2015-01-08 The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

www.countytimes.somd.com

Pet Owners Beware

County Sees Spike In Animal Cruelty Complaints Photo by Frank Marquart

Story Page 16

Thursday January 8, 2015

The County Times

4 Local News 9 Business 10 Cops & Courts 11 Home Page 13 Letters 14 Education 16 Feature Story 18 Obituaries 20 Community 22 Community Calendar 24 Entertainment 25 Entertainment Calendar 26 Games 27 Sports 28 Classifieds Business Directory 29 30 Senior 30 History

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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“He would always looking for a common sense solution to something,” - Charlotte Hall developer John K. Parlett on the the practical philosophy of former sheriff Benjamin Burroughs who passed away Jan. 2.

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The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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The County Times

Local

NEWS

Stolen Truck Damaged by Fire

By Lauren Procopio Staff Writer On the morning of Dec. 31, 2014, Kevin Kern reported to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office that his 2010 Chevrolet Silverado truck was stolen, according to officials.

At 4:43 p.m., on the same day, authorities from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to 15700 Covington Road in Brandywine, after a citizen discovered a fire had damaged the truck.

According to Deputy Fire Marshal Brenneman, the fire has been ruled as arson and it caused an estimated $15,000 in damage to the Chevrolet.

The investigation is currently on going and the area of origin has yet to be determined. Anyone with information pertaining to this incident is encouraged to contact the State Fire Marshal, Southern Region, at 443-550-6835. lauren@somdpublishing.net

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Leadership Southern Maryland Class 2016 Information & Recruitment Breakfasts

LSM Invites Potential Candidates to Informal Breakfasts The Leadership Southern Maryland (LSM) Board of Directors announced today that they will host four informal breakfast meetings in Charles, St. Mary’s, and Calvert Counties to invite potential candidates to learn more about the benefits of LSM. Board, Alumni and Class 2015 members will be available to share information about the LSM Program and Application Process with interested LSM candidates. Meeting locations include: Charles January 14, 2015 & February 4, 2015 Wednesday 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center La Plata, MD 20646 Calvert January 21, 2015 Wednesday & February 12, 2015 Thursday 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 St. Mary’s January 28, 2015 & February 18, 2015 Wednesday 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

College of Southern Maryland Leonardtown Campus Bldg C Room 216 Leonardtown, MD 20650 An RSVP is required to attend. To RSVP, please contact Helen M. Wernecke, Executive Director Leadership Southern Maryland via email helen@leadershipsomd.org or call 240-7255469; messages welcome! To learn more about LSM, please visit www.lsmlead.org.

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

The County Times

Local

NEWS

Three Animals Perish in Apartment Fire

By Lauren Procopio Staff Writer On Jan. 3 at 7:09 p.m., 64 firefighters from the La Plata, Waldorf, Accokeek, Bel Alton, Bryans Road and Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Departments responded to Jimmies Paddock Apartments in White Plains after a neighbor discovered the fire.

According to officials, the blaze originated in an apartment bedroom in the complex and caused an estimated $200,000 in damage.

Officials identified the apartment occupant as Michael Mills and identified the owner as Robert Mills.

Firefighters were able to control the fire within 15 minutes, but three animals perished as a result of the fire.

10 residents from the different apartments were able to escape safely, but due to the damage, the residents were displaced and are being assisted by the American Red Cross, according to Deputy Fire Marshal Melissa Decker.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

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County Government Operational Schedule for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day STS, Landfill and Convenience Centers Open

All St. Mary’s County Government Administrative Offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19, in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The St. Andrews Landfill and six (6) Convenience Centers will be open for normal hours of operation on Monday, January 19. In addition, St. Mary’s Transit System (STS) will operate its normal routes and hours of operation. The SSTAP program for the Senior Activity Centers and SSTAP trips will not operate on Monday, January 19.

All three St. Mary’s County Library branches (Charlotte Hall, Leonardtown and Lexington Park) will be closed on Monday, January 19. Also, all three Senior Activity Centers (Garvey, Loffler and Northern) will be closed and no Meals on Wheels deliveries will be made.

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Local NEWS

The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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Burroughs Remembered for Generosity and Hard Work

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Ben Burroughs, a developer, entrepreneur and one-term sheriff of St. Mary’s County died Jan. 2 at age 81.

Burroughs was widely known as the owner of the Charlotte Hall Farmer’s Market and numerous other business ventures, including bail bonds.

Long-time acquaintance and sometime business partner John K. Parlett, Jr. said Burroughs was well known for helping out people with all kinds of needs whether it was something substantial or just for advice.

“He accomplished a lot of things in the community,” Parlett, a Charlotte Hall based developer said. “He was a very generous person to the folks in this community.

“He was a good guy who we will miss.”

Parlett said that there was seldom a time in Burroughs’ life when he was not actively working and pursuing some kind of goal.

Burroughs had once been a door-to-door-salesman, Parlett said, and even worked delivering ice.

“He would always looking for a common sense solution to something,” Parlett said.

Burroughs served as sheriff from 1966 to 1970.

He had a reputation as a tough enforcer of the law, said Thomas F. McKay, president of McKays Food Stores, but he had just as tough a reputation as a businessman.

He had numerous investments including lots in Country Lakes in Mechanicsville, a shopping center in Charlotte Hall, renting space for a park and ride to the state and he owned perhaps the largest private water and sewer system in the north end of the county.

“He never played politics,” McKay said. “That’s not to say he wasn’t politically well connected but with him it was all about business.

“He was beholden to no one.”

Burroughs had ideas about what was a good business deal and if he felt a deal was not going to be a winning one for him he had no problems walking away from it.

“There was not much negotiating with Ben,” McKay said. “With Ben you either took his terms or you could leave.”

“In that way he had a reputation for real honesty. With Ben you knew what you were going to get.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

The County Times

Comptroller Announces Opening of 2015 Tax Filing Season Comptroller Peter Franchot announced today that Maryland will begin processing personal income tax returns for Tax Year 2014 on Jan. 20, the same day the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) begins accepting returns. Business tax returns will be accepted and processing will begin Jan. 9.

“The prompt processing of claims and the immediate return of taxpayer refunds is my absolute top priority as Comptroller,” Franchot said. “I’m proud of the agency’s reputation as a national leader in efficiently getting refunds back into the hands of taxpayers and my office looks forward to another successful tax season.”

The 2015 tax return filing deadline is Wednesday, April 15, the same as the IRS deadline. Taxpayers are encouraged to file their returns electronically for the fastest possible processing of their claims and to ensure they receive all possible refunds. A list of approved vendors for use in filing your electronic return can be found at marylandtaxes.com.

Free state tax assistance is available at all of the agency’s 12 taxpayer service offices, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A list of office locations can be found at marylandtaxes.com.

For more information on any tax-related matter, please go to the Comptroller’s website at www.marylandtaxes.com or call 1-800-MD-TAXES (1-800-638-2937) or 410-260-7980 in Central Maryland.

Local NEWS

Vehicle Destroyed

By Fire

By Lauren Procopio Staff Writer On Dec. 29, 2014, at 5:30 p.m., authorities from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to Woodville Road in Brandywine in response to a 2004 Nissan SUV that had been intentionally set on fire, according to Deputy Fire Marshal John Nelson, who responded to the scene.

The vehicle was discovered and reported to authorities by a neighbor, who was walking his dog when he discovered the SUV, according to Nelson.

According to Nelson, the fire had completely burned itself out well before it was discovered.

The incendiary fire originated in the interior of the vehicle and caused an estimated $8,000 in damage to the Nissan, completely destroying the SUV. Officials have identified Denice Taylor as the owner of the 2004 Nissan.

No arrests have been made at this time and no injuries resulted from the fire. lauren@somdpublishing.net

Local NEWS

The County Times

Liquor Store Application to Face Opposition at Liquor Board Meeting

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer The owners of a restaurant property in Lexington Park have applied to turn the building into a liquor store with a Class A license, but officials with the county’s Alcohol Beverage Board say they expect strong protests from the community against the proposed change.

Waqar Qureshi, owner of the A&W/Long John Silver restaurant store on Great Mills Road, said the property had not produced profit as well as projected over the past several years and the time had come to switch to a better business model.

The proposal is up for debate today before the Alcohol Beverage Board.

He said that on his business’ side of Great Mills Road there was only one other liquor store, while there were several others on the opposite side.

He said he had a petition of some 500 signatures of residents close to where his proposed package store would be who wanted the store there.

“They want to have it in the community,” Qureshi told The

County Times on Wednesday.

“They want to have the convenience of the store instead of having to cross the street.”

The county has also received a petition in opposition to the changeover of the store — 206 signatures, according to the beverage board coordinator Tamara Hildebrand.

“I’ve had a lot of calls asking about being at the meeting,” Hildebrand said. “I’m preparing for people being there in protest.”

The opposition say that there are too many liquor stores in Lexington Park already and another would undermine the push to revitalize the county’s oldest urban center, which has long suffered from crime and decay.

Hildebrand said there are currently 21 Class A licenses in use in the 8th Election District with six still available due to the population density of the area.

Class A liquor licenses are strictly regulated in conjunction with the population of a certain area; in the northern section of the county there are no more such licenses available. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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Agricultural Certainty Regulations Adopted; Program Looking to Sign Up Farmers Regulations to adopt Maryland’s new Agricultural Certainty Program have been finalized and are now in effect, according to the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA).

The regulations were published in the Maryland Register on October 17, 2014 and open to a 30-day public comment period. The voluntary program gives qualifying Maryland farmers a 10-year exemption from complying with new environmental laws and regulations in return for installing best management practices on their farms that meet local or Chesapeake Bay Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL) goals ahead of schedule.

“I am extremely proud of our Agricultural Certainty Program. It was developed specifically with conservation farmers in mind.

These are the men and women who go the extra mile to protect natural resources on their farms and water quality in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries,” said Maryland Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance.

“The Certainty Program gives something back to these farmers by allowing them to conduct business in a predictable regulatory setting while providing certainty that agricultural pollution controls are in place.”

Authorized by the 2013 Maryland General Assembly, the Agricultural Certainty Program was developed with input from a diverse oversight committee, which included farmers as well as representatives from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Chesapeake Bay Commission, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Maryland Grain Producers Association, soil conservation districts, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, MDA, and the Maryland Department of the Environment among others.

This program allows interested farm operations to undergo a field evaluation and records review conducted by an MDA-certified

verifier to determine compliance with local, state and federal environmental requirements.

Once a farm is approved for the Agricultural Certainty Program, an agreement is signed outlining operation and maintenance practices consistent with current site conditions. The operation is then excused for a 10-year period from meeting new regulatory programs or standards that put further restrictions or performance standards in place to address nitrogen, phosphorus or sediment runoff. At the end of the 10-year period the operation must be in compliance with all current requirements.

Participating farms must undergo inspections by a certainty verifier at least once every three years with oversight provided by MDE. MDA is currently finalizing administrative policies and procedures for the Agricultural Certainty Program and anticipates accepting applications beginning early spring 2015.

Interested farmers can prepare for the application process by making certain that they have an updated Soil and Water Conservation Plan and a current Nutrient Management Plan. In addition, farmers must be in compliance with all MDA nutrient management reporting and record keeping requirements. Ultimately, candidates should be prepared to demonstrate that they have addressed all potential nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment losses from the farming operation.

Interested farmers should contact Colin Jones, MDA’s Agricultural Certainty Program Coordinator at 410-841-5868 or their local soil conservation district office for addition information. Information on Maryland’s Agricultural Certainty Program is available on the MDA website at mda.maryland.gov/resource_conservation/Pages/agricultural_certainty_program.aspx.

Devastating December for Maryland Fire Deaths

State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci reports fatal fires in December are cause for concern. The month of December experienced the loss of eleven lives resulting from fire related incidents. One adult and two children lost their lives when a plane struck a home in Montgomery County causing an unavoidable deadly house fire. Three adults succumbed to injuries received in three separate home fires in Prince George’s County, with one fire occurring on Christmas Eve and one on Christmas Day. Two adult lives were lost during home fires in Baltimore County. Two additional adult lives were taken during separate fire incidents in Baltimore City, one of which involved a homeless victim in a tent and one adult victim recently died in her dwelling in Howard County during a kitchen fire.

Although four of the fire incidents remain under investigation for the cause; two fires were determined to be the result of unattended cooking, one was the result of an unattended candle and one involved careless discarding of smoking materials. It was also noted that two separate victims called 911 from inside their burning homes and three dwellings had no working smoke alarms inside the structures. A preplanned home escape plan would very likely have proven to be beneficial during most

of these incidents.

A new Maryland law became effective on July 1, 2013 involving “battery only” smoke alarms used in residential properties. When “battery only” smoke alarms have reached their 10-year life span, they need to be replaced with new long-life sealed lithium battery smoke alarms with silence/hush button features. The silence/hush button feature temporarily disables the alarm so the occupant can ventilate the space from mild smoke conditions typically created during some cooking operations. The use of these alarms eliminates the need to replace the batteries during the 10 year life of the alarm.

If your property is protected with 120 volt electric smoke alarms, they should be replaced every 10 years with new 120 volt electric smoke alarms w/ battery back-up to ensure proper and timely operation in the event of a fire.

