2017-12-28 St. Mary's County Times by Southern Maryland Online

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The County Times

County Times St. Mary’s

Thursday, December 28, 2017

www.countytimes.somd.com

2017

A Year In Review 1 t r a P

IN LOCAL AMBULANCE ASSOC. SUPPORTS RESCUE TAX HIKE IN COPS & COURTS DEADLY SHOOTOUT IN COLTON’S POINT IN COMMUNITY MLK PRAYER BREAKFAST PLANNED

The County Times

CONTENTS Local News

Education

Cops & Courts

In Our Community

Feature

Obituaries

Sports

Contributing Writers

Community Calendar

Entertainment

Games

Business Directory

“

LOCAL

Thursday, December 28, 2017

”

“THESE SUPPLIES PUT A GREAT STRAIN ON THE SQUADS’ BUDGETS.”

— JOE WILKINSON, COUNTY AMBULANCE AND RESCUE ASSOCIATION CHAIR, ON SUPPORT FOR FIRE AND RESCUE TAX HIKE IN VALLEY LEE.

In Local Page 4

In Local Page 6

In Community Page 11

Do You Feel Crabby When You Get Your Insurance Bill In The Mail?

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

For staff listing and emails, see page 29

Bryan's Road

Give Us A Call Leonardtown

You'll Be Glad You Did.

Free InItIal ConsultatIon

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

Auto Accidents Workers’ comp

Olde Towne Insurance AUTO - HOME - BUSINESS Leonardtown 301-475-3151

Bryans Road 301-743-9000

www.danburris.com An Independent Agent Representing: ERIE INSURANCE GROUP

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

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

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

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The County Times

Ambulance Association Supports Tax Increase By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

The St. Mary’s County Ambulance and Rescue Association (SMCARA) has thrown its support behind a controversial request for an increase in the fire and rescue tax for the Second District Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad in Valley Lee. “Recent discussion within the Second District community has questioned the [Valley Lee volunteers’] statement about the increased costs of medical supplies and MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s replacement of those supplies,” wrote SMCARA Chair Joe Wilkinson to the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County in a Nov. 26 missive. “All the squads pay for numerous supplies from their operating budgets including, but not limited to, hemostatic dressings, head blocks, glucometer supplies, safety glasses, hearing protection and expired medications. “These supplies put a great strain on the squads’ budgets.” The request from the Valley Lee station is to help defray the costs of medical supplies and the ever increasing expenses for operations but they are also planning on building an entirely new

facility just behind the current 56 year old station, which volunteers say is long overdue. The cost of a new station comes in at about $8 million but many residents have said they do not want the tax increase and publicly questioned whether the volunteers needed a new station. The proposed increase would take the 4.4 percent fire tax rate for the 2nd District and raise it to 5.6 percent; the same tax rate for the 9th District would rise from 3.6 percent to 5 percent. The rescue tax, 0.8 percent for both districts, would more than double under the new plan by going to 1.7 percent. The fire and rescue tax rate there has not changed since 2000. Firehouse officials estimated the annual increase in the tax bill for homeowners with an average house assessed value of about $300,000, would be a little over $60. The leadership at the Valley Lee station are expected to make their formal request for a tax increase to the county commissioners in January. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Hogan Announces Legislation to Protect State Taxpayers

Larry Hogan

Governor Larry Hogan announced that the administration will be submitting legislation to mitigate potential negative impacts of federal tax reform on Maryland taxpayers. The legislation will return any additional state revenue received due to the loss of federal deductions and exemptions. The governor made the following state-

ment at a meeting of the Board of Public Works at the Maryland State House: “As you all know, it looks like the federal tax reform effort may soon be officially signed into law. Its exact impact on the State of Maryland has not yet been determined. It’s clear that some people’s taxes will go down, and some will go up. I know that Comptroller Franchot and his team will be doing an analysis to determine how Maryland taxpayers will be affected. However, it is very clear that due to the loss of several longstanding federal tax deductions and exemptions, Maryland state revenue will likely increase by hundreds of millions of dollars. “I am announcing today that our administration will submit legislation that will protect our taxpayers, and which will mitigate negative impacts of these changes to state taxes. Our goal will be to leave that money in the pockets of hardworking Marylanders. I am confident that our partners in the General Assembly who have expressed concern over the impact of this tax reform bill will support us unanimously in protecting Marylanders who could be negatively affected. Protecting taxpayers should be a bipartisan issue.” Press Release from Office of Gov. Larry Hogan.

Local News

Fire Department Leaders Call For Policy Review By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

The president and chief of the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department have asked the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County to engage an outside consultant to review the policies, practices and procedures of the emergency communications and paging system that has been the focus of much concern in the county. Events came to a head Oct. 24 when an infant in cardiopulmonary distress in Lexington Park died; much earlier that morning there were noted malfunctions at the emergency communications center in Leonardtown that the county states were fixed minutes before the call for help went out. The vendor of the system, Harris, only last week briefed the commissioners on the incident and said essentially that the system worked properly despite some issues with outside radios producing signal congestion. A Harris technician responded to a service request when personnel at the county’s emergency operations center found the consoles were not transmitting properly, their report stated, and arrived at 5:55 a.m. to deal with the problem Oct. 24. Normal dispatching from the consoles resumed at 6:30 a.m.; the call for the infant in cardio-pulmonary distress came

out five minutes later. Emergency responders were on the scene in Lexington Park in minutes. The letter from Leonardtown Fire Chief Mark Bell and president Thomas A. Mattingly, Jr., received by the county before their briefing by Harris last week, states volunteer complaints about the system have not been taken seriously. “The chain of events leading up to the response to that family’s 911 call, and the manner in which dispatch procedures occurred that morning, only serve to highlight systemic issues that … volunteers… have continually brought to the attention of [Emergency Services and Technology] over the years.” The fire house leaders supported calls from the county’s emergency services committee to have a “qualified third party” review emergency communications policies. “We feel that such a review will give us all an independent look at the things we do together that are successful, highlight weaknesses in what we do and how we do them and result in the compilation of suggestions of best practices, to include a review of the communications system currently in use, for potential implementation in St. Mary’s County,” they wrote. guyleonard@countytimes.net

FUEL DELIVERY . JUMPSTART LOCKOUT . TIRE CHANGE WINCHOUT . LOAD SHIFTS . STORAGE MOTORCYLE & ACCIDENT TOWING LOCAL & LONG DISTANCE

301-737-2636 pjstowing247@gmail.com For All Your Towing And Roadside Needs! Attention High School and College Students... Looking for something to do this summer?

The

County Times team is looking for

Apply NOW

for Immediate Consideration

Interns!

Send resume to aldailey@countytimes.net

and let’s discuss the possibilities. 301.247.7611 | www.countytimes.net

The County Times

Local News

Maryland Researchers Win National Challenge

Sell it - Buy it Sell It, atBuy it at

Team will Study Storm Event Impact on Bay

AUCTION

Real Estate │ Business & Inventory │ Personal Property/Estates │ Farm Equipment & Machinery │ Livestock │ Storage Units │ Benefits/Fundraisers │ Certified Personal Property Appraiser

EXCITING FUN ● FASTAuctions ● EFFICIENT ● Upcoming & Events EXCITING

Conowingo Dam

A Southern Maryland professional auction company providing services to individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations for a variety of purposes. OPTIONS - SOLUTIONS - RESULTS

www.FarrellAuctionService.com 301.904.3402

LIST P Just Listed! $189 RICE ,900 47729 Devin Circle, Lexington Park, MD 20653 OWN D Y E ON NO M REA! A

ONLY $189,900

OWN FOR LESS THAN $1100 PER MONTH!!

3 BDRM 1 FULL AND 2 HALF BATHS HOME - VAULTED MASTER BDRM. LIVING ROOM IN FRONT, FAMILY ROOM IN REAR, KITCHEN AND 1/2 BATH IN THE MIDDLE. LARGE DECK IS WHOLE BACK YARD. GREAT LOCATION FOR BASE EMPLOYEES AND THOSE WHO WANT TO BE JUST OUTSIDE THE DOWNTOWN AREA OF THE PARK. OWN FOR LESS THAN RENT!!

Steve Atkocius Broker/Realtor Purple Post Real Estate www.SteveSellsMd.com

301-399-3089

Thursday, December 28, 2017

I HAVE SOLD MANY HOMES IN YOUR AREA RECENTLY AND IN THE LAST 20 Years!

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) and Maryland Department of Natural Resources have been named one of five winners of a $10,000 Stage 1 Prize in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s national Nutrient Sensor Action Challenge. UMCES and Maryland Department of Natural Resources worked together to detail a plan for using newly developed nutrient sensors to explore questions related to the infilling of Conowingo Dam and how storm events will impact water quality in the Chesapeake Bay. The project would place two sensors in the upper Chesapeake Bay to provide data on the speed and extent of nutrient pulses into the bay during storm events. This can help validate models for Chesapeake Bay restoration and give insight into the effect these nutrients—nitrogen and phosphorous—will have on algal blooms and dead zones in the estuary. The Nutrient Sensor Action Challenge is a technology-accelerating water quality challenge from a coalition of federal agencies to demonstrate how nutrient sensors can be used by states and local communities to help manage nutrient pollution. The challenge called for demonstrations showing the effective use of low-cost sensors and innovative partnerships to pilot the sensors and show how collected data and information can be part of state and local decision-making. Teams nationwide submitted action plans detailing how they intend to deploy and use sensors to meet challenge goals. The five winning Stage 1 teams, including the UMCES-Department of Natural Resources project, will compete in Stage 2 of the challenge for an opportunity to win a share $100,000 in prizes to fully implement their proposals. Researchers Lora Harris and Jeremy Testa from the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science’s ChesBiological Laboratory teamed up L apeake with Mark Trice and Bruce Michael from Maryland Department of Natural ReI the sources to develop a plan to monitor the of storms and Conowingo Dam inS effects puts on nutrients in the upper Chesapeake T Bay. “This project is an ideal example of I how Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the University of Maryland N Center for Environmental Science work in to seek funding and new tools G partnership to address Maryland’s biggest challenges the restoration of Chesapeake Bay,” P facing said UMCES President Peter Goodwin. R The Conowingo Dam, located on the

Susquehanna River where it enters the Chesapeake Bay above Havre de Grace, Maryland, has long been trapping sediment being washed downstream from the Susquehanna watershed. The state has been reassessing the ability of the dam to keep the sediment—and associated nutrients that could potentially contribute to algae blooms and dead zones— from entering the bay. “The effect has largely been evaluated using models, so there is a need to have better data to understand how storm events affect the bay,” said Jeremy Testa of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. “We’ll deploy these where we can measure the impact of a big flow event, using sensors to track how far the nutrient pulse reaches down-bay, and how long it sticks around.” The sensors will be placed at sites in the upper and mid-bay regions—there are already measurements being made at the mouth of the Susquehanna River by the U.S. Geological Survey—to take realtime measurements of levels of nitrate and phosphate during and after storm events. “There could be a lot of sediment that comes over the dam—as well as dissolved nutrients—and there could be a lot of phosphate and nitrate that eventually regenerate from those particles. Going out in a boat every two weeks to take measurements isn’t going to tell us much about the effect a storm has,” said UMCES researcher Lora Harris of the traditional way of measuring nutrients by collecting samples from boats. “We can now put automatic sensors out to do that in any weather.” Maryland Department of Natural Resources will deploy and maintain the sensors, provide data management and quality assurance, and make the results available to the public through its Eyes on the Bay water quality website. The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science will analyze and interpret the data to assess the role of storms and seasonal cycles on nutrient availability in the upper Chesapeake Bay, and work with the department to apply the results to management questions and decisions. “Mitigating the water quality impacts from the lower Susquehanna River is one of Maryland’s highest priorities in reaching our bay restoration goals by 2025,” said Resource Assessment Service Director Bruce Michael, who reviewed the project for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. “The additional nutrient sensors strategically placed in the upper Chesapeake Bay will provide scientists and managers will key information documenting the effectiveness of Conowingo mitigation practices.” The Nutrient Sensor Action Challenge is a collaboration between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Institute of Standards and Technology and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-led U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System. Press Release from MD DNR.

