2012-03-08 The County Times

Greer reshapinG national Defense

Thursday, March 8, 2012 www.soMd.coM

Photo By Frank Marquart

story paGe 16

Thursday, March 8, 2012 2The County Times

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

You’ll Be Glad You Did.

April HancockPO Box 407Bryans Road, MD 20616301-743-9000

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

Auto - Home - Business - LifeLeonardtown, MD • Bus: (301) 475-3151

www.danburris.com

Burris’ Olde Towne Insurance

Gary SimpsonMatt LaidleyKatie Facchina7480 Crain HighwayLa Plata, MD 20646301-934-8437

Free InItIal ConsultatIon

Auto Accidents Workers’ comp

• Divorce/Separation• Support/Custody

• Domestic Violence• Criminal/Traffic

• DWI/MVA HearingsPower of Attorney

• Name Change • Adoption• Wills • Guardianship

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

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

99 Smallwood Dr. Waldorf, MD • 206 Washignton Ave. LaPlata, MD (301) 932-7700 (301) 870-7111Accepting:

Scan this “Times Code” with your smart phone

What’s InsideWhat’s Inside

newsmaker

George Kirby, dressed as children’s literature icon, The Cat in the Hat, reads to students at George Washington Carver Elementary on Thursday, March 2, Dr. Seuss’ birthday.

A group of elected officials and community supporters, including UCAC founder Elmer Brown (black hat), Capt. Benjamin Schevchuk, Sen. Roy Dyson and, a woman instrumental in U.S Colored Troops Memorial’s erection, Idolia Shubrooks, ceremoniously break ground at Lancaster Park on Sunday.

community

Ed Greer, center, is a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, working in the

Pentagon only two links down the chain of command from the top civilian

defense official in the United States, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta.

On The Cover

“I’ve got a set of core values that guides where I need to go … I’ve never been fired in my life, from any job, including working eight years in a tobacco field.”

-Ed Greer

Also Inside4 County News

8 Letters

10 Crime

11 Obits

14 Education

15 Money

16 Feature Story

18 Newsmakers

19 State

20 Community

22 Entertainment Calendar

23 Community Calendar

24 Entertainment

26 Games

27 Columns

28 Senior

30 Sports

31 Health

Weath

er

Watc

h

Thursday, March 8, 20123 The County Times

FRESH SWORDFISH OR TUNA STEAKS

$8.88 LB

22day

sale

USDC INSPECTED

RAW GULF SHRIMP

$8.8816/20 CT

LB

FRESH SALMON OR CATFISH FILLETS

$6.88LB

FRESH TILAPIA OR FLOUNDER FILLETS

$5.88LB

FRESH COD FILLETS

$5.88 LB

FRESH JUMBO SEA SCALLOPS

$9.9810/20 CT LB

PINTFRESH LOCAL

OYSTERS

$8.88$17.88QUART

PT

PASTEURIZED JUMBO LUMP CRAB MEAT

$17.881 LB CONTAINER

LIMIT 4

E-Z PEEL SHRIMP

$5.98$11.96

26/30 CT

2 LB BAG

LB

MCKAY’S 2-DAY SEAFOOD SALE

PASTEURIZED

LUMP CRAB MEAT

$9.981 LB CONTAINER

LIMIT 4

* Quantity rights reserved

* Not responsible

for typographical errors

* No rainchecks

CANADIAN SNOW CRAB

LEG CLUSTERS

$6.98 LBEXTRA LARGE SIZEFriday, March 9th

10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Saturday, March 10th

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday, March 16th10 a.m. - 7 p.m.


Friday, March 23rd10 a.m. - 7 p.m.



Saturday, March 31st10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Prices Good At Sale Location Only!

USDC INSPECTED RAW GULF SHRIMP

$4.8843/50 CT

LB

On The Cover


ews

Three Dead From Mystery Illness in Lusby

OPEN EVERY DAY!

MON-FRI: 6AM - 8PMSAT: 7AM - 2PM • SUN: 8AM - 2PM

LOCATED IN OLD DOWNTOWN LEXINGTON PARK, OUTSIDE GATE 2 PAX NAS

LEXINGTON PARK • 301-862-3544

EVERY TUESDAYSOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN

4 pc. with 2 sidesSOUTHERN FRIED PORK CHOPS

with 2 sides

ST. PATRICK’S DAY LUNCH & DINNER

EVERY FRIDAY1 LB SNOW CRAB LEGS

with salad1/2 LB STEAMED SHRIMP

with salad

MARCH LAMMIN’PECIALS

Linda’s Cafe

THURSDAY NIGHT IS STEAK NIGHT!

LUNCH BEGINS AT 11 AND WE’RE STAYING OPEN LATE!

CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE WITH BOILED RED POTATOES, CARROTS, CORN BREADSHEPPARD’S PIE WITH CORN BREAD OR BISCUITS

BEEF STEW WITH BISCUITSPOTATO SOUP • IRISH SODA BREAD • FISH & CHIPS

LIVE ACOUSTIC MUSIC WITH LARRYFRIDAY, MARCH 16TH

S

Everything Amish

Bedroom Furnishings

American Heirlooms Since 1974

Zimmerman Chair Fine Furniture Makers

www.EverythingAmish.net7700 Leonardtown Road•Hughesville, Maryland 20637 • 1/2 Mile Past Hughesville Bypass

Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

301-932-4164

By Sarah MillerStaff Writer

A press release from the Calvert County Health De-partment, disseminated on somd.com on Tuesday, stated the Health Department is aware of a “cluster of severe re-spiratory illnesses in five Lusby-area [residents], including four members of a Calvert County family, residing approxi-mately a mile south of the power plant.”

The state Office of Chief Medical Examiner is working to determine the cause of the illness, the heath department stated.

Three members of one family died from the illness.The first case of illness occurred in an 81-year-old

woman who presented symptoms at her home beginning on or about Feb. 23. She was cared for at home by three of her children, a son and two daughters. The caregivers developed similar upper respiratory symptoms on or about Feb. 28. All were hospi-talized and became critically ill. The elderly woman, her 58-year-old son and 56-year-old daughter subsequent-ly died. A fourth family member and caregiver is currently hospitalized at the Washington Hospital Center, ac-cording to a health department press release on Tuesday.

Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs with MedStar Janis Orlowski told The County Times it is still un-known how the first patient died, but

the two following deaths were determined by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to be caused by Influenza-A and a “super infection” caused either by a staph infection or other bacteria.

A super-infection is a “condition in which a patient with a contagious disease acquires a second infection,” ac-cording to the Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine.

Initially the health department issued a release stat-ing five people were infected, with four from one family, and four people have died. A later release from the county public information office changed the number of people in-fected to four, and the deaths to three.

Originally, they were admitted to Calvert County Hos-pital, but were flown to the Washington Medical Center,

Orlowski said.St. Mary’s County

Health Department Officer William Icenhower said St. Mary’s County became aware of the case when Calvert re-leased their press release.

Icenhower said the state coroner is working to deter-mine the specific “number” of Influenza-A in a more de-tailed report. He said it will be interesting to see the specific strand of Influenza-A that in-fected the patients, because they can compare it to the vaccinations being given in the area. If the strands match, then the people who received

vaccinations are getting the best possible protection.Icenhower said an ambulance crew from St. Mary’s

helped transport the patients and are under observation, but so far they are still healthy and not showing any flu-like symptoms.

St. Mary’s County Health Department checked in with the hospital and the schools, but there were no cases report-ed similar to the Calvert patients, he said.

Orlowski said such a super infection is “uncommon,” and it is possible that the influenza weakened the son and daughter’s immune system to allow the infection to set in. She also said while the CDC has not determined cause of death for the mother, it is not unheard of for such an illness to be spread by close proximity and it is likely her children caught it from her.

Kathy Walton, secretary for Calvert County Health Officer Dr. David L. Rodgers, said Rodgers and others have been in meetings to discuss the matter and how to proceed.

At this time, there is no information indicating special preventive measures are needed for family or other close contacts of the patients; however, the health department will continue to work with the healthcare providers and others on this situation and will update residents if new informa-tion important to their health becomes available, the press release reads.

Walton said further information from the Calvert Health Department will be posted on www.calverthealth.org as it is released.

At the time of print, Rodgers had not returned calls or e-mails seeking further comment from The County Times.

[email protected]


ews

FDR Blvd Gains Momentum

Jenk’s Brother to Take Over Orphan’s Court Seat

griffinsflooringamerica.com22755 Maple Road

California, MD 20619301-862-2700

289 Merrimac CourtPrince Frederick, MD 20678

410-414-9293

Griffin’s

$300

Reg. $3.99 S/F Reg. $7.79 S/F

30%$1.99 $5.46

$1.99$2.19$1.49

Sabia. Available in a unique hand-scraped finish to bring radiantbeauty into your home, affordably.

$3.99$4.39$2.99

By Carrie MunnStaff Writer

During Monday’s budget work session, the St. Mary’s County Board of Commis-sioners agreed to put money into the fiscal 2013 budget for land acquisition necessary to move forward on the FDR Boulevard project.

The funding will enable the county to purchase land for phases 1 and 3, or between St. Andrews Church Road and Pegg Road. While the majority of the board agreed and directed the county’s finance department to leave $1.7 million in the FY13 budget, the motion will not become concrete until the commissioners vote on the recommended budget March 27, County Administrator John Savich explained.

Commissioner Todd Morgan, who has shown support for the road project since taking office, said he was grateful his fellow commissioners showed support in securing the land, but while he urged construction money for the FDR project to be moved up, it was instead pushed back a year.

“Construction funds are slipping and sliding each year,” Morgan said, explaining that, now, construction monies to build the county roadway won’t be available until FY2015.

He said Public Works director George Erichsen told commissioners the Route 4 to Pegg Road portion of FDR Blvd. would take 10,000 cars a day off Route 235, which Morgan referred to as “that NASCAR speedway.”

“There are safety factors in all of this too,” he said.“That’s the road that’s going to go right down the middle of the development dis-

trict,” he added, commenting that regardless of scrutinization during a possible base realignment and closure (BRAC), it’s still an important community project.

Morgan said he was happy for a move in the right direction, adding, “All we can do is take baby steps.”

[email protected]

By Guy LeonardStaff Writer

William “Bill” Mattingly, former chair of the county school board, has been appointed to take a seat as a judge of the Or-phan’s Court after the passing of his brother Charles “Jenks” Mattingly, Gov. Martin O’Malley’s office announced Wednesday.

Mattingly, who has also served as a law enforcement officer and District Court commissioner, said he was ready to serve, though he initially had mixed feelings about taking his brother’s seat on the court.

Mattingly said that almost as soon as his brother was laid to rest in January, he was approached by insiders here to see if he was interested in applying for the job ap-pointment by the governor.

“I was approached by several people at Jenks funeral and they asked me to think about it,” Mattingly said. “It had never crossed my mind, I had mixed emotions about it.”

After talking with Jenks’ children about the proposition he found they wanted him to apply for the position; he said he ap-plied “with no expectations.”

He called the appointment “bittersweet.”

The Orphans Court consists of three judges who preside over cases often involv-ing disputed estates or wills.

Mattingly said his brother Jenks was not only well liked but well respected be-cause of his ability to help settle disputes quickly.

Mattingly said it would be a task to live up to his older brother’s reputation.

“I’m a little nervous about filling his shoes, there are a lot of expectations out there, but I can only be me.

“I want to make him proud and his kids proud,” he said.

Mattingly said he would seek the counsel of fellow judges Dalton Wood and Linda Dean but that he would also rely on his own varied experience in public service to fulfill his new duties.

“I feel extremely qualified for this po-sition; I’ll always rely on common sense,” Mattingly said.

O’Malley expressed confidence in Mattingly’s ability to serve.

“Mr. Mattingly has a long and proud history of service. As past chair of the county board of education, he is highly re-garded and demonstrates great leadership and knowledge in managing complex is-sues. We are confident that he will bring to the bench a broad range of expertise, a true commitment to public service, and a dedi-cation to upholding the laws of the State.”

[email protected]


ews


After numerous citizen complaints about treacherous traffic situations in the Wildewood community, the State Highway Administration (SHA) will conduct a study to see whether a traffic signal at the inter-section of Route 4 and Wildewood Parkway would be the answer.

The study will also identify any other needed improvements at the intersection, according to a Feb. 13 letter from SHA to the Board of County Commissioners.

Charlie Gischlar, spokesman for SHA, said that the study would last 90 days.

“It’ll probably be late spring by the time we have the results of our evaluation,” Gischlar said.

He said the study will ascertain wheth-er a traffic signal would snarl traffic there or enhance its flow.

“Is it going to make it worse or make it better? That’s the question we have to an-swer,” Gischlar said.

Wildewood residents have complained

not only of the traffic at the parkway inter-section but of the speeding of drivers along the stretch of road which acts as a main ar-tery for the community.

Many pedestrians use the shoulders on Wildewood Parkway and are concerned that speeders pose too much of a danger.

Commissioner Todd Morgan, who rep-resents that community, said the traffic light needs to go in sooner rather than later.

“People are going 55 miles an hour down there [on Wildewood Parkway] and you can see skid marks there to prove it,” Morgan said. “The light should’ve been there from the start instead of the one on the back side of Sheetz [gas station] on Route 5; it was a waste of tax payer money.”

Morgan said he could not understand why the state continued to “drag its feet” in instituting traffic controls at the intersection.

“When I come out of there I take a right and turn around at the transfer station rather than try to make a left,” Morgan said. “We can’t keep studying the study.”

[email protected]


A fuel oil pipe that has been in opera-tion for nearly 40 years in Piney Point will cease operations after being decommis-sioned, but the owners of the subterranean pipeline say it’s not to be confused with the above ground pipeline owned by NuStar.

GenOn spokeswoman Misty Allen told The County Times their pipeline did have a small connection to the Nu Star tanks that have been a landmark in Piney Point for decades, but that will be no longer.

The pipeline owned by GenOn has been used to transport fuel oil to its power generating stations in Chalk Point and Mor-gantown and spans portions of St. Mary’s, Charles and Prince George’s counties.

“As of a few weeks ago, we were cut off from NuStar,” Allen said.

The choice to shut down the pipeline was a business decision, Allen explained.

“It only moves fuel oil and fuel oil hasn’t been economical for a long time,” Allen said. “Especially with the declining prices of natural gas.”

The decommissioning of the pipeline will involve it being filled with nitrogen gas before the shutdown, though the pipeline will remain underground and GenOn will maintain the easement on the land.

“It’s just filled with nitrogen gas and no longer in working order,” Allen said. “It’s infrastructure that’s already there, whether it’s [for] us or someone else.”

Allen said that GenOn had no imme-diate or firm plans to reuse the pipeline.

Billy Moore, the pipeline manager, wrote to the Board of County Commission-ers weeks ago informing them of the shut-down, with complete decommissioning to be finished by June 30 of this year.

“GenOn will continue a maintenance and inspection program once the pipe is abandoned; including the maintenance of Miss Utility signage so the public is aware of the presence of the pipeline.”

Moore wrote that the decision to aban-don one fuel source for their power genera-tion plants would not impinge the electric-ity reliability for Southern Maryland.

[email protected]

GenOn Pipeline To Shut Down

School Board Candidate Forum Set

State Will Study Wildewood Traffic

On Tuesday, March 13, the NAACP St. Mary’s County and the Center for the Study of Democracy is hosting a 2012 school board candidate forum in the Leonardtown High School auditorium from 7-8:30 p.m.

Scheduled to speak are candidates Cathy Allen, Marilyn Crosby, Jim Davis, David Kelsey, Trisha Post, James Tomasic.

For over 10 years the Center for the Study of Democracy has been committed to promot-ing education and discussion on both policy and political issues of interest to St. Mary's Col-lege, and the wider Maryland community.

The vision statement for The National Association for the Advancement of Colored Peo-ple is to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination.

The event is free and open to the public.


ewsThursday, February 9, 20127 The County Times

ews

MHBRNo. 103

SCAN THIS CODEWith YourSmart Phone

to Visitthe QBH

Web Site!

QBH St M County TImes Half Ad code_Layout 1 7/5/11 3:03 PM Page 1

Health Care Scholarships

AvailableThe St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation of-

fers scholarships to eligible Southern Mary-land residents interested in pursuing a career in health care. Each of the scholarships awarded covers payment for tuition, books and fees as-sociated with the degree, license or certifica-tion for a period of up to four years.

Since 2001, the Foundation has awarded nearly 100 scholarships to individuals interest-ed not only in nursing, but also in the growing field of allied health, a press release states.

These allied health professionals are in-volved in many aspects of health care, includ-ing physical, occupation and speech therapy; radiology; respiratory therapy; laboratory technology; and many more. New this year, scholarships are also available for students pursuing degrees in health care finance and health care information technology.

Applications must be postmarked by March 15, 2012. For complete scholarship re-quirements or to download an application, visit www.stmaryshospitalmd.org or pick up a copy in the hospital’s Human Resources Depart-ment. For more information about the scholar-ship program, call 301-475-6018.

Student leaders from the College of Southern Maryland are joining students from Maryland’s 16 community colleges in An-napolis today for Student Advocacy Day.

The yearly event gives students an opportunity to urge law-makers to keep community colleges affordable, a CSM press re-lease states.

Specifically, students are asking for support of the funding formula for the amount of state aid granted to each college and sup-port of capital requests at community colleges throughout the state. In 2002, 25 percent of tuition at CSM was funded by the state, in 2011 that amount dropped to 19 percent.

Students are being joined by CSM President Dr. Brad Gott-fried and CSM staff for a rally in the Presidential Conference

Room of the Miller Senate Building. Among the legislators sched-uled to address the students are Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton and Speaker of the House of Delegates Michael E. Busch.

Following the rally, CSM students planned to meet with elect-ed officials from Southern Maryland to ask for their support for full funding of community colleges in the Governor’s FY2013 budget. Students representing each campus are telling legislators their sto-ries of how attending a community college is helping them achieve their goals and what being able to access affordable quality higher education means to them and their families.

There were more than 12,000 credit enrollments at CSM for the 2011 academic year, the release stated. For information, visit www.csmd.edu.

Southern Maryland Electric Coop-erative (SMECO) has filed an applica-tion with the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) to reduce its energy charges.

SMECO’s Standard Offer Service (SOS) rate is made up of the energy charge and the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA). SMECO is filing to reduce the residential winter energy charge from 9.11 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to 8.68 cents per kWh, a reduction of 4.7 percent, a press release states.

Winter energy charges appear on bills rendered November through May. Residential energy charges for summer will decrease from 9.75 cents per kWh to 8.92 cents per kWh, a reduction of 8.5 percent. The filing was submitted Jan. 31, and, if approved by the PSC, the reduced charge will appear on customer-members’ April 2012 bills.

Lower power supply costs have

been reflected in the PCA on SMECO’s monthly electric bills. Customers have received a PCA credit every month since September 2011. The credit reduces the overall SOS rate, which is made up of the PCA and the energy charge. With the PCA credit, the SOS rate for January has, in effect, been reduced from 9.11 cents per kWh to 8.57 cents per kWh. The total SOS rate in April will be the combination of the new reduced energy charge and the PCA, which changes monthly. For an average residential bill for 1,300 kWh, the base SOS rate will be $5.56 less.

SMECO uses a portfolio approach to purchasing power, aggregating power supply agreements with a variety of suppliers to purchase energy for its base load and peak load, the release states. SMECO’s residential energy rates peaked in the summer of 2009 at 12.53 cents per kWh. According to SMECO,

natural gas prices, which reached $13 per million British thermal units (BTUs) in 2008, dropped to $3 per million BTUs in 2009, and now those prices are even lower.

SMECO’s new rates are based on forecasted power costs for April 2012 to March 2013, which are estimated to be less than $80 per megawatt-hour (MWh) for wholesale power supply. This cost is nearly 11 percent less than the estimated costs the co-op submitted in its last filing in January 2010.

“The co-op does not make a profit on energy charges. We also use a portfo-lio approach to purchasing power, with contracts for base load and peak load and long-term and short-term contracts. The co-op’s power portfolio produces stable energy rates and helps to save money for customer-members overall,” Austin J. Slater, Jr., SMECO president and CEO said in a press release.