Local initiatives across Maryland now mandate the installation of residential fire sprinklers in every newly constructed single-family home. Currently 12 Maryland counties, Baltimore City and numerous municipalities have adopted these requirements. Residential fire sprinklers react independently as the fire begins to advance. In most cases, only one fire sprin-

kler activates and contains the fire to the area of origin. This allows occupants more time to escape the effects of fire and protects the remainder of the dwelling from the ravages of uncontrolled fire. Additionally, all townhomes built in Maryland since 1992 require residential fire sprinklers, and to date, no fire fatalities have occurred in any of these protected homes.

To help survive a home fire, the State Fire Marshal recommends the following: • Working smoke alarms should be located on every level of the home and in each sleeping area.

• Test smoke alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year.

• Develop a home escape plan with a safe meeting place and practice the plan with all family members. It is extremely important to, “Get Out and Stay Out” of a working fire, never return inside for anything.

• Call 911 from outside of the home to avoid fast building toxic gases and carbon monoxide exposure.

• Smoke alarms combined with a residential fire sprinkler system increase surviving a fire by over 97 percent.

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

The County Times

Business

Take a Trip to World Gym

By Emily Charles Contributing Writer Is your New Years Resolution to starting hitting the gym? Head over to one of World Gym’s eight local locations! They’d love to help you out.

“We have eight locations in the TriCounty area. Members have reciprocity between Lexington Park, Leonardtown, Wildewood, Lusby, Prince Frederick, Owings, LaPlata and the Waldorf Capital Clubhouse,” said Regional Operations Manager Mark E. Dale.

Formerly known as Pro-Fitness until its purchase by Tim and Susanna Yatman in 2007, Dale said, World Gym has worked hard to help its clients work hard, and is dedicated to providing the best fitness programs in town.

“We are full-service health clubs. Programs include group exercise classes ranging from yoga, pilates, indoor cycling (spinning) and BodyPump, one-on-one personal training, tanning and childcare, to name a few,” Dale said. While promoting fitness, World Gym emphasizes the importance of assuring healthy internal and external changes as results of time spent at the gym.

This dedication to clientele is a workout of its own, proving both fulfilling and challenging to World Gym’s staff.

“We are people’s oasis, their morning cup of coffee, their escape from the busyness of life and their punching bag, if needed, to help combat a bad day! From the moment they scan their key tag, they get to have uninterrupted ‘me’ time to help relieve stress, lower blood pressure, fight off diseases like diabetes and get back into those jeans they just can’t seem to throw out. I get to witness life-transformations that can literally save one’s life,” Dale said. “Like everything, people will get out of exercise what they put into it. Members who have not exercised in 10, 20 and 30 years, or at all, can’t expect to see dramatic results in their first few weeks, especially in the mirror. We stress that the internal changes that are happening are not only the first to come, but the most important. However, people typically want the physical changes fast and the easiest way possible. It is a constant challenge teaching new members the concept of a life-long commitment to exercise.”

While gym members may find fitness to be a daunting task, the service and hospitality provided by World Gym staff leads customers to view their exercising experiences with satisfaction.

“I think they appreciate the effort that our owners and staff put into the business.

Since becoming World Gym, we have taken three very different business models, picked out the best parts of each, and created an operation that truly is a family-oriented health club. Our owners are involved in everything from daily operations, equipment maintenance, community outreach and even sit on the St. Mary’s County Obesity Coalition (a division of MedStar Hospital) to help com-

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bat childhood obesity. World Gym does not rest of its past success; we are always looking forward to keep our clubs a step ahead,” Dale said.

World Gym is open daily, according to Dale, and is prone to hosting events in addition to general services.

“We are open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Weekend hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

However, Lexington Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year and always staffed! Even on Christmas Day at 3 a.m., our front desk attendant is ready to welcome you in for a workout,” Dale said.

“Saturday, Jan. 17, at 12 p.m., Lexington Park World Gym will host The Mike Carroll Memorial Power Lifting Meet. This is a 3-lift (Bench Press, Squat, Deadlift) competition in honor of our past member, Mike Carroll.”

While working out at World Gym is a good experience for its clients, staff members like Dale have found their positions both enjoyable and educational.

“I’ve learned, and I stress to our employees, that a health club is the best place to be employed. I started out as a front desk attendant in Gold’s Gym of Ocean City, Md. in May of 1999 at 19 years old. Looking back at the relationships I have made over 16 years of ‘health club employment,’ I am reminded that these friendships were developed, in part, due to an atmosphere where we were striving to be our best. I truly believe that if someone is an avid exerciser, all other facets of their life will run more smoothly,” Dale said.

If you’re planning to head to the gym, take a trip to World Gym. Dale doesn’t think you’ll regret it.

For more information, visit www.somdworldgym.com. contributing@countytimes.net

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

The County Times

Cops & COURTS

Police Arrest Man for Large Pot Stash

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Detectives with the Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division say they have charged a Chaptico man they describe as a major drug trafficker.

Steve Allen Nickelson faces charges of possession with intent to distribute marijuana; police say search warrants of Nickelson’s property and possessions turned up just under nine pounds of high-grade marijuana and cash.

The ensuing investigation, which has been ongoing since mid-October, resulted in a Grand Jury handing down an indictment against Nickelson in December.

Det. Sgt. Jeffrey Jones, assistant commander of the southern unit of the Criminal Enforcement Division, said Nickelson’s distribution went well beyond the county’s borders.

“It was definitely St. Mary’s and Charles counties,” Jones said. “This was a large volume of drugs we seized.”

Jones said the marijuana confiscated was not yet broken down into gram-orounce-sized portions for individual sale on the street.

Police said the marijuana came to 3,988 grams increments.

“It could go for a month or two months,” Jones said of how long the marijuana likely would have lasted on the streets. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Thursday, January 8, 2015

10

Two Men Charged in Shooting Complaint

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Police shut down an impromptu recreational shooting event in Hollywood late last month when residents who lived nearby said they heard bullets striking their homes and whizzing past their heads from nearly a mile away.

The Dec. 27 incident led to two Lusby men, Robert F. Zurl, 30, and Cory Allen Ogden, 29 being charged with reckless endangerment.

According to police charging documents residents on Little Cliffs Road became concerned when they heard gunshots coming from the same direction as their front yard; resident Frederick Allen Wagner told police he believed the shots were coming from an automatic weapon.

Both Wagner and his wife were sitting outside and went inside to avoid being hit, court papers state, and a neighbor, Christopher White, also came down his drive way because he too had heard the gunshots and became concerned.

“Wagner stated as he was walking to go speak with White, he heard bullets ‘whizzing’ near his head,” police said in

charging documents. “Wagner said both of them immediately took cover behind Wagner’s vehicle while they waited for police arrival.”

When state troopers arrived they also took cover behind their vehicles, they said, but using GPS they found a residence on Sunny Ridge Drive where sheriff’s deputies found a large group of people shooting.

The owner of the property pointed police to the only two people who had shot the only assault-type rifle there, an AR-15, and police questioned both Zurl and Ogden who said they were unaware if their rifle rounds were traveling in the direction of residence that was struck, police said.

On Jan. 1 police went back to Wagner’s residence and pulled a .223 caliber round out of his home, the same caliber as an AR-15 rifle. Police found multiple other bullet strikes in Wagner’s home, which they estimated to be about 5,000 feet from the Sunny Ridge Drive address where the group had been shooting. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Sex Offender Indicted on Attempted Rape Charges

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Prosecutors have formally charged a man in Circuit Court who is accused of attempting to rape a neighbor of his at gunpoint late last year.

David Leon Thomas, who is already a convicted sex offender registered in Calvert County, faces 10 criminal counts including two counts of attempted first-degree rape, attempted first-degree sex offense, first-degree assault and armed robbery.

He is also charged with filing false information on the sex offender registry and illegally possessing a firearm.

The incident occurred Nov. 21 when Thomas went to the address of his alleged victim and asked if he could use her cell phone. She invited him inside, charging documents read, and when he followed her into her kitchen he produced a handgun and held it to her head.

He led her back to the living room and told the victim to remove her clothes, police alleged, but when she refused he put down his gun and strangled her with his hands.

When the victim awoke she found that her cell phone had been taken and Thomas had left; she also told police she couldn’t feel the left side of her body after being strangled into unconsciousness, according to court papers.

When she was taken to the hospital, police found that she had significant wounds to her neck.

Both the victim and other witnesses say they had seen Thomas living in the neighborhood; charging documents state Thomas lived just two doors down from the victim.

Detectives found that Thomas had been living in St. Mary’s at an Elkton Lane address without having registered as a sex offender here, according to charging documents.

In Calvert County, Thomas was registered on the charge of sexual abuse of a minor. guyleonard@countytimes.net

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The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Cops & COURTS

Frosh Pledges to Serve as the “People’s Lawyer”

New Attorney General Sworn In by Gov. O’Malley Annapolis, Md. (Jan. 6) -- Brian E. Frosh was installed on Tuesday, Jan. 6 as the 46th Attorney General of Maryland, pledging to serve as the people’s lawyer and to be an advocate for justice for all Marylanders.

“We will provide sound counsel so that all branches of government operate fairly and effectively,” Frosh said. “We will confront the challenges that a complex and fast-changing world places in our path, and we will be a force for fairness, for equality and for justice.”

Frosh was invested during an afternoon ceremony inside the Maryland State House, with the oath of office administered by Gov. Martin O’Malley.

“From the environment to college affordability to combating gun violence, Brian has taken bold stands on our toughest issues with integrity, virtue and with a profound understanding that we are all in this together,” O’Malley said. “I know he will serve Maryland as Attorney General with the wisdom and integrity that the office demands.”

During his remarks, Frosh praised his immediate predecessors, Douglas F. Gansler, J. Joseph Curran Jr. and Stephen H. Sachs, for their work to advance the state on a variety of

social issues, including voting rights, the death penalty and marriage equality.

A longtime advocate for environmental issues, Frosh pledged that polluters would face consequences for contaminating Maryland’s air and water, and that unscrupulous business practices in other areas would not be tolerated.

“We must create a business climate that creative, ambitious enterprises seek out,” he said. “But those who break the rules will be held accountable so that honest businesses will not be at a competitive disadvantage to those who cheat, pollute or deceive.”

The Office of the Attorney General provides counsel to the Governor of Maryland and all state agencies, the Maryland General Assembly and the judicial branch. Its major functions also include consumer protection, civil rights and criminal appeals.

Frosh had been a member of the General Assembly for 28 years prior to being elected Attorney General in November 2014, and was chairman of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee for the last 12 years.

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

The County Times

Letters to the

EDITOR

Dear Community Friends and Supporters, We are once again planning our annual Longaberger Basket Bingo fundraiser, to be held on March 28, at Elks Lodge 2092, in California, Md. Last year our bingo raised over $2,000 toward our operating budget making it possible for us to continue to provide necessities to the LHS Band Program.

We are asking for monetary donations to support the bingo, as well as donations of merchandise, gift cards, and other items to fill the Longaberger Baskets.

This fundraiser is one of our larger ones and will help is reach our minimum goal of 14,000 dollars, which will be our operating budget for the 2015-2016 school year.

Our yearly operating budget covers expenses for equipment, marching band drill and licensing fees, certificates and plaques for students, student aid scholarship, drum major summer band training, props, and

uniform maintenance for both marching and concert bands, to just name a few.

We would also like to raise enough to include the purchase of new bibs (or pants) for the marching band (the current ones are well worn because they have been used for 10 years) and wardrobe purchases for the concert bands. These are just two very costly items we are keeping in mind as we strive to increase our budget goal.

Feel free to contact me (contact information below), or our director of bands (contact information above), if you have any questions or concerns. With each donation we provide advertising at the basket bingo event, and a certificate or letter with our EIN. We are registered as a 501(c) organization.

Please visit our website: www.leonardtownband. org to view our supporters for past events, pictures,

and other information about our band program.

Monetary donations marked LHS BAND basket bingo and made out to LHS Band Boosters may be mailed to LHS in care of Matthew Pierson at Leonardtown High School Raider Band, 23995 Point Lookout Road, Leonardtown, Md. 20650.

We thank you for your time and consideration in helping our boosters support our very deserving LHS Band students. We are extremely proud of them!

Sincerely, Bonnie Reinhart LHS Band Booster President (2014-2015 school year)

Dr. Martin Luther King and Abortion In January, we celebrate the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and rally in Washington, D. C. for the annual March for Life to protest the Supreme Court decisions that legalized abortions. Since those decisions occurred on 22 January 1973 almost five years after Dr. King was killed, some people might question where he would have stood on abortion.

First of all, Dr. King was a pastor and his Christian faith was the most important thing in his life. Therefore, he would have been very knowledgeable about the Bible. He would have known that a person’s physical life begins at conception because in Jeremiah 1:5 God says “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you….”

