2015-12-10 st. mary's county times

Thursday, December 10, 2015 1The County TimesPriceless

Thursday, December 10, 2015

St. Mary’s

County Timeswww.countytimes.somd.com

Photo by Guy Leonard

IN CRIMEChild Death Case Moves Ahead In Federal Court

IN LOCALAnchor Announced ForNew Shopping Center

IN LOCAL Hope For St. Clements Shores Septic Hookups

Featuring Our 12 Days of Christmas

Shopping Guide!

Out Of Business May Not Mean Off The HookCounty Treasurer Searching For $1.8 Million In Payments

Thursday, December 10, 2015The County Times2IN LOCAL

Local News 4

Business 8

Letters 9

Cops & Courts 10

Feature 11

Obituaries 12

12 Days of Christmas 15

Community Calendar 24

Church Directory 25

Entertainment 26

Games 27

Classifieds 28

Business Directory 29

Contributing Writers 30

Library Calendar 31

P.O. Box 250 • Hollywood, Maryland 20636News, Advertising, Circulation,

Classifieds: 301-373-4125www.countytimes.net

For staff listing and emails, see page 12.

CONTENTS

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

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It’s A Wonderful Life pg. 26Back Business Taxes In Focus pg. 11

- County Commissioner Tom Jarboe on the push to collect back personal property taxes from defunct businesses

“The question is how far does this go and also who is responsible? Do we really have the authority to fix this?

“I hope we can offer [amnesty] but I’m not sure.”

Thursday, December 10, 2015 3The County Times

Thursday, December 10, 2015The County Times4 Local News

By Guy LeonardStaff Writer

With their effective service life of five years coming to an end, officials with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office corrections department applied for per-mission to use unused salary money to buy new tasers for the safety of their corrections officers last month.

The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County approved of the measure at Tuesday’s meeting but not without some consternation from some elected lead-ers concerned about using money in-tended to pay for new corrections offi-cers for capital equipment costs.

Tasers fire wire leads into an inmate’s body that send a disabling charge to stop assaults or unresponsive prisoners.

“I think it’s a double edged sword no matter how you look at it,” said Com-missioner John O’Connor. “I want to break the cycle of incentivizing not fill-ing vacancies.”

O’Connor said it was a necessity to ensure corrections officers had the tools to do their jobs but he lamented the fact that the sheriff’s office returned salary money each year to the county due to the fact that it could not fill all of its va-

cant slots for corrections officers.The agency has similar issues filling

its quota of deputies.Capt. Michael Merican, commander

of the corrections division, said the vacancies were not by design and the money was not intended for use on other items despite being earmarked for salaries.

“The problem is perpetual… and its connected to conditions at the jail,” Merican said.

Working and living conditions at the jail are difficult, with the aging building lacking air conditioning and safety and security measures like doors and locks aging and breaking down.

“We still have to do our jobs,” Meri-can continued.

The total cost for the tasers taken from salary money was $27,875.

Commissioner Mike Hewitt said he supported using the salary money to get the new tasers but said some reform might be needed.

“We need to start looking at salaries if you’re [the sheriff’s office] not using it.”

[email protected]


County Commissioner Mike Hewitt said Tuesday that the Maryland Depart-ment of the Environment would begin to allow for residents of St. Clements Shores in Compton with failing septic systems to begin hooking up to the lo-cal wastewater treatment plant.

Hewitt said the information came from Del. Matt Morgan’s office and he made the annoucement at the regular meeting of the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County.

“This is a good move from MDE,” Hewitt said.

The challenge, Hewitt said, would be to finalize the agreement between the state, the county and the Metropolitan Commission (MetCom) which current-ly operates the treatment plant in St. Clements Shores.

The county would likely have strin-gent guidelines to abide by, he said, but the agreement with the state now meant that any oveflows of pollutants from the treatment plant due to the extra system

hookups would not result in fines.Those fines, which can cost thou-

sands of dollars a day per violation un-der normal circumstances, were one of the main reasons MetCom had resisted overtures from the county commis-sioners to allow the failing systems to hookup.

According to MetCom informa-tion the permit for the treatment plant from MDE allows for 100,000 gallons of treated effluent to be released each day but the plant’s capacity is already near full at 90,000 gallons per day of wastewater.

Civil fines from MDE can be as high as $10,000 per day and can even be merged with criminal fines of $25,000 for a first offense and $50,000 for a sec-ond offense.

While the agreement may offer relief for some property owners in the short term local elected leaders have said the only permanent sollution is to find some way to expand the small plant currently servicing St. Clements Shores.

[email protected]

Commissioners Approve New

Tasers For Jail

Hewitt: State Will Allow Hook Ups at

St. Clements Shores

Thursday, December 10, 2015 5The County Times Local News

Voting Rights Litigants Win

At Supreme CourtBy Guy LeonardStaff Writer

An man suing the Maryland State Board of Elections over the state’s 2011 congressional redistricting plan has won a major victory at the Supreme Court, with a unanimous decision by the High Court stating the petitioners have a right to have their suit heard by a three judge panel.

Steve Shapiro, a federal employee, had earlier petitioned a lower fed-eral District Court for relief from the 2011 plan based on First Amendment grounds, essentially that they were barred from participating in the elector-al process effectively because of politi-cal gerrymandering.

The activist group Common Cause filed a friendly brief at the High Court in support of Shapiro’s suit.

The lower court rejected Shapiro’s case, which he filed on his own behalf and represented himself before the U.S. District Court in Baltimore and later at the 4th U.S. Circuit Court in Richmond.

The lower federal court ruled that Shapiro’s claim was “not one for which

relief can be granted.”The High Court disagreed.“Accordingly, the District Judge

should not have dismissed the claim as ‘constitutionally insubstantial’ ….

“Perhaps petitioners will ultimately fail on the merits of their suit, [federal law] entitles them to make their case before a three-judge district court,” the opinion written by Justice Antonin Sca-lia stated.