SMECO Reduces Energy Charges

CSM Students Heading to Annapolis Today

41650 Courthouse Drive, Suite 200, PO Box 1307, Leonardtown, MD 20650

♦ HUD 203K Consultant

♦ Construction Management♦ Compliance Reviews

♦ Energy Audits

♦ Asset Management

♦ Assessments & Evaluations

Your project goals are our business.www.cheseldine.org

Call 301-475-2272 or e-mail [email protected]

MBE Certified Company

P1633


The Board of County Commissioners decided earlier this week to move ahead with the expansion of the county deten-tion center in Leonardtown, but the project could come to a halt if the state runs out of its portion of the money.

The nearly $30 million project is sup-posed to be paid for in equal portions by both state and county, but some county leaders fear the state will not fund the proj-ect next year.

Commissioner Todd Morgan (R-Lex-ington Park) said county leaders have re-ceived assurances from the members of the state delegation that the funding would be there by next year.

“What we know is that the state has promised us money,” Morgan said.

If the state fails to provide, he said, then the county will have to decide whether to proceed with the project strictly with lo-cal tax dollars or find some other way to fund it.

If there is no money, however, the proj-ect will have to stop in the middle of con-struction, Morgan said.

The project involves the renovation of key aspects of the jail like security cameras, locks and air conditioning as well as the ex-

pansion of the minimum security wing that will allow the overall capacity of the center to be over 400 inmates.

Commissioner Daniel Morris (R-Mechanicsville) clarified the plan to move ahead, explaining the exterior of the jail would be finished as well as some improve-ment for staff working there with county funds, but if the state did not come up with funding, then bunk space and cells inside the facility would likely go unfinished for a time.

Morris has been one of the commis-sioners concerned with the size of the jail expansion, saying that the extra capacity may not be needed for some time. But he has mainly been concerned with the possi-bility of the county having to borrow money to get the project going.

The current plan allowed for a secure facility, he said.

“This will allow for the movement of prisoners without putting them on the streets,” Morris said. “The jail needs to be secured, this will be a secured facility.”

In other budget news Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron defended his increased budget proposal of about 10 percent over last year’s request, or about $3.3 million. He said he expects to see some of it reduced by county commissioners.

“When you break it down it’s mostly

positions,” Cameron said. “My hope is the investments we make up front will result in reductions in crime.

“We have a good safe community but we have to make investments to keep it that way.”

Cameron requested a total of 15 new correctional officers for the detention cen-ter and five more deputies to concentrate on

crime in Lexington Park.He also requested funding for a single

detective to allow for dedicated monitoring of sex offenders as well as enforcement for any violations of the registry program.

[email protected]

County to Proceed with Jail Expansion


To The Editor

I was previously employed with the State’s Attorney’s Office for approximately 20 years, having since retired from that office on June 30, 2010. That being said, I am writing this letter on behalf of Joseph Stanalonis.

Joe joined the State’s Attorney’s office in 1996 as an Assistant State’s Attorney. At that time, I was assigned as his Legal Assistant and was fortunate enough to remain as his assistant until my retire-ment. During those years, I witnessed on a daily basis Joe’s dedica-tion, integrity, professionalism and knowledge of the law.

When meeting with victims of child abuse, murder, burglary, etc. he has always showed compassion and understanding to those victims an assured them that he would do all in his power to bring justice to their case. He worked diligently to successfully prosecute those criminals, insuring that said criminals would no longer be able to victimize again.

In closing on a personal note, I would like to say that I have utmost respect and admiration for Joe, not only as a person, but as a caring human being. In addition, I am confident that he will be a fair, impartial and excellent Judge. Therefore, I urge you to vote on April 3 for Joseph Stanalonis to be the next St. Mary’s County Circuit Court Judge.

Mary HendersonCalifornia, MD

In the March 1 edition of The County Times, I found two interesting letters to the editor on the Maryland same-sex marriage controversy, as well as a nice quote from one of our Southern Mary-land state delegates in an article about the gas tax increase.

On Paul Lawrence writes that Delegate John Bohanan needs to reread his bible on the is-sue of same-sex marriage.

I would suggest to Mr. Law-rence that he research Mr. Bo-hanan’s reasons for voting the way he did. Bohanan mentions his children and how he wants them to “have love, and if that’s how they want to express it, you want them to be able to do it openly.”

This is America, and people have the right to believe whatever they want to politically, regardless of religious affiliation. Moreover, I think Mr. Bohanan’s reasoning here is sufficient. It shows to me that family is his highest priority.

Mr. Lawrence also adds that “even the animal kingdom does not engage in such behavior.” This is a very strange way to look at it and a gift to people like me who like to point out falsehoods in public arguments so that the people can know the truth. This absurd state-ment is not true. A mere Google search will yield several animal species that engage in homosexual behavior. I was watching the Ani-mal Planet a couple weeks ago; it

was a special on male seahorses who give birth. How ungodly ...

Also on page 8 is political scientist Todd Eberly’s assessment and defense of Mr. Bohanan’s vote. I could not agree more with his analysis. I strongly recommend this quick read.

Finally, on page 4 Delegate Johnny Wood made a statement that I think sums up the crux of this whole argument: “We’ve got budget problems coming out of our butts. I don’t think we have our priorities straight.” Well said Mr. Wood.

Calvin BrienCalifornia, MD

We, the nine members of the St. Mary’s County Republican Central Committee, unanimously endorse Joseph M. Stanalonis for Circuit Court Judge for St. Mary’s County. Joe is highly qualified to serve as judge, having been a state prosecutor for the past 16 years. During his tenure in the State’s At-torney’s Office, Joe has tried more cases than any other prosecutor. He has extensive experience in working with victims and their families, which is an aspect that is unique to being a prosecutor, as opposed to a trial lawyer, who must defend the accused. Joe has also been active in many commu-nity service activities through the Optimist Club and as a coordina-tor of Project Graduation.

As has happened often be-fore, the governor’s choice for this position has focused more on politics than wisdom. He has had many months to make this ap-pointment, but instead, he waited until the last moment to do so. This calculated timing was designed to make is difficult for others to organize their opposition to his heavy-handed selection. Luck-ily for the residents of St. Mary’s County, Joe Stanalonis did not let that deter him from seeking the people’s approval for this post. Joe

understands that the voters of our county are far better equipped to decide who will serve them than the governor and the back rooms of Annapolis.

Without a doubt, this race for Circuit Court Judge is very im-portant. We will pick a judge who will serve the needs of our county for the next 15 years. When we go to the polls, we should choose the candidate who makes sense for us and not rubber stamp the choice of a governor who has demonstrated time and again that his leftist agenda is more important to him than the concerns of the people in Southern Maryland.

The values of Joe Stanalonis reflect those of us who live in St. Mary’s County. He is fair, hard-working and will seek justice in every care that comes before him. Joe understands the importance of safe communities and neighbor-hoods. Joe Stanalonis will make a great Judge and we urge every-body to vote for him in the prima-ries on April 3.

David WillenborgSt. Mary’s RCC Chairman

Mary Burke-RussellSt. Mary’s RCC Vice

Chairman

What the public doesn’t know about the “shell game” that our legislators are playing by turning over the Maryland State Teachers Retirement/Pen-sion Fund to counties. The assumption would be that the State would be turning over a healthy fund for counties to manage. That is not the case.

PEW Center on the States and Boston Col-lege’s Center for Retirement Research, two non-profit and independent research organizations are recognized as having expertise in analyzing all 50 states liabilities compared to actual state funding. Both organizations have some interesting history and projections on the Maryland Retirement/Pen-sion Fund for Teachers. In 2010, The Pew Center had “serious concerns” over the declining assets to liability ratio for the retirement fund.

In 2000, the Retirement/Pension Fund for Teachers was funded at 101%. That means for ev-ery dollar of money promised in payment, $1.01 was actually funded. That makes for a very healthy fund to meet the promises made to employees. The Federal General Accounting Office (GAO) has a guideline that any retirement fund, either private or public, at 80% is a healthy retirement fund. This is standard.

In 2008, the Maryland Retirement/Pension for Teachers fund was rated at 78%. No alarm bells were going off at that time since it was just below the 80% mark. The drop was attributed to the col-lapse of the financial markets. But something else was going on that wasn’t being reported. The State of Maryland, before 2003, had been making only partial or no payments to the fund. These payments are an obligated expense that lawmakers chose to overlook and this trend has continued. If that were not bad enough, the State of Maryland has been us-ing the Retirement/Pension Fund for Teachers as its own personal piggy bank. The latest withdraw was $120 million made last spring and transferred to the transportation budget. No state payment to the fund was made. Instead, they increased the percentage of contributions an individual teacher makes to their retirement fund.

By March of 2011, the funding was at 64%. Funding at 60% is considered “a serious concern or in need of improvement” by the Pew and Bos-ton College Research Centers. In a recent article

in the Washington Post, the projection is that the fund will fall to 59% funding by the end of 2012. Still the state is on track to remove another $60 million and another missed fund payment in 2013. Some of this drop can be attributed to continued fluctuations in the financial markets and the overall economy. Most of it can be attributed to our State leadership, regardless of party affiliation and the “shell game” being played for years.

So, what exactly are the individual counties inheriting from the state? They will be inheriting a fund that is under funded (using the 80% GAO standard) and may be approaching an unsustain-able future. They will be inheriting a fund that may impact county credit ratings and ability to borrow money. There are no laws on the books that pre-vented the state from raiding the Retirement Fund. Nor are there any laws that prevent counties from doing the same. If this had happened in the private sector, with a private company raiding employee’s retirement fund, somebody would be jailed. Since the “king can do no wrong” (no laws broken), the state is not accountable to the public sector. The counties need to find a way to delay this transfer of the Retirement /Pension for Teachers until the State restores the funds to the 80% funding stan-dard. Without that happening, each county will be on the “hook” for restoring this fund.

Restoring the fund can happen two ways: Raising county taxes in the event of the fund being transferred from the state or a penalizing reform for teachers. I am betting on the latter option or a combination. Teachers did not create the problem; the state bears the greater responsibility. The state reneged on payments, withdrew money to fund unrelated projects and balanced the budget, all on the backs of teachers. Teachers continue to uphold their end with their increased contributions to the fund. Neither future reform nor higher county taxes would be necessary if the state had kept its promised contribution and left the fund alone, al-lowing it to do what its original structure to accom-plish. A lesson learned too late.

Joan RitchieLeonardtown, MD

GOP Central Committee Endorses Stanalonis

Encouraging Your Vote for Joseph Stanalonis

Don’t Buy Bohanan’s Shell Game Logic

Well Said, Mr. Wood

Zero Tolerance for Racist Acts in Public SchoolsI recently attended a school board budget hearing and

heard, for the first time, Dr. Martirano's condemnation of the actions of white students who taunted an African-American student using a rope fashioned as a noose. I ap-plaud Dr. Martirano’s firm decision to suspend the students

at Leonardtown High School who committed this cruel act. We are living in the twenty-first century and there should be zero tolerance for this type of behavior.

I am a candidate for a seat on the Board of Education and, should I be elected, I will assiduously work with the

Superintendent’s office to help create a climate of racial harmony and respect for all students attending our schools.

James J. Davis, PELeonardtown, MD


To The Editor

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

James Manning McKay - FounderEric McKay - Associate Publisher..................................ericmckay@countytimes.netTobie Pulliam - Office Manager..............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.netSean Rice - Editor....................................................................seanrice@countytimes.netAngie Stalcup - Graphic Artist.......................................angiestalcup@countytimes.netSarah Miller- Reporter - Community..............................sarahmiller @countytimes.netGuy Leonard - Reporter - Government, [email protected] Munn - Reporter - Education, [email protected] Representatives......................................................................sales@countytimes.net

Thursday, January 12, 20127 The County Times

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

James Manning McKay - FounderEric McKay - Associate Publisher..................................ericmckay@countytimes.netTobie Pulliam - Office Manager..............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.netSean Rice - Editor....................................................................seanrice@countytimes.netAngie Stalcup - Graphic Artist.......................................angiestalcup@countytimes.netSarah Miller- Reporter - Community..............................sarahmiller @countytimes.netGuy Leonard - Reporter - Government, [email protected] Munn - Reporter - Education, [email protected] Representatives......................................................................sales@countytimes.net

Legal Notice:Commissioners of LeonardtownNotice of Public Hearing

The Leonardtown Mayor and Town Council will hold a public hearing on Monday, March 12, 2012 at 4:15 p.m. at the Town Office, 41660 Courthouse Drive, Leonardtown, MD for the following re-quest for ANNEXATION. The purpose of the public hearing will be to present for public review and to receive public comment regarding the request for the HAYDEN FARM PROPERTY, Tax Map 32, Par-cels: 82, 339 & 225, containing ±171.18 acres to be annexed into the corporate limits of Leonardtown. The owner’s of said property have requested that the Hayden Farm Property be annexed into the in-corporated town of Leonardtown. If annexation is approved, said property will be zoned Institutional Office (I-O). Copies of the annexation documents are available for public review at the Leonardtown Town Office. The public is invited to attend and/or send written comments to be received by March 12, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. to the Commissioners of Leonardtown, POB 1, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Special accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities upon request.

By Authority: Laschelle E. McKay, Town Administrator.

Commissioners of LeonardtownNotice of Public Hearing

03/08/2012

Why do Catholics support today’s Democrat Party

Fritz Backs StanalonisAs the chief law enforcement officer of St. Mary’s County, I endorse

Joseph Stanalonis for Judge of the Circuit Court.Our county needs conservative jurists to protect our interests, and

Joe Stanalonis is the best candidate to strengthen our court system to the benefit of law-abiding citizens. Having served as your elected State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County for 13 years, and as a prosecutor for 28 years, I have had the opportunity to practice in front of many judges. The most important characteristics in a judge are fairness and impartiality, and Joe Stanalonis embodies these characteristics.

For the past 16 years, Joe has served as an Assistant State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County. Originally hired by my predecessor, Walter Dors-ey, Joe has continued to serve under my administration. He has spent thousands of hours in court representing our community. I have watched him work hard to give non-violent first time offenders a chance to learn a lesson from their sentence, while also fighting to keep hardened crimi-nals out of our community and behind bars. He has prosecuted murder-ers, armed robbers, rapists, child molesters and drug dealers. Joe has ap-peared in court on a daily basis, handling jury trials, court trials, bond hearings, violations of probation and motions hearings. Joe has tirelessly worked for justice for victims, giving them a voice in the courtroom.

In addition to working to keep our streets crime-free, Joe also gives back to our community in other positive ways. For 10 years, Joe served as our juvenile prosecutor. He worked daily to give young people ev-ery opportunity to put their troubled decisions behind them and become well-educated, productive members of our community. Today, many of those troubled teens have chosen to serve our country in the Armed Forc-es, attend college, work on the Navy base or teach in our local schools.

Joe’s work has also led him to reach out to other organizations to better our community. He was a founding member of the Child Advo-cacy Center, a group of police officers, social workers, forensic nurses and therapists who together provide a safe environment for child abuse victims to talk about traumatic events and receive help. Additionally, Joe worked with local judges, Walden, probation agents and police officers to develop Adult and Juvenile Drug Courts for our county. These programs give non-violent offenders a chance to overcome their substance addic-tions and turn their lives around.

Project Graduation is yet another success because of Joe’s diligent efforts. Under his direction, my office raises $60,000 each year to fully fund this program. Joe serves as our office’s coordinator, and since the program’s inception, we have not had a single drunk driving fatality on graduation night.

Our county deserves judges like Joe who are working to protect our community, not protecting our criminals. It is with great pride that I endorse Joe Stanalonis for Circuit Court Judge.

Richard D. FritzState’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County

We Need Affordable FuelIt was interesting to hear President Obama's news conference on the gas price subject; he indicated

there was no "Silver Bullet" to cure the crisis, this is true; the only reason I see that he is even referencing the gas prices is because he has to because of the uproar from the citizenry.

The same working class citizens that are members of the " God, guns, and religion" genre he and his administration despise, these are also the same people that didn't vote for him anyway; so it's easy to get the feeling that the administration's stance is; who cares about gas prices?

So many of his followers still believe that all of the billions spent on electric car technology will create sudden and instant relief from fossil fuels. Most people with this thought process can't relate to the shell game of parking your internal combustion engine vehicle and jumping into your electric vehicle, the aver-age coal fired power plant now consumes thousands of tons of coal per day without electric cars plugged into them. So what you don't use in oil and gas gets burned in coal to carry the extra load, and I don't imag-ine there would be a big push to build more nuclear power plants either.

The auto manufacturers have jumped through a lot of hoops over the last 10 years or so and have yielded a lot of respectable fuel/environmentally efficient vehicles; can't we call this a success and a small victory for US citizens?

The bottom line is: the United State's economy was built on and still requires the need for affordable fuel to maintain its employment rate and security. Politicians from both sides of the isle, politicians who probably never pump their own gas or look at the bill when the fuel oil man just delivered need to wake up and fight for the common sense things that will bring us back to greatness.

Ross OwensLeonardtown, MD

Reportedly, above 50 percent of Catholics helped sweep President Obama to victory in 2008. Just why, is left to rea-son. The modern Democrat party platform, overseen by Obama, rests on three unalterable tenets. Tenet one is special consideration afforded the homosexual community, specifi-cally, marriage. Man devised marriage is now legal in seven states (Democrat governors all) as well as the District of Co-lumbia and now our own state is teetering. In studying your Holy Bible you’ll note God ordained marriage as between male and female. Tenet two is the party’s unwavering and tri-umphant stand for the right to snuff-out the lives of America’s unwanted little ones under the cloak of “choice” irregardless that such choice is neither the Lord’s nor the baby’s. When one honestly seeks truth and reads Exodus 20, verse 13, the Almighty’s view of abortion becomes crystal clear. Never-theless, there is no more stalwart proponent of these two un-biblical tenets than today’s Democrat party leadership.

Tenet three of the wonderfully enlightened Democrat party chiefs is their furtherance of Mother Earth worship under the concept of going green. The once reasonable and

prudent practice of environmental protection has been hi-jacked by environmentalist extremists in concert with liberal leaders. Sadly, the Democrat rank and file have been thrown under the bus by their own elitists whose secular agenda is void of concern for the creator in favor of the created. And lest any secularist excoriate me by citing God’s instruction to Adam let me remind such one to exalt the risen Christ. The God man, Jesus Christ our Lord, came to Earth with His plan to redeem fallen man not to save real estate. It was He who placed natural resources of oil, gas and coal below Earth’s surface for our usage and benefit. Today, gas is $3.58 per gal-lon and rising while yet to be proven affordable and plenteous green technology is the Democrat party’s ballyhooed distant plan. America could supply herself with energy were it free of liberal stranglehold.

Are there areas where today’s Democrat party is harmo-nious with the Almighty, you decide.

Some liberal politicos proudly proclaim themselves as a “person of faith”. However, they refrain from identifying in whom or what their faith is anchored and can’t disclose why.

If such faith were in God of the Holy Bible, Missal or Penta-teuch would not their policies reflect as much.

Recently, you’ve noted elitist Democrat party members’ disdain for the Catholic Church. If indeed you are a Christian or Jewish and you hold the view, well, I’m not Catholic so what do I care, rest assured your church may be next. How-ever, if you and your church are more faithful to worldliness than to the Lord God then governmental, organizational and personal opposition is not likely. A church standing for noth-ing changes nothing thus it presents no problems.

So, to my Catholic friends along with Baptists, Method-ists and otherwise I respectfully submit the following: Why will you again opt for Obama and remain faithful to liberal ideology in light of what the Democrat party stands for nowa-days? The church of God must wake up.

Chester M. Seaborn, JrMechanicsville, MD


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

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

LAW OFFICE OF

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

LOKER BUILDING

PunishmentCrime &

Retired U.S. Navy employee Gregory Roger Penk, 64, of Patuxent River, pleaded guilty late yesterday to unlawfully disclosing procurement contractor bid and source selection information, according to U.S. Attor-ney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein.

According to Penk’s plea agreement, from 1969 to July 2, 2011, Penk was employed with the Navy at a location in St. Inigoes, St. Mary’s Coun-ty. On June 30, 2010, the Navy solicited bids for a new Naval Air Warfare Center - Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) contract as part of a competitive procurement process. The services had previously been provided by Booz Allen Hamilton (BAH), one of the companies submitting bids on the new contract. Penk was responsible for assisting the contracting officer with funding, performance and technical issues related to the program.

Penk admitted that on three separate occasions, he disclosed contrac-tor bids and source selection information about the NAWCAD contract to BAH, Rosenstein reports.

