The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
County Times St. Mary’s
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Thursday, February 22, 2018
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IN LOCAL STUDENTS ARRESTED FOR SCHOOL SHOOTING THREATS IN EDUCATION SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES 2019 BUDGET IN COPS & COURTS BUSHWOOD MAN CHARGED IN CALVERT ROBBERY PHOTO BY CEANDRA SCOTT
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The County Times
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CONTENTS
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LOCAL
Thursday, February 22, 2018
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“WHO CAN REALLY SAY WHAT’S IN THEIR MINDS?”
Local News 3 —SHERIFF TIMOTHY K. CAMERON ON TWO LEONARDTOWN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ARRESTED FOR THREATENING TO COMMIT A SCHOOL SHOOTING. Cops & Courts 7 Legals 8 In Our Community 10 Feature 14 Education 18 In Local Obituaries 20 Page 4 Community Calendar 22 Senior Calendar 24 Library Calendar 24 Sports 25 In Community Games 27 Page 11 Contributing Writers 28 Letters to the Editor 29 Business Directory & Classifieds 30
In Feature Page 14
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Thursday, February 22, 2018
The County Times
School Shooting Threats Lead To Arrests By Guy Leonard Staff Writer
Two St. Mary’s County Public Schools students, both males, have been arrested for allegedly making threats that they would perpetrate a school shooting and “were too smart to get caught.” Another man, the father of one of the juveniles and a federally licensed gun dealer, is being sought by local authorities. David William Fairfax, 39, of Leonardtown is being charged by warrant with two counts of reckless endangerment, one count of allowing a minor access to firearms and one count of illegal transfer of a firearm. The two juveniles, 15 and 16 years old, have been charged with making threats of mass violence, a misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to 10 years of incarceration. Their names have not been released; Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron said they are both being charged as juveniles. Both juveniles attend Leonardtown High School, according to police. Cameron said that Fairfax, who ran a legal gun sales business from his home, did not secure the weapons from being accessed by the juveniles as required by law. Police say one of the juveniles made posts on social media that were concerning and that he had access to firearms. Search warrants executed resulted in seizures of semi-automatic rifles, handguns and other weapons, as well as ammunition. The firearms in question were legal, Cameron said, but some were not properly 18 RYLAND • 20 stored as to SOUTHERN MA Y ECTOR be inaccesBUSINESS DIR sible to unto authorized e id u Your G persons. Ca mices in rv e S & s ct eron said u d Pro ryland a M rn e it was not th u o S
Local
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OF RY PRODUCT
County Times
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FCC To Boost Rural High Speed Internet By Guy Leonard Staff Writer
Certain homes and businesses in both Calvert and St. Mary’s counties are eligible for assistance from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to get high speed internet access routed to their rural locations. “Connecting the unconnected in rural America is my top priority,” said FCC Chairman Ajit Pai in a prepared statement. “I’m excited that our CAF [Connect America Fund] auction will provide opportunities for innovative companies and cooperatives to bridge the digital divide for the Maryland consumers and small businesses that lack high speed access today.” The FCC is set to release funds from the Connect America Fund July 24 to underserved communities; the fund is designed to offset the high cost of bringing broadband to rural areas. According to the FCC 124 homes are eligible in Calvert and 255 homes are eligible in St. Mary’s. Atlantic Broadband, which recently bought out MetroCast as the community
internet and cable provider, said it might consider taking part in the auction. “Atlantic Broadband actively supports efforts to provide High Speed Internet service to those who live in un-served areas. We have invested millions of dollars in the last several years to expand our network into areas like St. Mary’s and Calvert,” said Scott Randall, Vice President and General Manager, Maryland and Delaware for Atlantic Broadband. “We will review the Connect America Fund opportunity to determine if this solution will aid Atlantic Broadband’s effort to continue to serve these areas in the future.” The process entails local providers of high-speed internet capacity competing for a portion of $2 billion to be doled out nationwide. The application period for providers to participate in the “reverse auction” runs from March 19 to March 30. The broadband expansion would not be immediate, however, since the buildout would take place over the next 10 years. guyleonard@countytimes.net
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certain that the two juveniles actually planned to carry out a mass shooting at a school, but the threats warranted immediate investigation and action. “Who can really say what’s in their minds,” Cameron told The County Times. Later at a press conference in Leonardtown at school board headquarters, both Superintendent Scott Smith and State’s Attorney Richard Fritz said quick action by concerned students and citizens prevented what could have been another mass shooting at a school. Smith said the two juveniles were overheard “how they could have done it better.” Cameron said the two suspects also said they “had the tactics” and the means to exceed the casualties at Parkland; both students denied making any threats when they were confronted by police. The same search warrants executed at Fairfax’s home showed that two juvenile males living there, including one of the suspects, both had handguns in their rooms that were not secured. “We take every threat very, very seriously,” Cameron said. “See something, say something works.” Fritz praised the students and school system for responding so quickly with law enforcement. “This is a prime example of how young people… can bring safety to their school system,” Fritz said, adding that the action taken to confront the alleged threat prevented “a situation that could’ve become extremely tragic.” Smith also addressed similar but less specific threats made about potential shootings at Great Mills High School and Esperanza Middle School on Wednesday. “We’re working with the sheriff’s office to track down the source,” said Smith.
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The County Times
Local News
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Annual Survey Estimates Number of Ducks, Geese and Swans Maryland Midwinter Waterfowl Survey Shows Increase
Each winter, aerial survey teams of biologists from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service make visual estimates of ducks, geese and swans along the state’s coast and shoreline. This year, teams counted about 1,023,300 waterfowl, well above the 812,600 birds observed during 2017 and higher than the five-year average of 851,980. In general, biologists attribute much of the year-to-year variation to weather conditions in Maryland, as well as other locations on flyways used by migratory birds. “Cold weather and accompanying ice and snow to our north will typically push birds south as they search for food and open water,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “The more severe that cold weather is the more dramatic migrations to more southerly locations can be.” Overall, dabbling ducks were higher (108,000) than last winter (87,900). Diving duck numbers (187,200) were lower when compared to last winter (283,600). Survey teams observed the most Canada geese (641,200) since the survey began in 1955. The 641,200 Canada geese observed in this year’s survey was higher than the previous record of 608,000 in 1981. An above average hatch by the Atlantic, or migratory, population Canada geese coupled with an influx of resident Canada geese from states to the Photo from MD DNR by J. Scott Bruce north of Maryland, most likely account for the record high count. The Midwinter Waterfowl Survey has been conducted annually since the early 1950s. The Maryland survey results are ultimately pooled to provide a measure of the distributional changes and long-term trends of waterfowl wintering in the Atlantic Flyway.
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Calvert Cliffs Refueling Powers Local Economy 1,200 workers travel to Calvert County
Operators at Exelon Generation’s Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant removed Unit 1 from service just after midnight Sunday to begin a planned refueling outage, capping a record-setting run of 628 consecutive days of power generation. Work completed during the refueling outage will help the unit deliver zero-emission, resilient and reliable power to almost a million homes and businesses during the next two-year operating cycle. To support the refueling outage, approximately 1,200 additional workers will travel to Calvert for several weeks, filling nearby hotels to capacity and increasing foot traffic in restaurants and shops at a time when tourism is usually slow. “Calvert Cliffs’ annual refueling outages have a huge impact on our local economy and this year will be no different,” said Calvert County Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Bob Carpenter. “Our business community welcomes the hundreds of people coming to Calvert County to our hotels, motels, restaurants and tourist attractions.” While the unit is offline, technicians will replace nearly one-third of the reactor’s fuel and perform more than
7,500 inspections, tests, maintenance activities and modifications. Many of the tasks performed during the outage cannot be accomplished while the unit is online. Additionally, this year, Calvert is replacing a high-pressure turbine on the non-nuclear side of the plant. This investment in state-of-the-art equipment is expected to result in an additional 11 megawatts of generation. “We are proud to produce almost a third of Maryland’s power with clean, safe and reliable nuclear generation,” said Calvert Cliffs Site Vice President Mark Flaherty. “Our outage investments in state-of- the art equipment and new technologies will help ensure safe, reliable operations for years to come.” Calvert Cliffs is located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay in Calvert County and is Maryland’s only nuclear energy facility. The station is home to two pressurized water reactors capable of generating 1,756 megawatts combined, enough to power more approximately 30 percent of all homes and businesses in the state of Maryland. Press Release from Exelon Generation
Thursday, February 22, 2018
The County Times
Local News
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Governor Announces Juvenile Charged In Education Lockbox Leonardtown Middle Incident Proposal
Governor Larry Hogan has announced legislation to create a “lockbox” for education funding to ensure that all revenues from Maryland casinos go directly to funding K-12 education and improvements to the state’s public school facilities. The governor was joined by Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot, a longtime advocate for reforming the funding system set up by f lawed legislation passed in 2007. “Ensuring that this money is required to be used the way voters were promised it would be is long overdue; this is a bipartisan issue that a majority of Marylanders agree with,” said Governor Hogan. “The additional revenue that was promised for the classrooms should be required to go into the classrooms, and the people of Maryland and our children should not have to wait for another election in order to fix this important issue.” Maryland voters approved slot machine gambling in 2008 based on a pledge from the legislature and previous administration that the new revenues generated would supplement existing funding. However, the legislation that was enacted allowed for the new revenues to simply supplant existing funding. The governor’s Commitment to Education Act of 2018 will increase education spending by more than $4.4 billion over the next decade by phasing in casino revenues from the Education Trust Fund over the next four years. The legislation also dedicates the first 20 percent of these revenues to school construction starting im-
mediately, which will add an additional $1 billion over the decade. Compt roller Franchot, who has been warning Marylanders of the problems with the existing legislation for over a decade, affirmed his support for the governor’s bill. “Students, teachers and families have waited long enough for state government to finally deliver on its promise. This session, I hope that both sides of the aisle can set partisanship aside, and come together to do the right thing, by passing this bill and sending it to the governor’s desk,” said the comptroller. Governor Hogan’s Fiscal Year 2019 budget provides $6.5 billion for K-12 education, which is record funding for a fourth straight year and includes an additional $140 million in direct aid to ensure funding increased for all jurisdictions and $15.2 million over and above legislative funding formulas. The governor and the comptroller are also providing an additional $365 million for school construction in the next fiscal year through the Board of Public Works, which they sit on along with Treasurer Nancy Kopp. This constitutes the largest investment in school construction funding in a decade. “Voters want to know that these dollars that were promised for schools actually go to schools – that is exactly what our education lockbox legislation will accomplish. Our Commitment to Education Act of 2018 will finally fulfill the promise made to voters back in 2007,” said Governor Hogan. “Our administration didn’t make that promise, but it’s imperative that we all come together to keep that promise.”