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The County Times

Local

The County Times

n o t g n e i v x i t e L ark Ault cCommunity P Ad NOW Available 1 & 2 bedroom apartments

21895 Pegg Road • Lexington Park, MD 20653 • (240)725-0111

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! With best wishes to our customers for a great holiday season and a healthy year ahead.

enjoy responsibly

Guy Distributing Co. Inc Leonardtown, MD SERVING ST. MARY’S COUNTY FOR OVER 75 YEARS

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Commissioners Continue Push for SMHEC Funding By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Last week the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County formally asked Gov. Larry Hogan to continue support in his budget for a third building at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center focused on unmanned and autonomous research in a partnership with the University System of Maryland. “To keep the project on track to open by 2020, $27.8 million is needed in the state’s Fiscal Year 2019 Capital Budget,” commissioners wrote Dec. 19. Local elected leaders noted that in fiscal 2016 they made $1 million available from local taxpayer money “to facilitate the design of this facility.” The third building is seen as a key asset in the county’s push to diversify the local economy, which for decades has been dependent on the Navy and the defense acquisition industry, by playing on its strengths in developing emerging

technologies by transferring them from defense to civilian markets. The county commissioners, along with Hogan and U.S. Rep Steny Hoyer, recently dedicated a new business incubator that will help start up companies with bringing their products to civilian markets. The incubator is tied to the University System of Maryland’s UAS test site located at the St. Mary’s County Airport. The airport has also seen major expansions in the past year with contractors bringing in aircraft maintenance business from foreign countries. Commissioners said last week that they had not seen the governor’s budget but Commissioner Hewitt said it was in a draft copy. The building is budgeted to cost $82 million. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Navy Team Expedites Gunner Seat Replacement

Applying accelerated acquisition strategies and rapid prototyping, the Naval Air Systems Command’s Aircrew Systems program office (PMA-202) is well underway toward fielding a replacement for the MH-60S Seahawk Gunner Seat by 2019. “The existing MH-60S Seahawk Gunner Seat has directly contributed to medical groundings, degraded mission performance and a growing number of chronic back injuries among service members,” said Capt. Dave Padula, PMA-202 program manager. This issue has been identified for several years as a top Helicopter Sea Combat community safety priority, and has now reached the number two safety priority for all of Naval Aviation. Originally, the PMA-202 MH-60S Gunner Seat Team sought an industry solution to provide the fleet with a qualified seating system that could address the concerns raised in hazard reports and fleet visits. With the need to find a cost-effective solution that could be implemented as quickly as possible, top Navy leadership turned to the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD)’s AIRWorks rapid prototyping team. “In addition to the seat design work, AIRWorks is providing program management, lead systems integration, engineering, test and logistics management support for this project,” said Gerald Swift, director of NAWCAD AIRWorks. “We’re also fully engaged in the design/CAD drawing conversion, drafting and final material selection.” Within six months, the team had completed its initial design, using details based on existing performance specifications and supplemental fleet input. The concept design was completed by August 2016, and

by September the first prototype was built. The objective of the first prototype was to prove that NAVAIR could provide an upgrade that could address the fleet’s primary concerns of inadequate leg clearance, insufficient back support, and no adjustability with the existing seat. By November, the prototype was flown using HSC-28 resources for a total of three flight hours at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. And in January 2017, the team took the prototype on a first-of-its kind roadshow to NAS North Island in San Diego, Calif., allowing more than 150 pilots and aircrew to sit in the seat and provide their feedback. Concern with the existing seat was voiced again during the flag panel at the Naval Helicopter Association (NHA) Symposium in May 2017. In response, Rear Admiral DeWolfe Miller (OPNAV N98) announced that he would fully fund a replacement gunner seat program. By June 2017, a follow-on formal acquisition effort was established to design, test, and build the next-generation gunner seat. Since then, the NAVAIR/NAWCAD team has been refining and redesigning the seat, digitizing drawings and creating technical data packages in preparation to flight test the second prototype in March 2018. In addition, a 10-person Gunner Seat Fleet Task Force was created to allow the fleet to provide real-time input during each step of the prototype’s development. By taking “Speed to the Fleet” initiatives to heart, the NAVAIR/NAWCAD team has kept the focus on delivering fleet capability; understanding, managing and accepting risk; and communicating, collaborating and building trust among its stakeholders. Press Release from AIR-1.0 Public Affairs

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Local News

Season’s Greetings from St. Mary’s College of Maryland Start the New Year right and plan to attend the following events: JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

Dr. Martin Luther King, Spring Awakening, the Jr., Prayer Breakfast musical

An Evening to Honor the David E. Sanger Legacy of Lucille Clifton Presented by the Presidential Lecture Series

January 15 Breakfast ($10) 6:30-8 a.m. Program 8 – 10 a.m. J. Frank Raley Great Room Day of Service 10 a.m.-Noon

March 1 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.) Daugherty-Palmer Commons

February 28 – March 3, 8-10 p.m. March 4, 2-4 p.m. Bruce Davis Theater, Montgomery Hall Ticketed Event

47645 College Dr. St. Mary’s City, MD 20686

April 6 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. – Keynote and Q & A 9 p.m. – Book Signing St. Mary’s Hall Ticketed Event

Visit www.smcm.edu for more information on these and other upcoming events at St. Mary’s College.

Education

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

St. Mary’s College Named Best Value

St. Mary’s College of Maryland has been named to the Kiplinger’s Personal Finance list of the Top 300 Best College Values of 2018. Introduced in 1998, Kiplinger’s rankings highlight public schools, private universities and private liberal arts colleges that combine outstanding academics with affordable cost. St. Mary’s College has been consistently named to the list since its beginning. Kiplinger assesses value by measurable standards of academic quality and affordability. Quality measures include

the admission rate, the percentage of students who return for sophomore year, the student-faculty ratio and four-year graduation rate. Cost criteria include sticker price, financial aid, and average debt at graduation. The complete rankings are now available online at Kiplinger.com/links/colleges and will appear in print in the February 2018 issue of Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, on newsstands January 9. St. Mary’s College also was recognized as the fifth best public liberal arts college in the country by U.S. News

& World Report; a 2017-18 College of Distinction; acknowledged in the 2018 edition of the Fiske Guide to Colleges; ranked in The Best 382 Colleges review book by The Princeton Review; a Top 25 Hidden Gem for Women in STEM by CollegeRaptor.com; ranked one of the Best Colleges in Maryland by AdvisoryHQ News; named to “Best Colleges for Your Money” by Money magazine; and listed eighth best affordable out-of-state school by AffordableColleges.com. St. Mary’s College of Maryland is accredited by the Middle States Com-

mission on Higher Education through 2024-2025. St. Mary’s College, designated the Maryland state honors college in 1992, is ranked one of the best public liberal arts schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Approximately 1,600 students attend the college, nestled on the St. Mary’s River in Southern Maryland. Press Release from SMCM.

CSM Announces Keynote Speaker The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) will recognize candidates for degrees and certificates during its 19th Winter Commencement Jan. 18 at the La Plata Campus. Recognizing CSM’s nearly 60-year relationship with the Navy, a keynote address will be provided by Ashley Johnson. Johnson is the technical director of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division (NSWC IHEODTD), where he directs a multi-site workforce of approximately 1,900 employees with annual operations of more than $1 billion. Johnson’s message to the graduates will focus on the value of failure in the learning process, he said. “My advice is this: Don’t be afraid to fail. Expect failure. Embrace it. But most importantly, learn from it. I believe there is just as much knowledge in failure as there is in success,” he said. CSM and the NSWC in Indian Head have strengthened ties this past year, including moving forward with plans to open the Velocity Center in Indian Head, a partnership that offers opportunities for CSM students to learn from and work with world-class scientists at NSWC. The college has been associated with Indian Head since 1960 when an apprentice program was established at the Naval Ordnance Station, Indian Head, and this close association with the U.S. Navy has continued throughout the history of the college. “The collaboration between the College of Southern Maryland and my command to establish the Velocity Center in the town of Indian Head, Maryland, was extraordinary,” Johnson said. “One of the challenges I face as technical director is the speed of the government’s acquisition cycle. Developing a new technology and getting it into the hands of the warfighter is an incredibly long and sometimes arduous process. And, true to its name, the Velocity Center will help speed up that process, while proving other incredible benefits to the command, the college and the community. “Imagine a place where government and industry meet to discuss bettering technology for our armed forces, a

place where they can go and get funding through grants, a place where students can go and learn first-hand; both the successes and failures of our collaborative enterprises and apply it to their own studies. That is the goal of the Velocity Center: a place for innovation, collaboration, research and knowledge sharing,” Johnson said. “None of this would be possible without the commitment and support from the College of Southern Maryland. CSM stepped up to answer the call when it mattered, and I am grateful to this institution and its leadership for what will undoubtedly be a boon to our respective organizations, the tri-county area, and ultimately the men and women of armed forces.” Ashley Johnson Career Notes Johnson’s division at NSWC is charged with leading the U.S. Department of Navy in providing energetics, ordnance and EOD technical capabilities for all DoD interests through research, development, testing, evaluation, engineering, manufacturing and in-service support. “I am a chief of strategy officer,” Johnson said. “It is my job to oversee our projects and to ensure my workforce is accomplishing its objectives using safe and reliable operating procedures.” During his tenure as technical director, Johnson has led the development of several major initiatives: a comprehensive strategic plan to revitalize and reinvigorate the facility and workload; a business case analysis to ensure optimal capabilities are maintained and developed; and the implementation of Center for Industrial Technical Excellence partnerships. Johnson also serves under the Chief Engineer of the Navy as the Deputy Warrant Officer for Explosive Ordnance Engineering. Johnson began his career at the former NSWC Indian Head Division in 1987 and spent the next 12 years managing the command’s manufacturing operations for missile, torpedo and projectile warhead production. From 19992001, he managed and directed facilities and personnel within the command’s Surface Weapons and Ammunition Program. Johnson served as the Navy’s of-

ficial spokesperson for the scale-up and production of nitramine gun propellants during the Gulf War. From 2006-2012, Johnson served as the department head for the Office of Naval Research’s Hybrid Complex Warfare Science Division, where he managed and directed the integration of a science and technology (S&T) program consisting of basic and applied research, advanced technology development and other efforts. He also served as the applications director in the Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare and Combating Terrorism S&T Department, where he oversaw both the Future Naval Capability and Exploration and Development programs. Johnson’s other assignments included a tour as the S&T advisor at U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific, where he served with the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command to include a deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. In 1987, Johnson earned a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Rochester in Rochester, N.Y. In 2008, he graduated from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces as the Commandant’s Distinguished Graduate and has a Master of Science in national resource strategy. He has completed the Defense Acquisition University Senior Acquisition Course, Navy Strategic Thinking Course and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Seminar XXI. Johnson received the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award in 2006, the Navy Superior Civilian Service Award in 2013 and was selected to the Senior Executive Service in 2013. CSM Winter Commencement Schedule CSM’s winter commencement activities Jan. 18 will begin with a Nursing Recognition Ceremony at 1 p.m. in the Physical Education (PE) Center on the La Plata Campus with a reception immediately following on the upper level of the PE Center. The commencement ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. in the PE Center and tickets are required. Ticketholders are

Ashley Johnson

encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony begins. Doors will open for guests at 5 p.m. Doors will close when the procession begins, and guests without tickets or arriving after the doors close may view the ceremony from the Fine Arts (FA) Center, which will carry a live streaming broadcast. A reception immediately following commencement will be in the Center for Business and Industry (BI), Chaney Enterprises Conference Room BI-113. In the event of inclement weather, a decision will be announced and posted at www.csmd.edu if commencement activities will be held on an alternate date. Graduates and guests may also call the inclement weather hotline at 301-3691999 or 800-650-4023. The safety of CSM students, guests and employees is of utmost importance. CSM will conduct bag checks at commencement, and all individuals may be subject to a bag check before entry. CSM Public Safety officials encourage guests to leave large secondary bags, diaper bags and backpacks in their vehicles or at home as these will be subject to the bag check process at the door. Due to commencement activities, the PE building at the La Plata Campus will be closed for fitness and aquatics activities on Jan. 18. For information on commencement, visit www.csmd.edu/commencement.

