2015-02-05 St. Mary's County Times

Thursday, february 5, 2015

www.countytimes.somd.com

Buttons, Beads and More

Lexington Park Library Art Gallery Posthumously Honors Founder Photo by Sarah Miller

Story Page 14

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

2

Thursday February 5, 2015 “All in all if we can encourage, especially small businesses, to expand we have to give this serious consideration. We have to chip away at the disincentives to doing businesses in Southern Maryland.”

18

14

Free InItIal ConsultatIon

Weather

Watch

The law offices of P.a. Hotchkiss & associates Providing Excellent Service For Over 20 Years

Auto Accidents Workers’ comp • Divorce/Separation • Support/Custody • Domestic Violence • Criminal/Traffic • DWI/MVA Hearings Power of Attorney • Name Change • Adoption • Wills • Guardianship

Scan this “Times Code” with your smart phone Accepting: 99 Smallwood Dr. Waldorf, MD • 206 Washignton Ave. LaPlata, MD

SERVING CHARLES • ST. MARY’S • PG • CALVERT

(301) 932-7700 (301) 870-7111

Do You Feel Crabby When You Get Your Insurance Bill in the Mail? Give Us A Call.

You’ll Be Glad You Did.

Gary Simpson, Matt Laidley, Katie Facchina 7480 Crain Highway • La Plata, MD 20646 301-934-8437

An Independent Agent Representing: ERIE INSURANCE GROUP Standing: Dan Burris, Jake Kuntz, Seated: Lisa Squires, Susan Ennis, Donna Burris

April Hancock PO Box 407 Bryans Road, MD 20616 301-743-9000

Burris’ Olde Towne Insurance Auto - Home - Business - Life

Leonardtown, MD • Bus: (301) 475-3151 www.danburris.com

- Chamber of Commerce CEO Bill Scarafia on a bill that would exempt many county businesses from the personal property tax.

4 Local News 9 Cops & Courts 10 Marriage Licenses 11 Letters 12 Education 14 Feature 16 Obituaries 18 Business 20 Community 21 Library Calendar 22 Sports 23 Home 24 Community Calendar 26 Entertainment 26 Entertainment Calendar 27 Games 28 Classifieds Business Directory 29 30 Senior 30 History 31 Contributing Writers

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

www.countytimes.net

For staff listing and emails, see page 13.

3

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Savings you’ll love...

JEWEL BOX WINE ASSORTED VARIETIES 3 LITER

BAREFOOT BUBBLY

$18

MIA DOLCEA MOSCATO D’ASTI 750ML

2/$22

KINKY LIQUEUR ASSORTED VARIETIES 750ML

$16

99

BAILEY’S CHOCOLATE CHERRY LIQUEUR 750ML

$1999

99

ASSORTED VARIETIES 750ML

2/$20

TORLASCO MOSCATO D’ASTI 750ML

$1499

2/$20

BARENTURA WINE ASSORTED VARIETIES 750ML

2/$22 DI’AMORE AMARETTO

ASSORTED VARIETIES 750ML

750ML

$2699 TEQUILA ROSE LIQUEUR 750ML

$1199 DU CLAW BEER DIRTY LITTLE FREAK & BARE ASS BLONDE ALE 6PK BOTTLES

$899

$19

99

LEINENKUGEL BEER

$799

$7

ASSORTED VARIETIES 6PK BOTTLES

99

MCKAY’S

CHARLOTTE HALL PRICES EFFECTIVE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 THRU THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2015

www.mckayssupermarkets.com DAVE MCKAY LIQUORS

ASSORTED VARIETIES 1.5LTR

GODIVA LIQUEUR

REDD’S ALE

ASSORTED VARIETIES 6PK BOTTLES

SUTTER HOME WINES

BUD, BUD LIGHT, MILLER LIGHT & COORS LIGHT 30PK CANS

$20

99

Local

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

4

NEWS

Personal Property Tax Bill Could Bring Relief to Local Businesses

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Del. Matt Morgan’s proposal to exempt many St. Mary’s County businesses from paying personal property taxes could save some entrepreneurs hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, but it could also remove much needed funds from the county’s tax rolls.

The bill, already entered for consideration in Annapolis, would exempt every business in the county from paying taxes on equipment, except equipment used to operate a railroad, public utility, cable television service or telecommunications service, cellular phone towers and items attached to them.

The county has about $156 million in assessable base for personal property and takes in about $3 million each year.

The fiscal 2015 budget currently funding the county’s operation already reports the revenue stream provided by the personal property tax has dwindled by 2.9 percent.

As county elected leaders begin to formulate the fiscal 2016 budget, they still have to come up with money to cover a $3.6 million deficit for the current budget.

The delegate has offered the bill as a way to remove significant tax burdens from businesses; County Commissioner Todd Morgan said the bill could have other effects to the county’s bottom line.

“I understand where he’s coming from. But, is it something we can afford,” Todd Morgan said.

Because the bill exempts certain businesses the county would still be able to collect some personal property taxes so it would not lose all of the $3 million in revenue.

Morgan’s bill also staggers the implementation of the bill so tax revenue would not be relinquished all at once.

Proponents of the bill said it would benefit all businesses big and small in St. Mary’s County and was a breath of fresh air in a state not known for its friendliness to business.

Commissioner Tom Jarboe said the personal property tax represented bad law in the first place.

“It absolutely does nothing for business,” Jarboe said. “It’s one of the biggest problems with Maryland. It’s a non-business friendly culture.

“They [the state] do it because they can get away with it.”

There has been no analysis at the state level as to the economic impacts for businesses or the county government, but Jarboe admitted the cost to the county could sting. However the benefits in the longterm of the change in tax policy would be significant.

“It’s going to hurt in the short term, but that doesn’t mean you perpetuate bad tax law,” Jarboe said.

The rescinding of the personal property tax was also key to another of the county’s long term goals: to diversify the economy away from total dependence on the defense industry.

“It sends a super positive message,” Jarboe said. “If you want to diversify into [making] products and not just services you can’t have those kind of taxes.

“It drives people away.”

Bill Scarafia, CEO of the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce, said the bill also represented a major shift in thought in Annapolis.

He said he could not remember a time when there was actually an incentive for businesses in general other than to woo a specific entity to the state.

Scarafia did not expect passing the bill would mean new businesses would come to the county, but he did expect those already here to get some much needed relief.

“All in all, if we can encourage, especially small businesses, to expand we have to give this serious consideration,” Scarafia said. “We have to chip away at the disincentives to doing businesses in Southern Maryland.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

5

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Local

LET’S INTERIORSCAPE YOUR HOME

It’s winter in the garden, so let’s redecorate the indoors now with houseplants & indoor blooming plants.

NEWS

Episcopal Priest Pushing for Papal Visit

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Fr. John Ball, rector of the St. Mary’s Parish of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, is trying to boost support among elected leaders, local and national, to persuade Pope Francis to take a detour to St. Mary’s City when he comes to visit the Washington, D.C. area in September.

In a letter to the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, Ball laid out the reasons a papal visit was a justifiable use of the pontiff’s time.

“There are many elements of our local history that would justify a papal visit,” Ball wrote.

“The pope’s interest in ecumenism, St. Mary’s City being the birthplace of religious tolerance, the first Catholic settlement in the United States and the Jesuit connection.”

Ball said he is only trying to test whether local officials are willing to prepare for a papal visit; he said he has not contacted the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., nor does he know of anyone else who has to see if Catholic leadership would approve.

“Right now it’s just an idea,” Ball told The County Times in a Monday interview. “Before we go to a lot of trouble… I want to make sure all the stakeholders are on board.”

Ball said he was in contact with a Catholic priest in the St. Mary’s City area — he declined to say which — and had already sent a copy of his letter to Commissioner President Randy Guy, Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron, Tujuanda Jordan, president of St. Mary’s College, Regina Faden, executive director of Historic St. Mary’s City and Capt. Heidi Fleming, commanding officer at Patuxent River Naval Air Station.

His main concerns for trying to put together the papal visit were ecumenical but the visit could also mean an economic boost for the county.

“It could raise the county’s profile,” Ball continued.

Cameron said a papal visit would require a great deal of security and much coordination between local, state and federal agencies for it to become a reality.

He said he supported the idea, however.

“That would be an amazing thing to have a papal visit and we would do everything we could to facilitate that,” Cameron said.

A former inmate at the St. Mary’s County Adult Detention Center claims he sustained permanent injury due to an overdose of medication administered to him there and may seek a tort claim from the sheriff’s office for alleged negligence, The County Times has learned.

John Edward Nunley, Jr., who was incarcerated at the detention center from Oct. 6 to Oct. 30 of last year on a charge of possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute the drug, claims that he sustained the injury Oct. 28.

Much of the information about the specifics of the claim was redacted by the county’s legal representatives to preserve confidentiality of the claimant’s medical records but Nunley’s lawyers were clear about the alleged results of negligence on the part of jail staff.

“He sustained permanent personal injuries as a result of this overdose,” George Pat-

Mix or Match Indoor Tropical Houseplants starting at $9.99.

(Excludes 3”, 4” and fairy garden plants.)

POTTERY SALE BUY 3 OR MORE & SAVE 20% OFF

All ceramic, clay and plastic pottery is on sale! Mix or Match, Any Style, Any Size.

COMING SOON: GARDENING & LANDSCAPE CLASSES SAT FEB.14TH THRU SAT. MARCH 15TH • VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR STORE FOR DETAILS.

VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT IDEAS

Cyclamen

terson, Nunley’s attorney with the firm of Reinstein, Glackin, Patterson and Herriott LLC wrote in a letter to Commissioner President James “Randy” Guy last month.

County sheriff’s officials have declined to comment on any potential outstanding litigation but they and other county elected leaders have grown concerned over the need to renovate the aging facility and the medical unit there has become a particular worry because of the lack of space.

“Part of the concern is not just inmate space but medical space and…dining space,” said Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron. “We’ve been saying for the past 10 years that the space is inadequate… but in this case that doesn’t appear to be an issue.”

The commissioners have tentatively decided to move ahead with security and air conditioning renovations at the jail but have yet to commit any actual funding. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Holiday Containers

4 1/2” size reg. $9.99 $ 59

Only

6

ea.

All Orchids

Fresh Roses

Many varieties

Buy 2 Save

Many different styles to choose.

When you buy 3 or more

25

Order Early!

% OFF

Starting at

1499

$

NOW SCHEDULING SPRING LANDSCAPE INSTALLATIONS Schedule an Appointment Today! 1-800-451-1427 or www.WentworthNursery.com

guyleonard@countytimes.net

Jail Inmate Claims County Was Negligent in His Treatment

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

BUY 3 OR MORE & SAVE 20% OFF

DROLL YANKEE ONYX CLEVER CLEAN FEEDER Priced from $49.99 to $69.99 SAVE

25%

$

OFF

C&S COPPER TOP SUET HOLDER SPECIAL ONLY

7

$ 88

COVESIDE PREMIUM NEW ENGLAND CEDAR BIRD FEEDER & HOUSES $ % SAVE

20

ONLY

99¢

OFF

SAVE

20

OFF

GOURMET WILD BIRD SEED

BLACK OIL SUNFLOWER SEED

15

15

HIGH ENERGY SUET WHEN YOU BUY 3 OR MORE

NATURE’S WAY REAL BAMBOO FEEDERS & HOUSES $ %

$

20 LB.

40 LB.

29

88 $

88 $

25 LB.

50 LB.

2988

88 $

ANNUAL BIG TREE SALE Choose from 100’s of Trees, Including Special Order Trees. Come in and pick up our flyer, or download from our web site www.WentworthNursery.com for complete details.

Wentworth Nursery Charlotte Hall

Prince Frederick

30315 Three Notch Rd, Charlotte Hall 20622

1700 Solomon’s Island Rd, Prince Frederick 20678

301-884-5292 800-558-5292

410-535-3664 1-866-535-3664

Winter Store Hours: Mon - Fri 9-6, Sat: 8-6, Sun: 10-6 Open New Years Day: 10-5

Sales good thru February 23rd, 2015

Oakville

5 minutes North of Hollywood 41170 Oakville Road Mechanicsville 20659 301-373-9245 • 800-451-1427

Winter Hours: Mon – Fri 7:30 – 5, Sat. 7:30 – 3, Closed Sunday

Local NEWS

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

6

County Sees Spike In Homeless Veterans, Families Served

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer The head of one of the county’s most active homeless shelters says that the number of homeless veterans and their families that have asked for services has increased sharply but those numbers may mean the problem is coming to a swifter solution.

The county served 150 veterans and their families in 2014, said Lanny Lancaster, director of the Three Oaks homeless shelter in Lexington Park, well over the 104 they served in 2013. The point in time survey, taken once a year to find the number of homeless actually living on the streets in a county, showed that in 2014 there were 68 homeless veterans. The previous year the survey found there were 42 veterans living on the streets of St. Mary’s County, Lancaster said.

Despite the actual rise in the numbers of veterans and their families seeking services, Lancaster said his office is not seeing the sort of desperation they had in previous years to provide services.

Over the past two years his office has partnered with the U.S. Veterans Administration to provide vouchers to veterans families quickly. This program, Lancaster said, has taken some time to become more widely advertised in the veteran community but has now built a reputation.

More veterans may be in trouble, he said, but they are now coming out more to seek available help. “I don’t feel the same pressure [to provide services] in the last six months that I’ve felt over the previous 24 months,� Lancaster told The County Times. “That’s the pressure on our office to respond to crises. “I truly feel we’re making progress. There were no services like this up until two years ago.�

Volunteers recently undertook the annual point in time survey last week to ascertain the number of homeless in the county, though officials who deal with the problem say the number is imperfect because it may not capture all of the homeless at that point and can increase or decrease over time.

The 2014 numbers for the point in time survey show there was a total of 339 homeless persons living in the county. The report showed there were 139 homeless in Calvert County and 679 in Charles County.

Lancaster said the number of homeless in the county continues to increase. “We’re not serving less people we’re serving more people,� he said. guyleonard@countytimes.net

FEATURING “They’re the best. There’s no one like them, no one in their league.�

Larry King, CNN

6DWXUGD\, February 2 , 201

&DOYHUW High School Auditorium Doors open 7 p.m. ‡ Show begins 8 p.m.

The Capitol Steps dig into the headlines of the day to create song parodies and skits which convey a special brand of satirical humor. The group has recorded more than 30 albums and has been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC and PBS. Its Politics Takes a Holiday radio specials can be heard four times a year on National Public Radio stations nationwide.

3

$ in advance; $ at the door

3

&$$6$ 2IÂżFH 3ULQFH )UHGHULFN Floral Expressions, Owings /otus Kitchen, Solomons

For information call 410-535-3733

Sponsored by Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse, Inc.

7

Thursday, February 5, 2015

The County Times

Local NEWS

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

8

Governor Hogan Introduces Study: Supplemental Budget Bay Health and New Legislation To Fund Transportation Improving But New Legislation Seeks To Increase The Share Highway User Revenue Challenges Distributed To Local Governments To Remain 30 Percent Over The Next Eight Years Governor Larry Hogan has introduced a supplemental budget for FY2016 that will increase the portion of highway user revenue distributed to local governments by $25 million to $194.3 million, the highest level of funding since FY2009. The action reflects the Hogan administration’s commitment to fund transportation priorities while supporting the efforts of counties and municipalities to maintain critical infrastructure.

Separately, the Hogan administration has introduced new legislation that seeks to increase the portion of highway user revenue distributed to local governments over the next eight years. Under the Governor’s proposal, the portion of highway user revenue distributed to local governments would rise by 2.8 percent a year, reaching 30 percent in FY2024.

“Over the last several years, local governments across the state have had to bear the brunt of deep cuts in highway user revenue,” said Governor Hogan. “Although we were faced with a dire fiscal situation and the extremely difficult challenge of delivering structural balance to our state budget, I have remained committed to restoring the money that was raided from our Transportation Trust Fund.”

