2018-03-29 St. Mary's County Times by Southern Maryland Online

The County Times

Thursday, March 29, 2018

County Times

Thursday, March 29, 2018

www.countytimes.somd.com

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IN LOCAL COMMUNITY RALLIES FOR PEACE IN COPS & COURTS TWO CHILDREN PERISH IN LOVEVILLE FIRE IN EDUCATION COLLEGE FORGES STEM AGREEMENT

PHOTO BY CEANDRA SCOTT

Stuffed Hams, St. Mary’s Heritage

The County Times

ON THE COVER: AGGIE TINSLEY

CONTENTS

“

Local News 3 Cops & Courts 11 In Our Community 12 Feature 18 Obituaries 20 Education 22 Senior Calendar 23 Library Calendar 23 Community Calendar 24 Sports 26 Contributing Writers 27 Entertainment 28 Business Directory 30

LOCAL

Thursday, March 29, 2018

”

“WE’RE WAITING TO SEE HOW THINGS TURN OUT IN CONFERENCE COMMITTEE OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS.” —SMHEC BOARD OF GOVERNOR’S CHAIR JOE ANDERSON ON RESTORING FUNDING TO THE PROPOSED RESEARCH BUILDING.

In Local Page 4

In Cops & Court Page 11

In Community Page 12

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The County Times

Local News

Peace Rally Was Also Call to Action

Photo by Ceandra Scott

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

As hundreds gathered to rally for peace and honor the families of victims of the shooting at Great Mills High School Sunday some there wanted to ensure that the spirit captured at Chancellors Run Park did not diminish. “I think it was a beginning point,” said LaKer Barber, a member of Dominion Apostolic Ministries in

Photo by Ceandra Scott

Lexington Park. “If you want action, you rally the troops.” Barber said the peace rally, which also honored first responders and helped begin the healing process following the death of 16-year-old Jaelynn Willey March 22, was a chance for the community to take a hard look at a range of issues from depression and mental illness in young people to gun laws. “The pivotal thing now is what happens next,” Barber said. “It’s one thing to say we’ve got to get these guns off the streets but there’s more to that.” It started with citizens learning more about the debates over issues and educating themselves about the law regarding guns, background checks and mental illness. Willey was shot and killed by one of her classmates, Austin Wyatt Rollins, with a handgun the shooter’s father legally owned. Sheriff’s office investigators believe the shooting was connected in some way to a relationship once shared between Rollins and Willey. Sheriff’s investigators now say that Rollins shot Willey in the head just before classes were to begin March 20. Rollins first shot also hit Desmond Barnes, 14, in the leg. After the first shot, Dfc. Blaine Gaskill, the school resource officer immediately responded and as he confronted Rollins, the 17-year-old shooter shot himself in the head. Gaskill fired almost simultaneously striking Rollins firearm, a Glock 17 9mm pistol. Offering more counseling and mental health services to young people was key, Barber said. “Some of these kids are suffering from so many things,” she said. “If he [Rollins] had someone to talk to would it have happened differently? “We don’t know, we will never know.” Whatever attendees at the rally thought about the issues, they were all there to support the Great Mills High School community and the community at large

after a time of crisis. “It brought a time of encouragement to bring about healing,” Barber said. “I think that was needed… the community coming together.” Zenobia Dyson, mother of a Great Mills High School graduate and a local poet, said the peace rally accomplished its mission. “To see the community come together, it was effective,” Dyson told The County Times. “We all showed support to the families. “A lot of love was shown that day.” It was a day when the community, no matter their politics or beliefs, focused on victims and supporting them, Dyson said. “The students saw we were behind them,” said Dyson. “There was no one pointing fingers, there was no one casting blame.” Police, fire and rescue personnel were singled out for particular praise by the crowd as they walked out among them to join in the rally. “It gave me a new perspective on our community,” Dyson said. “We need these types of people in this world. “They’re out there everyday trying to save a life.” Dyson said she had not seen such unity in the community in a long time. “That day we were all the same,” she said. “All our hearts were broken. “It was phenomenal to me.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

Photo by Ceandra Scott

The County Times

Local News

Thursday, March 29, 2018

Third Building, SMHEC Merger on Hold Some Founders Oppose Governance Change By Guy Leonard & Dick Myers Staff Writers

Sen. President Mike Miller and District 29 Sen. Steve Waugh

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Local elected leaders say they are still trying to retain some kind of funding for the new research building at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center (SMHEC) in the state’s capital construction budget, but time is running out. “They’re trying for a pre-authorization of $10 million to keep it in the capital budget,” said Del. Deb Rey (RDist.29) about the recent actions of the House of Delegates Appropriations Committee. However, Rey said the project was essentially on “life support.” She said the $10 million, if successfully inserted into the budget, could act as a place holder for the long-anticipated project that would allow the Board of Public Works to authorize construction. Sen. Steve Waugh said that Senate President Thomas V (R. Dist. 29). “Mike” Miller has stepped into the issue, including the legislation that would authorize the University System of Maryland to take over operations at the higher education center. “The building and the merger are both being held up by Sen. Miller,” Waugh said Tuesday. “The issues are linked, and he wants both resolved together.” Waugh later said Miller had “kicked” the project out for another year. The bill to merge the two institutions passed the House by a 135-0 vote March 17 and started in the Senate March 19. The original amount to begin construction was $28.4 million but that was pulled from the capital budget by a Senate committee at the behest of a report from the Department of Legislative Services. That report showed that declining enrollment at the higher education center meant that it was unlikely it could support an even greater commitment by the University System of Maryland. “Due to concerns that the justification for the project does not support the scope of the project, the Department of Legislative Services recommends deleting the appropriation for