He would have known that a pregnant woman has a child in her womb because in Genesis 16:11, the Angel of the Lord said to Hagar “Behold, you are with child…” He would have known that God disapproved of abortion because in Exodus 21:22-24 God set the punishment of “…life for life, eye for eye…” for anyone killing or injuring an unborn baby. He would have

known that God approves of adoption instead of abor- but are beginning to realize now the full consequences tion because of the story about King Solomon’s wis- of what you have done regarding abortion, remember dom in 1 Kings 3:16-27. King Solomon looked favor- that God is merciful and forgiving. But even if you ably on the mother because to save her baby’s life, she knew and did it anyway, if you are truly sorry, repent was willing to give her baby to a harlot who had stolen and ask Him, He will forgive you. her baby, lied to her, was fighting her for custody, and If he were still alive, I believe Dr. King would be was willing to have the baby killed rather than give it at the annual March or at one of the many associated to someone else. events. And like his niece, Dr. Alveda King, he would Dr. King would also have opposed abortion be- probably be a major speaker encouraging people to be cause he was a champion of justice and human rights. pro-life and not to have abortions.

Proverbs 6:16-19 states that one of the things God hates is “hands that shed innocent blood” and who is more Robert Boudreaux innocent than an unborn child in the womb? Also the Waldorf, Md. unalienable Right to Life in the Declaration of Independence is the most important human right, because without life, no other right is possible.

Dr. King also knew that while hanging on the cross, Jesus said “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they Freelance Photographers do”. If you didn’t understand in the past

Mike Batson Photography

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The County Times

Education

Southern Maryland Youth Orchestra (SMYOrch) Announces Auditions for its Spring 2015 Season

The Southern Maryland Youth Orchestra (SMYOrch) is holding an open rehearsal and auditions for their upcoming spring season during the month of January.

On Monday, Jan. 12, SMYOrch will hold an open rehearsal from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Chopticon High School. All middle-school and high-school musicians who are interested in learning more about SMYOrch are encouraged to attend.

Auditions will be held Jan. 13-15 and January 21-22.

Interested musicians can complete an audition registration form by going to the SMYOrch website, www.smyorchestra. org.

The orchestra is currently seeking all instruments.

Non-traditional orchestral instruments are welcome.

The Southern Maryland Youth Orchestra is a full orchestra serving St. Mary’s, Calvert and Charles counties. Any young musician entering grades 6-12 with at least one year of musical study may audition for the SMYOrch. Younger musicians who can play at Level 4 or higher may audition and, at the discretion of the Director, may be accepted. Non-traditional orchestral instruments are welcome to audition. The SMYOrch will work together with Maryland musicians, educators and organizations to expand the musical opportunities available in our community.

For more information, contact SMYOrch President Julia Nichols at 301-997-0079, smyorchestra@gmail.com or www.smyorchestra.org

Thursday, January 8, 2015

14

St. Mary’s College of Maryland Welcomes New Assistant Athletic Trainer

The New Year brought some staff changes to the St. Mary’s College of Maryland Office of Sports Medicine. This morning, Head Athletic Trainer Jen Robertson announced the promotion of Jenn Anderson from Athletic Training Intern to Assistant Athletic Trainer.

Anderson takes over for Stephanie Guzzo, who after nearly five years at St. Mary’s stepped down to assume an athletic training role with the Harlem Globetrotters organization. Anderson will work primarily with the field hockey, women’s soccer, women’s basketball, baseball, men’s tennis, and women’s tennis teams.

“Jenn has been a huge asset to our team over the last semester. Her professionalism and hard-working nature have only strengthened the Sports Medicine Department. I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to work with Jenn on a full-time basis,” Robertson stated.

The Port Allegany, Pennsylvania native arrived at St. Mary’s following a one-year stint at Ithaca College in New York, where she had direct supervision of the men’s and women’s indoor track and field teams and helped with the coverage of field hockey, men’s and women’s lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and volleyball.

Anderson was also accountable for the monthly

inventory of three athletic training rooms and the supervision of the athletic training students at Ithaca.

“I soon realized, upon arriving at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, that I could see myself working here for a longer duration than just the internship. When I heard of the available position, I knew this was where I was meant to be. I am excited to start my career as an Assistant Athletic Trainer at St. Mary’s College and I am especially looking forward to working with the staff and the athletes!” Anderson said.

She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in athletic training from University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, graduating magna cum laude with a minor in athletic coaching in 2013. Anderson then completed a Master of Science degree in exercise and sport sciences with a concentration in sport psychology at Ithaca in 2014.

Anderson was part of presenting, “Exercise the Mind and Body: The Optimal Approach to Rehabilitation” at the 14th Annual AASP Mid-Atlantic Regional & Northeast Atlantic Sport Psychology (NASP) Conference in Philadelphia and the 17th Annual James J. Whalen Academic Symposium at Ithaca.

Southern Maryland Youth Choir Starts Second Season

Photo courtesy of Susan Bisson Lambert

​Singers and Directors of the Southern Maryland Youth Choir launch their second season in style!

For more information about auditions and membership, please visit www.sm​ychoir.org.

15

Thursday, January 8, 2015

The County Times

Education

Seahawk Women’s Basketball Victorious on Youth Appreciation Day

Four Seahawks scored in double figures Saturday afternoon as the St. Mary’s College of Maryland women’s basketball team halted their eight-game slide with a 69-52 Capital Athletic Conference win over Penn State Harrisburg on Youth Appreciation Day. The Seahawks (1-8, 1-3 CAC) overcame a four-point halftime deficit for their first win of the season with a second-half urge that saw them outscore Penn State Harrisburg (3-7, 2-2 CAC) by a 40-19 margin over the final 20 minutes.

First-year guard Kerri Kline (Hagerstown, Md./Saint James School) paced St. Mary’s in the victory with 16 points as well as season-bests of eight rebounds and three assists. Sophomore center Nina Haller (Chevy Chase, Md./Bethesda-Chevy Chase) picked up her second double-double of the season with 13 points and teambest 10 boards.

St. Mary’s opened up the second stanza with a 14-0 run to establish a 43-33 advantage as well as its first lead of the day at 13:26 behind two of senior captain Maddie Hook’s (Chevy Chase, Md./Bethesda-Chevy Chase) season-high 13 points.

The Lions used a quick 9-4 spurt to cut the deficit to five at 10:07 as first-year guard Christine Mabry (Gaithersburg, Md./Gaithersburg) knocked down a trey to cap the run.

Penn State Harrisburg, however, would get no closer as the Seahawks owned a double-digit lead for the final 7:31 of the contest. St. Mary’s biggest lead of the game was 69-49 at 1:55 as first-year guard Olivia Nowlin (Glenelg, Md./Glenelg) made both of her free throws.

Hook, who finished the day with 13 points off the bench, added season-best five rebounds while senior captain Matti Vagnoni (Chevy Chase, Md./Stone Ridge School) kept the offense running smoothly by equally her career-high of five assists.

Junior captain Anna McClain (Durham, N.C./Carolina Friends School) was the final Seahawk in double-digits with season-best 13 points plus season-high three steals.

Penn State Harrisburg controlled the first half en route to a 33-29 halftime lead as the Lions shot 41.4 percent from the field, including 4-of-12 from downtown, but Harrisburg put the Seahawks on the line 11 times in the first half and St. Mary’s capitalized by only missing two free throws. The Lions started the game by outscoring the hosts, 17-6, in the first eight minutes and then held on for the four-point halftime lead.

First-year forward Janel Brown (Gaithersburg, Md./Magruder) led all scorers at intermission with 13 points on 5-of-6 shooting, including making all three of longrange attempts, while McClain was the Seahawk scoring leader with nine on 4-of-5 shooting.

Brown ended the afternoon with a double-double on game-highs of 18 points and 14 rebounds while junior guard Jasmine Yanich (Harrisburg, Pa./Susquehanna Township) contributed 10 points and four caroms.

After putting its first win of the season in the books, St. Mary’s hosted a free clinic for all the local youth in conjunction with Youth Appreciation Day. The Seahawks had the opportunity to work with approximately 30 youth, teaching them various basketball skills.

The Seahawks hope to continue their winning ways on Wednesday, January 7th as St. Mary’s travels to Western Maryland to take on Frostburg State University in Capital Athletic Conference action at 6 p.m.

You are invited to participate in our 14th annual Southern Maryland Homeschool Science Fair on Jan. 20 at the Leonardtown Library. Your student (grades K-12) may register for either a science display or a scientific method experiment.

The student participating with a scientific display should demonstrate knowledge of a science topic using visual aids. The student participating with a scientific method experiment should demonstrate knowledge of a topic using the results from conducting an experiment following the scientific method.

The Science Fair will be sponsored by and held at the Leonardtown Library.

Students may arrive and begin setting up at 5:15 p.m., and judging will begin at approximately 6 p.m. Students should remain with their projects to be interviewed by the judges. Participation awards will be presented at approximately 7:30 p.m. All participants will receive comment books, judging sheets, and participation certificates. The Science Fair will remain open to the public until 8 p.m.

There will be an opportunity for our middle and high school level participants

to progress to the St. Mary’s County Science and Engineering Fair in February.

Interested candidates will be interviewed by an additional pair of judges, and will be notified that evening as to his/her status for qualification for the county’s science fair. You must either live in St. Mary’s County, or participate in some way in homeschooling in St. Mary’s County, in order to be involved in the county’s fair.

Additional registration materials are required, which must be submitted prior to the night of the homeschool fair. The students must also follow all guidelines set by the county’s school system for their projects. You can visit their website for specific information, or contact Cari Morrison if you need further clarification.

We look forward to an exciting evening for our young scientists to share and learn. Please complete the registration form and return it by mail or email to Cari Morrison by Thursday, Jan. 15. For more information, visit stmalib.org/kids/ home-schooling/.

A snowdate is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 22.

2015 Homeschool Science Fair

January Events at the Calvert Marine Museum

Happy New Year! January is the perfect time to visit the Calvert Marine Museum. For a complete listing of all museum events and activities, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $9.00 for adults, $7.00 for seniors, military with valid I.D. and AAA members, and $4.00 for children ages 5 - 12; children under 5 and museum members are always admitted free. For more information about the museum, upcoming events, or membership, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com or call 410326-2042. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Monday, Jan. 5 through Friday, Jan. 30 Name our Octopus Contest Visit the museum, see our octopus and help us pick a name. Leave your suggestion in the ballot box located

in the Museum Store for the chance to win an octopus basket full of fun. The name will be chosen by the octopus on Tuesday, Feb. 10 at 11 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 8 and Wednesday, Jan. 14

Sea Squirts 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. O is for Octopus! What mischief can this 8-armed animal get into? Let’s do the octopus dance while we visit this intelligent animal. Free drop-in program for toddlers 18 months – 3 years old and their caregivers.

Monday, Jan. 19 Octopus Day 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Fun for all ages! Hear octopus fact talks at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., watch the

octopus interact with toys, make a craft, play games and hear octopus stories. Free with museum admission.

Special Black History Tours Join us in the Maritime History Hall at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Free with museum admission.

Thursday, Jan. 22 Little Minnows 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Ocean Animals! Octopus, otter, osprey and oyster are just a few of the animals that live in or near the ocean. Could you open a box with suction cups or stay dry without a raincoat? Let’s do some experiments to see how these animals adapt to ocean living. For children 3 – 5 years old and their caregivers.

CMM members are now free: $5 for non-members.

Feature Story

The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

16

County Sees Spike in Animal Cruelty Complaints

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer For seven years, Mary Burke Russell and her daughter Kasey Russell have let their cat Mimzy out of their home to roam their Hollywood neighborhood in relative safety — until Dec. 27 when the female feline went missing.

“She didn’t come and she didn’t come back,” Mary told The County Times. “She was gone for five days.”

By Dec. 31, they had given up hope the marmalade-colored cat would ever return but they suddenly found her dragging herself along their home’s deck struggling to return to safety.

“She was literally dragging herself with her right paw to the door,” Mary said.

They soon found after taking Mimzy to an emergency veterinarian’s office in Huntingtown that she had been shot by a .22 caliber bullet, shattering her shoulder and leaving her entire left front leg useless.

She was so badly hurt doctors had to amputate the entire appendage.

Mary said the cat’s shoulder was the only thing that stopped the bullet from entering her heart and killing her.

Mimzy’s surgery cost more than $2,000 and she is still in pain but making a rapid recovery, she said.

“When they shot her, they dropped her,” Mary said. “It just infuriates me. They had to know this was a cat.”

“She’s been here seven years and everybody knows us.”

Mimzy has a distinctive throaty meow and sports a bright green collar complete with a bell and a tag.

That tag was missing from the collar when she returned but the bell was still there.

Kasey said the cat has retained her sweet and loving nature and still wants to take jaunts outside, even though her owners know they can likely never let their cat out again.

“She’s figuring out how to move, but it’s difficult,” Kasey said.

Mary believed that her cat might have been immobile for

Photos by Frank Marquart

as many as one to two days after being wounded but somehow managed to summon the strength to return home.

She was anemic, dehydrated and had lost weight on her journey home.

“She shouldn’t have been able to last the way she did,” Mary said.

Antonio Malaspina, head of the county’s animal control department, said his office has taken a report of the incident and is pursuing an investigation.

Animal cruelty complaints, half of which usually do not merit any action on the part of Malaspina’s office, have spiked, he said.

In 2014 there were a total of 339 animal cruelty complaints in St. Mary’s County, Malaspina said, up sharply from

the 252 complaints in 2013. In 2012, there were 275 animal cruelty complaints.

Animal cruelty complaints of this severity were rare here, he said, with most complaints stemming from concerns over whether pets had proper bedding, enough food and water and were being kept from roaming far from home.

