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Shelby Buckler, 12-grader at Patuxent High School, said saying Merry Christmas has become a generalized statement, kind of like when you say God bless you. Yeah, everybody has their own religion, but if somebody came up to me and said happy Hanukkah, I would just be like OK, Buckler said. If someone said that to me I wouldnt think oh
I think most of them say happy holidays just to not offend anybody, said Cathy Shatzer, a counselor at Mill Creek Middle School. I dont think its bad to say. There shouldnt be a rule that says you cant say that. I think they know their kids well enough that they know if one of them wouldnt want them to say that.
Thursday, December-2009
Trooper Kem Hunt, left, and Trooper Christopher Esnes help Lavar Sherbert pick out gifts for himself and his family.
On T he Cover
Also Inside
Jaime Padilla, right, owner of Jake and Als Chophouse in Lusby, talks with Calvert County Commissioners Jerry Clark Barbara Stinnett during the Lusby Business Associations Holiday Mixer at the restaurant. SEE PAGE 4
Local news
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Delegate Column
Cover Story History Locals Obituaries Business Directory Out & About Sports Entertainment On The Water
The Museum is decked with boughs of holly, Weve lit up the tree and festooned the lobby. SEE PAGE 23
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John Glass of Patuxent High School guns it out during the boys 50-year freestyle during the tri-meet on Friday, Dec. 11. SEE PAGE 20
FOR EVENTS HAPPENING IN YOUR AREA, CHECK PAGE 19 IN OUT AND ABOUT
Sports
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LOCAL NEWS
usby may not seem like a fashion destination, but a budding clothing company that has taken root and set up part of its operations in the region is changing that. 3 Clothing Company, named so for its three partners, Patricc Reed, of Los Angeles, Josie Wilder, of Greenville, SC, and Reese Donner, of Lusby, launched their first clothing collection in February 2008, offering a variety of organic and custom made recycled outfits. We originally met in the late 90s while serving in the Marines together, wrote lead designer Patricc Reed in an email to the Southern Calvert Gazette. It was a reunion in 2007 that sparked the idea of 3 Clothing. We are three different guys that live three different lives, but share one common goal, leaving this earth knowing we did our part. Reed, 27, explained that though his company focused on creating ecofriendly outfits, it was more a company based on the principles of social responsibility. We really consider ourselves
more of a socially conscious company than an organic company, Reed said, explaining that as he teamed with his partners to decide on sourcing options for their clothing line, the choice to go organic just seemed natural. If we are going to produce clothing, what are our sourcing options? Organic or Conventional? So, once we looked into the difference, we were forced to ask ourselves why we wouldnt go organic, he wrote. We are not radical green lovers. In fact, we hate the word green. To us it conjures up the thought of greed, or sickness. We much prefer pomegranate, which is a super fruit and quite a bright and appealing color. And the designs are colorful, sporting modern cuts and trendy flourishes, from their line of distressed ex-boyfriend jeans to their colorful organic graphic t-shirts, which are produced in Southern Maryland. Its a far cry from the thrown-together fashions of granola eating hippies, which Reed said were not the companys target audience. We make fashionable clothing for the person that wants to look good
Jaime Padilla, right, owner of Jake and Als Chophouse in Lusby, talks with Calvert County Commissioners Jerry Clark Barbara Stinnett during the Lusby Business Associations Holiday Mixer at the restaurant on Dec. 8. About 30 people, including business owners and representatives and county officials attended. The purpose was to highlight local business and bring us together, said Nance Pretto Simmons, of the Lusby Business Association. Now a lot of local business are struggling, and a lot of us share the same concerns It went really well, we had a lot of local businesses, people from other business association came out to support us, and we had some county representatives.
Thursday, December-2009
or about half a century the U.S. Navys UH-3H helicopter, commonly known as the Sea King, has performed nearly every task the military asked of it, from anti-submarine warfare and transporting dignitaries to performing search and rescue operations at sea. Now the military is retiring the last of aging breed this week at Patuxent River Naval Air Station, where the helicopter has made its home. The last helicopter, though retired from active duties like rescue operations, will still serve as a trainer and as a testing platform for pilots flying in the Presidential Helicopter Squadron that currently uses VH-3D helicopters, according to Rob Koon, spokesman for the Sikorsky Sea King program office. Its had a lot of history, its been around for 50 years, Koon told The Southern Calvert Gazette. It was a workhorse for the fleet. Its carried presidents from the Eisenhower administration on. The helicopter design was also the one used to pick up astronauts after their earliest forays into space. Its done everything weve asked it to do, Koon said of the robust, long-lived design. The ceremony turning the last helicopter over from the Navy to the United States Marine Corp took place Dec. 10, at
LOCAL NEWS
n Dec. 2 at about 3:40 p.m. after executing search and seizure warrants at the addresses of three suspects in the home invasion and robbery on Mackall Road in St. Leonard that occurred on Dec. 1, Det. Michael Mudd of the Calvert Investigative Team made arrests of four suspects. Bryan Edward Seay, 20 of Port Republic, Stephen Greenlee Joseph, 19, and Derek Craig Bradley, 21, both of Lusby, were each served warrants charging them each with armed robbery, three counts of first degree assault, three counts of second degree assault, first degree burglary, reckless endangerment, three counts of false imprisonment, theft less than $1000, and handgun violation use in a felony and handgun on person. Also arrested and charged with armed robbery, first degree burglary and three counts each of first- and second-degree assault was Carlene Danielle Pedersen, 19 of Lusby. The three men are accused of kicking in the front door of a victims home and demanding at gunpoint that the occupants lie down on the floor while prescription medications were stolen. By Sean Rice (ScG) info@
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corner
Enjoy treats from Dunkin Donuts during the evening hours of Garden in Lights For admission & complete schedule:
ommissioners
of which came about based on feedback received from previous business surveys. Data collected from the 2009 survey will be used to support local businesses and enhance the programs and services that are currently available. All responses are confidential and the online survey only takes a few moments to complete. Final aggregate results will be available online by late winter 2010. Calvert County business owners who wish to complete the survey may do so online at www.ecalvert.com, or by calling 410.535.4583 or 301.855.1880. The deadline for completion is January 15, 2010. I would like to take an opportunity to wish you the best for a safe, happy and healthy Christmas and holiday season. I hope you look forward to the coming New Year with a sense of hope, cheer and optimism. As we all bustle around over the next few weeks shopping, preparing special meals and treats, greeting family and friends and celebrating the holidays, lets take a moment to be thankful for the many blessings that we enjoy as residents of Southern Maryland. Seasons greetings!