The County Times

Make It MERRY

Thursday, December 28, 2017

PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH EGG NOG

$899 $1679

MARTINI & ROSSI ASTI

$1288 $2099

MR. BOSTONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOLIDAY NOG

FIREBALL CINNAMON WHISKEY

$1749 $2879

750 ML

1.75 LTR

1.5 LTR

CAROLANS IRISH CREAM

$12 $2349 99

BAREFOOT BUBBLY WINE ASSORTED VARIETIES

2/$18

750 ML

1.75 LTR

ZING ZANG

BLOODY MARY MIX

$5 $899 49

KORBEL CHAMPAGNE ASSORTED VARIETIES

$1388

32 OZ

750 ML

64 OZ

BOMBAY SAPPHIRE GIN

BACARDI RUM

ASSORTED VARIETIES

$2199 $3999

$999 $1999

750 ML

MALIBU RUM

ASSORTED VARIETIES

MALIBU COCONUT RUM

SMIRNOFF ORIGINAL VODKA

1.75 LTR

750 ML

$1249 $1899 750 ML

1.75 LTR

TANQUERAY GIN

$19 $3449 99

750 ML

1.75 LTR

$999 $1999 1.75 LTR

TANQUERAY RANGPUR GIN

GODIVA LIQUEUR

$19 $3749 99

ASSORTED VARIETIES

$2799

750 ML

1.75 LTR

GRAND MARNIER LIQUEUR

PATRON TEQUILA

$5149 $4699 $5799

REPOSADO - 750 ML SILVER - 750 ML

ANEJO -750 ML

PRICES EFFECTIVE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15 THRU THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2018

$2149 $3999 375 ML

750 ML

Dave McKay Liquors

Cops & Courts

42126 VALLEY DR. MECHANICSVILLE, MD 20659

The County Times

LIST PR $269 ICE ,900

DOWN $ $ NO ! AREA

OWN FOR LESS THAN $1550 MONTH!! 3 Bedroom, 2 Full Baths, **Full Finished Basement!**HUGE Fenced Lot, ALL NEW EVERYTHING! New Kitchen Cabinets, New Stainless Steel Appliances, New Lighting, New Wood Floors, New Carpeting, New ROOF, New SIDING, New WINDOWS, New HVAC System, Ceramic Baths. New CUSTOM DECK!! Extremely Picturesque Setting! ..SPECTACULAR! I HAVE SOLD

Steve Atkocius Broker/Realtor Purple Post Real Estate www.SteveSellsMd.com

MANY HOMES IN YOUR AREA RECENTLY AND IN THE LAST 20 Years!

301-399-3089

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

Thursday, December 28, 2017

One Dead in Christmas Eve Shootout

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Police have identiﬁed the father and son participants in the Colton’s Point shootout that took place Christmas Eve, leaving 66-year-old Roger Allen Bruce, of New Market, Va. dead from multiple gunshot wounds. Roger Bruce was attending a family gathering at the Dukeharts Creek Road home of his son, Michael Allen Bruce, 45, when an argument escalated into violence; according to police the elder Bruce left and returned with a gun and began shooting at his own son. Michael Bruce returned ﬁre and hit his father several times. Police responded at about 4p.m. and emergency medical personnel tried to

save the elder Bruce’s life but he succumbed to his wounds on the scene. Michael Allen Bruce has not been charged in the shooting death of his father. Police sources conﬁrmed that both parties in the shootout were armed with handguns and that the decedent was struck more than once. Capt. Edward Willenborg, commander of the sheriff’s ofﬁce detective unit, said the investigation into the shooting is ongoing. “He [Michael Bruce] has not been charged,” Willenborg told The County Times. “We have not completed the investigation.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

L Maryland Man Sentenced to 25 Years I for Productions of Child Pronorgraphy S On December 19, 2017, United States liam M. Pallozzi, Superintendent of the District Judge Roger W. Titus sentenced Maryland State Police; and Sheriff TimT Aaron Lee Smiley, age 57, of Mechanic- othy K. Cameron of St. Mary’s County Maryland to 25 years in prison, Sheriff’s office. I sville, followed by a lifetime of supervised reAccording to his plea agreement, belease, for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor tween 2014 and 2016, Smiley had four N for the Purpose of Producing Child Por- victims ages 12 through 16. Smiley Judge Titus also ordered for- exchanged pictures, text messages, inG nography. feiture of Smiley’s interest in his house ternet chats and videos with the minors he used the computer in his using a variety of programs, including P because home office to sexually exploited mi- Skype, ooVoo, and KIK. R nors for the purpose of producing child During a raid of his home, Departpornography. ment of Homeland Security agents reI The sentence was announced by Act- covered over 100 online video recording United States Attorney for the Dis- ings of chats between Smiley and one C trict of Maryland Stephen M. Schen- of the victims in which he entices the Special Agent in Charge Gordon underage victim to engage in sexual exE ning; B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of plicit conduct for the purpose of producBaltimore Field Office; ing visual depictions. : Investigation, Special Agent in Charge Andre R. Watof U.S. Immigration and Customs —U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of $ son Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland SecuMaryland 2 rity Investigations (HSI); Colonel Wil1 Robbery Under Investigation 9 On December 16, 2017, at approxi- with Gaines on the night of the robbery. 6:53 PM, deputies from the St. On December 18, 2017, Gaines was lo, mately Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office respond- cated at his residence and placed under to the 23000 block of Green Holly arrest without incident and charged with 9 ed Road, in Lexington Park, for a report of the following: armed robbery. Contact was made 0 an Armed Robbery with the victim who advised he arranged Robbery meet an acquaintance to conduct a 0 to Assault 1st Degree drug transaction. The victim arrived at the predesignated location and the individual he was meeting got into his vehicle. The victim advised he was immediately assaulted, and during the assault two unknown persons opened the car door and began to assault him as well. During the struggle, a handgun was produced and the victim was subsequently assaulted with the handgun. In addition to being assaulted, various items of value were taken from the victim. The victim was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital for non-life threating injuries sustained in the robbery. The investigation was continued by the Criminal Investigations Division (CID), and through the course of the investigation it was revealed Jerel Theodore Gaines, age 19, of Great Mills, Maryland, was the individual the victim met with. Detectives were also able to identify the two other individuals who were

Assault 2nd Degree Firearm-Use/Fel Violent Crime Theft $100 to under $1500 Arrest warrants have also been issued for Gaines’ two accomplices: Neisa Jordan Gaston, age 18, of Bushwood, Maryland Teo-Tre Richard Gaston, age 18, of Mechanicsville, Maryland Additional criminal charges are forthcoming after review with the State’s Attorney’s Ofﬁce. Anyone with information regarding this incident or the whereabouts of the Neisa Gaston and Teo-Tre Gaston, is asked to contact Detective Melissa Hulse at (301) 475-4200 extension *1996, or by email at Melissa.Hulse@stmarysmd. com. Citizens may also remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at (301) 475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637).

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Open Letter to Citizens of St Mary’s County

The 2018 General Assembly Session is right around the corner and I am looking forward to returning to Annapolis to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass laws to improve the lives of St. Mary’s citizens and all Marylanders. Over the past year, I have reached out for Deb Ray your ideas for new legislation and improving existing laws, and you responded! This year I am submitting bills to continue the oyster shell recycling tax credit, create a new category of third degree assault enabling prosecutors and judges to better match charges and sentences to crimes, change the firearms carry permit process so applicants can wait until after the state has reviewed their applications and provided preliminary approval before taking expensive certification training, define the term “child care” in the law, and many others. I truly appreciate your willingness to participate in the legislative process. I also sent out a 2017 Constituent Survey to many households in my district, and the response has been great. If you did not receive a survey and would like to participate, please go to www.DebRey.com and click on the link for the survey. Sharing where you stand on the issues helps me do a better job at representing you in Annapolis. Once again, I will hold several town hall meetings during this year’s legislative session where I will brief you on what’s happening in Annapolis and get your feedback. These sessions are always informative and engaging. If you have any concerns or issues I can assist you with, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I am honored to represent you in Annapolis. Deb Rey Delegate, District 29B

In Our Community

Baby Turtle Found in Fossilized Matter A baby turtle shell was found for the first time ever in fossilized poop! The Calvert Marine Museum announces the publication of a scientific paper documenting this find which was authored by Stephen J. Godfrey, the museum’s Curator of Paleontology, Robert E. Weems, and Billy Palmer and published in Ichnos, a scientific journal dedicated to the study of trace fossils. During their analysis of the specimen, the authors determined that a predator swallowed a 2 1/2 inchlong whole baby turtle 60 – 70 million years ago in South Carolina. Remarkably, the shell passed through the digestive system of the animal intact, and apparently the feces fossilized shortly thereafter, preserving an impression of the turtle’s shell. The fossilized waste preserving the baby turtle shell impression. The predator may have been either a mosasaur (an aquatic marine reptile from the time of dinosaurs) or a meat-eating dinosaur or bird. This is the first time a body impression of a vertebrate animal has been preserved in a coprolite. Based on the texture of the fossilized shell impression, the tiny turtle lived for a few weeks after it hatched and before it was eaten. Embryonic turtle shell texture is different from hatchling shell texture. As turtles age, new growth occurs around the perimeter of the embryonic scutes, so it is very easy to distinguish between embryonic and hatchling turtle shell texture. In this unique fossil, the surface texture of the scutes is preserved, including its finely pitted embryonic texture and a narrow perimeter of hatchling scute texture. There are two main groups of turtles. Those that retract their necks into their shells (the Cryptodires) The three most likely predators that could have swallowed the baby side-necked turtle comand those that turn their necks to pletely: an aquatic mosasaur (lower left foreground), a terrestrial meat-eating dinosaur (right), or the side of their shell (the Pleuro- less likely, a crocodile (contemplating the scene from a distance). Illustration by Tim Scheirer, © Calvert Marine Museum. dires). We know from the pattern of en the turtle. A crocodile is not ruled out as the predator, the scutes on the shell that this turtle was a Pleurodire; although it is much less likely as the high acid content in a side-neck turtle. Modern pleurodires live only in the their stomach almost always dissolves bone, and conseSouthern Hemisphere, but were present in North Amer- quently would leave no bony shell to be voided to make ica during the Cretaceous period and Paleocene epoch. an impression. Two tyrannosauroids - Appalachiosaurus montgomFor more information, contact Stephen J. Godfrey eriensis and Dryptosaurus aquilunguis are known from (Stephen.Godfrey@calvertcountymd.gov or call 410Late Cretaceous eastern North America. The bird-mim- 326-2042, ext. 28. To read the entire article in Ichnos, ic dinosaurs, the Ornithomimids, were also apparently visit http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10420 there during that time and certainly could have also eat- 940.2017.1386662.

FUEL DELIVERY . JUMPSTART LOCKOUT . TIRE CHANGE WINCHOUT . LOAD SHIFTS . STORAGE MOTORCYLE & ACCIDENT TOWING LOCAL & LONG DISTANCE

301-737-2636 pjstowing247@gmail.com For All Your Towing And Roadside Needs!

In Our Community

The County Times

Pet of the Week Meet Pecan Pie

Hello, my name is Pecan Pie. I got my name because I’m just so SWEET. I’m an ADVENTUROUS BOY who will do anything, even put a silly hat on my head, if it means I could ﬁnd my forever family! I was living outside as a stray with no home of my own when some very nice people decided to bring me to the shelter. I’m 3 YEARS OLD NEUTERED and OH SO LOVABLE! I’d love to have a home with other cat buddies, toys to play with, and a comfy spot to call my own. PLEASE CHOOSE ME!!

And remember, if there is room in the heart, there is room in the house! Come meet me and the wonderful gang at TriCounty Animal Shelter (6707 Animal Shelter Road, Hughesville) or call 301-932-1713 for more information. To see more of my amazing friends available for adoption, “like” us on Facebook @ Tri-County Animal Shelter Southern MD.

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Annual Southern Maryland MLK Prayer Breakfast Scheduled

Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the 14th Annual Southern Maryland Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Breakfast on Monday, Jan. 15, at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. The breakfast will begin at 6:30 a.m. and costs $10 payable at the door. The program will begin at 8 a.m. at no cost, featuring a keynote address by Nandi Crosby-Jordan ’91. Following the program, beginning at 10 a.m. the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.©, Nu Zeta Omega Chapter will host a Day of Service, providing services and activities for students of all ages and adults. The breakfast and program will be held in the J. Frank Raley Great Room, Campus Center (18952 E. Fisher Road). The Day of Service will be held within Cole Cinema, Campus Center. For more information, contact events@smcm.edu or call (240) 895-4310. A proud Baltimore native, Nandi CrosbyJordan joined the faculty of California State University, Chico, in the fall of 1999. She earned a B.A. majoring in psychology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland (1991); an M.A. in Africana Women’s Studies from Clark Atlanta University (1995); and a Ph.D. in sociology from Georgia State University (1999). She is currently the chair of the sociology department and holds a joint appointment in sociology and multicultural & gender studies. Her speciﬁc interests are all things related to social inequality: poverty, gangs, police brutality, feminism, racism and sexism, gender politics, the prison industrial complex, and a host of other social justice issues. In 2016, Dr. Crosby-Jordan

earned the Chico State’s prestigious “Outstanding Teacher” award. Immediately following the breakfast, the Day of Service will continue with a panel discussion titled “The Color of Unity: Boldly Building Bridges Across Communities,” led by community members discussing the state of affairs in areas ranging from education and politics to religion and health. The Day of Service will also include blood pressure screening, a non-perishable food drive for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a coat drive and a backpack giveaway for elementary and middle school students, and voter registration. The Annual Southern Maryland Martin Luther King, Jr., Prayer Breakfast draws community-wide attendance, including local government ofﬁcials, religious leaders, and business persons. The event is sponsored by St. Mary’s College of Maryland, St. Mary’s County Human Relations Commission, St. Mary’s County Public Schools, the College of Southern Maryland, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.©, Nu Zeta Omega Chapter. St. Mary’s College of Maryland is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education through 2024-2025. St. Mary’s College, designated the Maryland state honors college in 1992, is ranked one of the best public liberal arts schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Approximately 1,600 students attend the college, nestled on the St. Mary’s River in Southern Maryland. Press Release from SMCM.