the project,” the report reads. “ In addition, USMO should submit a report reevaluating the project and include an assessment of the current and planned program offerings and how programs will meet the workforce demands of the region.” Joe Anderson, head of the board of governors for the higher education center, said it may take more time but he believed the research center would be built someday. “We’re waiting to see how things turn out in conference committee over the next few days,” Anderson told The County Times. “Everybody in the community has gotten behind this project. “This is going to be a transformational project for our community. Three of the founders of SMHEC in recent weeks have launched a campaign to derail the University of Maryland takeover and spoke that opinion at the House hearing in Annapolis. Gary Hodge, who was executive director of the Tri-County Council during the creation of SMHEC, said in a prepared statement: “Why should the state repeal an independent, selfgoverning, locally-accountable, responsive model of governance that has a proven track record of exceptional performance that has benefited thousands of Southern Marylanders for nearly a quarter century?” Bob Randall the SMHEC board’s first chairman and Bob Parkinson, a board member, worry that the University of Maryland takeover will reduce the resolve of other institutions to provide offerings, as they have historically done. Randall, in his testimony to the House committee, said, “Why is this being done? There has been little forthright public dialogue specifically regarding the loss of center independence.’ All three believe the change in governance should be delayed for more study. Parkinson said in his House testimony “Why now? If this bill were delayed there is nothing in the literature that will stop the third building from breaking ground this summer.” That is except for possibly the legislature. It is also unclear whether the University of Maryland will want to take over SMHEC if they fail in their quest for the third building for research. Waugh told The County Times he has always felt the two bills were interconnected. guyleonard@countytimes.net and dickmyers@countytimes.net

The County Times

Thursday, March 29, 2018

Local News

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Local News

The County Times

Thursday, March 29, 2018

The County Times

Local News

Planners Approve Hollywood Winegardner Auto Site

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Opponents Say They were Misled About Traffic Study

By Dick Myers Editor

The St. Mary’s County Planning Commission has given the go-ahead for the new Winegardner auto dealership on Route 235 in Hollywood. The planners, by a 5-2 vote approved the concept site plan for the 29,969 square-foot new-car dealership and service center on 7.76 acres of the overall 22-acre site at the Route 245/Sotterley Road intersection with Route 235. The Chevrolet and GMC car dealership will relocate from Leonardtown where under its former Bell Motor Company banner it had bene located since 1939 (they were the country’s second oldest auto dealer when they went out of business, having been established in 1923 in Pearson where the Patuxent River Naval Air Station is now located.) Commission Vice Chairman Joseph VanKirk was chairing the meeting in the absence of chairman Howard Thompson, who recused himself. VanKirk and member Hal Willard voted against the approval. The car dealership proposal had been attached to the hip with the adjacent commercial center since the controversial center was presented separately to the planning commission more than two years ago; the planners denied it largely over traffic issues. That denial was appealed by the developer to the Board of Appeals, which overturned the denial. Director of Land Use and Growth Management Bill Hunt said the appeals board decision was the effective approval of the commercial centers site plan for 13 acres of the overall 22-acre property. But that nine acres for the auto dealer was always conspicuously present on the plan. The planning commission original traffic concerns remain to this day as residents reiterated them at the March 26 hearing on the car dealership. The March 26 approval is contingent on the two parcels being subdivided. The plan calls for the access to the car dealership to be through the commercial center property. Three access points have been approved: Route 235, Sotterley Road and Old Route 235. Those accesses will have to be constructed before construction can begin on the car dealership A group of Hollywood residents appealed the appeals board decision and a visiting judge in St. Mary’s County Circuit Court upheld that decision. According to Paul Bennett, one of the citizens filing suit, the group was prepared to appeal the court decision to a higher court when a letter was circulated on May 22, 2017. That letter, penned by Hunt after a meeting in Annapolis between county and State Highway Administration (SHA) staff, concluded, “The February 2016 TIS (Traffic Impact Study) was not accurate because the access point from MD 235 across from the (Hollywood) Fire Depart-

