHURCH St. Cecilia Church
Sundays - 10 AM 23928 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood MD, 20636 • 703-586-2233 www.redeemersomd.org
St. John's Anglican Church SUNDAY MASS 10 a.m. 26415 North Sandgates Rd. Mechanicsville, Md 20659 www.facebook.com/ StJohnsAnglicanMD stjohnsanglicanchurchmd.com
47950 Mattapany Rd, PO Box 429 St. Mary’s City, MD 20686 301-862-4600 Vigil Mass: 4:30 pm Saturday Sunday: 8:00 am Weekday (M-F): 7:30 am Confessions: 3-4 pm Saturday www.stceciliaparish.com
BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH
Victory Baptist Church 29855 Eldorado Farm rd CharlottE hall, md 20659
301-884-8503
Order Of gOOd news services sun schOOl, all ages…...............10:00 sun mOrning wOrship.............…11:00 sun evening wOrship….................7:00 wed evening prayer mtg.........…7:00
ProClaiming thE ChangElEss word in a Changing world.
Jesus saves
METHODIST
victOrybaptistchurchmd.Org
Hollywood United Methodist Church
HUGHESVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH
24422 Mervell Dean Rd • Hollywood, MD 20636
301-373-2500
Rev. Sheldon Reese, Pastor Sunday Worship 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday School for all ages 9:45 a.m. All of our services are traditional. Child care is provided. Sunday Evening Youth Group Christian Preschool and Kindergarten available
A member of the Southern Baptist Convention 8505 Leonardtown Road, Hughesville, MD 20637 301-884-8645 or 301-274-3627 Senior Pastor Dr. J. Derek Yelton Associate Pastor Kevin Cullins
• Sunday School (all ages) • Sunday Morning Worship • Sunday Evening Worship & Bible Study • Wednesday Discipleship Classes (Adults, youth & Children)
9:15 am 10:30 am 6:00 pm 7:00 pm
Over 250,000 Southern Marylanders can’t be wrong! Your Online Community for Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties
New to the area? Lifelong resident? • Stay abreast of local happenings • Check our highly popular classifieds • Speak your mind in the forums • Enter our contests and win terrific prizes
Stop by and see what Southern Maryland Online has to offer!
www.somd.com
The County Times
26
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Entertainment
Tennessee Bluegrass Comes to Southern Maryland
Kody Norris & the Watauga Mountain Boys will be at the American Legion Post 238 in Hughesville, Maryland on Sunday Jan. 11, 2015. Presented by Jay Armsworthy & the Sons of the American Legion, the American Legion Bluegrass concert series is still the best Bluegrass bargain in town at $15 per person. The show will begin at 2 p.m. with show host, Jay Armsworthy & Woody Norris. Doors open at noon. Kody Norris & the Watauga Mountain Boys is a traditional bluegrass band from Mountain City, Tennessee area. As the band travels around the country, they are often compared to the bluegrass bands of yesteryear, because no matter where you see this band, they are always sharply dressed, and when it comes to playing Traditional 'Mountain Sound' of bluegrass music, they play it like it should be played. In there shows, they include acoustic and old time gospel music as well. Kody Norris has made appearances on RFD TV with the Cumberland Highlanders Show. He has also filled in and played with Dr. Ralph Stanley & the Clinch Mountain Boys, Ralph Stanley II, Vince Combs & The Shadetree Bluegrass Boys, Clint Howard & Doc Watson, Sammy Adkins & The Sandy Hook Mountain Boys just to name a few. Not bad for a young man of 22 years of age. The Watauga Mountain Boys have made appearances at the Cabin Fever Pickin Party, Hampton, Va., at the Central Virginia Family Bluegrass Music Festival, Amelia, Va., Bluegrass Brothers Festival, Elkton, Va., and Mr. 'B's' Bluegrass Festival, Beaverdam, Va. The Watauga Mountain Boys have also made appearances on the 'Song of the Mountains' Bluegrass Concert' which airs on over 190 PBS stations nationwide. This tremendously popular bluegrass and old time music concert series comes from the Lincoln Theater in Marion, Virginia and is hosted by Tim White. Opening the show will be "cuzin's", Jay Armsworthy & Woody Norris doing some of the old, ‘brother style’ Bluegrass duets. A treat not to be missed. The American Legion Post 238 is located on the corner of Rt. 381 and Rt. 231 in Hughesville. The doors will open at noon. A Pork Chop dinner will be available for sale before the show by the Sons of the American Legion. For more information, tickets, and directions, go to www.americanlegionbluegrass.com or call 301-7373004. All paid tickets will be held at the door for pick up on the day of the show. You can purchase them in advance by sending a check or money order to: “Jay Armsworthy”, PO Box 741, California, Md. Also nonperishable food donations will be accepted for the Helping Hands Food Bank in Southern Maryland, which is greatly appreciated. Other upcoming shows in the series of American Legion Bluegrass include, by popular demand, the award winning Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out will come to us on Sunday Feb. 15, 2015; and closing out the series will be legendary Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver on Sunday, March 8. As always, our sound man will be Troy Jones.