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The County Times

In Our Community

The following businesses encourage you to celebrate responsibly this Holiday Season and do not drink and drive PLUMBER

1894200

Calvert Pawn

A BETTER

Feature

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

2017 Was Full of Conflict, Contention and Sometimes Consensus

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

Political trouble started brewing almost immediately at the start of 2017 as tough decisions had to be made on hot button issues such as bonding authority for critical building projects, a controversial sex education class at the county library and the decision whether to raise impact fees in St. Mary’s on new residential and commercial development. Questions about the appropriateness of particular developments in growing communities also sparked controversy, particularly in Hollywood where a major project at the intersection of Sotterley Road and Route 235 had to go all the way to court just to proceed ahead, only to be scuttled on a technicality. As elected leaders tried to weave consensus out of conflict the county continued to struggle with the burgeoning opioid epidemic which tried severely every aspect of law enforcement and emergency response in the county.

January The beginning of the year started off with good news for veterans living locally. Word came down from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that it was finally moving ahead on soliciting bids for a new community based outpatient clinic (CBOC). This would replace the aging and inadequate facility, carved out of extra space at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home in Charlotte Hall, and give veterans medical and psychological care much closer to home than Baltimore or Washington, D.C. The bidding process got a jumpstart when U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD-5th) chided the veterans administration for dragging its feet on the project. “While the new CBOC was slated to be operation in 2013, this project has been delayed time and again by the VA,” HoyHoyer er wrote back in January. “After sending a letter to VA Secretary Robert McDonald last summer expressing my deep frustration and concern by the delays, I am encouraged that the solicitation has been announced we are taking a step forward.”

February Tensions started to rise quickly between the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County and the state delegation to Annapolis when state lawmakers put a condition on a $26.3 million bonding authority bill that county commissioners would have to eliminate the local energy tax. The move by state lawmakers, which was touted as not only obstructionist but illegal, immediately drew a backlash from the county commissioners. “There’s a difference between politicking and governing,” said Commissioner Tom Jarboe at the time. “We’re trying to govern.”

Jarboe

Outside of the political arena but very close to home in Hollywood, two residents filed suit in county circuit court against the Board of Appeals approval of the Hollywood Commercial Center that was to be located at the intersection of Sotterley Road and Route 235. The project proposed a large gas station, retail shops and eventually a car dealership that would have produced an extra 13,000 vehicle trips a day at the intersection. The residents lost there case and the court eventually ruled in support the Board of Appeals decision which overturned the prior year’s decision by the Planning Commission to deny the plan based on concerns over traffic

safety. But the plan would be forced to go back to the drawing board when newly appointed planning director William Hunt told the developer that their original traffic study was inadequate and the entire project would have to go back to the planning commission.

March By March the situation between the county commissioners and the state delegation had become badly strained over the bonding authority bill issue and seemed ready to derail both critical county construction projects and the political process in Annapolis. But near the end of the month Senator Steve Waugh relented on the then infamous Section 10 of the bill that would have required the county commissioners to eliminate the energy tax to get the bonding authority. “It’s a done deal,” Waugh told The County Times at the time. Central to the deal to remove the clause was a meeting with Commissioner President Randy Guy who laid out to Waugh the county’s bond counsel’s argument that Section 10 was illegal. Despite the apparent political victory for the county, Guy said it was essentially a wasteful fight between the commissioners and the delegation. “It just didn’t accomplish anything,” Guy said. “They were trying to force us to do something and we just weren’t going to do it.” Later in the year when commissioners asked for more bonding authority, the conversation was much more congenial after the two sides had improved their communication on financing Waugh issues.

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Feature

The County Times

April As spring came so did one of the most controversial issues the county commissioners, the library board and citizens have had to deal with in recent memory; a sex education class at the Lexington Park library aimed at children as young as 12

2006 to 2010 Mattingly took checks from parishioners intended for charities and deposited them into a bank account he controlled. The checks made out by parishioners were for the church and the St. Vincent de Paul Society but Mattingly used his pastor’s title to falsely write on checks that they were to be used for those charities but were instead funneled into a personal retirement account. Federal authorities say that Mattingly fraudulently deposited more than 500 checks which totaled at least $76,000 from more than 135 members of the St. Francis Xavier congregation. Mattingly, who died in October, was made to pay $400,000 in restitution to his parish. At his sentencing Mattingly apologized for his crimes but never stated why he took the money; U.S. District Court Judge Deborah Chasanow stated that the facts showed he never spent the money he stole but only seemed to show remorse once he had been caught. Fr. John Mattingly

June years old. The library had previously cancelled the class scheduled for March 4 to be taught by Bianca Palmisano due to intense public backlash but it was soon on again. A non-profit group, the Southern Maryland Association of Secular Humanists (SMASH) invited Palmisano, a Washington, D.C. based sex and health educator, to teach the class to young people who had received the consent of their parents. The one condition, though, was that parents would not be allowed to attend with their children. Palmisano had been attacked for her left wing views and for sexually liberated stances, including support for the LGBT community. The event went ahead in late May amid mild protests from conservative and religious elements; attendance of the event was also moderate. The commissioners continually deflected calls to reign in the decisions of the library system and the library board regarding sensitive topics like sex education, saying that the library board was a state institution and they had no control over it. Supporters of the sex education class said that efforts to cancel or derail it smacked of censorship. Aside from social issues, the commissioners once again found themselves concerned with finances as they faced the necessity to raise the county’s impact fees for the first time in 17 years. The impact fee had remained unchanged at $4,500 per dwelling unit for years but a new ordinance proposed a drastic increase to over $12,000 and then double that figure by the end of 2018. “The impact fee has to be adjusted,” Commissioner Todd Morgan said at the time. But commissioners balked at their own plan to raise the fee so drastically and so quickly, coming up with a compromise of a study group that just recently made a recommendation to raise the fee to just over $10,000. At the height of the controversy though, both realtors and developers were deeply concerned at the proposed increase. “This will have a devastating affect on those getting into home ownership,” said John K. Parlett, a noted developer and soon-to-be member of the task force.

May Parishoners at St. Francis Xavier Church in Compton would get bittersweet justice in May when news came from the U.S. District Court in Greenbelt that Fr. John S. Mattingly, former priest at their church had pleaded guilty to bank fraud. A federal investigation into Mattingly, spurred by questions surrounding the financial health of the parish and the disappearance of tens of thousands of dollars meant for charitable donations that he could not account for, revealed that from

As summer time came the St. Mary’s the opioid epidemic heated up as well, with more overdose deaths reported and public health and law enforcement officials scrambling to contain the epidemic. St. Mary’s Chief Health Officer Dr. Meena Brewster said the lethal overdose increases were being fueled by ever more powerful combinations of dangerous opiates. “There are newer and more mixtures of substances out there,” Brewster said in June. “That’s why we’re seeing these stark rises.” Health officials were also put to work trying to solve another medical mystery; why St. Mary’s County had the highest infection rate for gonorreah in the state. The infection rate for 100,000 people skyrocketed from 34.2 people to 113.6 people from 2015 to 2016, Brewster told county com m issioners mid-year. Brewster said officials were unsure what caused the infection increase but it “was contributed to by various factors.” “It has spiked c o n sid e r a bly,” Brewster said in June. “We’re very concerned about it.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Friday, Jan. 5

5 -8 PM 301-690-2192 www.portofleonardtown.com

Open 7 days a week Noon - 6 pm | 23790 Newtowne Neck Road

Check out the First Friday Specials! ST. MARY’S COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

HOME ELEMENTS

FURNITURE ACCESSORIES DESIGN GIFTS

22660 Washington St. (240) 309-4061 St. Mary’s County Arts Council will be open from 6-8 PM, visit our new Gallery & Gift Shop to find locally created gifts for all of your holiday shopping needs (pictured is “Lotsa Busses” by Lee Anne Shontere). Come meet our artists on First Friday at our new space across from Winegardner Motor Company. The audience participation Drum Circle with the SoMar Drummers will be from 7-8 PM, bring your own instruments or use one provided.

2 BROKE GIRLS BOUTIQUE & STUDIO

BIG Larry’s Big Subs

Burge

Floats

Hot Dogs Hot Pretzel

am e r C e Ic s 100% oothies it Sm

Order Ahe Fru ad We also Carry

CALL

INS W ELC

OME

many s & Games

Comic Book

(301) 475-1860

To advertise on this page

Call 301-247-7611 or Email jen@countytimes.net

22760 Washington St. 240-210-3998 After Christmas Sale! 50% off Christmas leggings, 30% off Lularoe, 20% off Simply Southern and Route One.

FENWICK STREET USED BOOKS & MUSIC 41655A Fenwick St. 301-475-2859 Katie Spivey Brewster will be signing copies of her poetry book, “Sparks Fly Upward” on Friday, January 5th from 5-7 PM! Sparks Fly Upward, captures many of Mrs. Brewster’s life memories and experiences in an interesting variety of poetic forms such as Cinquain, Haiku, Acrostic, and limerick.

LBA

Leonardtown

Business Association

“Poetry gives expression to our soul,” says Mrs. Brewster, “while allowing us to feel the joy of being creative. Poetry gives us words to help us through dark days and offers creative fun and enjoyment because it makes our words dance, play, and sing.

NORTH END GALLERY

41652 Fenwick St. 301-475-3130 The North End Gallery presents Cold Winter Fun for the January First Friday celebration. Visit the gallery and check out the pottery and glass art. With six ceramic artists and two glass artists, North End Gallery has an impressive selection of one of a kind pottery and glass art. You will also find fine-art paintings, silk-screen prints, uniquely designed clocks, woodwork, hand-crafted jewelry, children’s books and numerous prints and note cards. While you are at the gallery, enter the Mystery Box drawing for a chance to win a piece of art. The drawing is at 8 PM but there is no need to be present to win.

GOOD EARTH

41625 Park Ave. (302) 438-1629 The Heartbeet of Winter is a blend of beet, strawberry, pineapple, carrot juice, coconut pineapple water, ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon! This smoothie will be 10% off on January 5, 2018! A refreshing blend of citrus fruit with the sweet beet is a delicious treat on a cold day!

Make Leonardtown “Your Special Place To Be” every First Friday! LEONARDTOWN FIRST FRIDAYS

@LeonardtownFF

LEONARDTOWN FIRST FRIDAYS

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Downtown Leonardtown

A New Year, A New You

Crazy for Ewe

Knit something beautiful Lessons for all levels. Get started today! www.crazyforewe.com 301-475-2744

wick Street Fesn d e Books & Musi c

Katie Spivey Brewster will be signing copies of her poetry book, “Sparks Fly Upward” Friday, January 5 5-7 PM

301-475-2859

May Swing Into Spring

June Where’s Crabby?

www.fenwickbooks.com 41655A Fenwick Street Downtown Leonardtown

July Red White & Blues August Rockin’ First Friday

n’s WWepative CCp ocal of L s & n Artisamms F F

Uppade to Handma de

Supplies

Classes

WWkshhs

Handcrafted Gifts, Fuzzy Fibers, & Fabulous Products 22696 Washington St.

September Art Walk

Audience participation

Drum Circle! with the

SoMar Drummers

7-8PM

New Location! The Arts Council Gallery Space 22660 Washington Street, 1st Floor.

Leonardtown, MD

301-475-FUZZ (3899)

October Pink Friday The LBA gratefully acknowledges the generous support of our Platinum Sponsors

Obituaries

The County Times

The County Times runs complimentary obituaries as submitted by funeral homes and readers. We run them in the order we receive them. Any submissions that come to guyleonard@countytimes.net after noon on Mondays may run in the following week’s edition.

John Michael “Mike” Jones John Michael “Mike” Jones, 66, of Califor nia, MD passed away peacefully on December 18th, 2017 at his residence. He was born in Vincennes, IN to the late William Samuel Jones and Marjorie Sarah Harrison Jones. Mike is a graduate of Iroquois High School of Louisville, KY. In 1971 he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country until his honorable discharge in 1973 later becoming a member of the VFW. He earned his Associates Degree from Fullerton College, his Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy from Spalding University, and later his Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Miami University. He was previously employed as the MWR Recreation Director in Bahrain, the MWR Director in South Korea, simultaneously held the positions of Installation MWR Director and N9 in Patuxent River, MD, and recently became the Regional N92 for the Naval District of Washington D.C.