By Guy Leonard Staff Writer
A chaperone at a school-sponsored dance at Leonardtown Middle School Feb. 16 was accused by a young girl of inappropriate touching, but an investigation revealed that her accusations were false, police have reported. The 13-year-old girl has since been charged as a juvenile for making a false statement on Monday but was released to her parent pending a ruling from the Department of Juvenile Justice, according to police. The chaperone, who was not employed by the county public school system, was said to have touched the young female and made her uncomfortable, but video surveillance of the event “conclusively refuted” her allegations, police stated. The incident created a firestorm of controversy on-line with parents who knew the chaperone posting his picture on social media venue’s such as Face-
book as the investigation unfolded. But by Monday, when sheriff’s investigators and school security officials had cleared the chaperone of wrong-doing, much of the information about the chaperone’s identity had been removed from on-line sources. A message sent to parents of Leonardtown Middle School parents over the weekend from the school’s principal Deborah A.G. Dennie also said the accusations were unfounded. “There was no truth to the claim,” Dennie wrote to parents. “In a time when tensions run high around the nation and we continue to be terrified for our students when at school, I would like to acknowledge the concerns of parents and students and stress that the administration, faculty and staff of Leonardtown Middle School remain steadfast in our commitment to ensure the safety of all of our students.” guyleonard@countytimes.net
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The County Times
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Hogan Administration Announces Coordinated Effort to Bring 500,000 Meal Kits to Marylanders in Need Meals Will Be Distributed to Nonprofit Organizations Across the State
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ANNAPOLIS, MD – The Hogan administration today announced a partnership between the Maryland Department of General Services (DGS), L the Governor’s Office of Community InitiaI tives (GOCI), and the Department of S Maryland Housing and Community T Development (DHCD) to coordinate the acquisiI tion and distribution of 500,000 N approximately shelf-stable meal kits, valG ued at over $2 million, to needy Marylanders. The P meal kits will be given Maryland nonprofit R to organizations, including I food pantries and home shelters, whose mission is to feed the C underserved. “Our administration is committed to E finding opportunities to help those most : in need,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “This partnership between our state $ agencies, and with the support and asof Maryland’s nonprofit organi2 sistance zations, will provide nutritious meals to 1 families in need of assistance across the state.” 9 The distribution of the shelf-stable kits was made available through , meal the Department of General Services’ 9 Federal Surplus Donation Program. As the designated Maryland state agency 0 to receive surplus property through the General Services Administration 0 U.S. (GSA), DGS administers the program, which enables eligible, non-federal organizations to obtain surplus personal property no longer required by the federal government, and at no cost. More than 60 nonprofit organizations across the state have applied to receive the meal kits. “The surplus property program is a great opportunity to get these meal kits and other resources directly into Maryland communities,” said DGS Secretary Ellington E. Churchill Jr. “Our agency is committed to delivering essential services to the citizens of Maryland and this partnership does just that.” GOCI is coordinating the receipt of the meal kits with the nonprofits and local jurisdictions. “Our office is honored to help execute Governor Hogan’s mission to support
our communities across the state in every way possible,” said Steve McAdams, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives. “We are thrilled to be a part of this important new partnership and to connect the hundreds of Maryland non-profit organizations we work with every year to the resources they need.” “When we learned of this surplus, we immediately turned to the network of 17 Community Action Agencies in Maryland. These organizations, funded in part by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, run a wide range of services for low-income individuals and families, including food pantries, meals for seniors, homeless shelters and much more,” said Secretary Kenneth C. Holt. “This is a terrific opportunity to get this food directly into the hands and mouths of Maryland’s most vulnerable populations.” Through GOCI and DHCD’s outreach efforts, the state confirmed a critical demand of 500,000 meals equaling 468 pallets or 18 truckloads of meal kits. DGS and DHCD coordinated the transportation of the meal kits from Greensville, North Carolina to Crownsville, Maryland. The Anne Arundel County Food Bank in Crownsville, Maryland has volunteered their facility to act as a distribution hub for nonprofits that request the meals over the following weeks. —Office of the Governor
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Cops & Courts
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Man Accused of St. Mary’s Man Accused Molesting 7-year-old in Calvert Robbery
Zachary Lee Thomas
By Guy Leonard Staff Writer
Sheriff’s office detectives have arrested a man for molesting a 7-year-old girl in his care; charging documents show that the abuse had occurred over the course of about a year. Authorities were first warned about the alleged crimes of Zachary Lee Thomas, 23, of Lexington Park when the victim in the case told police that he
had sexually violated her “on several occasions.” Detectives found Thomas at a Yorktown Road address and he consented to speak to sheriff’s detectives, charging documents stated. “Initially he adamantly denied ever touching [the victim]… in any way,” charging papers stated. This line of questioning continued until Thomas asked to speak to the detective in their police vehicle away from the residence, charging papers stated. “Ultimately… the defendant confessed to [sexually abusing the victim,]” according to court papers. The alleged abuse happened when the mother of the victim was away from the home, court papers stated. Thomas faces charges of sexual abuse of a minor in this case; court records show that Thomas was already facing two counts of fourthdegree sex offense in another case that occurred last year. Thomas was facing trial for that case this week but it was postponed by the court.
By Guy Leonard Staff Writer
Calvert County sheriff’s detectives have arrested two men, one a St. Mary’s County man, for allegedly robbing the Dash-In store in Prince Frederick which occurred Feb. 12. Both Levi Lawrence Hill, of Bushwood, and Michael Shelton Wiggins, of Accokeek have been charged with armed robbery and conspiracy to commit armed robbery, while Hill has been charged with additional counts to include two counts of second-degree assault and two counts of reckless endangerment. Both men also face charges of theft and conspiracy to commit theft. Charging documents show that one of the two defendants went to the Dash-In and asked for five dollars to be put on one of the pumps for gas, and then asked for change for the five dollars; the store workers noted his erratic behavior. “Suspect [No.] 1 kept his right hand in his shirt pocket as if he was armed
with a weapon,” charging documents stated. The second suspect came in and engaged some of the store workers in order to distract them, charging documents stated, and the first suspect then reached over the counter and pulled an amount of cash out of the cash register. The store clerks, once they realized what had happened, came around to confront the two suspects but one of them pulled a canister of pepper spray on them in a threatening manner. The two suspects then left. Once detectives viewed the surveillance footage of the incident and found out the license plate of the car driven by the suspects, a 2011 Dodge Nitro, and trace it back to Hill’s address on Hilltop Drive in Bushwood. The car belonged to another person, police stated. Both men remain incarcerated in the county detention center, according to court records. guyleonard@countytimes.net
guyleonard@countytimes.net
St. Mary’s County • Calvert County
CountyTimes
Michael Wiggins
Levi Hill
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Cops & Courts
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
St. Mary’s County Sherrif’s Office Weekly Blotter
Disorderly- On February 4, 2018, DFC. Lawrence was at the WAWA, located in the 23000 block of Three Notch Road, in California, in reference to a large crowd. While on scene conducting crowd control, Miesha Cherise Thomas, age 23, of Great Mills, was yelling and creating a disturbance. Thomas was asked numerous times to cease her behavior. Thomas continued to yell obscenities and cause a disturbance and was arrested. Thomas was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Fail Thomas to Obey a Lawful Order. CASE# 6307-18 Weapons Violation- On February 5, 2018, Dep. McClure responded to a motor vehicle accident in the 28000 block of Pt. Lookout Road, in Leonardtown. The vehicle was operated by Joseph Francis Yates, age 58, of Mechanicsville. The vehicle was disabled and needed to be towed from the accident
scene. A vehicle inventory was completed and the handle of a pistol was observed under the front driver’s seat of the vehicle; further search revealed a loaded .380 pistol under the driver’s seat. A check of the pistol revealed it was reported stolen, and Yates is a convicted felon, thus it is illegal for him to possess ammunition or a handgun. Yates was arrested and charged with Illegal Possession of Ammunition, Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm, Handgun in Vehicle, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of a Firearm w/Felony Conviction. CASE# 6525-18 Alter Drug Test- On February 5, 2018, Dep. Edwards responded to the St. Mary’s County Deten-
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tion and Rehabilitation Center, located in Leonardtown, in reference to an altered urinalysis. Investigation revealed Rashaun Montgomery Peebles age 39, of Charlotte Hall, was court ordered to provide a urinalysis; Peebles attempted to alter the test and provide a false sample. Peebles was charged with Alter Drug/Alcohol Test. CASE# 6566-18 Violation of Protective Order- On February 5, 2018, Dep. Payne responded to the 42000 block of Redgate Farm Lane, in Leonardtown, in reference to a protective order violation. Investigation revealed Aleksandar Andreev Ivanchev, age 35, of Lexington Park, violated a valid protective order by sending a message to a protected party of the order. Ivanchev was arrested and charged with Violate Exparte/Protective Ivanchev Order. CASE# 6516-18
Yates
—Cpl. Julie Yingling, Sheriff ’s Office PIO
Peebles
LEGALS Legal Notice IN THE MATTER OF STEVEN AUSTIN BRODIGAN FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO STEVEN AUSTIN QUADE In the Circuit Court for St. Mary’s County, Maryland Case No.: C-18-FM-17-164 Notice (Adult) (DOM REL 61) The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which he seeks to change his name from Steven Austin Brodigan to Steven Austin Quade. The petitioner is seeking a name change because: I would like my stepfather’s last name. Any person may file an objection to the Petition on or before the 12th day of March, 2018. The objection must be supported by an affidavit and served upon the Petitioner in accordance with Maryland Rule 1-321. Failure to file an objection or affidavit within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought. Tracy L. Cantrell, Acting Clerk of Court for St. Mary’s County Maryland February 22, 2018
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The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
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In Our Community
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Annual Taste of Solomons Coming Next Month Restaurants Offer Tastes of Fine Food & Beverages New tastes abound in the historic Solomons Town Center as restaurants showcase selected food and beverages during the one-day food festival, The Taste of Solomons 2018 from 11am to 4pm, Saturday, March 24th. The event is one of the yearly signature events designed and sponsored by the Solomons Business Association, with proceeds to benefit the association’s annual July 4th fireworks display. “The Taste of Solomons provides the community a way to sample and enjoy a waterfront town during the Spring season,” according to Taste of Solomons Co Chair Christopher Donaldson. Tickets are $4 each and may be purchased at any of the participating businesses. Each ticket can be exchanged for a sample of selected food or beverages. Many restaurants are also participating in a Gift Certificate Prize program, with some of the tickets at each location designated as prize winners. The lucky purchaser will be awarded a gift certificate for future use at the respective restaurant. Past Participating businesses have been: The Island Hideaway, The Ruddy Duck, Boomerangs Original Ribs, Isaac’s
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Restaurant and Pub at the Holiday Inn, EZ Thai Too, Captain Smith’s Seafood Market, Angler’s Seafood Bar and Grill, Kingfishers Seafood Bar and Grill, The Crab Pot, Carmen’s Gallery, The Lighthouse Restaurant and Dock Bar, The Lotus Kitchen and Kim’s Key Lime Pies, Grill Sergeant Barbecue, The Charles Street Brasserie, Sail Solomons, Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center, and the Calvert Marine Museum. Tickets will also be available at the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices McNelis Group Properties office starting Wednesday, March 21st and during the event on March 24th. There will be an updated Participating businesses list released to the community in a few weeks. For more information on the Taste of Solomons, call 443.722.5966 or 240.577.1002. For a map of participating restaurants and their offerings, or for information on activities, shopping, dining, and lodging in Solomons, visit www.solomonsmaryland. com. Press Release from Taste of Solomons
Thursday, February 22, 2018
The County Times
Great Mills Wins SMAC Campionship
In Our Community
11
Rare Disease Day Proclaimed
Chesapeake Beach Town Council proclaimed Rare Disease Day at its Feb. 15 meeting. Mayor Pat Mahoney presented the proclamation to Rare Action Network Volunteer State Ambassador Lydia Seiders as the rest of the town council looked on. GMHS Boys Varsity Head Coach, Jeff “Pee-Wee” Burrell accepts SMAC Award for Championship win against St. Charles HS 57 v. 51. Photo by Ceandra Scott.