ment was not included. I will not be able to make a finding regarding APF (Adequate Public Facilities) for the roads that will be impacted by the project until an accurate TIS has been prepared and reviewed b SHA.” Hunt said he reached that conclusion after talking to the SHA folks, who told him they would not have approved it if the two parts of the property were under one ownership, which they were. Bennett told The County Times that the citizen group decided not to appeal the circuit court decision to the Maryland Court of Special Appeals based on the call for a new traffic study, which is what they wanted. Hunt told the planning commission that the May 22, 2017 letter was superseded by a letter from Maryland Secretary of Transportation Peter Rahm dated Jan. 29, 2018. In that letter Rahn said the state would review an updated traffic study if the county required it. Hunt referred The County Times to St. Mary’s County Engineer John Groeger to explain why that did not open the door for a new study. Groeger said the 235 and 245/Sotterley Road intersection would still be at an acceptable level of service after both the Hollywood Commercial Center and the Winegardner projects based on the information supplied in an updated study that just added the trip counts for the auto dealership (about 900 daily). Based on that there was no need for a new study, he said. That’s the same thing that Groeger said in a letter dated March 31, 2017 as part of the comments for the county’s technical review of the auto dealership. Throughout the entire March 26 planning commission meeting, member Hal Willard pressed the opinion that the Route 235 entrance/exit should be at the firehouse crossover instead of farther south. Developer Attorney Chris Longmore countered that putting the entrance there would sever the auto dealership property and make the traffic flow on the property worse. VanKirk also expressed concern about a proposed acceleration/deceleration lane along the entire Route 235 length. Several speakers expressed concern about the conflicting traffic moves created by that lane. “We think they could have done a better job on this plan,” Mike Thompson testified. Several speakers did support the Winegardner family and contributions to the community, including Nick Ferrante of Nicks of Clinton and Gary Bell, formerly of his family’s business and who now works for Winegardner. Even the opponents had praise for the family. The Hollywood citizens have retained a lawyer and are pondering whether to appeal the planning commission decision. “We are going to weigh it,” Bennett said. dickmyers@countytimes.net

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Sheriff’s deputies, state troopers and State Highway Administration crews will be out in force today and Friday to manage traffic for the prayer vigil and funeral services for Jaelynn Willey, 16, who died as a result of the shooting at Great Mills High School last week. Services on both days will be held at the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department on Three Notch Road. Visitation will take place from 2p.m. to 7p.m. today, with prayer services interspersed at 3p.m. L The funeral service will take place at 10a.m. Friday. I Visitation is open to the public who wish to pay their respects, according S Jaelynn Willey to Cpl. Julie Yingling, sheriff’s office T spokesperson, but the funeral will be open only to family and friends. phones and cameras are prohibited at either event, she said. I Cell “We’ve heard numbers from in the hundreds to 1,000 will attend,” Yingling said. N Capt. Steve Hall, commander of the sheriff’s office Special Operations Division, said all attendees would have to park in the upper parking lot of the firehouse on G either day. warned that traffic conditions would be difficult and that anyone not attending P theHeservices should avoid the area. “We expect it to be filled to capacity,” Hall said. R

I guyleonard@countytimes.net C E : $ 2 By Guy Leonard 1 Staff Writer 9 The finalized county budget for fiscal 2019 going to public hearing has an extra $1.4 million in it for both teacher and county employee salary increases and no cuts , to the property tax rate. overall operating budget comes in at $226.8 million. 9 The The most debate at the March 22 Commissioners of St. Mary’s County meeting 0 took place over the request for $1.5 million from the public schools system to fulfill a negotiated agreement with teachers and administrators unions. 0 A compromise motion made by Commissioner Todd Morgan won out over one

Budget Includes More Funding For Teacher Salaries

from Commissioner Mike Hewitt. Morgan’s plan was to take $700,000 from the sheriff’s budget and use it to fund the negotiated agreements and take about $633,000 from the commissioners’ public hearing reserve and received funds from the State Department of Assessments and Taxation and use that money to fund step increases for other county employees. Morgan said calls to use some of he $30 million in fund balances for the county to fund school salaries, which were recurring expenses, were off the table. “Fund balance cannot be used for recurring costs,” Morgan said. “That pot of money is off limits.” Morgan’s compromise won by a 4-to-1 vote, with Hewitt voting in opposition. Hewitt’s plan was to take $1.5 million out of the sheriff’s office increase of $2.5 million and give it directly to the school board. “Given what’s happened this week [the shooting at Great Mills High School] now is not the time to quibble over a small increase to the Board of Education,” Hewitt said. “We’ve been wounded… we need to support these teachers.” Commissioner Tom Jarboe supported Hewitt’s plan but said the eventual compromise was suitable to take to public hearing. “But is it executable,” Jarboe questioned. “I remain cautious about that.” guyleonard@countytimes.net