Mike played softball for 40+ years and helped start Spalding’s athletics program during his attendance. He lived every day to the fullest, and could brighten any room with his infectious laughter, selflessness, and charisma. Mike was the epitome of strength and compassion and was never shy to offer either. He is survived by his son, Nicholas Steven Jones, Nicholas’s mother, Sheryl Jones, and his sister Pamela Thompson of Louisville, KY, as well as many relatives and friends from around the world that will remember him fondly. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Marcus Steven Jones. A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 PM, December 28th at The Chapel at Patuxent River Naval Air Station, 47123 Buse Rd, Patuxent River, MD 20670 Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A.

Thomas Kenneth Beveridge Thomas Kenneth Beveridge, 87, of Hollywood, MD, formerly of Rayland, Ohio, passed away on December 18, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 4, 1930 in East Liverpool, Ohio to the late

A Tribute to the Loved One Whose Memory Lives On Forever in Your Heart

Honor the memory of your cherished one by sharing the story of their life with friends, neighbors and associates here in the community.

Thursday, December 28, 2017

In Remembrance

Albert Beveridge and Ester Beal Beveridge. On January 23, 1951 T h o m a s married his beloved wife Gazella Horvath in Glen Robbins, Ohio. Together they celebrated 66 very happy years of marriage. He was employed as a crane operator at Wheeling-Pittsburg Steel Mill for 41 years. Thomas was a member of the Freemasons and an active member of the Rayland Presbyterian Church, where he served as an Elder and a Deacon. He enjoyed reading, working in his garden, fishing, and especially spending time with his family. Thomas is survived by his wife, Gazella Horvath Beveridge; daughter, Mary Margaret Beveridge Clifton (Wallace), of Hollywood, MD; sister, Carol Ann Burgy, of Bellaire, OH; brothers, Robert Dale Beveridge, of Salineville, OH, and John William Beveridge, of East Liverpool, OH; grandchildren, Holly Marie Clifton, of Seattle, WA, Theodore Wallace Clifton, of Mechanicsville, MD, Hope Elaine Colson, of Hollywood, MD, and Heidi Elizabeth Bajpai, of Ashburn, VA, and nine great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son, Thomas K. Beveridge Jr., and brother, Ronald Gene Beveridge. All services are private. Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.co m. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A.

Shirley A. Sherman

Remembrances In Print & Online From

The County Times

For details and to place your notice of remembrance, call 301.373.4125 for assistance.

301.373.4125 www.somd.com/countytimes

Shirley A. Sherman, 81, of Mechanicsville, MD formerly from Camp Springs, MD passed away on December

22, 2017 at her home. Born on November 23, 1936 in West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Julia Virginia Martin and George Robert Martin. Shirley was the loving wife of the late Stanley M. Sherman, whom she married on July 9, 1963, and who preceded her in death on February 16, 2007. Shirley is survived by her children; Michael T. Sherman (Donna J) of Mechanicsville, MD, Jody L. Slagle (Bud) of Inwood, WV,4 grandchildren; Joshua Sherman, Zoe Slagle, Dayle Slagle, and Melanie Sherman. Siblings; Brenda Powers, Barbara Jean Cordwell, (Bobby), and George (Butch) Martin. She graduated from University High School in 1954 and was a Secretary for Baker Engineer, retiring in 2006. Shirley loved playing cards, bowling, cooking for her family and spending time with her grandchildren. Shirley was a great mom and mother-n-law, family was very important to her. And she always knew what was important in life family and friends. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 2, 2017 from 5:00 PM-8:00 PM with prayers recited at 7:00 PM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD. Where a Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:00AM in the Funeral Home Chapel Father John Ball will be officiating. Interment will follow in Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, MD. Pallbearers will be; Michael Sherman, Joshua Sherman, Bud Slagle, Jim Carr, Jamie Tennyson, and Gary Sansburry. Donations may be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Arrangements by Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home.

Thomas Jarrott Clements T h o m as Jarrott “Jerry” Clements, 73, of Leonardtown, MD passed away at his home sur rounded by his loving

Thursday, December 28, 2017

family on December 21, 2017. Born on November 9, 1944 in California, MD he was the son of the late Evelyn Ruth Clements and Martin Louis Clements. Jerry was the loving husband of Mary Lillian Clements, whom he married on June 25, 1966 in Our Lady’s Catholic Church, Leonardtown, MD. Jerry is survived by his children; Tom Clements, (Caty) of Leonardtown, MD, Shane Clements (Vicky) of California, MD, 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. As well as, his siblings; James Louis Clements, Ruth Evelyn Johnson, Joseph Allen Clements, Alma Louise Blackwell, Patricia Geneive Abbott, Janice Kay Skafidos, and Robert Bryon Clements. He is preceded in death by his son Timmy Clements, also his brothers David K. Clements and Ronald Wayne Clements. He was a lifelong St. Mary’s County resident and a graduate of Leonardtown High School. Jerry worked for the Charles County Board of Education as an HVAC technician and mechanic for 25 years, retiring on July 1, 2008. He was a member of the Moose Lodge, Jerry enjoyed golf, camping, square dancing and loved spending time with his grandchildren. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society 405 William Court, Suite 120 Baltimore, MD 21220. Arrangements by Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home.

William A. Guy William A. “Billy” Guy, 86, a lifetime resident of Mechanicsville, MD passed away on December 20, 2017. Born on June 27, 1931 in Clements, MD, he was the son of the late Genevieve Johnson Guy and Norman Aloysius Guy, Sr. Billy is survived by his wife of 67 years, Roberta Eleanor Pilkerton Guy whom he married on October 10, 1950 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. He preceded in death by his broth-

Obituaries

The County Times

er, Norman Guy Jr. He is survived by his siblings Jackie Guy (Peggy), Phyllis Bowling, Betty Rose Wood (Jimmy), 8 children; Sandra Vallandingham (the late Roger Lee), Eddie Guy (Margie), Joanne Guy, Artie Guy, Tim Guy, Missy Finch (Steve), Bonnie Russell (John Curley), Pat Guy (Mary), 13 grandchildren Terry, Tammy, Jason, Randy, Colleen, Lindsey, Laura, Luke, Megan, Heather, Lindsey, Marie, Michael, 6 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Billy and his brother Jackie started J.C. & W.A Guy, later named Guy Excavating, in Mechanicsville MD in 1963. He was a lifetime charter member and past Captain of the Mechanicsville Volunteer Rescue Squad, a member of the Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department, and the Mechanicsville Lions Club. He served on the St. Mary’s County Planning and Zoning board for 10 years. Billy served in the Maryland National Guard from 1947 to 1963. He loved to fish and enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, dancing with the Country Music Club, traveling in his motor home, and restoring his tractors.

Donald Henry Carroll D o n a ld Henry Carroll, “Donnie”, 78, of Dameron, MD passed away on November 8, 2017 at his home. Born on November 15, 1938 in Dameron, MD, he was the son of the late Viola Augusta Ridgell Carroll, and Lloyd Thomas Carroll. Donald is survived by his wife Rose M. Carroll whom he married in St. George’s Catholic Church Valley Lee, MD on December 2, 1961. He attended St. Michaels Catholic School. He was a lifelong St. Mary’s County, MD resident. Donald was the Owner/Operator of Don’s Sunoco in Lexington Park, MD from 1965 to 2000, retiring in 2000. Donald is survived by his siblings; Peggy Vallandingham of Ridge, MD, Mary Ann Norris (Emerick) of St. Inigoes, MD, Elaine Carroll

of Warrenton, VA, Charles Carroll (Joanne) of Myrtle Beach, SC, Sandra Gerek of Park Hall, MD, Ed Carroll (Diane) of Lexington Park, MD, Tony Carroll (Marie) of Ridge, MD, sister in law Salinda Mae Carroll. He was preceded in death by his siblings; Barbara Smith, Frankie Carroll, Roger Carroll, Joan Cochran, brothers in laws; Sam Vallandingham, Ron Yukum, and Mike Gerek and Corky Cochran.

Frances Mae Clark Frances Mae Clark, 87, of Lexington Park, MD, passed away December 17, 2017. Born May 14, 1930 in Leonardtown, MD,

she was the daughter of the late Martin Woodley Newton and Elsie Mae (Hill) Newton. Frances is survived by her children, Katrina Owens (John) of Lusby, MD, Marcus Clark of Lexington Park, MD, Norman Clark of Hollywood, MD, Chris Clark of Hollywood, MD and Tony Newton of Idaho; eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and sisters, Juanita Wallace and Virginia Wilkerson both of Hollywood, MD. She was preceded in death by her husband, Norman M. Clark. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142. Condolences to the family may be made at www.rauschfuneralhomes. com Funeral arrangements by Rausch Funeral Home.

FAMILY-OWNED FUNERAL HOME SERVING SOUTHERN MARYLAND FOR OVER 115 YEARS !for Peace of Afina .

. . 'Wnen It Matters Afost

MERRY CHRISTMAS lVl.A.TTI:r--J"�LEYand HAPPY NEW YEAR

HOME, l?A . _____ FUNERAL CREMATORY

..._

AND

FAMILY-OWNED FUNERAL HOME SERVING SOUTHERN MARYLAND FOR OVER 115 YEARS For Peace of Mind ... When It Matters Most New Crematory and New Chapel Affordable Options To Meet Your Family's Needs Traditional Funeral Services• Cremation Services Pre-Planning Without Cost or Obligation Prearranged and Prefunded Guaranteed Burial Trust Family Follow-up Care and Support Community Education Resources• ANDFinancing Available OAC

CREMATORY

SELECTED Independent

-FVN�!-1.IOMES �b,l'lM&IIIUCM

41590 Fenwick Street • P.O. Box 270 • Leonardtown, MD 20650 �

·�

301-475-8500 www.111gfh.co1111it;�b��k

MAJOR SPONSOR of the BLESSING of the FLEET

Sports

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Line Troubles Lead to Seahawk’s Defeat

St. Mary’s College of Maryland men’s basketball team had troubles at the free-throw stripe Dec. 18 and fell to Husson in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The Basics Score: St. Mary’s 69, Husson 83 Records: St. Mary’s (2-8), Husson (7-1) Location: Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – Broward County Convention Center The Short Story: The St. Mary’s College of Maryland men’s basketball team wrapped up their time at the Trip Sports Cruzin’ Classic Sunday night with an 83-69 loss to the Husson University Eagles. Poor free throw shooting hindered St. Mary’s success in the non-conference matchup as the Seahawks went to the line 33 times but made less than 30% of their attempts. How It Happened St. Mary’s took control of the game early in the ﬁrst half and built a 29-14 advantage with 8:51 remaining in the half, fueling the run with four triples and eight points from sophomore forward Spencer Schultz (Clear Spring, Md./Clear Spring). Justin Thompson’s three-pointer at 8:43 sparked a 22-5 run by the Eagles

over a six-minute span and gave Husson its first lead, 36-34, since 16:58. Sophomore forward Darick Kerns (Cumberland, Md./Allegany) tied up the game with a jumper at 1:42 but back-toback three-point shots put HU on top, 42-38, at halftime. Raheem Anderson tallied seven of his game-leading 11 first-half points during the tail-end of Husson’s 22-5 run while Schultz paced the Seahawks with his eight points in the first 20 minutes. The Seahawks mounted a 9-3 push to start the second half and regain the lead, 47-45, temporarily at 17:00 on a layup by senior wing Chris Craft, Jr. (Waldorf, Md./Westlake). That would be St. Mary’s last lead of the game despite closing the gap to one twice before the Eagles used an 18-9 run to boast a 10-point margin with 7:54 remaining in the game. The Seahawks were 3-of-19 from the charity stripe in the second half alone while Husson made the most of its 18 trips to the line, knocking down 14 free throws.