Board of Public Works Approves Program Open Space Acquisition
The Board of Public Works today unanimously approved a Maryland Department of Natural Resources acquisition of 522 acres in Charles County for the development of a new Wildlife Management Area that will provide both conservation and recreation benefits. Adjacent to county managed land, the site will provide numerous recreational opportunities for Southern Maryland residents and visitors, including birding, hiking, hunting and trapping. The new property will be managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service. The acquisition will permanently protect agricultural fields and forested uplands as well as stream corridors and
ravines. The property drains into Popes Creek and its 60-acre estuarine marsh, much of which has been protected by the county. Popes Creek Valley has been identified as a Natural Heritage Area. The acquisition will further protect the creek’s wetlands, which support an uncommonly high diversity of flora and fauna, and large woodlands that provide essential habitat for forest interior dwelling species such as songbirds. “This acquisition is a win-win for environmental advocates and outdoor enthusiasts,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “This incredibly beautiful property, right off the Potomac River, will protect ecologically-sensitive habitat, wetlands and woodlands while providing an excellent location for outdoor recreational activities and opportunities, be it hiking or hunting.” The property also provides important scenic value along the Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway and the Booth’s Escape National Scenic Byway. The Program Open Space acquisition was leveraged with funds from the U.S. Navy Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration program through the U.S. Department of Defense. The department also worked in cooperation with The Trust for Public Land to complete this acquisition. —Maryland DNR
Land Trust to Hold Meet and Greet
The Patuxent Tidewater Land Trust (PTLT) will hold a Meet & Greet at the Port of Leonardtown Winery February 23 from 6-8 p.m. The event provides the public with an opportunity to meet PTLT board, staff, and volunteers and to learn more about the benefits of donating land and conservation easements for the protection of the Southern Maryland countryside. Highlighting the Meet & Greet will be a short talk by noted ornithologist and PTLT board member David Moulton. Moulton will discuss the critical connections between land conservation and the variety of birds still present in St. Mary’s County, particularly open grassland species. Protecting our rural legacy is both a deeply felt human priority but also the foundation for the survival of diverse birdlife. Moulton, an avid birder, is the field trip coordinator for the Southern Maryland Audubon Society and serves on the board of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. To attend this free event, contact Annabelle Harvey with the number of people in your party: annabelleharvey17@ gmail.com. For more information and directions to the Port of Leonardtown Winery, please visit www.patuxenttidewater.org. PTLT’s mission is to sustain the region’s biodiversity and water resources through a network of protected landscapes. The organization recognizes that forest and farmland and the region’s unique historic and scenic character are vital to a healthy economy and citizens’ sense of well-being. PTLT acquires land
David Moulton
and conservation easements by purchase or donation. The Trust has conserved more than 5,000 acres of land in perpetuity, keeping it as farm and forest to meet today’s needs and those of future generations. Property owners interested in learning more about preserving their land should contact Patuxent Tidewater Land Trust Executive Director Andrew Garde (410.53.0042 or Andrew@patuxenttidewater.org) or Frank Allen, president (301.862.3421 or corncribstudio@ outlook.com). Anyone can support the PTLT mission by becoming a Friend. Visit www.patuxent-tidewater.org to learn more. Press Release from Patuxent Tidewater Land Trust
12
In Our Community
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Governor Larry Hogan Announces New Text to 9-1-1 System for Maryland Governor Larry Hogan today announced the Board of Public Works’ approval of a new Text to 9-1-1 technology for Maryland, helping to update 1960s-era emergency systems with life-saving technology. This new Internet-based infrastructure allows citizens to send a Short Message Service (SMS) text message to 9-1-1. The Federal Communications Commission estimates that more than 70 percent of all 9-1-1 calls now come from cellular users. “This new technology is a vital public safety tool that could potentially help save the lives of citizens who find themselves in an emergency situation,” said Governor Hogan. “I want to commend the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services for their hard work to implement this system for all Marylanders.” Text to 9-1-1 supports 160 characters per message, but no multimedia messaging, such as photos or video. The Maryland Emergency Numbers System Board, under the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, is responsible for overseeing Maryland’s emergency 9-1-1 system, including administering the 9-1-1 Trust Fund, which will fund the new technology. “The Hogan administration clearly recognizes the importance of ensuring that all Marylanders
have access to emergency services,” said Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Secretary Stephen Moyer. “Text to 9-1-1 is a major step in modernizing our systems and giving citizens the ability to reach first responders when a call isn’t feasible.” As the location for the Maryland School for the Deaf, Frederick County was chosen as the only Maryland county for a 2015 pilot program to launch Text to 9-1-1. “We are thrilled to welcome this public safety tool for Maryland’s 1.2 million deaf and hard of hearing residents, those with a speech impairment, and anyone in an emergency situation where a voice call would be dangerous or impossible,” said Kelby Brick, Director for the Governor’s Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. The Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, in keeping with nationwide best practices and preferred methods for implementing Text to 9-1-1, negotiated the procurement of a master contract for the entire state that will enable Maryland’s remaining 23 counties to secure the technology. These improvements facilitate better government efficiency and delivery of the technology. —Office of the Governor
St. Mary’s County Public Library & St. Mary’s County Health Department Presents The Opioid Learning Series TITLE “Chasing the Dragon” Screening & Discussion The Opioid Crisis in St. Mary’s County Prevention & Recognizing the Signs of Use: Adults & Youth Stigma Around the Disease of Addiction Treatment of Opioid Use Disorders Responses to Opioid Missue & Overdose: Adults & Youths
*DATE 1/11/18
TIME 6:00-7:00 PM
1/25/18
6:00-7:00 PM
2/8/18
6:00-7:00 PM
2/22/18
6:00-7:00 PM
3/8/18
6:00-7:00 PM
3/22/18
6:00-7:00 PM
* Dates are subject to change based on weather conditions. For registration and more information, please go to www.stmalib.org
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
In Our Community
13
CHURCH SERVICES
DIRECTORY CATHOLIC CHURCH
St. Cecilia Church
47950 Mattapany Rd, PO Box 429 St. Mary’s City, MD 20686 301-862-4600 Vigil Mass: 4:30 pm Saturday Sunday: 8:00 am Weekday (M-F): 7:30 am Confessions: 3-4 pm Saturday www.stceciliaparish.com
EPISCOPAL CHURCH Christ Episcopal Church King & Queen Parish founded 1692 25390 Maddox Road | Chaptico, MD 20621
www.cckqp.net
301-884-3451
Sunday Worship 7:45am Holy Eucharist, Rite I 11:00am Holy Eucharist, Rite II, Organ & Choir
All are Welcome
BAPTIST CHURCH
PENTECOSTAL CHURCH
Victory Baptist Church 29855 Eldorado Farm rd CharlottE hall, md 20659
301-884-8503
Order Of gOOd news services sun schOOl, all ages…...............10:00
sun mOrning wOrship.............…11:00 sun evening wOrship….................7:00 wed evening prayer mtg.........…7:00
ProClaiming thE ChangElEss word in a Changing world. Chapel Meeting at Dent Memorial Hall Charlotte Hall Road, Charlotte Sundays - 10:00 am - Holy Eucharist Traditional Anglican Worship
Jesus saves
victOrybaptistchurchmd.Org
ANGLICAN CATHOLIC
St. Anne’s Church “First Millennium Faith for a Third Millennium World” (301)934-6873
New service time Sunday New Morning Worship 9:00 a.m.