From my Backyard to our Bay A St. Mary’s County Resident’s Guide to Improving Our Environment and Drinking Water
From My Backyard to Our Bay was first developed by the Baltimore County Soil Conservation District. From there, the booklet was given to each of the Soil Conservation Districts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed area for customization. If the 17.5 million residents who live in the watershed area of the Chesapeake Bay read this booklet, and took to heart its suggestions and best practices, the Chesapeake Bay would see a dramatic increase in health. Obtain a FREE copy of the booklet by going to the St. Mary’s River Watershed Association, smrwa.org and downloading it. The booklet is available at Wentworth Nursery in Charlotte Hall; Chicken Scratch in Park Hall; The Greenery in Hollywood; Good Earth Natural Food; and the St. Mary’s Soil Conservation District in Leonardtown. Join your local watershed association and make a difference for Our Bay!
smrwa.org
Household Best Management Practices
Instead of From My Backyard to Our Bay, this booklet could easily be titled From My Lifestyle to Our Bay. Earlier we mentioned ways we all can cut down on water use as a way to relieve the strain on the Bay. Many other things we all can do in our daily lives will have an effect on our Bay.
Maintaining Your Vehicle Vehicle maintenance is an important and easy way to prevent oil, heavy metals, and other toxic chemicals from reaching our drinking water and the Bay. After oil has leaked from a car onto a driveway, rainwater washes it into the street, toward the nearest storm drain, or into the yard, toward a Bay tributary. It is estimated that 180 million gallons of oil are disposed of improperly each year. A single quart of oil can contaminate 250,000 gallons of drinking water.
• Check your vehicle regularly for oil leaks and drips. If you find leaks or drips, fix them as quickly as possible. • Use ground cloths or drip pans when you find leaks, while changing the oil, or when working on the engine. • If a spill occurs while changing the oil or working on the engine, clean up the spill immediately and properly dispose of the cleanup materials. • Collect used oil or antifreeze in containers with tight-fitting lids (plastic jugs) and recycle at any St. Mary’s County waste transfer center. Do not mix waste oil or antifreeze with gasoline, solvents, or other engine fluids. The oil and antifreeze will become contaminated and will not be reusable. Motor oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or other engine fluids should never be dumped onto roads, into gutters, down a storm drain or catch basin, onto the ground, or into a ditch.
• Wash your car on the grass with biodegradable soap or take it to a car wash. Turn off the hose between rinses and save 150 gallons of water. • Carpool – the less you drive, the fewer air pollutants you emit. Where to get help with… VEHICLE MAINTENANCE • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/ road.html • EPA Vehicle Maintenance Fact Sheet, epa.gov/wastes/inforesources/pubs/ infocus/vehicle.pdf • From Forbes.com comes “Sneaky Ways to Get Better Gas Mileage.” forbes.com/2008/04/22/cars-mpg-gasforbeslife-cx_jm_0422cars.html • From DMV.org comes: dmv.org/howto-guides/vehicle-maintenance.php
This is the eighteenth in a series of articles that Mary Ann Scott (maryann.scott58@yahoo.com) has adapted from From My Backyard to Our Bay in the hopes of increasing awareness of the powerful booklet that could do so much to help the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Look for the next article in next week’s County Times!
From
My B
acky
ard to
A ImproviSt. Mar ng Oury’s Cou Environnty Res men ident’s t and Gui Drin de to king Water
Our
Bay
are you Bay-Wise? Bay-Wise landscapes minimize negative impacts on our waterways by using smarter lawn management techniques and gardening practices. The University of Maryland Extension Master Gardener Bay-Wise program in St. Mary’s County offers hands-on help with managing your landscape by providing information, a site visit, and landscape certifications. Our yardstick checklist is easy to understand and follow, and our team of trained Master Gardeners can help guide you through it while offering suggestions to improve both the appearance and sustainability of your landscape.