Specifically, on Feb. 14, March 2 and March 4, 2011, Penk called a BAH employee and provided specific information about the contract, including the fact that BAH might not win the project and that BAH’s bid was $7.5 million higher than a competitor’s bid. Penk also informed the employee that the Navy would be issuing a best and final offer request and that BAH should prepare for that request. Penk disclosed the information to give BAH a competitive advantage in the award of the contract.

The Navy learned about Penk’s illegal disclosures and had to rebid the contract, Rosenstein’s release states.

Penk faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000. As part of his plea agreement, Penk and the government have agreed to recommend that the Court enter an order requiring Penk to pay restitution of $24,108, with $5,000 to be paid no later than the date of sentencing and the remainder in $500 monthly installments. U.S. District Judge Alexander Williams, Jr. has scheduled sentencing for June 13, at 9:30 a.m.


Local prosecutors have charged Paul A. Reed, of Mechanicsville, with shooting his stepdaughter’s boyfriend in the leg after an altercation at Reed’s home on Troy Court March 3.

Reed faces one count of first-degree assault, which carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison.

According to charging documents filed against Reed in county District Court, the altercation involving the victim in the case, Darius Jackson, ensued over an alleged sex-ual relationship the victim was having with Reed’s 17-year-old step-daughter.

Court papers reveal she and Jack-son had spent most of the day together on March 3 when she finally invited Jackson back to her home where she lived with Reed, her mother, brother, grandmother and two-month-old child.

They went up to her bedroom and went to sleep at about 11 p.m., court papers stated, but almost immediately Jackson was awakened by all the family members at the home who, he alleged, began to assault him in the bedroom before he fled downstairs and out of the home with nothing on but his shorts.

The alleged assault by all the family members continued outside the home in the front yard, charging documents stated, cul-

minating with the mother of the young wom-an allegedly saying: “We don’t have time for this [expletive], go get the gun.”

At that point, the family went back in-side, leaving Jackson out on the front lawn with hardly any clothes on, police said.

Jackson continued to look into the house windows in an attempt to get his personal items back, court papers stated, when Reed came up behind him.

“Don’t want no [expletive],” Reed is al-leged to have said before firing a shot from a Beretta handgun that struck Jackson in the leg.

A second shot narrowly missed Jackson and shattered the front door window, police said.

Jackson ran away and entered an un-locked vehicle to hide from Reed, police said, but Reed’s attorney Kevin McDevitt is-sued a statement on his client’s behalf saying there was more to the case than what was first thought.

“Mr. Reed is innocent,” McDevitt wrote in a prepared statement. “Based on the cir-cumstances, he used the appropriate level of force to prevent further injury and violence to himself and his family. We believe that the State’s Attorney [Richard Fritz] will con-duct a thorough investigation into this matter and determine that Mr. Reed’s actions were justified.”

[email protected]


Law officers from both St. Mary’s and Calvert counties were involved in a barricade situation in Hollywood on Saturday in which the suspect is al-leged to have fired on of-ficers during the standoff.

Both counties’ tacti-cal teams were called to an address on Mervell Dean Road at about 3 a.m. for reports of a man who had barricaded himself in a shed, claiming he was armed and would harm himself.

The suspect in the case, Joseph Leonard An-derson, 53, of Mechanicsville, eventually surren-dered to police at about 10:30 a.m.

He was charged with four counts of first-de-gree assault, four counts of second-degree assault and reckless endangerment.

According to information from the St. Mary’s sheriff’s office, Anderson exited the shed once dur-ing the standoff and fired several shots from a long gun at two Calvert tactical deputies and two St. Mary’s deputies as well.

The Calvert deputies returned fire, police stated, but neither Anderson nor the deputies were injured in the exchange of gunfire.

Lt. Steve Jones, commander of the Calvert In-vestigative Team, said the officers involved would be subjected to an internal affairs review because they discharged their weapons.

But, Jones said, “by all the information we have” the shooting appeared to be justified.

Jones said that the officers discharged AR-15 rifles, similar to those used by the military, during the standoff.

Sheriff Timothy Cameron said that officers closed down Route 235 for public safety concerns, though the delay for citizens was considerable.

“It was absolutely necessary to protect the public,” Cameron said. “He [Anderson] was in pos-session of a 12-gauge shotgun and a rifle, which al-lowed him to affect lethal force out to Route 235.”

He also praised the officers for using discre-tion in returning fire when fired upon.

Before the alleged shooting, police said they had tried to contact Anderson while he was in the shed via telephone, but he refused to answer.

Sheriff’s office negotiators tried to talk to An-derson directly but he refused and instead started hurling items at the officers, police alleged.

Anderson was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown for an emergency evaluation but was arrested upon release.

He is being held on $500,000 bail.

[email protected]

42-Year Local Navy Employee Pleads Guilty

Man Charged in Mechanicsville Shooting

Deputies Come Under FirePhoto By Angie Stalcup


Bertha Daugherty, 94

Bertha Lee Daugherty, 94 of Leonardtown, MD died Febru-ary 29, 2012 at St. Mary’s Nursing Center.

Born No-vember 22, 1917 in Lenore County, NC, she was the daughter of the late James Albert Foyles and Lydia (Barfield) Foyles.

Bertha lived in Baltimore, MD from 1941 until 1964. After leaving Baltimore, she moved to Salisbury, MD where she lived until 1999. Bertha then resided in Calvert County, MD until 2004 when she moved to Leonardtown, MD. Bertha’s ca-reer included working for the May Com-pany, later known as the Hecht Company, and the American Greeting Card Company.

Bertha is survived by her sons, Car-roll R. Daugherty of Port Republic, MD, and Dennis Daugherty of Endfield, CT, six grandchildren, seven great grandchil-dren, and sister, Cathleen Barrow of Wheat Swamp, NC. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Horace Lathan Daughterty, son, Rodney Daugherty and siblings, Fred Foyles and Maude Creech.

Family received friends on Monday, March 5, 2012 at Southern Calvert Baptist Church, 12140 H.G. Trueman Road, Lusby, MD 20657. A Funeral Service was held. Entombment followed in Spring Hill Mem-ory Gardens, Hebron, MD.

Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funer-al Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.

Thomas Duclos, 62

T h o m a s James Duclos, 62 of California, MD died Febru-ary 18, 2012 at St. Mary’s Hospital.

Born No-vember 11, 1949 in Nashwa, New Hampshire, he was the son of the late Arthur A. Duclos and Mar-garet A. (Cadarette) Duclos.

Thomas loved life and the outdoors. He loved to spend time with his family, es-pecially his grandsons. He was also a Dal-las Cowboys fan. Thomas was the owner of T&S Landscaping.

Thomas is survived by his children, Michelle Duclos of Great Mills, MD and Steven Arthur Duclos of California, MD, grandsons, Curtis Richardson and Jordan Danford, as well as seven sisters and five brothers.

A Memorial Service was held on Sat-urday, March 3, 2012 at the Callaway Bap-tist Church, Callaway, MD.


Coletta Haliscak, 88

Coletta M. Haliscak, 88 of California, MD died peacefully on February 27, 2012 at St. Mary’s Nursing Center, L e o n a r d t ow n , Maryland.

Born Janu-ary 29, 1924, in Jamestown, New York; she was the daughter of the late Arthur and Marie (La-Force) Van de Water.

Coletta served in the United States Marine Corps during WWII and was hon-orably discharged in 1946. She enjoyed reading bowling, accordion, violin, and needlepoint. The strength of volunteering did not stop when Coletta left the Marine Corps, she volunteered for the American Red Cross. She was also a member of the Women Marines Association and the Veter-ans of Foreign Wars. Coletta was a member of the American Legion for 65 years. She was a charter member of the American Le-gion in Frewsburg, NY and a member of American Legion Post 274 in Lusby, MD. After settling in St. Mary’s County, she was actively involved in local politics as a member of the Republican Women of St. Mary’s. She also served as a volunteer elec-tion judge.

Coletta is survived by her husband Capt. George Haliscak (USMC Ret) of California, MD; her sons Col. George W. Haliscak (USMCR Ret.) (Deborah) of Horsehead, NY, LTC Jonathan P. Haliscak (US Army Reserve) (June) of Devine, TX, CW05 Charles C. Haliscak (USMCR Ret) (Amy) of Chaptico, MD and (Former Capt. USAF) Ian L. Haliscak (Marilyn) of La-Vernia, TX. She is also survived by eight grandchildren; Cody (Cpl. USMC), Steven, Nicholas, Teddi, Hunter, Brandi, Brooke and Lorin Haliscak. Coletta is also sur-vived by her brother William Van de Water of Tonawanda, NY. She is survived by four nephews; William, James, John and Thom-as Van de Water.

The family received family and friends for visitation on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hol-lywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Prayer service was held.

Interment at Arlington National Cem-etery at a date to be determined.


Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, Maryland 20650.


David McVeigh, 63

David Rex McVeigh, 63, of Avenue, MD, passed away on March 1, 2012 at the St. Mary's Nursing Center, L e o n a r d t ow n , MD.

He was born on September 20, 1948 in El Paso, TX to the late Carl F. McVeigh and Mary H. Faunce McVeigh.

He was employed as an auto mechanic at Ourisman Cheverolet, Marlow Heights, MD for five years until retiring in 1969.

David lived most of his life in St. Mary's County. On June 13, 1970, in Clin-ton, MD he married Barbara Ann (Thomp-son) McVeigh. His passion in life included not only spending time with Barbara Ann, but going to the racetrack and spending time with his friends. He loved the water, working and building things with his hands. He thoroughly enjoyed building drag race motors and was given the title of "Dino Dave". David's friends would tell you, "He loved people and was always there to lend a hand to anyone. If he had it, it was yours".

David is survived by his wife Barba-ra Ann McVeigh, mother in law, Jeanette Maxwell, sister in laws, Carol Hendrick of Waldorf and Joyce Thompson of LaPlata, Frank Thompson of Mechanicsville, four cousins; Sharon Farrell (Ignatius), Deb-bie Brooks (Walter), Ronnie Wood (Rose), Jeffrey Bennett along with many nephews and nieces. David is also survived by his Godfather Ben Bennett of Charlotte and his very close friend of 32 years, Steve Clontz of Avenue. A special survivor of David's, is his faithful friend and companion, a poodle named Simon, affectionately called "Simon his diamond". David was predeceased by his father in law Earl Maxwell, brother in law George Thompson and a cousin Robbie Bennett.

A special thanks to Sharon Nichelson and Rose Robinson of St. Mary’s Nursing Center and the entire staff that cared for David.

Services will be private. Memorial

contributions in David's memory can be made to St. Mary's Nursing Center, 21585 Peabody St., Leonardtown, MD 20650.

Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funer-al Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD

Arlene Morgan, 77

Arlene Re-becca (Beck) Morgan, 77, of Lexington Park, Maryland passed away on Febru-ary 27, 2012 at Southern Mary-land Hospital.

Born No-vember 6, 1934 in Drayden, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Corne-lius Morgan and Rosemary Morgan.

Beck received her education in the St. Mary’s County Public School System. She held various jobs including working at the Belvedere Hotel, Harry Lundenberg Sea-manship School and in the seafood indus-try. In addition to Beck enjoying quality time with her family and attending family functions, she loved attending church ser-vices, listening to gospel music on the radio, watching gospel programs on TV and read-ing her Bible.

Beck is survived by and leaves to cher-ish her precious memories eight brothers:

Michael K. Gardiner, C.F.S.P., C.P.C.Funeral Director/President

An Independent Family-Owned Funeral Home Serving Southern Maryland for over 100 Years

(301)-475-8500

41590 Fenwick Street • P.O. Box 270 • Leonardtown, Maryland 20650www.mgfh.com

Providing trusted service to the community for over 100 Years


James (Rebecca), Robert (Nicole), Charles, Bobby, Joseph, Calvin (Francine) and Eric Morgan and Charles Gladden, Jr. (Louise); five sisters: Rosemary, Frances E., Mary Agnes Morgan and Julia Wood (Michael) and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son Joseph Xavier Biscoe, her sister Lucy Morgan, and brothers Thom-as Morgan, Steven Morgan and Bobby Morgan.

Family and friends will unite on Fri-day, March 9, 2012 for visitation from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. at St. Mark UAME Church, 45685 Happyland Road, Valley Lee, MD., with Reverend Jo-seph Statesman officiating. Interment im-mediately following in the church cemetery.

Arrangements by Briscoe-Tonic Fu-neral Home, Mechanicsville, MD

Brogan Ruppert, 11

B r o g a n Kade Ruppert, 11, of Mechanic-sville, MD died March 4, 2012 at his home sur-rounded by his loving family.

Born Oc-tober 5, 2000 in LaPlata, MD, he is the son of Ko-bey Shane Rup-pert and Melinda (Cooke) Ruppert.

Brogan attended Mechanicsville El-ementary School and was currently a sixth grade student at Margaret Brent Middle School. He was a creative, inquisitive and mischievous young man. He was truly wise beyond his years. Brogan enjoyed taking things apart to see how they worked. He was always using the Internet to research information and find the latest “deal” on e-bay. He loved visiting antique shops, the farmer’s market and finding treasures. He always found four-leaf clovers. Brogan also enjoyed playing video games, spend-ing time with his dog, Cooper, and creating origami masterpieces. Brogan was strong in his faith and he loved worshiping the Lord at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Leonardtown. He had extraordinary com-passion for those less fortunate as well as fellow cancer warriors.

In addition to his parents, Brogan is survived by his brother, Keilan Chayce Ruppert. He is also survived by his grand-parents, John and Elizabeth Sammons of Frankfort, KY; Donald and Catherine Cooke of Mechanicsville, MD; and James and Sandra Ruppert of Catonsville, MD.

Family received friends for Brogan’s Life Celebration on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at First Saints Community Church, St. Paul’s Campus, 25550 Point Look-out Road, Leonardtown, MD. Funeral Services was celebrated by Pastor John Wunderlich on Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at First Saints Community Church. Inter-ment followed in the church cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers were Kelly Ruppert, Rob Young, Trevor Young, Doug Townshend, Craig Risor and Bob Seeger. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Devin Absher and Natalie Genton.

Memorial contributions may be made to Love You More, a Sydney Ives Founda-tion, 1615 Greenmount Street, Rockford, IL 61107; The Cure Starts Now, 10280

Chester Road, Cincinnati, OH 45215; and Hospice of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650.



Ila Russell, 65

Ilah Jean Russell, 65 of California, MD died March 1, 2012 at her residence.

Born July 11, 1946 in Leon-ardtown, MD, she was the daugh-ter of T. Michael Lang, Sr. and Catherine A. (Ju-rovaty) Lang.

She enjoyed reading, watching mov-ies and picking crabs. She was a huge fan of Elvis Presley and Michael Bolton. She loved her grandchildren very much.

Ilah is survived by her children, Kath-erine Woodard of Leonardtown and John Woodard (Jennifer) of Great Mills; her grandchildren, Melanie Woodard of Ridge and Ian and Hope Woodard of Great Mills. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Francis Lewis Russell.

Family will receive friends on Thurs-day, March 8, 2012 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hol-lywood Road, Leonardtown, MD. Prayers will be recited at 7 p.m. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contribu-tions may be made to the Children’s Nation-al Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009.



Michael Schmitt Jr., 44

M i c h a e l John Schmitt Jr., 44 of Great Mills, MD died sudden-ly, at Washington Hospital Center on February 25, 2012.

Born April 20, 1967, in Cali-fornia; he was the son of Dorothy

Marie Schmitt (Havel) of California and the late Michael John Schmitt Sr.

Michael worked at Dyncorp, as an air-plane mechanic for the past 19 years. He has a passion for airplanes and enjoyed fly-ing model airplanes in his free time. Mi-chael served honorably, in the United States Marine Corps. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and playing with his step grandchildren.

Michael is survived by his life compan-ion of 20 years, Teresita S. Webb of Great Mills, Md. In addition to his mother, he is also survived by his sisters, Denise Fox of S. Carolina; and Julie Schmitt of California. He will also be greatly missed by his step-children, Jackylyn Wallace of California; and Jack Webb or Great Mills Maryland; and his step grandchildren, Jaciyah Webb and Justin Smith.

The family received friends for Mi-chael’s Life Celebration on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Prayers were recited by Father An-drew of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Lex-ington Park.



Robert Wingfield, 68

Robert Leon Wingfield, 68 of Lexington Park, MD died Feb-ruary 28, 2012 at Chesapeake Shores Nursing Center.

Robert was born on April 26, 1943 in Okla-homa. He en-joyed fishing and gardening.

Robert is survived by his wife, Delia Wingfield, his children Michael Wingfield of Maryland, Philip Wingfield and Robert Wingfield both of Utah, two grandchildren, and his brother, Richard Arnold of Okla-homa. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jessie Lee Davis and his brother, James Arnold.

Family received friends for Robert’s Life Celebration on Friday, March 2, 2012 in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. A funeral service was conducted by Pastor Rick Conner, Pastor of Patux-ent Baptist Church and Reverend Andrew Morkunas, pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Interment will follow in Ar-

lington National Cemetery at a date to be determined.


Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funer-al Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD 20650.

Jason Yeatts, 34 Jason Lawrence Yeatts, 34 of Holly-

wood, MD went to join his Heavenly Father on February 28, 2012.

Jason is survived by his parents, Larry and Lyndell Yeatts of Hollywood, MD, his sister and brother in law, Holly and Dhavid Cayanan and his beloved niece and nephew, Ella and Lukas Cayanan of Gainesville, VA, his grandmother, Jessie Skeen of Alta-vista, VA, his uncle and aunt, Marvin and Jean Skeen of Lynch Station, VA, his aunt Inez Irby of Gretna, VA, his uncle and aunt, Donald and Charlotte Yeatts of Dalesville, VA, his aunt and uncle Laura Skeen and Frank Harris of Roanoke, VA and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Walter and Jose-phine Yeatts and his maternal grandfather, Grady Skeen. He dearly loved his family and loved to hang out with his friends and fish. Jason you are now truly free from all of your pain and suffering. Rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord. We will see you again someday.

Family received friends on Friday, March 2, 2012. in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonar-dtown, MD 20650. A Memorial Service was held. Pastor Rick Conner of Patuxent Baptist Church will officiate. Interment was private.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Way of St. Mary’s, 23127 Three Notch Road,

Suite 203, California, MD 20619.Condolences to the family may be

made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Continued

Mark CourtneyMarch 9, 1973 – February 16, 2008

We love and miss you with every passing day!

Love, The Family

To Place A Memorial,Please Call

301-373-4125


Newly Implemented iPad Lab

Small Class Sizes

Science Lab

Advanced Math Classes

Certified Teachers

Robotics/STEM Program

Transportation Available

Accelerated Reader Program

Tuition Assistance

Affordable Payment Plans

Computer Lab with Up To Date Equipment

Hot Lunch 4 Days A Week

Member of Sunday Youth Basketball &

Cheerleading League

Before & After Daycare

Band and Spanish Programs

Annual Spring Musical

Summer Camp 6am- 6pm

Come visit our school, meet our principal,teachers, parents and students. Come see what we have to offer.

Principal Jessica Bowles can be contacted byphone or by email at [email protected]


Small Class Sizes

Science Lab


Certified Teachers




Tuition Assistance





Cheerleading League








Small Class Sizes

Science Lab


Certified Teachers




Tuition Assistance





Cheerleading League







A Taste of Mexico in Southern Maryland

30320 Triangle Drive Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 www.tequilagrillmd.com

240-249-3380

Authentic Mexican Cuisine 28255 Three Notch Rd

Mechanicsville, MD 20659 www.fiestacafemd.com

301-884-9730

• Piano every Friday and Saturday night • Jazz cabaret/dancing on special evenings • 3-course prix-fixe dinner menu $23.95 available until 6 pm daily and all night on Wednesdays! • $8 lunch & beverage special daily • Sunday brunch á la carte items • “Le Salon” (private room) available

SOMD Winner of• Best Restaurant• Best Fine Dining Restaurant • Best Dessert

Classic Country French Dining in a casual, relaxing atmosphere.

• Guys• Gals• Colors• Perms

Come in and Relax...

Under New ManagementThree Notch Rd • 301-884-4137

Woody's Barber Shop

A tradition of warmth, a commitment to value

301-373-2131burchoil.com

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLYEFFICIENT

Thursday, March 8, 2012 14The County TimesSpotlight On

Partnerships Creating Educated Workforce

GMHS Students Win Tri-County Computer Bowl


The beauty of community colleges, according to College of Southern Maryland (CSM) President Brad Gottfried, is they can turn on a dime and genuinely respond to the community’s workforce needs.