Increasing the revenue distributed to local governments to 30% by FY2024 will allow the state to maintain its transportation infrastructure and provide relief to local governments that have struggled with declining revenue sources over the past several years.

7-Night Greece & Italy Cruise Celebrity EquinoxSM July 18, 2015 Veranda from $1,899 Concierge Class from $2,099

13-Night Spain & Portugal Cruise Celebrity EquinoxSM October 2, 2015 Veranda from $2,949 Concierge Class $3,249

11-Night Eastern Med Cruise Celebrity Reflection® June 8, 2015 Veranda from $2,599 Concierge Class from $2,899

Cole Travel 46924 Shangri La Drive Lexington Park, MD 20653 301-863-9497 www.coletravel.biz Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses of up to $145 per person are additional. * Prices are in U.S. dollars, cruise-only, per person, based on double occupancy, on select sailings, and subject to availability. Itinerary and prices subject to change without notice. Certain restrictions apply. ©2014 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador. 15042175 • 1/2015

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

A group of federal and state agencies as well as academic institutions say that the health of the Chesapeake Bay watershed is improving but water quality still faces challenges while the population of spawning-aged female crabs has gone down.

The Bay Barometer, published by the Chesapeake Bay Program, shows progress for the years 2013 and 2014.

The good news in the report focused on increases in spawning shad fish as well as the number of juvenile striped bass, more commonly known as rockfish, but the number of female crabs fell to 68.5 million in 2014.

The study showed that water quality remains a problem in the bay as only 29 percent of clean water standards were met for the last three years. In the prior three year period, between 2009 and 2011, the water quality met 31 percent of standards, according to the report.

“Human activities bring more roads, parking lots and rooftops that have a direct impact on water quality and living resources,” said Nick DiPasquale, director of the Chesapeake Bay Program. “Yet in the face of these constantly changing challenges, we are witnessing signs of a system in recovery.”

The water quality is measured by metrics of clarity, the presence of submerged aquatic vegetation and the amount of dissolved oxygen necessary for flora and fauna to grow.

The report showed that between 2012 and 2013 the amount of submerged grasses, which often act as a habitat for sea creatures and help stabilize erosion, rose by 24 percent but is still far below levels more than a decade ago.

The study found that there were just under 60,000 acres of submerged vegetation in the bay last year.

The study stated that the drop in the female crab population was the among the most alarming since the species female numbers dropped below 70 million, which is regarded as the minimum threshold for continuation of the crustacean.

The study showed the population of spawning aged females dropped a full 53 percent from 2013 to 2014. guyleonard@countytimes.net

9

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Cops & COURTS

Police Seek Federal Jail Time Stabbing Suspect for Mechanicsville Drug Dealer

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Police are on the lookout for a man they say may have stabbed two men in an altercation on Baja Lane in Great Mills Tuesday night.

Police have issued a felony warrant for Joseph Desales Thomas, 51, of Great Mills as the suspect in the stabbing so far and are asking anyone with information about his location to come forward.

The stabbing took place in the 22000 block of Baja Lane, police said, and resulted in one man being sent to the shock trauma center in Prince George’s County with a wound to the upper body and another to Medstar St. Mary’s Hospital with minor stab wounds all around his body, according to police.

Anyone with information on Thomas could be eligible for a $1,000 reward if their information leads to an arrest and conviction.

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Joseph Desales Thomas

guyleonard@countytimes.net

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

Citizens with information on the following crimes or any criminal activity in Calvert County who wish to report it anonymously can now access the Calvert County Crime Solvers link through the Sheriff’s Office website.

Go to www.co.cal.md.us/residents/safety/law/sheriff/ and click on the Crime Solvers link to leave an anonymous tip on-line. Information leading to the arrest and conviction of a suspect could result in a $1,000 reward.

Jan. 31, Burglary - A victim, who resides on Airedale Road, reported unknown suspect(s) entered his residence. Nothing appeared to have been stolen. Case remains open. CASE #5714-15 Jan. 31, Theft Motor Vehicle - A victim reported unknown suspect(s) stole his 1988 Chevrolet truck from his driveway located on Evergreen Park Road in Lexington Park. Case remains open. CASE #5842-15 Jan. 31, Burglary Motor Vehicle - A victim, who resides on Indian Bridge Road, reported unknown suspect(s) removed property from the bed of his truck.

Case remains open. CASE #5855-15 Feb. 1, Burglary Motor Vehicle - A victim reported unknown suspect(s) stole tools from his vehicle while parked at the Applebees in California. Case remains open. CASE #6106-15 Feb. 1, Burglary - A victim, who resides on Castaway Circle, reported she heard a noise in a bedroom. When she opened the door she saw a black male suspect standing in the room. The victim fled the residence and called police. The suspect also fled on foot from the area. Case remains open. CASE #6114-15 Feb. 2, Burglary - A victim, who resides on Oak Acres Drive, reported unknown suspect(s) entered his garage and stole property. Case remains open. CASE #6164-15 Feb. 2, Recovered Stolen Vehicle - MSP observed a 2003 Nissan Altima parked and unoccupied behind the Lexington Park post office. The vehicle had been reported stolen on 11-17-14 to SMCSO. Case remains open. CASE #61599-14 Feb. 3, Attempted Robbery - An employee at the Wendy’s restaurant located on Great Mills Road reported an unidentified black male suspect reached into the drive thru window and attempted to steal the cash register. Case remains open.

CASE #6398-15 Feb. 3, Burglary - A victim, who resides on Cedar Street in Leonardtown reported an unidentified suspect forced open the back door. The suspect fled on foot.

Case remains open. CASE #6460-15

A man convicted in St. Mary’s County of causing the death of a fellow passenger in a car wreck while eluding police in a high speed chase over drugs was sentenced to an additional 10 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute cocaine and for violating his parole on a prior federal drug conviction.

Tyrone Darnell Butler, 44, of Mechanicsville admitted that he sold or arranged to sell nearly 40 grams of crack cocaine from July to September of 2010 on four separate occasions.

Butler already had a previous conviction in federal court dating back to 2002, in which he was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment with five years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute about 500 grams of cocaine.

His supervised release conditions

were set to expire in March of 2011, according to federal authorities, but in January of 2010 he led police on a high speed chase after a traffic stop that resulted in a fatal crash.

Francis X. Chase, 33, was killed after the car he and Butler were in crashed into a tree on Vista Road.

Police reports show that when state troopers stopped Butler on Mervell Dean Road for speeding, Butler gave them a name that came back as having a suspended drivers license.

Troopers tried to arrest Butler but he sped away and drove out on Route 235 and led police on a chase that lasted about two-and-a-half miles.

Police said they found narcotics in the crashed vehicle and charged Butler accordingly. guyleonard@countytimes.net

LAW OFFICE OF

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

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

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

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

10

Announcin Issued Marriage Applications for December 2014 October 29, 2014 Brian Keith Rhodes 45 Lexington Park, Md Janet Elizabeth Marshall 45 Lexington Park, Md December 1, 2014 Brian David Keyser 49 Herndon, Va Karen Teresa Weatherby 49 Herndon, Va Marie Emily Depirro 37 Lexington Park, Md Sean Michael Hager 40 Lexington Park, Md December 2, 2014 Autumn Renee Miller 30 Mechanicsville, Md Derrick Patrick Berry 32 Mechanicsville, Md Bethany Joy Brennan 18 Lexington Park, Md Calvin James Slawson 21 Great Mills, Md December 4, 2014 Brittany Ann Nordlund 24 Waldorf, Md Craig Allen Harbaugh 24 North Beach, Md Rosa Nely Lopez 25 Lexington Park, Md Silfredo Alexander Cambara Gonzales 22 Lexington Park, Md Magdalena Nancy Duchnowski 26 Patuxent River, Md David Matthew Levine 30 Patuxent River, Md

Nicole Alexandra Castro 22 Lexington Park, Md Xavier Maurice Maddox Jr., 24 Lexington Park, Md December 8, 2014 April Michelle Musser 36 Alpharetta, Ga Leland Jonathon Brand 38 Alpharetta, Ga Ray Ann Lindsey 34 California, Md Eric August Tiede 39 California, Md Taylor Elizabeth Marie Sheldon 20 Lexington Park, Md Steven Paul Nichalson, Jr., 20 Pensacola, Fl Amber Nicole Kimbril 21 St. Inigoes, Md John Tanner Trussell 20 St. Inigoes, Md December 9, 2014 John William Martin, III 70 St. Inigoes, Md Susan Withford Duby 69 St. Inigoes, Md Lorrie June Prause 52 Lexington Park, Md Kenneth Ray Lotter 51 Lexington Park, Md December 12, 2014 Donald Lee Messer 33 Chantilly, Va Hayley Margaret Rhodes 25 Chantilly, Va Jareth Joseph Brown 22 California, Md Yosselin Fabiola Jovel Escobar 22 Lexington Park, Md

December 16, 2014

December 23, 2014

Catherine Arlene grimes 24 Lexington Park, Md Timothy Lawrence Crabtree 24 Lexington Park, Md

Rebecca Anne Horner 29 California, Md David Paul Chapman 34 California, Md

December 17, 2014

Tracy Marie Collier 33 Hollywood, Md Jesse James Taylor 33 Hollywood, Md

Larry Richard Ulm 69 Compton, Md Caroline Khoury Sadler 78 Compton, Md Charles Joseph Bikle 33 Huntingtown, Md Duong Thuy Ngo 37 Huntingtown, Md December 19, 2014 Clinton Robert Tash 44 Mechanicsville, Md Christina Lynn Fizpatrick 41 Mechanicsville, Md Kenneth Brian Baile 41 Leonardtown, Md Danyel Allen McAllister 37 Leonardtown, Md December 22, 2104 Beau Kendrick Fawcett 22 Honolulu, Hi Kali Lynn Bandy 22 Lexington Park, Md Ray Antonio Biscoe, Sr., 49 Great Mills, Md Karen Marie Miles 50 Great Mills, Md Marsha Leigh Boyle 27 Leonardtown, Md Brett Ryan Miller 31 Leonardtown, Md

Joshua Colt Johnson 28 Duluth, Ga Julia Ann Orlandi 23 Owings, Md Michael Shane Gardner 51 Mechanicsville, Md Janet Marie Wilkins 51 Mechanicsville, Md December 29, 2014 Karen Veronica Yates 48 Owings, Md Timothy Donald Marquess Sr., 51 Owings, Md Kristin Lacey Bowling 33 LaPlata, Md John Francis Mudd, Jr., 34 Newburg, Md David Joseph Green 27 Lexington Park, Md Naomi Ruth Baldacchino 23 Great Mills, Md Kelly Elizabeth Douglas 20 Mechanicsville, Md Justice Aaron Tarbuton 20 Mechanicsville, Md December 31, 2014 Eric William Tibbatts 24 Fredericksburg, Va Samantha Lee Burton 21 Lexington Park, Md

Call The County Times to Place an Engagement Announcement - It’s Free!

301-373-4125

11

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Letters to the

EDITOR

On Newsstands Every Thursday

Dear Editor:

Thursday, augusT 7, 2014 www.counTyTim es.somd.com

It has been interesting for me to watch our newly elected members to the Board of County Commissioners interact. They all claim to embrace conservatism but there appears to be varying opinions on just what that means. There are no party lines right now but there does seem to be distinctly different philosophies applied to many issues. Even these differences don’t seem to fall into any specific pattern since a commissioner may express a certain philosophy on one issue and favor another philosophy on a different matter. It may be too soon to tell but there also doesn’t seem to be any particular alliances formed at this point. I find all this refreshing since it appears all of our elected officials are expressing their individuality and weigh each decision individually on the merits as they see them. If my observations are correct I think we picked winners all around. I wouldn’t expect unanimity on each count but to start from square one, whether you won or lost on the last vote, is something new to me and really looks like democracy at work. How sweet it is and I hope it lasts.

I am of the conservative bent and I shudder when I look at my collective tax liability, local, state and federal. On the other hand, I can’t expect champagne service on a beer budget and will need suck it up and pay my fair share. On the local front, two big ticket items discussed recently are a new library and senior center with the costs involved being closely scrutinized and rightly so.

I happen to support both these initiatives since the old senior center is just not up to the task, can’t be feasibly modified to be adequate for the present, much less future growth in the senior population, and isn’t even in the ball park concerning ADA compliance. New is the only real option and the existing site is too small and congested. I think the library system is about the best value we get for our money. It serves toddlers to seniors, is available and used by all segments of the community, has so many services you can’t help but find something you can use that they can provide for you and I have always found their staff to be helpful, pleasant, knowledgeable and efficient. What a deal ! A real bang for the buck so why not take the plunge and bring them up-to-date with a new facility. As much as I hate to volunteer to dig deeper into my pocket I’ll gladly do so for these two projects. Since I am well beyond my prime the senior center may be a little self serving but nobody can have a legitimate squawk about coughing up the dough for the library since it is a gem from which we all reap the benefits it provides whether we personally use it or not. If our elected officials can manage to fund these projects within the available resources that would be great but if we all need to dig a little deeper lets do it and be proud we did. It looks like we can trust this group to spend our money wisely.

Living the Dream

Sam Grow Returns from Nashville for Southern Maryland Performance Story Page 16

Archived Photo

by Mike Batson

The County Times Serving St. Mary

’s

1

Thursday, October 2, 2014

The Calvert County Times

.cOm

Thursday, OcTOber 2, 2014

Gazette Formerly

Calvert

Fleet Blessing

Sincerely,

of the

al 47th Annu

October Saturday,

4th & Sunday,

t’s Island St. Clemen

END! LY WEEK A FAMI Mary’s County

nd • St. s Point, Maryla • Colton’

October

Museum

5th

Mike Batson Photography

GAY EVENIN At Dusk SATURD s Show

David Ryan Hollywood, Md.

Sam Grow

AY Band - SATURD

Great Firework

Also Inside

out Tours Through nd The Weeke

Y - SUNDA

Band t’s Island Memories St. Clemen Lighthouse Ride to tone Free Boat Tour of Blackis Museum t’s Island

Country

Free Guidedof St. Clemen OPTIMIST CLUB T DISTRIC Free Tour THE 7TH t.org TED BY toptimis PRESEN thdistric md.com www.7 fthefleet lessingo www.b St. ENT TO

ty Times ’s Coun 7TH DISTRICT & Mary OF THE SUPPLEM T CLUB ty Times rt Coun PRESENTED BY THE OPTIMIS The Calve

Photo United States Navy

A SPECIAL

Commissioners of Leonardtown Cancellation of Scheduled Public Hearing

Taking the Lead

The Commissioners of Leonardtown public hearing originally scheduled for Monday, February 9, 2015 at 4:15 p.m. at the Town Office, 41660 Courthouse Drive, regarding the rezoning request for Tax Map 32, Parcels 178 and 314 has been cancelled. The request has been withdrawn.

at NAS Patuxent River

Every

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

301-373-4125 • www.countytimes.net

James Manning McKay - Founder Eric McKay -Associate Publisher..................................ericmckay@countytimes.net

News, Advertising, Circulation, Classifieds: 301-373-4125 news@countytimes.net

www.countytimes.net

Story Page 12

ty Times Calver t Coun unty thing Calvert Co

By Authority: Laschelle E. McKay, Town Administrator

P.O. Box 250 Hollywood, Maryland 20636

www.cOunTyTimes.sOmd

Tobie Pulliam - Office Manager..............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.net KaseyRussell- Graphic Designer.......................................kaseyrussell@countytimes.net Guy Leonard - Reporter - Government, Crime...............guyleonard@countytimes.net Lauren Procopio - Reporter - Business, Community...........lauren@somdpublishing.net Sarah Miller- Reporter - Community..............................sarahmiller@countytimes.net Sales Representatives......................................................................sales@countytimes.net

Contributing Writers:

Emily Charles Megan Conway Haley Wood Ron Guy Laura Joyce Debra Meszaros Shelby Oppermann Linda Reno Terri Schlichenmeyer Doug Watson

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

12

Education

CSM Math Team Leads State After Round 1

The College of Southern Maryland Math Team leads the state following Round 1 of the American Mathematical Association of Two Year Colleges Student Math League competition during the fall semester. The team of 60 students with majors as diverse as engineering, computer science and biology has been preparing since September and the hard work paid off. The team came away No. 1 out of eight schools in Maryland, No. 2 out of 17 schools in the Mid-Atlantic Region and No. 36 in the nation out of 178 schools competing. The top five scores out of the 60 participants comprised the team score.