He said the best protection for pets was for their owners to keep them at home and on their property.

Having a collar and a tag does not give owners the right to let them run free, he said.

“But just because a pet comes on a person’s property does not give them the right to shoot it,” Malaspina said.

Only under a very strict set of circumstances could a person fire on a loose pet on their property, he said.

17

Thursday, January 8, 2015

“Only if you’re defending yourself from an attack, or defending livestock,” said Malaspina.

The county has seen several high profile cases in the past year of animal cruelty charges that have gone to the courts.

In one case a Ridge man was charged with animal cruelty for shooting a pitbull that he said had come on his property and moved aggressively toward him. After the dog was killed he posted a picture of it and himself on a social media site.

Kenneth Woodburn, however, was found not guilty of animal cruelty, aggravated ani-

The County Times

mal cruelty and reckless endangerment in August.

In another case Tammy M. Curtis, 49, of Lexington Park was sentenced to 90 days in jail suspended to just 53 days served on a charge of animal cruelty in May of 2014.

In that incident Curtis was accused of throwing three puppies in a trash bin after having a disagreement with their owner, with whom she lived. guyleonard@countytimes.net

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The County Times

Obituaries Mr. Walter B. Dorsey III, 26 Mr. Walter B. Dorsey III, 26, was born Feb. 16, 1988 in Leonardtown, Md. He was shot and killed in an apparent robbery/homicide in Los Angeles, California on Dec. 11, 2014. Walter was born and raised in St. Mary’s County, Md. and attended college in Florida where he studied Alternative Health Sciences before heading out West. He resided in Venice and Mountain Center, Calif. where he practiced organic farming licensed by the State of California for the last five years of his life.

He was particularly fond of the mountains and beaches of California and the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. He enjoyed boating, hiking, surfing and working on his California Ranch. He had a special gift and desire to heal which he utilized for the benefit of others. Walter touched many lives in his travels and will forever be remembered as the pirate. Aside from his extended family Walter left behind so many beautiful women, friends and people he considered family…

He was the son of Philip H. Dorsey III and Donna Dorsey of Leonardtown, Md. and Alexandria, Va. He is survived by his brother Robert Ernest Dorsey, 22 and his maternal Grandparents Robert Swallow and Joanne Swallow of Sun City, Florida and Northwoods, New Hampshire and Deborah Swallow of The Villages, Florida and Moody Beach, Maine.

He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather Walter Bryant Dorsey of Leonar-

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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. dtown and Jeanne Blackistone Dorsey Mandel of Colton’s Point, Md. Walter is survived by his step-grandmother Brenda Dorsey of Leonardtown and Hon. Marvin Mandel of Annapolis.

Walter leaves behind a deeply devoted family including his Uncles and Aunts, Paul and Sandy Dorsey of Olney, Md., John And Tricia Dorsey of Mission Hills, Kansas, Helen Dorsey and John Windolph of Medley’s Neck, Md., Dan and Diana Scannell of Falmouth, Maine, Lisa Swallow and Paul Willshire of Carlisle, Mass., Denise Swallow of Reading, Mass., Eric, Jason and Chrissy Swallow of Richmond, Virginia.

Walter also leaves behind his first cousins Bryant Dorsey, Austin Dorsey, Gabriella Dorsey, Eva Marie Dorsey, Kyle Bishop, Philip Bishop, Shauna Bishop, Sopia Hantzis, Grace Hantzis, Katie Scannell, Connor Scannell, Jack Dorsey and Catherine Dorsey.

A gathering of Walter’s friends and family was held on Friday Dec. 19th in Santa Monica, California at the Woodlawn Cemetery, Mortuary and Mausoleum at 1847 14th Street,. from 1 to 3p.m. followed by a life celebration on Venice Beach.

He will be remembered at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Leonardtown, Md. on Jan. 9 at noon. Please direct any letters or condolences to P.O. Box 530, Leonardtown, Md. 20650. In lieu of flowers the family wishes donations be made to SMAWL of St. Mary’s County, P.O. Box 1232 Leonardtown MD 20650.

Margaret L. “Peggy” Russell, 83 Margaret L. “Peggy” Russell, 83, of Hollywood, Md. passed away on December 29, 2014 in Leonardtown, Md. Born on June 5, 1931 in Bedford, Ind., she was the daughter of the late Jessie Smith Beck, and Albert Lee Beck, Sr. Peggy was the loving wife of the late John Merrill Russell, Sr., whom she married on Oct. 17, 1953 in Hollywood United Methodist Church Hollywood, Md., and who preceded her in death on May 9, 2004. Peggy is survived by her children; John M. Russell, Jr. (Carol) of Leonardtown, Md., Linda L. Reddinger (Keith) of Butler, PA., Donna S. Russell, and Marsha L. Redman both of Hollywood, Md., 3 grandchildren, and 1 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brothers Albert Beck and Joseph A. Beck.

Peggy moved from Bedford, Ind. to St. Mary’s County, Md., in 1937, and graduated from Great Mills High School Great Mills, Md. in 1949. She was a homemaker.

The family received friends on Monday, Jan. 5, 2014 from 5 to 8 p.m. with prayer recited at 7 p.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Leonardtown, Md. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 6 in the Hollywood United Methodist Church Hollywood, Md. with Rev. Sheldon Reese officiating. Interment followed in Joy Chapel Cemetery Hollywood, Md. Pallbearers were; Mark Woods, Rick Norris, Scott Davis, Greg Dean, Tom Russell, and Jay Hills. Honorary Pallbearers; Richard Williams, Wayne Dean, Brian Reddinger, and Tony Kaper. Contributions may be made to: Hollywood Vol. Fire Department P.O. Box 7 Hollywood, Md. 20636, Hollywood. Vol. Rescue Squad P.O. Box 79 Hollywood, Md. 20636, Hospice of St. Mary’s P.O. Box 625 Leonardtown, Md. and/ or Hollywood United Methodist Church P.O. Box 100 Hollywood, Md. 20636.

James “Billy” William Morgan, 62

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James “Billy” William Morgan, 62 of California, Md., passed away on Dec. 10, 2014 in Hollywood, Md. Born January 2, 1952 in Leonardtown, Md. He was the son of the late Cecelia Hope Morgan and Lewis “Diddley” Matthew Morgan Sr. Billy was the loving husband of Debra Lynn Morgan whom he Married on Aug. 11, 2006 in Leonardtown, Md. Also survived by his children; John Morgan (Wendy) of North Beach, Md., Wendy Alls (Adam) of California, Md., Jesse Morgan of Leonardtown, Md., Ashley Morgan of California, Md., Step Children; Jennifer Carroll (Troy) of Mechanicsville, Md., Raymond Mercure (Wanda) of Scotland, Md., Michael Mercure (Alicia) of Hughesville, Md. Siblings; Lewis “Scooter” Morgan Jr. (Rose) of Mechanicsville, Md., Calvin Morgan (Pat) of Hollywood, Md., Charles “Duck” Morgan (Fran) of Dunkirk, Md., Bobby Morgan Sr. of California, Md., Joseph “Tiny” Morgan of Mechanicsville, Md., David “Andy” Morgan Sr. (Beverly) of Tennessee, and Donna Abell (Jb) of Leonardtown, Md., two grandchildren and seven step grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Billy was proceeded in death by his step granddaughter; Tiffany Lee Carroll and nephew Lewis “Louie” Matthew Morgan III. Billy was a lead equipment operator for Smeco for 30 years. Billy enjoyed hunting, horseshoes, playing cards, camping, fishing, the Dallas Cowboys and Nascar. He volun-

teered his time working at HVFD carnival every year and really enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

The family received friends on Monday, Dec. 15, 2014 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with prayers recited at 7:00pm in the MattinglyGardiner Funeral home, Leonardtown, Md. A Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014 at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Father Raymond Schmidt officiating.

Interment followed to Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, Md. Pallbearers were; Mouse Carter, Ellis Gibson, Lonnie Stewart, Kila Mills, Jeffrey Raley Jr., Ron Vause, David Lindsey, and Jimmy Herbert.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s and/or Hollywood Volunteer fire department.

Peter Albertsen, Jr., 82 Peter Albertsen, Jr., 82, of Ridge, Md., passed away on Saturday, Jan. 3, at Hospice House of St. Mary’s in Callaway, Md. He was born on July 22, 1932 in New Haven, Conn.

He was the son of the late Peter Jensen Albertsen and Karen M. Somod Albertsen.

Pete enjoyed 20 years of dedicated service in the United States Navy, serving in the Vietnam War, and was honorably discharged as an AECS in 1971. He also owned Albertsen’s Foodway and the Hide-A-Way Bar in Ridge. He was never one to stay idle for long and returned to the government to work for SESTF at Pax River. He sold the store in 1978 and purchased a local gas station, “The Ridge Gulf Service Center” so that his children would have the opportunity to work in the local community. Pete then went to work for Sikorsky as a field tech representative and travelled the world until he retired again in 1997.

In the 1960’s the Little League in St. Mary’s County was almost non-existent and Pete worked closely with the Little League to reestablish it. With his help it grew to include over 4,000 kids in St. Mary’s County.

Pete loved spending time with his family at his home where he could be found enjoying crabs, fishing, and looking out at the Chesapeake Bay from his front yard. His community was also important to him as he was a member of the Fleet Reserve, Lions Club and American Legion.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Edna Geraldine (Gerry) Cox Albertsen.

He is survived by his children, Debra Ann Albertsen (Rob) of St. Mary’s City, Md., Roy Jacob (Patti) of Lincolnton, Ga., Michael Allen (Cindy) of California, Md., John David (Missy) of Ridge, Md., and William James (Randi) of Woodstock, Md.; his sisters, Ann A. Jaeger (Bob) of Kattskill Bay, N.Y. and Sharon L. Wells of Rome, N.Y.; 16 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren, and his fiancé, Linda Embach of St. Inigoes, Md. Family will receive friends for Peter’s Life Celebration on Friday, Jan. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m., with a Memorial Service celebrated

by Reverend Christina Blake at 7 p.m., at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, Md. Interment will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ridge Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 456, Ridge, Md. 20680.

19

The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Obituaries Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A.

Michael William Ragan, Sr., 70 Michael William Ragan, Sr., 70, of Mechanicsville, Md. passed away on Jan. 1 at Hospice House of St. Mary’s in Callaway, Md. He was born on May 31, 1944 in Washington, D.C. to the late Paul E. Ragan and Margaret (Schleigh) Ragan.

In addition to his parents, Michael was predeceased by his son, Michael William Ragan, Jr. and his brother, Richard Ragan.

Michael is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Christine Lynn and Dennis Repasi of Mechanicsville, Md.; brothers, Paul Ragan and Raymond Ragan; sister, Margaret Thomas; four grandchildren, Victoria Repasi, Steven Repasi, Bailie Anthony and Julia Repasi.

Family and friends will be received to celebrate Michael’s life during a gathering on Saturday, Jan. 10, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Brinsfield-Echols Funeral Home, P.A., 30195 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall, Md. 20622.

A Funeral Service will begin at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Trinity Memorial Gardens, 3221 Mattawoman-Beantown Road, Waldorf, Md. 20601.

Memorial contributions in Michael’s memory may be made to: Hospice House of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, Md. 20650.

Condolences may be made to the family at: www.brinsfieldecholsfuneral.com

Maurice Reiff Landes, Jr., 91 Maurice Reiff Landes, Jr., 91, recently of Leonardtown, Md., passed away on Monday, Jan. 4.

Reiff was born at home in Philadelphia, Pa. on May 24, 1923, to parents Maurice R. Landes Sr and Mabelle Tennison Landes. Like his father, he graduated from Germantown Academy in Philadelphia. In 1942, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving on patrol torpedo (PT) boats in the Pacific from 1942-46. Upon return from the Navy, he joined Polar Manufacturing Company, a manufacturer of office accessories and specialty items started by his father in 1912.

He worked at Polar as a manager and owner before retiring in 1995. After retirement, he moved to Cobb Island, Md., then later to La Plata and Leonardtown. Reiff enjoyed hunting, boating and travelling. His travels took him to the US Southwest to visit his daughter and to Alaska, Ireland, India and on a cruise through the Panama Canal. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and step-grandchildren. He was a member of VFW Post 10081, American Legion Post 82, and Charles County Meals-on Wheels (1996-2008).

He is survived by his wife, Sheila J. Landes of Leonardtown, Md.; his children, Christiana R. Landes of Charlotte Hall, Md. and Maurice R. Landes III (Rekha Mehra) of Washington, D.C.; his grandchildren, Kealy McCollum-Landes of Denver, CO, Arjun V. Landes of Princeton, N.J., and Tulasi K. Landes of Washington, D.C., his step-children, Rebecca Morgan (Paul) of Leonardtown, Md. and David Schug (Sofya) of Leonardtown,

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.

Md.; and his step-grandchildren, Arden and Jackson Morgan and Samuel, Daniel and Andrew Schug, all of Leonardtown, Md. In addition to his parents, Reiff was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Ellen Leopold Williams Family will receive friends on Saturday, Jan. 10 from 2 to 3 p.m., with a Memorial Service celebrated at 3 p.m., at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, Md. Interment will be held at a later date at Ivy Hill Cemetery, 1201 Easton Road, Philadelphia, Pa. 19150.