www.annmariegarden.org
Thursday, December-2009
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IN
LOCAL NEWS
ynn Bonde, Executive Director of Calvert Hospice for the last 12 years, will retire in March of 2010, the agency announced Monday. Under her leadership, Calvert Hospice has grown from a small non-profit agency to a vibrant provider in the health care community of Calvert County. When Bonde joined Calvert Hospice in 1998, the organization had a staff of 10 and cared for 111 families in the Hospice program. In 2009, a staff of over 40 full and part-time employees will have cared for over 250 families in the community. Another 10 employees are training to welcome the first patients to the new Burnett-Calvert Hospice House. This House exists because you, the people of Calvert County, believe in what Hospice represents and are willing to support our work so that these services will continue far into the future, Bonde said while addressing the community gathered at the Hospice House ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 21. It has been my privilege to lead this effort and to see this wonderful building completed. The Hospice House is going to meet an important need in the community, Honorary Hospice House Campaign Chair Margaret Phipps said in a press release. Were fortunate to have had Lynn here to help us realize this dream. My work at Calvert Hospice has given me more joy than I can express, Bonde said in announcing her retirement. The team of professionals and volunteers is first-rate, committed to our mission, and a terrific asset to the community. I know they will build upon their strengths to achieve great things in the future. Bonde received her law degree from the George
Lynn Bonde
Photo by Kathleen McCabe Walter This is an image of some of the intentional damage being done to the fossil sites in Calvert County.
Washington University National Law Center and her Masters in Social Work from the Catholic University School of Social Service. Before joining Calvert Hospice as Executive Director in 1998, Bonde was a partner at a Washington, D.C., law firm for 15 years. She is also a psychotherapist working with those living with life threatening illness and loss for the past 20 years.
plus have gone through the process three times, we are part of a very small number that have kept our professional standards at the highest level. Calvert Marine Museum is one of only 12 museums in Maryland to be accredited. Accreditation assures the people of Southern Maryland that their museum is among the finest in the nation, said Ford W. Bell, president of AAM. As a result, the citizens can take considerable pride in their homegrown institution, for its commitment to excellence and for the value it brings to the community. To earn accreditation, a museum first must conduct a year of self-study, then undergo a site visit by a team of peer reviewers. AAMs Accreditation Commission, an independent and autonomous body of museum professionals, review and evaluate the self-study and visiting committee report to determine whether a museum should receive accreditation. While the time to complete the process varies by museum, it generally takes three years. For a complete listing of museum activities, events, and programs, visit the website at www. calvertmarinemuseum.com.
Thursday, December-2009
ossil hunters who usually tear into the exposed cliffs along Calvert Countys shoreline are moving south, says a DNR employee and amateur fossil hunter observing the health of the natural resources there. Ive seen it myself, some of the damage at Bayfront Beach, said Scott Nieman, who works part-time at Flag Pond park. A lot of this seems to be coming from people from northern states. You see the cars up there with license plates from Connecticut, New Jersey and New York. Nieman said he knows of reports of illegal fossil hunting and graffiti on the exposed cliffs coming down to the Plum Point area. Nieman said the down economy may be to blame for the illegal digging, since fossils can bring several hundred dollars a piece. But fossil hunters often leave large holes in the cliffs from their excavations, Nieman said, which destroys the shoreline and creates a cave-in hazard. Its terrible, Nieman said of some of the damage he said he has seen. Ive seen guys going in there with shovels and pick axes and you known what theyre going in there for. Connie Sutton, a ranger at Flag Pond park, said that the problems have not centered around her park because the cliffs have been overgrown with foliage. Reports of problems at exposed cliffs still come in, however, and she said that excavating at the cliffs is particularly dangerous during the spring when the earth is thawing out from the winter freeze and breaks away causing rock slides. Beach combing is legal, however, she said, and fossil hunters walking along the beach can pick up fossils. Kathleen McCabe Walter, a local beach comber, said that graffiti also plagues the cliffs and has documented some of it with her camera. Seeing the illegal graffiti was sad and made me realize that some people just dont get it, McCabe said. Not only is it destructive but its dangerous and stupid. And for what? By Guy Leonard (CT) guyleonard@countytimes.net
s I sat in front of my computer to put some thoughts to paper so to speak for this column, it occurred to me that sometimes it is good to simply reflect on things from the past. This is the Christmas edition of this column and as such I thought it might be interesting to share some very random thoughts about this very special of holidays in this very special time of year. Since so many of our neighbors and friends are struggling with this tough economy, I thought it might be nice to remind myself and the readers that this is the season of hope. This is the season of sharing joy in the knowledge that there are better things in store for us and that sharing goodwill is a very important thing in our lives. One positive childhood memory of Christmas for me was when I was probably around six years old. I remember that particular Christmas I received what were for me two very special presents. One was a toy fire truck and the other was a Bugs Bunny hand puppet. I chuckle to myself when I think of the simplicity of those gifts and how happy they made me at the time. As the youngest of seven kids in my family, there wasnt a lot of money to go around. And yet somehow, that time sticks in my mind as one of the most carefree and happy times in my life. I guess it is good for me to remember that sometimes simpler is better. All the fancy toys and gadgets in the world cant necessarily provide that kind of positive memory. Sometimes we can get so caught up in the material aspect of this time of year that we forget to remind ourselves what it is all about. Yes, we share celebrations of the holiday with friends and family. There are office parties and neighborhood gettogethers and other special events. We do all of this to live out the promise of sharing happiness and goodwill with others. This is the basis of sharing gifts with each other. Some gifts are wrapped as presents, like my long ago fire truck and hand puppet. We should also keep in mind that
the sharing of celebration with our family and friends is its own special gift. Yes, we have some more melancholy Christmas moments when thinking about and missing our loved ones who have passed on before us. This is also a part of the Christmas season. For this holiday, gives us the promise of the birth of the redeemer. We know the season represents the birth of the possibility of the everlasting. So when we are missing our dearly departed, we can take the hope of this Christmas season as a reminder that there are gifts beyond the material that will be there someday. There is another memory of this season I would like to share. It is from when I was in the fourth grade. My elementary school had one fourth grade class. Each year the fourth grade teacher, Mr. John Rowan, would have that fourth grade class put on a class play and each year it was the same one. The production of this fourth grade class was of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. I think it might be more difficult in this day and age to put on such a production in a public school setting where each and every member of the class participated in one way or another. I had the privilege and honor of playing the lead role in that play many decades ago. I played the role of Mr. Ebenezer Scrooge, arguably the hardest part with the most lines to remember in the whole play, especially for a fourth grader. Nonetheless, I have fond memories of that play and my role in it. Every time I see a modern day adaptation of that classic, I cant help but remember my fourth grade experience, and the lessons for a lifetime contained in that classic Dickens novella. So if we get a chance during this Christmas Holiday, we should take the time to share some of our blessings with those struggling to get along. So I want to simply say Merry Christmas to all. May the true meaning and spirit of this Holiday visit each and every one of you and your entire family. As always, feel free to contact my local legislative office at (410) 326-0081 or email at anthony.odonnell@house. state.md.us with questions, comments or concerns regarding these items or other matters.