Celebrate Good Times…Together

New Year’s: ‘Tis the season for dropping balls, big parties and spirited (but responsible, of course) consumption. Wild celebrations asides, New Year’s is, at its essence, a spectacular pivot point between what was and what will be. It is a simultaneous divorce and marriage, death and birth, end and beginning. At no other time of year does past and future so equally share space in the mind. By Nairem Moran · nmoran@smcm. The expiration of one calendar and start edu for SMCM. of another locks one eye on the rear-view mirror and the other through the windshield. This co-mingled awareness of yesterday and tomorrow invites, essentially out of obligation, an assessment of individual progress, world events and, with the right company and juuust the right amount of a magical elixir, the general course of our existence. 42126 VALLEY DR. MECHANICSVILLE, MD 20659 It’s a spooky exercise. Who are we? Where have we been? Where are we going? On-track? Off-track? Are we perfectly conscious or thoroughly confused? Who knows where the moment’s grandeur - and a few glasses of your chosen poison - will scatter one’s thoughts? The verdict on the past year is inevitably harsh: too much weight gained, too many goals left unaccomplished, increased vice decreased screen time and social media usage, stress-reducing N W O gameplans abandoned with hardly a D ﬁght and calls to friends left unmade. NO $$ ! In a nut, a greater version of ourselves AREA never emerged and all resolutions were ablaze by Valentine’s Day. But like once-suffering Cubs fans said, “Wait ‘till next year”. Well, it’s 3 Bedroom, 2 Full Baths, **Full Finished Basement!**HUGE Fenced here, and with it arrives another chance to be everything we swore we’d be last Lot, ALL NEW EVERYTHING! New Kitchen Cabinets, New Stainless Steel Appliances, New Lighting, New Wood Floors, New Carpeting, L year. Cheers to that, eh? New ROOF, New SIDING, New WINDOWS, New HVAC System, Ceramic scroll through 2017’s “Views from I theA Bleachers” Baths. New CUSTOM DECK!! Extremely Picturesque revealed the expected combination of local and national sports Setting! ..SPECTACULAR! I HAVE SOLD Stopics. The excruciating playoff failings MANY HOMES of the Nationals and Capitals and Kirk T Cousins’s frustrating contract situation IN YOUR AREA several melancholy discusBroker/Realtor Purple RECENTLY AND I prompted sions of “The Darkness”, D.C.’s sports IN THE LAST Post Real Estate curse. It even caused one piece to be N 20 Years! “written” by my mythical pal Duke Radwww.SteveSellsMd.com the gloom of D.C. sports had renGbourn; dered me unable to write. P The inspiring play of Mississippi State

LIST PR $269 ICE ,900

OWN FOR LESS THAN $1550 MONTH!!

Steve Atkocius 301-399-3089

R I

G Morgan William and Oklahoma City Thunder G Russell Westbrook and the feel good season of Nationals 1B Ryan Zimmerman periodically brightened the mood. Diamond Stone’s accelerated entry into the big bad adult world of the NBA offered a cautionary tale. LeBron James – the man as much as the basketball player – was passionately defended and LaVar Ball - jerk-of-the-year candidate - was taken to task. The dominate theme, though, and the one that generated the most responses from the community, developed from pieces that addressed Colin Kaepernick, anthem demonstrations and, more generally, the inescapable intersection of sports and politics in 2017. It was a “sign of the times” of sorts. Whatever you think of President Donald Trump, it would be difficult to argue against adorning him with the wellearned nickname “The Great Agitator”. Upon taking office, he dumped society and sports into a paint can, locked it in one of those industrial paint shaking machines and hasn’t turned it off since – for good (some?) or ill (mostly). But fear not, this piece isn’t going there. What I will offer is this: Over the next few weeks there will be fans and players of college and professional football teams celebrating bowl wins, playoff games and championships. In those victory celebrations you’ll witness unqualified unity. Nothing will matter but common love of team or teammate. Race, religion, gender, sexual orientation and political persuasions will be irrelevant. Absorb the visual and carry it close in 2018. Politicians will deface democracy and its natural discord by preaching that the other side is absolutely wrong, that different opinions should be ignored, that all news is fake and that if the opposition wins the country will collapse and be consumed by the fires of Hell… all to the wild cheers of Vladimir Putin and Kim Yong-un. Don’t take the bait; it’s the rhetoric of those drunk on ego or compromised by special interests. Instead, remember those celebrating teams and fans as a metaphor for our shared principles and common humanity – forces far more consequential than our differences. Now there’s a resolution to celebrate while we’re watching a ball descend… together. Send comments to RonaldGuyJr@ gmail.com

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The County Times

Just Released Just released : “America’s First, A History of America’s Oldest Continuously Operating Sheriff’s Office” by Sheriff Timothy Cameron, Grace Mary Brady, Jeffrey McLane, Carol Moody, Linda Reno (yours truly), and Mary Ann Thompson. This is the story of every St. Mary’s County Sheriff from 1637 to the present. Their names, biographical information, and some of the crimes committed while they were in office is provided. There are also chapters on jails, transportation and weapons to mention but a few. For example: James Baldridge, 1637-1639 James Baldridge was born about 1603 in County Yorkshire, England. Some claim that he and his brother, Thomas arrived on the “Ark or Dove” in 1634 but that is not proven. Exactly when or how they arrived, we are not certain, but both were here by 1637 and they did not arrive as servants. Had that been the case, neither would have had the funds or social status necessary to enable them to serve as sheriff. Baldridge, a Protestant, was also literate as he signed his name. He served both as sheriff and coroner. James Baldridge later moved to Westmoreland County, Virginia where he died about 1659. As coroner, Baldridge was called upon in March 1638 to convene inquests into the deaths of Thomas Morris and Thomas Cullamore both “found drowned by misadventure.” (Archives of MD, Vol. 4, p. 24). In July 1638 he was ordered to keep in his custody one William Lewis who was jailed as the result of a religious dispute. Governor Calvert had issued a proclamation prohibiting “all unseasonable disputations on points of religion, tending to the disturbance of the public peace and quiet of the colony, and to the opening of faction in religion.” Two Protestants, Francis Gray and Robert Sedgrave, lived in the same house with William Lewis, “a zealous Papist.” One day Lewis found Sedgrave reading aloud from a Protestant book of sermons containing “offensive, antiCatholic statements.” Lewis strongly protested, making a number of anti-Protestant comments and then forbade Gray and Sedgrave from further reading the book. The matter ended up in court. There were no witnesses against the Protestants and consequently they avoided punishment, however, they teamed up as witnesses against Lewis who was fined 500 pounds of tobacco and “to remain in the sheriff’s custody.” (Archives of MD, Vol. 4, p. 35). The fall of that same year the Beacon newspaper reported that three men escaped from the county jail and commented, “How long such an imposition as our county jail will be permitted to affront us remains to be seen.” Prisoners “remain only long enough to get fat and well rested, then punch a hole large enough to get through and leave” (Beacon, September 2, 1869). The book is full of beautiful drawings, pictures, etc. The cost is $35 (paperback). Copies may be bought at the Sheriff’s office, Land Use and Growth Management, Cecil’s Old Mill, Fenwick’s Used Books, Keepin’ It Local, Zimmerman’s, and Piney Point Lighthouse.

Contributing Writers

“A Timeless Love” I hope everyone had a lovely, warm Christmas. We are lucky we didn’t all get blown away from the wind that day. The large red ribbons bedecking our windows startled me every time they beat against the windows and siding. The grandchildren all had red noses and cheeks when they walked in, but lots of hugs and kisses seemed to warm everybody up. The traditional French toast breakfast that my husband and I prepared helped a bit too. I felt I was really ahead on Christmas this year. Normally, when I had my custom frame shop and gallery, I would be working until 8 or 10 each night – which I loved, but it meant that I barely had time to shop and sometimes didn’t shop until Christmas Eve. This is when all the payments came in. The pick-up date would be Christmas Eve by 2 for most all the customers. This was a holdover from when I worked for Two Rivers Gallery and Framing in Lexington Park for 18 years. The owners, Beth and Craig always did that for the last two or three weeks of December orders coming in. It was chaotic, but I always had my list of presents to get. I wasn’t just going in to stores without a plan. This year, my husband and I started early and bought gifts as we saw them. We naturally had last minute gifts that we thought of the last few days, but all in all everything was smooth and planned for ahead of time. All my decorations were up by Christmas Eve, with a few adjustments on Christmas morning. I finally put the wreath out on the front porch railing, mainly because I couldn’t remember where I put the wreath hangar for the door. But it was fine. I never did wrap the candy-cane striped ribbon around the railings, so I will do that next year I suppose. But inside, every table and open space was adorned with Christmas. I especially loved my Christmas village this year with the new pieces I found at Keepin’ It Local in Morganza, at yard sales, and at The Hughesville Village Market. So……everything was going smoothly until Christmas Eve when I pulled out the box with all the Christmas stockings in it. Last year, I had the bright idea from one of those tips you see on Facebook to put one of those bags that keep basements dry into the box with the stock-

ings and ribbons. I had noticed a musty smell from the boxes being stored under the steps. When I opened the box the stockings and outdoor ribbons smelled great. I was so happy. Then I started pulling them out. All the stockings were heavy and soggy with moisture. There was also this awful oily residue all over them. The ribbons were spared because they were sitting on top of the stockings. The very next thing I noticed was that my hands were burning badly from this oily residue. I washed my hands of course, but didn’t know what to do with the stockings. I put them in the dryer while we went to the service at church. When we got back home, I pulled them out and saw that the stockings were covered in a crusty white substance and and were still oily and soggy-and the dryer wasn’t sounding real good when I tried to start it again. Time was flying by, so we hung the stockings, but I put all the stocking stuffers in the plastic bags you get from the grocery store. A little while later we noticed that the stockings were leaving pools of oily slime on the carpet, and big spots where we initially took them out at the top of the stairs. What fun! Christmas morning arrived! As all our kids and 8 out of 9 grandkids arrived and walked up the steps, I warned them all. “DO NOT touch the stockings!” I hope the grandkids are not traumatized for life now. But other than having to soon throw out all the stockings of our children’s and grandchildren’s childhoods, and forgetting about three presents I hid over the summer until right before everyone arrived, it was beautiful, and one of the best Christmases ever. Hope yours was too. To each new day’s adventure, Shelby Please send your comments or ideas to: shelbys.wanderings@yahoo.com or find me on facebook.

Calendars

Community

The County Times

Calendar

Thursday, December 28

32nd Annual Christmas Doll & Train Exhibit 38370 Point Breeze Road Colton’s Point, MD 20626 12:00PM-4:00 PM The St. Clement’s Island Museum presents a holiday exhibit themed “Christmas in Maryland.” Enjoy antique dolls, toys and working miniature trains. Featuring exhibits by the Black-eyed Susan Doll Club and the Hammett Family. Shop Local this Holiday Season! Support the St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums. Admission: $3 adults, $2.00 senior citizens (62 and older) and military personnel with ID, $1.50 students 6 to 18, FREE for children 5 and under. Piney Point Lighthouse Museum Holiday Exhibit 44720 Lighthouse Rd, Piney Point, Maryland 20674 12:00PM-4:00 PM The Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum & Historic Park presents a holiday exhibit you won’t want to miss during the holiday season. We present our “Holidays in Uniform” exhibit. Shop Local this Holiday Season! Support the St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums.”Spam and Bubba will be on hand at the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, Saturday-December 9th, with ‘Holidays in Uniform’ artifacts from the back room. Vince Turner explains the importance of Christmas in the service through his collection of photos and articles. See you then… “ Admission is $7 adults, $3.50 for senior citizens (62 and older), military personnel with ID, and students 6 to 18, FREE from children 5 and under. Admission includes the holiday exhibit, and tour of the museum, Potomac River Maritime Exhibit and Piney Point Lighthouse tower!

Friday, December 29 32nd Annual Christmas Doll & Train Exhibit 38370 Point Breeze Road Colton’s Point, MD 20626 12:00PM-4:00 PM The St. Clement’s Island Museum presents a holiday exhibit themed “Christmas in Maryland.” Enjoy antique dolls, toys and working miniature trains. Featuring exhibits by the Black-eyed Susan Doll Club and the Hammett Family. Shop Local this Holiday Season! Support the St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums. Admission: $3 adults, $2.00 senior citizens (62 and older) and military personnel with ID, $1.50 students 6 to 18, FREE for children 5 and under. Piney Point Lighthouse Museum Holiday Exhibit 44720 Lighthouse Rd, Piney Point, Maryland 20674 12:00PM-4:00 PM The Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum & Historic Park presents a holiday exhibit

Thursday, December 28, 2017

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

you won’t want to miss during the holiday season. We present our “Holidays in Uniform” exhibit. Shop Local this Holiday Season! Support the St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums.”Spam and Bubba will be on hand at the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, Saturday-December 9th, with ‘Holidays in Uniform’ artifacts from the back room. Vince Turner explains the importance of Christmas in the service through his collection of photos and articles. See you then… “ Admission is $7 adults, $3.50 for senior citizens (62 and older), military personnel with ID, and students 6 to 18, FREE from children 5 and under. Admission includes the holiday exhibit, and tour of the museum, Potomac River Maritime Exhibit and Piney Point Lighthouse tower!