Seek Shelter for Your Soul
service time Sunday Tuesday New service Morning 9:00 a.m.time Pastoral Teaching 7:00 p.m. Worship Sunday
Morning Worship 9:00 a.m. Tuesday Pastoral Teaching 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday Our new location Pastoral Teaching 7:00 p.m. 46694 Midway Dr. Lexington Park, MD 20653 301-866-5772 Pastor James L. Bell, Sr. First Lady Diane Bell
Our new location Our new location 46694 Midway Dr. METHODIST CHURCH 46694 Midway Dr. LexingtonLexington Park, MD 20653 Park, MD 20653 Hollywood United Methodist Church 301-866-5772 301-866-5772 24422 Mervell Dean Rd • Hollywood, MD 20636 Pastor James L.James Bell, L.Sr. Pastor Bell, Sr. LadyBell Diane Bell First LadyFirst Diane 301-373-2500
Katie Paul, Pastor Sunday Worship 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday School for all ages 9:45 a.m. All of our services are traditional. Child care is provided. Sunday Evening Youth Group Christian Preschool and Kindergarten available
To place an ad on This page conTacT Jen sToTler aT 301-247-7611 or Jen@counTyTimes.neT
14
Feature
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Bringing Fun Closer To Home
Trisha Rodocaj at Escape From The Past
By Guy Leonard Staff Writer
Two local businesses, one in operation for five years and the other for only about five months, are helping
Photo by Ceandra Scott
to remove one of the most common complaints about St. Marys’ County for all its growing wealth and population; that there is “nothing to do here.” Rebecca Ali, a software engineer by trade turned tabletop gaming entrepreneur, has operated High Tide Games in Lexington Park since 2013. A n d on Friday nights her venue is packed with gamers young and old looking for fun. When she started her business she was looking for something fun to do, too. “I had the same complaint so that’s why I did this,” Ali said. Just down the road on Three Notch Road, at Escape From the Past, Tri-
sha Radocaj has partnered an important part in attracting a with her husband Daniel young, highly skilled workforce to and John Tonkryo to create St. Mary’s County. puzzle rooms that groups This is a key strategic element in of people have to think the county’s effort to diversity the their way out of. economy, by making it more attracShe caught the escape tive for younger professionals to room bug when she went live, work and raise a family here. through one near Chicago “We’re trying to attract millenisome years ago. als here,” Kaselemis said. “And the Radocaj, an engineer by more things there are for people to training, had so much fun do here, the more dollars stay here she wanted to replicate the as well.” experience here and give Kaselemis said the idea that there people something fun to do was little to do in St. Mary’s was in the process. a canard, but it stuck nonetheless; “We’ve lived here long entrepreneurs who opened up busienough and listened to nesses with a fun premise helped to people whine about there dispel that myth. being nothing to do,” Ra“We encourage a lot more places docaj told The County to open like this,” Kaselemis said. Times. The premise of both businesses is The escape room experi- to have fun while using faculties of ment has only been running focus, concentration, intellect and since late last year, Rado- imagination. caj said, but the response Both businesses are built from the from the community has passions of their owners, and both been strong and positive. of them looked beyond the risks in “We’re getting some people starting a new venture. who’ve been to escape rooms but “People like to complain, but I there are so many who haven’t been wanted to do something,” Ali said. to one, which is fantastic,” Radocaj “I have three kids… and I don’t said. want them to grow up in a place Ali said her business sprang where there’s nothing to do.” up from the unlikeliest of When Ali got into table top gamcircumstances. ing she found that gamers had to “I was going through a divorce and I needed a distraction,” she said of taking up the competitive card game Magic. “This helped me get through it. “It’s exactly what I needed.” Her shop at San Souci Plaza has become a center for all kinds of table top gaming, from classic Dungeon’s and Dragons role playing, Pokemon, WarHammer, and Magic to games like Settlers of Cataan just to name a few. Chris Kaselemis, the county’s Director of the Department of Economic Development, said businesses like High Tide Games and Escape From The Past played Photo by Ceandra Scott
Thursday, February 22, 2018
meet in various places and that where ever they went there wasn’t enough space to take on their burgeoning numbers. “There was a need and there was an obvious one,” Ali said, noting she had to familiarize herself with many other games to get her business started. “When I opened this place I didn’t know anything except Magic,” she said. “I was clueless about the rest.” As she operates High Tide, she is constantly seeking new products that gamers want. “Part of the struggle in this business is finding what people want,” Ali said. “I’m always looking for new games.” Radocaj also said she and her partners are still coming to grips with being entrepreneurs. “I’m still learning,” Radocaj said. “But I love that you can come and do something with your friends. “It’s really fun.” Being in charge at Escape From The Past means that she and her partners are setting up escape rooms and watching progress of clients more than solving puzzles, Ra-
The County Times
Feature
docaj said. But that also means they have to stay creative in coming up with riddles for customers to solve. That energizes her, she said. “We come up with the puzzles,” Radocaj said. “We love that.” Once inside an escape room, customers have to work together and communicate to make their getaway; it’s all about using the mind and not physical exertion. “You have to talk to each other,” Radocaj said. “You have to work together. “People get a sense of accomplishment.” Ali said running a business focused on providing a fun venue was a daunting one but it has turned into something she loves. If more people committed to starting similar businesses, it could help reshape the recreation scene in St. Mary’s, she said. It just took determination. “I decided I’d do this and that I’d do it all the way,” Ali said. guyleonard@countytimes.net
Rebecca Ali at High Tide Games. Photo by Ceandra Scott
The rule board at Escape From The Past
15
Feature
16
The County Times
301-690-2192 www.portofleonardtown.com
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Thursday, February 22, 2018
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22660 Washington St. • 240-309-4061 Across from Winegardner Motor Co. The annual Youth Art Month reception and display will be held at St. Mary’s County Arts Council from 5-7 PM and will feature the work of students in grades 3-12. The 2018 theme is “Building Community Through Art” and will showcase the work of young artists who submitted pieces for the contest and exhibit, artwork may also be purchased. Everyone is invited to attend, prizes will be awarded for the top 3 winners. Show will run through the month of March. Stop by and show your support for our talented artists! You are also invited to stop by from 7-8 PM for the audience participation Drum Circle with the SoMar Drummers, bring your instruments or use those available here.
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41655A Fenwick St. 301-475-2859 Fred Ruark will be signing copies of his book, The Saints Lost their way from 5-7 PM on Friday, March 2nd.
To schedule a tour or speak to admissions, please call 301-475-8000 ext.125
County Times St. Mary’s County ● Calvert County
To advertise on this page
Call 301-247-7611 or Email jen@countytimes.net
SPICE STUDIO
22715 Washington Street Suite #1 • 678-640-2130 Join Taryn Brown at SPICE Studio on March 2nd at 6:15 PM for the wildly addictive cardio dance class, WERQ! WERQ (pronounced “work”) is the fiercely fun dance fitness workout based on pop and hip hop music. Wear workout clothes and gym shoes. Expect to SWEAT and burn around 500-900 calories each hour of WERQ! All dance and fitness abilities welcome. To sign up visit: www.somdspice.com
GOOD EARTH
41625 Park Ave. • 302-438-1629 For March First Friday, we will be featuring a new smoothie called ‘Still Life with Oranges and Greens’! The smoothie consists of avocado, orange, banana, clove, orange juice, and features Vibrant Health’s Field of Greens as a healthy and delicious boost! Vibrant Health will also be on sale for 20% off next month!
THE HAIR COMPANY
22740 Washington St. • 301-475-5225 20% Off all Farmhouse Fresh Products Friday, March 2nd from 5:307:30 PM.
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Education
17
Crazy for Ewe
Knit something beautiful
FIRST FRIDAY PARTICIPANTS 2 BROKE GIRLS BOUTIQUE 22760 Washington Street
OPAL FINE ART 41625 Park Avenue
BIG LARRY’S EATERY 22745 Washington Street www.biglarryscomiccafe.com
PORT OF LEONARDTOWN WINERY 23190 Newtowne Neck Road www.polwinery.com
CRAZY FOR EWE 22725 Washington Street www.crazyforewe.com
SPICE STUDIO 22715 Washington Street www.somdspice.com
FENWICK STREET USED BOOKS & MUSIC 41655 Fenwick Street
ST. MARY’S ARTS COUNCIL 22660 Washington Street
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HOME ELEMENTS 22725 Washington Street www.he-furniture.com
THE GOOD EARTH NATURAL GOODS
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Fred Ruark will be signing copies of his book, “The Saints Lost Their Way” from 5-7 PM on Friday, March 2!
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COMPANY 41675 Park Avenue www.goodearthnaturals.com THE HAIR COMPANY 22740 Washington Street www.thehaircompany.biz Make Leonardtown “Your Special Place To Be” every First Friday! LEONARDTOWN FIRST FRIDAYS
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fine art & gifts 41652 Fenwick St. Leonardtown MD 20650 www.northendgallery.com l 301-475-3130
Terri Raley
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Audience participation
Drum Circle! with the
SoMar Drummers
The Arts Council Gallery Space • 22660 Washington Street, 1st Floor
7- 8PM
18
The County Times
Education
Pet of the Week Meet Boogs!
Looking for the PERFECT SIDEKICK? Then you need to meet me! My name is Boogs and I’m as sweet as they come. You can tell just by looking at me that I’m the pal for you! I’ve lived with other cats and the only reason I’m looking for a new home is just that my previous home had too many cats. I may come across as being shy but once I warm up to you I’ll be your BEST FRIEND! I’m only SEVEN MONTHS OLD with my whole life ahead of me and I want to spend it with someone wonderful like YOU! We can have a great time playing laser pointer. It’s my favorite past time. I really can catch that thing, right? Make the call now because CAT ADOPTIONS THIS MONTH ARE ONLY $20.18!
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 Tri-County 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, February 22, 2018
School Board Approves Fiscal 2019 Budget By Guy Leonard Staff Writer
The St. Mary’s County Board of Education approved a fiscal 2019 operating budget Wednesday that has a $5.6 million increase over last year’s approved spending plan. The board put more money back into the schools budget for a junior ROTC instructor, two additional guidance counselors, a safety and security assistant as well as to support the evening high school program. The local share of the proposed fiscal 2019 schools budget is $104.2 million, or $2.04 million more than last year’s schools spending plan, according to budget documents released at the Feb. 21 school board meeting. The entire proposed schools operating budget, which includes state and federal funding, comes in at $216.1 or $5.8 million higher than last year’s total appropriation. The proposed budget funds the negotiated agreements with system employees and also has increased funding for textbooks and supplies, special education and student transportation.
The school system also anticipates 100 percent funding support from the state for four renovation projects at Park Hall, Hollywood and Green Holly elementary schools as well as a partial roof replacement at Great Mills High School. Board Member Jim Davis praised having more funding for school guidance counselors and supported bringing in more counselors trained in psychology to support mental health of students. He said they were especially needful in the aftermath of the Parkland school shooting in which a troubled 19-year-old killed 17 students at the high school there with a semi-automatic rif le. “A lot of these troubled young people… are falling through the cracks,” Davis said, adding that troubled youth needed help “so they don’t turn into these monsters.” The school budget was forwarded to the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County for their examination. guyleonard@countytime.net
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The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
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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.
Robert “Scott” Gaines Robert “Scott” Gaines, 57, of Lexington Park, MD, formerly of Bowie, MD passed away on February 18, 2018 in Lexington Park, MD. Born on January 11, 1961 in St. Louis, MO, he was the son of Sara M. Gaines and Robert M. Gaines of Bowie, MD. Scott is survived by his loving fiancée Kristie Yakel and his brother Patrick Preston of Portland, OR. Scott graduated from Bowie High School in 1980. He was employed as an Electrician for IBEW26. All Services are private. Contributions may be made to Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Attn: Membership Department; 6 Herndon Avenue Annapolis, MD 21403. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A. Leonardtown, MD.
Thursday, February 22, 2018
In Remembrance
those who love her. She will be dearly missed. Interment will take place on Friday, February 23, 2018 in St. Raymond’s Cemetery Bronx, NY. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A. Leonardtown, MD.