Holiday Reflections
he U.S. Congress last week passed a $1.1 trillion spending bill that brings together six of the 12 annual spending measures that Congress has been unable to pass since the current budget year began on Oct. 1. The bill includes $447 billion in operating budgets such as the State Department, the Department of Health and Human Services and others, and near $650 billion in mandatory payments for federal benefit programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. The bill increases spending by an average of about 10 percent to programs under immediate control of Congress, blending increases for veterans programs, NASA and the FBI with a pay raise for federal workers and help for car dealers, the Associated Press reports. The bill also includes an estimated $3.9 billion in pork barrel funding for more than 5,000 back-home projects sought by individual lawmakers in both parties. Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (DMD) applauded the bills passage in the House, and reported that he fought hard to secure nearly $20,000,000 in projects for Southern Maryland. In Calvert, as reported by Hoyers office, the projects listed in the spending bill include: Project Echo Homeless Shelter Renovations and Expansion -$375,000. Funds to be used for the renovation and expansion of a homeless shelter located in Calvert County. The new facility will increase available space by more than 50 percent and provide emergency shelter for individuals and families living in Calvert, St. Marys or Charles County for up to 90 days. Southern Maryland Commuter Bus Initiative - $1,250,000. Funding to support planning, design and construction of new or expanded commuter parking lots in Calvert, Charles, and St. Marys counties, as well as the acquisition of overthe-road coaches. MD 4, MD 2/4 to MD 235 including Thomas Johnson Bridge and MD 235 Intersection - $750,000. The funds will be used for design, right-of-way acquisition or construction for improvements to the Thomas Johnson Memorial Bridge, dualization
Thursday, December-2009
he Calvert County Mentoring Partnership (CCMP) is hosting its Fifth Annual National Mentoring Month Breakfast on Thursday, Jan. 28, from 8 to 10 a.m., at Calvert Pines Senior Center in Prince Frederick. Jim Hitchcock, owner of Southern Maryland Auto & Insane Exhaust and a previous Job Shadow Day host, will be the Honorary Chair at this free networking event. The breakfast will feature highlights from successful mentoring programs, testimonials from local mentors, and information on how to get involved. Individuals, businesses, government agencies, schools, faith communities and local nonprofit organizations can all play a part in increasing the number of mentors in Calvert County and assuring a better future for our youth. The Mentoring Breakfast is held in observance of National Mentoring Month 2010, a month-long campaign dedicated to recruiting caring mentors for Americas youth. Research has shown that mentorship can play a
powerful role in reducing drug abuse and youth violence, while greatly enhancing a young persons prospects for leading a healthy and productive life. Calvert County is rich in opportunities for young people to become involved with a mentor who cares about their well-being. If your organization offers a mentoring program that you wish to feature at a booth at the Mentoring Breakfast, email Nadine Happell at nhappell@gscnc.org. One person can change the future of a child simply by expanding their horizons. If you want to learn what you can do to become involved in mentoring, this is a great place to start, Lorraine Joyner, Chair of the Calvert County Mentoring Partnership, said in a press release. To RSVP for the free National Mentoring Month Breakfast, or to sponsor the event on behalf of a business or organization, contact Lorraine Joyner at the Calvert County Family Network at 410-414-5997 or by email at joynerlr@co.cal.md.us.
As the holidays approach the Winter Farm Guide offers a home-grown alternative to the malls and stores. Organized by category of items (greenery and home dcor; gifts; wine; poultry; meat and seafood; winter vegetables and holiday farm events) the guide lists farms where you can find original ideas for gifts, food, and family entertainment as well as locally grown Christmas trees, festive garlands and wreaths. The guide also includes farm hosted family events featuring live nativity scenes, how-to workshops for holiday decorations, candlelit caroling walks and nature walks through Christmas tree farms. Supporting farms this winter is good for the planet, good for your community and good for you, Christine Bergmark, Executive Director of SMADC, said in a press release. Buying locally year-round supports our local rural economy, helps to protect the environment and preserve our green spaces. We have a vibrant farm community in Southern Maryland producing wonderful local products and offering memorable experiences even in the depths of winter. To view or download the Farms for the Holidays visit www.somarylandsogood.com Click on news and media information for a list of regional pick up sites.
he Center for Children recently introduced a new branch of services offered to the Calvert County community, The Family Resource Center. The Family Resource Center is an information resource and a starting place for referrals for county residents with children ages up to 21, a press release states. The Family Resource staff works with families to identify needs and strengths and connect them with the appropriate services. Some examples of past as-
he 8th Annual Solomons TUBACHRISTMAS event will be held 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 21, at Southern Calvert Baptist Church, located at 12140 H. G. Trueman Rd in Lusby. The TUBACHRISTMAS performance is open to the public and free of charge. All low brass players are welcome to play in the group (details at www.tubachristmas.com). TUBACHRISTMAS performances feature traditional Christmas carols arranged for tuba and baritone/ euphonium players. Created by renowned American tuba artist teacher, Harvey Phillips, TUBACHRISTMAS concerts will
TUBACHRISTMAS Returning
be presented in over 200 cities throughout the United States and in several foreign countries this season. Phillips was inspired to create TUBACHRISTMAS to honor his teacher and mentor, William Bell, born on Christmas Day, 1902. Now an established Christmas tradition around the world, TUBACHRISTMAS is celebrating its 36th Anniversary (1974-2009). Thanks to publicity from local newspapers, support from the Southern Maryland community, local musicians, and low brass students from many of our Southern Maryland school bands, we have continued to grow each year, said Bill White, Solomons TUBACHRISTMAS coordinator.
Thursday, December-2009
staff and will take place at JPPM in St. Leonard. Class size is limited. Tuition is $10 and class material fee is $45. The course identification number is PEP 7680. Registration for the program is through CSM at www.csmd.edu/ Training/Register/#Register or call 301-934-2251 for the registration form. For general questions regarding the program please contact Jean Campbell at 410-586-8536 or jcampbell@mdp.state.md.us.
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mployees of Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) recently donated more than $25,000 to the Southern Maryland Food Bank, part of Catholic Charities Enterprises. The money will help the non-profit agency provide food to nearly 40 pantries, group homes, and shelters that serve needy families in Southern Maryland. SMECO employees collected the money through fund-raising efforts in 2009, including the annual Charity Golf Tournament. Each year, SMECO selects a different charity to benefit from employee contributions. With 470 employees, SMECO personnel embody the Co-ops mission: to enhance the quality of life in Southern Maryland. Pictured from left are Austin J. Slater, Jr., SMECO President and Chief Executive Officer; George Mattingly, Southern Maryland Food Bank assistant manager; Brenda DiCarlo, Food Bank program manager; and Larry Hak, SMECO Supply Chain Director and the director of the Co-ops Charity Golf Tournament.