The County Times

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Chesapeake Bay Foundation President William C. Baker issued the following statement concerning the Congressional spending bill released last night. The legislation fully funds EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Program, NOAA’s BWET program (funding environmental education), as well as speaking to the importance of continuing USGS efforts in support of Bay restoration. For the first time in 10 years, agricultural conservation funding saw no cuts. The bill, which does not include the Goodlatte provision preventing EPA from enforcing the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint pollution limits, still needs to pass both the House and the Senate. “This is a great day for the Chesapeake Bay. Once again, the Chesapeake attracts strong bi-partisan support—a demonstration that clean water is important to all of us! Now it is up to Con-

gress to pass the final budget and the President to sign it. “The Bay is making progress and our legislators know how important it is to keep doing what works, especially when it is grounded in science. “The Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint is a federal/state partnership. It is helping to save the Bay! We see measurable progress in reducing pollution, bringing back crabs, oysters, and fish, and stimulating the economy! The funding provided in this bill will build on that success. “Make no mistake though, the recovery is still fragile—the Bay is far from fully saved! Now is the time to do more, not less. We can ensure clean water for our children and grandchildren.” Press Release from Chesapeake Bay Foundation

Thursday, March 29, 2018

The County Times

Cops & Courts

No Smoke Detectors in Fire That Claimed Two Children’s Lives

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

A house fire in Loveville is being blamed for the death of two small children and the hospitalization of four others, Maryland State Fire Marshals have said.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Two other children in the fire have been hospitalized as have two adult females, according to Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Gregory J. Der, who was at the scene with county sheriff’s office investigators and first responders from the Leonardtown firehouse. There were no smoke detectors in the home, Der said. The family of the two deceased children has started a web page — at the GoFundMe site — to raise money in the wake of the tragedy. “It is with a heavy heart that I am writing this and asking for help for these [two] beautiful children whose lives were cut short by a house fire this morning. Kaleb and Kassidy [Johnson] are my niece and nephew. [Their] mother is in ICU awaiting surgery after trying to battle the fire and save their

St. Mary’s County Sherrif’s Office Missing Juvenile

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the whereabouts of Cesibel Keilin Cambara-Gonzalez. Cambara-Gonzalez was reported missing on March 25, 2018, and was last seen in Silver Spring, Maryland. At this time, no critical factors are known regarding the missing juvenile. Cambara-Gonzalez is believed to be voluntarily in the company of Alfredo Hernandez Martinez. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Cambara-Gonzalez or Alfredo Martinez is asked to contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office at (301) 475-8008. Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at (301) 475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to

“CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment. Police Seek Theft Suspect The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the identity of the person pictured. On February 24, 2018, the individual attempted to leave the Walmart store located on Miramar Way, in California, with a cart full of camping merchandise that had not been purchased. When confronted, the suspect fled the store. Anyone with information on the suspect’s identity is asked to contact DFC. Roszell at (301) 475- 4200 extension *8108 or by email at Rachael.Roszell@ stmarysmd.com. Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at (301) 475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment. —Cpl. Julie Yingling Sheriff’s Office PIO

life,” wrote Steve Topolski, uncle to the two children. “If you can help with any donation amount it will be greatly appreciated, as they have lost everything. The amount raised will go towards the funeral expenses for these beautiful babies and to Kelsey’s medical expenses. I thank each and everyone of you in advance for your help and generosity.” The children in the fire were all very young. “They’re all under the age of six years old,” Der said of the four children’s ages. The children who died were two and three years old. The two adults have been hospitalized at Washington Hospital Center. Investigators report that a neighbor saw the fire and came to aid the occupants; initial reports were that neighbors helped the occupants out of windows.

Fire marshals say the fire was initially discovered by Kelsey Davis, one of the occupants of the home at about 4:39 a.m. Both Davis and Autumn Bowles, one of the owners of the property, were flown out for medical care, as were Bowles two children, aged one year old and two months old. The survivors suffered non-life threatening injuries from the fire, investigators stated. The structure was completely destroyed; two dogs also perished in the blaze. In light of the loss of life, St. Mary’s County government has issued a plea to the public to use smoke detectors in their homes. guyleonard@countytimes.net

In Our Community

The County Times

Thursday, March 29, 2018

Maryland Day Focuses on African-American Life By Dick Myers Editor

It would have been quite a cake. Maryland’s birthday celebration deserved 384 candles to mark the founding of the state on March 25, 1634 when the settlers in the ships the “Ark” and the “Dove’ landed at St. Clements Island in the Potomac River. A short time later they established the first settlement at St. Mary’s City. The state-owned Historic St. Mary’s City was the location for the annual celebration for what is known as Maryland Day. This year’s celebration on Saturday, March 24 was at a different location than normal – the grounds of the Inn at Brome-Howard. St. Mary’s City’s heyday was the 17th Century –the colonial capital had been moved to Annapolis before the end of the century and the town was on its way to virtually disappearing. But people remained in the area and the establishment of St. Mary’s Fe-