“For us, it’s all about listening, mak-ing sure we stay relevant and providing em-ployers with the workforce of the future,” Gottfried said.

He was joined by the many leaders within CSM that are putting that senti-ment into action. Exemplifying how one program was created with the support of the nuclear energy industry, Mark Drax-ton, Constellation Energy Nuclear Group (CENG) Manager and CSM Vice President and Dean of the Prince Frederick Campus, Richard Fleming shared how the Nuclear Engineering Technology (NET) program is answering the call of the community.

Draxton explained how more than 60 percent of the nuclear technology work-force is eligible for retirement within the next decade, leading the industry to take action in providing a means to get a new generation trained to replace them. He re-ferred to CSM’s NET program as a national model in its approach, involving the indus-try experts from the curriculum develop-ment phase to the career pathways enabled through internships at Calvert Cliffs.

In May, the program will graduate 12 students. Fleming said the turnout and suc-cess rate of the program exceeded his ex-pectations and announced that ground has been broken on a $10 million addition to the Prince Frederick campus, in which 3,000 square feet of space will be dedicated to the NET program’s state-of-the art equipment and applied learning lab space.

Many, like CENG scholarship recipi-ents Jonathan Varesko and Dante Johnson, who shared their personal academic stories with the crowd gathered at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center (SMH-EC) on Tuesday morning, are seeing doors open to career paths with starting salaries around $50,000 a year.

Varesko shared his gratitude for the financial assistance in completing the NET program, adding that learning from instructors who work at the power plant is beneficial for keeping students engaged and preparing them for practical workforce applications. “It’s a career opener, really … cooperative learning programs work,” he stated.

Rear Admiral Steve Eastburg, Deputy Commander of Naval Air Systems Com-mand, spoke to the importance of another pipeline development, incorporating K-12 outreach, CSM and University of Maryland engineering courses offered at SMHEC into the creation of a highly qualified work-force. Eastburg said it’s essential to “grow a more robust science and technology base” to answer to defense needs in the next 5 to 20 years.

Gary Kessler, Executive Director of Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Divi-sion, shared that within the aviation tech-nology community, they are also facing problems of an aging workforce. He shared how, at the local level, science and technol-ogy, which are a predominant and expand-ing part of Naval aviation, can be integrated into all education levels and how, so far, the base has interfaced with about 8,000 kids in public and private schools through class-room and after school activities.

Students interested in following an es-tablished path to meaningful work with the base can complete their first two years at CSM, transfer to University of Maryland’s engineering program, taking courses lo-cally at the SMHEC, while completing paid internships at the base.

Kessler stated that four students, who

completed the pipeline program, are now working at NAVAIR. While the number of students enrolled continues to increase, he said ultimately the goal is to have about 60 students, in their junior and senior years, coming out of it each year.

A planned third wing at the SMHEC, will further support the engineering pro-gram, which provides opportunities for both education and work in the local area.

Kessler said even in troubled eco-nomic times, the civilian new hires for fis-cal year 2012 are projected to be around 620 positions, and they are expected to grow more in the future, especially in key technological fields like unmanned and ad-vanced information systems, as well as data technologies.

Eastburg said that while “sizable re-ductions in our defense budget” are expect-ed, the need for a well-educated workforce will continue to be vitally important. “I’m excited about the results we’re seeing so far and we are absolutely committed to sus-taining and growing this program.”

[email protected]


Great Mills High School stu-dents walked away with top honors at the 23rd Annual Southern Maryland Computer Bowl on Saturday.

Two teams, comprised of stu-dents in sponsor and teacher Nora Wichrowski’s Computer Club and AP computer science classroom, com-peted in this year’s event sponsored by SMECO, College of Southern Mary-land and the tri-county school districts.

Great Mills’ A-Team, consisting of members William Harris, Andrew Herbig, Jordan Timmons and Jonathan DuBose, took first place, winning in-

dividual trophies, a $200 gift card, a Smart Pen and a $500 scholarship to CSM.

Great Mills’ B-Team with Dan-iel Bolton, Carson Meyers, Noah Wichrowski and Nick Oliver placed 12th of the 26 teams in the competition.

Each participant began with a timed, multiple choice test of com-puter knowledge, followed by each team completing a set of computer programming problems with four lev-els of difficulty and point values were awarded from both portions to deter-mine the teams’ success.

[email protected]


Superintendent of St. Mary’s County School Michael Martirano announced the Board of Education’s appointment of five members to a separate Ethics Panel last week.

Chief of Fiscal Services and Human Resources Greg Nourse explained the new ethics law requires more oversight and ac-tion at the level of the school system. New forms that fulfill the requirements will need to be created by the panel, he explained.

Though the county’s ethics commission has for the last several years handled any is-sues affecting the school system, the more stringent reporting requirements led to the re-establishing of a separate SMCPS-only panel.

Nine people put in resumes for consid-eration, Nourse said. One backed out when they found out the level of work involved and the remaining eight were interviewed and screened, with the top five selected for appointment.

After school board attorney Ed O’Meally trains the new panel members, they’ll begin work on creating the new re-porting forms and then will handle person-nel ethics issues as they arise.

Intentionally, the panel is a diverse group, with wide-ranging experiences, ac-cording to school officials.

The panel includes:• Wanda Brown, of Callaway, an At-

torney in the Enforcement Division of the Office of the General Counsel at the Fed-eral Election Commission and resident of St. Mary’s County for eight years will serve a two-year term.

• Stephen Kracinovich, of Leonard-town, a former member/Chairman of the Board of Education who has served on the Budget Advisory Committee, Special Edu-cation Advisory Committee, Growth Man-agement Committee and School Advisory Committees, will also serve a two-year term.

• Bernadette Lewis, of Leonardtown, serves as the Community and Cultural Rela-tions Director at Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO), is a long-time citizen of St. Mary’s County, a graduate of Great Mills High School and is involved in many community and civic organizations. She will serve a three-year term;

• Wayne Lockley, of California, serves as the PMA-201 program manager for Cen-terScope Technologies, Inc. and served 23 years in the Navy as a pilot. He has worked with elementary through high school stu-dents for over 20 years in a voluntary role. He also served on the Redistricting Commit-tee and is the coordinator of Park Hall El-ementary School’s Young Gentlemen’s Club and co-established the Park Hall Scholarship Award program. He will serve a two-year term.

• Patrick Murphy, of Leonardtown, serves as the chief counsel for the Federal Division of Robert Half International, is a long-time citizen of St. Mary’s County, hav-ing served as a former county attorney and attended both Leonardtown Elementary and Middle schools. He will serve a three-year term.

[email protected]

School District Ethics Panel

Re-Established

Photo by Lori WinklemanGreat Mills High School A-Team, from left, Andrew Herbig, Jonathan Dubose, Willliam Harris and Jordan Timmons pose as champions of the 2012 Southern Maryland Computer Bowl.

Photos Courtesy of College of Southern MarylandJonathan Varesko, of Leonardtown, shared his ex-periences in CSM’s Nuclear Engineering Technology program during Tuesday’s meeting. He is on track to graduate with his associate’s degree May 10.

Rear Admiral Steve Eastburg told the crowd how vitally important the existing and expand-ing partnerships within the community are to the Navy and the Department of Defense.


Moneyfor the love of

Buying • Selling • Leasing

White Plains Corporate Center II4475 Regency Place Suite 101

White Plains, Maryland 20695301-632-6320 office • 301-632-6323 fax

240-925-0440 cell • 301-769-2177 home [email protected]

Edward Middleton Commercial AgentCall Ed For:

WEEKLY SAMPLE

Subdivisions, Commercial Centers, Construction, Large Acreage/Farms, Waterfront Estates

Brand New Office Space Available,Up to 6000 sq. ft. (min 1000)

23680 Three Notch Road, California, MD 20619

• Sales Price $3,700,000• Lease Price $14 NNN plus $3 Common Area Fee • Two office buildings• Currently 75% leased• Located on RT 235

Paying too much?for auto insurance


Job-seekers are getting a hand in St. Mary’s County, as the number of new job listings and the variety of employment op-portunities both continue to grow. The volume of listings found on SOMD.com’s popular employment classified page has in-creased significantly in recent months, and after a stretch with few new jobs becoming available, companies seem to again be look-ing for good employees.

St. Mary’s County Department of Eco-nomic and Community Development Di-rector Bob Schaller said much like the rest of the country, “We’re seeing the unemploy-ment rate gradually falling and beginning to see an up-tick in job creation.”

Bill Scarafia, president and CEO of the county Chamber of Commerce, said St. Mary’s County is seeing a steady stream of new businesses, both the smaller, indepen-dent businesses and the larger retail spots, like Dick’s Sporting Goods, come to the area. He said though the region faced eco-nomic challenges, it remained better off than other areas, overall.

Scarafia said he thinks the stagnant job market was created from all the uncertainty in the economy and employers holding off on hiring, streamlining their staffs or a “do-ing more with less” type of business model. The increase in job opportunities, he specu-lated, is due to “more confidence out there.”

Schaller explained that while some large defense-based companies have seen a slowing down of new position creation and hiring, with contingent jobs choked up with government contracts, other supporting services and smaller tech businesses are ex-panding, leaving the area with a continued demand for a highly–skilled workforce.

Scarafia said, for a long time, chamber members have said finding employees with

the appropriate skills sets is always a chal-lenge. He explained many employers don’t have much to invest in training and need to find workers that can do the job from day one.

Schaller said the depressed economy, with commercial rents lowered, may have helped several new “mom and pop” ven-tures that have sprung up.

Scarafia agreed, adding that the same uncertainty that had employers holding off on filling jobs led many to put their skills to use independently, so they had more con-trol over their financial futures.

Both said that lending is still a hurdle for new businesses, with new, more strin-gent regulations making start-up borrow-ing difficult. Both also mentioned local banks that do the lion’s share of business lending in the area, enabling entrepreneur-ship to carry on.

The unemployment rate in St. Mary’s County, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Sta-tistics, in December 2011 was 5.2 percent.

The state of Maryland, with its 6.6 percent unemployment, is relatively strides above others, Mississippi (10.4 percent), California (11.2 percent) and Kentucky (9 percent).

On Wednesday, there were 156 help wanted listings on the local SOMD.com job board, with 17 of them having been posted since Monday. Ads seeking everything from a software developer to a shipping clerk or a veterinary tech to an assistant manager at Subway mean companies are again looking for employees.

Training, certification and education can be helpful tools in acquiring those posi-tions and there are many opportunities to hone your skills within the community.

“The numbers are going up,” Scarafia said.

[email protected]

Hiring Hike? More Job Openings Springing Up


STORY

From the Tobacco Field to the Pentagon

Pax River Realty, LLCpaxriverrealty.com • Ph: 301-862-0008

21779 E Tulagi Place, Lexington Park, MD 20653

15105 LAKE DR. SCOTLAND MD3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath 1.92 Acres. One Story Rambler. Clothes washer & dryer, Dishwasher, Freezer, Pull-down attic access, Refrigerator, Separate dining room, Stove, Wall or window air conditioner(s), Wall to wall carpeting, Vinyl flooring,

Master Bedroom, Dining Room & Living Room have Carpet, Kitchen has Vinyl Flooring. Septic system, Shed, Well(s)

MLS#:SM7702625

OPEN HOUSE • 3/10/2012

$235,000

2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

By Sean RiceEditor

As a teenager, Ed Greer was a part time TV repairman and worked summers on a St. Mary’s County tobacco farm.

Now approaching 55, Greer is a Dep-uty Assistant Secretary of Defense, work-ing in the Pentagon only two links down the chain of command from the top civilian de-fense official in the United States, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta.

When Greer was Executive Director of the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River he used a hands-on leader-ship style to oversee his 14,400 employees which involved walking around, relating to individuals, engaging workers – “stroking”

instead of threatening them. He took that leadership style to the Pentagon, “because that’s how you increase productivity.”

He is two years into a political ap-pointment as the Deputy Assistant Secre-tary of Defense for Developmental Test and Evaluation (DT&E). Similar to his days at Pax River, Greer is “dual-hatted”, and also currently serves as Director of the Test Resource Management Center (TRMC), reporting directly to Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics (AT&L) Frank Kendall -- who an-swers directly to Panetta.

(At Pax River, in addition to being NAWCAD Executive Director, Greer was also the Naval Air Systems Command – NAVAIR – Deputy Assistant Commander for DT&E)

As he has done for the past 25-plus years, he rises before the sun on work days, and gets back home when it’s getting ready to set. At the Pentagon, he works alongside tens of thousands of other dedi-cated and motivated indi-viduals who hustle from sunup to sundown to build and maintain what he calls “the world’s best weapons systems.”

On a recent Mon-day morning, The County Times had the opportu-nity to visit Greer’s office in the enormous Pentagon building to see first-hand what impact this Holly-wood native is having on the Department of Defense (DOD).

The County Times visitors were escorted from the parking lot by a staffer, through iron gates with military guards armed with automatic weapons to a metal detector checkpoint. (Before the escort arrived, we snapped a picture of the iron pentagon sym-bol forged into the outside

gate, which prompted a guard’s immediate response – he demanded to see the camera and watched as we erased the pictures of the secure entrance and reminded us it’s a federal offense to take photos within the Pentagon).

The inside of the Pentagon (which has three times more floor space than the Em-pire State Building in New York) is a 17.5-mile maze of corridors, almost wide enough to drive cars through. With nearly 30,000 employees responding everyday, the com-plex is like a city with nearly every imagin-able shop inside, including doctor and den-tist offices, nail and hair salons, a Best Buy, a Virginia DMV and dozens of restaurants and eateries, including a Subway that sells 6,500 $5 foot-longs per day.

Most workers quickly move through the hallways just below a running pace. Greer said that is a visible symbol of the level of motivation of the people who work there.

“They are the most professional and high performing employees in the world that work inside this building,” Greer said. “I have left at 7 o’clock at night and the halls are just as busy as they were at 10 in the morning.”

Greer was brought on as DOD Direc-tor of DT&E in March 2010. Shortly after, Congress changed that position of Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for DT&E.

This position, in a nutshell, is to serve as the Secretary of Defense’s principal ad-visor “on all DT&E matters” within DOD, with the goal of improving acquisition outcomes.

“In that role my major focus is to help programs succeed, and it’s a balancing act. I have an assessment role, that I’m expected to bring out during reviews,” Greer said. “But my Action Officers are dealing with the Program Managers and T&E people early on and con-tinuously, helping them write better documentation to put together ex-ecutable plans.”

In addition to ensuring new weapons systems are meeting end objectives, this new position that Greer fills aims to catch any problems early on, before pro-grams get to final test and evaluation stages.

“ C o m p l e -mentary to De-velopmental Test and Evaluation, is initial Operational Test and Evalua-tion, that’s similar to a final exam,” Greer explained.

“My job is discovery [of deficiencies or other problems]. So I really take it seriously that my goal is to minimize discovery in operational tests, which has been increas-ing over the last few years, mainly, I think, because [government] DT&E oversight was stood-down in the mid 1990s. Now that we’re back, we’re starting to turn the tide. More people are listening to what our issues are and we’re starting to see our credibility come back, which is really important.”

In this position, Greer’s office has oversight of nearly 300 programs across the country and, and based on his advice, Un-

Key to DOD Alphabet Soup

DOD Department of DefenseAT&L Acquisition, Technology and LogisticsTRMC Test Resource Management CenterDT&E Developmental Test and EvaluationT&E Test and EvaluationNAWCAD Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft DivisionNAVAIR Naval Air Systems CommandDAWIA Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement ActNDAA National Defense Authorization Act

Photo by Sean RiceGreer talks about aircraft he

has flown in.

Photo by Frank MarquartGreer talks to Bob Waxman during a recent visit to Naval Air Station Patux-ent River.


STORY

We Carry Wholesome Foods and Treats, Fun Toys, Leashes and Collars and so Much More!

In Callaway:20865 Callaway Village Way

Monday - SaturdayClosed Sundays

301.994.1460

2 Locations Serving Southern Maryland

In Solomons:13372 HG Trueman Rd

Open 7 Days a Week

Now With Self-Serve Dog Wash410.326.4006

www.pepperspetpantry.com

der Secretary of Defense for AT&L, Frank Kendall, makes critical acquisition deci-sions on major weapons systems.

“No one likes bad news, and bad news doesn’t get better with time. So it’s how you deliver it,” Greer said about programs they deal with. “But we do our best to deliver the bad news in such a way that we give them solutions and paths forward … [such as] ‘You’re deficient in this area, but if you do A, B, C, which sometimes means delaying operational testing, you will be much better off’.”

“We try to not just say you have an is-sue, but here’s the solution,” he said.

In Greer’s simultaneous position of head of the TRMC, he has oversight for all T&E infrastructure investment across the DOD.

“We have about 37,500 people in the Department of Defense executing or sup-porting Developmental Test and Evalua-tion around the country,” he said. “It’s a big business. There’s a lot of infrastructure, there’s a lot of testing going on.”

Greer said many policy changes have been implemented since he took over the position, and additional policies are expect-ed to be signed off in the summer-fall time frame.

“I was shocked when I came into this job to know that you didn’t need a hard sci-ence or engineering degree to enter into the T&E DAWIA (Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act) certification process, which is basically a professional training program. I signed out a policy letter requiring all personnel seeking to enter into T&E DAWIA to have either an engineering or a hard science degree that will take ef-fect as of October 2012,” Greer said. “That is going to raise the competence level of our entire DOD DT&E workforce. It’s neces-sary, mainly because of the complexity of these weapons systems. You need that kind of profound engineering knowledge to be able to pass judgment on whether a system is adequate or not.”

That change will affect the entire Ac-quisition T&E workforce across the coun-try. Policy changes from both of Greer’s di-visions, as well as Congress’s National De-fense Authorization Act of 2012 (NDAA), have direct effects on operations at NAS Pax River.

“Congress recently passed NDAA 2012 and part of that was the creation of a Chief Developmental Tester and a lead gov-ernment DT&E agency, I think that’s signif-icant for Pax River and other test centers,” he said. “A lot of program managers feel

like their risk is lower if they go out to the prime contractor and sometimes they invest at prime contractors which duplicates in-vestments that already exist at government sites. This will allow them to still go out to primes, but they have to create a cost benefit analysis and submit it to me for approval.

“Overall it’s going to influence the culture of Program Managers, and the fact that Pax River has Program Managers co-located with the test activities, I see that as a significant advantage for Pax River … and many test centers across the board,” Greer said.

When he headed up NAWCAD at NAS Pax River for eight years, the day-to-day stress level was greater, because he was responsible for the actions of more than 14,400 individuals. But at the Penta-gon, Greer faces a sort of passive stress that reminds him the state of national security depends on his hard work.

“The consequences of making a wrong decision here, inside the Pentagon, are huge,” he said. “So there’s a lot of vetting and discussions that take place, debates if you will, to make sure that we get it right, because when you get it wrong here in the Pentagon, it’s significant. It could really ad-versely affect this nation.”

Greer started in the technology field by helping his father’s TV repair business

in Hollywood and said he is “living proof” that with hard work, a college degree and clear goals and objectives, anyone can suc-ceed in the field they set out for.

He also said seeking out mentors along the way and acting as a mentor for others, is a key to success.

“That’s something I’ve always done is sought mentors,” Greer said. “You can also learn a lot by mentoring others … I still have several protégées from Pax River that call me and come up here looking for career guidance.”

Greer sees this position as a “twilight tour’ to his career and said he had a long talk with his wife, Phyllis, before accepting the position. Compared to his last position, it brings in less money and often has him away from home for even more hours.

“It’s not about money, it’s about the love for your country,” he said.

“I’ve got a set of core values that guides where I need to go … I’ve never been fired in my life, from any job, including working eight years in a tobacco field,” Greer said. “I’m doing what I think is in the best inter-est of this nation and the Department of Defense.

“When I drive home everyday, I know I’ve done my best, and I’ve worked hard.”

[email protected]

Delegate John Bohanan talks to Greer.



After Idolia Shubrooks found muster papers of the U.S. Colored Troops, belong-ing to her grandfather, she has spent 20 years pursuing the dream of having their contri-butions recognized.

After much work, the Unified Committee for Af-ro-American Contributions (UCAC) and the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civ-il War (SUVCW) held the groundbreaking for the Unit-ed States Colored Troops Me-morial Monument on Sunday. The six-foot bronze sculp-ture of a U.S. Colored Troop, crafted by Gary Casteel, will be erected in a visible spot in John G. Lancaster Park in Lexington Park.