In addition to the team competition, three students placed in the top 10 in Maryland and in the top 20 in the Mid-Atlantic Region: Cody Graham of Great Mills, placed first in Maryland and fifth in the Mid-Atlantic; Alexander Tyo of La Plata, placed third in Maryland and 11th in the Mid-Atlantic; and Suleiman Rabie of Indian Head, placed sixth in Maryland and 19th in the Mid-Atlantic.

“CSM, like all community colleges, has a diverse student body and some of our students are quite amazing,” said CSM Mathematics Professor Steven Hundert, who, along with professors Jim Cleary, Josh Groseck, Sarah Hand, Sandra Poinsett, Tom Seremet, Donna Sperry and Susan Strickland are involved with the CSM Math Team.

“The student math league exam requires not only strong mathematical skills but, in order to do well, students must be smart creative problem-solvers. Our top players are some of the best in the Mid-Atlantic Region and rank in the top quarter in the nation. This is primarily due to their own intelligence and drive but the public schools and CSM should get a little credit for the education they provide,” said Hundert.

“CSM has participated in the math league competition for around 20 years and we have always been in the top three in the state and top five in the Mid-Atlantic region. The 2013-14 academic year was our best year as CSM was No. 14 in the nation out of 183 schools,” said Hundert.

Round 2 of the competition takes place on Feb. 27 on all campuses.

Photo Courtesy of CSM CSM engineering student Cody Graham of Great Mills, practices his robot driving skills in preparation for a robotics competition between the CSM’s collegiate team, the Talons, and Old Dominion University, Virginia Tech, Utah State University Eastern Blanding and other colleges Feb. 6 in La Plata. Graham uses his math skills as the team’s lead programmer and placed first in Maryland and fifth in the MidAtlantic after Round 1 of the American Mathematical Association of Two Year Colleges Student Math League competition during the fall semester.

2015 Youth Drug Prevention Summit Dynard Elementary School Celebrates “Changing Our Culture”

50th Anniversary

Dynard Elementary School, in collaboration with the Seventh District Optimist Club and American Legion Post 221, is pleased to announce the celebration of 50 years of educational excellence.

Classes from the old Clements and River Springs Elementary Schools moved into Dynard Elementary School on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 1965. The new six-classroom elementary school opened under the leadership of Mrs. Pearl C. Bailey, who was a teaching principal. Today, Dynard Elementary School continues its legacy of commitment to education through the demonstration of Focus, Leadership, Achievement, Manners, and Excellence (F.L.A.M.E.).

The Dynard Elementary School 50th Anniversary Steering Committee invites all former students and staff members to attend an Open House and Reception on Sunday, Feb. 22 from 2 to 5 p.m.

Student and staff alumni are encouraged to contact Mr. Michael Barbour at mcgabell@md.metrocast.net or 301-769-4569 to RSVP attendance or to share photographs or other documents from the school’s opening.

Student Board Member Sarita Interim Superintendent of Schools Lee J. Scott Smith are pleased to announce that St. Mary’s County Public Schools will host a student sponsored summit focusing on youth substance misuse prevention. The summit will be held on March 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center (JAFCTC) located at 24005 Point Lookout Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650.

The purpose of the summit is to increase awareness and educate community students about the risk and dangers associated with substance misuse and to generate discussion about future projects that will serve to bring further understanding to all St. Mary’s County school age students about the dangers and risks associated with substance misuse and addiction. 150 middle and high school students representing public and non-public schools in St. Mary’s County will attend the summit that will be led and facilitated by fellow students. The summit will feature a keynote speaker from the Baltimore based “Upside Down Organization” and interactive student learning sessions. The summit is co-sponsored and supported through several community partnerships.

Supporting partners include the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, St. Mary’s County Health Department, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, St. Mary’s County Department of Aging and Human Services, Walden Behavioral Health of Southern Maryland, and the Behavioral Health Action Team of the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership.

The Board of Education of St. Mary’s County has continually supported the education of students, parents, guardians, and the community at large as a key strategy in substance misuse prevention and increasing awareness about the resources available in our community to help prevent this high risk behavior.

Exhibitors representing community resources available for families and youth seeking assistance with substance misuse concerns will be represented and available during the summit. Exhibitor space for the summit is available, but limited, and will be filled as requests for space are received. If you would like to apply to sponsor an exhibit, please submit the exhibitor registration form. Exhibitors will be notified when their application has been approved. If you would like additional information about the summit contact the Department of Safety and Security at 301-475-4256 extension 34150.

13

Thursday, February 5, 2015

The County Times

Education

St. Mary’s Men’s Basketball Rolls to Fifth Straight Win

The St. Mary’s College of Maryland men’s basketball remains alone atop of the Capital Athletic Conference standings following the Jan. 31 70-58 road win over Penn State Harrisburg. This afternoon’s win completed the Seahawks’ series sweep of Harrisburg.

St. Mary’s improves to 13-4 on the season with the win and owns a solid hold of first place in the CAC with a 10-2 mark. The Seahawks will be back in action on Wednesday, February 4th as the team travels to Fredericksburg, Virginia to face University of Mary Washington at 8 p.m. St. Mary’s garnered a 65-53 win over UMW in front of its home fans on Dec. 13th.

Senior captain Nicholas LaGuerre (Baltimore, Md./Lansdowne) led the team’s offensive charge with game-high 29 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including four threepointers, plus a 7-of-7 effort from the free throw line. Junior captain Troy Spurrier (Mt. Airy, Md./Glenelg) notched his first 20-point game of the season with a seasonbest 20 on 6-of-7 shooting and 8-of-11 from the line.

As a team, the Seahawks shot a season-high 60.5 percent from the field, including an impressive 53.8 percent from downtown. St. Mary’s was sent to the line 24 times and posted a 70.8-free throw percentage with 17 makes.

The first half featured seven lead changes and five tied scores as the Lions (3-16, 3-9 CAC) notched the first basket of the game but St. Mary’s claimed an 11-6 lead on

Black History Month Events at CSM

St. Mary’s County

CSM Showcase Recital Series: Jefferson Presents A Spiritual Journey. 8 p.m., Feb. 13. College of Southern Maryland, Leonardtown Campus, Building A, Auditorium, 22950 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown. Dr. Robert Jefferson will perform his lecture-recital, “A Spiritual Journey: Songs and Spirituals from Slavery to Emancipation.” Jefferson has performed throughout the United States, Japan, Korea and Australia. Free. MCanizales@csmd.edu, 301-934-7659, http://www. csmd.edu/Diversity/.

CSM’s Institutional Equity and Diversity Office Presents Narissa Bond.

2 to 4 p.m., Feb. 19. College of Southern Maryland, Leonardtown Campus, Building A, Auditorium, 22950 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown. Narissa Bond is the 2009 winner of two Hampton Roads Portfolio Awards for her album “Three Words.”

Drawing influence from traditional folk, jazz, blues and contemporary styles, Bond has been compared to artists like Joni Mitchell and Odetta. Free. MCanizales@ csmd.edu, 301-934-7659, http://www.csmd. edu/Diversity/.

Charles County Traces of the Trade. 6 to 7:30 p.m., Feb. 10. College of Southern Maryland, La Plata Campus, Center for Business and Industry (BI) Building, Chaney Enterprises Conference Room, BI-113E, 8730 Mitchell Road, La Plata. A descendant of the largest slave-trading family in U.S. history, James DeWolf Perry will be on campus to discuss his family’s discovery of their ancestors as

a LaGuerre triple at 17:36. Harrisburg responded with an 11-3 run by connecting on three three-pointers to reclaim the lead. The two sides traded the lead the rest of the way as neither team held an advantage of more than four.

First-year guard Caleb Barwin (Harrisburg, Pa./Bishop McDevitt) drained a three-pointer to give the lead back to the Lions with 1:37 left in the half. Junior guard Tanner Brooks (Baltimore, Md./St. Paul’s School) knocked in the front end of two shots to knot the game at 1:16 before LaGuerre made good on a jumper with 15 seconds to go for a 33-31 SMCM halftime lead.

Brooks, who finished the game with 16 points, led all scorers with 13 in the first half while LaGuerre added a dozen and five steals. Junior forward Anthony Morgan (York, Pa./New Hope Academy) paced Harrisburg with eight points and five boards as the Lions owned a 14-10 rebounding margin in the first 20 minutes.

It was all St. Mary’s in the second stanza as the Seahawks opened up with a 19-8 run to stake a 52-39 advantage at 12:51. The Lions closed the gap to six at 6:35 with a 12-7 run but would get no closer the rest of the way.

Morgan finished the afternoon with a double-double on 14 points and 10 boards while senior guard Joey Farthing (Lancaster, Pa./Hempfield) contributed 13.

PRESIDENTS’

DAY

well as answer questions about the documentary “Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North.” Free. MCanizales@csmd.edu, 301-934-7659, http:// www.csmd.edu/Diversity/.

Hip-Hop and Civic Engagement.

6 to 7:30 p.m., Feb. 19. College of Southern Maryland, La Plata Campus, Center for Business and Industry (BI) Building, Dr. John M. Sine Conference Room, BI103/104, 8730 Mitchell Road, La Plata.

Youth empowerment author, activist and educator Bakari Kitwana will discuss how the force of hip-hop has influenced young people to increase their involvement in electoral politics. Topics include the League of Young Voters, the Hip-Hop Congress and the National Hip-Hop Political Convention, as well as other political activist groups.Free. MCanizales@csmd. edu, 301-934-7659, http://www.csmd.edu/ Diversity/.

Buffalo Soldier, William Cathay: A Living Presentation. 2:30 to 4 p.m., March 12. College of Southern Maryland, La Plata Campus, Center for Business and Industry (BI) Building, Chaney Enterprises Conference Room, BI-113, 8730 Mitchell Road, La Plata. The CSM Institutional Equity and Diversity Office hosts an historical presentation on Cathay Williams, the first African-American female to enlist in the U.S. Army. Posing as a man under the pseudonym William Cathay, Williams served for nearly two years before being medically discharged.

Co-sponsored by CSM’s Veterans Organization. Free. MCanizales@csmd.edu, 301-934-7659, http://www.csmd.edu/ Diversity/.

FEBRUARY 2015

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

THE COUNTY TIMES & CALVERT COUNTY TIMES

CONTACT THE SALES DEPARTMENT TO PLACE AN AD

IN OUR FEBRUARY 12TH ISSUE

Kay Corcoran

443-684-8497 kay@somdpublishing.net

301-373-4125

Jen Stotler

301-247-7611 jennifer@somdpublishing.net

www.countytimes.net

Kit Carson

706-897-9526 kitcarson@somdpublishing.net

sales@countytimes.net

Feature Story

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

14

Buttons, Beads and More

Lexington Park Library Art Gallery Posthumously Honors Founder

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer In 2004, local artist Candy Cummings approached the Lexington Park Library with an idea to start an art gallery right in the library. On Jan. 29, the library and art community came together at the library to celebrate Cummings’s life and dedicate the gallery to her memory.

St. Mary’s County library Director Kathleen Reif and then-branch director Janice Hummel (now retired) were unsure about the project at first, Reif said. They were concerned that Cummings would start out strong but not be unable to follow through, as occasionally happens with volunteers who take on large, long-term projects. There was some concern that the gallery would get up and running, would get community interest, then if Cummings had to step out it would fall to the library to either discontinue a popular installment or find money in the budget to keep it going.

It was a huge commitment on the part of the library, Reif said, because they had to set aside wall space and install molding to hang the artwork from. She was worried about doing that for a project without a plan to sustain it.

St. Mary’s County Library Board of Trustees Member Alan E. Dillingham was on board for the project. He had been a fan of her artwork for years, and saw the gallery as another resource for people visiting the library. It added a “valuable dimension to learning and understanding,” he said.

When Reif met Cummings in person, Cummings came equipped with detailed plans for the gallery, the drive to get it going and keep it open and a passion for art that would keep her committed to the gallery for the next decade.

“She won me over,” Reif said.

After 10 years of commitment to the library-based gallery Cummings passed away on Nov. 4, 2014 following a years-long battle with cancer. During her time working on the gallery, Cummings created a space for local artists to showcase and sell their work without having to pay a percentage to the gallery.

Even while she was sick, Cummings remained dedicated to the gallery, said Arts Council of St. Mary’s County Director of Outreach Nell Elder.

“I walked into Lexington Park Library, saw her work and was like ‘I have to meet this person,” she said.

When Elder met Cummings, Cummings was coordinating artists, hanging the art, organizing the refreshments and doing whatever else needed to be done at the gallery. She had negotiated a larger and more prominent place in the library for the gallery Elder offered to help, and found out one of Cummings’s most pressing concerns – nobody would step up to run the gallery when she was gone. Elder suggested the arts council might be able to help.

Mackenzie and Mary Ida Rolape were the artists behind the plaque memoralizing Candy Cummings.

15

Thursday, February 5, 2015

The County Times

Janice Hummel was the branch manager in 2004 when Candy approached us with her idea. She shared her memories of working with Candy Cummings when she was starting the gallery.

Running the gallery dovetails well with the arts council’s mission. According to the arts council website, “the St. Mary’s County Arts Council is a non-profit organization whose vision is to Discover the Arts! Our mission is to cultivate the arts to enrich the quality of life in our community. Our ongoing goals are to increase awareness of and access to the arts, to provide a supportive environment for local artists and arts organizations to thrive, to foster economic vitality through the arts, and to develop the St. Mary’s Arts Council as a high performing sustainable organization.”

Representatives from the arts council and the library met and worked out a memorandum of understanding detailing how the gallery will be run in the future and the roles the arts council and the library will play.

That was exactly the kind of thing Cummings would always do, Dillingham said. Whenever there was a problem, she would do more than her fair share to fix it.

Following Cumming’s passing, the St. Mary’s County Arts Council followed through and took over the operations of the gallery space.

“We’re delighted to continue the work that Candy started 10 years ago,” Elder said.

The latest show to open in the gallery is dedicated to its founder.

During a reception and celebration of Cummings’s life, a plaque, created by local artists Dhyana Mackenzie and Mary Ida Rolape, was unveiled. The plaque thanks Cummings for her hard work on the gallery and her determination to keep it going.

In addition to negotiating the details, she donated funds to create an Arts Council Library Gallery Fund.

Cummings didn’t stop with the gallery. She partnered with Walden Sierra to bring art therapy to victims of domestic violence and every October the library gallery has a show honoring the artistic T-shirts made through this program.

They recruit the artists to display their work and to curate the shows. The exhibits change every four to six weeks and a reception is held to recognize each artist.

She created a campaign called Mad Hatters Cancer Campaign, where she and other artists bejeweled and bedazzled over a dozen hats and sent them off to people battling cancer. She was recently nominated for a Woman of the Year Award for 2015.

For more information, visit www.stmarysartscouncil.com or www.stmalib.org.

Contact the St. Mary’s County Arts Council at info@smcart.org or 240-3090686 if interested in displaying your work. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Submitted photos

The County Times

Obituaries Anna G. Reed, 64 Anna G. Reed, 64 of Mechanicsville, Md., departed this life on Monday, Jan. 26 after a short illness. Anna was preceded in death by her husband, Francis Sr.; son, Christopher and father, James Brown. She is survived by her mother, Anna Brown; children, Daphne, Francis, Leroy, James and Ernest.

Anna also leaves behind her siblings, a host of grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Family and friends united on Saturday, Jan. 31 for viewing and visitation at noon until time of service from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Briscoe-Tonic Funeral Home, 38576 Brett Way, Mechanicsville, Md. Interment will be private.