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 by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A.

Johnny A. Perez, 66 Johnny A. Perez, 66, USN Ret, from Lexington Park, Md., passed on peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospice on 31 December, 2014, after a courageous battle with cancer with his wife by his side.

He was born on 16 May, 1948 in San Antonio, Texas, to the late Theodore G. Perez and the late Irene Agnes Garcia Perez Tobias.

Johnny graduated from Luther Burbank High School, San Antonio, Texas, in June 1967 and enlisted in the United States Navy in July 1968. After attending basic training at Great Lakes, IL, he went on to his adventures by serving at NAS Oceana, Va.; VF111, VF194, VF21 and VF51 all at NAS Miramar, CA; VP1 at Barbers Point, HI; VX1 at NAS Patuxent River, Md.; VP31 at Moffett Field, CA; Naval Station Keflavik, Iceland; VQ2 at NAS Rota, Spain; and VS28 at Cecil Field, FL. He served on deployments onboard naval aircraft carriers USS Shangri La (CVa.-38), USS Oriskany (CVa.-34), USS Ranger (CVa.-61), USS Coral Sea (CVa.-43), and USS Forrestal (CVa.-59). Johnny received many awards such as the Vietnam Service Medal (second award), Good Conduct Medal (fifth award), National Defense Medal, Humanitarian Service Award, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (fourth award), Meritorious Unit Commendation (fourth award), Battle “E” Award (third award), Navy Achievement Medal, and Overseas Service Ribbon (sixth award). John was very proud of having served for over 21 years and honorably retiring in May 1989 as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate Petty Officer First Class (AD1). Following his military retirement, Johnny was employed at Boeing Aircraft Company in Everett, Wash., as an engineering technician and then with DYNCORP at NAS Patuxent River, Md., as a Power Plants mechanic and shift supervisor. In June 2000 John accepted a Civil Service position at what is now referred as AVMI as an Engineering Technician and Quality Assurance and Safety Inspector. He retired for the second time in November 2011 and enjoyed his time doing what he wanted. He enjoyed his bi-annual visits to the casinos in Atlantic City, N.J.; watching NCIS and his other favorite television programs; going to the gym 3 times a week until he was unable to continue; and volunteering.

Johnny was a proud and active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW 2632), Disabled American Veterans (DAV Chapter 26), American Legion, and Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks (ELKS Lodge 2092).

While stationed at Patuxent River, Md., Johnny met and married his wife and best friend, Nancy, in August 1977. They have enjoyed over 37 wonderful years together.

Johnny is survived by his son Ken (Joannah) and 3 granddaughters Elyse, Keeley, and Calista from Lima, Ohio. He is survived by his siblings Ralph (Olga) Perez, Diana (Frank) Cantu, Ana Marie Morgan, Carlos (Hilda) Tobias, Yolanda (Victor) Ponce, Antonio Tobias, and Angela Tobias Aguirre all residing in the San Antonio, Texas area; and his inlaws Andy (Denise) Davis of Portland, OR; Phyllis Leighton of California, Md.; Marjory Holcomb of California, Md.; Linda Davis of Columbia, Md. and Marilyn (Jack) Jannarone of Highland Falls, N.Y. As well as numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He is loved and will be missed by family and friends.

The family will receive friends on Friday, Jan. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. with prayers recited at 7 p.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Leonardtown, Md. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Jan. 10, at 10:30 a.m. in Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church Lexington Park, Md. with Father Marco Schad officiating and Monsignor Michael Wilson concelebrating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery with full military honors.

Kimberly Ann Cox Kimberly Ann Cox entered eternal life on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1. Her spirit is carried by her parents, Lloyd and Sharon Cox, her two sisters, Kathleen and Rebecca, and her extended family of relatives and friends from every walk of life. We were blessed to have Kim for 26 years. She had a positive heart, a sensitive ear, and a gentle soul. Those who were lucky enough to know her shared her gifts in abundance.

Kim was a proud graduate of Penn State University and currently enrolled as a graduate student at Chatham University in Pittsburgh pursuing a Masters degree in Teaching.

Kim dedicated her life to people, especially children. Her work included teaching those who needed reading intervention, working with special needs students at a Charter School, and spearheading major fund raising events for the Penn State Dance Marathon, affectionately known as THON, a pediatric cancer philanthropy that Kim held dear.

In her short lifetime, Kim stayed connected with those she loved. She is survived by her parents and two sisters, her grandmother, Barbara Lawrence, her grandfather, Lloyd G. Cox, Sr., her Aunt Susan Dyer (Uncle Joe, cousin Matthew); Uncle Greg Lawrence (cousins Ashley and Monica); Aunt Nancy Smith (Uncle Leon, cousins Jessica, Kristen, Kelly), Uncle John Lawrence (Aunt Erin, cousins Grady, Ben, Jay), cousin Samantha Lawrence, Uncle John Cox (Aunt Maresha, cousins Austin, Melanie, Alexis, Kensington) and many dear friends that she considered her treasures.

Kim is reunited with her grandmother, Betty Cox, her grandfather, Edward Lawrence, and her Uncle Glenn Lawrence .

The family will greet friends Saturday, Jan. 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in St. Aloysius Catholic Church Leonardtown, Md. The family will also be greeting guests after the Mass at the Avenmar Community Center. A Mass of Life Celebration will follow at 1 p.m. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Penn

State Dance Marathon, a yearlong effort to raise funds and awareness for the fight against pediatric cancer (www.thon.org).

Louise Elizabeth Smith, 87 Louise Elizabeth Smith, 87, of Leonardtown, Md., passed away on Jan. 3 in Leonardtown, Md. Born on May 15, 1927 in Taunton, Mass., she was the daughter of the late Anna Carew and Edward Carew. Louise was the loving wife of the late Albert F. Smith whom she married in Everett, Mass. in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on April 12, 1953, and who preceded her in death on November 6, 1999. Louise met Al in December of 1950 at her best friend Peggy’s wedding, while he was home on leave; he was the love of her life Louise is survived by her children; Judith Tyler (Ken) of Apple Valley, Calif., Patty Smith of Leonardtown, Md., and her grandson Christopher. She was preceded in death by her son Peter Smith and brother Marion Habeeb. She graduated from high school in Everett, Mass. and moved from Seattle, WA to St. Mary’s County in 1978. She was a homemaker. Louise was the best mom anyone could ask for, she gave her children a fantastic childhood and only wanted the best of life for them.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, Jan. 8, from 9 to 10 a.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Leonardtown, Md. A Funeral Service will follow at 10 a.m. in the Funeral Home Chapel with Father David Beaubin officiating. Interment will follow in St. Aloysius Catholic Cemetery Leonardtown, Md. Pallbearers will be; Christopher Smith, Pat Furey, Peter Smith, Chris Smith, Jackie Pope, Eric Pope, Pat Furey, and Rodney Madewell. Contributions may be made to ACTS (A Community that Shares) P.O. Box 54 Bushwood, Md. 20618.

Barbara Joan Campbell, 71 Barbara Joan Campbell, 71, of Lexington Park, Md. passed away on Dec. 27, 2014 in Clinton, Md. Born on July 14, 1943 in Takoma Park, Md., she was the daughter of the late Irene Virginia Campbell and James Harold Campbell. Barbara is survived by her daughters; Kimberly Wathen (Tony) of Hollywood, Md., Laurie Garrison (Ricky) of California, Md., four grandchildren and one great grandchild. Siblings; Harold Campbell (Gail) and Jenny Foley (Mike). Barbara graduated from James Wood high school in 1961. She worked as a Floral Designer and moved from Frederick, Md. to St. Mary’s County, Md. in 1967. Barbara enjoyed crafting, gardening, reading; she was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandma.

The family received friends on Saturday, Jan. 3 from 12 to 1 p.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home; A Funeral Service followed at 1 p.m. in the Funeral Home chapel with Father Eamon Dignan officiating. Interment was held on Monday, Jan. 5, at 12 p.m. in Shenandoah Memorial Park, Winchester, Va.

In Our Community

Cat of the Week

Lover Boy Here!

My name is Lance. I was born in March of 2012. I will let you pick me up and pet me.

I enjoy being petted. I love to play and am very young at heart.

I would love to be a one and only cat but if you have other pets, you could foster me and see how I do with your other pets with no cost to you. If you fall in love with me which I think you will, then you can adopt me and allow me to be a part of your family permanently. I am fully vetted and cost $125.

You can fill out an application at <http://www.feralcatrescuemd.org> and email to moonandhunt@Hotmail.com I am frequently at Petco in California on Saturdays and Sundays which means I am available to meet you although I really don’t like going there and sitting in a cage. I don’t think you really see my personality from meeting me there. If you fostered to adopt me, you would be able to see what a lover I am.

Yours truly, Lance PS Feral Cat Rescue is always looking for volunteers to trap, drive cats to the vet, and do adoption and fund raising events.

Tootsie Roll Drive Raises Funds for Center for Life Enrichment

Hollywood, Md. - On Sunday, Jan. 4, during the Community Breakfast held at St. John’s Catholic Church Monsignor Harris Hall, Center For Life Enrichment Executive Director Randy Ferguson was presented with the net proceeds from the Tootsie Roll Drive.

Each year St. Johns K of C Knights donates every penny collected to the center. We were out and about every weekend in October at many storefronts and through the generosity of the good people of St. Mary’s County we were able to raise over $5,500 for the center this year. The Knights of Columbus want to thank all who donated to a very worthy cause. The center is grateful for your support. We will see everyone again next year with Tootsie Rolls.

The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

20

Leonardtown Family Raising Puppy for Canine Companions for Independence

Puppy ‘Keeper’ will make amazing difference in the life of a person with disabilities

Puppy Raisers take the pups into their home at eight weeks of age, raising them, teaching them basic commands and socialization skills. The socialization is perhaps the most important, because the dogs need to be exposed to any and all types of surroundings.

With the special yellow capes they wear, these dogs are permitted to go to many public areas that family pets aren’t allowed. When the dogs reach about a year and a half old, they are returned to the Canine Companions for Independence regional headquarters in New York. They begin 6 months of advanced training with the organizations nationally renowned instructors, before they are matched with a child or

adult with disabilities.

Canine Companions for Independence is the largest non-profit provider of trained assistance dogs with five regional training centers across the country.

Established in 1975, Canine Companions provides highly trained assistance dogs to children and adults with disabilities and is recognized worldwide for the excellence of its dogs, and quality and longevity of the matches it makes between dogs and people.

There is no charge for the dog, its training and ongoing follow-up services. For more information, visit cci.org or call 1-800-572-BARK.

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

The County Times

Maryland Offers Grants to State and Local Groups for Traffic Safety Glen Burnie, Md. (Jan. 5) – On Jan. truly effective and innovative programs and 7, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Adminis- funding is available to a wide variety of intration’s Highway Safety Office (MHSO) stitutions to help us make our roadways as began taking grant applications for traffic safe as possible.” safety projects to occur in FFY 2016. The State and local government agencies, MHSO is responsible for administering law enforcement agencies, institutions of grant funded programs that address priority higher education, hospitals, associations areas such as impaired driving prevention, and other non-profit and not-for profit occupant protection, aggressive driving groups are encouraged to develop projects prevention, distracted driving prevention, that address the “four Es of highway safety” and the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, mo- – education, enforcement, engineering, and torcyclists, younger drivers and older driv- emergency medical services. Funding is ers. Grants will also be awarded to projects provided on a competitive basis to projects that are focused on improving Maryland’s that are data driven, and to those that impletraffic records systems and record-keeping, ment proven countermeasures with goals of and other projects that enhance the safety of eliminating motor vehicle crashes and the Maryland’s motoring public. associated injuries and fatalities.

“Traffic crashes are one of the leading There are two types of projects availcauses of death throughout a person’s life,” able, one specifically for law enforcement began MVA Administrator and Gover- agencies and a general application. New nor’s Highway Safety Representative, Milt projects must be statewide in nature and Chaffee. “Our goal is to fund projects that specifically correlate to a priority highway help us reach our goal of zero traffic-related safety program area or another identified deaths on Maryland’s roadways.” area such as traffic records. “Pilot” projects Each year since 2009, an average of are permitted provided that the project dem502 people have been killed in traffic crash- onstrates a potential for expansion throughes on Maryland’s roads, and nearly 45,000 out the state. people have been injured. In total there Applications are due by Feb. 27. The have been more than 92,000 crashes each grant funding year begins on Oct. 1 and year and state officials have set a goal of runs through Sept. 30, 2016. eliminating these needless and preventable For more information, please go to tragedies. www.mva.maryland.gov/safety/mhso/ “We cannot achieve ofour goal without or back. contact Community Foundation Southern Maryland highway-safety-grants.htm Looking forward. Giving the help of partners throughout Maryland,” Joyce Kregelka, the MHSO’s Office ManGretchen stated TomHardman, Gianni, Executive Chief of Director the Maryland ager, at 410-787-4050 or via email at jkre240-670-4483 www.cfsomd.org Highway Safety Office.

“Our highway safe- gelka@mdot.state.md.us.