Mike Brown, UCAC’s vice president and son of the organization’s founder, said the location is a fitting one, with the park named for St. Mary’s County’s first and only black commissioner. “We’re excited to see this come to be after all the hurdles we’ve had to overcome,” he said.

The monument, said UCAC’s Janice Walthour, will begin to bridge the gap in St. Mary’s County his-tory, officially recognizing the contri-butions of African-American men who fought in the Civil War to end slavery and protect the freedoms of all. The monu-ment will attract tourists from across the state and nation, Walthour said.

Two St. Mary’s County natives and Medal of Honor recipients, Sgt. James H. Harris and Pvt. William H. Barnes, as well as all Union soldiers and sailors, will be commemorated for their service

with the establishment of the historical landmark.

UCAC President Nathaniel Scrog-gins served as the event’s master of cer-emonies, introducing many speakers who had a hand in helping the project come to fruition. Speakers included Naval Air Station Patuxent River’s Executive Of-ficer Capt. Benjamin Schevchuk, who spoke of the tumultuous time in Ameri-can history when the colored troops came to be and Delegate John Bohanan and state Senator Roy Dyson, who spoke to their efforts in obtaining a bond bill to

help get the monument erected.The county contributed the land for

the project as part of a required match and UCAC has been working since 2009 to raise funds.

Bohanan said while bond bills are sometimes controversial; he felt it was an important project for the community, one which preserves local African-American

history.“This is how we get things done in

St. Mary’s County,” he said.The dedication and unveiling of the

monument is scheduled for the morning of the 2012 Juneteenth Celebration on June 16 at 10 a.m.

[email protected]

NewsmakersGroup Hosts Groundbreaking for Colored Troop Memorial

Free Faith, History Event Dr. Nabeel Qureshi will share his story

of converting from Islam to Christianity at an “Engaging Life: Truth and Reason” event at King’s Christian Academy in Callaway next week.

The three-night intellectual and spiri-tual challenge, March 13, 14, and 15 at 7 p.m will feature Qureshi, a former devout Muslim and evangelical apologist who has dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel through teaching, preaching and debating.

Qureshi lectures at universities and seminaries through North America, focus-ing on the foundations of Christian faith and the early history and teachings of Islam. He is also the director of Creed 2: 6 Ministries.

The event is free and open to the entire Southern Maryland region.

For details, contact KCA at 301-994-3080 or [email protected].

Photo by Carrie MunnA group of elected officials and community supporters, including UCAC founder Elmer Brown (black hat), Capt. Benjamin Schevchuk, Sen. Roy Dyson and, a woman instru-mental in the memorial’s erection, Idolia Shubrooks, ceremoniously break ground at Lancaster Park on Sunday.


STATE NEWSSTATE NEWS


For years, Maryland law has required anyone seeking a concealed carry handgun permit to show a “good and substantial rea-son” why they should have one, but a U.S. District Court judge ruled this week that the long-held provision was unconstitutional.

The decision in the Wollard v. Sheridan case is already being hailed as a major vic-tory for gun rights in a state long known as one of the most restrictive in the country.

Judge Benson Everett Legg said, in his opinion, the state’s restriction did not exist to advance public safety or reduce accidents.

“Rather, the regulation at issue is a ra-tioning system,” Legg wrote in his filing. “It aims, as defendants concede, simply to reduce the total number of firearms carried outside of the home by limiting the privilege to those who can demonstrate ‘good reason’

beyond a general desire for self-defense.“A citizen may not be required to offer a

‘good and substantial reason’ why he should be permitted to exercise his rights. The right’s existence is all the reason he needs.”

St. Mary’s County Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron said citizens lawfully carrying handguns is not an impediment for police and that he supports the idea of permitted concealed carry.

“I have no issue with that at all, I sup-port that,” Cameron said.

Cameron said if the state law changes, citizens would still bear a greater responsibil-ity if they go about carrying a handgun for self-defense and that they would still have to pass a background check.

“There’s still a vetting process to go through,” he said.

Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans said the ruling represented uncharted territory in Maryland, but he believed it would lead to

significant change.“I guess this means that the state police

will have to vet more handgun permits,” Ev-ans said.

Evans said he was wary of concealed carry in public buildings or schools, but he believed that, overall, the ruling was a good one.

The ruling itself referred to the Heller decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2008 which overturned the handgun ban in Wash-ington D.C. and affirmed an individual’s con-stitutional right to own firearms.

“I believe in the Constitution; it makes sense,” Evans said. “Other states that have more lenient policy [on concealed carry] don’t have a problem with people being armed and doing anything foolish.”

The recent landmark case centered around the complaint of Baltimore County resident Raymond Wollard, who was able to get a concealed carry permit in 2003 after his son-in-law broke into his home on Christmas Eve while high on drugs.

Wollard held the invader at bay with a shotgun but he wrested it away from Wollard and a struggle ensued. Wollard’s son was able to get another gun and restrain the in-vader, according to court filings.

Police took two-and-a-half hours to re-

spond but subsequently Kris Lee Abbott was convicted of first-degree burglary. He was eventually released and took up residence just three miles away from Wollard’s home, court records show.

Wollard was able to renew his handgun permit in 2006 after Abbott was released from prison but was denied another renewal by the Maryland State Police permit review board in 2009 because he did not provide evi-dence “to verify threats occurring beyond his residence, where he can already legally carry a handgun.”

Greg Shipley, Maryland State Police spokesman, said many may choose to not even apply for a handgun permit because they are concerned they may not have a good and substantial reason.

But the number of people denied for that reason tallied to just 179 people last year, he said.

Last year there were just 251 people denied a handgun permit out of the 5,216 applications.

“Right now we are continuing to accept applications,” Shipley said. “We’ll be work-ing with the Attorney General’s Office on how to proceed.”

[email protected]

Judge: Maryland Handgun Rule Unconstitutional

Angle Drills Circular Saws Drills Hammer Drills Hilti Concrete Gun Lots of Doors Interior Doors Aluminum Ext. Columns Fiberglass Ext. Columns Many Trailers

Concrete Saws Electric Jack Hammer Roto Hammer Screw Guns Air Tools 3 Elec.Trolling Motors Antiques Log Splitter New Gas Air Compressor Assorted Building Materials

Propane Heaters Survey Tools Generators Lots of Windows Hardware Rolls of Aluminum Siding 3 Phase Compressor Trim Plywood

SOME OF THE MANY ITEMS TO BE SOLD: TOO MUCH TO LIST

TERMS: CASH, GOOD CHECK &

CREDIT CARDS

10% BUYERS PREMIUM

PREVIEW Fri. 9th -10am-2pm & Sat.10th - 7:30am

ALL ITEMS TO BE SOLD “ AS IS ” AND MUST BE REMOVED BY 5:00 p.m. SALE DAY, UNLESS

OTHERWISE DISCUSSED

DIRECTIONS:

Waldorf: Rt. 5 South to WAWA in Mechanicsville, bear right on Rt. 5, about 2 miles on right.

Lexington Park: Rt. 235 North to the WAWA in Mechanicsville, to left on Rt. 5 about 2 miles on right.

John Deere 950 1992 4 WD Diesel Only 172 hrs

John Deere 325 14’ Flat Bottom Boat 14’ Trailer

Motor Home 1989 Ford Jamee

Log Splitter 2001 Dump Bed Elec. 2 Axel 6x10

301-884-7000

1-800-MR LISTER

[email protected]

GO TO www.fitzgeraldrealty.net

FOR MORE PICTURES AND INFO.

FOOD ON SITE

38805 Foley Mattingly Road, Helen, MD In St. Mary’s County next to Hill’s Store

March 10th - 9:00 a.m. ————- Rain or Shine ————

BUILDER RETIRING SAYS ALL MUST GO To Speed up the registration process on-site Please PER-REGISTER at

www.fitzgeraldrealty.net - Go to AUCTIONS tab

By Robert BairdCapital News Service

Maryland Democratic Sen. Ben Car-din has raised millions more in campaign funds than his nearest rival, according to year-end campaign financial reports filed with the Federal Election Commission.

Cardin's campaign reported rais-ing $697,000 for the October-December quarter, bringing the total funds raised in 2011 to more than $3.1 million, and $4.2 million for the 2006-2012 election cycle. Republican former Secret Service Agent Daniel Bongino raised the second-high-est total, $130,000.

Cardin's campaign has $2,664,270 on hand as of Dec. 31. Some of his largest contributors include employees and their families of The Time Group and Gold-man Sachs.

Cardin, who is serving his first term and who enjoys the support of President Barack Obama, faces eight Democrats in the primary on April 3: Richard Blag-mon, a Naval Reserve officer from Upper Marlboro, is relying on personal loans worth $12,500. None of the remaining Democrats -- Blaine Taylor, JP Cusick, Christopher Garner, Ralph Jaffe, Ed Tinus, Lih Young and prominent Prince George's County pastor, the Rev. C. An-thony Muse -- filed fundraising activity.

Candidates do not have to file until their campaign spending or donations reach $5,000.

Only two of Cardin's Republican rivals reported fundraising in the final 2011 quarter. Bongino raised $130,000 in 2011, and said he expected this (March) quarter alone to exceed that number. Richard Douglas, a former deputy as-sistant secretary of Defense, raised more than $63,000, but has only $9,000 cash

left on hand.The remaining Republican candi-

dates Joseph Alexander, Robert Broadus, William Capps Jr., Rick Hoover, Jim Is-rael, John Kimble, Brian Vaeth and Cor-rogan Vaughn did not report fundraising activity.

Cardin, a former speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates with a 45-year career in Annapolis and Wash-ington, is “taking nothing for granted in the race,” said his spokeswoman Sue Walitsky.

Democrats have about twice as many registered voters than the GOP in Maryland, and have held both Senate seats since 1987. But Bongino points to wins by former Presidents Ronald Rea-gan and George H.W. Bush in Maryland as proof there will be a fight.

“Republicans have won here be-fore... There are no lost causes; there are causes you're willing to fight for, and those you're not,” he said. Bongino has received the endorsement of a number of representatives on The Hill and in An-napolis, including Maryland Senate Mi-nority Whip Ed Reilly, R-Anne Arundel. He told Capital News Service he is using White House connections he made while protecting the president to help him in his campaign.

Paul Hernnson, director of the Cen-ter for American Politics and Citizen-ship at the University of Maryland, said Bongino faces an uphill battle.

“Cardin is a well-known politician in Maryland, he's been around for a long time, and he's well-liked, and Maryland is a Democratic-leaning state,” Hernnson said.

The primary is on April 3. The next quarterly reporting date for the Senate race with the FEC is April 15.

Cardin Fundraising Outpaces All Rivals


Patuxent River Sail and Power Squadron’s 2012 Boating Seminar Series will offer boating education classes to the public. Our programs are targeted to a range of boaters, types of boating, families and indi-viduals. Specific seminar topics are given in 2-3 hour formats with valu-able take-away guides. Individuals or families signing up for 3 or more classes will receive a 10% discount.

All Seminars are held at the Southern Maryland Higher Educa-tion Learning Center located at 44219 Airport Road, California, MD 20619. Attendees are urged to pack a lunch and stay for sea stories.

Pre-registration is required. Register online at www.usps.org/lo-calusps/patuxent/ For more informa-tion, cost & times contact [email protected]. 301-475-3883.

April 7 2012 – Four Seminars in 1 Day!

AnchoringThis seminar covers selection of

anchor, rode and components; anchor selection for sea conditions and bot-tom characteristics. Learn the tricks for successful deployment and recov-ery of anchors in any situation. The kit includes the Anchoring Quick Guide and Student Notes with copies of the slides.

Mastering the Rules of the Road

This seminar provides an expla-nation with examples of the 37 Rules of the Road for both the U.S. Inland Rules and the International Rules (COLREGS). It simplifies the some-times complex law relating to boat operation for the recreational boater.

Radar – Effective Navigation & Collision Avoidance

You will Learn about Radar Ba-sics, Radar Echoes, Operator Aids, Interfacing equipment with your Bridge, Collision Avoidance, Navi-gation, Display and Target Identifi-cation, Headings, Ranges, Rain and Snow effects.

Using VHF & VHF/DSC Ma-rine Radio

Using an interactive model, you will learn everything you need to know using your VHF and Digital Selective Calling (DSC).VHF is the mainstay of emergency communica-tions on the water. Learn how DSC simplifies and improves rescue. CD and waterproof guide included.

Patuxent River Sail and Power Squadron is a unit of the United States Power Squadron (USPS) which is a non-profit, educational organiza-tion dedicated to making boating safer and more enjoyable by teaching classes in seamanship, navigation and related subjects.

Community

Tom and Laschelle McKay and Debbie and Mike Lasher are pleased to announce the engagement of their

daughter, Jackie McKay, to Graham Prosch, son of Tom and Christine Prosch of Annandale, Virginia.

Jackie is a 2007 graduate from St. Mary’s Ryken High School. She earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree

in Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies with a minor in Elementary Education at James Madison University

in 2011. She will receive her Master’s of Arts Degree in Education also at James Madison University May 4,

2012. After graduating from Annandale High School in 2007, Graham earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems

at James Madison University in 2011. Graham is now a Second Lieutenant training to become an Infantry Officer in the United States Army. His first

assignment is in Germany. The wedding is May 12, 2012 at Cross Keys Vineyard in Mt. Crawford, Virginia.

Jackie McKay & Graham ProschJackie McKay & Graham Prosch

George Kirby, dressed as children’s literature icon, The Cat in the Hat, reads to students at George Washington Carver Elementary on Thurs-day, March 2, Dr. Se-uss’ birthday. A former middle school principal and member of the Li-on’s Club, Kirby retired in 1997 but continues to substitute teach. “Kids are just my thing,” he told The County Times, adding he also read to Park Hall El-ementary students and folks at The Center for Life Enrichment.

On March 24, Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center will be the site of the 10th Anniversary of the Women of the World Luncheon and Awards Program, the WOW luncheon, honor-ing Calvert’s women and celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Girl Scouts.

The guest speaker, Jan Verhage, is the Chief Operating Officer of Girl Scouts USA and immediate past CEO of the Girl Scout Council of our Nation’s Capital.

The event is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters Calvert Coun-ty and the Calvert County Commission for Women along with American As-sociation of University Women Patux-ent River Branch, Brem Foundation to Defeat Breast Cancer, Calvert County Chamber of Commerce, Calvert Collab-orative for Children and Youth, Inc., Cir-cle of Angels Initiative, Inc., Communi-ty Mediation Center, Concerned Black Women of Calvert County, Inc., Daugh-ters of Abraham of Southern Maryland, Girl Scouts of Southern Maryland Cal-vert County, and the United Way of Cal-vert County Women’s Initiative.

The event grew out of a desire to celebrate International Women's Day af-ter a visit by League members to Zambia where they witnessed festivities for the Day, a press release states.

Although not celebrated on the ex-act day; however, since March is Wom-

en’s History Month and the arrival of spring, a Saturday in March has been set aside each year for the WOW Luncheon.

Each year this event is a combina-tion of educational displays, music, food, the honoring of many women leaders by the various women’s groups participat-ing, inspiring speakers, camaraderie and networking among the participants.

With a commitment to celebrate Calvert’s women’s accomplishments and to have fun in getting into the spirit of focusing on women, mentoring has been an important focus of this event.

Girl Scouts have been an integral part of the annual event for several years providing the flag ceremony and creat-ing centerpieces. It was a logical pro-gression to merge the two anniversaries into this year’s celebration.

The theme, "Badge of Honor" (It’s a Badge of Honor to be a Woman of the World Today!), provides an opportunity to explore the future of today’s young women.

Reservations are required and must be paid in full by March 12. Tickets are $27 per person. To reserve your seat, mail checks to: League of Women Vot-ers, P O Box 1510, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

For additional information, con-tact Anne Mychalus at 410-586-2176 or [email protected].

CEO of Girl Scouts to Speak in Lusby

Boating Seminar Series 2012

CelebratingSeuss’ Birthday

Photo by Wendy Schaller


St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission (Met-Com) is in the planning and design phase of an Automated Meter Reading (AMR) Project. When completed nearly every MetCom water customer will be served by a radio-read water meter with drive-by meter reading technology, according to a MetCom press release.

The radio-read meters will allow monthly meter readings and invoicing for actual water usage. In addi-tion, the automated reading device will instantly convey a message to the operator of any meter malfunction or if a leak is suspected to ensure timely investigation and repair. The information obtained from monthly meter readings will also assist MetCom in more easily detecting water system leaks. A data comparison of actual water volume consumed, to total water pumped, from any given water system will indicate the presence of system leaks, which otherwise would go undetected.

This heightened awareness of water consumption will help increase efforts to minimize water usage and reduce wastewater treated and discharged into the Chesa-peake Bay. As such, the AMR Project is regarded as an environmentally “green” initiative, which will not only benefit our customers individually, but will also benefit

the environment as a whole, the release states.The AMR project is estimated to cost approximately

$9,934,000.00, which includes the costs of planning, de-sign, and construction associated with the installation of approximately 12,875 radio-read meters, the acquisition of meter reading equipment and the implementation of necessary computer interfaces. The project will be fund-ed with a grant and a low–interest loan from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). The cost to ser-vice this debt is included in the Water System Improve-ment Charges and is shared equally among all MetCom customers paying this charge.

The work will be performed by a private contractor to be selected after a competitive bidding process. It is cur-rently projected that the AMR construction contract will be awarded by the summer of 2012. Project construction is scheduled to take approximately one and a half years to complete. All work will be managed and inspected by MetCom.

MetCom will hold a series of public information meetings prior to work starting for the project. For more information about this project, contact MetCom’s Engi-neering Department at (301) 373-4733 ext. 319.

Bay Community Support Services, Inc. (BAYCSS) has partnered with AmeriCorps, a national volunteer pro-gram that promotes the spirit of civic participation and service across the country, to institute an active volunteer program that would provide BAYCSS with access to car-ing and motivated individuals who are seeking volunteer opportunities with individuals with disabilities.

There is a wide variety of volunteer opportunities available at BAYCSS that meet the interests and skills of almost any potential volunteer. The volunteer opportuni-ties range from the maintenance and upkeep of the agen-cy’s residential group homes to serving on the BAYCSS Board of Directors.

Rachel McDermott, an AmeriCorps Volunteer Co-ordinator for BAYCSS who has already placed over 20 volunteers with the agency, stays abreast of the agency’s needs, posts volunteer opportunities through numerous Volunteer Directories and Listings, and follows up with currently placed volunteers and their direct supervisors within the agency to monitor the success of each place-ment with BAYCSS.

“I like that when I find a volunteer to place that they will be able to help others, and the satisfaction of that is a great feeling. Knowing that there are people out there in

the world who are willing to help someone without ex-pecting money is a great feeling,” McDermott said about why she enjoys her work as a Volunteer Coordinator.

April Krauth, BAYCSS Personnel Administrator who is the agency contact for the BAYCSS Volunteer Pro-gram, shares her appreciation for the volunteers who are currently and have previously worked with the agency: “We have been really lucky in having such a great team of volunteers and couldn’t have gotten a lot of the work done around our houses without them and we are always looking for a steady stream of volunteers to help us keep up with all the odd and end jobs that need to be done.”

Potential volunteers who are interested in learning more about the volunteer opportunities with BAYCSS should visit the Volunteer Page on the BAYCSS Website at www.baycss.org/volunteer.html where you will be able to learn about the current positions available and download the agency’s Volunteer Application.

Completed applications may be faxed to BAYCSS at (301) 863-8891. For more information about the BAYCSS Volunteer Program, please contact April Krauth at (301) 863-8870, ext 25 or Brandy Blackstone at (301) 863-8870, ext. 44, or visit our website at www.baycss.org.

Community

Residents of St. Mary’s County have an unprecedented opportunity to participate in a historic study that has the po-tential to change the face of cancer for future generations. Men and women between the ages of 30 and 65 who have never been diagnosed with cancer are needed to participate in the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3). CPS-3 will enroll a diverse population of up to half a million people across the United States and Puerto Rico. The opportunity for local residents to enroll in CPS-3 will take place at the Relay For Life of St. Mary’s County on June 9, 2012.

These volunteers will help researchers better understand the lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer.