i i

male Seminary there gave the area an institution with employees So, Historic St. Mary’s City does tell stories of not just the 17th Century, but also before and after. And, for this year’s Maryland Day, a ribbon was cut for a new exhibit of AfricanAmerican life in the area in the 19 th and 20h centuries. That exhibit is close to the Inn at Brome Howard thus the reason for the special Maryland Day location. Before the ribbon cutting, a ceremo- John Taft Bailey of Lettie Marshall Dent E.S. carried the St. Mary’s County flag. He is the son of Board of ny was held under Education Chair Karin Bailey. an enclosed tent to in 1634 (Southern Maryland weather gave a greeting. brace the crowd from the chilly tem- can be quire unpredictable this tine During the ceremony Maryland peratures outside, a reminder that the if year, as witnessed by last week’s Senate President Mike Miller was early settlers may have faced equally snow). recognized for his long-standing conharsh conditions sailing up the river An integral part of the ceremony tributions to St. Mary’s City. since 1988 has been the bestowing of Then the attendees walked a short the Cross Bottony Award, named af- distance to a partially restored home. ter the Crossland Cross, an element in In the early 1840s most of St. Mary’s the Maryland state f lag. This year’s City was a plantation of Dr. John award went to the Maryland Commis- Brome, who owed 60 African-Amersion on African-American History ican men and women Brome’s house, and Culture (MCAAHC) in recogni- now called the Inn at Brome Howtion of their contributions to the new ard, survives that era along with the exhibit. remnants of one of the slave quarters. The award was presented to According to information provided MCAAHC Executive Director Cha- for the ribbon cutting, “The earliest nel Compton, who was also the key- photograph of it is from the 1880’s note speaker. She asked the audience and shows the duplex adjacent to a how many felt they had been taught single dwelling that has since been the real history of African-American demolished.” contributions and only a smattering The last residents of the home were raised their hands. ” Standing here the family of Solomon and Lily Milconnects us to a history we have been burn who lived there from 1930 to conditioned to ignore,” she said. 1965. The state acquired the buildThe state’s Banneker Douglas ings in 1980. Museum in Baltimore is part of the Excavations around the existing MCAAHC’s responsibilities. Comp- and former buildings were conducted ton urged the attendees to visit the from 1993 ad 2004. The findings led museum. to a doctoral dissertation by Dr. Terry The ceremony also had a somber Brock. His research is the basis for note with the shootings at Great Mills the information provided in the exHigh School and the death of victim hibits within the house. Jaelynn Willey on everyone’s mind. The stabilized structure contains In his invocation, Trinity Episcopal three rooms that show African-AmerChurch Pastor Rev. John Ball asked ican life during the three periods of for a moment of silence for the vic- its habitation. tims and the first responders at the The ribbon cutting was conducted scene. by HSMC Director of Research Dr. Senator Steve Waugh (R: 29 th Henry Miller and was attended by the District) in presenting citations for descendants of the Milburns. Tours Maryland Day said he was not as “lo- of the new Brome Quarter exhibit folquacious” as he normally would have lowed the ribbon cutting. been because of the tragedy. The annual ceremony also features dickmyers@countytimes.net a parade of the f lags of Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore city. A 25th was also included – a ceremonial staff of the Piscataway Conoy Tribe. Tribal chairman, Francis Gray also

Prince Frederick Library ry y March & April Coming to Frederick in May & June Hagerstown July & Aug Westminster Sept & Oct Towson Nov & Dec

Featuring:

Mary ryland y Ammo Boxes,

Mary ryland Belts, Weapons, Excavated Buckles and Original Images of Local Soldiers

Thursday, March 29, 2018

The County Times

In Our Community 13

North End Gallery: Three Bold Women April 3, 2018 through April 29

watercolor since they usually have such strong and vivid color. Though by nature not a daring person, she is able to express a boldness through her art. Rachael Platt: Rachael aims to create one-of-a kind functional and sculptural ceramic artwork that evokes the sacredness of nature, drawing all of her inspiration from mythical woodlands and glazes inspired by healing gemstones. Her work is dedicated to delving into Color can speak volumes. Sometimes the depths of myth and form--she finds color whispers, other times a color inspiration in the treasures of the world might divulge a secret, or invite us to around us--the precious stones that seconversation. Sometimes, color shouts! cret themselves in the rock beneath Ann Preston, Rachael Platt, and Mary our feet, the plant-life that feeds on Ida Rolape are not afraid to shout with that buried possibility, the animals that color, to sing its loudest songs, or to live upon the earth’s surface, and the bravely venture somewhere new. Color dreams that we ascribe to all of these-can be exuberant and joyful... especially the myths that shape us. Rachael hopes to wield the spirit of the earth, seal it in when it’s BOLD! Ann Preston: Color has a great impact fire, and bring only the most magical, on her art. It inspires and dictates what bright, and ethereal pieces to your home. she paints, and helps her to interpret Mary Ida Rolape: Mary Ida Rolape is an object or emotion. People are often entranced with the way light reflects surprised to find that her paintings are through glass. Colors glow. Light spar-

kles from every surface. Every visual angle reveals new reflections. For Rolape, this show represents an exploration of fused glass possibilities. What ties her work together is the vibrancy of color. From the detailed enamel work on “Osprey’s Catch” or the lush colors of “Gathered Flowers” to the swirling depths of “Moody Blues”, colors engulf the viewer in their richness. Visit North End in April to see this very colorful show. Three Bold Women runs from April 3 through April 29, with the reception on April 6 from 5-8 PM during the First Friday celebration. North End Gallery is located at 41652 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown. The North End Gallery is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 AM to 5 PM and from noon to 4 PM on Sundays. For more information please visit www.northendgallery.org or call 301-475-3130.