In the beginning of the court’s opin-ion, Scalia wrote that the state’s con-gressional apportionment plan amount-ed to “gerrymandering” and appeared as “crazy-quilt results.”

Shapiro was pleased at the outcome, according to a prepared statement from Common Cause.

“I’m optimistic that ultimately we well prevail on the merits and voters will not have their free speech rights muted because of their political beliefs,” Shapiro stated. “The courts should put limits on gerrymanders and the role of legislatures in unduly influencing the outcome of congressional elections.”

[email protected]


Calvert County elected leaders have petitioned the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County as well as their coun-terparts in Charles County to look into building a possible replacement facility for the aging Tri-County Animal Shelter.

“Currently, Calvert County has bud-geted for our prorate share of a new shel-ter in the fiscal 2020 Capital Improve-ment Plan budget,” a missive sent to neighboring county governments stated.

There are a significant amount of is-sues noted at the shelter, located in Hughesville, noted in the Calvert com-missioners’ letter.

They include refurbishing the air con-ditioning system, building a separate area to assess animal behavior as well as a separate area for small “pocket pets” such as rabbits, guinea pigs, lizards, snakes and ferrets.

There also needs to be a room to isolate sick felines, according to Calvert’s letter.

Officials with Charles County govern-ment, who run the animal shelter, said they were unwilling to comment on the needs at the animal shelter until they had

formulated their own recommendations to share with elected leaders, accord-ing to Donna Fuqua, spokeswoman for Charles County.

Calvert County Commissioner Mike Hart said that his county provides 25 per-cent of the funding to the animal shelter but had little to no influence over how it was run and that there were numerous is-sues there that needed to be addressed.

In hearing from representatives with the Tri-County Animal Shelter Advisory Board on Tuesday, Hart said that there was no veterinarian on duty at the shelter nor was their temperature control for the animals inside.

He said “in a perfect world” he would like to see Calvert County have its own animal shelter.

In the meantime, though, he said the current shelter had to rise to a priority.

“I know we don’t have millions to throw away but there’s also something about being humane,” Hart said, adding that he would like to see the policy of put-ting down animals at the shelter changed.

“I don’t really believe in euthaniza-tion,” Hart said. “That’s a last resort.”

[email protected]

Calvert Commissioners Want Talks On New

Animal Shelter

Thursday, December 10, 2015The County Times6 Local News

Morgan: Anchor Confirmed For St. Mary’s Marketplace

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Harris Teeter will be the anchor busi-ness for a new shopping center planned for construction near the intersection of Route 4 and Three Notch Rd., The County Times has learned.

County Commissioner Todd Morgan made the announcement via social me-dia Wednesday afternoon.

Morgan said the news was “an early Christmas present.”

“We anticipate breaking ground in the not too distant future,” Morgan said. “Projects like this — and the [R/C The-aters] movie theater — take a lot of time and attention so it is especially gratify-ing when they come to fruition.”

Morgan said he was informed of the deal Dec. 8 by Dan Klein, owner of the project’s developer Klein Enterprises based in Baltimore.

The county planning commission gave final approval to the project in February of last year and the developer planned

to build more than 90,000 square feet of commercial space on the property, the site of an old, now abandoned trailer park, including a grocery store, pharma-cy and other businesses from the current Bay Country shopping center that will

later be removed.The entire development is set to be

built on 15 acres.

[email protected]

The Patuxent Partnership will host a briefing with Rear Adm. Yancy Lindsey, Commandant, Naval District Washing-ton and Capt. Heidi Fleming, Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS Pax River) Commanding Officer on Tuesday, Dec. 15 at the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall. Check-in be-gins at 8 a.m. with networking and light breakfast prior to the program start.

Rear Adm. Lindsey became the 89th Commandant of Naval District Washington in June 2015. Naval Dis-trict Washington encompasses more than 4,000 square miles, including the District of Columbia; the Maryland counties of Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Frederick, Montgomery, Prince George’s and St. Mary’s, as well as the counties of northern Virginia.

The commandant exercises area co-ordination over military and civilian employees assigned to Navy activities within the geographic area encom-

passed by Naval District Washington. One of the main goals of the comman-dant is to strengthen the operation readi-ness of shore installations, such as NAS Pax River and Naval Support Facility Indian Head.

Capt. Fleming will provide an update on NAS Pax River installations and readiness.

This event is open to the public. Ad-vanced registration is recommended at www.paxpartnership.org.

The Patuxent Partnership works with government, industry and academia on initiatives in science and technology, hosts programs of interest to NAWCAD, NAVAIR and the broader DoD commu-nity, and supports workforce develop-ment including education initiatives and professional development. Visit www.paxpartnership.org or call 301-866-1739.

Press Release

Commandant, Naval District Washington to Brief Community

The St. Mary’s County Commission on Aging’s December meeting, sched-uled for Monday, Dec. 28, has been canceled.

Meetings are generally held on the fourth Monday of each month, at 1 p.m.,

at the Garvey Senior Activity Center’s Club Room, located at 41780 Baldridge St., Leonardtown.

Press Release

Commission on Aging Cancels December Meeting


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Thursday, December 10, 2015The County Times8

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Business

By Crista DockrayStaff Writer

Local grown food, handcrafted artisan dishes, and no pre-set menu are what the unique catering business Earth to Table has to offer.

Melissa Rivera, daughter of Linda from Linda’s café, started Earth to Table in April of 2013.

Her ingredients come from local sources like the produce auction in Loveville, South-

ern Maryland Meats, and Chesapeake Boun-ty and with that every dish made is hand-made, down to the bread and butter.

Earth to Table can cater anything from corporate events to weddings. They do not have pre-set menus which allows Rivera to serve whatever the client wishes.

“We start from scratch every time,” said Rivera.

For weddings, Earth to Table offers cli-ents the ability to consolidate services to one source. For a wedding, Earth to Table can make the cake, handle event staffing, make signature cocktails, provide bar tending staff and tools, and the catering.