Benjamin “Lester” Cusic, Sr.,
Patricia “Pat” Ann Hughes
Mary “Maeve” O’Sullivan Mary “Maeve” O’Sullivan died on February 17, 2018, at St. Mary’s Nursing Center in Leonardtown, MD, finding release after spending many years in the twilight of Alzheimer’s disease. She was born August 29, 1926, to Dennis O’Mahony and Elizabeth Buckley O’Mahony in Kanturk, County Cork, Ireland. She was the youngest of six children. She had three sisters— Kay, Eilish, and Joan—and two brothers—Tadhg and Seamus—all of whom preceded her in death. She immigrated to America in the early 1960s, and she settled in the Bronx. It was there that she met her husband, Patrick O’Sullivan. They were married in 1964 and enjoyed a wonderful partnership until his death in 1997. They had two sons: Kevin O’Sullivan (wife Maureen) of East Hampton, Connecticut, and Brian O’Sullivan (wife Jennifer) of California, Maryland. She had one grandson, Ryan O’Sullivan (son of Kevin and Maureen). Maeve is also survived by her beloved niece, Judy Sullivan, and other dear family and friends in the United States and Ireland. The family wishes to thank the staff of Cedar Lane Senior Living Community and St. Mary’s Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Maryland for their compassionate care over the past several years. Maeve loved animals and had a lifelong devotion to St. Therese of the Little Flower. She enjoyed dining out with a glass of wine in the company of family and friends. Kind in a quiet, unassuming way, Maeve had a twinkle in her eyes which her illness may have dimmed – but which can never be diminished in the memories of
Patricia “Pat” Ann Hughes, 83, of Valley Lee, MD formerly from Ft. Washington, MD passed away on February 14, 2018 in Leonardtown, MD. Born on April 28, 1934 in Washington, DC, she was the daughter of the late Martha Elizabeth Alvey Foote and Joseph Elmer Foote. Pat was the loving wife of Thomas Raymond Hughes whom she married on November 10, 1956 in St. Thomas More Catholic Church Washington, DC. Pat is survived by her children; Katherine A. Hughes of Prince Frederick, MD, Linda M. Beavers (Robert) of Myrtle Beach, SC, Raymond Thomas Hughes (Ruth Ann) of Poolesville, MD, 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. As well as her sisters; Elizabeth Shafer, Janet Dietrich and Mary Danielson. She graduated from Oxon Hill High School in 1952. She moved from Ft. Washington, MD to St. Mary’s County, MD in 1988 and was a secretary for The Federal Judicial Center for 17 years, retiring in April, 1994. Pat enjoyed painting, gardening, and piano playing. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 23, 2018 from 9:0010:00 AM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD. Where a Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 AM in the Funeral Home Chapel with Deacon Joe Lloyd officiating. Interment will be private. WILLS • PROBATE ADMINISTRATION Contributions may be made to St. Jude’s ChilTRUSTS • BUSINESS LAW dren Hospital 262 Danny’s Place Memphis, TN Free Estate Classes Third Wednesday 38105. Arrangements provided of the Month at 11am by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A. 301-855-2246 • www.legalstriegel.com Leonardtown, MD.
Lynda J. Striegel & Andrea B. Baddour
Benjamin “Lester” Cusic, Sr., 93 of Leonardtown, MD passed away on February 8, 2018 in his home in Leonardtown, MD. Born on September 20, 1924 in Leonardtown, MD he was the son of the late Pearl Elizabeth Bussler Cusic and Richard Stephen Cusic. Lester was the loving husband of Frances Idalia Cusic whom he married on June 15, 1948 in Leonardtown, MD. He is survived by his children: Gail Fletcher (Jim) of Leonardtown, MD, Ben Cusic of Leonardtown, MD, Deborah Swann (Tommy) of Piney Point, MD, Marlene Long (David) of St. Mary’s City, MD and Ken Cusic (Jane) of Leonardtown, MD. 8 Grandchildren and 8 Great-Grandchildren. Siblings: Lawrence Cusic (Thelma) of Leonardtown, MD, Betty Ann Spalding (Bubby) of Leonardtown, MD and Sister-in-law, Mary Cusic. Lester was preceded in death by his Siblings: Lloyd Cusic, Melvin Cusic, Richard Cusic and John Cusic. Lester was a lifelong St. Mary’s County, MD resident. He graduated from Margaret Brent High School in 1943. He co-owned and drove a stock car locally #88. He was an avid hunter owning several pointer bird dogs. He regularly participated in field trials aboard Patuxent Naval Air Station winning multiple competitions. He was a founding member of the Rod and Gun Club. He helped build the hunting club. He enjoyed going on hunting trips to Mississippi, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Nebraska with all of his old hunting buddies. He continued to hunt until his mid-eighties with his last hunt he killed two bucks and some bark off the pine tree. He would also go on several fishing trips to the Eastern Shore and locally. While working for C&P Telephone Company he was credited for looking up the first dial up telephone in St. Mary’s County. He worked his way up to the position of Manager becoming a PBX foreman. While in this position he oversaw all the telephones on business and all local military bases. He was a member of the telephone pioneers. He was the Past President of Southern Maryland Counsel of the Pioneers. Upon retiring, he and his wife Teenie would travel to Florida for the winters. They had met and made friends from all over the country. They continued being snowbirds for over 25 years. He enjoyed the NASCAR races attending several Daytona races. He enjoyed playing golf, shuffle board, and riding his gator and golf cart. Lester took pride in helping to build his new home by operating heavy equipment even though he was in
Thursday, February 22, 2018
his mid-eighties. Some of his favorite times were spent with his children and grandchildren. Contributions may be made to Leonardtown Vol. Rescue Squad P.O. Box 299 Leonardtown, MD 20650. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A. Leonardtown, MD 20650.
Obituaries
The County Times
retired in 1988. She lived in Indian Head for 21 years where she and Tom were very active in the VFW Post 1800. They moved from Indian Head to Waldorf in 1965,
Evelyn Doris Clements Brooks Evelyn Doris Clements Brooks, 94, formerly of Waldorf MD, passed away on February 15, 2018 in Leonardtown, MD. Born April 5, 1923, in La Plata, she was the daughter of the late Christine E. and William N. Clements. She was the great-granddaughter of Dr. Samuel A. and Sarah Frances Mudd. She was a 1940 graduate of Glasva High School, Glasva, MD. She was very active in athletics at Glasva, including softball and volleyball for which she received many pins and awards. She married Thomas A. Brooks, from Dorchester, MA, on May 29, 1943, on the lovely grounds of St. Mary’s Church, Newport, MD. At that time, Mr. Brooks was stationed at Camp Gordon, GA and was a First Sergeant in the Army. Doris worked at Metropolitan Life Insurance in Washington DC, then Ely’s Department Store in Indian Head, MD and finishing her work career at Naval Ordnance Station, Indian Head, MD, from which she
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where Doris was a devoted and active member of St. Peters Parish, including the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, and Project Handclasp. She worked tirelessly for the Ecumenical Thrift Store in Waldorf. She was recognized by the Maryland Jaycees with a Certificate of Award for Maryland Jaycees Outstanding Senior Citizen dated March 13, 1993. She was an active docent at the Dr. Samuel Mudd House. She enjoyed her volunteer work, sewing, family gatherings, making many of her famous Coconut Cakes and Jewish Apple Cakes to give away. She and Tom enjoyed many trips to Ocean City, traveled many times to locations in Europe, and here in the States to join with members of the Battle of the Bulge Veterans Group and visits with family in New England. Doris was predeceased by her husband, Tom; her daughter, Evelyn Alice Renner; her parents; brothers, William (Billy) Clements; J. Allison Clements. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra (Dick) Wildes; brothers, Edward (Joyce) Clements; Carroll (Charlotte) Clements; and Leonard (Audrey) Clements. In addition, she is survived by grandchildren: Alicia (Paul) Guenther; Lynn (James) Bowling; Thomas (Karen) Renner; Stacey Haynes; great-granddhildren: Chad and Brittany Hall; Samuel Bowling; TC Renner and Devon Gormley; and John and Christina Henry and Carly Lundin.
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Calendars
Community
Calendar
ONGOING Fundraiser for LVRSA
Urban Bar-B-Que, 22845 Washington St. #1342, Leonardtown 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM thru Wed., Feb. 28 Urban BBQ CUP fundraiser for Leonardtown Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary. During the month of February if you buy their special cup when you purchase your drink the Squad gets a donation. Hope to see you there and Thank You! iloveubq.com. 240-309-4098.
“Spring Awakening,” the musical
Bruce Davis Theater, Montgomery Hall Fine Arts Center, St. Mary’s College campus Wed.-Sat., Feb. 28 - Mar. 3, 8:00 - 10:00 PM Sun., Mar. 4, 2:00 - 4:00 PM Robert Hayes’ Tony Award-winning musical adaptation of Frank Wedekind’s seminal 1891 play of the same name, “Spring Awakening” is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality, and rock-androll that celebrates teenage self-discovery and rebellion against the authoritarian rule of parents and teachers. Directed by Mark A. Rhoda, visiting associate professor of theater, film, and media studies; with musical direction by Larry Vote, professor of music. $4 for St. Mary’s College students, faculty, staff, and senior citizens and Arts Alliance members. $6 for general admission. To reserve tickets, contact the Theater Box Office at 240-895-4243 or email boxoffice@smcm.edu.
Kids Playwright Festival
All School Aged Children in the State of Maryland Through April 13 The Twin Beach Players are hosting a playwriting competition, open to all school age children in the state of Maryland. The 6 winning playwrights receive $100.00!!!! Winners are announced no later than May 30, 2018. Then, auditions are held for the top 6 winning plays. Performances of the winning plays will be August 10-19 at the North Beach Boys and Girls Club. All that enter receive a congratulatory commissioner’s certificate and coin at our VIP/Award night. Any school age child may send their original play entry to: TBP P.O. Box 600 Chesapeake Beach, MD, 20732 or Email at kpf@ twinbeachplayers.org. Entries MUST BE postmarked or emailed by April 13, 2018. Rules & Entry Forms are available to download under our KPF tab at: www.TwinBeachPlayers.org.
Free Tax Preparation
The County Times
Church of the Ascension, 21641 Great Mills Rd., Lexington Park 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM AARP Tax-Aide/IRS certified counselors will provide free tax preparation and electronic filing for low-to moderate-income taxpayers of any age in St Mary’s County, with special consideration for those 60 and older. Taxpayers do not need to be a member of AARP. We are not able to prepare returns for businesses. Walk-In Service is available for taxpayers on Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon. Additional information is available at: www.smctaxaide.org.
Thursday, February 22, 2018
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.
Thursday, February 22
Career Fair
St. Mary’s Hospital, 25500 Point Lookout Rd., Leonardtown (hospital entrance) 3:00 - 6:00 PM Grow your career with us! MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital is hosting a job fair for Telemetry, Med/Surg., ED, PACU and Radiology RN’s, Nursing Technicians, Physical Therapists, Respiratory Therapists.
April Ryan
Auerbach Auditorium of St. Mary’s Hall on the College campus 4:00 - 7:00 PM St. Mary’s College of Maryland’s Black Student Union introduce the inaugural Elizabeth Barber Walker Lecture Series with guest speaker April Ryan. Ryan’s lecture, “A White House Correspondent’s View in Black & White, Unmasking Oppression;” A book signing will follow the event. Free and open to the public.
Friday, February 23 OLSS Middle School Open House
Our Lady Star of the Sea School, 90 Alexander St., Solomons 8:30 - 10:30 AM Our Lady Star of the Sea School (OLSS) offers full day and half day preschool and full day academics for kindergarten through 8th grade. A guided tour of the campus begins at the main building of the school. Registration is not required. Administration and teachers will be on hand to answer questions and provide information for interested families. For directions and further information visit www.olsss.org or call 410-326-3171.
Park Place Toastmasters Club
Church of the Ascension, 21641 Great Mills Rd., Lexington Park 12:00 - 1:00 PM A place where you develop and grow—both personally and professionally. Join a community of learners, and in Toastmasters meetings learn by doing. Find out how we can help you develop your speaking, listening, and leadership skills in a nonthreatening environment!