“Cancer is just more and more prevalent in our world; I've lost friends, family members, and an employee to vari-ous cancers. If my personal lifestyle information can help de-termine why some people don't get cancer, I definitely want to contribute to this research—as should all adults who are cancer free,” Sue Lyddon-Hayes, a CPS-3 Participant and a member of the Relay For Life of St. Mary’s County Planning Committee said in a press release.

To enroll in the study, individuals complete two steps, one in person and one at home. As part of the in-person en-rollment, individuals complete a brief written survey, have their waist measured, sign an informed consent, and give a small blood sample. The enrollment process is complete when individuals complete the more comprehensive baseline sur-vey. Over the course of the study – which is anticipated to last 20 to 30 years – participants will be asked to fill out follow-up surveys every few years that will be sent to their home.

“Many individuals diagnosed with cancer struggle to an-swer the question, ‘What caused my cancer?’ In many cases, we don’t know the answer,” said Alpa V. Patel, Ph.D., principal investigator of CPS-3. “CPS-3 will help us better understand what factors cause cancer, and once we know that, we can be better equipped to prevent cancer.” Dr. Patel added, “Our previous cancer prevention studies have been instrumental in helping us identify some of the major factors that can affect cancer risk. CPS-3 holds the best hope of identifying new and emerging cancer risks, and we can only do this if members of the community are willing to become involved.”

Researchers will use the data from CPS-3 to build on evi-dence from a series of American Cancer Society studies that began in the 1950s that collectively have involved millions of volunteer participants. The Hammond-Horn Study and pre-vious Cancer Prevention Studies (CPS-I, and CPS-II) have played a major role in understanding cancer prevention and risk, and have contributed significantly to the scientific basis and development of public health guidelines and recommen-dations. Those studies confirmed the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer, demonstrated the link between larger waist size and increased death rates from cancer and other causes, and showed the considerable impact of air pollu-tion on heart and lung conditions. The current study, CPS-II, began in 1982 and is still ongoing. But changes in lifestyle and in the understanding of cancer in the more than two decades since its launch make it important to begin a new study.

The initial enrollment process takes about 30 minutes at the local event and an additional 45 to 60 minutes at home to fill out the more comprehensive baseline survey. Periodic follow-up surveys of various lengths are expected to be sent every few years to individuals. The voluntary, long-term commitment by participants is what will produce benefits for decades to come. “Taking an hour or so every few years to fill out a survey – and potentially save someone from being diagnosed with cancer in the future - is a commitment that thousands of volunteer participants have already made. We're looking for more like-minded individuals in St. Mary’s Coun-ty to join this effort that we know will save lives and improve the outlook for future generations,” said Dr. Patel.

For more information or to learn how to become involved with CPS-3, visit cancer.org/cps3, email cps3@cancer org, or call toll-free 1-888-604-5888.

The St. Mary’s Board of County Commissioners and the Museum Division of the Department of Recreation and Parks will host its annual Maryland Day program at the St. Clement’s Island Museum on Sunday, March 25 beginning at 2 p.m.

This commemorative program honors the first Mary-landers who founded the Maryland colony at St. Clem-ent’s Island on March 25, 1634. This event is free and open to the public.

The one-hour program will feature comments by the St. Mary’s County Board of County Commissioners and keynote speaker, local author and historian Dr. Ralph Eshelman. To commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812, Dr. Eshelman will weave his keynote address to include the role of St. Mary’s County in this historic mili-tary conflict.

A wreath-laying ceremony will follow the com-memorative program at the St. Clement’s Island historical marker. A dessert reception inside the museum will con-clude the program. In the event of inclement weather, this outdoor program will be held inside the museum; space will be limited.

Maryland Day also marks the beginning of the sum-mer season for the St. Clement’s Island Museum and the Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum and Historic Park in Piney Point. Both museums will be open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

The St. Clement’s Island Museum is located at 38370 Point Breeze Road in Colton’s Point at the end of route 242 south. The museum and grounds are handicap accessible. For more information call the museum at 301-769-2222 or log on to www.stmarysmd.com/recreate/museums.

Metcom to Install “Smart” Water Meters

County to Commemorate Maryland Founding

New Volunteer Opportunities Available

Locals Called On to Help

Historic Cancer Research Effort

Thursday, March 8, 2012 22The County TimesW

hat’s

Going OnIn Entertainment

Thursday, March 8Live Music: “Groove Span Trio”The Blue Dog Saloon (7940 Port Tobacco Road, Port Tobacco) – 9 p.m.

Live Music: “No Green JellyBeanz”Ruddy Duck Brewery (13200 Dow-ell Road, Dowell) – 7:30 p.m.

Live Music: “Gretchen Richie: The Songs of Cole Porter”Cafe Des Artistes (41655 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown) – 6 p.m.

Open Mic NightJake & Al’s Chophouse (258 Town Square Drive, Lusby) – 9 p.m.

Free Comedy Show feat. Joe ReccaDB McMillan’s (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 8:30 p.m.

Friday, March 9BECA Benefit: Dinner, Dance & Auction w/ Live Music: “Geezer”Bowles Farm (22880 Budd’s Creek Road, Clements) – 6 p.m.

“Wounded Warrior Fundraiser Acoustic Show: The Sam Grow Band”Vera’s White Sands Beach Club (1200 White Sands Drive, Lusby) – 7 p.m.

Live Music: “Hyjinx”Big Dogs Paradise (28765 Three Notch Road, Mechanicsville) – 9 p.m.

Live Music: “The Naked Jam Band”The Blue Dog Saloon (7940 Port Tobacco Road, Port Tobacco) – 9:30 p.m.

Live Music: “Full Steam”Memories Nightclub and Bar (2360 Old Washington Road, Waldorf) – 9:30 p.m.

Live Music: “The Justin Cren-shaw Band”Apehangers Bar and Grill (9100 Crain Highway, Bel Alton) – 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 10Live Music: “The Piranhas”Jake & Al’s Chophouse (258 Town Square Drive, Lusby) – 9 p.m.

Live Music: “Three Day Ride”Dew Drop Inn (23966 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood) – 9 p.m.

Live Music: “Legend”Big Dogs Paradise (28765 Three Notch Road, Mechanicsville) – 9 p.m.

Live Music: “Renegade Country”Ruddy Duck Brewery (13200 Dow-ell Road, Dowell) – 8 p.m.

Live Music: “Split Decision w/ Sum Bich”Hotel Charles (15110 Burnt Store Road, Hughesville) – 9 p.m.

Live Music: “A Day Off Earth”Island Bar and Crab House (16810 Piney Point Rd., Piney Point) – 7:30 p.m.

Live Music: “Switch”Cryer’s Back Road Inn (22094 Newtowne Neck Road, Leonard-town) – 9 p.m.

Live Music: “No Green JellyBeanz”Vera’s White Sands Beach Club (1200 White Sands Drive, Lusby) – 9:30 p.m.

Live Music: “R & R Train”Hole In the Wall Tavern (24702 Sot-terley Road, Hollywood) – 9 p.m.

Sunday, March 11Live Music: “Country Memories Band”Vera’s White Sands Beach Club

(1200 White Sands Drive, Lusby) – 3 p.m.

Live Music: Bluegrass Legend “Larry Sparks”American Legion Post 238 (6265 Brandywine Road, Hughesville) – 2 p.m.

Live Music: “The Piranhas- Sunday Jam”Cookie’s Hometown Sports Bar and Grill (41566 Medleys Neck Road, Leonardtown) – 4 p.m. (Formerly Fat Boys Country Store)

Dave Norris CD Release PartyLeonardtown Arts Center (22660 Washington Street, Leonardtown) – 11 a.m.

“Celtic Society of So. Md.: Irish Session”DB McMillan’s (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 1:30 p.m.

Monday, March 12Open Mic NightRustic River Bar and Grill (40874 Merchants Lane, Leonardtown) – 5 p.m.

Tuesday, March 13Live Music: “Fair Warning”DB McMillan’s (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 5 p.m.

Open Mic NightRuddy Duck Brewery (13200 Dowell Road, Dowell) – 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, March 14Comedy Night feat. Lucas BohnMartini’s Lounge (10553 Theo-dore Green Boulevard, White Plains) – 8 p.m.

Live Music: “Mason Sebastian”DB McMillan’s (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 5 p.m.

Live Music: “HydraFX Acoustic”ABC Lounge (22741 Three Notch Road, California) – 9 p.m.

THE CALVERT COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT


Thursday, March 8• Zumba Fitness ClassesHollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad (43256 Rescue Lane, Hollywood) – 5:45 p.m.

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Cost is $7 per class or $25 for five classes. Proceeds benefit Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad. For information call 301-757-2336.

• Outback Steakhouse Fundraising Luncheon Wildewood Outback Steakhouse (23415 Three Notch Road, California) – 11:30 a.m.

Walden Sierra asks community mem-bers for their support and attendance at Walden’s annual fundraising luncheon at the Outback Steakhouse. Tickets are $20 each, and patrons have their choice of an entrée of steak, chicken, salmon or vegetar-ian pasta. All meals are served with rice, salad, drink and dessert…as well as a side of help and hope for individuals healing from trauma and addiction! Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door. Res-ervations are requested. Reservations can be made by contacting Laura at 301-997-1300, extension 804 or [email protected] by Wednesday March 7. For those wishing to pay for their reservation or make a donation to Walden on-line, secure access is available by clicking on the Do-nate Now button from Walden’s website, www.waldensierra.org.

Friday, March 9• Tidewater School Open HouseTidewater School (120 Cox Road, Hunting-town) – 1 p.m.

The Tidewater School will be hosting an open house. Call 301-257-0533 for more information.

• The Patuxent River Sail and Power Squadron MeetingMixing Bowl (21797 N Coral Drive, Lexing-ton Park) – 5:30 p.m.

The Patuxent River Sail and Power Squadron Meeting will hold its monthly meeting at the Mixing Bowl in Lexington Park. At this meeting the squadron will create the list summer boating activities. For Infor-mation call Clare Whitbeck at 301-475-8014.

Saturday, March 10• Second Saturday Series - “Women of Sotterley”Sotterley Plantation (44300 Sotterley Lane, Hollywood) – 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Discover the women of Sotterley.

Whether it was the mistress of the house, the farm manager’s wife, the heiress, or the en-slaved servants, the women of Sotterley were fascinating people who lived extraordinary lives. Advanced reservations only. $15 per person. Limited to 20 people per tour. Walk-ing required. Call for reservations. The snow date is March 17.

• PAWS St. Patrick’s DayPetsmart (10400 Southern Maryland Boule-vard, Dunkirk) – 11 a.m.

Comments: The Patuxent Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) will be hosting St. Pawtrick’s Day at the brand new Petsmart in Dunkirk on Saturday, March 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come meet Charlie, Annie, Rose, Lily and Samson dressed up in their Irish best! PAWS is a 501C 3 non-profit animal rescue group operating in Calvert County. Our dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped and can be adopted for $160. Please view the dogs that will be at the event at www.petfinder.com/shelters/MD69.html. If you have any questions, please call Lynne at 301-233-6440. We hope our great dogs have the Luck of the Irish at this event and find their forever homes! We may even have some new additions by then!

• Contra DanceChrist Episcopal Church Parish Hall (37497 Zach Fowler Road, Chaptico) – 7 p.m.

A Contra Dance sponsored by Southern MD Traditional Music and Dance, featuring caller Eva Murray, will be held on Saturday, March 10. Eva was featured in the January 19 “First Person Singular” article in the Wash-ington Post Magazine, talking about being a Contra Dance). The doors open at 7 p.m. and the dancing begins at 7:30 p.m. Contra is a traditional American style of social dance and is a huge amount of fun and exercise. If you’ve ever danced a Virginia Reel or been to a Square Dance, you have a good idea how much fun it can be. If you haven’t, it’s about time you tried it! Beginners are encouraged to arrive at 7 p.m. to get some instruction in the various dances. Admission is $8 for non SMTMD members, $6 for members. Band members are free. No fancy or outlandish clothing is required. You need to be com-fortable, to move freely. There will be an ice cream social following the dance. For more information and directions go to www.smt-md.org.

Sunday, March 11• Larry Sparks ConcertAmerican Legion (6265 Brandywine Road, Hughesville) – 2 p.m.

American Legion Bluegrass Series will end the season with the return of a Second

Generation Bluegrass Legend-Larry Sparks. The International Bluegrass Music Associa-tion’s (IBMA), two-time Male Vocalist of the Year, Larry Sparks and his band will end the winter Bluegrass series. Audiences beyond the hardest of the Bluegrass hard-core have come to know Larry Sparks’ music. It has be-come clear that within Bluegrass music there are only a small handful of major stylists. Larry Sparks is one of the few who has cre-ated a style while remaining true to the best traditions of bluegrass. Tickets are $15.

Monday, March 12• Books, Coffee & ConversationLeonardtown Library (23250 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown) – 1 p.m.

Adults can drop in and enjoy light re-freshments and engaging conversation. They can share books they have read or listened to. For more information, call 301-475-2846.

Tuesday, March 13• Tools for Planning your FutureJames A. Forrest Career & Technology Center (24005 Point Lookout Road, Leonar-dtown) – 8:30 a.m.

The conference will provide attendees with the tools needed to plan for access to long-term care in their future. A series of professional speakers will present key ele-ments on topics including: a legal overview of public and private guardianship; long-term care funding; Medicare at age 65; under-standing services in long-term care facilities, life in a nursing facility, planning for well-ness; and exercise and aging with tai chi. The program will conclude with guidelines for self development of an individual plan of care. Cost $20 per person; plus $5 if CEUs needed. Contact Kathy Goodspeed or Mindy Carter at 301-475-4200, ext. 1050 for a reg-istration form. Pre-registration a must, dead-line is Friday, March 9th.

Wednesday, March 14• Mid-Week Lenten ServicesShepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church (9463 HG Trueman Road, Lusby) – 7 p.m

Mid-Week Lenten Services will be held every Wednesday in March from 7-8 p.m. at Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church at 9463 HG Trueman Road, Lusby. For more information call 410-231-2075 or visit www.shepherdofthebay.com

Thursday, March 15• Zumba Fitness ClassesHollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad (43256 Rescue Lane, Hollywood) – 5:45 p.m.

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Cost is $7 per class or $25 for five classes. Proceeds benefit Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad. For information call 301-757-2336.

Friday, March 16• Sotterley’s Lore and Legends TourSotterley Plantation (44300 Sotterley Lane, Hollywood - 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Sotterley’s Legends and Lore Tours are back with a whole new twist! There is noth-ing like a good yarn, and Sotterley, with three centuries of people living on this site, has many exciting and entertaining stories that have been passed on over the years. Ghosts? Well, of course! “Way back when” stories and recent experiences from those close to Sotterley will be shared. Storytelling at its finest, this presentation will bring out the storyteller in you! Advance reservations only. Tickets are $15 per person and limited to 20 per tour. Walking is required. Purchase tickets online at www.sotterley.org.

• St. Mary’s County Friends of the Li-brary Annual Book Sale

The Friends of the Library 2012 Annual Spring Book Sale will be held March 16 to 18 at the fairgrounds in Leonardtown. The March 16, hours are from 1 to 8 p.m. and are for Friends of the Library members only, with membership information available at the door.

The sale is open to all March 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and March 18, from 12 to 3 p.m.

Those interested in helping before, dur-ing, or after the sale may call 301-863-9368 or email [email protected].

Saturday, March 17• Ham and Cabbage DinnerRidge Volunteer Rescue Squad (16515 Three Notch Road, Ridge) – 4 p.m.

Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad and Auxiliary are hosting a Ham and Cabbage dinner

• Basket BingoMechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department (28165 Hills Club Road, Mechanicsville) – 5 p.m.

The Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire De-partment Ladies Auxiliary will be hosting a Basket Bingo. All proceeds to benefit the Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department and Auxiliary. Doors open at 5 p.m. with games beginning at 6 p.m. For more informa-tion or to make reservations contact Judy at 301-884-5680 or log onto the website www.mvfd.com

Thompson’sSeafood Corner Market(301) 884-5251Fax (301) 884-2920

Fish DinnerCrab Cake Dinner

Hot Crab SoupSteamed Shrimp

Snow Legs: CookedFresh Rock & Perch: Cleaned & Cooked

All types of Seafood PlattersOpen Tuesday - Sunday

Fish Specials

Call In to

Pick Up

Budd’s Creek, MD

Admission:Pits: $25 • General: $12

Under 12 FREE

Gates Open at 5 p.m.Warm-Ups: 7:30 p.m.

Racing: 8 p.m.

Limited Late ModelStreet StockHobby StockModifieds50 Lap StrictlyStock Special

OPENING DAY

March 16th


Loose Jam, Tight Talent: Car 54 & Friends

The County Times is always looking for more local talent to feature! To submit art or band information for our entertainment section,

e-mail [email protected].

410-FYI-DUCK • www.RuddyDuckBrewery.comSOLOMONS, MARYLAND • Dowell Rd and Route 4

LIVE MUSIC this week at the Duck!! Thursday: No Green Jelly Beenz

NO Cover! Starting at 7:30pmThirsty Thursday Specials 3-7pm!

Friday: The PIRANHASNO Cover!!! Starting at 8pm!

Happy hour 3-7pm

Saturday: Renegade CountryStarting at 8pm

Grab your cowboy hat and line dance on over!!


Billy Yeager and Dane Robey have been playing music together for a dozen years or so. With their band, Car 54, they’ve had several line-ups, starting out playing originals, then transforming into a party band playing cover songs. The lat-est version is the two musicians, offering their veteran talents as an acoustic act.

On Saturday, the duo played Fat Boys Country Store, with a little help from their friends. Lead singer Yeager had, for the first time in his lengthy musi-cal career, experienced laryngitis the pre-vious week. Wanting to make sure they didn’t disappoint the audience, he called on young singer-songwriter Dylan Gal-

vin and local beat legend Russell “Rusty” Williams to share the stage with he and his long-time musical cohort Robey.

The results were a loose jam that showcased all of the performers’ talents and the veteran duo’s comfort and confi-dence on stage.

Robey explained to The County Times that he and Yeager have played to-gether so long, there’s no practicing or set lists, they simply vibe off each other on stage and have fun playing music.

With a day job and two kids, plus coaching, Robey, of Hughesville, said he’s happy with where his music has tak-en him and the more scaled back version of Car 54 of the present day.

In the past, he and Yeager said, the group booked a lot of shows and traveled

a lot to support the popular party band. Yeager gained a reputation for wild stage antics, often, losing several pounds each night due to his high-energy performanc-es, he said.

Yeager too is now a father, resid-ing in Leonardtown, and is happy for the slower pace of things, adding the work of coordinating and performing so many shows while trying to manage a family became strenuous.

“These days,” he said, “Dane and I are just a couple of Southern Maryland guys who work for a living, happen to have a little bit of musical talent and enjoy the acoustic, free-styling type of shows.”

He drank honey, straight from a little plastic bear, throughout the night to soothe his throat, while singing, jok-ing and sharing some off-the-wall dance moves with the audience.

Robey said Yeager knows how to work a crowd and has taken several young, talented musicians in the area un-der his wing and helped them build con-fidence and stage presence.

Galvin, who had never previously played with Car 54, shared his impressive skills on guitar and vocals during Satur-day’s lengthy jam session. Playing lesser-known songs like Paul Simon’s “50 Ways To Leave Your Lover” and Bob Marley’s “Stir It Up”, as well as joining in with Yeager in several medleys which melded everything from rap to rock to country, Galvin seemed to enjoy the experience.

He shares the stage with Rusty Wil-liams, a percussionist who creates in-

vigorating beats by hand on bongos and a cajon, along with another Southern Maryland musician, Justin Myles, in the band Rusty in the Middle. Williams is an esteemed studio musician who has played with many big-name acts including Car-los Santana.

He shared his rap talents at one point during the show, busting out the “Fresh Prince of BelAir” theme, in its entirety.

Russell and Galvin offered up a unique version of Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel” and later jammed along with Robey and Yeager to Tom Petty, John Mellencamp and Third Eye Blind.

Though the set performed was un-structured, musically it was triumphant. As 1 a.m. approached, the musicianship continued to be top-notch as all four mu-sicians on the stage tightened up what be-gan as a loose, acoustic jam of Pearl Jam’s “Black.”

Yeager said he’s amazed with the vol-ume of raw talent in Southern Maryland and likes to encourage young musicians to pursue their dreams. While Car 54 may have hit its peak, Yeager and Robey both said they have a lot of fun with the acous-tic performances and still play to the big crowds occasionally, like for their upcom-ing St. Patrick’s Day show at James Hol-bans Irish Pub in D.C., where Yeager said there may be a crowd of 2,000 or more.