William Francis Butler, 49 William Francis Butler, 49 of Mechanicsville, Md. departed this life on Wednesday, Jan. 21.

He was the youngest son of 12 children born to the union of James Joseph, Jr. and Mary Ernell Butler. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Michael, Xavier, and James Joseph, III.

Thursday, February 5, 2015

16

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.

Born in Leonardtown, Maryland on Feb. 2, 1965, Billy received his education in St. Mary’s County from Banneker Elementary School, Margaret Brent Middle School, Chopticon High School, and the Park Heights Street Academy in Baltimore, Maryland. During his primary education, Billy was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease, a form of juvenile cancer. He was treated at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md. for several months and despite his ongoing health struggle he became a survivor.

Billy’s employment history included: Lead Chef at his brother Michael’s fast food establishment, Just Burgers in Baltimore, Md.; Support & Security, Patient Transport Technician, University of Maryland Hospital, Baltimore, Md.; Maintenance & Home Improvement Contractor, Hyattsville, Md.; Mail Room Clerk, Hill & Knowlton Publishing Co., Washington, D.C.; and Food Service Chef at, Charlotte Hall Veteran’s Home, Charlotte Hall, Md., Burt’s Diner, Mechanicsville, Md., and Kevin’s Corner Kafe, Leonardtown, Md., which was his place of employment at the time of his death.

Billy loved his family and his friends in Oakville, Loveville, Mechanicsville, Hollywood, and Lexington Park, Md. His hobbies included, of course, cooking, not only at the establishments where he was employed, but also for family and friends, specializing in seafood and wild game. He loved R&B music, especially

from the 70’s and his favorite past time included watching NBA basketball at home, and NFL football with his buddies. He was a Dallas Cowboy fan since the age of five!

He is survived by his son, Antoine D. Butler; his long-time companion Michelle Chase; his siblings: Shirley, Jerry (Romaine), Deborah (Jay), Josephine, Ethel, James (Deborah), Cynthia, Stephanie (Stephen); aunts-Veronica Jacob (Earl), Angela Green (Art); an uncleSteven Nolan (Shirley); nephews and nieces, Gregory (Carla), Ernest (Lisa), Christina (Brock), and Melissa (8) great nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins and close friends.

Family received friends for William’s Life Celebration on Sunday, Feb. 1 from 3 to 5 p.m., with prayers at 4 p.m., at Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, Md. 20650. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Monsignor Raymond East on Monday, Feb. 2, 2015 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 29119 Point Lookout Road, Morganza, MD 20660.

Interment followed at Queen of Peace Cemetery.

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

Marion Grace Willis, 92 Marion Grace Willis, 92, of Lexington Park, Md., passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at Solomons Nursing Center in Solomons, Md. She was born on Dec. 9, 1922 in Minnesota, and was the daughter of the late Julian Haugland and Mable Bertness Haugland.

Marion graduated from Madison High School in Madison, Minn. in 1940. After graduation, she set out to see what was happening outside of Minnesota, and went to stay with an aunt and uncle in Seattle, Wash., working for Boeing Aircraft. From there she traveled south to San Diego, Calif. to stay with another aunt, working for Bank of America. On March 7, 1945 she married “Rocky”, Martin Joseph Willis, Jr., in San Diego and became a Navy Wife. Together they celebrated 64 years of marriage before his passing in August 2009. After the Navy life, she worked for the post office for a short time, then settled in working in retail sales at the Navy Exchange until she left Maryland and headed to Alabama in retirement. She worked at a factory making blouses until retiring one last time at 78 years of age. Marion loved reading, but her favorite pastime was bowling. She bowled on leagues at Lemar Lanes, Esperanza Bowling Lanes and Patuxent River in Maryland, and continued bowling on a league in Alabama until she couldn’t make the 40 mile trip each way to the bowling alley anymore. In her post retirement years, she enjoyed picking peaches, strawberries and blackberries, and making jams and jellies. Her greatest love was for her husband, who she enjoyed spending her time with and who she missed every

day they were apart.

She is survived by her children, Sharen Dyson of Lexington Park, Md. and Larry Willis of Verbena, Ala.; 8 grandchildren, Michelle Marble, Jennifer Sivak, George Owens, and Mark Owens, all of Lexington Park, Md., Connie Walden of New Burn, N.C., Tina Smith of Spanish Fort, Ala., Sandy Moton of Thorsby, Ala., and Martin Willis III of Clanton, Ala.; 12 great grandchildren and 9 great-great grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she is also preceded in death by her son, Charles Willis and her siblings, Wallace Haugland, Milton Haugland (twin), Margaret Haschey, Phyllis Synder, Phillip Haugland, and Anton Haugland.

All services will be private.

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

Raymond Vernon Johnston, 84 Raymond Vernon Johnson, 84, of Mechanicsville, Md., passed away Jan. 26 at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C. surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Aug. 9, 1930, he was the sixth child of nine born at his home in Oraville, Md to the late Francis Vernon Johnson and Annie Myrtle Williams Johnson.

Raymond was a lifelong resident of St. Mary’s County. He attended St. Joseph’s School in Morganza, Md. As a young child he suffered a childhood illness in which he was not expected to survive. In the early 1950’s he went to work at the Federal Ordnance where he tested rockets for the Korean War Conflict. On Dec. 2, 1955, he married his beloved wife, Mary Eleanor Tippett Johnson at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Together they celebrated 59 wonderful years of marriage together.

He spent the next 53 years working as a carpenter, building custom homes until his retirement in 2000. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, dancing, playing cards, slot machines, listening to Bluegrass and old country music. He enjoyed old farm equipment steam engines. He also loved animals and had a unique way with all kinds. However, his greatest love was for his family and friends, whom he loved to spend his time with.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by his children, Raymond Eugene Johnson (Debbie) of Bryantown, Md., Donald Vernon Johnson (Sherri) of Mechanicsville, Md., and Gerald Lee Johnson (Tammy) of Mechanicsville, Md.; his sister, Anna M. Lyon of Mechanicsville, Md.; his brother, William “Billy Joe” Johnson (Marie) of Mechanicsville, Md.; two grandchildren, Jennifer Nicole Johnson and Andy Fretwell; and his great granddaughter, Celina Johnson. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his siblings, Francis E. Johnson, Elizabeth A. Dotson, James H. Johnson, Elmer A. Johnson, Joseph “Floyd” Johnson , and George S. Johnson.

17

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Obituaries Family received friends for Raymond’s life celebration on Monday, Feb. 2 from 5 to 8 p.m., with prayers recited at 7 p.m., at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, Md. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Reverend Keith Woods on Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 29119 Point Lookout Road, Morganza, Md. Interment will follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery in Mechanicsville, Md. Serving as pallbearers will be Buddy Tippett, Jamie Johnson, Joey Johnson, Andy Fretwell, Garry Johnson, Wayne Dotson. Honorary pallbearers will be Ronald Buckler, Charlie Dotson, Jimmie Meridith, Joe Johnson, and Bobby Johnson.

Raymond was a cancer survivor so the family requests Memorial Contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, 1041 Route 3N, Bldg. A, Gambrills, Md. 21054.

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

Gail Lorna Mooney, 68 Gail Lorna Mooney died on Jan. 25 in Saint James City, Fla. at the age of 68 after a protracted battle with cancer. Gail was born on March 10, 1946 in Yonkers, N.Y. to John and Lillian Toolan.

She grew up in a loving family with one sister and a large extended family.

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.

In high school, she excelled in the sciences and won several awards. Gail had a thirst for knowledge and pursued her interests with vigor. She graduated cum laude from the Salve Regina College in Newport, R. I. with a B.A. in Art, and an M.A. in Human Development. She was later awarded her PhD in Educational Psychology from The Catholic University in Washington D.C. Gail was a driven professional with a successful career at Honeywell spanning various Executive Management positions. Throughout her career Gail was the recipient of many awards, distinctions and tributes as well as both chairing and participating on numerous Boards and Associations related to her industry and profession. She had many other passions in life and over the years earned her private pilots license, was an avid sailor and enjoyed boating and held a U.S. Coast Guard Captains license, and was a certified scuba diver.

When diagnosed with cancer in 2010, she remained dedicated in her work and in her will to fight her illness.

She studied different medical approaches and nutrition, and earned her certificate as a Certified Medical Practitioner in Nutrition and Alternative Medicine.

She went on to teach courses in this as well as Human Development as an Adjunct Professor at Florida Gulfcoast University. She remained a brave, dedicated woman, even throughout her final months.

Gail was preceded in death by her father John Toolan. She leaves behind her husband, Norman Mooney; mother Lillian Toolan, her daughters, Christine

Vitkus (Mark) and Cynthia Jeffery; her nephew Zariel Toolan (Liz), 8 grandchildren, a sister, Barbara Toolan and 5 stepchildren with 17 grandchildren.

Friends were received on Monday, Feb. 2, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Rausch Funeral Home, P.A., Owings. A service and celebration of Gail’s life was held 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at Friendship Community Baptist Church, Dunkirk. Interment followed at Southern Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice Cape Coral, Fla. Arrangements by Rausch Funeral Home, 8325 Mount Harmony Lane, Owings, Md.

Elizabeth Irene O’Neal, 77 Elizabeth Irene O’Neal, 77, of California, Md., passed away on Friday, Jan. 16, at her residence.

She was born on Jan. 24, 1937 in Ronceverte, W.Va. She is the daughter of the late Othor Massie and Arlena Ramsey.

Elizabeth was employed as a cafeteria Cook for St. Mary’s County Board of Education. She also worked many years as a caregiver.

Elizabeth is survived by her son, Clarence Massie of Lexington Park, Md.; her siblings, Edith Crosier of Clifton Forge, Va., Ethel VanBuren of Gap Mills, W.Va., Dorothy Tucker of Covington, Va., Lula Belle Wykle of Selma, Va., Linda Smith of Covington, Va., and Katie

Burnette of Covington, Va.; her grandson, Clarence Massie, Jr., and two great grandchildren.

All services will be private.

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

Richard “JuJu” Armstrong, 74 Richard, “JuJu” Armstrong, 74, of Great Mills, Md. passed away on Jan. 28 at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown, Md. He was born on June 28, 1940.

JuJu enjoyed playing the guitar, social activities, exercising and sharing meals. He looked forward to attending church services and St. Mary’s Adult Medical Day Center.

JuJu is survived by his brothers, George Armstrong of Waldorf, Md.; sister, Geraldine Armstrong of Lexington Park, Md.; uncle, William Armstrong of 7th District, St. Mary’s County; and his caregivers, Ola May Carter and Frederick Carter who he lived with for 27 years of St. Inigoes, Md. and also survived by his caregiver, Tess.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a Committal Service for JuJu on Tuesday, Feb. 3 at Charles Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 26325 Point Lookout Road, Leonardtown, Md. 20650. A Remembrance Service will follow to celebrate JuJu’s life on Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. at Chesapeake Shores Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Lexington Park, Md.

Over 250,000 Southern Marylanders can’t be wrong!

Your Online Community for Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties

New to the area? Lifelong resident?

• Stay abreast of local happenings • Check our highly popular classifieds • Speak your mind in the forums • Enter our contests and win terrific prizes

Stop by and see what Southern Maryland Online has to offer!

www.somd.com

Business

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

18

A-Tisket, A-Tasket, Timeless Gifts & Baskets

By Emily Charlies Contributing Writer

Sometimes, the perfect gift comes in a basket, and Timeless Gifts & Baskets in Leonardtown is ready to help find yours. Established four-and-a-half years ago, the business is owned and operated by Faika Kasmani, a certified gift basket organizer and balloon decorator.

“I wanted to own a business and I thought there was a need here for gift wrapping and custom gift baskets,” Faika said.

The baskets arranged by Faika are “salty, savory and sweet,” and their sizes are scaled based on budgets presented by her clients.

“My favorite part is being able to help people and the gifting business. People call me and go, ‘Your baskets are expensive,’ and I say, ‘No,’ because this business is very different.

The client sets the price. People call me and they ask, ‘What can you do for $15?’ and I make what I can for them,” Faika said.

Faika organizes gift baskets for all occasions, but particularly enjoys making baskets for real estate agents.

“They work with such a variety of people. They’ll tell me, ‘My client likes this,’ and ‘Can you include that?’ and those baskets are my personal favorite. I also really like putting together baskets for Mother’s Day,” Faika said.

If you’re looking for more than a gift basket for your special event, Timeless Gifts & Baskets’ balloon decorations are one of a kind. Certified in February of last year, Faika creates arches and a myriad of sculptures from colorful balloons. Her balloon decorations have been featured at weddings, parties and as eye catching advertisements outside of local businesses, she said.

Currently, Faika is looking into ways to give back to the community, and she hopes to start working with organizations like Wounded Warrior Project in the near future.

Timeless Gifts & Baskets delivers its products to clients located in California, Hollywood, Mechanicsville, Lexington Park and some parts of Charlotte Hall. Faika also ships prod-

Photos provided by Faika Kasmani

ucts all over the United States. In addition, Kenny’s Flowers, located in Great Mills, keeps a small stock of gift baskets that she has arranged.

“I go everywhere with the balloons,” Faika said.

Faika loves the work she does, and she hopes you will too!

“I like doing what I do. I’d like to get the word out about my business and to add other clients. I think there’s a niche for it,” she said.

Can’t find the right present? Timeless Gifts & Baskets will make it for you.

For more information about Timeless Gifts & Baskets, visit www.timelessgiftsanfbaskets.com or call 301-685-6508.

More information is also available on the business’ Facebook page. news@countytimes.net

19

Thursday, February 5, 2015

The County Times

Looking for a Career, Not Just a Job? Have You Thought About Media Marketing as a Possibility?

Now HiriNg

Marketing Professionals Meet New, interesting People get out From Behind a Desk Determine Your own income get Paid for what You Sell

Apply Now for immediate Consideration Send a resume to kitcarson@somdpublishing.net and let’s discuss the possibilities.

301-373-4125 www.countytimes.net

In Our Community

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

20

Rotary Club of Lexington Park Dictionary Project for Area Third Graders 700 Dictionaries Being Handed Out to Local 3rd Grade Students to Promote Literacy

The Rotary Club of Lexington Park is continuing its annual Dictionary Project for 2015 during the months of January and February. The Dictionary Project, started in 2004 to honor the Centennial of Rotary International in 2005, is the largest of its kind undertaken by any organization. The goal of The Dictionary Project is to assist all third grade students to complete the school year as good writers, active readers, and creative thinkers by providing the students with their own personal dictionaries. Each student has a dictionary that is theirs to keep, and provides an opportunity for children to expand their vocabulary and for many it may be the first book they actually own. The Rotary Club of Lexington Park annually participates as part of a multi-club regional effort organized by Rotary District 7620.

Earlier in January, St. Mary’s County Schools interim Superintendent, Mr. J. Scott Smith, visited the Lexington Park Club for the “kick-off” event to show support and stress how important he felt this effort was to place dictionaries in the hands of 3rd graders in the area. Club members will visit 13 public, private, and parochial schools to hand out the dictionaries to third grade classes.

Paula Coxon, Project Coordinator for the club said: “The Dictionary Project is part of our club’s objective of helping the community with various goodwill, charity, and volunteer initiatives. The club has been active for over 40 years, and hope to continue this project for many years to come” she said. “Perhaps in another 40 years, some of the students who have received our dictionaries will become our club members and give out dictionaries to other third graders.”

Rotary Club members will visit 13 public, private, and parochial schools to hand out the dictionaries to third grade classes.

Pet of the Week Hi, my name is Goldie. I am one lucky girl. I was living with about 20 other cats at an apartment complex and the management did not want us there. Fortunately, the older cats have been moved to barns and have some time to acclimate to their new homes. My sister and I were there, but our foster mom thought that we could be domesticated, and if we culdn’t, we’d go back to the barn. Luckily, I’m not going back there and Buffy’s already been adopted.

I am a purr girl and I especially love feathery toys. Once I trust you, I like to be held.