I run for distance. I also Run for Hospice. What do YOU run for?

“I’ve journeyed to 7 continents in 7 days to run 7 marathons - just to push the limits of mind and body. But there are many reasons to run for Hospice - including perhaps the most epic brunch on earth. But the best reason? All net proceeds help Hospice of St. Mary’s provide care to those facing terminal illness. Not a runner? No worries - many participants do the Fun Walk - a great way to start your own journey.”

Legendary Ultra Runner Michael Wardian 2017 World Marathon Challenge Champion 3X Run for Hospice participant

SATURDAY • APRIL 14 • 2018 • LEONARDTOWN • MD REGISTER AT WWW.RUNFORHOSPICE.ORG RATED ‘ONE OF THE BEST RACES IN THE NATION’

Our sponsors support our community! Call Katy Crowell 301-994-3075 or Jim Dicus 240-925-5423

In Our Community

The County Times

5TH ANNUAL

SPRING CONSIGNMENT

AUCTION APRIL 21st, 2018

STARTING AT 8:30 AM • PREVIEW DAY APRIL 20TH HAYES AUCTION SERVICES • GREEN MANOR FARM

38250 NEW MARKET TURNER RD • MECHANICSVILLE, MD 20659

Thursday, March 29, 2018

The County Times

Thursday, March 29, 2018

In Our Community

St. Mary’s County Arts Council Celebrates Youth Art Month 2018 problem-solving, creativity, observation, planning, and communication development. This year’s theme of “Building Community Through Art” encouraged students to think about how and where they live, the many

The Council for Art Education annually oversees the administration of “Youth Art Month” at a national level with various schools, arts councils, and other organizations hosting related events. The establishment of a special month dedicated to art created by children encourages support for school art programs, recognition of local students, and the promotion of both artistic and life skills through

ways that art creates connections to others, as well as a myriad of other ideas depending on how the students chose to interpret this national theme. Many amazing and impressive submissions were received by St. Mary’s County Arts Council for their annual

Caregivers Conference Set for April 20

The St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services will host the 26th Annual Southern Maryland Caregivers Conference on Friday, April 20 at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center in California, Maryland. Caregivers are encouraged to attend the annual event, which will take place from 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Admission for caregivers is $30. The conference will touch on topics including : Protecting Yourself from Financial Exploitation; Coping with Challenging Behaviors Associated with Dementia; Body Mechanics and Safe Care Giving in the Home; Understanding the Medicare Maze; Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Program; Caregiver Resources for the Southern Maryland Community; Making Sense of Living Wills and Other Advance Directives and Understanding the Maryland MOLST Form; Nutrition and Medications; Late Life Mental Health Disorders; Understanding Medicaid Coverages for the Elderly and Disabled; Building Caregiver Resilience through Proper Nutrition; Hospice, Palliative Care and Bereavement; Taking Care of Your Family: Hospital to Home

and Caring for a Loved One who Never Cared for You. The conference is sponsored by The Geriatrics and Gerontology Education and Research Program, the University of Maryland in Baltimore, the St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services, the Charles County Department of Community Services and the Calvert County Office on Aging. Pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register, contact Cindy Olmsted at 301-934-0128 or email olmstedc@charlescountymd.gov. Interested vendors should contact Rebecca Kessler at 301-4754200, ext. *1061 or email rebecca. kessler@stmarysmd.com. Vendor spaces are limited. Registration is $45 for non-profit organizations and $95 for for-profit organizations. Sponsorships are still being accepted. For caregivers in need of respite services or scholarships to attend the conference, contact Daphne Bennear at 301-475-4200, ext. *1069.

Press Release from St. Mary’s County PIO

contest and exhibit displayed at their new gallery space in Leonardtown. The winners of special recognition were selected by a panel of judges and announced as follows: • 1st Place “Kell and Ruby” by Alizza Damaso of LIFE Academy (homeschool) • 2nd Place “Leonardtown Can Be Found 1,000’s of Miles Away” by Jacob Farren of Leonardtown Middle School • 3rd Place “Kitty Community Creating Art in Maryland” by Heidi Davis of Leonardtown High School St. Mary’s County Arts Council wishes to recognize all of the students who participated, visit www. stmarysartscouncil.com to learn more about upcoming arts related events for all ages. —Nell Elder

Pet of the Week

Meet Sadie!

LOOKING FOR LOVE? You can tell just by looking at my darling face that I’m a real sweetie and I enjoy playing with people. I want to PLEASE everyone I meet! It only takes me a very few minutes to become friends and I have lots of love to give! I’m a 1 year 10 month old female Hound mix. Since I’m young I may do better in a mature home. They say I’ve been PATIENTLY WAITING in the shelter for 32 DAYS. Could you be the MIRACLE I need? PLEASE CHOOSE ME!

And remember, if there is room in the heart, there is room in the house!