5, 2015 opens the door for some ty January grant funding

In Our Community

Library Items Library Closing for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

All three branches will be closed on Jan. 19 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

STEM at the Library for kids

Children ages 3 to 5 years will read, experiment and create with hands-on science activities. Leonardtown branch will hold Color Mixing on Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Lexington Park branch will hold Pizza Counting and Measuring on Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Charlotte Hall branch will hold Magnet Science on Jan. 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Registration is required and opens two weeks before the program.

Free Introduction to Grant Seeking and Writing Class

The Lexington Park branch will hold an Introduction to Grant Seeking and Writing class on Jan. 22 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.

Participants will use the Foundation Center databases to find sources for grants and review the strategy for applying for grants and leave with enough information to begin grant seeking and writing work. Presented by staff from the library and from the Nonprofit Institute of the College of Southern Maryland. Registration required.

2015 Home School Science Fair

The Home School Science Fair will be held at the Leonardtown branch on Jan. 20. The public is invited to come and see the projects of students K-12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Rain date: Jan. 22.

Mobile

Career

Center

The Southern Maryland JobSource Mobile Career Center will be at the Lexington Park branch on Jan. 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to provide assistance to job seekers.

Peaceful Living

IN A QUIET SETTING, EXCELLENT SCHOOLS

For Immediate Release

Community Foundation of Southern M aryland is A ccepting Proposals for Beautification G rants The Chaney Beautification Fund is making grants available to non-profit organizations to encourage beautiful, sustainable landscapes in Southern Maryland and Virginia. Grants of up to $1,000 are awarded annually to non-profit groups, specifically 501(c)(3) organizations, public or private educational institutions, or government agencies. Beautification projects must be located in counties where Chaney Enterprises has a presence. !

In Maryland, projects in the counties of Anne Arundel, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, southern !"#$%&'(&)"*&+,-'.$/'012'3."4+,'."&'&5#*#65&'7)"'*".$1,2 In Virginia, projects in Caroline County are eligible.

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13 month with 1st FULL month FREE / 25 month with first 2 FULL months FREE!

Guidelines for the Chaney Beautification Fund Grants are available on the Community 8)9$/.1#)$')7'0)91:&"$'3."45.$/+,';&6,#1&'.1'www.cfsomd.org/grants. Applicants are &$%)9".*&/'1)',96<#1'=")>&%1,'1:.1'#$%)"=)".1&'?*"&&$@'*."/&$#$*'=".%1ices, such as water conservation measures, organic fertilizers, and native plant species. Schools may use grants to incorporate beautification projects into the education curriculum.

Grant proposals must be submitted by 5 p.m., February 2, 2015. Grant awards will be $1,000 or less and will be announced in March 2015. Organizations are required to match grant funds with cash or in-kind goods and services. Organizations receiving funds must commit and expend the full amount of the grant by December 1, 2015. Only one application per applicant will be accepted, and applicants are advised to review the guidelines to ensure compliance prior to submitting applications.

QUIET SAFE CONVENIENT

Applications are available online at www.cfsomd.org/grants. For more information, contact Gretchen Hardman, Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Southern Maryland, at 240-670-4483 or at Gretchen@cfsomd.org.

Even you can be a philanthropist. The Community Foundation of Southern Maryland invites local residents with a vision and a passion for community to create something together. For good. Forever. The Community Foundation translates collective giving into bigAlocalAimpact.

Devoted to making Southern Maryland the best place to live and give, the Community Foundation gives everyday people of every income level the opportunity to create and realize the power of an endowment.

-end-

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The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

22

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.

January Month Long Holiday Dreaming Art Show North End Gallery, 41652 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown — 5 to 8 p.m.

The North End Gallery will continue their show “Holiday Dreaming” through the month of January. The busy holidays are coming to a close but you can still spend some special time at the gallery enjoying the works of art presented by the members for your consideration. For more information, visit www.northendgallery.org or call 301-475-3130.

Wednesday, Jan. 7 DAV Auxiliary Meeting VFW Hall, 23282 Three Notch Road, California — 7 p.m.

The Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary is holding its monthly meeting. Our meetings are on the first Wednesday of each month. We are trying to raise our exposure in the community in order to help many more veterans. For more information, call 301-997-1036.

Thursday, Jan. 8 Calvert Conversations Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch, 3819 Harbor Road, Chesapeake Beach — 10 to 11 a.m.

Meet new friends and hear old stories OR meet old friends and hear new stories on local history in a relaxed, fun atmosphere!

For more information, call 410-257-2411 or visit www.calvertlibrary.info.

Friday, Jan. 9 On Pins & Needles Calvert Library Prince Frederick, 850 Costley Way, Prince Frederick — 1 to 4 p.m.

Bring your quilting, needlework, knitting, crocheting, or other project for an afternoon of conversation and shared creativity.

For more information, call 410-535-0291 or 301-855-1862.

Saturday, Jan. 10 Contra Dance Christ Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 37497 Zach Fowler Road, Chaptico — 7 p.m.

A Contra Dance, sponsored by Southern Maryland Traditional Music and Dance (SMTMD), featuring caller Elgin Perry. The doors open at 7 p.m. and the dancing begins at 7:30 p.m. Contra is a traditional American style of social dance and is a huge amount of fun and exercise for the whole family! If you’ve ever danced a Virginia Reel or been to a Square Dance, you have a good idea how much fun it can be. If you haven’t, it’s about time you tried it! Beginners are encouraged to arrive at 7 p.m. to get some instruction in the various dances. Admission is $10 for non-SMTMD members; $6 for members.

Band members are free. No special clothing is required! You need to be comfortable, to move freely. There will be an ice cream social following the dance. For more information and directions go to www.smtmd.org.

Sunday, Jan. 11 All You Can Eat Breakfast Valley Lee Second District Fire Department & Rescue Squad Auxiliary, 45245 Drayden Road, Valley Lee — 8 to 11 a.m.

Cost for adults is $8, children from ages 6 to 12 are $4, and children 5 and under are free; Menu consists of scrambled eggs,

home fried potatoes, pancakes, French toast, sausage links, ham, hot biscuits, creamed chipped beef, spiced applesauce, grits, assorted juices, milk and coffee; For more information call 301-994-9999.

St. Michael’s Thrift Store Reopening St. Michael’s School, 16560 Three Notch Road, Ridge — 9 a.m. to noon The St. Michael’s School Thrift Store, Angel Wings & Things, reopens this Saturday & Sunday with new inventory. There is sure to be something for everyone. Books are free. Directions: Go 11 miles south of Lexington Park, turn left at St. Michael’s School and the store is to the right of St. Michael’s Church. All proceeds go to St. Michael’s School’s tuition assistance fund. For more information, call 301-872-5454.

Fried Chicken Dinner Knights of Columbus 2065, 16441 Three Notch Road, Ridge — 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Knights of Columbus 2065 will sponsor a fried chicken dinner. Carry out dinners until 5 p.m. Cost is $12 - half chicken, mashed potatoes, peas, coleslaw, etc.

Dessert table will be available. For more information, call 301-863-8054.

Monday, Jan. 12 Pax River Quilters Guild Meeting Good Samaritan Lutheran Church, 20850 Langley Road, Lexington Park — 6:30 p.m.

January’s meeting will feature humorist, quilter and blog writer Megan Dougherty.

Visit her website www.megandougherty.net.

Bring a guest and receive something special.

New members and guest welcome. There is a $5 fee for guest on speaker night. Open to the public. For more info, visit www.paxriverquiltguild.com, email juliagraves82@hotmail.com or call 240-925-5200.

Book Discussion Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch, 3819 Harbor Road, Chesapeake Beach — 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Empty Mansions by Bill Dedman and Paul Clark Newell, Jr. The mysterious life of Huguette Clark and the spending of a great American fortune. For more information, call 410-257-2411 or visit www.calvertlibrary.info.

Tuesday, Jan. 13 Flying Needles Calvert Library Southern Branch, 13920 H. G. Trueman Road, Solomons — 7 to 8:45 p.m.

Knitting, crocheting and portable crafting group open to anyone wanting to join in and share talents, crafting time or learn a new skill. For more information, call 410326-5289 or visit www.calvertlibrary.info.

Wednesday, Jan. 14 Playtime Calvert Library Southern Branch, 13920 H. G. Trueman Road, Solomons — 10:20 to 10:50 a.m.

Playtime is learning and discovery time for you and your child. Engage in interactive play, connect with other parents and caregivers, and have fun! Bring a non-battery operated toy to share. No registration. For ages birth through 5 years old. For more information, call 410-326-5289 or visit www. calvertlibrary.info.

LSM Meetings University of Maryland, Charles Re-

gional Medical Center, La Plata — 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

The Leadership Southern Maryland (LSM) Board of Directors announced that they will host an informal breakfast meeting to invite potential candidates to learn more about the benefits of LSM. Board, Alumni and Class 2015 members will be available to share information about the LSM Program and Application Process with interested LSM candidates. For more information, call 240-725-5469.

Thursday, Jan. 15 Lego Mania Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch, 3819 Harbor Road, Chesapeake Beach —6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

For kids from kindergarten to 5th grade. Lego enthusiasts will meet monthly to hear a story followed by a Lego building session. Each session will close with sharing time. Legos supplied by library. This month’s theme: Construction. Please register. For more information, call 410-257-2411 or visit www.calvertlibrary.info.

Friday, Jan. 16 NARFE Luncheon/Meeting Olde Breton Inn, 21890 Society Hill Road, Leonardtown — 11:30 a.m.

The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), St. Mary’s Chapter 969, will host their next Luncheon/Meeting. The cake raffle will also take place at this meeting. Reservations are required; if you have not already confirmed reservations, please contact Bev at 301-7521131 by Wednesday, Jan. 14. The Luncheon/ Meeting begins at 11:30 am, is held at, and includes a full course lunch prepared by Bailey’s Catering Service. Not a member? Contact Geneva Leon for membership details 301-884-5112. Check us out on Facebook and like our page! www.facebook.com/NARFEMD969StMarys. See you at the meeting!

Saturday, Jan. 17 Artists in Action: Artists in the Natural Habitat Annmarie Garden, 13480 Dowell Road, Lusby — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Jan. 17 to March 3 Annmarie’s spectacular Main Gallery will be transformed into artist studios, providing a serene retreat and experimental space for artists to develop new works, display and sell their work, to network with other artists, and to share their creative process with visitors. Come observe artists as they work in their temporary studios at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center.

Visitors can watch, learn, interact and ask questions and even in some cases, become engaged in the project. All artists have been asked to create a hands-on experience for guests. Some options include inviting guests to experiment with your materials and/or process, or to design a collaborative work of art that guests will help create. For additional information call 410-326-4640.

National Federation of the Blind Meeting Charlotte Hall Library, 37600 New Market Road, Charlotte Hall — 11 a.m.

The Tri-County Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind will be meeting.

Sunday, Jan. 18 Kids Make & Take a Snowflake!

Bayside History Museum, 4025 4th Street, North Beach — 2 p.m.

Families come to spend the afternoon creating a flurry of take-home craft snowflakes, hear a snowy story and see old-time pictures of the Twin Beaches in wintertime!

Ages 3+, children must be accompanied by an adult. $5 per child for supplies.Registration is required due to limited space. For more information or to register, contact baysidechildrensprograms@hotmail.com or 301-855-4028 or visit www.baysidehistorymuseum.org.

Monday, Jan. 19 Octopus Day Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fun for all ages! Hear octopus fact talks at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., watch the octopus interact with toys, make a craft, play games and hear octopus stories. Free with museum admission. For more information, call 410-326-2042.

Bluegrass at Cracker Barrel Cracker Barrel 45315 Abell House Lane, California – 6 to 8 p.m.

A concert at Cracker Barrel featuring the Bluegrass Gospel Express. For more information, call Jerry at 240-925-5613.

Special Black History Tours Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons — 10:30 a.m.

Join us in the Maritime History Hall at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. For more information call 410-326-2042.

Tuesday, Jan. 20 Flying Needles Calvert Library Southern Branch, 13920 H. G. Trueman Road, Solomons — 7 to 8:45 p.m.

Knitting, crocheting and portable crafting group open to anyone wanting to join in and share talents, crafting time or learn a new skill. For more information, call 410326-5289 or visit www.calvertlibrary.info.

Wednesday, Jan. 21 Playtime Calvert Library Southern Branch, 13920 H. G. Trueman Road, Solomons — 10:20 to 10:50 a.m.

Playtime is learning and discovery time for you and your child. Engage in interactive play, connect with other parents and caregivers, and have fun! Bring a non-battery operated toy to share. No registration. For ages birth through 5 years old. For more information, call 410-326-5289 or visit www. calvertlibrary.info.

Thursday, Jan. 22 Little Minnows Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons — 10 to 11 a.m.

Ocean Animals! Octopus, otter, osprey and oyster are just a few of the animals that live in or near the ocean. Could you open a box with suction cups or stay dry without a raincoat? Let’s do some experiments to see how these animals adapt to ocean living.

For children 3 – 5 years old and their caregivers. CMM members are now free: $5 for non-members. For more information, call 410-326-2042.

23

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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24

Entertainment

A Fun, Dry Night Out

By Madeleine Buckley Contributing Writer Do you need to be drinking to have a good time? To socialize? At the Upper Room Connections Café, they think not.

“Where do you go to meet people? You go to a bar. And for a lot of people that’s just not where they want to be or what they want to do,” said Terri Palmer.