If you think I’m your girl, you can fill out an application <http://www.feralcatrescuemd. org /uploads/2015_ Adoption _ Application. pdf> and email it to Diane at moonandhunt@ hotmail.com.

You can also come meet me at Petco in California, MD on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 3:30pm.

Love, Goldie

Mr. J. Scott Smith, St. Mary’s County Schools Interim Superintendent

I am fully vetted and cost $125. I was born in April of 2014. Feral Cat Rescue is also looking for volunteers.

Free spay/neuter grants for cats living in zip code 20659. Just email moonandhunt@hotmail.com for info. We also lend traps for the cats you can’t touch so they can be trapped and spayed or neutered.

21

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

In Our Community

Book Signing at Fenwick Street Used Train to be a Junior Books and Music Docent at Sotterley

D. R. Dobbins will be signing copies of his book “Andros- The Infamous Exploits of John Gideon” on First Friday, Feb. 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Fenwick Street Used Books & Music located at 41655A Fenwick Street in Leonardtown.

Dobbins grew up in Sarasota, Florida where at the age of fourteen began to visit his older brother in Nassau, Bahamas. In 1983, at the age of 22, he moved to Homestead, about a thirty-minute drive south of Miami.

During those years and after many trips to and from the Bahamas, Dan kept mental notes of stories spawned from the era of the Cocaine Cowboy as well as others that took place over a decade before. These stories finally converged into his first novel “Andros, The Infamous Exploits of John

at the Junior Docent Academy

Gideon.”

While an expat living in the Middle East, he put digits to keyboard and began the first sentences of the novel. Dan retired from the United States Air Force (USAF) several years ago. He currently works for an aeronautical company and looks forward to spending more time traveling and writing after retiring. He has many technical articles published by the company and a nonfiction article published by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram entitled “Lofty Aspirations,” a story about local grass-root flight instructors. Dobbins is presently concocting another “John Gideon” novel that thrusts his character into the venal.

Are you looking for something fun to do this summer that involves history and interacting with others? We have a perfect opportunity for you! Our Junior Docent Academy will be offered for ages 8 – 18 on June 22 and 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. where you will enhance your communication skills while sharing our rich history and exquisite site with visitors. Upon successful completion, you will become Junior Docents and ambassadors of Historic Sotterley Plantation!

Participants will receive a certificate and will be qualified to volunteer for Junior Docent duty in the summer months and for other volunteer opportunities throughout the year. This unique two- day training camp also qualifies as volunteer hours.

The cost is $35 per participant which includes a Sotterley Student membership or a $25 credit towards a Sotterley Family membership.

Registration Form is available online at www.sotterley.org.

Peaceful Living

IN A QUIET SETTING, EXCELLENT SCHOOLS D. R. Dobbins

LIBRARY ITEMS

Seusstravaganza! at Leonardtown branch

301-862-5307

All ages are invited to celebrate the stories of Dr. Seuss with crafts, games, music and Seuss-tastic Story Theater. Leonardtown branch will host Seusstravaganza! on Saturday, Feb. 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

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

Book Sale Donations Needed

The Friends are accepting donations of books in good condition or text books less than 5 years old. Please bring your donations to the Friends of the Library Book Donation Room, Leonardtown branch. Drop off hours are Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Friends of the Library annual book sale will be March 13 through 15 at the County Fairgrounds. To volunteer in the Book Donation Room or at the Book Sale, please email stmarysfol@gmail.com.

QUIET SAFE CONVENIENT

Teen Math Circle

The Southern Maryland Math Circle provides fun, fascinating math activities for middle and high school students (and their families). The Math Circle will be held at the Lexington Park branch on Saturday, Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon. Snacks are provided. This program is presented by St. Mary’s College faculty.

Veterans Book Discussion Accepting Registrants

The St. Mary’s County Library will host a free Veterans Book Discussion the first Saturday during the months of February through June. The program will be held at the Charlotte Hall branch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Those interested should contact Alesha Verdict 301-884-2211, ext. 1005 or via email to averdict@stmalib.org to register.

$150.00 Deposit With This Ad!

Owned and Operated by

Call For More Information: Bella Bailey, Marketing & Leasing MGR.

301-737-0737

23314 Surrey Way • California, Maryland 20619 Fax: 301-737-0853 • leasing@apartmentsofwildewood.com

The County Times

A View From The

BLEACHERS The other woman, our faithful fall mistress, has disappeared into another cold February night. Did she even say goodbye? Leave her number? Scribble a farewell on a perfume note?

The abrupt exit, after the best of many sultry nights, was typical. While her reappearance is inevitable, it won’t occur until the coming summer begins to fade and a hint of fall tickles the evening air.

Locked in the dead of winter, the prospect is a cruelly far-off dream. The NFL – that “other woman” – won’t return to invigorate its massive and obsessed fan base for months. For the time being, memories of the season that was will have to do.

Baltimore’s recollections include Ray Rice and a (ahem) deflating defeat to New England. Washington’s are of a recurring nightmare: an ineffective turnstile at quarterback, an overwhelmed rookie coach and relentless losing. Depressing.

The story is quite different in the Northeast. With the Patriots’ defeat of the Seahawks, QB Tom Brady and head coach Bill Belichick – with four Super Bowl titles - have earned a place among the NFL’s immortals. Good for them, ethical excursions aside. I would have offered Seattle the same had they won. With their Adderal flirtations and head coach Pete Carroll’s disintegration of USC football, they aren’t choirboys either. Few are.

My point - transgressions, aside – is that I’ve come to appreciate both Super Bowl teams. Their journeys were different, but they contained a common element: a willingness to move on.

The Rolling Stone’s song Honky Tonk Woman begins with an inconspicuous cowbell, then a drum beat and finally a distinctive guitar riff. The sinewy Mick Jagger, a man of unique gyrations, slathers the following lines over the funky rhythm: “I met a gin soaked barroom queen in Memphis, She tried to take me upstairs for a ride She had to heave me right across her shoulder Cause I just can’t seem to drink you off my mind.”

Jagger sings of a man psychologically consumed by a relationship gone awry and requiring physical force to carry on. The character is at a crossroads between commitment and determination – commendable traits - and stubbornness and blind faith – the folly of those in denial of the truth. When to remain persistent and when to abort? It is a thin line - one Seattle and New England have precisely navigated.

During the 2012 offseason, Seattle inked former Green Bay quarterback Matt Flynn to a lucrative contract but had the nerve to start an unproven third round pick after he out-performed Flynn in the preseason. Russell Wilson’s pretty good, eh? In October, the ‘Hawks traded WR Percy Harvin, roughly 18 months after acquiring him for a steep price, to the Jets for pennies on the dollar. At the time Seattle was 3-3 and Harvin was the most talented receiver on the team. It seemed to make little sense.

Seattle didn’t lose between mid-November and the Super Bowl.

The Patriots have a long history of divorcing productive veterans; this year Logan Mankins was jettisoned. Exiting training camp, the Pats dealt the six-time Pro Bowl guard to Tampa Bay for TE Tim Wright. The early returns were poor. After four games, New England was 2-2, QB Tom Brady was under constant pressure and the team looked lost.

New England re-grouped and won 13 of its last 15 games.

There is a tendency in life – one intensified by age - to cling to the familiar. Change – personal or professional - engenders anxiety. The unknown incites fear. The bird in the hand actually becomes more valuable than two in the bush.

Had Seattle or New England adopted that philosophy, it’s likely neither would have played in last Sunday’s Super Bowl. Both had the courage to make difficult decisions, to upset the safer status quo and to deal with dubious short-term returns. They had guts to move on - and are better for it.

When confronted with an alternative to the functioning norm, consider these Super Bowl combatants. Are existing circumstances best? Perhaps.

Or are we mired in the routine, stubbornly affixed to the known…and secretly hoping a gin-soaked barroom dweller will demand a different course?

Send comments to rguyjoon@yahoo.com

22

SPORTS

Maryland Clay Dirt

Moving On

By Ronald N. Guy Jr. Contributing Writer

Thursday, February 5, 2015

“Williams Searches for Milestone 100th With Familiar Team”

By Doug Watson Contributing Writer

After a year away from the sport, Mechanicsville Maryland’s David Williams is set to make a return to the cockpit for the upcoming 2015 season. Williams, Potomac Speedways most prolific winner with 86 feature wins in three classes and six track championships,will be behind the wheel of the Sommey and Ruth Ann Lacey owned Rocket no.45.The 2013 season was a banner one indeed for Williams who collected three feature wins and his unprecedented fifth career Late Model championship while driving for car owners Pete Cameron and Roland Mann. At the end of his title winning season Williams decided to step away and focus his attention on his new wife and their family business. «We just needed a break.» Said Williams. «We wanted to get our business up and running, and in that time we›ve been able to do that,so now is as good a time as any to get back into racing.» Williams has piloted Lacey›s equipment in the past,with much success,and feels it will be a smooth transition when the first green flag of the season drops. Sommey Lacey is a good friend and we›ve always had a lot of success together.» Williams stated. «We have a 2013 Rocket and a fresh Cam›s Racing Engine in the car and plant to race for championships at both Potomac and Virginia Motor Speedway with the Limited Late Model class.» Williams cites the ever rising costs of the full-blown Late Models as their reason for staying with the Limited class. “It seems like whoever has the most money wins in the Late Models these days,”Williams remarked. “We don›t have an unlimited budget so racing with the Limited class is just a good fit for both of us.” With the pieces of the puzzle in place the Williams/Lacey combination have one major goal to achieve this season. “Winning two championships would be nice,but we’re really after that 100th win.” Williams bottom-lined. “I’ve been so fortunate over the years to drive some good cars for some great owners and to be this close to reaching that goal,especially in Sommey’s car, would put an exclamation point on a great career.” Entering 2015 Williams had collected 33 Late Model, 34 Limited late Model and 19 Street Stock wins at Potomac with other wins coming at VMS (4), Alleghany County (1), Hagerstown (2), Winchester (2) and Delaware International (1) for a grand total of 96. “I know this won’t be easy.” Williams said with a laugh.”The Limited class at Potomac and VMS are tough,but I feel we have a team that will do what it takes to get it done and It’ll be up to me as well, but I think we’re ready for the challenge.”

NotesThe RUSH Racing Series will be back this season as the title sponsor of Potomac’s Crate Late Model division...2014 U-Car champion Megan Mann has sold her title-winning no.55 U-Car and will be moving up to the Crate class this season. The youthful third-year driver will be piloting a Rocket chassis,which is the same car that carried Pa.’s Jason Covert to the 2014 Late Model championship at Potomac...Mann’s Father Roland and her grandfather Pete Cameron,co-owners of Covert’s equipment, have a new Rocket on order. Covert’s first year with his new team saw the York Haven Pa.veteran score nine feature wins at five different tracks in three different states...

Four-time Hobby Stock winner in 2014 Jamie Sutphin will also be making the jump to the Crate class this season. Sutphin has acquired a former Ross Robinson driven Rocket and plans to split his time between Potomac and Winchester.Even with the new car in the teams stable, Sutphin has no plans to sell the Hobby Stock,a car which carried him to seven feature wins and two runner-up finishes in points over the last two seasons...2013 Potomac Limited Late Model champion Kyle Lear plans to dabble with some Late Model racing in 2015. Long-time Maryland car owner John Chamberlain has provided Lear with a Late Model power plant to bolt into his familiar Rocket no.151,however,Lear has not made solid plans on to where they’ll race weekly this season. Lear had a solid season in 2014 as he collected four Late Model Sportsman wins at Hagerstown, one LLM win at Potomac and a 358 LM win at Path Valley. Lear’s win at Path Valley was unique in the fact that it was his first-ever win north of the Mason-Dixon line and his first-ever visit to the speedway...Five-time Crate LM winner Darin Henderson has replaced his MD1 Race Cars no.22 with a brand new Rocket for the upcoming campaign as he plans to race for points between Potomac and Winchester...The buzz of the off season is the MD/VA Chase for the Championship between Potomac and Winchester that could see one driver walk-off with in excess of $20,000.

More on that in next weeks column.

23

Thursday, February 5, 2015

The County Times

Add Upcycling To Your Home Improvement Tools

AT

Upcycling is not just for craft projects — it offers lots of possibilities to make changes in your home décor, especially cabinets and furniture that will save money and reduce your contribution to the local landfill.

Woodcraft can help you with upcycling ideas, products and advice.

For the past year, Woodcraft retail stores have hosted upcycling demonstrations on the third Saturday of the month to help customers discover the potential for upcycling in their home projects.

“To support this upcycling effort, Woodcraft.com added an Upcycling Resource Center to our website (http://www.woodcraft.com/media/ upcycling.aspx) to introduce viewers to upcycling and announce demo topics and dates,” Vince Grlovich, vice president for sales and marketing, said. “Viewers can also watch a segment of Lifetime’s Designing Spaces where Woodcraft product development manager Kent Harpool shows host Aliane Baquerot how to create a shelf from a wooden pallet.”

Both Woodcraft’s Pinterest page (www.pinterest.com/woodcraftsupply/upcycling) and Instagram gallery (http://instagram.com/woodcraftgallery) include upcycling ideas, and the blog, Woodworking Adventures (http//:blog.woodcraft.com) has featured upcycling several times.

Jewelry Armoire Makeover Inspired by the upcycling trend, many Woodcraft employees have completed projects, including marketing manager Lori Haught, who transformed a 1980s Jewelry Armoire (see photo) into a more stylish, modern piece for her bedroom. She gave it a new coat of paint, new silver/glass pulls and flocking on the drawer interiors. You can see the entire process by visiting Woodworking Adventures and searching for “The Jewelry Armoire Makeover.”

An Irwin Marples Blue Chip Chisel was used for the disassembly that was required to add new hardware and make other changes to Lori’s armoire.

To remove the residue from old finishes and polish, Lori chose Norton Soft Touch Medium 120-180 Grit Sanding Sponges for the contour detailed areas and Preppin Weapon Sanding Blocks, loaded with Mirka Abranet 23⁄4” x 8” Sanding Sheets, for flat areas. Once the sanding was finished, all the pieces were cleaned with General Finishes Furniture Cleaner using handy Star Wipers rags.

Three coats of General Finishes Black Gel Stain were applied to the armoire. Although each coat was allowed to dry overnight because of other commitments, the actual time required between coats is two to four hours. (Gel stains come in 12 other colors including the popular java.) Two coats of General Finishes High Performance Satin Water-Based Top Coat were applied next.

To prep for the new hardware, Golden Oak Water-Base Famowood Filler was used to plug screw holes. More chiseling was required before a pair of 11⁄2” X 11⁄8” Satin Nickel Stop Hinges could be installed.

Before reflocking the drawers, Bulls Eye Sealcoat Universal Sanding Sealer was applied to the interior of the drawers and the dividers. Wearing an Anti Microbial Dust Mask and 6 mil Medium Powder Free Nitrile Gloves, Lori applied Light Blue Donjer Flocking, using a Donjer Mini Flocker.

Reassembly of the armoire required System Three 5-Minute Epoxy and a Bessey K-Body REVO Jr. 24” Single Parallel Clamp.

Other Popular Upcycling Products Soy-Gel is a 100 percent biodegradable, virtually odorless coating remover. Restor-A-Finish can be used to clean and restore the luster to a clear finish, as well as hide minor issues like scratches. It will also remove water rings.

Milk paint is a popular coating, especially for furniture. General Finishes Milk Paint is premixed and available in 28 colors that can be mixed to make custom colors and lend themselves to decorative effects such as distressing and antiquing. Old Fashioned Milk Paint is a powder that comes in 20 colors and is good for use on porous surfaces such as bare wood and raw masonry. A special effect Old Fashioned Milk Paint Crackle Finish provides a weathered look.

The 23-lb. portable QuikBENCH™ is a lightweight, easy-to-set-up workbench capable of holding up to 300 lbs. Convert two QuikBENCHES to sawhorses, and together they will hold up to 2,000 lbs. Two or more benches can be connected together to form a workstation. Each bench has a 24”-wide by 31⁄2” opening vise and a 15-amp, circuit protected, threeoutlet power strip, plus four plastic bench dogs.