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

The County Times

In Our Community

301-690-2192 www.portofleonardtown.com

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

Thursday, March 29, 2018

Leona In Downtown

rdtown

PM 8 M P 5 RIL 6 •

CHECK OUT THE FIRST FRIDAY SPECIALS BARRE • YOGA • PILATES CIRCUIT TRAINING • HIIT

ST. MARY’S COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

22715 WASHINGTON STREET • SUITE #1 • 678-640-2130

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

Uppade to Handma de

Supplies

Classes

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

Leonardtown, MD

301-475-FUZZ (3899)

St. Mary’s

Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

• Long-term care • Rehabilitation services • Respite care

21585 Peabody Street Leonardtown, MD 301-475-8000 www.smnci.org

2 BROKE GIRLS BOUTIQUE

22760 Washington St. 240-210-3998 Purchase any dog, cat, or rescue related 2 Broke Girls apparel (we have lots) Boutique during First Friday and a percentage goes to an animal shelter or rescue organization.

THE HAIR COMPANY

22740 Washington St. • 301-475-5225 30% off all jewelry during First Friday.

To schedule a tour or speak to admissions, please call 301-475-8000 ext.125

MARKETPLACE & COMMUNITY CATALYST Old Field Ma rds e h Coming Soon! Vendor Space Available

Shep

22660 Washington St. • 240-309-4061 Across from Winegardner Motor Co. Join us for a special Opening Reception for a new exhibit featuring the Color & Light Society of Southern Maryland. A non-profit group of visual artists from Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties, their members are dedicated to artistic development and the creation of original works of art. This reception is open to the public and will be held from 5-7 PM. 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.

Call 240-753-3332 22725 Duke Street | Leonardtown | www.shepherdsoldfield.com

SPICE STUDIO

22715 Washington Street Suite #1 • 678-640-2130 Join Taryn Brown at SPICE Studio on 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 500900 calories each hour of WERQ! All dance and fitness abilities welcome. For every client who participates in the 5:15 Hip Hop Barre Class or 6:15 WERQ class, will will donate $1 per client to the local rescue group. To sign up visit: www.somdspice.com

FENWICK STREET USED BOOKS & MUSIC

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, April 6.

GOOD EARTH

41625 Park Ave. 302-438-1629 Orange Creme Dream smoothie for 10% off with the purchase of a pet item. This sale will be from 5-8 pm during the First Friday Event.

NORTH END GALLERY

41652 Fenwick St. • 301-475-3130 Three Bold Women: Color can speak volumes. Sometimes color whispers, other times color shouts. Color can be exuberant and joyful...especially when it’s BOLD! Watercolor artist Ann Preston, ceramic artist Rachael Platt, and glass artist Mary Ida Rolape are not afraid to shout with color in their three-person show at North End Gallery.

The County Times

Thursday, March 29, 2018

Rescue Groups Pet Parade Pet Related Vendors Drum Circle Food Shopping & More

Crazy for Ewe

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

wick Street Fesn ed Books & Musi

FIRST FRIDAY PARTICIPANTS

CRAZY FOR EWE 22725 Washington Street www.crazyforewe.com

PORT OF LEONARDTOWN WINERY 23190 Newtowne Neck Road www.polwinery.com

FENWICK STREET USED BOOKS & MUSIC 41655 Fenwick Street www.fenwickbooks.com

THE GOOD EARTH NATURAL GOODS COMPANY 41675 Park Avenue www.goodearthnaturals.com

OPAL FINE ART 41625 Park Avenue

Fred Ruark will be signing copies of his book, “The Saints Lost Their Way” from 5-7 PM on Friday, April 6!

301-475-2859

www.fenwickbooks.com • 41655A Fenwick Street Downtown Leonardtown

2 BROKE GIRLS BOUTIQUE 22760 Washington Street

THE HAIR COMPANY 22740 Washington Street www.thehaircompany.biz BIG LARRY’S EATERY 22745 Washington Street www.biglarryscomiccafe.com HOME ELEMENTS 22725 Washington Street www.he-furniture.com

ST. MARY’S ARTS COUNCIL 22660 Washington Street www.stmarysartscouncil.com SPICE STUDIO 22715 Washington Street www.somdspice.com WHITE RABBIT 25470 Point Lookout Road

NEW VIEW FIBERWORKS, LLC 22696 Washington Street www.fuzzyfarmersmarket.com

LBA

3 01- 475 -1 6 3 0

41675 Park Avenue, Leonardtown • www.GoodEarthNaturals.com

SHEPHERDS OLD FIELD MARKET 22725 Duke Street www.shepherdsoldfield.com

Leonardtown

Business Association

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

The LBA gratefully acknowledges the generous support of our Platinum Sponsors LEONARDTOWN FIRST FRIDAYS

@LeonardtownFF

LEONARDTOWN FIRST FRIDAYS

fine art & gifts 41652 Fenwick St. Leonardtown MD 20650 www.northendgallery.com l 301-475-3130

Terri Raley

(240) 309-7850 • terri.raley@gmail.com 23063 Three Notch Road, California, MD 20619 www.nmcommercial.com