The also offer a package which allows clients to choose from a bridal shower, a rehearsal dinner, a Sunday brunch, a baby shower, or the wedding itself. If they book three events with Earth to Table, they receive a discount.

Rivera promises that each meal and expe-rience will be unique and no guest will re-ceive the same dish more than once.

“It’s three different experiences under one roof,” said Rivera.

Unfortunately, using natural products means that Earth to Table can only provide its services from April to December. If cater-ing is needed between January and March, Rivera can still help. Although the food will not come from local sources, she can still ca-ter through Linda’s catering.

In addition, at Linda’s Café, Rivera will be

selling her Christmas baskets, which range from $15 to $50. Pre-order baskets with a 24-hour turn around time that are stuffed with fresh, handmade products such as pickled beats, applesauce, stuffed ham sausage, old bay sausage, and Jalapeño bacon.

The next stop for Earth to Table Catering Co. will be the Bay District Bridal Show at the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department in Lexington Park on Sunday, Jan. 17.

For more information on Earth to Table, find them on Facebook at www.faebook.com/earth2tablecatering. To book Earth to Table, call Rivera at 240-925-7644 or email [email protected].

[email protected]

Photos provided by Earth to Table

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James Manning McKay - Founder

Eric McKay - Associate Publisher..................................ericmckay@countytimes.net

Kit Carson - General Manager.................................kitcarson@somdpublishing.net

Tobie Pulliam - Office Manager...............................tobiepulliam@countytimes.net

Kasey Russell - Graphic Designer.......................................kaseyrussell@countytimes.net

Guy Leonard - Reporter - Government, [email protected]

Crista Dockray - Reporter - Business, [email protected]

Sales Representatives........................................................................sales@countytimes.net

Contributing Writers:

Ron Guy

Laura Joyce

Debra Meszaros

Shelby Oppermann

Linda Reno

Terri Schlichenmeyer

Doug Watson

Muirgheal Wheeler

[email protected]

P.O. Box 250Hollywood, Maryland 20636News, Advertising, Circulation,

Classifieds: 301-373-4125

www.countytimes.net

Letters to the Editor

St. Mary’s County Museum DivisionSt. Clement’S ISland muSeum ChrIStmaS Open hOuSe

See Santa and Mrs. Claus from noon to 2 p.m. COSMIC Flute Choir 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Colonist Dr. Thomas Gerrard visits at 2 p.m.38370 Point Breeze Rd. • Colton’s Point, MD

301-769-2222 • www.stmarysmd.com/recreate/museums

Saturday Dec. 12 - Free Admission All Day“Christmas in Saint Mary’s County”

I would like to extend a big heart-felt thanks to all of you that have made very kind and generous donations to me through GO FUND ME, gift cards, cash, food brought to the Solomons Fire House were a saving grace at a time when such a devastation stops you in your tracks. Such a huge out pouring of Thoughtfulness and Caring means more

that my words can say. Thank You again to all Who were Involved in helping me stay positive. It is still an ongoing pro-cess and I will keep You informed on the rebuilding of my Home.

Thank You,

Michael Heim

A Thank You To Those Who Have Helped

Hi, my family and I moved to St. Mary's County Christmas Eve 2014 when my hus-band and I married that day. Since then, we've moved his mom in to in home hospice where we took care of her full time. She was able to meet our new born, her grandchild and then passed away peacefully at St. Mary's Hospice House. Then, our oldest took on football for Pax a River Raiders 10u team where they won every game they played, including the Mexico Independence Bowl and their Super Bowl. When joining football, that's where we got to meet friends. Both my husband and I are kids at heart during Christmas. Although, we've lost my mom-in-law, we wanted to keep the spirit of Christmas very much alive. We've met wonderful medical staff with St. Mary's Hospice and St. Mary's Hospice House, and the Pax River Raiders community. We've met under privileged families and have wanted to really help. To thank St. Mary's County for welcoming us into this fine community, be-ing there for us during our most dreaded mo-ments of my mom-in-law's illness and passing, we wanted to do something special. We have

a newborn and certainly wanted to celebrate life this year, both present and in spirit, so we decked out our home. We created a Christmas music dancing light show. We are not present off the street and don't have many neighbors surrounding us. So I was hoping I can grab your attention to help in spread the word. We are ever so appreciative of the welcome and hospitality of St. Mary's County and wanted to have the kids and families and St. Mary's Hospice staff come for a drive thru to view the Christmas light show. Please let me know if you can help make this happen. I feel as though, even though I was recently laid off from work and have it trying emotional and financial times, nothing brings happiness and joy than watching people light up and smile. Our address is 20596 Goddard Road, Lex-ington Park MD 20653. Come and enjoy and leave with holiday spirit.

Kind Regards,

Nabiha Zayat-Calcutt

Hello everyone!I hope you all had a great Thanks-

giving with your families!I am reaching out to all of you be-

cause I consider you all my "local CP peep's" :-) In one way or another you all have supported our family throughout our journey of raising our own son, Jacob, who has Cerebral Palsy. We could not be more grate-ful for your continued support and friendship. As many of you know, we are in the process of standing up the Reaching for the Stars (RFTS) Mary-land Chapter to provide a better re-source to families of children with CP and similar motor disabilities HERE in Maryland.

I received the email below from Partners for Success yesterday af-ternoon in regards to a 14 year old girl named Heidi, with Cerebral Pal-sy, who will be coming to our area from Honduras VERY soon. She is currently in a shelter in New York and my understanding is the parents are in need of some assistance to accom-modate her when she arrives. I talked to the representative at the Judy Cen-ter this afternoon, and I also plan to meet with the family to see what kind of additional equipment they might need. I am in the process of finding a contractor who would be willing to assist the family in building a wheel-chair ramp for their house too. De-pending on how cheap we can get it... we may have to throw together a little fundraiser and/or reach out to local businesses for donations.