Lenten Dinner Third District Optimist
St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds, 42455 Fairgrounds Rd., Leonardtown 4:00 - 7:00 PM Drive through seafood dinner $10, menu includes for each dinner fish, shrimp, clam strips, fries, hush puppies and apple sauce. No substitutions. Benefit 4H archery. Contact Tony 301-904-0799. criscokid41@yahoo.com.
Lenten Seafood Dinner
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 22375 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park 4:30 - 7:00 PM Give the kitchen a break and treat the family to a seafood dinner. Fried rockfish, baked haddock, fried oysters, or shrimp Po’Boy sub.Each entrée comes with two sides: coleslaw, green beans, or
fries. Kid meals, desserts, and soft drinks, also available. Fridays during Lent. 301-863-8144.
Drive Thru Fish Dinner
21804 Colton’s Point Road, Avenue Every Friday through March 23. The 7th District Optimist Club is having drivethru fish dinner to support the kids of the St. Mary’s County. Beer battered cod, steak fries, cole slaw and a roll for $11. Any questions please email: jesse_rollins@outlook.com. Come support friends of youth.
Wine Meet & Greet
Port of Leonardtown Winery, 23190 Newtowne Neck Rd, Leonardtown 6:00 - 8:00 PM Join Patuxent Tidewater Land Trust to socialize, drink local wines and learn more about saving land! New Board Member David Moulton will discuss the connections between land conservation and birds in St. Mary’s County. RSVP to annabelleharvey17@gmail.com. Questions? 301-862-3421.
PFLAG Mardis Gras Mixer
Mad Moon Cafe & Lounge, 22576 MacArthur Blvd., #336, California 6:00 - 9:00 PM Celebrate and socialize with SoMD LGBTQIA, friends & family. This is an all age event with live music, Complimentary Mardis Gras Cake. Kids make a Mardis Gras Mask craft. Hear what PFLAG Leonardtown has accomplished and where we are headed. We’ll bring the beads… you bring your friends!
High-Low-Jack-Game Pitch Tournament
Leonardtown VFD, 22733 Lawrence Ave. Doors open 6:15 PM (tournament starts 7:30) Be on time – all tables start at once! $20, bumps $1/partner. Cash bar and food available. Sponsored by the Auxiliary of the Leonardtown VFD. More info, email Jennifer.russell@smeco.
Annie & Mac
Christ Church Parish Hall, 37497 Zach Fowler Rd., Chaptico 7:30 PM (doors open 7:00) Southern Maryland Traditional Music and Dance present a HomeSpun Coffee House featuring Annie & Mac. They’re music is described as old time Americana roots. $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers. Light refreshments will be provided. For more info visit smtmd.org.
Pitch Tournament High-Low-Jack-Game
Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department 22733 Lawrence Ave. 7:30 -10:30 PM (doors open 6:15) Must be on time! All tables have to start at once! $20 registration; bumps $1/partner at your table. Cash bar and food available. Sponsored by the Auxiliary of the LVFD. Info, e-mail Jennifer.russell@smeco.coop.
Celebrate Recovery
Our Father’s House, 45020 Patuxent Beach Rd, California 7:30 - 9:30 PM Free group for adults dealing with any hurt,
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
hangup or habit. If you are dealing with addiction to porn, shopping, food, drugs, gambling, cutting, smoking, alcohol or if you are affected by the addiction of a loved one, come see how working the Celebrate Recovery program can help. Questions? of hCR4u@gmail.com
Saturday, February 24 Women’s Health, Wellness Program
21905 Chancellors Run Rd., Great Mills 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM Sponsored by MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital and St. Mary’s Delicados, Inc., the event includes health screenings; continental breakfast and lunch. educational presentations focusing on health and wellness; and prescription medicine collection from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. Free. Pre-registration is required; call 301-475-6019. Women›s Wellness Workshop Gateau Health & Wellness Center, 23123 Camden Way, California 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Urinary Incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine. There are many causes and the problem is extremely common. As a licensed physical therapist with specialized training in the area of women’s health, Lindsay Lavato has the knowledge, experience and tools to help women decrease and/or eliminate the problem of urinary incontinence.
Health Expo
Mechanicsville Vol. Fire Dept. Social Hall, 28165 Hills Club Road 12:00 - 4:00 PM Live demonstrations.
Spirits Maryland
of
Maryland:
Southern
Bingo Every Saturday
Mother Catherine Academy, 38833 Chaptico Rd., Mechanicsville 6:30 - 10:00 PM Doors open at 5:00. Early Birds start at 6:30. Regular Games start at 7:00. $10 admission (includes one regular book). Call 301-884-3165 for more information. Visit www.mothercatherine.org for Jackpot and Moneyball update.
Sunday, February 25 A Taste of History Bridal Show
Historic St. Mary’s City, Reconstructed State House of 1676, 47418 Old State House Rd. 1:00 - 3:30 PM Newly engaged? Thinking of getting married? Vendors showcase various aspects of a wedding to make your dreams come true! $5 at the door for all unregistered attendees. Call (240) 895-4991 or email MaryB@DigsHistory.org to register, or for more details! www.HSMCdigshistory.org.
Turley Shoot
Mechanicsville Moose Lodge 1:00 - 5:00 PM Sign up starts at 12:30, first round starts at 1:00. Shoot for money and prizes. Info call jimmy 240-417-5767.
Monday, February 26 Free Tax Preparation
Church of the Ascension, 21641 Great Mills Rd., Lexington Park 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM AARP Tax-Aide/IRS certified counselors will provide free tax preparation and electronic filing for low-to moderate-income taxpayers of any age in St Mary’s County, with special consideration for those 60 and older. Taxpayers do not need to be a member of AARP. Additional information is available at: www. smctaxaide.org.
Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, 22156 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park 1:30 - 7:00 PM “Where the Right Stuff Meets the Strong Stuff.” Distilleries from all over the state offer tastings and the opportunity to purchase craft spirits. AdAn Anthropologist’s Journey mission includes full access to the museum, live Cole Cinema, Campus Center on St. Mary’s Colentertainment, light appetizers, and more. Hosted lege Campus by the Maryland Distillers Guild, the St. Mary’s 4:30 - 6:00 PM County Chamber of Commerce, and the St. Mary’s The St. Mary’s College of Maryland AnthropolCounty Division of Tourism. Choose your session: VIP Admission, 1:30-2:00 p.m., General Admission 2:00-4:00 p.m., or VIP Admission 4:30-5:00 p.m., General Admission 5:00-7:00 p.m. $55/VIP, $45/general. Tickets: marylandspirits.org
MCW Pro Wrestling in Hollywood
Hollywood Volunteer Fire Company, 24801 Three Notch Rd., Hollywood 6:30 - 10:30 PM Pro Wrestling returns for “Winter Blast.” Meet and greet at 6:30, live action at 8:00. Featuring WWE Hall of Famers “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan and Sunny, former WWE stars Hornswoggle, Adam Rose, MCW Pro Wrestling Heavyweight champion Joey Mercury, and more. Visit MCWProWrestling. com for ticket and event information. Tickets also available day of, at the door. Show support on Facebook at bit.ly/blast24.
Calendars
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ogy Department will host Laura M. Ahearn for the lecture “Love Letters, Language, and Learning: An Anthropologist’s Journey.” She will ref lect on the path she has traveled as an anthropologist, which began with several years serving in the Peace Corps in Nepal. She will also discuss how one can apply anthropological skills in many different work settings. Free and open to the public.
Mental Health Support Group
Charlotte Hall Library 6:00 - 7:00 PM A support group for citizens with mental health issues including anxiety and depression. This is not a therapy group, but a place where people can gather together and support each other on different issues.
Thursday, March 1 Legacy of Lucille Clifton
Daugherty-Palmer Commons, St. Mary’s College of Maryland campus 7:30 - 9:30 PM The Office of the President presents “Nurturing the Compassionate Community: An Evening to Honor the Legacy of Lucille Clifton.” The event, co-sponsored by the VOICES Reading Series, is free of charge and open to the public. The evening will feature poetry readings and ref lections to honor St. Mary’s College’s former Distinguished Professor of the Humanities Lucille Clifton.
American Legion Post 221 Meeting
21690 Colton Point Rd., Avenue 8:00 - 9:00 PM All active duty personnel and veterans are invited to our monthly meeting. Visit our website at www.alpost221.webs.com/ or e-mail alpost221@ aol.com. Call (301) 884-4071 for more information.
CountyTimes St. Mary’s County ● Calvert County
Do you have something to add to our Community Calendar? Email your event to timescalendar@countytimes.net
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Calendars
The County Times
St. Mary’s Department of Aging Programs and Activities
Thursday, February 22, 2018
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
Legal Assistance Available
The Legal Aid Bureau, Inc. has appointments available on Friday, March 9, to provide free legal assistance to St. Mary’s County residents age 60 and over. Legal services available include landlord tenant disputes, denial of public benefits, advance directives, consumer/ credit problems, etc. Legal Aid cannot prepare wills, power of attorneys, or deed changes. To schedule an appointment call 301-475-4200, ext. *1064.
Seated Tai Chi
The Garvey Senior Activity Center is offering Seated Tai Chi starting Monday, March 5-April 16 at 8:30 a.m. This modified seated version of Tai Chi for Arthritis can be enjoyed by anyone wishing to practice Tai Chi sitting down. People with almost any chronic condition can learn to improve their health and mobility. It is suitable for people who are either unable to walk or are required to be seated e.g. while in flight. Medical studies confirm that Tai Chi for Arthritis relieves pain, reduces fall risk, and improves quality of life. For more information, or to sign up, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
CSM Wellness Clinic at Northern
The College of Southern Maryland’s Nursing Program will provide a free wellness clinic at the Northern Senior Activity Center on Thursday, March 8, from 9-11:30 a.m. Health checks include blood pressure, height and weight, heart rate, and vision. Presentations include topics such as Dehydration, Heart Attack, Balance Problems, Foot Health, and Antibiotics: Why you should take your medicine. Drop-ins are welcome; prior sign up is not required.
St. Patrick’s Day Craft
Bring the luck of the Irish home with a beautiful piece of repurposed wood craft at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Wednesday, March 7, at 10 a.m.! Come join us! The cost for the class and the materials is $10. Call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050 to register.