White Rabbit Children’s Books & Gifts 25470 Point Lookout Road • 301-997-0004 HOURS: Tuesday-Thursday 11AM-6PM • Friday & Saturday 10A-6PM 4 doors down from Salsa’s & Leonardtown Grille

The County Times

Feature

Thursday, March 29, 2018

Stuffed Ham More Than Just Food By Guy Leonard Staff Writer

At 84 years of age, Aggie Tinsley has prepared, stuffed and cooked more stuffed hams than she can count but she thinks they number in the thousands. “I’ve been stuffing hams for 50 years,” Tinsley said. “It’s just something I was brought up with.” The basic recipe is perhaps centuries old, and the dish is unique to St. Mary’s County. It starts with a large, corned ham with the bone removed. It’s then stuffed with a blend of kale, cabbage, onions and spices — including red pepper f lakes — that give it an earthy and spicy f lavor. After it’s trussed with butcher’s twine (without it the boned ham loses its shape), stuffed and covered again in the kale and cabbage stuffing, it’s wrapped in cheesecloth and either boiled or steamed.

The cooking of a ham, which can weigh about 15 pounds fully stuffed, can take between four and five hours. Tinsley remembers when stuffed ham was prepared here in St. Mary’s only during the holidays such as Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. It was also a staple at community gatherings and fundraising events, and continues to be, she said. “Now we have stuffed ham all the time,” Tinsley said. “It used to be you could only get it on the holidays.” Though the dish has possible roots in the culinary traditions of slaves making the most of whatever foods they had, it has been transformed into more of a luxury item despite its down home, country appeal. “Because it’s expensive, it’s like a gourmet dish to them,” Tinsley said. The stuffed hams have become popular across the nation, despite only being prepared and sold from St. Mary’s County. “It’s a huge draw for us,” said Don

Deli Manager Virginia Jordan finishes stuffing a corned ham.

Brock, manager at the McKay’s Fine Food and Pharmacy in Leonardtown. “When I moved here in 2001 I had never heard of it. “I tried it and I got hooked.” Tinsley also works at the McKay’s store. People who have visited St. Mary’s or even lived here and moved away, keep ordering it for the holidays and have it shipped to them. “We ship to Arizona all the time,” Brock said. “We ship all over the continental United States.” Keeping moderate amounts on hand throughout the year, Brock said produc- Stuffing includes kale, cabbage, onion, and spices. tion of stuffed hams But it also provides customers a ramps up heavily for the holidays. show. The demand has remained con“People who love stuffed ham alsistent locally and for orders out of ways love watching us make it,” Paskcounty, Brock said. er said. The recipe for stuffed ham, with Virginia Jordon, deli manager at its powerful spicy f lavors and earthy McKay’s, puts stuffing in both ends vegetables, ensures that it isn’t just of the trussed ham but also makes inplain old ham. cisions on its surface to make way for “People like that hint of spice in even more stuffing. the ham,” Brock said. “It’s good on a “We did 180 hams for Christmas sandwich.” and we did 200 for Thanksgiving,” Just how people enjoy stuffed ham Jordan said. “It’s all non-stop.” varies widely, even the recipe changWhen the hams are up for cooking es given where it’s prepared in the the smell easily wafts far away, she county. said. The farther south it’s prepared, the “You can smell it all the way outmore kale in the stuffing. The farther side,” said Jordan. “It’s a nice holiday north, more cabbage. smell.” “I like it better warm,” said Donna Born and raised in St. Mary’s Pasker, who works preparing them at County, Jordan sees stuffed ham as McKay’s. “But everybody else likes it more than holiday food, but as a way cold.” of preserving a very unique way of Some will eat it on normal sandlife. wich bread, while others love it on “This is part of my heritage,” Jorpotato rolls. dan told The County Times. “I love Some just like it simple and on a history and I love doing things that plate, mounded up with more vegetapreserve our heritage.” ble stuffing. Despite the age of the recipe, the It’s often served as a stand-alone demand for stuffed ham does not dish at major occasions but when its seem to slacken as younger generaordered at a deli it’s often sold in tions raised here take to its strong large quantities to satisfy lingering spicy f lavors and aromas. appetites. “I think it’s really important,” TinsJust cutting the vegetables in ley said of continuing the stuffed ham enough quantities to stuff all the tradition. “It’s a county thing.” hams that have been ordered is a big job. guyleonard@countytimes.net The cabbage, kale and onions come in huge bins to be put through a vegetable processor; they’re then put back into bins with seasonings for the eventual stuffing. The process is very labor intensive, requiring hours in the kitchen.

Thursday, March 29,Community 2018 In Our

Sports

The County Times

2018 SCHEDULE 2018 ORIOLES ORIOLES SEASON SEASON SCHEDULE MARCH/APRIL SUN

MON

1:05

7:10

JULY

TUE

HOME GAME

WED

AWAY GAME 3

8:10

2:10

THU

3:05

6:35

FRI

MIN MASN 5

SAT

7:05

1:05

SUN

MIN MASN 2 7:05

MASN