In addition to cerebral palsy, Heidi is non verbal and has epilepsy and

scoliosis. I plan to be in contact with someone soon to determine what kind of communication device will work best for her.

If you are interested and have the time to help please let me know! Par-ents - please start thinking about any unused items/equipment you have laying around that you might be will-ing to donate. Teachers/Providers - I may need your assistance reaching out to other families in SOMD who also have children with motor disabilities - without violating any privacy rules :-) ...and of course, the more volunteer power we have the better!!! Heidi is 14 years old, but I hear she is tiny for her age so I do not know any clothing sizes yet.

This is not only a great opportunity to help out a local family in need, but it's also an opportunity to bring our little community together in SOMD. The goal is to get Heidi here in the next week or two so she can spend her first Christmas in the U.S. with her family. I plan to do everything I can to help this family enjoy their first Christmas together. With your help I know we can make it happen!

Please reply back and let me know if you're with us!

I will be sure to pass along more de-tails as I receive them.

Thanks! Brad Searle(757)630-9416Executive Board Member, Reaching for the Stars. A Foundation of Hope for Children with Cerebral Palsy.

Reaching for the Stars(RFTS) Maryland Chapter Christmas Light Show

Thursday, December 10, 2015The County Times10 Cops & Courts

Philip H. Dorsey IIIAttorney at Law

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The latest ruling by a U.S. District Court Judge in the case of a child that died while confined in a hot car on Patuxent River Naval Air Station last year suggests that the prosecution in the case must prove the boy’s father in-tentionally left the boy in the car if they want a conviction.

John Junek, of Leonardtown, was ini-tially charged Sept. 4 of 2014 with negli-gent manslaughter for leaving his infant son in the car while he went to work and even attended several meetings, all the while the temperature in the car reached 85 degrees.

Those charges were later reduced to illegally confining the child, which un-der the Maryland statute would mean Junek, 41, would face only 30 days incarceration.

For months U.S. attorneys have ar-gued that the state’s statute equally pun-ished negligently leaving a child in a ve-hicle just as much as it did adults who intentionally left a child under the age of 8 unattended.

In his ruling, Judge Charles B. Day disagreed, stating that the law included an element of knowledge or intent on a defendant’s part.

Junek’s lawyer, Robert Bonsib, con-tends that his client had no intent to leave

his son in the car that day.“He just forgot,” Bonsib told The

County Times. “This was not a know-ingly committed act.”

Bonsib contends that if a judge rules that Junek’s actions were not intentional, his client would not be found guilty.

The criminal complaint against Junek filed last year showed he had dropped his older, 4-year-old son off at pre-school that morning before going on base to his office at Building 2187.

Junek told law officers that he was supposed to drop the infant, just 17 months old, off at the child development center on base but failed to do so, leav-ing him in a rear-facing child seat from about 8:50 a.m. to 3:20p.m.

At nearly half past 3p.m. Junek re-ceived a call from his wife to ask if he had the car seat and then realized, ac-cording to the criminal complaint, that he might not have dropped his son off.

Junek found the infant unconscious and unresponsive in the hot car, the complaint said, and he called emergency responders.

Junek later told law officers that he had even come back out to his car at just before 1 p.m. for a meeting in another building, drove to that destination and had to air out the car because it was so hot.

[email protected]

Breaking and Entering to a Mo-tor Vehicle

Unknown suspect(s) forced en-try into a motor vehicle and stole property near Hill Commons at St. Mary’s College. CASE# 71098-15

Theft Victims report their cash was

stolen while having their flooring replaced. The investigation is ongo-ing. CASE# 71046-15

Breaking and Entering to a Mo-tor Vehicle

Approximately six weeks ago, unknown suspect(s) entered a mo-tor vehicle and stole property on the 26000 block of Hills Drive in Mechanicsville. The property was recovered in Montgomery County. CASE# 71171-15

Hate Crime A victim located in Indiana con-

tacted the Sheriff’s Office stating he believed a suspect in St. Mary’s County made a death threat against him because of his religion. CASE# 71210-15

As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office pro-vides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not spe-cific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.

Note: The information con-tained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up in-vestigations may reveal different information.

If you have any questions re-garding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jenni-fer Stone, Public Information Of-ficer, at 301-475-4200, ext. 1922, or by email at [email protected].

Press Release

Thursday, December 10, 2015 11The County Times ObituariesFeature Story

Treasurer Pursuing Back Personal Property Taxes

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Some businesses that had closed their doors up to seven years ago have re-ceived a shock recently when the state’s Department of Assessements and Taxa-tion (SDAT), through County Treasurer Christie Kelly’s office, are pursuing personal property taxes the state claims they owe even though they have long been out of business.

The problem has many sources but perhaps the most vexxing is that many owners failed to properly file the paper-work to officially disolve their business and avoid paying further taxes on equip-ment or other items used in their busi-ness’s day to day operations.

Kelly said her office has engaged the services of an Upper Marlboro law firm to get as much of the back taxes as pos-sible — her office estimates that there could be about $1.8 million in back per-sonal property taxes to be collected.

The firm of Carl A. Harris and Asso-ciates is contracted to keep 30 percent of whatever they can collect, Kelly said, and has so far filed 115 law suits in pur-suance of the revenues.

Kelly is pursuing the taxes back to 2008.

“After seven years they are no lon-ger collectable,” Kelly told The County Times. “The dissolution paperwork is rarely filed and even when it is, there are often mistakes.”

Kelly said state law obligates her to pursue the taxes.

“It’s not a fun part of my job,” Kelly said. “It’s a wake up call, you’ve got to fix this.”

By not filing the paper work proper-ly, Kelly said, there is no proof that the business has stopped operating and the taxes on the personal property of that business continue to accrue.

Without the proof of dissolution, not only does the tax on business items con-tinue, but interest and penalties do as

well.The penalites do not end there.If a business does not file a personal

property tax assessment with SDAT each year, the state will automatically take the last year they filed and double the assessment for the following year, effectively doubling the amount of back personal property taxes.