For more details on Car54, find them on Facebook at Car Fivefour Acoustic or call 240-299-8866.

[email protected]

Photos by Carrie Munn


Prime Rib • Seafood • Sunday BrunchBanquet & Meeting Facilities

23418 Three Notch Road • California, MD 20619www.lennys.net

301-737-0777

301-866-0777 Pub & Grill23415 Three Notch Road

California Maryland

9 Days Till St. Patrick’s Daywww.dbmcmillans.com

Entertainment All Day

23415 Three Notch Rd. • Suite #2033A • California, MD 20619

Monday - Friday: 10 am - 7 pmSaturday: 10 am - 3 pm • Sunday: CLOSED

46924 Shangri-La Drive Lexington Park, MD 20653

301-863-9497

Let me plan your next vacation!

Shirley [email protected]

Est. 1982 Lic #12999

Heating & Air Conditioning

“THE HEAT PUMP PEOPLE”30457 Potomac WayCharlotte Hall, MD 20622Phone: 301-884-5011

snheatingac.com

Want Personal Local Service?

Stocks • Bonds • Mutual Funds • IncomeMary Clifton

Financial Advisor

Accepting 2011-12 IRA ContributionsRollovers & Consolidations

Complimentary Consultation301-884-4575 • Mechanicsville, MD

Cross & WoodAssoCiAtes, inC.

Serving The Great Southern Maryland Counties since 1994Employer/Employee Primary Resource Consultants

Group & IndividualHealth, Dental, Vision, AFLAC, Life, Long Term Care,

Short & Long Term Disability,Employer & Employee Benefits Planning

Phone 301-884-59001-800 524-2381

12685 Amberleigh LaneLa Plata, MD 20646

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

28231 Three Notch Rd, #101Mechanicsville, MD 20659

DireCToryBusiness

Classifieds

The County Times will not be held responsible for any ads omitted for any reason. The County Times reserves the right to edit or reject any classified ad not meeting the standards of The County Times. It is your respon-siblity to check the ad on its first publication and call us if a mistake is found. We will correct your ad only if notified after the first day the first publication ran.

Important

To Place a Classified Ad, please email your ad to: [email protected] or Call: 301-373-4125 or Fax: 301-373-4128 for a price quote. Of-fice hours are: Monday thru Friday 8am - 4pm. The County Times is published each Thursday.

Deadlines for Classifieds are Tuesday at 12 pm.

Real Estate

Beautiful NEW 3 level townhome is located in the WILLOWGATE

community, 1 mile from Patuxent Naval Air Station, close to Solomon’s Island and St. Mary’s City. 3 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, completely finished basement includes den + rec room + full bath, great yard,

nice community. 1.870 FINISHED square feet - just $185,600!!! VA and FHA

financing available. Mortgage payment is less than most rent in this area. Seller

will contribute toward closing costs + ask about Military Incentives. VA buyers may

buy for no money! The sales office and model home are open daily from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Please call or visit soon! 301-866-0808. Price: $185,600.

2.44 Acres in Mechanicsville. Lot is fully wooded and ready to be cleared. Property is ready to be built on. Lot is secluded and

sets off the main road. Property is quiet and private. Approved perc. Plat is avaliable upon request. Asking price $99,000/obo. Willing to negotiate any offers. Any questions, feel

free to ask. E-Mail: [email protected] or call Matt at 443-532-6936.

Attention Residents

Apartment Rentals

Large, cozy, fully furnished bedroom for rent in Lexington Park - 5 minutes from PAX! Our home is nestled in a quiet cul-

de-sac in the Southwoods subdivision. Rent includes; Fully furnished room (Queen

size bed, 32” flatscreen TV, dresser), house privileges, wireless internet, cable, utilities,

cleaning service and driveway parking. We’re down to earth people and wish to

find the same. Room is for one Professional adult. If interested, email: [email protected]. Security Clearance person preferred. No allergies to pets.

Employment

Drivers: Getting Home is Easier. Chromed out trucks w/APU’s. Chromed out pay package!

90% Drop & Hook. CDL-A, 6mos Exp. (888) 247- 4037

Attention to the residents of Wildewood Apartments

at California, Maryland!

I would like to hear from any resident that has unresolved

maintenance problems and if anyone has/had tobacco smoke leaking into

your apartment from other apartments.

Please contact me at [email protected]


A Thrifty Adventure

CLUES ACROSS 1. Bay Area Transit Auth. (abbr.) 5. Pull apart by force 9. Ancient Egyptian King 12. Missing soldiers 13. Capital of Japan 14. Diamond month (abbr.) 15. Spheres 16. Surpassing good 17. British thermal unit 18. Philippine island & seaport 19. Legally argued 20. Belonging to singer Fitzgerald 22. Bowler hats 24. Has a strong odor 25. Doyens 26. London Gallery 27. Rural delivery 28. Rods 31. Stonhenge plain 33. Withdraw from membership 34. Execute or perform 35. Central or Yellowstone 36. Municipality in Norway 39. Bay of NW Rep. of Ireland 40. Skin designs 42. Son of Jephunneh

43. Baseball’s Ruth 44. Clare Booth __, Am. writer 46. Black tropical American cuckoo 47. Filled with fear or apprehension 49. 6th Jewish month 50. Wide metal vessel used in cooking 51. Make by pouring into a cast 52. Colombian city 53. Heat unit 54. Carpenter, red and army 55. Adam and Eve’s garden

CLUES DOWN 1. Big man on campus 2. Made public by radio or television 3. Labelled 4. Inform positively 5. Drinks habitually 6. Supplemented with difficulty 7. SW Scottish river & port 8. American poet 1874-1963

9. Pads 10. Ingestion or intake 11. Tie up a bird before cooking 13. Bulrushes of the genus Scirpus 16. Turned rod on a spinning wheel 21. Having or covered with leaves 23. The 44th U.S. President 28. Midway between S and SE 29. Tuberculosis (abbr.) 30. Inspected accounting procedures 31. A twilled woolen fabric 32. Potato state 33. The work of a sailor 35. Involving 2 dimensions 36. Fanatical or overzealous 37. Consolation 38. Wild sheep of northern Africa 39. Erect leafless flower-bear-ing stalk 40. Afrikaans 41. Weighing device 43. Very dry champagne 45. Emerald Isle 48. A resident of Benin

Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions

erKiddieKor n


By Linda RenoContributing Writer

Michael Drury, continued.

Elizabeth Joy, refuted the testimony of Clare (Walker) Johnson saying she was often

at Mr. Drury’s house and that sometimes when he might drink “a little too much, he would tear his clothes” but she didn’t recall him taking off all of his clothes and wrapping up in blankets. She also said that when his granddaughter, Roseanna Drury came to his house he recognized her “after he got up and looked at her.”

James Yates, nephew of Michael Yates, said he didn’t believe his uncle was capable of making a will; that he had seen him drinking too much on a number of occasions and then his mind was even worse; and that sometimes, in the presence of oth-ers, he would “answer the call to nature without making use of the chamber pot.”

Enoch Millard said he wrote Mr. Drury’s will at his direction. When he was asked how Mr. Drury meant to dispose of his property, he said he meant to leave it to Dolly and Caty, his daughters. Doro-thy was the wife of Ignatius Joy and Caty lived in Prince George’s County. He said that since Dolly was the oldest, she should have her choice and he supposed her choice would be the home place and to give the land bought from Willy [Fenwick] to Caty and saying “you know all about it because you bought it for me.” (In 1813, Millard had brokered a deal to buy a small parcel of land for Mr. Drury

from William Fenwick who had moved to Medley’s Neck).

Mr. Millard said he read the will to Mr. Drury and that he seemed to “perfectly understand it….the will was executed by Mr. Drury in the pres-ence of the witnesses.”

Millard said that later in 1825 he was called upon to write another will for Mr. Drury, but when he arrived he found Mr. Drury being assisted by a priest in preparation for death and did not write the will since Mr. Drury was so low. Mr. Millard said he then went to his sister’s house and recalled Mrs. Johnson was there and he may have said Mr. Drury was unfit at that time to make a will.

He also related that some time in 1825 he was sent for to superintend a survey between the prop-erty of Dr. Richard Edelen and Mr. Drury as the re-sult of a dispute between them. “Mr. Drury seemed more feeble than usual and could not recall infor-mation we had discussed many times before about the line…and when they were leaving the house, Mr. Drury said in a very low tone of voice take care of me.”

Mr. Millard concluded by saying that Mr. Drury was of sound mind and was capable of mak-ing a valid will; he was blind, but recognized Mil-lard by his voice; and that his sight had been affect-ed by his old age.

The court ordered that the will of Michael Drury as written on February 14, 1825 be submit-ted for probate.

A Journey Through TimeA Journey Through TimeThe ChronicleWanderings

A Thrifty Adventure

By Shelby OppermannContributing Writer

I have been on a hunt for a used toaster oven for a few months. Some of the jewelry I’m making now requires heating the resin glaze in an oven, and of course it is suggested that you don’t use an oven, which will also be used for food. There are so many new and fun ways to create. And so many ways to occupy my mind.

Needless to say I think I have visited every Good Will, Vintage Val-ues, and Hooks and Hangars stores in three counties. I know there are the really nice $50 toaster ovens, but I won’t use it except for the jewelry. I will keep hunting for a while. The hunt is fun and I find many other things that I really think I need. I have found more ceramic yard bunnies – though still on the lookout for the squirrels.

A few nice pair of pants have found their way into our home, and a few shirts I can wear to work. I know, I know, I have been on a purge at home, and I do drop off three or four times more than I pick up. A spring form pan was an exciting find a few weeks back, but my $2 find wasn’t as exciting when I got it home. It was rusty on the rim – in the inner part that rolls. A constant stream of rusty smelling water kept draining out, and the spring form part didn’t fit the flat pan correctly. Off to the recycling bag that went. Some books have been lots of fun to read, then they go back to the thrift store again afterwards. I get the pleasure and they get the profit – good all around.

Now, I have found a new place to hunt near home. Every morning when I passed through the Clements Dip (where Routes 234 and 242 cross) I have looked over at the Clement’s Corner gas station and a sign that said “Thrift Store.” I get gas there quite often, but never seemed to have the time to stop and explore. The little food wagon, which sits outside, intrigued me. Finally one morning I thought, well I’m running early let me just stop and see what they have.

What a fun shop, and the two gentlemen that run the place are so friendly and talkative. Well…so am I…the talkative part I suppose. They told me to keep coming back because more is coming, and they will pump your gas for you too. Does anyone remember that. I think Ridgells in Oakville is the only other gas station that has full serve anymore. Where the mechanic bays once were is a pretty large thrift shop with all sorts of odds and ends, all sorts of treasures. No toaster oven yet but I will keep checking back. I still want to get that three-tier fruit holder for $3. You can still smell the oil and grease from years of mechanics working on cars. I love that smell – it reminds me of my Father who worked on brakes most of his life at May’s Brake Service in Bladensburg.

I love the little village of Clements with Anderson’s Bar, where we’ve spent many fun nights after softball games. I remember getting dragged on the floor to sing karaoke one night, and having a little Boones Farm Apple Wine with my best friend and singing and dancing with the juke box another time. Abell’s diner, on the other end of the building, has the best-creamed chipped beef (growing up I always thought it was called cream chick beef for some reason) and huge cheese omelets. And you have a barbershop, an interior designer, Mr. Moreland the accountant, and Guy’s NAPA auto parts store, another place that smells really good to me. Maybe I should have been a mechanic. Though I don’t think I would have liked working in cold areas and getting perma-grease under my nails.

The newest thing I’ve noticed in Clements is in the second story win-dows of the old Hurry and Anderson’s store. Next time you drive by look up. You might be a little startled. Two of the windows have watchers; a doll in one and what looks like a mannequin in the other. I gave a start when I first saw them, but now I like to see them. I’d like to think of them as watch-ing to make sure everything stays as it is at Clements; a simpler time…and hopefully for a toaster oven.

To each new day’s adventure, Shelby

Please send your comments or ideas to: [email protected]

Aimless Mind

of an

Library items

CAT OF THE WEEK

Volunteers are needed for Friends book saleThe Friends of the Library will hold its annual

spring book sale Mar. 16 through Mar. 18 at the coun-ty fairgrounds. The sale will be from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday for Friends members only with member-ships available at the door. It will be open to the pub-lic on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 noon to 3 p.m.

Volunteers are needed this Saturday, Mar. 10, at 10 a.m. to move books from the Leonardtown library to the fairgrounds. Volunteers are also needed each day starting Mar. 12 to help sort books and prepare for the sale. Individuals wishing to volunteer should contact Jill Zitnick at 301-863-9368 or [email protected].

Libraries celebrate release of The Hunger Games movie

The Hunger Games movie, the first film of the trilogy based on novels by Susanne Collins, will be released March 23. Teens can celebrate on Mar. 20 at 5:30 p.m. at Leonardtown branch, on Mar. 22 at 5:30 p.m. at Lexington Park branch and on Mar. 23 at 3 p.m. at Charlotte Hall branch. Teens should come

sporting their districts’ wear and be ready to test their survival skills and trivia knowledge. The programs are free. Registration is required.

Adults invited for coffee

Adults can come for coffee and engaging con-versation at the Books, Coffee and Conversation to be held at the Leonardtown branch on Mar.12 at 1 p.m., the Lexington Park branch on Mar. 20 at 10:30 a.m. and the Charlotte Hall on Mar. 29 at 10:30 a.m. Books read or listened to will be shared.

Online genealogy sites to be exploredAdults can register for a class in which they will

explore free Internet sites to start their genealogy search. The class will be held at the Lexington Park branch on Mar. 19 at 5:30 p.m. and will also cover the library’s genealogy databases, Social Security Death Index and the Census. Knowledge of the Internet is necessary.

Charlotte Hall library is offering basic computer training this month on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Adults will be introduced to computers on Mar. 8, Windows on Mar. 15, Internet on Mar. 22, and email on Mar. 29. . Leonardtown library is offering an Introduction to the Internet on Mar. 19 at 2 p.m. Registration is required for each of these classes.

Sultry Sylvia Here For Adoption -FREE TO APPROVED HOME I have been in a foster home for a year and a half and I keep hoping that someone will think I am beautiful and give me a home. I am a little shy so I don't show very well at Petco. I am not a lap cat but I do love to be loved. I will bump my head into your forehead or into your chin. I love to be petted and I look up at my foster mom with adoring eyes. I enjoy sitting out on the "catio" as my foster mom calls it instead of the patio. It is a giant screened porch and I sit out there and watch the birds and the world go by. I also love to be held by my foster mom and to be petted. If you would like to foster me so that you could get to know me and see what a love I am then please go to www.feral-catrescuemd.org and fill out an application. You can email it to my foster mom at [email protected]

Sitting patiently and waiting for you, Sylvia


SENIOR LIVING

Visit the Department of Aging’s website at www.stmarysmd.com/aging for the most up-to date information.

St. Mary’s Dept of AgingPrograms and Activities

Lunch with a Leprechaun!On Thursday, March 15, at noon, enjoy an Irish dish of

shepherd’s pie with seasoned cabbage, dinner roll, salad and shortbread cookies for lunch at the Northern Senior Activ-ity Center. A special guest appearance will be made by a Leprechaun who will join us for lunch. Photo ops will be available following the noontime meal. Make your lunch reservations before noon on Wednesday, March 14 by call-ing 301.475.4002, ext. 1001. The cost for lunch is by donation for seniors 60 and older; $5 for individuals under 60.

Scripture Study at Loffler Senior Activity CenterThe next scripture study at Loffler is Friday, March 16

at 10 a.m. Stop in and find out what comfort the scriptures has to offer you. For more information call 301.737.5670 ext. 1658.

Wearin’ of the Green Bash at O’GarveyFor the luck of the Irish, join us at the Garvey Senior

Activity Center on Thursday, March 15 at noon for our An-nual St. Patrick’s Day bash! Enjoy a meal of tossed salad with dressing, shepherd’s pie, seasoned cabbage, shortbread cookies with mint chocolate chip ice cream, apple juice/milk/coffee/tea. Irish tunes to be performed by John Pomer-ville, singer of traditional Celtic, Irish, and Scottish pub tunes. Cost for lunch is by donation for those ages 60 and above and $5.00 for those under the age of 60. To make res-ervations, call 301.475.4200, ext. 1050. Remember to wear your lucky green!

Brain-e-ologyLosing memory or cognitive ability is a tremendous

fear but there is growing evidence that cognitive ability can be maintained or even improved to the end of life! The Brain-e-ology program offered at the Garvey Senior Activ-

ity Center on Wednesdays, March 14 – April 25 at 10:00 a.m. is designed to:

• dispel the limiting myths of memory loss and aging• give participants a better understanding of how their brain works.• give participants the tools to incorporate brain fitness ac-tivities into their daily lives• create open minds

More than 90% of participants report that they feel like

they have more control over future memory loss after taking this program! Class size is limited so register early. To make reservations call 301.475.4200, ext. 1050.

Smart Online ShoppingLearn how to safely buy the best products at the low-

est prices using the Internet. This course offered at the Gar-vey Senior Activity Center on Mondays, March 12-26 from 11:00 a.m. - noon shows you how to rate various products and obtain the lowest price using well-known websites. Cost: $10.00. Space is limited so register early with the Garvey Senior Activity Center receptionist. Payment is due at the time of reservation. For more information, call 301.475.4200, ext. 1050.

Next EFT Clinic March 13 at Loffler Senior Activity Center

Considering therapy? Looking for pain management ideas? Want to try something non-intrusive and inexpen-sive? Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a self-help method of treatment based on the tenets of acupuncture but simplified to self-tapping on meridian points. The idea behind EFT is that painful memories or emotional trauma contributes heavily to disease and other physical difficulties.

This method is designed to rapidly reduce the emotional distress caused by painful memories. Once reduced sig-nificantly, or even completely, the body can often rebalance itself and accelerate healing. You can learn more about EFT on the web- eftuniverse.com is an example of a reliable site. Loffler has an EFT practitioner on site the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. Richele is a registered nurse and has been practicing EFT for several years. You can make an appointment with her by calling 240.925.4309. Walk-ins will be seen on a space-available basis. She will start out the first half hour chatting with you to assess your needs and will introduce the concepts of EFT. This initial 30 minute period is free and you are not required to continue the ses-sion if you don’t think it’s helping you. If you decide to con-tinue the cost is $45 for the next hour. For more information call 301.737.5670 ext. 1655

Two Overnight Trips Later This Year!St Mary’s County Dept. of Aging and Human Services

is sponsoring two exciting trips:Myrtle Beach- October 4 -7, 2012; 3 nights in an ocean

front room at Ocean Reef Resort; 3 breakfasts; 3 full course dinners; shopportunities, 2 full-length shows, plenty of time to relax on the beach: $660 pp double occupancy. For more information call Shellie at 301.737.5670 ext. 1655 or email: [email protected]

New York City Holiday Tour- December 7-9, 2012; 3 days/2 nights, 2 continental breakfasts, 2 family style din-ners, 2 shows (The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center and The Rockettes at Radio Center Music Hall, guided food and his-tory tour of West Village, holiday decorations tour: $900 pp double occupancy. For more information call Joyce at 301.737.5670 ext. 1656 or email: [email protected].

Loffler Senior Activity Center 301-737-5670, ext. 1652; Garvey Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4200, ext. 1050Northern Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4002, ext. 1001; Ridge Nutrition Site, 301-475-4200, ext. 1050.

www.somd.com

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

Over 250,000 Southern Marylanders

can’t be wrong!

New to the area? Lifelong resident?Stop by and see what

Southern Maryland Online has to offer!