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he Patuxent River Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) education outreach coordinator, Kathy Glockner, will be giving public information sessions regarding student employment and engineering education pathways at the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and NAWCAD. The presentations are scheduled for Jan. 7, 14 and 21 at the Frank Knox Training Center room 120 from 5 to 6 pm. Glockners presentation will focus on summer employment for high school and college students in technical positions, the cooperative education program for college students and the University of Marylands mechanical engineering degree program offered at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center. Parents, students and guardians are encouraged to attend one of the sessions to learn more about these opportunities. The deadline for high school students to submit their application for NAVAIR and NAWCAD technical positions for summer 2010 employment is Feb. 1. There is no deadline date for college student applications. Additionally, the Fleet and Family Readiness Regional Human Resources Department will present information on summer employment for lifeguards, water safety instructors, camp counselors, recreation aides and a host of other customer services positions. Specific job announcements, application deadlines and the on-line application process will be covered. These positions are located at Patuxent River, Solomons Recreation Center, Dahlgren, and Indian Head. The Frank Knox training center is located south of gate two near the Cedar Point Federal Credit Union. This building is located off base and no registration is required. Seating is first-come-first-served, with a limit of 75 attendees per session. Attendees must present a picture ID card upon entrance to the building.
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families. Part of the schools PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) program, the event was a way of doing something good for kids who are making good choices at school, said Jackie Sass, a 6th- and 8th-grade teacher who is pictured above. [PBIS] is basically promoting positive behavior and you can do it in a plethora of different ways. We do kind of funny-money, that we call Diamond Bucks, said Abbe Gray, vice principal at Mill Creek. Its a family event, she said. Students had the chance to use their bucks to go on a shopping spree in the gym, while parents enjoyed food and a live auction. Its just a great thing Kids shopping for their families. Theres a wrapping station out there, and theres over 2,000 items in that gymnasium, Gray said.
undreds of Mill Creek Middle School students participated in the schools annual Winter Wonderland event on Friday evening, Dec. 11, using their hard earned Diamond Bucks to buy Christmas presents for themselves and their
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Thursday, December-2009
e are barely a month away from another session of the Maryland General Assembly. As government spending continues to exceed revenue, once again Maryland policymakers will debate how to close a deficit of billions of dollars. The states spending problems will get even worse, however, if health care reform is enacted in Washington, D.C. The legislation currently under consideration in Washington will be bad news for Marylands taxpayers. One of the reasons Maryland faces a continuing deficit is the growth in the states medical assistance programs, such as Medicaid and the Maryland Childrens Health Program. The federal government picks up a portion of these programs cost, but state taxpayers still foot much of the bill. Over the last nine years, the amount of money Maryland taxpayers have spent on these programs has grown by 64 percent. Expanded eligibility and benefits This increased spending is partly a result of worsening economic conditions. Much of the new spending, though, results from the states continual expansion of people who are eligible for the programs and what services the programs cover.
This approach may seem like a good idea when the economy is good, but when recession hits, tax revenue dries up and more people want government coverage. In Washington, the rationale behind health care reform legislation is that it will help control the growth in health care spending. But provisions of legislation being considered by both the House and Senate would only increase states Medicaid spending. These bills mandate expanding Medicaid services to childless adults, a move that could bring hundreds of thousands onto Marylands Medicaid rolls. A new influx of Medicaid recipients could mean a significant new burden on the states taxpayers. Just how much is unknown. The proposed federal legislation says the federal government will pick up most of the cost, but it does not specify for how long. The drive to reduce the legislations price tag likely means this federal cost-sharing will be significantly reduced. A bipartisan group of governors has sounded the alarm over this potentially budget-busting Medicaid expansion. Gov. Martin OMalley, however, has continued to be a cheerleader for these federal efforts. Tough choices lie ahead In dealing with previous years deficits, OMalley and legislators have used all the budget tricks and accounting gimmicks available. There is a looming deficit next year, potentially
reaching $3 billion. Adding a federally mandated Medicaid expansion on top of this will mean Annapolis must choose between real spending cuts or even higher taxes. If our legislators decided to try and cut the budget, another provision in the federal legislation mandates that states cannot reduce Medicaid eligibility or services. That would put 17 percent of the states budget off-limits during efforts to close a deficit. Couple that with the political and legal impracticality of cutting education spending and there is not much left in the budget to trim. You dont need to be a psychic to see new taxes for Marylanders in the future. Marylands taxpayers are already reeling under recordsetting tax hikes from the 2007 special session that were supposed to solve the state deficit. Politicians in Annapolis continue to spend, however, and politicians in Washington are on the verge of adding to the states budget troubles. If politicians expand government health care programs, someone will have to pay for it. The states taxpayers are once again a very convenient target. Marc Kilmer is a senior fellow at the Maryland Public Policy Institute, a public policy think tank based in Rockville. He can be reached at mkilmer@mdpolicy.org.
Thursday, December-2009
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Cover
On The
On The Cover
Photo By Sean Rice At least 60 officers helped more than 70 children during the Shop with a Cop event held Dec. 12. After the shopping, the children and officers went back to Outback Steakhouse to wrap the presents.
They were then escorted in a procession of police vehicles with lights and sirens activated down Main Street to the south entrance onto Md. Rt. 4 and then north to Wal-Mart. Once at Wal-Mart the children used $100 gift cards to purchase items for themselves and family members. After shopping, they traveled back to Outback Steakhouse for a breakfast buffet with officers. While at Outback, volunteers assisted the children with wrapping their presents before the officers drove them back to their homes. Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans said the event was a great success, with more than 60 officers joining, including deputies, troopers, Natural Resources Police, cadets with the Sheriffs explorers program, and even a Prince Georges County officer. Shop with a Cop is sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Police of Calvert County and the Optimist Clubs of Calvert County. All funds are provided by donations from the community. Anyone interested in donating to the program can send donations to: Calvert County Sheriffs Office, Att: Sgt. Bomgarder, 30 Church Street, Prince Frederick, Md.
By Sean Rice (ScG) info@ somdpublishing. net
Photo By Sean Rice Calvert County Sheriffs Deputy Andre Mitchell wheels a bike down the toys section in Wal-Mart.
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12 Thursday, December-2009
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L
Hi, my name is Lissa and Im a spectacular five year old female pure bred Dogue de Bordeaux. Im as gentle as lamb and full of love. Ill make some lucky family a wonderful companion. Im up to date on vaccinations, spayed, crate trained, house trained and identification micro chipped. For more information, please contact SECOND HOPE RESCUE at 240-9250628 or email Kathy at katmc@ secondhoperescue.org. Please Adopt, Dont Shop!