This penalty can hit businesses still in operation as well as as those that are not but have not filed their dissolution records.

The back personal property taxes some defunct business owners face can run the gamut from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.

There is hope, though, Kelly said.If the owner of a defunct business can

provide paperwork proving they dis-solved their business some time ago — occassionally the paperwork is either misfiled or is lost — they can expunge the tax bill and avoid the stiff penalities.

However, even businesses that have this proof available are reluctant to come forward, she said.

“Sometimes they just try to ignore it

or hope it goes away,” Kelly said, adding that providing the paperwork could still mean a defunct or still operating busi-ness may have to pay some portion of their bill.

The entire issue puts focus on the de-bate over what to do locally about the personal property tax.

Last year Del. Matt Morgan tried un-successfully to pass a bill that would have eliminated the personal property tax for St. Mary’s County, but it failed to even get out of committee.

That failure helped trigger a push for changing to code home rule, even though the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County have the authority to bring to zero the personal property tax rate each year on their own.

Commissioner Tom Jarboe said Kel-ly’s pursuit of the money was necessary, even though it was bound to be unpop-ular and at least had the appearance of taking advantage of businesses.

“I can understand where that percep-tion can be derived,” Jarboe said. “But I think she’s doing her job.”

For now, he said, the commissioners are still trying to learn all they can about

the problem and there are more ques-tions than answers.

“The question is how far does this go and also who is responsible?” Jarboe said. “Do we really have the authority to fix this?

“I hope we can offer [amnesty] but I’m not sure.”

Mary Slade, the owner of a local tax preparation business, said several of her clients who had owned businesses that closed years ago were caught completely by surprise by the notices to pay back taxes.

“They thought that the tax liability ceased with their business,” Slade said, adding that while some did not file their dissolution forms, others did and they were either lost or misfiled.

“It’s a real pitfall,” Slade said. “And the state of Maryland doesn’t contact them about paperwork not being filed.

“To never receive a notice and four or five years later to get a notice on some-thing they didn’t even know was out there, it’s a shock.”

[email protected]

“It’s not a fun part of

my job. It’s a wake up call, you’ve got to

fix this.”St. Mary’s County Treasurer Christie Kelly

Photo by Guy Leonard


The County Times runs complimentary obituaries as submitted by funeral homes and readers. We run them in the order we receive them. Any submissions that come to

[email protected] after noon on Mondays may run in the following week’s edition.

Bernard L. Baxter, 83

Bernard L. Baxter, 83, of Lexington Park, Md. died on Dec. 4 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on April 28, 1932 in Central City, K.Y. to the late John F. Baxter and Lorene Garst.

Bernard proudly enlisted in the United States Navy on Oct. 19, 1951 and dedi-cated over 20 years of service before his retirement on Nov. 20, 1971 as an Avia-tion Machinist’s Mate Chief Petty Offi-cer. During his service he served in many countries, including Iceland, Holland, New Zealand and Germany. He earned the National Defense Service Ribbon, Navy Occupation Service Medal, Korean Medal and United Nations Service Medal. After retiring from the Navy, he worked for Bates Associates, Hewitt Lumber and Dyson Lumber before retiring again. His hobbies included fixing power tools and lawnmowers. He was an exceptional bak-er and made many delicious breads and cakes. He was a proud member of AA, with over 35 years, in which he sponsored and helped many people. He was a mem-ber of First Methodist Church in Central City, K.Y., American Legion Post 061 in Central City, K.Y., Moose Lodge #898 at Portsmouth, VA, Fleet Reserve Patuxent

River Branch 93. Bernard is survived by his grandchil-

dren, Kellie Turner (Junior) of Califor-nia, Md. and Brentt Dobson of Colum-bia, S.C.; his great grandchildren, Robert Norris and Rheanne Turner, both of Cali-fornia, Md.; and her sister, Marion Wer-ner of Allentown, Pa. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his siblings, Virginia Cummings, Robert Baxter and Anita Anderson; and his lov-ing companion, Julia K. Stanley.

Family received friends on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2015 from 5 to 7 p.m., with prayers recited by Reverend John Ball at 7 p.m., at Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hol-lywood Rd., Leonardtown, Md. 20650. Interment was private.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lexington Park Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 339, Lexington Park, Md. 20653. Condo-lences may be made to www.brinsfieldfu-neral.com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.

Ann Trossbach, 77

Ann Trossbach, 77, passed away at her residence in Dameron, Maryland on Monday, Nov. 30.

Ann was born in Sa-vannah, Georgia on Sep-

tember 26, 1938. She was the daughter of the late Dow and Alma Seago Love. Her family moved to the Southern Maryland area in the late 1940s with the growth of the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. She met and married Joe Trossbach who was the love of her life. They made their home on Trossbach Road in Dameron. Her husband Joe predeceased her in Jan. 29, 1986.

Ann was a Postal Worker for 25 years before retiring in 1993 as Post Master at Ridge Post Office. She also served as Post Master at Tall Timbers Post Office and a part time Postal Clerk at Dam-eron Post Office. After her retirement she worked seasonally as a Tax Preparer at Jackson Hewitt in Lexington Park. She was a Parishioner of St. Michael’s Church in Ridge, Maryland and a mem-ber of the Ladies of Charity.

She was a loving mother to Jo Ann Trossbach, Sherry Trossbach and Ken-ny Trossbach (Marianne). She leaves behind six grandchildren, Tommy Coombs, Shelly Coombs, Sarah Tross-bach, Victoria Trossbach, Tanner and Jenna Bullock; and three great grand children Lauren, Claude, and Marisa.