Saturday, December 30 Bingo At Mother Catherine Academy 38833 Chaptico Road Mechanicsville Md 20650 6:30 PM-10:30 PM SATURDAY NIGHT BINGO! Doors open at 5 pm Early Birds start at 6:30 pm Regular Games start at 7:00 pm. $10 admission (includes one regular book). Progressive Money Ball & Door prizes. Piney Point Lighthouse Museum Holiday Exhibit 44720 Lighthouse Rd, Piney Point, Maryland 20674 12:00PM-4:00 PM The Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum & Historic Park presents a holiday exhibit you won’t want to miss during the holiday season. We present our “Holidays in Uniform” exhibit. Shop Local this Holiday Season! Support the St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums.”Spam and Bubba will be on hand at the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, Saturday-December 9th, with ‘Holidays in Uniform’ artifacts from the back room. Vince Turner explains the importance of Christmas in the service through his collection of photos and articles. See you then… “ Admission is $7 adults, $3.50 for senior citizens (62 and older), military personnel with ID, and students 6 to 18, FREE from children 5 and under. Admission includes the holiday exhibit, and tour of the museum, Potomac River Maritime Exhibit and Piney Point Lighthouse tower!

Sunday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Around the World Beacon of Hope Recovery Community Center 21770 FDR Blvd. Lexington Park MD 20653 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Join us for New Year’s Eve Around the World! Food and games with an international flavor at a free, family & recovery friendly party. Music and dancing with DJ Dream! Beacon of Hope Recovery Community Center is a free, open to the public recovery community center with peer support activities and support for those

seeking recovery and their families. We are located in Millison Plaza, between the movie theater and Family Dollar, adjacent to the Well Pet Clinic. NEW YEAR’S EVE BINGO American Legion Post 82, 6330 Crain Hwy N., LaPlata, MD 20646 7:30 PM-11:00PM Party favors, hors d’oeuvres, iced tea, coffee, lemonade; free dauber to first 100 players. $50 gets you one single pack admission which includes all games (additional packs available for $20). Guaranteed jackpot payout of $1,000! Doors open at 7:30pm; games begin at 9:00pm. Pull tabs available for purchase; door prizes. New years eve bingo mother catherine academy 38833 Chaptico road mechanicsville md 20650 6:30 Pm-10:30 pm Super bingo taking reservations $20.00 Holds your seat! Mother catherine academy new years eve bingo! Doors open 4:30 earlybirds start 6:30 Prizes to be given away television keurig tablet! 25 Free bingo passes to be given away to play 1 free night with us $200.00 Regular games $300.00 Specials $2018.00 Guaranteed sunrise or sunset! Admission $20.00 Includes first book of regular games. $5.00 Dollars for each extra regular book special packs $7.00. Early-birds 2.00 Each or 3 for $5.00 Either /or $1.00. Bonanzas $1.00 Each or 3 for $2.00 Quickie $1.00. Extra coveralls $2.00. Guaranteed $2018.00 Sunrise or sunset sold on the floor only $2.00

Monday, January 1 Mechanicsville Moose Lodge Hold em Tournament n Poker Night Mechanicsville Moose Lodge, Mechanicsville Md 20659 4:00 PM-11:00 PM Buy in $100.00 30 Minute blinds $12,000 in chips Pay $5.00 Xtra for $3,000 in chips This is a bounty tournament $10.00 Bounty chip doors open @ 2pm tournament will Dinner included with buy in,dinner served@ 3pm (roast beef,barbecue,cole slaw, potato salad, dessert,coffee or tea. Sign-up by call or text no later Than 3;30 to obtain a tournament seat 1, $2 no limit cash games will begin as players and dealers are available, buy in $50.00 To $300.00. Dealer’s choice holdem or omaha Piney Point Lighthouse Museum Holiday Exhibit 44720 Lighthouse Rd, Piney Point, Maryland 20674 12:00PM-4:00 PM The Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum & Historic Park presents a holiday exhibit you won’t want to miss during the holiday season. We present our “Holidays in Uniform” exhibit. Shop Local this Holiday Season! Support the St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums.”Spam and Bubba will be on hand at the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, Saturday-December

9th, with ‘Holidays in Uniform’ artifacts from the back room. Vince Turner explains the importance of Christmas in the service through his collection of photos and articles. See you then… “ Admission is $7 adults, $3.50 for senior citizens (62 and older), military personnel with ID, and students 6 to 18, FREE from children 5 and under. Admission includes the holiday exhibit, and tour of the museum, Potomac River Maritime Exhibit and Piney Point Lighthouse tower!

Tuesday, January 2 VFW Auxiliary General Meeting 7:00 p.m. VFW at 2310 Old Washington Rd(Rt 925) Waldorf MD 7:00 PM-8:00 PM VFW 8810 Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)8810 General Membership Meeting Held 1st Tuesday every month At VFW Post 8810—Home of Veteran’s of Foreign Wars, American Legion Post 293, American Veterans (AMVETS) Post 13, VFW 8810 Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 293, Son’s of the American Legion (SAL) 293, and the American Legion Riders 293.

Wednesday, January 3 Military Appreciation Night at SMCM Michael P. O’Brien Athletics and Recreation Center, 19050 Hill Commons Drive, St. Mary’s City, MD 6:00 PM-10:00 PM St. Mary’s College of Maryland presents Military Appreciation Night as the St. Mary’s College Men’s and Women’s Seahawks take on the Southern Virginia University Knights. Get ready for a basketball doubleheader starting at 6 p.m. when the women’s teams take to the court, followed by the men’s at 8 p.m. All active and retired military and/or their families with identification will have free access to the games. Military personnel-only raffle events will also take place. Both games occur in the Michael P. O’Brien Athletics and Recreation Center, 19050 Hill Commons Drive on the St. Mary’s College campus. For additional tickets purchased at the door, prices are $5 for adults, and $3 for senior citizens and non-St. Mary’s College students.

Thursday, January 4 American Legion Post 221 Meeting 21690 Colton Point Rd; Avenue, MD 8:00 PM-9:00 PM American Legion Post 221 invites all active duty personnel and veterans to join us for our monthly meeting on the first Thursday of each month at 8:00pm. Visit our website at www.alpost221.webs.com/ Call (301) 884-4071 for more information. Tell them you saw the announcement on the SoMd Internet Calendar

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The County Times

Licensed and Registered Pharmacy Techincian for our Charlotte Hall location. The schedule will be the 3:00 to 9:00 shift Monday through Friday plus every other weekend, Saturday 9:00 until 6:00 and Sunday 10:00 until 4:00. Competitive pay and beneďŹ ts. Great customer service skills are required. PO BOX 98 Hollywood, MD

Contact Luann at 301.373.5848

Interested candidates should contact Luann at 301-373-5848

Calendars

The County Times

St. Mary’s Department of Aging Programs and Activities

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Lofﬂer Senior Activity Center 301-475-4200, ext. 1658 Garvey Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4200, ext. 1050 Northern Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4002, ext. 3101

Visit www.stmarysmd.com/aging for the most up-to date information

Brought to you by the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County: James R. Guy, President; Michael L. Hewitt; Tom Jarboe; Todd B. Morgan; John E. O’Connor; and the Department of Aging & Human Services

pass purchase of $30 for 10 sessions. For more information about the program, please call 301-475-4200, ext. * 3103.

MedStar Medicare Choice Leaving St. Mary’s County

MedStar Choice, a Medicare Advantage plan, first began offering coverage to St. Mary’s County Medicare beneficiaries in 2015 as an alternate to receiving benefits from the traditional Medicare program. Beginning Jan. 1, 2018, these policies will no longer be offered in St. Mary’s County. Those currently enrolled will automatically be enrolled back into the traditional Medicare Part A & B program. It is unknown if another company will offer a Medicare Advantage plan in our area. This change does not affect anyone enrolled in the MedStar Family Choice Medicaid program. Individuals affected by this loss of coverage should enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription plan and possibly a Medicare Medigap policy. Anyone needing assistance reviewing their options may schedule an appointment with the St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services by calling 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.

WARM Seeking Volunteer Drivers

With colder weather settling in, The St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services seeks volunteer drivers for Wrapping Arms ‘Round Many (WARM), a winter emergency shelter program for homeless individuals in St. Mary’s County. Drivers must be 18 or older and have a valid driver’s license. Volunteers will be given access to a county-owned van. Volunteer slots are open 7 days per week while WARM is operational. Evening drivers pick up WARM guests at the Three Oaks Center at 5:30 p.m. for transportation to the selected church for the evening. Morning drivers arrive at the church by 7 a.m. the next morning to transport guests back to Three Oaks. To volunteer, call Ursula Harris at 301-475-4200, ext. *1658, or via email to Ursula.Harris@stmarysmd.com. Your assistance with helping others is greatly appreciated during the cold winter months.

Last Chair Yoga Class of the Year

The Northern Senior Activity Center will offer a free trial chair yoga class on Friday, Dec. 29, for those who would like to try it. Friday’s class uses the chair for modified yoga with seated and standing poses and a relaxation session on the floor. To continue, classes are available with a fitness

A Matter of Balance

The Garvey Senior Activity Center will offer the Matter of Balance workshop on Tuesdays from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. starting Jan. 9 and continuing through Feb. 27. A Matter of Balance is a nationally recognized, award winning, time tested program for people over 60. It is designed to help manage falls and increase activity levels. In this class, participants will learn to view falls and fear of falls as controllable, set realistic goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce falls at home and exercise to increase strength and balance. Classes are two hours in length and are held once a week for eight weeks. They are led by two trained coaches in the Matter of Balance program. Class format is mostly lecture/discussion with approximately 30 minutes of exercise each session. All materials are provided at no charge. To sign up for the course, call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050. Space is limited so sign up early.

Kidney Care Class

The Fresenius Kidney Care group will offer a free Kidney Care class at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Wednesday, Jan. 10, at 1:30 p.m. Symptoms and stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) will be discussed along with treatment options, eating well with CKD, coping with CKD and building your support network. The ﬁnancial impact and what assistance is available to you will also be discussed. This class is the best way to learn that you’re not alone and to have many of your questions answered. Class size is limited so sign up early! To reserve your space, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.

Educational Video

There will be a screening of the documentary Surviving Progress on Wed, Jan. 10 at 10 a.m. at the Loffler Senior Activity Center. This film, executive produced by Martin Scorsese, is a provocative documentary that explores the concept of progress in the modern world, guiding through the major ‘progress traps’ facing civilization in the arenas of technology, economics, consumption and the environment. Call 301-475-4200, ext. *1658 to register to view the film,

have one. This is not a device-speciﬁc class. We will cover the basics of using Windows, Android, Apple, and Kindle devices to access library content. Adult computer classes are limited to ages 16 and up. Registration required on www. stmalib.org.

Minecraft Challenge

Library Holiday Closings

All three branches of the St. Mary’s County Library will be Closed on Sunday, December 31 and Monday, January 1 in observance of New Year’s Day. All branches will be open regular business hours on Tuesday, January 2.

I Didn’t Know the Library Had That!

Charlotte Hall Library will hold ‘I Didn’t Know the Library Had That!’ on Friday, January 5 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Explore digital content available with your library card from Overdrive, Hoopla, and RBdigital. Learn how to access eBooks, digital audiobooks, magazines, and streaming movies and music for free. Please bring your device if you

Charlotte Hall Library will hold Minecraft Challenge on Saturday, January 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Leonardtown Library will hold Minecraft Challenge on Thursday, January 11 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Ages 8-11. Registration opens 2 weeks before the program. Can you think on your feet, team up, use creativity, and complete the challenge? Come play Minecraft with us and ﬁnd out! Must be able to use a mouse and keyboard commands, and be familiar with how to play Minecraft (we will not use the tutorial).

Video Game Club

Leonardtown Library will hold Video Game Club on Monday, January 8 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Looking for a place to talk about and play video games with

or stop by the reception desk to sign up. (Seating is limited to 16.) 86 minutes. Free.

Healthwatch Presentation

The Lofﬂer Senior Activity Center will offer Tests Needed for Mature Adults, a free presentation by Linda Weintraub, on Thursday, Jan. 11 at 10 a.m. This topic will cover some of the medical screenings and tests people over 50, 60 or 70 should get and how often they should get them as well as what kind of problems can be avoided or lessened by regular screenings and tests. To sign up, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1658, or stop by the reception desk.

Swing Dance Lessons

Fun, fitness and style, all in one place! Swing Dance Lessons will be offered at the Loffler Senior Activity Center on Thursdays Jan.11 - Feb 8 from 1 - 2:30 p.m. (5 sessions). These classes will be taught by Henry Brown. The cost will be $50pp payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Partners are recommended, though not required. Register by Jan. 8 by calling 301-475-4200, ext. *1658, or stop by the reception desk.