To learn more about these and other upcycling products, visit your local Woodcraft store, call (800) 535-4482 or visit www.woodcraft.com.

A few repairs, a new coat of paint, sparkly new pulls, and interior flocking turned this piece into a stylish, modern Jewelry Armoire.

A Message

of Love

Tell the world how you feel!

Send a message in our Valentines section to someone special on February 12th.

Simply fill out the form below and send payment

by Feb. 5th. Questions?

Call us at 301-373-4125

ONLY

15.00

$

Mail this form to: SOMD Publishing, P.O. Box 250, Hollywood, MD 20636 OR email in this information to sales@somdpublishing.net Your Name:

Daytime Phone:

Person’s Name: Message Here:

*200 Characters MAX Including Spaces*

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

24

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

February, Month Long Skilled Crafters Wanted for Shop Craft Guild Shop (26005 Point Lookout Road (on Rte 5, next to Maryland Antique Center) in Leonardtown.)

The Craft Guild of St. Mary’s County is looking for skilled artists and crafters to join the cooperative of juried members who volunteer their time to operate the shop. We are looking for a variety of local handmade items, including refinished furniture, to continue our long time tradition of promoting artists and American-made products. As the holiday season ends, this is the answer to winter and spring sales and an opportunity to display and sell your creations. Interested crafters can bring in four handmade items, in each category, to be judged to see if they fit the venue of the shop. Store hours: Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. For more information, please call 301-997-1644.

North End Gallery - February 2015 Invitational Show “Artists Inspirations” North End Gallery (41652 Fenwick St., Leonardtown) – First Friday Reception Feb. 6, 5 to 8 p.m.

In February the North End Gallery will be holding their annual Invitational show which will run from Feb. 3 until March 1.

This year the theme is “Artists Inspirations”.

In addition to all of the regular North End Member Artists displaying their work there will also be work from over 30 invited artists. If you enjoy art this is a show you should not miss. Join us on Feb. 6 for the First Friday Reception which is open to all. This First Friday celebration will be from 5 until 8 p.m. at the Gallery. They may be reached at 301-4753130 and the web address is www.northendgallery.org.

Opal Art Gallery Annual Invitational Exhibits work by Larry and Susan Chappelear Opal Art Gallery (41625 Park Avenue, Leonardtown) – Hours of Operation 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. through 8 p.m. on First Fridays Works of art by Larry and Susan Chappelear will be exhibited at Opal Gallery, Leonardtown, Md. from Feb. 6 until Feb. 28.

The public is invited to attend the opening reception on Feb. 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. as part of the Leonardtown’s First Friday event.

Artists In Action Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) 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.

Annual End Hunger Bike Ride Registration Now open Chesapeake Church, 6201 Solomons Island

Road, Huntingtown – 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Join us for a day of biking along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay on Saturday, April 25. Pedal along the bay-front, marina, farmland and wineries while you enjoy the company of friends who share your same passion for biking.

This is a fully supported event with routes ranging from 16 miles to a metric century. If you’re new to cycling, sign-up for our new rider route and head out with a group and ride leader!

Registration is $39. Visit endurancecui. active.com/event-reg/select-race?e=13035052 for more information.

One Stop Orientation St. Mary’s County One Stop Career Center (23110 Leonard Hall Dr., Leonardtown) – 9 to 11 a.m.

This orientation will give job seekers a full overview of services offered through the One Stop Career Center. Jobseekers can receive free assistance with registration on the Maryland Workforce Exchange, job referrals, and job related information such available job readiness workshops, Workforce Investment Act eligibility, Veteran Services and services provided through various community resources. There are no fees for services provided. Call 301-880-2800 to register.

Sports Trivia Challenge Enter your team to score $500 in the Sports Trivia Challenge March 21, hosted by the Seventh District Vol. Rescue Squad Auxiliary. Quade’s Store Bar & Grill Bushwood, Md. Team check-in by 6 p.m., questions start at 7 p.m. $50 per team (max 4 team members) Limited to 20 teams. To register your team, contact Terra at 240-925-6950, Trisha at 301769-3214 or Facebook.

Friday, Feb. 6

Basket Bingo to Benefit the 2015 BECA High School Scholarship Program (Reservations) The Charlotte Hall & Leonardtown Rotary Club will host a Basket Bingo on Sunday, March 29 at the Leonardtown Fire Department Social Hall. Doors open at 1 p.m....games start at 2 p.m. Proceeds will benefit grants and the 2015 BECA High School Scholarship Program.

All regular games will have a liner/and or protector and will be filled with Longaberger products, pottery or wrought iron.

There will be 20 regular games...4 specials...pull tabs for baskets...basket raffle...door prizes...refreshments & more.

Please call Shirley Mattingly at 240-2983885 to be included in the free drawing for the 2015 Longaberger Easter Basket.

The group leader with the most reservations will also win the 2015 Easter Basket.

To reserve a table for six or more please call Shirley Mattingly at 240-298-3885 or email Shirley.mattingly@verizon.net.

CTA/SkillsUSA Bowl-A-Thon Teams Forming Teams are now forming for the 27th Annual CTA/SkillsUSA Bowl-A-Thon. This FUNdraiser will take place on Saturday, March 14 at Lord Calvert Bowl in Huntingtown from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.. The cost this year is $30 per bowler. This includes 2 games and shoe rental within a two-hour timeframe.

A team must consist of 5 bowlers. Local merchants have donated prizes, which will be awarded throughout the day! Proceeds from this fundraiser help pay for the many SkillsUSA Competitions and events for our high school students. Form a team and join us for some fun! For more information, contact Robin Brady at the Career and Technology Academy, 410-535-7450.

Thursday, Feb. 5 Call to Action ~ The Opiate Crisis Briefing Southern Maryland Higher Education Center, Building 2, Center Hall (44219 Airport Rd., California) – 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Speakers: Dr. Kathleen O’Brien, CEO of Walden Behavioral Health & Sheriff Tim Cameron. Register at paxpartnership.org/index.cfm?action=CL2&amp;Entry=1500.

Book Signing Fenwick Street Used Books & Music (41655A Fenwick St., Leonardtown) – 5 to 7 p.m.

D. R. Dobbins will be signing copies of his book Andros- The Infamous Exploits of John Gideon on First Friday.

D. R. Dobbins grew up in Sarasota, Florida where at the age of fourteen began to visit his older brother in Nassau, Bahamas. In 1983, at the age of 22, he moved to Homestead, about a thirty-minute drive south of Miami. During those years and after many trips to and from the Bahamas, Dan kept mental notes of stories spawned from the era of the Cocaine Cowboy as well as others that took place over a decade before. These stories finally converged into his first novel “Andros, The Infamous Exploits of John Gideon.”

mandolin, guitar and bass fiddle to bring both traditional and contemporary compositions and tight three part harmonies and bluesy solos to fans wherever they play.

First Friday Port of Leonardtown Library (23190 Newtowne Neck Rd., Leonardtown) – 5 to 9 p.m.

Description: Kick off your February fun with the live music of Richard Wagner performing at the winery from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Stock up on your favorite wines while you are here because nothing warms the soul like a great Maryland award winning wine.

Cost: Admission is free. $5 for wine tasting up to 6 wines and a souvenir glass.

Spaghetti Dinner Mechanicsville Vol. Fire Dept. Social Hall (28165 Hills Club Rd., Mechanicsville) – 5 to 8 p.m.

The Mechanicsville Ladies Auxiliary will be hosting a Spaghetti Dinner Friday Feb. 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Mechanicsville Vol. Fire Dept. social hall. We will be offering 2 types of sauces, garlic bread and salad for each meal. The cost of Dinners will be Adults -$10, children 6-10-$5, children 5 and under Free! Bring your family and Friends. All proceeds benefit the Mechanicsville Vol. Fire Department.

Annual Valentine’s Day Wine Dinner Reservations Due Port of Leonardtown Winery (23190 Newtowne Neck Rd., Leonardtown) For the 3rd year, we will be featuring a very special wine dinner in our romantic intimate tasting room. Dream Weaver’s Catering will provide an amazing five course surf & turf themed dinner paired perfectly with our award winning wines. Space will be limited so reserve your spot by Feb 6.

Menu: Shrimp Bisque, Roasted Beets with Goat Cheese & Pecans, Rockfish with Crab Imperial, Beef Medallions, Roasted Potatoes, & Grilled Vegetables, Chocolate Italian Trifle with local organic chocolate ice cream Cost: $85 per person (tax & gratuity not included)

St. Michael’s School Pizza Social & Thrift Store Specials (16560 Three Notch Rd., Ridge) – Thrift Store opens at 4:30 p.m., Pizza 5 to 7:30 p.m.

St. Michael’s School 8th Grade Class is hosting a pizza and spaghetti social. When you make your food purchase, you will receive a “credit” from the cashier that you can use at the Angel Wings & Things Thrift Store across the parking lot. The thrift store will be open from 4:30 through 7:30 p.m. Enjoy an inexpensive meal with your family, then check out the specials next door: luggage, purses, totes & computer bags - any size only $2; $5-Fill-a-Bag with clothes & shoes; bikes and sports equipment – 25 percent off.

Saturday, Feb. 7 All proceeds go to St. Michael’s School tuition assistance fund.

Music at the Winery Port of Leonardtown Winery (23190 NewNaval Academy Alumni Schedule Annual towne Neck Rd., Leonardtown) – 5:30 p.m.

Dinner Bring your dancing shoes to the winery!

Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training Swing Away Jazz Duo will be here with their (45353 St. Georges Ave., Piney Point) amazing swing inspired music. Admission is The Greater Southern Maryland Chap- free. $5 for wine tasting up to 6 wines and a ter of the Naval Academy Alumni Associa- souvenir glass. tion will hold its annual “Dark Ages” dinner on Friday Feb 6, at the Paul Hall Center for Card Making Class Maritime Training, Piney Point, MD. Naval Caught My Eye (22760 Washington St., LeonAcademy Alumni and their guests are wel- ardtown) – 10 a.m. to noon come to attend. Please make your reservaEight Valentine’s Cards, four designs. tions and pay for dinner on-line by visiting Cost $27, materials included. the GSMC website, www.navyalumni.org.

Entire month of February Caught My Alternately you may RSVP by replying to Eye will donate 10% of its regular sale proRick Snyder via e-mail: Richard.L.Snyder@ ceeds with coupon to SMCR (Southern saic.com. The cost is $37 per person.

Maryland Community Resources). Just bring the coupon below each time to come.

First Free Friday Calvert Marine Museum (14200 Solomons Intermediate Stained Glass Class Island Road South, Solomons) – 5 to 8 p.m.

Caught My Eye (22760 Washington St., LeonThe museum is open and free to the ardtown) – 1 to 4 p.m. public with docents available in every galCost $65 materials included. lery. Back by popular demand for their fifth consecutive year is the Annapolis Bluegrass Field Trip – “Winter Bird List” Leader: Coalition (ABC) performing at 6:30 p.m. in Karen Anderson, Master Naturalist the Harms Gallery. ABC uses banjo, fiddle, (10455 Ward Road, Dunkirk) – 7 to 8 p.m.

25

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

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.

Join Karen as she explores Calvert County’s newest park off of Ward Road in Dunkirk. The Natural Resources Division is looking for our help to compile the bird list for this exciting new 209-acre property.

Please RSVP to Karen at r_otters1@msn. com Indoor Yard Sale Mt. Zion United Methodist Church (27108 Mt. Zion Church Rd., Mechanicsville – by Apple Basket) – 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Mt. Zion UMC Preschool will host an Indoor Yard Sale, Saturday, Feb. 7, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Lots of great bargains such as children’s clothes, toys, household items, electronics, furniture, bake sale and more. Proceeds benefit the Preschool’s Tuition Assistance Fund. Financial Donations to support the fund will also be accepted. Call 301-884-5455 for information or visit www.mtzionpreschool.com

Angel Wings & Things Thrift Store Angel Wings & Things Thrift Store (16560 Three Notch Rd., Ridge) – 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The specials this weekend are: luggage, purses, totes & computer bags - any size only $2; $5-Fill-a-Bag with clothes, shoes & hats; bikes and sports equipment – 25 percent off. Some furniture prices have been reduced. Visit us to see what treasures you may find. Donations are accepted on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds go to St. Michael’s School’s tuition assistance fund.

Longaberger Basket and Vera Bradley Bag Bingo St. Mary’s School (13735 Notre Dame Place, Bryantown) – 6 p.m.

Doors open at 6 p.m. Early Bird games start at 6:45 p.m. Regular games start at 7 p.m. $20 admission fee. There will be a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and a grand raffle. Must be at least 7 years of age to play.

Opportunities to win bonus prizes throughout the evening. Everyone in the bingo area must have a paid admission. Credit cards accepted at the door. Food will be available for purchase. Contact Amanda Schiavoni at 301274-2998 or a.schiavoni@comcast.net for reservations.

Special Valentines Maker’s Market Indoors Murray Arts Building, Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) – 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Celebrate the first Maker’s Market of the New Year inside the Murray Arts Building during the Valentine’s Maker’s Market.

Valentine’s Maker’s Market kicks off the season supporting local artists and vendors by offering for sale, homemade, homegrown, and handmade goods! Admission to Maker’s Market is FREE. Valentine’s Maker’s Market will have a variety of wonderful items for sale including photography, jewelry, drawings, paintings, fiber products, wrought iron home goods, and glasswork. Ample, accessible and convenient parking is located in the parking lot and adjacent parking field.

Handicap parking is available through the main gate. Begin your day in the comfort of the indoors, shop for a friend or yourself, enjoy art, peruse the artLAB, take a walk along the outdoor path, visit the Gift Shop at Annmarie, register for an art class, and learn more about Annmarie Garden, for free! For additional information visit www.annmariegarden.org or call 410-326-4640.

Sunday, Feb. 8 Intermediate Stained Glass Class Caught My Eye (22760 Washington St., Leonardtown) – 1 to 4 p.m.

From 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Cost $65 materials included.

Fried Chicken Dinner Knights of Columbus 2065 (16441 Three Notch Rd., Ridge) – 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Knights of Columbus 2065, 16441 Three Notch Road, Ridge will sponsor a fried chicken dinner. Carry out dinners until 5 p.m.

Cost is $12 - half chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, cole slaw, etc. Dessert table will be available.

SweetHearts: Fused Glass for Two Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) – 1 to 4 p.m.

Bring your sweetie to this couples class and learn how to use glass, frit, stringers, decals, glass cutting tools and grinders to create 2-3 fused-glass hearts to wear or display in your home. Certainly a fun and easy-going afternoon date with your Valentine! Instructor Leza Helper will offer class on Feb. 8 from 1 to 4 p.m. with a member cost of $40, and a nonmember cost of $50. All materials are included with the class fee. Advanced registration is required, please call 410-326-4640.

Steampunk Style Metal Bracelet Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) – 1 to 3:30 p.m.

Join instructor Tricia Hall as students rivet, stamp, texturize, and antique their way to a fabulous steampunk bracelet made from copper, nickel, and brass. No experience is necessary and each kit includes everything needed to create one bracelet. Class will be held on Feb. 8 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. The member cost is $35, nonmember cost is $40, with a materials fee of $25 due to the instructor at the start of class. Advanced registration required, please call 410-326-4640.

Sea Glass Jewelry Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) – 1 to 3 p.m.

Create a beautiful pendant and matching earrings with sea glass, found on local southern Maryland beaches. Students will learn quick, easy assembly techniques to incorporate sea glass and other beach-found objects into fun, creative jewelry. Instructor Liz Printz will provide a kit that includes materials to create a beautiful pendant and matching earrings. Find something special on your beach? Bring that too! Class is offered on Feb. 8 from 1 to 3 p.m. with a member cost of $25 and a nonmember cost of $30. There is an additional materials fee of $30 due to the instructor at the start of class. Advanced registration is required, please call (410) 326-4640.