In addition to her children and grand children Ann leaves behind a sister, Alma Dean Williams; sister in-laws, Mary Alice Washburn, Jenny Washburn, Brenda Love Cameron, Edna Tross-bach, Carolyn Wood, Mary Lee Raley,

Pat Buckner, Jane Trossbach; brother in laws, Charley Wood and Ormand Buck-ner. In addition to her husband, Joe, she was predeceased by an infant daughter, Mary Teresa Trossbach; siblings, Mary Mercer, Earl Washburn, Dorothy Smith, Bill Washburn, and Clarence Love; sis-ter in law, Margaret Trossbach; brother in laws, Marvin Smith, Chet Williams, Pete Trossbach, John (Stump) Tross-bach, and David Trossbach.

Family received friends for Ann’s Life Celebration on Friday, Dec. 4 from 5 un-til 8 p.m. at St. Michael’s Church, 16555 Three Notch Rd., Ridge, Md. 20680. Prayers were recited at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. at St. Mi-chael’s Church. Interment followed in the church cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers were; Tommy Coombs, Tanner Bullock; Claude “G” Queen; Sarah Trossbach; Dustin Raley and Casey Raley.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Michaels’s School or a charity of your choice.

Condolences may be made to www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.

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Charlotte A. Morse, 91

Charlotte A. Morse, 91, of Lexington Park, Md. died Thursday, Dec. 3 while visiting her daugh-ter in Fleming Island, Fla.

She was born on Oct. 14, 1924, in Chicago, Il-linois to the late Joseph and Louise Budiseh Jablonicky.

Charlotte lived a long, productive life as a wife and mother. While raising eight children, at times on her own while her husband was sea duty. She also was a long time member of the Chief Wives Club, volunteered for the Red Cross, a member of the Red Hat Society, a seam-stress, volunteered for Bay District Se-niors, and even was a substitute mail carrier for a time. She long enjoyed play-ing cards with friends every week.

Charlotte had an active, inquiring mind and continued to learn new things until the end. She loved using he mini IPad to check her email, catch up with grandchildren on Facebook, find infor-mation on the Internet and read eBooks. She loved to create gifts for family and friends, knitting, crocheting, and mak-ing jam until her end.

She is survived by her six children, Carolyn LaChance and her husband Bob of Camp Springs, Md.; James Morse and his wife Susan of Bethlehem, Pa.; Bill Morse of Lexington Park, Md.; Linda Durkin and her husband Matt of St. Ini-goes, Md.; Janet Harper and her husband Henry of Poquoson; Virginia and Lisa Darby of Fleming Island, Fla., 20 grand-children, 13 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

Family received friends on Wednes-day, Dec. 9 at 5 from 8 p.m. at Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Rd., Leonardtown, Md. 20650, with a prayer service at 7 p.m. Reverend Michael Sa-jnog officiating. Interment was private.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, Post Of-fice Box 758517, Topeka, K.S. 66675 or American Heart Association, Post Of-fice Box 5216, Glen Allen, Va. 23058

Condolences may be made to www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.

Mary Cecelia Raba, 63

Mary Cecelia Raba “Nona”, 63 of Waldorf, Md. passed away on Dec. 4 in La Plata, Md. She was born on March 12, 1952 in La Plata, Md. to the late Theresa Elder Dyer and Julian Gar-diner Dyer. She was the loving wife to Oscar Raba, III whom she married on Oct. 10, 1970 in Elk-ton, Md. and he preceded her in death. Mary graduated from Archbishop Neal School in 1970 and went on to gradu-ate from Charles County Community College in 1989 with an AA degree in Nursing. She was a Registered Nurse at Charles Regional Medical Center where

she worked for over 23 years. Mary be-longed to the American Association of Critical Care Nurses and St. Peter’s Cath-olic Church. She enjoyed sewing, embroi-dery, and spoiling her granddaughter’s. She is survived by her children, Scott Raba (Rachel) of Rockville, Md., Ryan Raba of La Plata, Md., and Brandy Viti-elliss (Nick) of Waldorf, Md.; grandchil-dren, Gabriella Raba, and Hayden Viti-elliss; siblings, Eleanor Adams of Val-rico, Fla., Brenda Dodson (David) of La Plata, Md., Richard Dyer (Mary Jo) of La Plata, Md., Susan Gardiner of North Hutchinson Island, Fla., Michael Dyer (Kim) of New York, N.Y., Brian Dyer of Faulkner, Md., and Nancy Thompson (Hoover) of Bel Alton, Md., and numer-ous nieces and nephews.

The family received friends on Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 10 to 11 a.m. in St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Waldorf, Md. where a Mass of Christian Burial was offered at 11 a.m. with Monsignor Bill Parent officiating. Interment was private. In lieu of flowers the family ask for contributions to be made in Mary’s name to Charles County HARC, P.O. Box 2367, Waldorf, Md. 20604. For more information or to leave the family a condolence please visit www.rausch-funeralhomes.com.

Kirk R. Fones, 69

Kirk R. Fones, 69, of Hollywood, Md., passed away on Dec. 3 surround-ed by his wife, daugh-ters, grandchildren, and sisters. Born on Oct. 10, 1946, he was the son of the late Margaret Braw-ley, and William Fones. Kirk was the loving husband of Mary A. Fones, whom he married on July 17, 1965 in St. John’s Catholic Church Hollywood, Md. Kirk is survived by his children: Michelle (Ricky) Kohut, of Waldorf, Md., Karen (Stevie) Mis-tretta, Maggie (Greg) Redman both of Hollywood, Md., 11 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Siblings; Jug (Mary) Brawley of Tulsa, OK, Nancy (Dan) Ford, and Dorothy (Danny) Val-landingham both of Hollywood, Md. He was preceded in death by his brother Steven Bones. Kirk graduated from Leonardtown High School in 1964; he was a lifelong St. Mary’s County, Md. resident, and he was a waterman.