Call Now & Schedule a Visit!
301-475-4120 extension.umd.edu/baywise
Start a Movement in Your Neighborhood…Be the First to be Certified Bay-Wise!
27
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
The County Times
n O g Goin
In Entertainment
Now Arriving
Wednesday, Dec. 24
Open Mic Night Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 26 Karaoke DB McMillan’s Irish Pub and Grill (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 8 p.m. FUBAR Toot’s Bar (23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) – 8:30 p.m. Scarlet Plus Karaoke Brass Rail Sports Bar (20331 Point Lookout Road, Great Mills) – 9 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 27 Karaoke Applebee’s (45480 Miramar Way, California) – 9 p.m. Lounge Hound Ruddy Duck (16800 Piney Point Rd, Piney Point) – 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 28 Higher Standards Ruddy Duck (16800 Piney Point Rd, Piney Point) – 11 a.m.
Monday, Dec. 29
SpriNg LAwN & pAtio
FurNiture At outlet Discount pricing
Team Trivia Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 30 Open Mic Toot’s Bar (23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) – 11 a.m. DJ Spitfire Memories Bar (2360 Old Washington Road, Waldorf) – 9 p.m.
Wednesday. Dec. 31 Open Mic Night Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m. New Year’s Eve Party Toot’s Bar (23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) – 9 a.m. New Year’s Eve Party Brass Rail Sports Bar (20331 Point Lookout Road, Great Mills) – 9 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 3 Hydra FX Toot’s Bar (23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) – 8:30 a.m.
Sunday, Jan. 4 John Shaw Ruddy Duck (16800 Piney Point Rd, Piney Point) – 11 a.m.
Monday, Jan 5 Team Trivia Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m.
The Calvert 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.
Seasonal OUTLET CENTER McKay’s Plaza, Charlotte Hall
301-884-8682 • 301- 274-0615 Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat: 10 am - 7pm Sunday: 10am - 4pm Closed Tuesdays
CLUES ACROSS
1. Expression of sorrow or pity 5. Mama __, rock singer 9. Takes off 11. Make an arrest 13. Ear tube 15. Limit 16. Small shelter 17. Cavaliers’ #23 19. Digits 21. French kings’ name 22. Winter time in Colorado 23. Platform 25. Gambling town 26. Vietnamese offensive 27. Fermentation sediment 29. Load anew 31. Bile 33. A wooded valley 34. Soap opera 36. Cervus nippon 38. Belong to he 39. Women (French) 41. Olive, motor and mineral
43. Norse goddess of death 44. Military award 46. Annexes 48. One who adorns book pages 52. Affirmative 53. Fricative 54. Coal blacks 56. Faculty of sight 57. Leans 58. Low, sideless cart 59. Locomotion limbs
CLUES DOWN
1. Close to 2. Lactic 3. Burn residue 4. Offer for sale 5. Verb formation (abbr.) 6. __ Romeo 7. Lost weight 8. Soundest mind 9. Sound repetition 10. Sew up the eyelids of falcons 11. Allays sorrow
12. Repose 14. Mirish 15. Devised a new phrase 18. One who feels regret 20. War encirclements 24. Burn the surface 26. “The Jazz Singer” 28. Process of achieving #7 down 30. Miscellaneous collection 32. Express sorrow 34. More foolish 35. Queen of Sparta 37. Associating by treaty 38. Served 40. Satisfy 42. Frozen rains 43. Snake sound 45. High arc tennis shots 47. Cheek 49. Murre genus 50. Multiple 51. List of names called 55. No (Scot.)
Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
e i d d i K Kor
ner
Games
The County Times
28
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
CLASSIFIEDS Placing An Ad
Email your ad to: sales@countytimes.net or Call: 301-373-4125 or Fax: 301-373-4128. Liner Ads (No artwork or special type) Charged by the line with the 4 line minimum. Display Ads (Ads with artwork, logos, or special type) Charged by the inch with the 2 inch minimum. All private party ads must be paid before ad is run.