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


AnnouncinIssued Marriage Applications for February 2012

Correction:

January 31, 2012

Timothy Nathanial Garrett 32 Upper Marlboro, Md

Stephanie Lee Ward 36 Mechanicsville, Md

-------------------

February 1, 2012

William Louis Battaglia 68 Hollywood, Md

Etta Patricia Johnson 49 Hollywood, Md

February 3, 2012

Matthew Kurk Miller 29 Mechanicsville, Md

Victoria Ann Potter 21 Mechanicsville, Md

February 6, 2012

Steven Anthony Warrick 49 Lexington Park, Md

Viveca Theresa Watkins-Yancey 53 Lexington Park, Md

February 8, 2012

McKinley Nathaniel Mackall, Jr., 32

Lexington Park, MdKendra Anne Thomas 30

Lexington Park, Md

February 9, 2012

Celester Washington 30 Hollywood, Md

Jennifer Alice Demarr 32 Hollywood, Md

Amos Samuel Milburn, Sr., 51 Lexington Park, Md

Candy Michelle Jeter 32 Lexington Park, Md

February 10, 2012

James Alexander Derenge 42 Arlington, Va

Katherine Grace Heely 32 Arlington, Va

Zachary Micah Sawyer 21 Great Mills, Md

Laketa Danee’ Spicer 20 Lexington Park, Md

February 13, 2012

Michael Stauffer Stauffer, Jr., 20 Leonardtown, Md

Juliana Martin Brubacher 19 Leonardtown, Md

Michael Edward Schroll 24 Lexington Park, Md

Stacy Renee Harrison 21 Lexington Park, Md

Michael Edward Rones 23 Lexington Park, Md

Crystal Lizabeth Spencer 26 Bellview, Fl

February 14, 2012

Steven Ray Laulis 29 Tall Timbers, Md

Rebecca Dawn Schofield 39 Tall Timbers, Md

William David McClintock 35 Silver Spring, Md

Abigail Dianne Williams 27 Silver Spring, Md

Anthony Edwin Roach 27 Mechanicsville, Md

Jessica Michelle Hodge 26 King George, VA

February 15, 2012

James Edward King, IV, 37 St. Inigoes, Md

Lannette Florence Konka 41 St. Inigoes, Md

Shawn Matthew Danaher 26 Great Mills, Md

Rachelle Ashley Reynolds 24 Leonardtown, Md

Patrick Leonard Kreamer, Jr., 32 Mechanicsville, Md

Nicole Leanna Dougherty 22 Mechanicsville, Md

February 16, 2012

Justin Gerard Cox 25 Waldorf, Md

Chuanitra Lavette Chase 30 Lexington Park, Md

Aaron David Malone 31 Lexington Park, Md

Maryam Dinparasti Saleh 27 Lexington Park, Md

February 17, 2012

Jerome Derrell Reeves 29 Lexington Park, Md

Stacie Elizabeth Payne 36 Lexington Park, Md

John Edward Trossbach 31 Clements, Md

Kelly Lynn Hancock 24 Clements, Md

Brian Robert Flynn, II, 25 Mechanicsville, Md

Destiny Amanda Sweet 25 Mechanicsville, Md

February 21, 2012

Melvin Eugene Garber 22Versailles, Mo

Debra Louise Gehman 20 Leonardtown, Md

Shawn Michael Hill 34 Mechanicsville, Md

Rachel Anne Gardiner 27 Cobb Island, Md

Ted William Taylor, Jr., 22 Solomons, Md

Victoria Irene Russell 18 Park Hall, Md

February 23, 2012

Joseph Richard Mattingly, III, 26 Mechanicsville, Md

Michelle Marie Clarke 26 Mechanicsville, Md

Thomas Garnell Frederick, Jr., 29 Hollywood, Md

Sharron Lanae Anderson 21 Hollywood, Md

Sean Andrew Caywood 37 Mechanicsville, Md

Kathleen Marie Lawrence 35 Mechanicsville, Md

February 24, 2012

Paul Andrew Prechtl 46 Great Mills, Md

Joyce Anne Harris 39 Great Mills, Md

Donald Ray McGee, Jr., 30 Chaptico, Md

Jennifer Kathleen Cahill 27 Waldorf, Md

February 27, 2012

Thomas Carroll Gordon, Jr., 30 Great Mills, Md

Shakeena Monique Jackson 25 Great Mills, Md

Francis T Edelen 49 Mechanicsville, Md

Margaret Ann Milstead 49 Mechanicsville, Md

February 29, 2012

Kelly Joe Fordham 21 Great Mills, Md

Ploumou Leigh Kanios 18 Great Mills, Md

Wayne Brubaker Martin 31 Leonardtown, Md

Brenda Elaine Stauffer 30 Mechanicsville, Md

Call The County Times to Place an Engagement Announcement - It’s Free! 301-373-4125


By Keith McGuireContributing Writer

It’s a tough time of year for a lot of an-glers, but I’m here to tell you that there are fish to be caught out there! Some refer to fishing at this time of year as “combat fishing” because doing battle with the elements is often in the cards.

Yellow perch have made their spawning runs up the tributaries to the tidal boundary and have scattered spawn all over the local streams. There are still some stragglers to be caught, but the hottest action is mostly over. Although that may be bad news to some, the good news here is that the white perch will be populating the same areas in the weeks that fol-low. In my opinion, white perch is a better tast-ing fish and you should be able to catch enough for a neighborhood fish fry using a few small jigs and minnows.

Some diehard striper fanatics have been out there all winter trying to catch and release

rockfish in the colder times of the year. From March 1st thru April 15th, more restrictions apply to catch and release striper regulations than the winter months, including restrictions in the locations where fishing is allowed and some gear restrictions. Check the regulations closely before you attempt catch and release striped bass fishing. It is the only rockfish catching that can be done between March 1st and the opening of the Spring Trophy Season on April 21st. Even though it is often a cold venture, catch and release striper fishing can be a lot of fun.

The fact that we have a preseason catch and release opportunity at all is testimonial to the success that Maryland DNR has ex-perienced in the recovery of the striped bass. Growing up and living most of my adult life in the Chesapeake region, I can tell you that there were times when we thought we had seen

the last of the striped bass. After the 5-year moratorium between 1985 and 1990, catching a striper seemed like a once-in-a-lifetime ex-perience when a meager rockfish population offered the first restrictive fall season.

Last summer MD DNR conducted their annual “young-of-year” survey – a method they use to determine the success of striped bass spawning in the bay – and found the 4th highest “YOY” index since the survey began.

DNR biologists have monitored the repro-ductive success of striped bass in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay annually since 1954. Twenty-two survey sites are located in the four major spawning systems: Choptank, Potomac, and Nanticoke rivers, and the Upper Bay. Biologists visit each site monthly from

July through September, col-lecting fish samples with two sweeps of a 100-foot beach seine.

If you haven’t done so yet, don’t forget to get your fishing license. The Mary-land Chesapeake Bay Sport Fishing (tidal) License was expanded last year to include the coastal regions of the state, and included saltwater registration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for each li-censee. Like last year, reg-istration is still required for those who do not require a license, including:

1) Passengers on a boat with a Pleasure Boat Decal

2) Wa t e r f r o n t Property owners and their family members

3) Those fishing in a free fishing area

4) People who possess a Virginia Salt-water license.

Online registration is easy at the MD DNR website www.dnr.maryland.gov/regis-try.asp.

Don’t forget to send me your fishing re-ports with pictures!

[email protected]. Keith has been a recreational angler

on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries for over 50 years; he fishes weekly from his small boat during the season, and spends his free time supporting local conservation organizations.

Sp rts

By Ronald N. Guy Jr.Contributing Writer

N A S -CAR’s offsea-son is barely n o t i c e a b l e . With seasons b e g i n n i n g in February and ending in November, the “boys of the asphalt” e s s e n t i a l l y break for the holidays, press

the reset button on the scoreboard and go back to work. Unlike every other sport though, the obsessive-compulsive left-turners start every season with the sport’s crown jewel: the Daytona 500. As a “re-strictor-plate” (a mandatory device that saps horsepower, rendering any single car incapable of pulling away from the pack) track, Daytona features nail-biting bum-per-to-bumper and door-to-door racing by hot-tempered, patience-averse drivers. To

compare, think I-495…at rush hour…at nearly 200 MPH. Yikes!

Not surprisingly then, Daytona pos-sesses everything race fans love - spec-tacular wrecks, angry and candid drivers and photo finishes – in abundance. This year’s version delivered on all accounts. It did, however, manage to distinguish it-self from its many predecessors. First, in a sport that’s as diverse as Major League Baseball was in the early 1940s (which is to say it isn’t at all), Danica Patrick be-came just the third woman to start a Day-tona 500. Second, Mother Nature must have had a schedule conflict; rain forced an unprecedented rescheduling to Mon-day night. And finally, while under cau-tion, something went awry in Juan Pablo Montoya’s car hurling it up the track and into a jet dryer. The resulting explosion and fire delayed the race for over 2 hours. The bizarre incident and 4th of July wor-thy blaze looked like the signature mo-ment of this 54th running of the 500; then came the confounding finish.

After a late crash, the race was de-cided via a two-lap sprint. In such situ-ations at restrictor plate tracks, leading is

the worst place to be. The ability of cars to “draft” off one another makes two or more cars tucked bumper-to-bumper significantly faster than any single car. This restrictor plate reality typically seals the leader’s fate as any synchronized move by the second and

third place cars will catapult them to the front. This time though the leader, Matt Kenseth, took the green flag and drove to a drama-less victory that inspired yawns befitting the race’s 1 AM EST conclusion.

When the green flag dropped, Greg Biffle tucked his second place car under Kenseth’s rear bumper and never moved. Dale Earnhardt Jr, running third, made a couple quick jerks behind Biffle, as if he was begging him to break the draft and launch the two past Kenseth for a duel to the checkered flag. But Biffle never flinched. He inexplicably just sat there and, by doing so, ensured Kenseth would win the biggest race in American motorsports.

Whether you love NASCAR or not, it is fascinating in this respect: it simul-taneously possesses elements of indi-vidual and team sports. On the surface, NASCAR creates the impression of 43 cars individually competing for the same trophy. In reality, multi-car teams domi-nate the sport, so while drivers pilot indi-vidual cars, many are on the same “team.” Kenseth and Biffle happen to be Roush

Fenway Racing teammates. It was appar-ent that Biffle’s marching orders during those last couple laps were to ensure his “team” won the 500, even if that meant he wouldn’t. Biffle and company would never acknowledge this truth, but anyone who has watched 15 minutes of restrictor plate racing couldn’t draw any other rea-sonable conclusion.

So is sacrificing for your teammate a bad thing? Normally, the answer is an absolute “no” – in any profession. Self-sacrifice and a willingness to assume an unheralded role are hallmarks of a successful team. Professional sports, though, are fundamentally competitive. They have to be. If they’re not, what is the point? Greg Biffle’s obviously a loyal teammate. That’s a commendable trait, but in his profession – and at certain times in our lives - it needs an off switch for “winning” moments that demand indi-vidualist thinking in support of personal achievement. On his sport’s biggest stage, Biffle, quite frankly, settled for something less than winning and by doing so he did himself, his sport’s forebearers and the fans of competitive athletics an injustice. The final lap at the Daytona 500 should belong to self-serving competitors, not perpetually good teammates.

Send comments to [email protected]

BleaChersA View From The No, No, after You

Combat Fishing

Angler AnglerThe Ordinary

Careful Catch and Release.


By Debra MeszarosMXSportsNutrition.com

It’s hard not to notice the impact the Dr. Oz show has had on inspiring people to manage their own health. His show is begin-ning to influence a very broad audience as people of all ages are exploring the idea of taking their health into their own hands. For those of us in the natural and integrative health practices, this is a movement very much welcomed.

As a practitioner, I also cannot avoid the many questions I’m asked about his supplement recommendations. One must realize that articles, internet posts, and even TV shows have limitations. The recent influx of inquiries related to weight loss products has shown the limitations; people are just not realizing that main-taining healthy weight levels has many factors. The quest of the masses looking for that miracle, magic pill that will take off un-wanted weight by the pounds continues, regardless of the fact that one does not exist. The reality for most people struggling with weight is that permanent weight loss, lost in a healthy man-ner, more than likely cannot be achieved with just a supplement.

Myths and misinformationAlthough this is not new news, diet products may contain

less calories but at the expense of adding designer sweeteners, chemicals, and often taking out much needed healthy fats from the food; creating other issues within the human body. Since weight gain is rarely related to healthy calorie intake, why poison your body and stress organs that perhaps are already stressed?

Designer ‘sweeteners’ know as artificial ‘sweeteners’, stress many organs in your body for several reasons. With some of these ‘sweeteners’, the brain and certain organs of the body are tricked into thinking that energy will be generated from these ‘sweeteners’, when in fact no energy is produced and the body in its confused state, calls for more food. Yes, ‘sweeteners’ can increase your appetite! So diet foods may not be the answer.

When it comes to body weight, the human body when bal-anced will automatically maintain ideal weight. To achieve this balanced state one must explore the functions of their organs, es-pecially thyroid, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, digestive enzymes, flora balance of the intestinal area, and….emotional state. These are often “root” factors for being over weight.

It is believed that between 10 to 25 million Americans have low functioning thyroids and many more undiagnosed. Testing your own thyroid is extremely easy, a simple Basal Temperature Test can be done at home and is claimed to be very accurate. If indeed the thyroid is under functioning, this is a factor that must be addressed to achieve healthy, permanent weight loss. Many have had success balancing their thyroid with natural options.

Dietary intake of too many simple carbohydrates, pasta, rice, starch vegetables, grains, and sugars, including fructose, creates extra stress on the pancreas and liver and often causes un-der function. These two organs produce 80% of the body’s much needed enzymes. If they are busy dealing with blood sugar levels they cannot complete the hundreds of bodily functions they are responsible for and therefore can lead to many different dysfunc-tions of the body. When the digestive processes by these organs are hindered, so is the utilization of nutrients from your food and supplements. Replacing these foods with vegetables and proteins can help keep these organs functioning properly.

Gallbladder removal is common practice and places these individuals in a digestive disadvantage. Often one is simply told to stay away from fats as a solution to the disadvantage, but that may not be effective in helping the body in properly overcoming the stress of this organ no longer being available to the body. In my opinion this is a situation that warrants the help of Lipase enzyme supplementation. With supplementation, the body may then have sufficient enzymes to carry out some of the normal functions related to the gallbladder, like the digestion of fats. Some benefits may come in the form of a better balance of blood lipids; cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids. Additional benefits may be better transportation of nutrients since the body uses fat for transportation of such.

There is also a surprising link between gut health and weight gain. Poor eating habits, excessive sugar intake, antibiotic use, and excess stress all contribute to the decline of intestinal health. Low grade inflammatory states brought on by food intol-erances and allergies also play a role in intestinal health. Recent research has revealed that certain strains of friendly bacteria that

should reside in the intestinal area encourage proper metabo-lism, help maintain lipid and glucose balances, and inflamma-tory responses of the body. So the options of eating naturally fermented foods and taking prebiotic/probiotic supplements may want to be explored.

Emotions and their role in weight loss are rarely discussed, yet very important. The power of the brain should never be un-derestimated. Neurotransmitters are the “root” of brain func-tionality and if the need for them is not met, guess what? That’s right, the body as a whole under functions. When the brain has support in managing metabolism and cravings, overeating is un-der control. A number of neurotransmitters produce a sense of contentment and satisfaction. Dopamine is at the top of the list; without it one is frustrated, anxious, has a harder time control-ling cravings, and leans towards addictive behavior. This is an-other reason I support adequate protein in ones diet and love the use of protein powders as an easily digestible form of protein in-take. Protein in the body is broken down into single amino acids which are the back bone to our body’s production of hormones and neurotransmitters.

The final myth; the idea of counting calories and restricting them below the norm will place the body in starvation mode. This lowering of the body’s metabolic rate creates other un-healthy issues and results in muscle loss, not fat loss. The only calories that need restricting are ‘empty’ calories found in highly processed foods. Utilizing appetite suppressors, and various carb or sugar blockers, does little in addressing the “root” of weight gain. Helping the body to maintain a healthy weight balance, in permanent fashion, may take the implementation of addressing several contributing factors together.

DISCLAIMER: When you read through the diet and lifestyle information, you must know that everything within it is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care profes-sional. I am making no at-tempt to prescribe any medi-cal treatment. You should not use the information here for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medica-tion or other treatment. The products and the claims made about specific products have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diag-nose, treat, cure or prevent disease. You should consult with a healthcare profes-sional before starting any diet, exercise or supplemen-tation program, before tak-ing any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Con-firm the safety of any supple-ments with your M.D., N.D. or pharmacist (healthcare professional). Some infor-mation given is solely an opinion, thought and or con-clusion based on experienc-es, trials, tests, assessments or other available sources of information. I do not make any guarantees or promises with regard to results. I may discuss substances that have not been subject to double blind clinical studies or FDA approval or regulation. You assume the responsibility for the decision to take any natu-ral remedy.

You and only you are responsible if you choose to do anything with the infor-mation you have read. You do so at your own risk. Use your intelligence to make the decisions that are right for you. Consulting a natu-ropathic doctor is strongly advised especially if you have any existing disease or condition.

23314 Surrey Way • California, Maryland 20619Fax: 301-737-0853 • [email protected]

Owned and Operated by 301-737-0737 Call For More Information:

Bella Bailey, Marketing & Leasing MGR.

301-862-5307

Discounted Cable

Playground

Free on Site Storage

with Every Apartment

Walk to Shopping/

RestaurantsAmenity Package Available

$150

Lim

ite

d Time Only!

Move - In Special

Exploring Health with Dr. OzDebra Meszarosis a Certified Sports Nutrition-ist and Bio-feed-back practitioner with further edu-cational studies in Naturopathy, Ho-meopathy, Ortho-molecular Nutri-tion and addition-ally holds fourteen U.S. patents. Through her extensive health education, and experience of 20-plus years in cellular biology, she has developed an all-encompassing Holistic health service that allows individuals to discover their biochemical uniqueness, allowing them to fine tune their health. The basis of her service is to facilitate access to information that will help your understanding of health processes and elements that are within your area of control. Her services are available in Maryland, Virginia and South Carolina. She can be reached at (540) 622 – 4989 Monday through Friday.

Thursday, March 8, 2012 32The County TimesFAMILY OWNED • FAMILY OPERATED • FAMILY TRADITIONS

SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • CHEVY RUNS DEEP

Scan this Code

with your smart phone!

Your Buick, GMC, and Chevrolet Dealer in Leonardtown

Winegardner Motor Company Serving as your Leonardtown,

Chevrolet, & Buick, GMC dealer.

Pre-Owned 301-475-0047

22675 Washington Street Leonardtown, MD 20650

New Vehicles Pre-Owned Vehicles301-475-2355 301-475-0047 www.winegardnerauto.com

Huge Sales Event

2008 KIA SORENTO EX 4WD

$18,900.00

2006 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER TOURING

2006 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY VAN

$8,995.00

$10,965.00

2000 CHEVROLET CORVETTE

$17,495.00

2009 CHEVROLET IMPALA SS RED

$18,995.00

2008 GMC 2500 EXT CAB *DURAMAX DIESEL*

$33,900.002001 MERCURY GRAND

MARQUIS GS

$9,995.00$14,500.00

$12,995.00

2009 HYUNDAI SONOTA GLS

$12,995.00

2009 CHEVY SILVERADO WT PS PW PL

$15,995.00

Only65,198Miles

Chevy Runs Deep

Thursday, February 9, 2012 16The Calvert GazetteFAMILY OWNED • FAMILY OPERATED • FAMILY TRADITIONS

SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • CHEVY RUNS DEEP

Scan this Code

with your smart phone!

Your Buick, GMC, and Chevrolet Dealer in Leonardtown

Winegardner Motor Company Serving as your Leonardtown,

Chevrolet, & Buick, GMC dealer.

Pre-Owned 301-475-0047

22675 Washington Street Leonardtown, MD 20650

New Vehicles Pre-Owned Vehicles301-475-2355 301-475-0047 www.winegardnerauto.com

2009 CHEVROLET SILVERADO CREW CAB LT

$21,900.00

2003 BUICK CENTURY CUSTOM 4DR SEDAN

2006 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY VAN

$8,995.00

$10,965.00

2000 CHEVROLET CORVETTE

$17,495.00

2007 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA SEDAN

WOLFSBURG EDITION

$10,495.00

2010 CHEVROLET CAMARO COUPE LS

$21,495.00

2008 FORD MUSTANG GT OUTLAW

$19,900.00

2005 BUICK RENDEVOUS 4WD SUV

$9,895.00$5,995.00

2006 FORD EXPEDITION XLT 4WD

$14,595.002006 MERCURY MONTEGO PREMIER SEDAN

2007 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER LT 4WD

$12,995.00

$14,995.00

1995 CHEVROLETSILVERADO WT

Only40,970Miles

Only52,635Miles

Chevy Runs Deep

1974 PLYMOUTH DUSTER 340

2007 CHEVROLET IMPALA LT

* *

2012-03-08 The County Times

Documents

Transcript of 2012-03-08 The County Times