Senior Companion Presentation
Visit the Garvey Senior Activity Center for a Senior Companion Presentation on Wednesday, March 7, at 1:30 p.m. Since 1974, Senior Companions have made a difference by providing assistance and friendship to adults that have difficulty with daily living tasks, such as shopping or paying their bills. Their assistance helps these adults retain their dignity and remain independent in their homes rather than having to move to more costly institutional care. Opportunities are now available for those seniors 55 and over who would like to volunteer to become a senior companion. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please join us for this presentation to get more information on this wonderful program. To sign up call the receptionist at 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
Healthwatch Presentation
How to Take Your Own Blood Pressure- and Manage It will be presented by Linda Weintraub at the Loffler Senior Activity Center on Thursday, March 8 at 10 a.m. This free workshop is designed to help you understand what the numbers mean and why they are important. Find out when you should be concerned and what you can do to improve those numbers. To sign up call 301-475-4200, ext. *1658, or stop by the reception desk. classes are limited to ages 16 and up. Registration required.
Protecting Your Privacy Online
Microsoft Office: Introduction to PowerPoint Leonardtown Library will hold Microsoft Office: Introduction to PowerPoint on Tuesday, February 27 from 2 – 4 p.m. Learn the basics of creating multimedia presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint. Explore how to animate presentations using various effects. Prerequisite: Basic skills in using the mouse & keyboard. Adult computer
Charlotte Hall library will hold a Protecting Your Privacy Online class on Tuesday, February 27 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Learn about tools you can use to limit what’s shared about you online. Create strong passwords and use free open source software, including browser plug-ins, the Tor browser, and VPNs to help keep your information private. Attendees should be proficient computer users. Registration recommended.
Teen Night: Automotive Jobs Lexington Park Library will hold a special Teen Night event: Automotive
St. Patrick’s Day Party: Gaelic Games & Grub
Do you have the luck of the Irish? Find out at the Northern Senior Activity Center’s St. Patty’s Day event, to be held on Friday, March 9, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.! We will start off with Blarney Bingo followed by a fun lunch of Domin-O’pizza and other pub favorites. This event will feature live entertainment from the phenomenal Tom Delaney who will perform traditional Irish and pub songs along with an ample supply of jokes and stories. Don’t let your luck run out before our money raffle! The suggested ticket cost is $6 and includes the bingo, lunch, and entertainment. Payment is required at the time of signup. To purchase your ticket in advance, please visit the front desk. For more information call 301-4754200, ext. *3101.
St Patrick’s Day Celebration
Get an early start celebrating the luck of the Irish by coming to the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on Tuesday, March 13 from 11a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Loffler Senior Activity Center. Advance tickets are required with a $7 suggested donation. Be sure to wear your green as you enjoy an hour of live Irish music by David Norris during lunch. Lunch will feature our version of pub food- Tossed Salad, Hamburger on a Bun, with Swiss Cheese, Lettuce, Onion & Tomato Slices, Oven Baked Sweet Potato Wedges, Spinach and Peaches. For dessert, enjoy a green sweet treat! There may be a bit of Tom Foolery and shenanigans after the entertainment ends, so bring your sense of humor! A limited number of tickets will be sold, and ticket holders ONLY will be able to have lunch at Loffler on this day. To learn more call 301-475-4200, ext. *1658. Jobs on Thursday, March 1 from 5 -7 p.m. Come get hands-on experience fixing a car. Learn the skills needed to extend the life of your automobile from a local expert. Part of this program will take place outdoors, so dress accordingly. Registration Required. Ages 14-18.
School Age Explorers: Book Fan Mail! Lexington Park Library will hold School Age Explorers: Book Fan Mail! on Friday, March 2 from 2 – 3:30 p.m. Help your child discover the lost art of letter writing! Part storytime, part letter writing primer, this program will teach your child the basics of letter writing and give them a chance to write a letter to some of their favorite children’s
Zumba Gold
Join us at the Garvey Senior Activity Center and dynamic instructor Geno Rothback on Thursdays at 10:45 a.m.! This class is for active older adults who are looking for a modified Zumba® class that recreates the original moves you love at a lower-intensity. The design of the class introduces easy-to-follow Zumba® choreography that focuses on balance, range of motion and coordination. Class focuses on all elements of fitness: cardiovascular, muscular conditioning, flexibility and balance! Geno will have you moving and grooving throughout the class to fun, upbeat music selections. This class is on the fitness card and the cost is $30 for 10 classes. Call 301-4754200, ext. *1050 to learn more.
Senior Bowling League Has Openings
The senior mixed bowling league sponsored by the St. Mary’s County Dept. of Aging & Human Services meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at Esperanza Lanes. Cost is $15 per session, which includes 3 games, shoe rental and ball. This is a non-sanctioned league though there are some regulations to followthe real point is to have fun with other people who are 50 years of age or older. If this is something that appeals to you, call Shellie Graziano at 301-475-4200, ext. *1655. Also, call if you would like to sub for this league and meet the age requirements. Sub fees are paid by league member.
book authors. Authors are busy people so responses are not guaranteed, but having fun at the library certainly is! Recommended for ages 6-10, registration required.
Computer Basics 3: Introduction to the Internet Charlotte Hall Library will hold Computer Basics 3: Introduction to the Internet on Wednesday, March 7 from 2 – 4 p.m. Part three of a four-part series. Learn terminology, basic features, and how to navigate the Internet. Pick up tips on browsing and evaluating websites in order to make your browsing experience more successful. Adult computer classes are limited to ages 16 and up. Registration required.
Thursday, February 22, 2018
The County Times
Sports
25
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Sports
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Maryland Deer Harvest Great Mills Wins Figures Released SMAC Campionship
Point Guard, Robert Alexander Gaskin, plays tight offense. Photo by Ceandra Scott.
Photo from MD DNR by Paul Kane
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has announced that hunters harvested 86,542 deer during the combined archery, firearms and muzzleloader seasons, from Sept. 8, 2017, through Jan. 31, 2018. The harvest exceeded the 20162017 total by more than 1,000 deer. Included in the statewide total were 7,204 deer taken on Sundays. In Calvert County the total harvest wad 1.688, a 9.6 percent decline from the previous year. In St. Mary’s, the total harvest was 2,692, a 3.1 percent increase. “Sunday hunting continues to be an important component in managing Maryland’s deer population,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “Nearly 10 percent of the total harvest occurred on Sundays, a remarkable number given the limited number of Sunday hunting days available, and the fact that three of our highest deer density counties did not have Sunday hunting opportunities.” The 2017-2018 statewide har-
vest included: 30,247 antlered and 53,135 antlerless white-tailed deer; and 1,423 antlered and 1,737 antlerless sika deer. The harvest in deer management Region A (Western Maryland) increased 18 percent, from 8,490 deer last year to 10,003 this year. Hunters in these counties reported 6,237 antlered and 3,766 antlerless deer. Hunters in Region B (the remainder of the state) harvested 76,539 deer, nearly the same as last year’s harvest of 76,703. A total of 25,433 antlered and 51,106 antlerless deer were reported in this region. Frederick County led the harvest totals again this year with 7,354 deer, followed by Carroll County with 5,896 and Baltimore County at 5,559. Garrett and Montgomery counties rounded out the top five with 5,349 and 4,783 deer, respectively.
Photo by Ceandra Scott.
Press Release from MD DNR Photo by Ceandra Scott.
n u F & GA M E
Thursday, February 22, 2018
The County Times
S
Sports
Guess Who?
I am an actress born in Florida on March 5, 1974. Before earning my big break, I starred in many B movies and sold food at the mall. I gained mainstream recognition for movies like “Training Day” and “Girl in Progress.”
53. Indicating silence 55. Brown and gray rail 56. Nocturnal insects 58. Make an incision 59. Norwegian village 60. Commercial 61. Criminal 64. Northeast 65. Clouds of gas and dust in outer space 67. Mysterious things 69. One who won’t be forgotten 70. Starts over
CLUES DOWN 1. Straighten 2. Gives medical advice (abbr.) 3. Touts 4. One’s job 5. Afflict in mind or body 6. Proofed 7. Capital of Angola 8. Social insect living in organized colonies 9. Ones who are financially compensated 10. Jacket 11. Electron volt 12. Tuned 13. Syrian leader
15. Reduces 18. Congress’ investigative arm 21. Make uneasy 24. A fake 26. Any thick messy substance 27. Goad 30. Titan 32. Continental Congress delegate for NY 35. Peyton’s younger brother 37. Fiddler crab 38. Delivers the mail 39. Liliaceous plant 42. Mountain Time 43. Where wrestlers work 46. Secured 47. Dog breed 49. Where rockers perform 50. Nostrils 52. Express doubt 54. Pointer 55. Slang for sergeant 57. Selling at specially reduced prices 59. Six (Spanish) 62. Holds nonperishables 63. Between northeast and east 66. Exist 68. Meitnerium
Guess Who? Eva Mendes
Last Week’s
Puzzle Solutions
CLUES ACROSS 1. Shaded inner regions 7. Overlapping part of a garment 13. Type of smartphone 14. Fall apart 16. Football’s big game (abbr.) 17. Crocodilian reptile 19. Of I 20. Swamp plant 22. Sun can help you get one 23. Hops, __ and jumps 25. Cuckoos 26. Small cavities in rocks 28. American traitor 29. Tooth caregiver 30. Popular fish 31. Ottoman military leader 33. Anger 34. Fish of the mackerel family 36. Some people can’t eat it 38. Amer. Revolutionary War battle 40. Misleading ads 41. Atomic number 76 43. A type of castle security 44. Sunscreen rating 45. Very fast airplane 47. Vigor 48. 007’s creator 51. __ and that
Kid'S Corner
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Contributing Writers
The County Times
“Different Journeys” People take different spiritual journeys with their chosen faith. And there are so many ways to have spiritual or life journeys whether you are in a formal religion or not. Since my husband and I are Episcopalians, we try to give up or take on something new during the 40 days of Lent each year. Our priest said during a sermon, that some think of Lent as our second chance to work on those New Year’s resolutions. This will probably be my first chance, since my muddled mind was a little fuzzy on what to pick for a resolution in January. I get so overwhelmed with all my bad habits and projects that it was hard to choose. I settled on getting back into a rhythm again in
my God Spot in our paths. It seemed that giving up my bad habit once again of hot, strong morning tea with lots of cream and sugar was not working. The giving up chocolate thing didn’t seem to pan out either once my husband brought home two boxes of Thin Mint Girl Scout cookies – my only true chocolate or cookie weakness. I won’t go into the details, but I am finally out of the coma, and my esophagus is no longer numb from that cooling minty feeling. What I found I needed (need) is to spend some actual quality time in the God Spot without distracting myself with a million other thoughts. Some days, I was just telling God to enjoy the day he hath made, but not really talking to him about what was on my mind. There are times when it is easier for me to look up and think about or talk to my parents, and I believe that is okay too. I haven’t found any rules anywhere yet on how to find the center of your soul and reach in for comfort or grounding, so it is whatever works for that day. It gets me through those unsettling days where I just feel like I want to cry all day and can’t figure out why. Those days I really think are from watching the news. When I was young and said I want to cry and can’t figure out why, my accommodating mother would say the time-honored statement of: “I can give you something to cry about.” There was usually something I needed a good smacking for to justify it. My husband surprised me by his choice of a Lenten journey, because we both knew that the giving up chocolate thing was definitely NOT going to work for him; the chocolate fiend. He stated that he was going to be really nice to me for 40 days. Sounds easy right? Who wouldn’t want to be nice to me. And why wouldn’t a retired volunteer and Federal Firefighter, jock, and really strong guy want to be a gentle soul when I start babbling on about all the great ideas I have or snippets from conversations from people I meet all over Southern Maryland that he has no clue who they are? I asked him if that meant he was going to listen to all I said without cutting me off to get to the point, or interrupting to find out who I am talking about, or the worst - rolling his eyes, and sometimes sticking his fingers in his ears and going “nananananananananana” while I am telling him something I believe is of vital importance. He said a somewhat shaky, “Yes”. Hmmm…I could push this, and I did. “Okay, does that mean you won’t get impatient with me or argue with me too? Now this is where things started to turn into a battle like with the House and Senate. My husband started adding amendments to his original statement. He said he would have to do all those things if it was to stop ME from starting an argument. “Me? What, are you kidding, you start all the arguments, I try NOT to argue……………………………..” How long do you think my husband’s Lenten journey lasted? Let’s just say things are back to normal in this house, and maybe we will try giving “the giving up chocolate thing” another go. To each new day’s adventure, Shelby Please send your comments or ideas to: shelbys.wandertings@yahoo.com or find me on facebook