Lissa
BUY LOCAL!
alvert Memorial Hospitals Galaxy Ball blasted into new territory on Nov. 14 raising over $118,000 for the state-of-the-art breast center slated to open next month. The proceeds will be used to equip the center with the most current, most precise, least invasive imaging technology available for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer today. The Center for Breast Care at Calvert Memorial Hospital the first of its kind in Southern Maryland brings together an experienced team of breast health experts to provide coordinated care from outreach and screening to diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. The multidisciplinary program will provide local women with access to the same level of care available in major metropolitan areas. The star-studded evening signaled a future as bright and promising as the special effects lighting that dazzled the 472 ball-goers. We are excited to announce that not only will the Center for Breast Care have outstanding doctors and technology, CMH President and CEO Jim Xinis said in a press release. But we are partnering with Johns Hopkins to bring experts in breast imaging on-site to our center. For the first time, the annual charity gala was held at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro. The new location proved popular with attendees who liked the spacious layout and the out of this world dcor created by the ball committee. The ball will return to the Show Place Arena next year on Nov. 13. The evening opened with Dr. Sheldon Goldberg at the piano accompanying his wife Dr. Ramona Crawley. Goldberg has been the driving force behind the breast centers creation. His personal and professional dedica-
410-562-6516
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Thursday, December-2009
Humane Society of Calvert County, 15% of the proceeds from each sale are donated to the HSCC. The Shelter Dog is a dog silhouette accented with a star. Each year 15% of the proceeds from this piece are donated to a different local animal shelter. My two favorite four-legged creatures, Petey and Monk, are lying at my feet as I write this column. Their stockings will have some tasty doggie bones and new bowls from Peppers Pet Pantry, located next door to the Solomons Veterinary Clinc. Peppers Pet Pantry offers everything for pets, from fancy collars, dog brushes and tasty treats to presents for the people who love them. Another thoughtful gift for an animal lover a bag of their pets favorite food or a gift certificate from the vet for the next rabies shot. I always find it hard to come up with a gift for my childrens teachers and administrative staff with whom I work. A few years ago I found that gift cards from local restaurants and fast food locations make great gifts. Gift cards are offered in $5, $10, $20 denominations. Who ever said that there is no such thing as a free lunch! For the wine lover in the family Calvert County has five wineries. All award winners, wines from Solomons Island Winery, Cove Point Winery, Perigeaux Vineyards, Running Hare Vineyards and Fridays Creek Winery are available at local spirit stores. For the best experience, take a tour of the wineries, sample a few bottles you may find you buy more than just a bottle! You have many options as you look for gifts, please consider buying local. Buying local can have a significant impact on our community. Buying from a local business helps to creat jobs in our area and grows the tax base. And you are investing in the community. Local business owners live in the community. As their business grows they will invest in the community.
Members of the band upstroke, including Patty Dorsch, center, and Carl Reichelt, right, played at the Southern Maryland Sailing Association during the Solomons Island Christmas Walk on Dec. 4. Photo by Sean Rice
Thursday, December-2009
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1995 in Lusby, MD at Olivet United Methodist Church. Linda attended Tamaqua High School in Tamaqua, PA and graduated in 1967; she then attended Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, DE. She worked for Recorded Books, LLC for twenty years as a customer service representative and later as an accounting clerk. In 1983, Linda moved from Lakewood, NJ to Lusby, MD. Linda was a member of Olivet United Methodist Church, Lusby, MD and the Southern Maryland Emmaus Community.
She leaves three children, Robert Kibler of Lusby, MD; Wendy Johnson of Lusby, MD and Andrew Kibler of Lusby, MD. Loving grandmother of Joelle Kibler and T. J. Johnson, devoted sister of Holly Finley of Nashville, TN. Funeral services were held Dec. 12 at Olivet United Methodist Church. Interment followed at the church cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to Olivet United Methodist Church, 13570 Olivet Road, Lusby, Maryland 20657, or to Calvert Hospice, P. O. Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678. Donations are encourage on-line at www.calverthospice.org.
and sports. He is survived by his wife Carol Godfrey; Parents William and Alta Godfrey of Burtonsville, WV; children Angela Harkness and her husband Brian of Lusby, MD, William D. Godfrey, Jr. and his wife Shana of Olney, MD and Thomas K. Godfrey and his wife Crissy of Sunderland, MD; grandchildren Timothy and Kristin Brady, Zachary and Brienna Harkness, Samantha, Casey, Baeleigh and Gavin Godfrey. Danny is also survived by three brothers, Keith, David and John Godfrey and five sisters, Kay Ocheltree, Marilyn Kiddy, Diane Tracy, Sandy Swisher and Ruth Carson. Funeral services were held Dec. 3 at Rausch Funeral Home, Owings. Interment followed at Southern Memorial Garden. Memorial Contributions can be made to Calvert Hospice, P.O. Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678, www.calverthospice. org, or to, Church by the Chesapeake, 3255 Brooms Island Road, Port Republic, MD 20676.
www.RauschFuneralHomes.com
Owings
Port Republic
410-586-0520
410-257-6181
20 American Lane
Lusby
410-326-9400
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Thursday, December-2009
Georges Hospital Center. Big Wes received his education in the Calvert County Public Schools until 1946. He stopped attending school for other commitments and obligations. However, at the age of 69, one of his greatest accomplishments was that he graduated valedictorian with his Maryland High School Diploma on June 30, 2000. In September 1952, Big Wes enlisted in The United States Army. He served in the Korean War and returned home on May 11, 1954. Big Wes entered the Masonic Victory Lodge 71 in June 1972. He was a Past Master and a 32nd Degree. Big Wes was a Business Agent for Local 832 Labor Union. He worked as a Security Guard for Seagull Beach, he worked as a well digger and he helped build the Calvert Cliff Nuclear Power Plant. Big Wes loved watching the Dallas Cowboys defeat the Washington Redskins. He loved playing cards, watching Bill OReilly (The OReilly Factor), visiting family and friends and driving people around. From May to October, Big Wes loved to hold court on the front porch of The Office. He loved talking to people; he loved giving advice for everything and to everyone. He had a love for teaching and learning new things. Most of all, Big Wes always had encouraging words for everyone. Big Wes married his beloved wife Mary S. Boome on November 14, 1958 and recently celebrated 51years of marriage on November 14, 2009. In this union, they had nine children. Mary Frances Harrod (Earl), William Randolph Kyler, Warren Thomas Claggett (Nina), Gloria Jean Foster (James), John Wesley Gross III, Carrie Elizabeth Gross, Charles Wilson Gross and Lyndon Baines Gross (LB) (Amanda); fifteen grandchildren, sixteen great- grandchildren and 1 great great- grandchild; He also leaves one sister, Marion Russell and a special niece Florence Howard (Emmaline); two sisters in-law, Angeline Boome and LeAudrey Boome. Preceded him in death; one son James Claggett; two brothers Wilson and Charles Gross; three sisters Mary Palmer, Troby Hodge and Sarah Simon. He also leaves a host of nephews, nieces, relatives and two devoted friends; William (Buncie) Bourne and Harry Gray. Funeral services were held Dec. 15 at Mt. Olive UM Church, Prince Frederick. Burial to follow at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham.