Monday, Feb. 9 GriefShare Group in Southern Maryland Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Hall (28297 Old Village Rd., Mechanicsville) – 7 p.m.

Join us for GriefShare, a special seminar and support group for those grieving the loss of someone close. There is a $20 registration fee for the seminars to cover the costs of supplies, but scholarships are available. We accept walk-in and phone registrations.

The seminars are open to all who are in need, even if it has been sometime since your loss. We are still accepting new participants.

This group is sponsored by people who understand what you are experiencing and want to offer you comfort and encouragement during this difficult time.

For more information or to register, please call Jean Ferrante 301-884-5456 or email jlf0617@comcast.net Job Search Workshop St. Mary’s County One Stop Career Center (23110 Leonard Hall Dr., Leonardtown) – 1 to 3 p.m.

Participants will learn how to navigate through the Maryland Workforce Exchange (MWE) system to conduct job search. We will cover job search utilizing additional career sites to enhance your search. We will also provide tips on how to complete an online application. Finally, you will learn how to conduct a successful job search. We will review position descriptions and utilize ONET online resource center to enhance your resume and application content. There are no fees for services provided. Call 301-880-2800 to register.

Tuesday, Feb. 10 Additive Manufacturing/3D Printing Briefing Southern Maryland Higher Education Center, Building 2, Center Hall (44219 Airport Rd., California) – 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Speaker: Liz McMichael, Integrated Product Team Lead, Additive Manufacturing, NAVAIR Details, Register paxpartnership.org/index. cfm?action=CL2&amp;Entry=1532>.

Wide Open Watercolor Workshop Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) – 2 to 4 p.m.

Let’s create stronger and livelier watercolors! Instructor Mary Blumberg will teach students how to explore line, shape, and balance control with a spontaneity that will make your paintings sing! Bring your own supplies for two days of inspiration, motivations, and of course, fun! Some experience is required.

Class is offered on February 11 and 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. both days. Member cost is $55, and nonmember cost is $60. Advanced registration required, please call 410-326-4640.

Nonprofit Workshop: Easy Visuals for Social Media Storytelling College of Southern Maryland, Leonardtown Campus (22950 Hollywood Rd., Leonardtown) – 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Register by Feb. 10. Learn how to use free Internet tools to take photos and videos to the next level and create content that will be shared across social media platforms. Fee. To register for NPI-6630 visit www.csmd. edu/NonProfitInstitute/events.html or contact Tammy Vitale at tvitale@csmd.edu.

Lecture: Long Looked For, Found at Last Historic St. Mary’s City (18751 Hogaboom Lane, Saint Mary’s City) – 7 p.m.

Local historian and HSMC docent Pete Himmelheber will share his research on land grants. Free. 7 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 13

Annmarie After Hours Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) – 6 to 9 p.m.

Annmarie Garden will present AnnmaAngel Wings & Things Thrift Store Angel Wings & Things Thrift Store (16560 rie After Hours in celebration of the opening of the Cosmos: Imagining the Universe. Start Three Notch Rd., Ridge) – 4:30 to 7 p.m.

There will be a couple surprise specials your weekend with an adult evening of great based on the donations received over the art, entertainment, and light hors d’oeuvres. previous weekend. All proceeds go to St. Don’t miss the Annmarie After Hours where Michael’s School’s tuition assistance fund. great art and great food come together for a relaxing and fun evening out! Reservations are not required; members are free; nonWide Open Watercolor Workshop Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center members pay $5 at the door. To learn more call 410-326-4640 or visit www.annmarie(13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) – 2 to 4 p.m.

Let’s create stronger and livelier water- garden.org. colors! Instructor Mary Blumberg will teach students how to explore line, shape, and bal- February Exhibit: Cosmos: Imagining the ance control with a spontaneity that will make Universe—February 13 through July 26 your paintings sing! Bring your own supplies Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center for two days of inspiration, motivations, and (13480 Dowell Rd., Lusby) This exhibit depicts mysteries of the of course, fun! Some experience is required.

Class is offered on February 11 and 12 from 2 universe, both scientific and fantastical, to 4 p.m. both days. Member cost is $55, and theoretical and fictional, real and imagined. nonmember cost is $60. Advanced registra- Embracing not only what science has revealed about space, but what humans have tion required, please call 410-326-4640. imagined about the cosmos. From the results of scientific inquiry to the creative minds of Thursday, Feb. 12 science fiction authors and fans, this exhibit celebrates how space has stimulated human One Stop Orientation understanding and creativity. From the big St. Mary’s County One Stop Career Center bang theory to worm holes and warp speed, (23110 Leonard Hall Dr., Leonardtown) – 9 artists present works that bring to life what to 11 a.m. we know of space and what we imagine. The This orientation will give job seekers a juried exhibit contains nearly 60 pieces of artfull overview of services offered through the work, including sculpture and conceptual, as One Stop Career Center. Jobseekers can re- well as easily identified paintings in multiple ceive free assistance with registration on the mediums and photographs. The exhibit is Maryland Workforce Exchange, job referrals, located in the Mezzanine Gallery at Annmaand job related information such available job rie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center located readiness workshops, Workforce Investment on Dowell Road. For additional information Act eligibility, Veteran Services and services please visit www.annmariegarden.org or call provided through various community re- 410-326-4640. sources. There are no fees for services provided. Call 301-880-2800 to register.

Wednesday, Feb. 11

The County Times

Entertainment

Annmarie Garden Now Accepting Summer Camp

Spend your summer with Annmarie as we explore art and nature in playfully creative ways!

Annmarie Summer Camps offer a broad array of topics and art media for kids to explore. From Pre-school options to teen workshops, we’ve got something for everyone. View all of the exciting options by visiting www.annmariegarden.org.

Non-member applications will be held until 2/15, then processed.

Thursday, February 5, 2015

n O g Goin

In Entertainment

Thursday, Jan. 29

Wednesday, Feb. 4

Trivia Followed by Karaoke Anthony’s Bar and Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Blvd., Dunkirk) – 8:30 p.m.

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

Friday, Jan. 30

Trivia Tournament Angler’s Seafood Bar and Grill (275 Lore Road, Solomons) – 7 p.m.

Squid Ink Toot’s Bar (23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) – 8:30 p.m.

Other’s May Fall Band Anthony’s Bar and Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Blvd., Dunkirk) – 9 p.m.

Spencer Joyce and the Record Machine Memories Bar (2360 Old Washington Road, Waldorf) – 9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 31

Southern Maryland Center for Family Advocacy

Mixed Business Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7:30 p.m.

cordially invites you to

Get Your

On Includes: Hors d'oeuvres Kisses

Cuddling Couples & Mingling Singles

FITZIES MARINA

$20.00/pp on-line by 2/7/15

RESTAURANT AND PUB 21540 Joe Hazel Rd, Leonardtown, MD 20650

$25 .00/pp at door Cocktail Attire

www.smcfa.net

The Southern Maryland Center for Family Advocacy (SMCFA) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) agency whose function is to provide advocacy, legal assistance and information/referral to victims of domestic violence in the Southern Maryland region Your tax deductible donation provides attorneys and advocates to victims of domestic violence

SMCFA, PO Box 760, Hollywood, MD 20636 ~ 301-373-4141

Email in your Engagement Announcement Today!

It’s Free!

angiekalnasy@countytimes.net

26

Don’t Call Me Shirley Toot’s Bar (23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) – 8:30 p.m.

DJ Anthony’s Bar and Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Blvd., Dunkirk) – 8:30 p.m.

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

Sunday, Feb. 1 Super Bowl Party Anthony’s Bar and Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Blvd., Dunkirk) – 11 a.m.

John Shaw Ruddy Duck (16810 Piney Point Road, Piney Point) – 11 a.m.

Monday, Feb 2 Team Trivia Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7 p.m.

Karaoke All American Steak House and Sports Theatre (35 St. Patrick’s Drive, Waldorf) – 8 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 5 Dave and Kevin Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 6 Sara and the Igniters Country Band Ruddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd, Dowell) – 7:30 p.m.

Big Money Anthony’s Bar & Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Boulevard, Dunkirk) – 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 7 DJ Anthony’s Bar & Grill (10371 Southern Maryland Boulevard, Dunkirk) – 8:30 p.m.

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

Sunday, Feb. 8 Golden Country Music St. Mary’s Landing (29935 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall) – 4 p.m.

Swing Away Ruddy Duck (16810 Piney Point Road, Piney Point) – 11 a.m.

Monday, Feb. 9 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.

Thursday, February 5, 2015

CLUES ACROSS

1. Licenses TV stations 4. Worn-out horse 7. Expire 10. Winglike structure 11. Supplement with difficulty 12. Confederate soldier 13. Attempter 15. All persons of the earth 16. Vertical position 19. Live longer than 21. Showing keen interest 23. Old Spanish currency units 24. Ingested by sniffing 25. A narrow path or road 26. Old Tokyo 27. Bound map collections 30. Deliquium 35. Brownish coat mixed with white 36. 3 banded S. Am. armadillo 37. Coat a metal with an oxide 41. Slave-like 44. 1950’s TV Wally 45. City founded by Xenophanes

46. Hermaphroditic 50. Kale plant with smooth leaves 54. Forelimb 55. Unassisted 56. Jeweled headdress 57. Auricle 59. Competing groups 60. Cardinal number 61. Light bulb inventor’s initials 62. Heat unit 63. Doctor of Education 64. Make a mistake 65. Point midway between S and SE

CLUES DOWN

1. Bazaars 2. Cuyahoga River city 3. Latin word for charity 4. Scourges 5. Alias 6. Origins 7. Subjugate using troops 8. Dutch name of Ypres 9. Siskel and __, critics

The County Times

13. Teaspoon (abbr.)

14. Herb of grace 17. Brew 18. Kilo yard (abbr.)

20. Barn’s wind indicator 22. Griffith or Rooney 27. Macaws 28. 2000 pounds 29. Official language of Laos 31. Cleveland’s roundball team 32. Office of Public Information 33. Chum 34. Before 38. Nation in the north Atlantic 39. Apportion into sections 40. Skilled in analysis 41. More assured 42. ___ Musk, businessman 43. In a way, tells 46. Immature newt 47. Hawaiian taro root dish 48. Extremely angry 49. Wrapped up in a cerecloth 51. Expression 52. Paradoxical sleep 53. Tooth caregiver 58. Swiss river

Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions

GAMES

e i d d i K Kor

ner

27

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.

Publication Days

The Calvert County Times is published each Thursday. Deadlines are Tuesday at 12 noon Office hours are: Monday thru Friday 8am - 4pm

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Important Information

The Calvert County Times will not be held responsible for any ads omitted for any reason. The Calvert County Times reserves the right to edit or reject any classified ad not meeting the standards of The Calvert 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.

Real Estate

Employment

Employment

Great home for a 1st time buyer or retirement home in Chesapeake Beach. Qualifies for USDA, 100% financing.The rooms in the home are all good sized, big kitchen, orig hardwood flooring and newer bathroom. All on one level.

Awesome rear deck with steps that lead to the big back yard, play house and storage shed/ workshop. Awesome potential to build up or out. Price: $214,000. Call 301-832-1165.

Directional Drill Crew Needed – Annapolis, MD, Exp. Foreman, Operator, Truck Drivers-CDL, Laborer 410-320-5484 E.O.E.

Drivers w/ CDL:

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

action1000homesforsale.com

240-317-5088

Lacrosse Officials Needed Southern Maryland Women’s Lacrosse Officials Association (SMWLOA) provides training and assignment for girls lacrosse referees for high school lacrosse. SMWLOA is looking for individuals at least 20 years or older interested in officiating the coming Southern Maryland high school season. If you’re interested, we’re conducting training sessions for officials in late February or early March at the Fairview Library in Owings, Maryland.

For more information, contact Kay at: SMWLOA.MD@gmail.com

Home Weekends with Dedicated Route Guaranteed Weekly Pay on 1,800-2,100 Weekly Miles Limited Positions, So Call Now

888-475-2818 Calvert Dental Clinic: Part-time Office Assistant.

Email resume to mjohnson2@cmhlink.org

Employment

LOOKING FOR

ARTISTS

WHO WISH TO SHOWCASE AND SELL THEIR ART! For Details Please Contact: Caught My Eye at 301-475-6805 Thursday or Friday between 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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

Water Resources & Recreation Power Boating

Recreation on St. Mary’s County’s many lakes, creeks, rivers, and the Bay includes a variety of power boats.

Marinas abound in almost every cove or bend and they provide safe harborage as well as services. For those who trailer their boats, well-maintained ramps can be found in all of the larger waterways. Some locations charge fees. Most ramps are public access and free.

For more information, visit the county Web site or visit Maryland Park Service.

To get a copy of St. Mary’s County Water Trails Guide and much more, visit: www.visitstmarysmd.com

St. Mary’s County Guides

• Destination Guide • 2013 Calendar of Events • African-American Historic Sites of St. Mary’s County • Group Tour Planner (for tour operators and group leaders) • Historic Churches and Religious Sites of St. Mary’s County • Leonardtown Walking Trail • Water Trails in Western St. Mary’s County • Three Notch Trail

Southern Maryland Guides

St. Mary’s, Calvert and Charles Counties • Patuxent Wine Trail • Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway Brochure • Southern Maryland Map and Guide • Southern Maryland Trails Guide • Southern Maryland War of 1812 Map and Guide

From

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

to O

ur B

ay

are you Bay-Wise?

Bay-Wise landscapes minimize negative impacts on our waterways by using smarter lawn management techniques and gardening practices. The University of Maryland Extension Master Gardener Bay-Wise program in St. Mary’s County offers hands-on Where to get help with.. help with managing your WATER RESOURCES QUESTIONS landscape by providing information, a site visit, and • Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources, landscape certifications.

Fishing Regulations, dnr.state.md.us/ Our yardstick checklist is fisheries/regulations/regindex.asp easy to understand and • Maryland Dept. of Environment, Con- follow, and our team of trained Master Gardeners sumption Guidelines, mde.maryland. can help guide you gov/programs/water/fishandshellfish/ through it while offering pages/programs/waterprograms/ fish%20shellfish%20programs/index. suggestions to improve both the appearance aspx and sustainability of your • St. Mary’s County Recreation & Parks, landscape.

Paddling, www.co.saint-marys.md.us/ recreate/paddling.asp

• Sailing Center Chesapeake, www. sailingcenterchesapeake.org

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

Call Now & Schedule a Visit!

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

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

29

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Business

The County Times

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

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

Cross & Wood

AssoCiAtes, inC. Serving The Great Southern Maryland Counties since 1994 Employer/Employee

Primary Resource Consultants Group & Individual Health, Dental, Vision, AFLAC, Life, Long Term Care, Short & Long Term Disability, Employer & Employee Benefits Planning

12685 Amberleigh Lane La Plata, MD 20646

G

uther

ng So

Servi

48

ce 19

d Sin

rylan

n Ma

28231 Three Notch Rd, #101 Mechanicsville, MD 20659

ADVERTISE IN OUR BUSINESS DIRECTORY

You Can Get

Mike Batson Photography

Freelance Photographers

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

MILK . . .

For Every 9 Gallons You Buy Receive 1 Gallon FREE! With Your McKay's Gold Card

With Your McKay's Gold Card

301-737-0777

Prime Rib • Seafood • Sunday Brunch Banquet & Meeting Facilities 23418 Three Notch Road • California, MD 20619 www.lennys.net

www.coletravel.biz

301-863-9497

Heating & Air Conditioning “THE HEAT PUMP PEOPLE” 30457 Potomac Way Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 Phone: 301-884-5011

Est. 1982

snheatingac.com

AS LOW AS

$50 A WEEK

FOR BOTH PAPERS!*

*COMMIT TO 12 WEEKS IN BOTH NEWSPAPERS AT GREAT DISCOUNTS!

No need to save register tapes.

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

Let us plan your next vacation!

46924 Shangri-La Drive Lexington Park, MD 20653

For Every 9 Half Gallons You Buy Receive 1 Half Gallon FREE!