Palmer is one of the founders of the Connections Café, an alcohol-free option for Friday nights, hosted by the Hollywood Church of the Nazarene.

“We’re a late-night weekend venue,” said cofounder Craig Haskell. “We have a bar-like atmosphere where you can shoot pool, listen to music, hang out, and have that social bar feel. We just don’t serve alcohol, that’s all.”

While it is hosted at a church, the event is intended for the community as a whole.

“We make it so it’s not in your face,” Palmer said. “We are still a religious establishment, but it’s not the first thing we’re talking about. We’re not going to be pulling out the Bible; we’re not going to be Bible-thumping.”

The event is intended to cater to a wide variety of ages and audiences.

“It benefits people who might have a history with alcohol and need a social place to go, but it’s not just geared to that,” Haskell said. “It’s also geared to people who are just trying to get away from the alcohol.”

In addition to being alcohol-free, the café is completely free of charge. They do have a jar for donations, but there is no obligation.

“A lot of people will go to a local restaurant for karaoke or something, but of course when you go to those places you have to spend money,” said Junell Zambrano, Haskell’s fiancé and a regular at the café.

“For some people it’s like, ‘Do I have money to go hang out tonight?’ whereas we are providing a venue where people can come, have a great time and kick it with new people without worrying about spending $50 or $100.”

One frequent feature of the Connections Café is live music.

“We have either someone booked to do a set, or we’ll have people get up and do some songs as more of an open-mic night,” Haskell said. “A lot of people just feel free to bring their instruments in. The idea is just to be a venue.”

In addition to having musicians, they often stream football games or show movies. Sometimes they even book special performances like stand-up comedian Matt Merchant, an L.A.-based entertainer who is originally from the area.

“I already feel like a regular,” Merchant said after one performance at the Connections Café.

“It’s warm and very inviting, and everybody is very supportive. The aspect that I have to use only clean material is a fun new challenge, but to have people here who just want to be here and are enjoying themselves is great.”

In addition to entertainment, the café offers free refreshments for guests.

“We always serve food,” Palmer said. “Also anything that’s alcoholic, like pina coladas or strawberry daiquiris, we make non-alcoholic. I’m a bartender, sort of… the dry bartender. We can even do mudslides without the booze.”

Currently, the café has an average of about 30 attendants, but the numbers continue to grow.

“There really isn’t anywhere else in the area that does something like this,” Haskell said. “So as word has been spreading, we’ve been having really good reactions and a lot of new people are checking it out.”

“It doesn’t matter if people come here for the first time or if they’ve been coming here for a while,” Zambrano said. “We treat everyone like family, and everyone is welcome.”

The Upper Room Connections Café is open every Friday night starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, contact Palmer at 301-844-8082, or visit the community calendar at www.somd.com for weekly updates.

College student Kyle Kessler sets up his guitar. While he is not able to come when he is at school, he makes a point to visit the Connections Café when he is home on break. “I like the chill atmosphere,” Kessler said. “It’s the only place really in St. Mary’s like this, where you can have pool, ping-pong, and Wi-Fi. It’s probably the most café like place that we have.”

“So we kind of started out downstairs and in April we decided hey look we have the space let’s move it completely away from sanctuary.” (Palmer) “The premise is to reach out; to offer something different and not a bar. It’s safe, and it’s something that’s not gonna drain your finances.” (Palmer) “Basically the whole heart behind the Connection Café is to connect people to each other in fellowship, and to be a positive influence in the community here in St. Mary’s County. And we are here answer some of the questions that they may have.” (Zambrano) Comedian Matt Merchant performs his stand-up routine for the second week in a row at the Connections Café. “Craig pulled me up on stage and he stayed,” Merchant said. “He and I just ripped for about 10 or 15 minutes. We were just telling stories and reminiscing about how we both grew up here.”

contributing@countytimes.net

Photos by Madeleine Buckley

25

Thursday, January 8, 2015

The County Times

n O g Goin

In Entertainment

Now Arriving

Thursday, Jan. 8

Mercy Creek Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 9 Tracy Allen Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7:30 p.m.

Hate the Toy Anthony’s Bar and Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Blvd., Dunkirk) – 9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 10 Not So Modern Jazz Quartet The Westlawn Inn (9200 Chesapeake Ave., North Beach) – 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 12 Team Trivia Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 13 DJ Spitfire Memories Bar (2360 Old Washington Road, Waldorf) – 9 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 14 Open Mic Night Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m.

SpriNg LAwN & pAtio

FurNiture At outlet Discount pricing

Wolf’s Blues Jam Londontowne Pub (726 Londontowne Road, Edgewater) – 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 15 Swamp Candy Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 16 Warren Drive Anthony’s Bar and Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Blvd., Dunkirk) – 9 p.m.

DJ Dave Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 8 p.m.

Shegogue, Previti, and Hart The Westlawn Inn (9200 Chesapeake Ave., North Beach) – 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 17 Karaoke Applebee’s (45480 Miramar Way, California) – 9 p.m.

Creole Gumbo Jazz Band The Westlawn Inn (9200 Chesapeake Ave., North Beach) – 7:30 p.m.

Trust Divided Memories Bar (2360 Old Washington Road, Waldorf) – 9 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 19 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. Mandela’s party 4. Gives up territory 9. Yellow edible Indian fruit 11. Storefront coverings 14. King of Huns 15. Atomic #18 16. Jive talk for ignored 18. D. Tartt’s third novel 23. Three-toed sloth 24. Gained through effort 25. Macaw’s genus 26. Helps little firms 27. A large group of pheasants 28. Baby bed 29. English dictionary (abbr.)

30. Yellow-fever mosquitos 32. Liquify 34. Add a supplement 38. Insistence on traditional correctness 39. Milk, butter & cheese 40. = to 10 amperes 43. Mined mineral 44. Greek god of war 45. Don’t know when yet 48. Fellow 49. Detailed criteria for a piece of work

50. Special Spanish dish 53. Atomic #46 54. CBS This Morning hostess 56. Rubber tree genus 58. Pa’s partner 59. A tiny bubble in glass 60. Lost light 63. Surface boundary 64. Islands 65. = to 1/100 yen

CLUES DOWN

1. Subside in intensity 2. __ Hale, Am. revolutionary 3. Leafstalk herbaceous plant 4. Price of a ride 5. 1/2 an em 6. Execute or perform 7. Narrative poems 8. Breathe deeply and heavily 10. 1/40 inch button measure 11. Morally reprehensible person 12. For instance 13. Members of U.S. Navy 17. Crown 19. Old English 20. Libyan dinar 21. Goddess of the rainbow 22. Catch

26. Fern spore mass clusters 28. Music disc 30. All without specification 31. -__, denotes past 32. A young canine 33. Biblical Sumerian city 34. __ Hitler 35. Marched in a procession 36. Patchy in color 37. Trauma center 38. Time after midday 40. The expanse of a surface 41. Develops into 42. Equally 44. 4th month (abbr.)

45. Nervous & taut 46. Emits blood 47. Assert without proof 49. Saturates in liquid 50. No. Italian river 51. Article 52. Mayflower cooper John 54. Filippo __, Saint 55. Begetter 57. Old Dominion state 61. Raised railroad track 62. Point midway between N and E

Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions

Thursday, January 8, 2015

e i d d i K Kor

ner

Games

The County Times

26

27

The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Bleachers A View From The

The Consequence Of Ego

By Ronald N. Guy Jr.

Where were you on March 28, 1994? I was enjoying spring break – a now long-gone concept in my much too adult life – with the spirit of Jimmy Buffett at the Southernmost Point of these great (continental) United States. I was nibbling on sponge cake and watching the sun bake. The effervescence of boiling shrimp was all around. While sitting on the porch swing an acoustic guitar strummed in my head and I debated getting a brand new tattoo. I lamented my busted flip-flop and dressed the cut on my heel delivered cour-

tesy of a stray pop-top. For the life of me, I couldn’t find that lost shaker of salt. I was in such a good mood that even though my buddy swore a woman was to blame, I freely admitted it was my own fault. The polygraph test has nothing on a few margaritas, I suppose.

I was in Key West on that long ago March day. My precise memory isn’t because my trip to the little latitudes was unforgettable or the result of my behavior prompting an encounter with local law enforcement; I know of my whereabouts because, while cruising down Route 1 with warm, rejuvenating south Florida air blowing through my window, the radio man announced that Jimmy Johnson, coach of the Super Bowl champion Dallas Cowboys, had stepped down.

SPORTS

It was a good day to be a Cowboys hater. In late March 1994, Dallas was just two months removed from a second consecutive Super Bowl title and was poised to become the greatest dynasty in the history of pro football. Nothing could stop them – except themselves.

Despite the team’s success and opportunity to rewrite history, owner Jerry Jones and Johnson couldn’t find a way to co-exist.

Not even Big D was large enough to house their massive egos. The struggle for power and acclaim forced a divorce that weakened the Cowboys and nudged Johnson from a coaching perch he would never recapture.

It is one of the great “what if’s” in sports history.

George Santayana once wrote, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” The recent split between the San Francisco 49ers and head coach Jim Harbaugh indicates both parties have poor memories. While not the equivalent of Johnson’s seismic departure from Dallas, the Harbaugh-San Francisco divorce is similar in this telling respect: it had nothing to do with football.

Entering this past season, Harbaugh had led the 49ers to three straight NFC Championship Games and one Super Bowl.

Despite that envious record, the 49ers nearly traded Harbaugh in the offseason, a botched move that ultimately undermined the coach and contributed to a substandard 2014 season (San Francisco finished 8-8). Harbaugh wasn’t unemployed long; the one-time University of Michigan quarterback signed a lucrative deal to coach the Wolverines. San

Francisco’s search for his replacement is ongoing.

Elite coaches are rare; NFL teams scramble to find them. Strong organizations and talented rosters are few; coaches long to work in such environments. Sustained success in the NFL is maddeningly elusive; it is professional nirvana for those in the football business. Jimmy Johnson and Dallas had found it; so too had Jim Harbaugh and San Francisco. All of the above had exactly what they wanted and it wasn’t enough - fascinating commentary on all involved.

An endeavor comprised of competitive, successful, strong and opinionated human beings is going to be combustible. Discomfort will be frequent. It will have untenable moments. But if the desired outcome is achieved, it is incumbent upon the individuals to accept the personally frustrating aspects – organizational authority, credit for the success or the allocation of pay – for prosperity’s sake. If self-importance rules, if there is no ability for the human components to yield, to listen and to compromise, you get the Cowboys of March 1994 and, it seems, the 49ers of December 2014.

Jim Harbaugh may find his utopia at Michigan. The next 49ers coach might do the only thing Harbaugh didn’t - win a Super Bowl. History, however, indicates that neither party will be as successful apart as they were together. The consequence of ego is realized…again.

Send comments to RonaldGuyJr@yahoo.com.

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

Forest Stewardship Forest land is important to the overall health of the Chesapeake Bay. Forests provide several layers, from the canopy to the forest floor, that act as filters, improve water quality, reduce sedimentation, remove nutrients, and regulate stream flow during storms.

Maryland’s 2.5 million acres of forest, most of it privately owned, cover approximately 42% of its land area. St. Mary’s County’s land area is about 50% forested, and has more than 400 miles of shoreline. Wooded buffers along these shorelines are critical to improving Bay health. Acre for acre, forested lands produced the least amount of runoff and pollution. The County occupies a forest transitional zone, where the dominant tree species vary from oak/ hickory to tulip poplar to sweet gum/red maple and loblolly pine.

Forests can be harvested on a sustainable basis for materials, including structural lumber, crates, shelving and furniture, flooring, mulch, and pulp for paper. Forests can, in most cases, provide these products while

Plant a Tree

County residents with questions about woodland stewardship and management, as well as timber harvesting, should contact a certified forester. The State of Maryland maintains a database of private Licensed Professional Foresters (LPFs), who work cooperatively with

My B

acky

ard

A Improv St. Ma ing Oury’s Cou r Env nty Res ironme ide nt and nt’s Gu Drin ide to king Water

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also maintaining and even enhancing wildlife habitat, recreational activities, and soil conservation. Timber harvests are closely monitored by a partnership of agencies, including St. Mary’s Soil Conservation District and St. Mary’s County Department of Land Use and Growth Management.

Go to trees.maryland.gov for information on planting trees. There is a Recommended Tree List for the program Marylanders Plant Trees. There is a $25.00 coupon on the website for purchasing a tree. However, the tree must be on the eligible list of trees. There are 14 small trees, or 29 large trees on the list that is updated periodically.

From

the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Service to assist landowners with implementation of timber harvests. Lists of LPFs can be found at the DNR Web site below.

Where to get help with…

FOREST STEWARDSHIP QUESTIONS • Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources, dnr.maryland.gov/forests/

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

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!

The County Times

28

CLASSIFIEDS Placing An Ad

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

Real Estate 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.

Home for Sale

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

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Important Information

Publication Days

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

Employment

Employment

Deliver Phone Books Work Your Own Hours

13.16/Hour + Commission

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

Office Furniture Installer, Part-Time/Full-Time, Immediate Opening, $9.50-$15,00 per hour, depending on experience.

Call 410-474-7552 to apply.