Employment
Great home for a 1st time buyer or retirement home in Chesapeake Beach. Qualifies for USDA, 100% financing.The rooms in the home are all good sized, big kitchen, orig hardwood flooring and newer bathroom. All on one level. Awesome rear deck with steps that lead to the big back yard, play house and storage shed/ workshop. Awesome potential to build up or out. Price: $214,000. Call 301-832-1165.
Full Time position working with school age children ages 5 & up. Day Care located in Huntingtown. Please call 410-535-5232.
PoSSible rent to own 3 br, 2 ba in lexington Park open Houses every wednesday 4:30 to 7:30 Saturday 10:00 to 3:00
action1000homesforsale.com
240-317-5088
The County Times will not be held responsible for any ads omitted for any reason. The County Times reserves the right to edit or reject any classified ad not meeting the standards of The County Times. It is your responsiblity to check the ad on its first publication and call us if a mistake is found. We will correct your ad only if notified after the first day of the first publication ran.
The County Times is published each Thursday. Deadlines are Tuesday at 12 noon Office hours are: Monday thru Friday 8am - 4pm
Real Estate
Home for Sale
Important Information
Publication Days
Spring Village at Wildewood (formerly Autumn Assisted Living at Wildewood), will be holding group interviews every Thursday at 1:30 pm for ALL positions. Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete the employment application. For more information call Tracy at 301-863-7110.
Employment
Employment
Drivers w/ CDL:
13.16/Hour + Commission
Home Weekends with Dedicated Route Guaranteed Weekly Pay on 1,800-2,100 Weekly Miles Limited Positions, So Call Now
888-475-2818
Mandatory Work Schedule. Every Friday 10-7. Every Saturday 10-5 Every Sunday 11-2. No exceptions. This is a key holder position for a stock work and sales in a Red Wing dealership store. With heavy emphasis on women's orthopedic fitting of S.A.S, Dansko, NAOT and New Balance. Seniors & Retirees able to lift 40 lbs & climb ladders are most welcome to apply at
Deliver Phone Books Work Your Own Hours Delivering in the Charles & St. Mary Counties. Must be 18yrs old, have valid DL & Insured vehicle. No exp. necessary. Call 1-800-518-1333 x 224 www.deliverthephonebook.com
FOO
TWEAR
Located at 2971 Plaza Dr., Dunkirk, MD (Walmart Giant S/C) Between Game Stop and B.ofA. Calvert Dental Clinic: Part-time Office Assistant. Email resume to mjohnson2@cmhlink.org
Your Local Community News Source On Newsstands Every Thursday Locally Owned
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The County Times
4, 2014
.somd.com
Thursday, augusT 7, 2014
www.counTyTimes
Thursday, sepTember 4, 2014 www.counTyTimes
.somd.com
Living the Dream
Sam Grow Returns from Nashville for Southern Maryland Performance Story Page 16
Archived Photo by Mike
301-373-4125 www.countytimes.net
Thursday, September
Gazette Formerly
Calvert
rt Photo by Frank Marqua
29
Batson
The County Times Serving St. Mary
’s
“Victims of Our Own Success” the Rise of Another
Story Page 12
ty Times Calver t Coun unty thing Calvert Co Every
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
30
St. Mary’s Department of Aging Programs and Activities Emergence: Under Our Skin II The Lyme Disease Support and Discussion Group will meet on Thursday, Jan. 8 from 2-3 p.m. for its quarterly program at the Northern Senior Activity Center. The film “Emergence” will be featured, as a follow-up to the award-winning documentary, “Under Our Skin,” this sequel takes viewers on a journey from horror to hope and covers the disease’s persistence and reach, promising new research, and conflicts that continue to impede progress. Characters from “Under Our Skin” are revisited as they emerge into better health, reclaiming their lives and dignity, and offering hope for many still suffering. Reserve your seat by contacting 301-475-4002, ext. 1001. Meet with Mike Physical Therapist, Mike O’Brien is returning the Northern Senior Activity Center on Thursday, Jan. 8 at 10:45 a.m. to present a session on better balance and prevention of falls. Mr. O’Brien is a licensed PT & has been practicing for over 15 years, including time at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. He is owner of Freedom Therapy Solutions in Mechanicsville and provides special complimentary heath education sessions to our Center members. Reserve your seat by contacting 301-4754002, ext. 1001. Watercolor Crayons and Pencils Techniques Start the New Year off with the gift of art. Jamie Naluai is offering a second set of art classes featuring watercolors at the Loffler Senior Activity Center. This will be a four-class session on Tuesdays, Jan. 6-27 from 10 a.m.-12 noon. Cost is $75 plus $5 supply fee, payable to instructor on the first day of class. This series will show how to use watercolor crayons and watercolor pencils to produce multiple effects. This is an introductory price that will remain in effect through the end of Feb. This series is ideal for the novice as well as someone with art experience. To register, call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658 by Dec. 29, 2014.