Thursday, February 22, 2018
The American Idea
My thoughts are scattered. I’m completely out of rhythm. The NFL isn’t gone completely, but it’s napping. Months remain before the start of the NBA and NHL playoffs. Baseball’s spring training has yet to begin. The madness that college basketball injects into March is a month away. The next tennis major is the French Open…in May. Tiger Woods is playing again, but he’s flirting with the cut line, not the leaderboard. That would be concerning if The Master’s, like apparently everything else of consequence in sports, wasn’t weeks (at least) into the future. I am, like most sports fans, wandering and hopelessly lost in the midwinter’s dark and lifeless forest. A voice from the beyond: What about the Olympics? Me: “The what? Oh yeah, riiiiight.” That’s unfair sarcasm. It’s just that, well, the Winter Games are, I think, a peculiar oddity for most Americans. The Summer Olympics are more relatable. Every high school has a track, a volleyball court and a soccer team. Backyards are routinely adorned with a basketball hoop. Neighborhoods have community centers with tennis courts, swimming pools and golf courses. Who has access to a ski jump, frozen halfpipe or a luge course? How many people own a curling stone? Raise your hand if you’ve landed a triple axel. Nobody? Wait, there’s one hand up in the back. Filthy liar. Nevertheless, the Olympics always matter – both for national pride and, inevitably, political maneuvering. Baby boomers experienced Mexico City in 1968 and Montreal in 1976. As a member of Generation-X, the first Olympics I remember, the 1980 Winter Games at Lake Placid, New York, produced the greatest moment in American sports history – the United States Hockey Team’s “Miracle on Ice.” It mattered, and remains so significant, because a ragtag bunch of American college kids beat the Soviet Union’s best. It was Rocky v. Drago or, more consequentially, democracy v. communism on ice. The sports-politics Olympic collision continued with the American boycott of the 1980 Moscow Summer Games. The Soviets returned the favor by skipping the 1984 Summer Games in Los Angeles. The Cold War was chilly indeed. And after a brief thaw, it feels like the forecast for Russian-American relations may be ominous again, or at least it should be, particularly by those who have sworn to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” Millennials were introduced to the undeniable connection between the Olympics and politics this year when, during the Opening Ceremonies, Vice President Mike Pence sat in protest and refused to acknowledge the presence of North Korean leader Kim Jung Un’s sister, all while North and South Korean athletes walked in unison. At least Pence, the dedicated athletic antagonist that he is, stayed for the Opening Ceremonies and didn’t walk out, as he did in protest of the anthem protests before a Colts game last fall. And hey, North Korea showed up for these South Korean hosted Olympics, unlike the pass it took on the 1988 Seoul Summer Games. What amazing progress we are making! Viva la humankind. Errr… The point: politicians, of all persuasions and ideologies, have consistently used the Olympics and, more broadly, sports, as a platform to further a cause. Athletes have a decorated record of returning the favor, particularly during times of national and global unrest – which we are unquestionably experiencing today. But there is an emboldened minority displeased with the latest, proud and passionate collection of athletes seeking political change. Just stick to sports, the say. In other words, be less trouble, less human. Recently, Fox News anchor Laura Ingraham served as an inflammatory mouthpiece for those put off by politically responsible athletes when she commanded LeBron James to “shut up and dribble.” Ahhh yes…’tis the season for obnoxious demands instead of meaningful conversations. Unfortunately for Ingraham and her ilk, the fist shaking will not net the desired effect. Nor should it. What this is, at its heart, is not an issue with athletes flexing political muscles, but rather a dangerous intolerance of diversity of thought. When disagreements no longer prompt curious, respectful dialogue, a little part of the great idea that is America dies. Send comments to RonaldGuyJr@gmail.com
The County Times
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Dear Editor:
Letters to the Editor
Guns Aren’t The Problem
It’s virtually certain that many will use the school shooting in Florida to further their respective agendas. On center stage will be the controversy about gun control. Unfortunately guns aren’t the problem, people are. We have had guns in our society since Wyatt Erp and Buffalo Bill were on the front pages. In my old neighborhood, an ethnic inner city community in New York, I bet three of every five apartments had a gun stashed someplace and it was never used. We also had most of the vices we have today, alcohol, bullying, infidelity, unemployment, drugs (not the same types or as abundant,) ethnic rivalry and the list can go on. One thing we did have in far greater supply than we have today is what I call Christian values. These values were not unique to those who fol-
lowed the teachings of Jesus Christ but were equally shared by other groups who had religious rituals not considered Christian. Beyond my neighborhood, where most of the names had prefixes of, “O”, “Mc”, or “Mac”, were other minority groups, who referred to us as Mics or Paddys. There were other labels for them including Spics, Guineas, Pollocks, Mockies and an assortment of other terms of endearment. For no good reason we didn’t like each other but those basic values were shared by everyone. Unfortunately, over the past 30 or more years we have eroded those values and now scratch our heads asking how did we get here ? I don’t know of anyone who is pleased with the present status of our country and when we really decide to do something about it we’ll need another 20 years to rid ourselves of those who penned the laws and made judicial
decisions that unraveled what our forefathers put in place and we lived by for over 200 years when our country stood tall as compared to the rest of the world. You may differ as to the reasons why we have reached new lows, evidenced by the multiple indiscriminate mass shootings in today’s society, but it is undeniable that those basic values have been systematically dismantled, usually at the behest of someone who claimed they were restricted or offended by what had served us well for more years than I can remember. As an up and coming juvenile delinquent I frequently got a sharp pain across my butt, an ear twisted or a dope slap from Mr. O’ Callahan, Mrs. McGreavy or Mr. Sullivan, accompanied by, “if you do that again I’ll tell your parents”, which was a fate worse than death. If my parents did find out I would get some
Attitude
To the Editor: Groaning under the awful pain and disgrace of another school shooting, America continues to reel to and fro clumsily in ascertaining just what to do about it all. Congress will again confer and numerous suggestions will result, some heard repeatedly over and over again, i.e., do away with the guns. It’s the guns! Soon liberal gasbags and leftist controlled media will manage to blame Republicans even as they in-turn collectively pursue blaming President Trump and his policies. It’s Trump’s fault, dude... Yes, it is guns employed in school shootings, guns utilized in the hands of those with hate in their hearts. And guns be damned, such hate will manifest itself towards destruction in one form or another. If not guns, knives, or bombs, if not bombs, trucks aimed at unsuspecting peoples or some other clever yet effective means of killing and maiming the innocent. Such are
Publisher Associate Publisher
characteristics of those with malice towards everyone. Law enforcement, serving as the professional timely hands-on authority, will offer the best possible solution(s) in separating bad guys from their intended unsuspecting victims. I herewith submit one immediate recommendation easily fulfilled and at very minimal cost. That being taxpayer funding of sidearms at the ready of fully trained teachers, principals et al. This is doable and will nicely stand in the gap till attitudes towards life, in general, is positively influenced, taking some time to effect. Further, ignore PC and its associated accusatory implications. It’s far better to err on the side of caution. If noting someone/something out of line report it ASAP. Moreover, begin instructing America’s youth on the value of life being in who we are as a people. And how do we begin such attitude adjustment? We start in exposing abortion for just exactly what it is, barbaric killing of
unwanted life. The willful monstrous destruction of unborn life is communicated as just one of those things that happens regularly and people hear of it to the point of numbness. All the while in the understanding of gullible youth, by example, life is shown to be cheap, essentially nothing. Such attitude in-turn serves to lessen or eliminate possible inward guilt. And how can American children begin to have their impressionable minds persuaded that life is valuable? Let this nation begin respecting life via discontinuance of taxpayer funded abortion. That’s how. Train our kids in school regarding the origin of life in the womb and support the sanctity of life as God Almighty ordained it. If the ACLU cries foul, tell them to pound sand as they don’t stop prayers and references to the Almighty in the aftermath of school shootings. People are found praying everywhere in and out of the schoolhouse. The immediate taxpayer defunding of Planned Parenthood would be a great start in begin-
Thomas McKay
The St. Mary’s County Times is a weekly newspaper providing news and information for
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ning to teach our youth that America regards and supports life. And with said funding directed to non-abortive full-service women’s health care facilities, America shows her youth life matters... Capital crimes merit capital punishment. Reinstitution of the death penalty in timely fashion for those convicted of murder would further serve as a strong deterrent. One considering defying the law and going ballistic yet recognizing his fateful end in the electric chair will reconsider the matter. And to those who maintain such will not make a difference, I submit, try it and let statistics then speak for themselves. Admittedly, however, such will not stop religious zealots bent on jihad which is an altogether different matter in need of being subjected to truth... So, these are my recommendations. What are yours? Chester M. Seaborn Mechanicsville, MD
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additional incentives to clean up my act. In today’s world it would be child abuse but yet just about everyone grew up to be hard working, church going, family folks that contributed positively to society and many served in the military to preserve the values they were taught to respect. Gun violence was just about nonexistent in spite of the fact that you could illegally buy a gun for about $10.00 dollars in the fall and sell it for $30.00 in the spring. If you couldn’t afford that you could make a gun from a car antenna, a slide bolt properly filed, some rubber bands and a piece of wood. It was only 22 caliber but with practice you could hit a tree or a tin can which is about all they were used for and we never had a school shooting. Something to think about if you really want things to change! Sincerely, David A. Ryan
stands every Thursday. The paper is published by Southern Maryland Publishing Company,
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To be considered for publication, articles and letters to the editor submitted must include the 4 p.m. on the Monday prior to our Thursday publication to ensure placement for that week. 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.
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Thursday, February 22, 2018
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