HELP WANTED

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

FOO

action1000homesforsale.com

Employment

PART-TIME MUSEUM STORE MANAGER POSITION OPEN 20 HOURS PER WEEK $14.54 / HOUR To split hours between St. Clement's Island and Piney Point Lightouse Museums Duties include but are not limited to inventory management; product development; purchasing; stocking; clerking and all aspects of museum store management and operations.

Position closes January 16, 2015.

TWEAR

To apply call 301-769-3235 and leave your name and contact information.

Located at 2971 Plaza Dr., Dunkirk, MD (Walmart Giant S/C) Between Game Stop and B.ofA.

240-317-5088

Your Local Community News Source

Locally Owned

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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

On Newsstands Every Thursday

1

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

29

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Business

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

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

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PAINTING You Can Get

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

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St. Mary’s Department of Aging Programs and Activities Tai Chi for Arthritis: The Core Movements The Tai Chi for Arthritis program developed by Dr. Paul Lam, uses gentle Sun-style Tai Chi routines that are safe, easy to learn and suitable for every fitness level. The Tai Chi program helps to reduce stress, increase balance and flexibility, and improve your overall mind, body and spirit. During the six week session at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Wednesdays, Jan. 21 – Feb. 25 from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., participants will learn warmup and cool-down exercises, six basic core movements, and direction changes to add challenge. Due to the nature of this class, attendance at all sessions is highly recommended and no walk-ins will be accepted; advance sign up is required. To register, call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050.

Simplify Your Life and Home in 2015 On Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 10:30 a.m. at the Garvey Senior Activity Center, Ariele

SENIOR LIVING

Stromberg, owner of Control the Clutter, LLC and Professional Organizer, will teach participants how to organize, show and demonstrate helpful storage solutions, and share ideas for what to do with things to be purged. Maybe you have made the New Year’s Resolution to tackle that ever expanding food storage container cabinet, or the home office, garage or closet; during this presentation you will be given the skills you need to organize and free your life of clutter. There is no fee for this class; however, advance sign up is required. Call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050.

Beginner’s Piano/Keyboard class coming up Dr. Robert L. Jefferson, the author of the “How to Play Gospel” book series and a leading expert on teaching gospel music (check out his website at Jeffersonpresents. 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 six

sessions and includes instruction, texts and corresponding CD. 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 six 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 wellbeing. The Loffler Senior Activity Center will be conducting a six-week workshop on how to manage your chronic condition. The class will meet at the center on Thursdays, Jan. 29 – Mar. 5. This is an evidence-based program that was developed

by Stanford University to help people with chronic conditions take charge of their life by developing self-management skills, including dealing with depression and

fatigue, pain management, working with health care providers and more. If you have a chronic condition and are serious about improving the way you feel, this is the workshop for you. There is no charge for taking this class, however, a commitment to regular attendance is needed for good results. For more information or to sign up call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658, by January 22.

Scrapbooking your Special Moments The Northern Senior Activity Center has two upcoming scrapbooking events in January. The Scrapbooking Marathon will be Thursday, Jan. 15 at 9 a.m. and is designed for scrapbookers who bring their own supplies and use the scheduled time to work on projects done alongside other enthusiasts. For beginners, the Scrapbook Intro class is a great option. It will be Tuesday Jan. 20 at 9 am and you receive a holiday 8x8 kit to work on for just $5 which is due Friday, Jan.16.

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.

Jeremiah Herbert and Family, Pt. I Jeremiah Herbert, son of Joseph Herbert and Monica Drury, was born about 1798 in St. Mary’s County The family moved to Charles County prior to 1810 where Joseph died (ca 1811) and Monica died (ca 1818).

About 1827 Jeremiah married the first of his five wives (name unknown). Children: Joseph Thomas (1827-1893); Caroline (1830-aft. 1850); Martha Ann (1832-1889) who married John Kelly; and Jane M. (1834-1866) who married Richard Payne, Jr. The second wife was Arietta Latimer whom he married about July 1839. They had two sons: William Herbert (1840-1864) who enlisted for one year in the 1st Maryland Infantry at Richmond in 1861 and then re-enlisted in 1862 in the 2nd Maryland Infantry. He died of wounds at Petersburg, Virginia on October 1, 1864.

James Robert Herbert (1842-1864). Like his brother, he too served first in the 1st Maryland Infantry and then in the 2nd. On June 3, 1864 he was wounded in battle and ad-

A Journey Through Time The

mitted to the hospital in Richmond where he died of disease on July 8.

On January 15, 1863 James wrote: “Dear Sister, I take this opportunity in writing you a few lines, Martha I am sorry to say that I am a prisoner at this time. I was taken at Strasbuge hospittle on the 21st of December, I am now at Winder hospittle in Richmond, I expect to stay here until I am exchange. I expect to be exchange in three weeks time. Martha I have seen a very hard time of it. We have not even had a tent for four months to put our heads in. We have been sleeping out on the ground at the time. Martha when you answer my letter direct it to Rod Wotsson Richmon Va, and he will know where I am you can just ask him to send it to me. Our bitallion is now station in the valley near New Market. I left it on the 11 of this month. We have been at most march to death the last two months. I want you to write and let me know how everything is going on over there with

Chronicle

all of the negros has left or not. I heard that I was drafted, I want you to let me know how everything is going on.

Marthaan Kelly and my Self has written home three or four times and has never heard from there yet. Billy is very well he was when I left him. How was Mary when you heard from her?

I must now close my letter by bading you farewell.

Give my love to all of my friends. Does Mrs Wiggs still live there give my love to her and tell her I miss her a great deal for mending my own clothes I have them to mend my self.

They seem to think over here that we will have ??? in three months time.

Goodbye I trust in thy Lord that I may live to see you all once more. Goodbye. I remain your affectionate Brother. James R. Herbert.” (Courtesy, Shannon Kennedy).

To be continued.

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

Wanderings of an

Aimless

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“Living in a Fairy Tale World Every Day” You know, every day is like a fairy tale for me. It’s wonderful, I get up around 3 a.m. or so. I read, play on facebook, piddle around the house maybe, stretch out on the couch to maybe get rest, maybe go back to bed for a while…and just as I get comfy, I realize I truly am living in a fairy tale… and it’s Hansel and Gretel written by the Brothers Grimm. You know the gist of the story, Hansel and Gretel’s father was a kind woodcutter whose first wife died. He then marries an overbearing, evil stepmother (boy stepmothers get a bad rap – I hope I am a nice stepmother) who pushes him to take his children to the forest so there will be more to eat for her and her husband. The story is set in a time of famine. The woodcutter for some reason agrees to this scheme, but is unaware that his children have overheard the plan. Hansel is prepared with pebbles to drop along the way into the forest, and the children find their way back the first time. The second time the wife persuades the husband to take his children into the forest, Hansel brings bread crumbs, but of course they are all eaten by the birds. The children are led to a beautiful cottage made of candy by a beautiful white bird and held captive by the wicked witch. Hansel outsmarts her and she becomes a pile of ashes in her stove, the children and father reunite after their father’s wife has died and they live happily ever after.. This is actually a terrifying story even to me now. I started reading this to my Grandson Liam a few months ago, and thought, “Oh my gosh – this is scary” and quit reading it to him. Liam was only about 18 months old at the time and falling asleep so he had no clue as to the horror of this story. But I did read all these stories to my sons.

Okay now how does this fictionalized fairy tale relate to my life, and where does it diverge you ask? Well, back to my tale of trying to get comfortable aside from my normal pains. Sometimes I might get that one great position and I might still be restlessly seeking that cold spot or warm spot for my feet when all of a sudden I come across something sharp, or lots of little things that are sharp in the bed. Or if I am on the couch I might all of a sudden feel like The Princess and the Pea, another favorite fairy tale and all of a sudden feel like I am laying on a softball when in fact it is a stray piece or two of popcorn. I have found that the little sharp pieces of dangerous rubble in the bed are the leftovers from peanuts and crackers and granola and even chocolate. Yes, I live with a compulsive snacker who leaves a trail of crumbs wherever he goes. He earns his snacks and as many of them as he wants that’s for sure – I don’t begrudge him any of it. He chops wood, unloads it, and fixes things here and at our church a few days each week – so he burns lots of energy and calories. Once in a while I do give an exasperated sigh, and he looks at me and says, “Would you rather I start smoking again?” No, he quit 14 years ago when we met.

Just last week, my husband was munching on chocolate chip cookies that left a trail of cookie crumbles and dust from the kitchen to the dining room to the the coffee table by the phone to the couch.

Tidbit was busy trying to hide the trail as best she could, but she couldn’t reach what was on the table or on the couch. It was easy to see everywhere he had been. Tidbit just waits in a low crouching position near where he is eating, ready to pounce on a crumb before my husband gets it. There is no 3 second rule for my husband. It is free game at all times and he usually wins. It is similar to the other children’s story about “How the Grinch stole Christmas” in that he left nothing at all not even the crumb for the mouse.

Where the fairy tale diverges from life in our house is that we don’t have birds following my husband around inside the house cleaning up his crumbs – just Tidbit, and she is in the fight of her life. So, don’t feel jealous that you might not live the fairy tale life that I do – I guess that’s just the way the cookie crumbles.

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

The County Times

What “Type” Are Your Calories?

By Debra Meszaros CSN www.MXSportsNutrition.com

ements? That would mean water, protein, and fats, would be a focal. Carbohydrates would be the lowest denominator.

Something to consider How well your digestive system functions determines how all calories are utilized. If any organ or gland within your digestive system is faulty, poor metabolic function develops. Once over the age of twenty, the digestive system begins to decline, and the absorption and utilization of nutrients suffers.

To counteract this decline, supplementing with digestive enzymes is commonly used.

So if you want to avoid tipping the scale in the wrong direction, strike a balance!

Is weight management really ‘calories in vs. calories out’?

Could the “type” of calories mean more than the amount?

What are the “real” essentials to maintain your health and weight?

The majority of people today, including some doctors and fitness professionals, believe the way to maintain health and proper body weight is to count calories. Diet is actually much more complex ©2013 Debra Meszaros MXSportsNutrition.com. All rights than that; one must be able to determine the types of calories and most importantly, how the body re- reserved; no duplication without permission.

DISCLAIMER: When you read through the diet and lifestyle acts when they are consumed. information, you must know that everything within it is for inforDigestion, the key to calorie types mational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for We’ve all heard how important water and be- advice from your physician or other health care professional. I ing hydrated means to the human body; hence the am making no attempt to prescribe any medical treatment. You reason it is the body’s most important element. should not use the information here for diagnosis or treatment of Protein is the second most important element. Pro- any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other The products and the claims made about specific prodtein is not just for building muscle. Once proteins treatment. ucts have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug are reduced to amino acids, protein is used for nu- Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or merous functions in the body; glucose (fuel) for en- prevent disease. You should consult with a healthcare professional ergy, overall cellular function, and to produce the before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, body’s hormones. It takes the work of your stom- before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might ach and your small intestine to fully digest protein. have a health problem. Confirm the safety of any supplements with M.D., N.D. or pharmacist (healthcare professional). Some It may surprise you that fats are third on the your information given is solely an opinion, thought and or conclusion list of important elements to the body; they are based on experiences, trials, tests, assessments or other available indeed a source for the highest concentration of sources of information. I do not make any guarantees or promises available energy. Due to their concentration, they with regard to results. I may discuss substances that have not been take longer than proteins or carbohydrates to di- subject to double blind clinical studies or FDA approval or regugest. Fats are not digested in the stomach. It takes lation. You assume the responsibility for the decision to take any remedy. the work of the pancreas and gallbladder to reduce naturalYou and only you are responsible if you choose to do anyfats to smaller molecules of fatty acids. These fatty thing with the information you have read. You do so at your own acids will travel through the body and either used risk. I encourage you to make your own health decisions based by your muscles for energy, help keep your cells upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care “plump” so nutrients can pass into your cells easi- professional. er, or be stored for later use.

So that leaves the most widely consumed food group, carbohydrates as the final element. Interestingly, the three groups of carbohydrates: monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides, all process differently in the body. How let us help you reach your health goals! well you chew a carbohydrate · International Wellness Company determines how much you may or may not stress the body to di· 34 years - NYSE - 88 Countries around the world gest them. That’s because diges· Improve your own health tion of carbohydrates begins in your mouth, not your stomach. · Help people to lose/gain and maintain weight, It takes the work of your mouth have more energy & vitality and small intestine to digest carbohydrates. The secret danger to · Entrepreneurial minded individuals a plus!! carbohydrates is how fast they · Part time around what you are already doing are converted to glucose and hit the bloodstream. Excess glucose or FULL time career change not utilized travels to the liver · All training and support provided and is either used by the liver or stored. The liver loves to turn · Design your own life - determine your own excess glucose into cholesterol, income triglycerides, or other forms of fat. · Be part of a Mission for Nutrition and Striking a balance Join our TEAM Eating too much of one “type” of calories can lead · 7 streams of income to overeating; and the “type” most likely to do this is carboHealth and Wellness Opportunities! hydrates. With all the different Please Visit: dietary plans out there today www.reactivelifestyle.com confusion can set in easily; but Or Call: what if you decided to create a 301.769.1177 dietary balance taking into conreactivelifestyle@gmail.com sideration the most important elfor an appointment and take control of your life!

The County Times

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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