SENIOR LIVING Beginner’s Piano/Keyboard Class Coming Up Dr. Robert L. Jefferson, author of the “How to Play Gospel” book series and a leading expert on teaching gospel music (Check out his website at Jeffersonprsents.com) will again offer beginner piano/keyboard classes at the Loffler Senior Activity Center starting Tuesday, Jan. 27. The cost for the lessons is $100 for 6 sessions and includes instruction, texts and corresponding cd. Additionally you will need to invest in an inexpensive keyboard ($50-$100+ available at local stores and online.) Payment for the lessons can be made directly to Dr. Jefferson on the first day of class, which will take place on 6 consecutive Tuesdays at 1 p.m. beginning Jan. 27 and continuing through Mar. 3. Pre-registration is required by Jan. 20. For questions or to sign up, call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658. Living Well with Chronic Disease Start the New Year off with the best gift you can give yourself - improved well-being. The Loffler Senior Activity Center will conduct a six-week workshop on how to manage your chronic condition. The class will meet at the center on Thursdays, Jan. 29 – Mar. 5. This is an evidence-based program, developed by Stanford University to help people with chronic conditions take charge of their life by developing self-management skills, including dealing with depression and fatigue, pain management, working with health care providers and more. If you have a chronic condition and are serious about improving the way you feel, this is the workshop for you. There is no charge for taking this class; however, a commitment to regular attendance is needed for good results. For more information or to sign up call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658 by January 22. Tea Tasting New Year Celebration Tasting tea is a fun way to enjoy the company of good friends while learning about tea and experimenting with new blends. The tasting will be organized like a wine tasting, but unlike a wine tasting, you can drink as much as you want and never have to worry about having
a designated driver. Raise your tea cup and toast the New Year at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 11 a.m. Participants will taste six different teas. Snacks will be provided. Cost per person is $3. Join us for lunch following the tea. The lunch meal will feature orange juice spritzer, cranberry glazed pork roast, mashed potato, roasted vegetables, marinated black eyed peas and cranberry raisin apple crisp. Advance reservations required. Make reservations by calling 301-475-4200, ext. 1050 and be sure to indicate whether or not you will be joining us for lunch. A Matter of Balance “A Matter of Balance” is a nationally recognized, award-winning time-tested program for people over 60 designed to help manage falls and increase activity levels. In this class, participants will learn to view falls and fear of falls as controllable, set realistic goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce falls at home and exercise to increase strength and balance.Classes will be held at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Mondays, Jan. 5 – Mar. 9 (no class, Jan. 19 & Feb. 16) from 1:45 – 3:45 p.m. Attendance at all class sessions is highly encouraged. Trained coaches in the Matter of Balance program will lead the meetings. Class format is mostly lecture/ discussion with approximately 30 minutes of exercise each session. All materials are provided. To sign up for the course, call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050. Space is limited so sign up early. Jewelry with Sue During this class at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Wednesdays, Jan. 7 -21 at 1 p.m., students will learn the popular jewelry making technique of chain mail. Students will also practice beading and making stretch bracelets. The cost for this series is $15; payable to Sue Peters. All materials will be provided. To learn more or to sign up, call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050.
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.