Kirk lost his courageous battle with cancer, his granddaughters Taylor and Sarah were there Pops primary caregiver for his last days. He was a member of the Moose Lodge and enjoyed his week-ly card games with the boys. He worked with his hands building birdhouses, and playhouses for his grandchildren. Kirk loved water skiing, snow skiing, crab-bing, oystering and the water. Kirk loved his boat the “Mama Dot”, his family, and was the greatest Pop. Kirk and Mary cel-ebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, Dec. 6 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. with prayers recited at 3 p.m. in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, Md. A Funeral Service

was held on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 10 a.m. in St. John’s Catholic Church Hollywood, Md. with Rev. Sheldon Reese officiat-ing. Interment followed in Joy Chapel Cemetery Hollywood, Md. Pallbearers were; Michael Emory, Kirk Prinsen, Kyle Vallandingham, Steven Potts, Dan-iel Vallandingham, and Mickey Emory. Honorary Pallbearers were: Donald Hill, Freddy Clark, Ed Ski, Gary Garner and Barry Mattingly.

Contributions may be made to the Hollywood Methodist Church P.O. Box 100 Hollywood, Md. 20636, and/or St. John’s Catholic Church 43950 St. John’s Rd. Hollywood, Md. 20636.

Barbara Ann McDonald Lott Cunningham Bowden

Barbara Ann McDonald Lott Cun-ningham Bowden passed away Thanks-giving Day, Nov. 26, 2015 surrounded by family.

Barbara is survived by her best friend of 40 years, Martha “Patti” Carroll, her son Thomas (JoAnne) Gagnon and grandson Michael Gagnon, and Patti’s son Vincent “Randy” Carroll. She is also survived by her brothers and sisters, Francis (Eileen) McDonald, Virginia McDonald (Bobby Stevens), Marilyn Essex, Deidre (Marc) Putney, William McDonald, David (Joyce) McDonald,

sister-in-law Laverne McDonald and various nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Barbara was pre-deceased by daugh-ter Tracey Lott and brothers Thomas and Robert McDonald. As well as ex husbands Russell Lott and Dennis Cunningham.

Barbara was a lifelong, number one Redskin fan who was actively involved in the Redskin community.

Rather than funeral services, Barbara chose a Celebration of Life, which will be held January 23 at the Hollywood Voulunter Fire Department located at 248081 Three Notch Rd. Hollywood Md. 20636. From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, Md. 20650.

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The County Times runs complimentary obituaries as submitted by funeral homes and readers. We run them in the order we receive them. Any submissions that come to

[email protected] after noon on Mondays may run in the following week’s edition.


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• Local business may provide a more personal touch. Buying from national chains has its advantages, but customer service is not always one of them. Should your loved ones encounter problems with their gift that requires assistance, they might be forced to wait on the phone for extended periods of time as they and thousands of others wait for cus-tomer service representatives to an-swer their calls. Local businesses do not deal with nearly the volume of customers as national retailers and, therefore, are capable of addressing concerns more quickly and person-ally than large chains.

Buying local not only benefits small business owners, but it also pays dividends for their customers and the communities they call home.

Shopping local this holiday season can benefit your community in various ways.



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As families spread out across the country and even across the globe, the holidays can become a little more dif-ficult to navigate. According to AAA, a federation of motor clubs throughout the United States, roughly 90 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more for year-end holidays.

Families that are spread out must decide where to spend the holidays together. But in some cases, families can’t all be together, so celebrations must be handled remotely and gifts shipped to waiting recipients.

Shopping for gifts may have taken some time, but now you will have to figure out how to get those gifts where they need to go. The following are some pointers for holiday celebrants who are driving, flying, taking a bus, or shipping gifts.

Shipping datesIf the goal is to purchase and ship

gifts near and far, starting early has its advantages. Thousands upon thousands of cards and packages are shipped each day during the holiday season. In 2013, shipping giant UPS projected 132 mil-lion deliveries during the last week before Christmas, and actual figures exceeded those expectations.

Many shipping services will get packages to recipients on time, but cus-tomers can help them along by sending them several weeks before the holi-days. Shipping later in the season may incur additional fees for priority ship-ping. Always check sellers’ “purchase by” dates to ensure items will arrive on time.

Items that will be shipped interna-tionally should include a detailed de-scription as well as the value of the package. Presents under a certain value may be duty-free or tax-exempt. Check with customs to get a better idea of the shipping regulations.

Plane rideAirlines have specific regulations in

place regarding which items can and cannot be brought on planes, at least in-side of the cabin. Thanks to increased security measures, restrictions are greater than they once were. Transpor-tation Security Administration officers may have to inspect items for safety purposes. It may be better to leave gifts unwrapped and then wrap them after the flight to avoid hassles during the screening process. Liquids, including foods, may need to be put in a checked bag if they exceed 3.4 ounces. Consider shipping delicate items ahead of time if you are concerned about breakage.

Packing the carIf a holiday road trip is in your fu-

ture, space constraints may require you to be a little creative when packing the car. Shop for smaller gifts, including gift cards, which are easier to trans-port. Advise family and friends that you will have limited space so they should not go overboard with regard to gifts given to you in return.

Heed safety precautions and do not obscure driver visibility in the car by stacking presents too high. Also, se-cure boxes and packages in the car so they do not slide or move around. Any-thing that is not secured can become airborne in the event of a collision, increasing the risk for injury. Items placed on roof racks should be tightly secured so they don’t fall off and pres-ent a hazard.

Those who will be traveling for the holidays should plan how to transport any gifts they will be bringing along long before the day comes to hit the road.

Transporting Holiday Gifts



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Thursday, December 10, 2015The County Times24To submit your event listing to go in our Community Calendar, please email [email protected] with the listing details by 12 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to our Thursday publication.Community Calendar

Month Long

“Small Works” Holiday Art ShowArtworks@7th (9100 Bay Ave., North Beach)

As the Holiday season ap-proaches, once again the artists of Artworks@7th have been bus-ily preparing one-of-a-kind “Small Works” trinkets, stocking stuffers, and other unique works of art to help customers new and old cel-ebrate the season and be a gift giv-ing superstar. This special show will run to Jan. 17th. So come on out and peruse the distinctive works of the Gallery’s creative and talented local artists – you might just find that something special for friends, family, or even for yourself! Gal-lery Hours are Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Our tele-phone number is 410-286-5278 or you can visit our website at www.artworksat7th.com or our Face-book page at www.facebook.com/Artworkat7th.