Lic #12999

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

REGULAR PRICE: $65 PER WEEK IN EACH NEWSPAPER Contact Us: 301-373-4125 sales@ countytimes.net

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

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

30

St. Mary’s Department of Aging Programs and Activities “The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber” On Sunday, March 1 the Department of Aging & Human Services is sponsorimg a trip to Riverside Dinner Theater in Fredericksburg, Virginia to hear the signature songs of the most acclaimed musical theater composer of the past five decades. The staged concert pays tribute to the maestro who has given us Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Starlight Express, Jesus Christ Superstar, Cats, Sunset Boulevard, Aspects of Love, and Requiem. The cost is $90.00 per person and includes motor coach transportation, dinner and show at the theater, all tips and gratuities and snacks for the return trip.

The bus departs the Garvey Senior Activity Center at 11:30 a.m. and returns at approximately 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 301-475-4200, ext. 1062.

workshop will be held Feb. 11 at 10 a.m. and is designed to help those just beginning their family history research. The “Genealogy Research on the Internet” workshop on Feb 18 at 10 a.m. is for people who have already begun their online family research journey, but have hit a road block and need more personal research assistance. Sign-ups are required by calling 301-475-4002, ext. 1001.

Ocean Downs Casino On Wednesday, Mar. 25 the Department of Aging & Human Services is sponsoring a trip to Ocean Downs Casino. The cost is $40.00 and includes coach bus transportation and free slot play (free play amount dependent upon group size). Lunch is on your own at the casino. Valid photo identification is required; participants must be 21 years of age or older. The bus will depart the Garvey Senior Activity Center at 7:00 a.m. and return at approximately 6:30 p.m. Advance payment required. For more information, call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050.

Learn how to Take a CSM Online Class Have you ever wanted to take up a new hobby or learn more about a topic that interests you such as Genealogy, Beginning Drawing, or writing your life story? It is easy to take classes online! Classes are available to persons 60+ for a reduced rate. A tutorial on how to navigate the CSM website will be held at the Loffler Senior Activity Center on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 10:30 a.m. Although this is a free workshop, registration is required by calling 301-737-5670, ext.

1658 or by signing up at the Loffler reception desk. Seating is limited to 12 if at least 4 people bring their own laptops. The class will be held in the computer lab (8 stations are available.)

Self-Discovery through Genealogy Two workshops are being held in February at the Northern Senior Activity Center for those seeking to learn more about their personal history. A “Genealogy Basics”

Health Connections Series on Diabetes – First Class Health Connections will be beginning its four part diabetic series on Feb. 10 at 11 a.m. at the Northern Senior Activity Center with the presentation “On the Road to Better Managing Your Diabetes.” This class will cover myths/facts about diabetes as well as tips on physical activity and diet. For more information, call 301-475-4002, ext. 1001.

Hearing Tips from an Audiologist Dr. Kelly Smouse from Hearing Pro-

SENIOR LIVING fessionals will be at the Northern Senior Activity Center on Feb. 12 at 11 a.m. to discuss hearing loss: how it happens, its links to memory problems, treatment options, as well as communication tips. For more information, call 301-475-4002, ext. 1001.

February Comfort Food & Jazz Piano On Wednesday, Feb. 25 at noon, the Garvey Senior Activity Center will serve a meal of beef stroganoff with egg noodles, roasted beets, spinach and fresh orange salad, chocolate dipped strawberries, and milk/ coffee/tea. Following the meal, enjoy jazz music by solo pianist, Meleah Backhaus.

Ms. Backlaus is a classically trained pianist and composes and performs regularly. To sign up for this event, call 301-475-4200, Ext. 1050.

Love Day at Loffler Tickets are available for the annual Love Day party planned for Feb. 10 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cost is $9 suggested donation and includes live music by Rearview Mirror, a luncheon featuring stuffed shells with meat sauce, door prizes, raffles, dancing and more. Pick up your tickets at the Loffler Senior Activity Center any time between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday – Friday. Please note, we are not able to schedule a snow day for this event so if inclement weather closes the center on that day, your money or check will be returned to you. Call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658 for more information.

Trip to See the Washington Nationals We’re taking a trip on Wednesday, May 6 to see the Washington Nationals play the Miami Marlins and you’re invited.

Cost is $76 and includes motor coach trans-

portation, ticket, tip for driver, snack and water on the bus (both ways). Pick up times for this trip will be: Loffler Senior Activity Center 9 a.m.; Garvey Senior Activity Center 9:30 a.m.; Northern Senior Activity Center 10 a.m. Space is limited; call Joyce at 301-737-5670, ext. 1656 to learn more.

Your seat is reserved only when payment is received.

Trip to Infinity Theater in Annapolis Make plans now for annual trip to the Infinity Theater in Annapolis. On Jun. 18 we will enjoy a lunch buffet at The Broadneck Café followed by a matinee production of “Ring of Fire,” a musical that celebrates the artistic contributions of the legendary Johnny Cash. From the opening chords of vintage Rockabilly to gentle songs of love and deep faith, this production packs a score that provides a rich fabric in which to lay down the story of Johnny Cash. Giving the music the spotlight, a core group of talented actor/musicians celebrate the songs that are a part of our collective experience, such as “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and of course, “Ring of Fire.”

For your convenience, pick up locations will be at all three senior activity centers in the morning. We will arrive in Annapolis around 11:30 a.m. and will be at the theater in time for the 2 p.m. show. We plan to be back in St. Mary’s County around 6 p.m. Cost for this trip is $85, which includes: luxury motor coach transportation, lunch buffet, show, snacks, water and all gratuities including bus driver tip. Contact Shellie Graziano at 301-737-5670, ext. 1655 or by e-mail: Sheila.graziano@stmarysmd. com for more information.

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

Thomas Notley

By Linda Reno Contributing Writer Thomas Notley was born ca1634 in County Dorset, England. He arrived in Maryland about 1662. Very little is known about his origins, but he immigrated (paid his own transportation), was educated and served as personal attorney to Charles Calvert, 3rd Lord Baltimore for a time. He was also identified as a merchant and planter. He served both in the Lower and Upper Houses of the Maryland General Assembly, but his most meaningful appointments were as Deputy Lieutenant Governor in 1676 and then as Deputy Governor from 1676 until his death.

Governor Notley lived and died a bachelor, but his name was perpetuated through his godchildren, e.g., Thomas Notley Goldsmith, Notley Maddox, Notley Warren, Notley Maddox, sister of the previous Notley Goldsmith, Notley Warren and Notley Rozier. The name Notley is still being given to children in the

Maddox family to this day.

When his will was made on April 3, 1679 Notley left bequests in various amounts of cash or tobacco to these godchildren. One, Notley Rozier, was to receive his property called “Cerne Abbey Manor”. This property intrigued me and I decided to chase it down.

Lo and behold there is an area in Washington, D.C. known as “Cerne Abbey Manor.” It includes all of Capitol Hill, parts of Anacostia and a large part of the city from 9th and K St., NW. to the Potomac River. It is the same property that Governor Notley devised to Notley Rozier.

I then began wondering where the name originated. When our ancestors came to Maryland and patented land, they would often name the property after the place where they lived in the old world. “Cerne Abbey Manor” was no exception. The name was taken from Cerne Abbas, located in the County of Dorsey, England.

“Cerne Abbas grew up around the great

A Journey Through Time The

Benedictine abbey, which was founded here in AD987. For more than 500 years, the abbey dominated the area but was largely destroyed in 1539 during the Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. Also there is St. Mary the Virgin Church which has been around since at least 1317. Two memorial brass tablets in the floor of the nave of the church, dated 1612 and 1626, refer to the Notley family.”

One of these tablets reads: “ Here lyeth buried the body of John Notley late of Cerne Abbotts in the County of Dorset Yeoman who died ye last day of February AD1612 being 72 yeres of age.” He was certainly a relative of Thomas Notley, but how they were related I don’t know at this point.

Cerne Abbas is also known for the Cerne Abbas giant. It is a 180’ tall chalk male figure carved into a steeply sloping hill, overlooking the village. “His provenance is uncertain.

Some believe that he represents the Roman god, Hercules, and is over 1500 years old.

However, that’s pure speculation because

Chronicle

there are no known records before 1694.” It certainly shows a man, fully nude, from the front. If interested, check it out.

31

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Wanderings of an

Aimless

d

Min

“Tidbit, My Tidbit”

By Shelby Opperman Contributing Writer I am always amazed that our doggie Tidbit is still running for tennis balls at 12 ½ years old.

But when my husband throws the ball, and he can throw it far, she flies like the part Whippet she is.

Now, of course, she will only race after the ball from one to three times and then when done she takes the ball to another area of the yard and lays down. Or she will take it and start walking back to the house to let us know she is done. I think that all her lumps and bumps (like me, her Mother) must cause friction and pain when she runs. But to see that eager face, raised front leg, and quivering body each time my husband lifts his arm to throw – you would think Tidbit was still a puppy again.

She is the same way on windy days. Tidbit acts like a puppy on windy days too. She prances around, flinging sticks up in the air, and doing her happy dog dance on her back in the rough, coarse winter grass. She chases dried leaves in the breeze much like she chases and eats bees in the summer.

Inside the house, she loves the season’s spiders. They don’t stand a chance against Tidbit. Well, except for those huge Wolf spiders in the laundry room, or the “Hoppers” that come in the basement. Tidbit also doesn’t seem to like Stink Bugs – darn it!

When I think back to when we went to pick Tidbit up at Homewoods Rescue for the Wayward Hound in Salisbury on February 14th, 2003 – yes she was my Valentine’s Day present – I remember how sweet she looked, how they said she loved cats (they didn’t mention it was as a delicacy) how they said she was calm and loving, and how they must have given her Valiums to make us believe this and which caused her to get sick all over our van on that first ride home. I remember how she jumped on everyone and everything. I don’t believe in hitting dogs because I feel like they have already forgotten what they are getting punished for most times, so for Tidbit I used the water bottle trick. Whenever she tried to jump on the couch, the bed, or people we would give a little squirt. It worked so well that she was cured quickly of those behaviors. Now if you pat your legs she will jump up and hug or kiss you for a second or two. And she knows which chair is hers down in the basement. She has a nice old wing chair with blankets and a throw. That isn’t to say that she doesn’t immediately get up on the upstairs couch when we are out the door. Well, really how can she look out the picture window if she doesn’t get up on the couch. Our neighbor’s dog, Syd does the same thing. As soon as they are down the driveway, Syd is up in their picture window with his head moving the vertical blinds. Dogs want to know what is going on too.

Sometimes, I find it hard to believe how much you can love a dog. If asked, my sons might say (I won’t say “would say” for my own self-esteem) that I loved our various dogs more than them, especially when they were called the dog’s name more than their own if I was having to yell at them or for them. But both my sons love dogs, and don’t seem to mind it when I refer to them as Tidbit’s brothers. I guess they are used to their wacky Mother by now – or should be. I receive Dog books from friends quite often and I treasure them all. I just received a new one for Christmas I have yet to read.

I worry about Tidbit like I do my sons, step-children, and the grandchildren. But with dogs it is always that problem of, “I wish they could tell me what’s wrong or if they don’t feel well”. And now that the Vet has said that Tidbit has Cushing’s Disease I worry more. When I got home after that visit a month or so ago, I of course, looked it up, and found out to my dismay that the average life expectancy after diagnosis, at most, is 18 months. I wish I hadn’t looked it up. I do want to make all the time we have together special and fun for Tidbit, but I don’t want to have a finite number attached. But that is what we might have, so I will enjoy every bit of time with my sweet friend, and put all the other in the back of my mind. Enjoy what we have in the present moment – that is all we really have.

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

Giving Cupid a Run for His Money

By Laura Joyce Contributing Writer Each year, the expectations seem to get worse: if you’re single and over the age of about twelve, when Valentine’s Day arrives, it brings with it a whole host of unreasonable expectations. There’s pressure to go somewhere, pressure to do something, pressure to be someone’s sweetheart, if only for that one day. If you’re not wearing something frilly, something pink or red (men are exempt from this particular requirement, you’ll be relieved to know) and if you can’t be found dancing the evening away in the arms of a beloved other, you may end up feeling defensive, wondering if people are questioning why flowers and chocolates haven’t arrived at your doorstep yet.

Here’s the truth: most people aren’t giving your love life that much thought; they’re too busy trying to avoid the pressure that Valentine’s Day brings to their own lives. While single people get the “Are you dating anyone?” questions, it’s not as if married people are any more able to dodge the Valentine’s bullet; the expectations just take a different shape. Husbands worry about whether the card they buy, written by someone putting in a romantic eight hours a day in a cubicle farm somewhere, channels love well enough.

Wives wait to see if this will be the year that reality trumps romance, the year that they finally get a vacuum or a toaster to celebrate the deep intimacy and endless sparks of love (I had a toaster that did indeed represent the sparks of love: it almost set my kitchen on fire).

Last year, the Center for Family Advocacy started a new tradition in honor of Cupid, that chubby little cherub who goes around accosting people with a bow and arrow (I’m sure he means well, although I wish he’d wear more than a diaper, and I also wish he’d deemphasize the expensive cards, the heart-shaped boxes of chocolate, and the soon-to-be-forgotten tokens of affection—except diamonds; I’m all for the occa-

sional diamond). As you may recall, the Center provides legal representation and advocacy, all at no cost, to victims of domestic violence, stalking and other intimate-partner crimes. Our tradition, now in its second year, celebrates the supportive nature of love, the healing power of love, the way that people who have love in their lives and love in their hearts—singles, couples, friends and colleagues—can gather to enjoy each other’s company and end up helping people who have had a different, far less loving experience.

With the support and bottomless help of Fitzie’s Marina Restaurant and Bar, the Center is hosting its second annual “Get Your Heart On” event on Feb. 14 from 7:30 p.m. until midnight. The Hometown Band will be there with great music for dancing. Friends— old and new—will be there with great company for just hanging out. There will be plenty of food and drink, and a fun, friendly, low-pressure atmosphere.

We’re guaranteeing a great time: after all, gathering with friends while raising money for a good cause is a combination you can’t top! Tickets are only $20.00 per person in advance through February 11th and can be purchased online at www.smcfa.net. (Tickets are $25 at the door) You can also advance-purchase tickets by calling 301-373-4141 now through Feb. 11.

Attend as a single, a couple or with a group. As a special bonus, I personally promise that you don’t have to wear frills (pink or red), that no one will ask you who you’re dating, and that I won’t be wondering whether you got a vacuum instead of roses this year.

All you have to do is show up and mingle with people who have the same goal—spending a great evening with like-minded others who know that true love isn’t about greeting cards and boxes of chocolate. It’s about being there when someone needs you. Please join us in reaching out in caring and support for others who may be thinking that love has passed them by.

I love hearing from you; feel free to contact me at thewordtech@md.metrocast.net.

Your Online Community for Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties

New to the area? Lifelong resident?

Over 250,000 Southern Marylanders can’t be wrong!

• • • •

Stay abreast of local happenings Check our highly popular classifieds Speak your mind in the forums Stop by and see what Enter our contests and Southern Maryland Online win terrific prizes has to offer!

www.somd.com

The County Times

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Pet Boarding • Doggie Daycare • Grooming

32

Member

SOUTHERN MARYLAND PET PROFESSIONALS

Veterinarian Recommended • Licensed and Insured

Regularly Inspected, earning consistent excellent evaluations for cleanliness and standards of operation!

Regionally recognized as a provider of a clean, safe, and fun pet experience!

Indoor-Outdoor Patio Runs, Deluxe Cabins, and new Cattery Facility with private and enclosed outdoor cat play yard!

Summer and Holiday dates book fast, so don’t wait!

Free Plush Toy with Your Next Lodging Visit in February or March

Big or Small...

We Take Care of Them All! 26120 Jones Wharf Rd Hollywood, MD 20636

First Visit for Doggie Daycare is Free with your next reservation of 3 or more Doggie Daycare visits in February or March

(301) 373-3400

www.ChessiePets.com

Free Basic Bath

with your new reservation for lodging of 5 days or more in February or March