Thomas Cooksey Ward (continued)
By Linda Reno Contributing Writer When the reporter asked Mr. Ward whether he was a Democrat or a Republican, he replied “Don’t say Republican to me, sir, I am a Democrat from the ground up; I always have been and always will be.” He said the only political office he had ever held was as a State Tobacco Inspector from 1838 to 1850. As to his personal life, Mr. Ward said he had married Miss Rebecca Langley on July 26, 1826 and that she had died “a number of years ago.” (Rebecca was born ca1807 and died January 31, 1870). He mentioned only six of his 10 children— perhaps he meant only those still living. One of his sons was William Warren Ward, born August 14, 1843 who enlisted in the Confederate army and was killed at Front Royal, Virginia on November 12, 1861. At the time of the interview he was liv-
A Journey Through Time The
ing with two of his unmarried daughters, Emma and Cecelia. “Although feeble from age and the effects of last winter’s illness, he says he is in good health, has a good appetite and sleeps well…I cannot chew as well as I used to and that bothers me some.” Although the reporter tried to induce Mr. Ward to allow him to take a photograph, he declined. Apparently he had never had a photograph taken and wanted to keep it that way. He was described as being of medium height, quite deaf, dark eyes, “thin hair and full beard are snow white, but he does not look like a man who has lived over a century.” Mr. Ward died August 11, 1903, just a few months shy of his 110th birthday. “Thomas Cooksey Ward, the venerable Southern Marylander who enjoyed the distinction of being the only resident of the State who had lived in three centuries. Born in 1793, he died at his home near Charlotte Hall, in St. Mary’s County on Tuesday last. Mr. Ward was a landmark in St. Mary’s County.
Chronicle
Death was due to a severe cold contracted a few weeks ago. Dr. Harry C. Chappelear attended him in his last illness. He was a Democrat of the sturdiest type, never missed an election. He was loved by all who knew him. Survived by 4 daughters and 2 sons as follows: Mrs. Maria Johnson, Mrs. Rose Stewart, Misses Emily Ward and Cecelia Ward; Messrs. J. T. Ward and John Ward. He leaves 12 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren and several great great grandchildren. Pallbearers were Messrs. G. W. Petherbridge, C. M. Thomas, B. H. Carrico, J. T. Estep, I. Canter, and G. C. Johnson.” (Times Crescent, La Plata, August 14, 1903). Other publications also printed notices of his death and referred to him as “The Sage of Maryland.” This man lived through and was an eyewitness to many historical events. Wouldn’t it have been wonderful to know his feelings and to have had him relate his experiences during the War of 1812, the Civil War, and the Lincoln assassination?
31
The County Times
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Wanderings of an
Aimless
d
Min
BOOK
REVIEW
“Memoirs of an Elf”
“Busy Now, By Devin Scillian, but Calm Ahead” Illustrated by Tim Bowers
By Shelby Oppermann Contributing Writer I hope that by now everyone is in relaxation mode; that all Christmas rushing and preparations are complete. Family time and good food should be the word of the day. The week after Christmas is a time to take a breath and begin to think about little projects anticipated in the New Year. I realize that for many the week after is a time of returning items and also going back to the stores to use your gift cards – to buy all the items that you saw and wished you had. A lot of people say they don’t like receiving gift cards; that there is no thought or care involved in the process. I, personally love gift cards because while I am shopping for the perfect gift for someone else, I invariably find things I would love to have but never remember to get. Like socks. I need socks for winter and won’t ask for them for Christmas. Though I must say that in the ‘70’s, it was fun to receive those multi-colored separate toe type of socks. I have seen them back out in some of the stores again. And as is said in the cyclic nature of fads, “ Everything old is new again” or “If you wait long enough it will come back into style.” Well, if anyone were to look in my closets they would say that I would be ready for any decade that comes back into style. I wish paper clutter would come back into style. Just as I think I might have it under control all of a sudden it explodes on top of every surface in our office or any available drawers in the coffee table. Even the most diligent declutterer/ junk mail sorter is going to find some advertisements or paper they have saved to look at later. But all that will be in January’s domain. January is still one of my most favorite months; in my mind, or how I visualize it is in blue and silver, calm, hushed, a time for reflection and journaling. Christmas week, with all its last minute dashing around for the perfect gift, or finishing projects can be stressful, but I hope everyone finds some time to drive around and look at lights, attend a church service, or maybe create a new family tradition. Sometimes I worry that the only thing we might remember is all the craziness. Though I know that we will all enjoy every minute of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. There is nothing like the smiles on loved one’s faces as they open that special thought out present. I do want to make sure that our family thinks about the history of Christmas and what it means to each of us. After that, then a little bit of Christmas craziness can occur. So here’s hoping we all can look forward to a calmer month ahead, and a plan to keep up with tasks throughout the year. But for right now enjoy all the fun, and laughter, and parties and all that this Christmas season has to offer. You can rest later. Merry Christmas! 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