How to Cook Healthy for One

The Garvey Senior Activity Center will host a presentation on “Healthy Cooking for One” by Donna Taggert, RD/ LD/CDE. Donna is a registered dietician licensed in the state of Maryland and is also a Certiﬁed Diabetes Educator. Solo folks face unique challenges for eating healthy, beyond a lack of cooking skills. It’s less fun to cook and eat alone and very little food comes in packs of one. Come join Donna on Tuesday, Jan. 30, at 1 p.m. as she helps us navigate these concerns. Class size is limited so sign up early! To reserve your space call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.

Line Dancing

The weekly line dancing program at the Northern Senior Activity Center takes place every Wednesday at 1 p.m. Come join in with a group of line dancers for over an hour of fun, movement and exercise to musical classics and current favorites. This class is ideal for everyone, whether you are a seasoned dancer or new to line dancing. For more information call 301-475-4200, ext. *3103.

friends? Each session of the Video Game Club will feature one newer and one retro system, so what will be nostalgic for some will be completely new to others. Take part in tournaments to win bragging rights, and feel free to bring whatever gaming handhelds you'll like. Pokémon cards are also welcome, of course! All ages. No registration required.

Completing the FAFSA Form

Leonardtown Library will hold ‘Completing the FAFSA Form’ on Wednesday, January 10. Two sessions will be held, one at 5 p.m. and one at 6 p.m. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form is the first step toward getting federal aid for college, career school, or graduate school. Completing and submitting the form is free and quick, and gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to help pay for college or career school. If you don't fill out the form you could be missing out on a lot of financial aid. A representative from College of Southern Maryland will be on hand for two one hour sessions to help you with the completion of your FAFSA form. Registration required on www.stmalib.

org.

Opioid Learning Series: Kickoff with Screening of ‘Chasing the Dragon’

Lexington Park Library, in partnership with the St. Mary’s County Health Department, will hold the ﬁrst of a six-part Opioid Learning Series: Kickoff with a screening of Chasing the Dragon on Thursday, January 11 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. In an effort to combat the growing epidemic of prescription drug and heroin abuse, the FBI and DEA have released "Chasing the Dragon: The Life of an Opiate Addict," a documentary that explores the dangers of addiction. This session will feature a screening of this powerful documentary followed by a guided discussion on the opioid epidemic.

Craftstravaganza 2.0

Charlotte Hall Library will hold Craftstravaganza 2.0 for all ages on Saturday, January 13 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Make and take fun creations, and use the library's button making machine! All supplies provided by the library. Free, all ages, no registration required.

Entertainment

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Start New Year with a Plunge

n O g n i Go In Entertainment

Friday, Dec 29

Monday, Jan 1

Karaoke Anglers Seafood Bar & Grill, Solomons 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM www.anglers-seafood.com The Vaits The Ruddy Duck, Solomons 7:30 PM http://www.ruddyduckbrewery.com Entertainment The Brass Rail Sports Bar, Great Mills 8:00 PM - 12:00 AM DJ RAY in the House Anthony’s Bar & Grill, Dunkirk 9:00 PM www.anthonysdunkirk.com Polar Bear Plunge: The COOLEST event of the year! Plungers take a quick dip, splash or swim in the frigid Chesapeake Bay in North Beach. Some feel the plunge is a way to cleanse their body and to welcome in the new year; others may have just lost a bet! Plungers enjoy hot cocoa and roast marshmallows around a warm bonﬁre. This event is FREE, but you may choose to pay to participate. Paying participants receive a certiﬁcate and t-shirt. The net proceeds of the event go to a charity that is chosen by the Town of North Beach. This event draws hundreds of brave participants and spectators. Photo Courtesy of North Beach.

Sunday, Dec 31

BRA BLING

Tuesday, Jan 2 Ben Connelly Anglers Seafood Bar & Grill, Solomons 6:00 - 9:00 PM www.anglers-seafood.com

Wednesday, Jan 3 Wild Card Trivia Anglers Seafood Bar & Grill, Solomons 7:00 - 9:00 PM www.anglers-seafood.com

Thursday, Jan 4 Billy Yeager The Ruddy Duck, Solomons 7:30 PM http://www.ruddyduckbrewery.com

Sumner Acoustic

Enjoy A Fun New Year's Eve Out On The Town

New Year's Eve is traditionally a night to go out on the town to celebrate with family and friends. Such celebrations tend to be rowdy, as millions of people across the globe say so long to one year while welcoming in the next. Because New Year's Eve is such a popular night to paint the town red, prospective revelers may want to begin planning their celebrations early to ensure they have the safest and most enjoyable night possible. · Book dinner reservations early. According to the National Restaurant Association, New Year's Eve is one of the ﬁve most popular nights of the year to dine out. Restaurants can book up quickly and early for New Year's Eve, so book reservations as early as possible. Try to get as accurate a potential headcount as possible before booking a reservation, erring on the side of an extra person or two if necessary. Once a reservation has been made, call the restaurant if the party size changes. If choosing Publisher Associate Publisher General Manager Al Dailey Advertising Jen Stotler

a favorite restaurant, keep in mind that the typical menu might not be available, as many establishments offer limited prix ﬁxe offerings on nights as busy as New Year's Eve. · Choose a celebration spot well in advance as well. Restaurants book up quickly on New Year's Eve, and so do bars hosting festivities. Some establishments sell limited numbers of wristbands to celebrants, and once those wristbands are sold out, they may not allow additional celebrants to enter the premises. Discuss potential postdinner spots with all the members of your party, ideally deciding on a spot well ahead of New Year's Eve. · Utilize mass transportation. Because New Year's Eve is such a popular night to go out, roads can become crowded in and around city centers or downtown areas. If possible, use mass transportation when going out on New Year's Eve. Doing so can help revelers avoid trafﬁc jams

Thomas McKay

The St. Mary’s County Times is a weekly newspaper providing news and information for

Eric McKay

the residents of St. Mary’s County. The St. Mary’s County Times will be available on newsstands every Thursday. The paper is published by Southern Maryland Publishing Company,

aldailey@countytimes.net

dickmyers@countytimes.net

Graphic Designer Jeni Coster

jenicoster@countytimes.net

Interns Zach Hill

which is responsible for the form, content, and policies of the newspaper. The St. Mary’s County Times does not espouse any political belief or endorse any product or service in its

jen@countytimes.net

Editor Dick Myers

Staff Writer Guy Leonard

and keep the focus on fun. · Choose a designated driver or utilize a taxi or ridesharing service. In areas where mass transportation is unavailable or unreliable, celebrants should choose a designated driver or drivers from their group, or arrange for rides home via a taxi or ridesharing service. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety notes that, between 2010 and 2014, there were an average of 118.2 crash deaths on January 1. Many of those were likely New Year's Eve revelers on their way home after midnight. Designated drivers, cabbies or ridesharing services prevent potentially impaired celebrants from getting behind the wheel. New Year's Eve is one of the most popular nights of the year to go out. Celebrants who plan early can ensure a fun, safe and memorable night.

guyleonard@countytimes.net zach@countytimes.net

Photographers Frank Marquart, Mike Batson Contributing Writers Laura Joyce, Ron Guy, Linda Reno , Shelbey Opperman, Doug Watson

news coverage. To be considered for publication, articles and letters to the editor submitted must include the writer’s full name, address and daytime phone number. Submissions must be delivered by 4 p.m. on the Monday prior to our Thursday publication to ensure placement for that week. After that deadline, the St. Mary’s County Times will make every attempt possible to publish late content, but cannot guarantee so. Letters may be condensed/edited for clarity, although care is taken to preserve the core of the writer’s argument. Copyright in material submitted to the newspaper and accepted for publication remains with the author, but the St. Mary’s County Times and its licensees may freely reproduce it in print, electronic or other forms. We are unable to acknowledge receipt of letters. The St. Mary’s County Times cannot guarantee that every letter or photo(s) submitted will be published, due to time or space constraints.

County Times St. Mary’s

P. O. Box 250 • Hollywood, MD 20636

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

BusinessDIRECTORY -50% Sashvopepin3g0at% our location by

My in-home studio & mobile practice, Helping people recover from their painTake and out almost all of the listed items injuries, by assessing and treating the source, changing You can leave the your life - one session Ornamental at a time. Cabbage Changing YOUR life & Kale

Leland Cyprus One session at a time! Red Tip Phone: 240-925-6283 Then in bold needctbmllc@gmail.com to add Email:

Cream of the Crop Nursery Wholesale to the Public

Web: http://www.ctbmllc.massagetherapy.com/

Fall Blowout Sale Lowest Prices of the Season is 15% off a session - $20 gas charge for mobile studio Gwynne Buttrill Military DiscountExcellent Selection of Perenials, Trees & accepting Health Savings and Flexible Spending Account cards. (Owner, LMT) Now Receipt given at checkout, submit to Card company for reimbursement. Shrubs While They Last change his hours 46924 Shangri-La DriveAlso â&#x20AC;˘ Lexington Park, MDto Mon - Sat 8am to 5pm 301-863-9497 Sunday 9am to 4pm www.coletravel.biz

Let us plan your next vacation!

Red Tips $12 3 gallon

Leyland Cypress 3 gallon for $10

Ornamental Cabbage & Kale $2.50

Native Plants, Shrubs, Trees & Perennials Available!

Fall Blowout Sale Lowest Prices of the Season

Excellent Selection of Perenials, Trees & Shrubs While They Last

Most Plants Grown On-site! Open 7 Days a Week Mon.-Sat. 8am-5pm | Sun. 9am- 4pm

Adjacent to the Charlotte Hall Farmers Market

Contact Jim for more info at 301-542-4430

SHOP LOCAL!

CROSS, WOOD & WYNKOOP AND ASSOCIATES, INC. Serving The Community Since 1994

Group Health Insurance - Individual Market Health Insurance, Dental - Vision- AFLAC Life Insurance - Short & Long Term Disability, Payroll Services

Julie E. Wynkoop

John F. Wood, Jr.

Katie L. St. Clair

President Vice President Customer Service Mgr. 301.884.5900 - 301.934.4680 - Fax 301.884.0398- info@crossandwood.com

301-884-5904 Fax 301-884-2884

To place an ad on this page contact The County Times 301-373-4125

The County Times

Thursday, December 28, 2017

DAVE’S ENGINE SERVICE Now Stored Inside

PINE HILL

“Where Service Comes First”

TECHNOLOGY PARK

Sales & Service

Farm Equipment • Machine Shop Home & Industrial Engines • Welding

Truck Load Sale

$271.35 Per Ton • 40 Pound Bag $6.65

Do you need lower office overhead costs?

Last Seasons Prices Continue

27898 Point Lookout Road • Loveville, Md • 20656

• Signs • Banners • Wall Wraps • Logo Design • Vehicle Wraps • Decals/ Stickers • Custom Clothing • Trade Show Design

PINE HILL TECHNOLOGY PARK Flexible lease terms to work with your contract schedule Full service terms including electric and janitorial expenses Only 3 miles from Gate 2 Only .03 miles from Gate 3 Lovely, quiet campus setting

1200 to 6,000 sq ft available including lab/conference space

Mention This Card And Recieve 10% Off Your Order! Limit 1 Per Customer

Barbara Svenson (301) 502 -7876

3660barbara@gmail.com

48015 Pine Hill Run Road, Lexington Park. MD 20653

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

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

One name.One vision. Dr. Christopher Morrow CalvertHealth Urgent Care

CalvertHealth

Network of Care CalvertHealth Medical Center CalvertHealth Sheldon E. Goldberg Center for Breast Care CalvertHealth Center for Family Birth Care CalvertHealth Center for Neuroscience CalvertHealth Outpatient Rehabilitation CalvertHealth Urgent Care CalvertHealth Primary Care

CalvertHealth Gastroenterology CalvertHealth General Surgery CalvertHealth Hematology & Oncology CalvertHealth Obstetrics & Gynecology CalvertHealth Pain & Physical Medicine

When you need medical help, figuring out where to go isn’t always easy. Get the right care, at the right time, at the right place. At CalvertHealth Urgent Care, our providers are trained to diagnose, treat and manage a wide range of medical conditions for every member of your family. We want to help you choose the right place to go so your care won’t be delayed and you’ll get the best care possible. Call one of our three Urgent Care locations. Staff will talk to you about your concerns and give you an appointment or direct you to the Emergency Department. Learn more about Urgent Care at CalvertHealthMedicine.org.

Remember, for life-threatening situations, always call 911 or go directly to the Emergency Department. Urgent Care Dunkirk Weekdays 5-10 p.m. 410-286-7911 Weekends Noon -10 p.m.

Urgent Care Prince Frederick Weekdays 2-10 p.m. 410-535-8911 Weekends Noon -10 p.m.

Urgent Care Solomons Weekdays 2-10 p.m. 410-394-2800 Weekends Noon -10 p.m.