ensburg High School. He was a 28-year employee of Airway Sheet Metal Company, starting as a sheet metal worker and becoming a foreman. Rich enjoyed riding his moped around the beach area and fishing. He was also a Washington Redskin fan. He is survived by his twin brothers Mitchell and Michael Hatmaker of North Beach, MD; four sisters, Barbara Culver and her husband Chuck of Rileyville, VA, Sandra Staton and her husband Bobby of Lynchburg, VA, Wanda Mowery and her husband David of Upper Tract, WV and Rose Cranford and her husband Gary of Huntingtown, MD. Funeral services were held Dec. 8 at Rausch Funeral Home, Owings. Interment followed at Southern Memorial Gardens.
cap. Mr. Ropek spent 30 years in government service. He retired in the 1970s to take care of his mother and his sister, Josephine Kaufman. Mr. Ropek will be greatly missed by all who knew him. His kindness and generosity to others was selfless. He is survived by his niece, Carolyn Larson of Darnestown, Maryland, and his nephew Rafe Ropek of Berthoud, Colorado. Local arrangements were handled by the Rausch Funeral Home, P. A., Lusby.
and took pleasure in helping others. Her ability to bring joy to those around her with her beautiful smile, vibrant laughter, and personality will surely be missed by those who knew and loved her. Carrie leaves to cherish her precious memories, her husband, Melvin, 5 Sons, Melvin, Jr. (Angela), Ricey, David (Tangy), Dexter, and Brian Spriggs, daughter, Zoe Rawlings and 11 grandchildren. In addition to her husband and children, surviving is her Mother, Josephine A. Ennis Burley, Brother, Calvert Burley, Sister, Sarah A. Burley, Uncle, William Ennis, Mother-in-law, Dorothy Spriggs, 4 Brothers-in-law/6 Sisters-in-law, Benjamin (Ozelius), Sherman (Helen), Morris (Helen), Joseph (Thelma) and Laura Spriggs, and Susie (Charles) Duppins and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She will surely be missed by her canine child, Texas. Carrie was preceded in death by her son, Roland, sisters, Agnes Pindell, Mary Dandridge, Hettie Bell, and brother, George Burley. Funeral services were held Dec. 12 Bethel Way of the Cross Church, Huntingtown. Internment followed at Moses Cemetery, Lothian, MD.
Clifton H. Williams, 63
Clifton H. Williams, 63, died December 7, 2009 at Washington Adventist Hospital in Takoma Park, MD. He was born February 1, 1946 and was raised in Upper Marlboro, MD. He had lived in North Beach, MD for the past 18 years, and was employed as a welder. He also was a charter boat captain, and operated the Miss Dolly out of Chesapeake Beach. He was a member of the Charter Boat Captains Association, and enjoyed fishing and model boat building. He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Gertrude Williams, and by a brother Raymond L. Williams. He is survived by a daughter Gail M. Malley and her husband Ronnie of Shady Side, MD, and by a son David A. Williams of Lothian, MD. He is also survived by a granddaughter Tina Malley of Shady Side and a sister-in-law Brenda Williams of White Plains, MD. A memorial visitation was held Friday December 11 from 2-4 PM at Rausch Funeral Home, 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane, Owings, MD. Interment will be private.
John F. Ropek, 92
John F. Ropek, 92, of Lusby, died November 9, 2009 at Calvert Memorial Hospital. Mr. Ropek was born on January 3, 1917 in Dunmore, PA, the son of the late Josephine and Franciszek Ropek. Mr. Ropek attended public schools in Dunmore, graduating at the age of 16. He then went on to study Chemistry and Law at New York University, which he fondly referred to as Washington Square. Mr. Ropek was drafted into the United States Army immediately after Pearl Harbor. He soon rose to the rank of Captain and was sent to the Pacific theatre. Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, Mr. Ropek returned to Washington Square to pursue his Masters Degree in Oceanography and Meteorology. Mr. Ropek returned to government service in 1950 when he went to work for the Naval Research Center. There he was party to some of our nations greatest accomplishments. In 1958 Mr. Ropek was assigned to the USS Nautilus, the first nuclear submarine on its historic voyage under the polar ice
Gazette
Southern Calvert
Thursday, December-2009
17
Located on a private, wooded, double lot this well maintained home with tiered decks, spectacular wooded views,seasonal lake views and lake access from lot, is updated and priced to sell. A huge master suite with sitting room. walk in closet and bath. Two additional bedrooms, baths, and family room. The open flow of the spacious livingroom with a cathederal ceiling, adjoining dining room and updated kitchen, makes entertaining a breeze! Newer windows, HVAC, laminate wood floors. Be home for the holidays! Price: $250,000. If interested, please email trish. lea@c21nm.com.
urant Resta
Locally! aces to Dine Find Great Pl
This 3 bedroom 1 bath freshly painted single story rambler is located in the community of Drum Point (Lusby) about 20 minutes to PAX River and 15 minutes to the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Plant. The house is approximately 1050 sf. The home has CENTRAL heat/air, includes a WASHER and DRYER, a LARGE two-car garage capable of storing boat(s), and a fenced back yard with swing set. School bus stops in front of house. The community of Drum Point has a private beach on the Chesapeake Bay and a private boat launch. Pets negotiable. Available Nov 15, 2009. $1300.00 month + security deposit, and pet deposit if applicable. Strictly a non-smoking home. Call Janice 410.610.1459 or email jijacks@comcast.net.
Employment
Greenfield Engineering has an opening for an Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Engineer at PAX River. Successful candidate will have a Bachelors degree in an Engineering Field and minimum 1 year experience with IFF equipment. Working knowledge of IFF principals, Interrogator and Transponder Technologies for Naval platforms required. Flight test and data collection methods desired. Candidate must be a US citizen and capable of obtaining a security clearance. Greenfield Engineering offers great benefits including company paid health care and retirement fund, in a professional environment. Email resume for immediate consideration. weston_lisa@greenfieldeng.com.
$
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The Southern Calvert Gazette will not be held responsible for any ads omitted for any reason. The Southern Calvert Gazette reserves the right to edit or reject any classified ad not meeting the standards of The Southern Calvert Gazette. It is your responsiblity to check the ad on its first publication and call us if a mistake is found. We will correct your ad only if notified after the first day of the first publication ran. To Place a Classified Ad, please email your ad to: classifieds@somdpublishing.net or Call: 301-373-4125 or Fax: 301-373-4128 for a price quote. Office hours are: Monday thru Friday 8am - 4pm. The Southern County Gazette is published every other Thursday.
Out About
Garden in Lights, Annmarie Garden Surround yourself with colorful one-of-a-kind creations as you walk the mile loop. Mythical creatures, spectacular wild animals, illuminated works of art, hidden beasts and more delights all ages. New this year - golf cart tours, pet night, and special discount nights for military, police and others. Enjoy a hot drink and entertainment in the Arts Building as you visit the Ornament Show and Celebrations Glass exhibit. Check their website, www.annmariegarden.org, for dates, times and admission fees.