c.2014, Sleeping Bear Press $16.99 / $17.99 Canada 32 pages By Terri Schlichenmeyer Contributing Writer
Your mom and dad take their jobs very seriously. They get to work on time and they do a good job. Sometimes, they might even stay late to finish a project because it’s important to be responsible. That’s a lesson they’ve taught you because you take your around-the-house jobs seriously, too. You always do your chores right because people depend on you. But in the new book “Memoirs of an Elf” by Devin Scillian, illustrated by Tim Bowers, an important job is done correctly because Christmas depends on it! It’s Christmas Eve, a quarter to ten, and Spark Elf is getting antsy. In just two hours, he and his fellow elves Bobbin and Nutshell will help Santa deliver presents. The reindeer are ready, the sleigh is full, and because he feels “so good,” Spark snaps an elfie. At quarter to eleven, with an hour to go, it starts to snow and that makes Spark really happy. It would make him even happier if Santa would hurry up. Santa says Spark worries too much. And then it’s “launch time!” Guam and Fiji are first for gift delivery, followed by New Zealand. Santa starts singing his favorite Christmas carol, and he stops to pet every dog. Santa loves dogs, and they love him, but that takes time and there’s none to spare. As Santa plays with a puppy named Tugboat, Spark says it’s time to go. At halfway around the world and with the bag half-empty, the sleigh starts falling
behind. Santa needs to step it up, but he’s too busy enjoying the cookies that kids have left for him. Santa loves cookies – except ginger snaps. Those are the ones he gives to Spark, Bobbin, and Nutshell. Spark would love it if you’d leave more gingersnaps. With nine hours to go, they finish Mexico City. Four hours to go, and they’re done with South America so Santa takes a minute to play with the toys. Spark urges him to hurry. It’s almost Christmas morning… And with a half-hour to go, they finish! But there’s something left in Santa’s sack. It’s something very important that someone will miss very, very much. Can St. Nick save Christmas in the nick of time? Oh my, but there’s all kinds of cute inside “Memoirs of an Elf.” Spark Elf may be my new Christmas hero, in fact, because author Devin Scillian gives him a Type-A personality mixed with just the right kind of holiday sweetness. Spark is businesslike and efficient, yet he still appreciates the tiny things that make the Yule cool, and he’s eager to share secrets with kids who are lucky enough to have this book. But Spark isn’t the only irresistible thing here: I was totally charmed by the illustrations from Tim Bowers. They made me want to read this book all over again. This is not your traditional Christmas story, but reading it surely could become a new tradition for your family. It’s meant for kids ages 5-to-10, but “Memoirs of an Elf” is serious fun for anyone.
Over 250,000 Southern Marylanders can’t be wrong! Your Online Community for Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties
www.somd.com
The County FRE WINE Times
RISATA MOSCATO
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
ASSORTED VARIETIES 750 ML
ASSORTED VARIETIES 750 ML
ASSORTED VARIETIES 750 ML
2/$15
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1.75 LTR
MARTINI & ROSSI ASTI 750 ML
500 ML
BOORDY SPICED WASSAIL 750 ML
GREY GOOSE VODKA GIFT SET
CV CHOCOLATE WINE ASSORTED VARIETIES 750 ML
$28 99 $46
BACARDI RUM
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PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH EGG NOG
$8
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RUM CHATA GIFT SET
750 ML
CAVIT WINE
ASSORTED VARIETIES 1.5 LTR
2/$22
2/$18
2/$18
750 ML
CHRISTKINDL GLUHWEIN SPICED WINE
750 ML
BAREFOOT BUBBLY PROSECCO 750 ML
$1299
2/$14
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750 ML
SOLOMONS ISLAND CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY PORT
CROWN ROYAL GIFT SET 750 ML
32
BAREFOOT BUBBLY
KORBEL CHAMPAGNE ASSORTED VARIETIES 750 ML
$1399
JIM BEAM BOURBON GIFT SET
$23 49 $12 $4299 49 $23 99
750 ML
1.75 LTR
1.75 LTR
CAPTAIN MORGAN SPICED RUM 750 ML
$12 $2499 49
1.75 LTR
JACK DANIELS WHISKEY GIFT SET BLACK OR TENNESSEE HONEY 750 ML 1.75 LTR
$2199 $3999
JOSE CUERVO TEQUILA 1.75 LTR GIFT SET
99 $2099 $28 99 $14 $4199 GOLD OR SILVER 750 ML
1.75 LTR
MCKAY’S CHARLOTTE HALL PRICES EFFECTIVE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2014 THRU THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2015
www.mckayssupermarkets.com
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