Saturday, Dec. 26
Toys of Olde Calvert Marine Museum, 14150 Solomons Island Road, Solomons. Join our interpreter for a special holiday tour of the Drum Point Lighthouse that highlights the life of the children who lived there and their toys. These 30-minute tours will be offered at 11:00 a.m., 1:30, and 3:00 p.m. Sign up will be at the admissions desk. Youll also have an opportunity to try your hand at some of the traditional games and toys.
hour on the hour from 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. And be sure not to miss the Aqua Invaders Game at 2:00 p.m. in the auditorium open to all ages.
T uesday, Dec. 29
Hall Handling History: Maritime Calvert Marine Museum, 14150 Solomons Island Road, Solomons. If you have visited our Maritime Hall, you know we have a lot of cool stuff, but its all behind glass. This is an opportunity to hold, touch, and explore some of our maritime artifacts hidden in our Exploration Boxes. Join an interpreter in the Maritime History Hall and dive into history. Tours will start every hour on the hour from 1:00 4:00 p.m. in the entrance of the Maritime History Hall.
Sunday, Dec. 27
Gingerbread Lighthouse Workshop Calvert Marine Museum, 14150 Solomons Island Road, Solomons. A seasonal favorite, you dont want to miss our gingerbread workshops! Design and create your own gingerbread lighthouse and decorate it any way you wish. A $2 fee is charged for supplies. Space is limited. Workshops are scheduled from 11:00 -12 noon; 1 2:00 p.m.; 2:30 3:30 p.m. No pre-registration; sign up at the admissions desk.
Thursday, Dec. 17
Southern Book Group: Any book by Laura Lippman Calvert Library Southern Branch, 20 Appeal Way, Lusby Baltimore author of many books. Her mystery series features Tess Monaghan, Private Investigator. 2-3:30pm. Call 410-326-5289.
Wednesday, Dec. 30
Digging Up the Past Calvert Marine Museum, 14150 Solomons Island Road, Solomons. Fossils are ancient clues to the past, but you have to know how to read them. Join an interpreter in our Paleontology Hall to learn the language of ancient bones, teeth, and shells. Discover why there are layers in the cliffs, and what amazing creatures roamed these shores millions of years ago. These special 30-minute tours will start every hour on the hour starting at 1:00 p.m. Sign up at the admissions desk. Also try your hand at preparing real fossils bound in matrix in the classroom at 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 23
Holiday Ornament Workshop Calvert Marine Museum, 14150 Solomons Island Road, Solomons. Join us to make your choice of a salt dough ornament, a pine cone ornament, or a punched tin ornament. Workshops will be on-going from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. in the classroom. There is a suggested donation of $2 per child. Space is limited; sign-up at the admissions desk to ensure your spot.
Monday, Dec. 28
Eco-Invaders Calvert Marine Museum, 14150 Solomons Island Road, Solomons. Join us for a special interpreter led tour of our Eco-Invaders exhibit and learn all about these invaders from afar. Featuring the infamous snakehead, youll learn how these plants and animals were introduced and what you can do about it. Join us for this special 15 minute tour every
Thursday, December-2009
19
he Patuxent High School swimming team is two meets into their season, and fourth-year head coach Shannon Doleski believes that in spite of missing a few kids early on, the Panthers will be at full strength in January. Were missing four boys on that side of things, but they put up a strong
rqu Ma BY CHRIS STEVENS (CT) info@somdpublishing.net ank y Fr Photo b John Glass of Patuxent High School guns it out during the boys 50-year freestyle during the tri-meet on Friday, Dec. 11.
fight, Doleski said of Friday nights tri-meet with Leonardtown and Huntingtown at Lackey High School. Senior Justin Koper was the Panthers lone individual winner Friday night, winning the boys 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 1:13.82, three seconds ahead of Leonardtowns Karl Engel. The Panthers lost both team meets, 185-84 to Leonardtown and 178-94 to Huntingtown. The girls were much more successful on the evening as freshman Cassie Beck and junior Jessica Simmons finished 1-2 in the girls 500-yard freestyle race. Senior Courtney Parkes also took an exciting victory in the girls 100-yard breaststroke, outlasting Leonardtowns Ashlin Rondeau by two-tenths of a second (1:08.36 to 1:08.56). The Panther girls also picked up a team win in the tri-meet, defeating Huntingtown 145-135, while falling to Leonardtown 178-102. Doleski says that with so many newcomers on the roster, its going to take some time for the Panther boys and girls to peak, but she has high hopes for the season. I have a lot of newcomers, so we just have to get them on the same page, she said. I expect our girls to be in the top three in SMAC, and I want the boys to have at least a .500 record. Everyone just has to do what they need to do.
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Thursday, December-2009
a rt
STATE NEWS
Tommy Zin
potential exists in Maryland as well, investment in todays communities and tomorrows leaders. OMalley said. We just have to harness it. We have to do the things that we need to do so that we can not only catch up with where Virginia is with aquaculture but hopefully move past them. Zinn said he doesnt see existing watermen having the money or ability to switch to aquaculture, and the plan will probably result in new people populating the aquaculture industry. Their on a big push to try to get these supporting a strong, successful education system is an watermen to convert over and start growing investment in todays communities and tomorrows leaders. their own oysters through aquaculture, but with the average age of the waterman, in the mid-fifties, I feel that the older fellas are not going to covert over. Theyre just going to work it out and either leave the water or try to work it until the end, Zinn said. This is almost a new business venture. The individual watermen are probably struggling now more than they every have, and unless theres a lot of grants or some kind of funding out there to help them I dont see the waterman having the capital to invest into seed, the price for leasing and the gear they would need to manage and grow the oysters on these leases. Part of the governors plan is to open up areas to be leased for aquaculture operations. These do-good groups like the CCA [Coastal Conservation Association] theyre more concerned with shutting the commercial industry down than they are as far as really doing something good, Zinn said. The only place were seeing natural reproduction of oysters is where the boats work at continuously every year and clean the bottom, Zinn said, adding that with the high amount of silt in the river, oysters just left to themselves will simply silt over and die without watermen stirring up the bottom with dredging. Regional hearings on the issue are planned to begin next month, including at when it least one to be scheduled in Calvert County. comes to improving lives and building develop leaders in science and technology, were develop leaders in science and technology, were when it comes to improving lives and building better communities, knowledge is power. thats helping lay the groundwork for future economic Zinn said the Watermens Association will better communities, knowledge is power. thats helping lay the groundwork for future economic about how were why the provides financial support be see if there will be an negotiations on dominion dominion provides financial supportfor growth. to learn more how were putting our putting our why for growth. to learn more about education all levels, from kindergarten through boundary lines for the expanded sanctuary ateducation at all levels, from kindergarten through energy to work educating young people, energy to work educating todays todays young people, college. and by focusing on programs that visit www.dom.com, keyword: education. areas. college. and by focusing on programs that visitwww.dom.com, keyword: education. But we feel its probably a lost cause, Zinn said. There going to have some hearings, but its been announced by the governor and what the governor wants the governor gets, he said. Zinn added that local delegates and state Sen. Roy Dyson need to come to the defense of watermen on this issue. If not everythings going to be in a museum and the watermen are going to be history, Zinn said.
Thursday, December-2009
21
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his reviewer might as well admit it: She loves Bluegrass. Not only is it one of those genres that draws from several different sources, including traditional Irish, African, Scottish and Welsh music, but the genre also feeds several more styles, including those mournful country classics about lost jobs, dead dogs and faithless wives. Bluegrass hasnt completely cornered the market on break-up ballads and treatises on cheating girlfriends, but its come pretty close, and as Joey Tippett gets up onstage at Apehangers Bar in Bel Alton, donning a black cowboy hat and singing, Does my ring hurt your finger when you go out at night?, its hard not to notice the connections. Together with guitarist Trampas Goldsmith (who makes his own instruments and sells them on www.trampasguitars.com), mandolin player Billy Thompson, Jerry McGinnis on fiddle and his wife Linda on bass, Joey has been performing with his band, the California Ramblers (named so because they are from California, Md.), for about eight years. I started by playing the guitar but I started playing the banjo three years ago, said Joey, explaining that the group members had cycled through several rotations with one another at local jam sessions, including those impromptu sing-along sessions so prevalent at the Farmers Market in Charlotte Hall, before coming together as a band. I met Joey probably 30 years ago when my dad ran a bar in Mechanicsville he would always come there and Id ride his bike, said Trampas, explaining that he had met and started playing with Joey years later at jam sessions after playing several different bands before signing on as Joeys guitarist. Jerry said he began playing fiddle at the age of 11, teaching himself how to play, and later signing on with the Tippetts much like the others. Billy also came aboard via the jam session circuit, drawing inspiration from his favorite mandolin players like Sam Bush, Ron McCoury and David Grisman. Though the majority of their set list is traditional Bluegrass, the group has been writing some of their own material, and is currently in
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Submitted photo Joey Tippett and the California Ramblers, from left, Jerry McGinnis, Tippett, Linda McGinnis, Billy Thompson and Trampas Goldsmith.
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Thursday, December-2009
ve p th an S eo ve
state program that aims to upgrade septic systems throughout Maryland, reducing the amount of nitrogen that failing systems can discharge into the Chesapeake Bay, has been met with overwhelming public demand -- and unexpected conflict. Septic system vendors and installers throughout the state have threatened to abandon the Department of Environments Onsite Sewer Disposal System program if the way their work is paid for isnt changed. Under the current program, state grants help pay the upgrade expenses of homeowners, who can, and have, taken the money and run, leaving businesses to waste time chasing checks. All these installers and all these vendors agree that this is a great program, said J.O.K. Walsh, executive director of the Caroline County Economic Development Corporation at a joint committee hearing last week. But they also say that they cannot go on with the system as it currently exists. Theyre not getting paid in a significant number of these cases, Walsh told the Joint Committee on the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area. Walsh estimates that as many as 10 percent of homeowners have left projects unpaid for. And the homeowners that tend to skip out on their payments are those with the worst septic systems in the watersheds most critical areas -- the states top priority for grant allocations. A jump in demand -- the number of systems installed from September 2008 to September 2009 rose from 375 to 1,778 -- has forced the state to prioritize grant applicants, beginning with failing septic systems in the states critical area, located within 1,000 feet of the mean high water line of tidal waters or the landward edge of tidal wetlands. About 2,800 applicants who dont fall under this distinction have been placed on a waiting list until July, said Robert Summers, deputy secretary of the Maryland Department of the Environment. The more than 400,000 septic systems in the state account for about 7 percent of the nitrogen that Maryland loads into the bay. But new technology can cut the amount of nitrogen that is discharged by these systems in half. It is this technology that is installed by companies like Towers Concrete. More than 100 installations completed by the Denton-based business have not been reimbursed by the homeowner, Walsh said. And almost 75 percent of these payments are more than 60 days past due. Its a cat and mouse game, said John Short, who manages the companys bay restoration project. For the past two months, all Ive been doing is going door to door, not even generating sales at this point, just trying to collect checks. Weve been chased off properties. Weve been threatened to be locked up for trespassing. Theres all kinds of scenarios out there, Short said. Walsh would like to see companies like Towers Concrete paid directly for their work. We need to get the money directly to the people who do the work, who do the marketing, who do the investment, Walsh said. We need to help them out by changing this policy ... and allowing the vendors to be paid directly. Otherwise, said Short, these businesses might be forced to raise the cost of septic systems, which average about $12,000, or abandon the project all together. But Summers hesitates to get the state involved in what he called a third-party situation. The homeowner is the one who is responsible for this system over the long haul. The homeowner needs to be in control of the funding situation, Summers said. The grants include a five-year maintenance and operation component, creating a long-term arrangement between the vendor and the homeowner, said Summers. Because the homeowner and that vendor need to work together over that period of five years, we just dont want the department getting in the middle of any arrangements that theyve made, Summers said. We feel that its the homeowners contractual obligation to pay the vendor.
BY CATHERINE SERVICE) KRIKSTAN (CAPITAL NEWS
Water
By Sherrod Sturrock
the
couldnt resist. Writing about this season always elicits Clement Moore style lyrics. But its all true! We are decked out and ready to welcome you for a visit this holiday season. If you missed the Solomons Christmas Walk, then pencil us in over the holidays. If you want to buy local and are hunting for that special present, our Museum Store is beyond compare for outstanding quality and unusual gifts for everyone on your list. I stopped in the store the other day and found beautiful glass votive candle holders decorated with painted birds for my husbands co-workers, an adorable stuffed otter for my young granddaughter, a custom designed cultured pearl necklace for my 20-something daughter, and great stocking stuffers for all my sisters-in-law. Score! If youve got family coming in for the holidays and are wondering what to do with them bring them here to show off the Best Bay Museum. Although we are closed Christmas day, every other day during the winter break we are offering special programming to help you make this holiday special. Have the grand kids coming? Then you wont want to miss the holiday ornament workshop or the gingerbread lighthouse workshop. Dont know what to do with the kids being out of school for two whole weeks? Were here with programs every day on such engaging topics as otters, oyster wars, ecoinvaders, old fashioned toys and old animal bones. Dont know what to do with grandpa? If he likes wooden boats, engines, or models, weve got a great solution. In short, weve got something for everyone; get the details on our web site: www.calvertmarinemuseum.com. Of course, the best part of all is what you cant see or touch. Christmas time is family time; a time for bonding, relaxing, and enjoying each other. Too often that gets lost in the stress, expectations, commercialism, and general craziness of the holiday. So, we invite you to leave that at home and bring your family here to create some holiday memories together with us. Its the best gift we can give. Sherrod Sturrock is the Deputy Director of the Calvert Marine Museum. She can be reached atsturrosa@co.cal.md.us.
Thursday, December-2009
23
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