Annemarie Garden In LightsAnnmarie Sculpture Garden & Art Center (13480 Dowell Rd., Dowell)

Runs from Friday, Dec. 4 through Saturday, Jan. 2; 6 to 9 p.m. each evening (weather permitting.) The show is closed Dec. 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 24, 25. New this year, the light show will include musical lights and new walking paths, plus it will snow every Friday and Saturday night in the Winter Wonderland (weather permitting.) Annmarie Garden In Lights features hundreds of hand-made “light sculptures” arranged in spectacular scenes, including a wild animal disco party, a galactic space adventure, a tribute to Mary-land, ferocious dinosaurs, a glitter-ing tour under the ocean, a colorful garden, as well as beautiful prin-cesses and evil villains. Bring your camera for incredible family photo opportunities! Annmarie Garden In Lights also includes 23 nights of great bands and performers, along with the “Holiday I Spy” game for kids, great shopping, a Visit with Santa, the Hardesty Haven Holiday Café, and so much more! Special nights include: a Visit with Santa, Holiday Shopping Markets, Golf Cart Tours, Holiday Sweater Night, and Pet Night. Admission is $6; free for children (4 and under;) members free. For detailed infor-mation and a discount coupon, visit www.annmariegarden.org or call 410-326-4640.

Angel Wings and ThingsSt. Michael’s Church (16560 Three Notch Rd., Ridge)

Angel Wings and Things Thrift Store will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sun-day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., except holiday weekends. We have a huge selection of winter clothes, coats, shoes, and so much more. We also have a great baby room, kids’ toy room, and tons of wonderful Christ-

mas items. All items are in terrific shape, and very reasonably priced. We look forward to having you visit us! For any questions, please con-tact Marti Lloyd at St. Michael’s School, at 301-872-5454.

Open Skate NightsLeonard Hall Recreation Center (23145 Leonard Hall Dr., Leonard-town)- every Saturday, 6 to 9 p.m.

Looking for an evening of roller skating fun? Well, strap on your skates and bring your family and friends to Leonard Hall Recreation Center in Leonardtown! For all ages, $5 per person. Skates avail-able for rental at $2.50 per person or bring your own. For more infor-mation, please call 301-475-4200 ext. 1800 or 1801.

Thursday, Dec. 10

30th Annual Doll & Train Holiday ExhibitSt. Clement’s Island Museum (38370 Point Breeze Rd. Colton’s Point)- noon to 4 p.m.

A holiday exhibit themed “Christ-mas in St. Mary’s County.” Exhib-its will feature special doll collec-tions from the Black-eyed Susan and Southern Maryland Doll Clubs. Other highlights include working miniature trains and a hands-on train set that children can operate.

Fall World Cinema SeriesHigher Education Center (44219 Airport Rd., California)- 6:30 p.m.

Showing “Where Do We Go Now (2011.)” From Lebanese Actor and director Nadine Labaki. This film gives us an insightful look at rela-tion between Christians and Mus-lims. They peacefully live side by side in a remote village until outside forces enter by means of the first TV set. Introduction by Jim Ber-shon. Free admission.

Friday, Dec. 11

CSM Barbershop ConcertCSM Leonardtown Campus (22950 Hollywood Rd., Leonardtown)- 8 p.m.

Southern Mix, directed by Paul Douglass, is a men’s barbershop chorus which rehearses on CSM’s La Plata Campus. They will per-form a variety of holiday and sea-sonal songs. $5 in advance, $7 day of event. For information, contact [email protected], 301-934-7828, or visit www.csmd.edu/Arts.

Saturday, Dec. 12

Ninth Annual Christmas MarketAll Saints Episcopal Church (100 Lower Marlboro Rd., Sunderland)- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Expert craftsmen, gourmet co-coa, Glühwein, and home-baked goods make the 9th Annual Christ-mas Market the place to be. Rain, snow or shine! Free admission and parking. Proceeds benefit parish &

community projects.

Breakfast with SantaDr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center (24005 Point Lookout Rd., Leonardtown)- 8 to 11 a.m.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast pre-pared by the Forrest Center’s Cu-linary Arts students. Admission to this event, which includes break-fast, is $10 for adults, $5 for stu-dents and free for children 4 and younger. Escape the hustle and bustle of the holiday, enjoy some home cooking, and let the little ones check out the face painting room. Your children can even dec-orate their very own gingerbread man for $2. Santa’s Workshop will be available for children to pur-chase small gifts (most under $10.) Forrest Center students will assist the children. The gifts they pur-chase will be wrapped. For more information, contact Chef Amanda Granados at 301-475-0242, x28210 or [email protected].

Holiday Craft FairJesus the Divine Word Church (885 Cox Rd., Huntingtown)- 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

All items for sale handmade by local crafters. Baked goods and lunch available for sale.

Christmas Open House at Craft Guild Shop26005 Pt. Lookout Rd. (Rt. 5, next to MD Antique Ctr.,) Leonardtown- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

You are invited to the Craft Guild Shop’s Christmas Open House. 10% off your total purchase. Come meet our artists and join us for some snacks, hot cider and win-ter time cheer. Shop from a wide variety of handmade ornaments, decorations, and other gift items for those special people on your gift list. Food bank donations wel-comed. For additional information, please call 301-997-1644. Please join us.

Contra DanceChrist Episcopal Church Parish Hall (37497 Zach Fowler Rd., Chaptico)- doors open 7 p.m.

Southern Maryland Traditional Music and Dance will host a contra dance featuring caller Greg Frock. Contra is a traditional American style of social dance and is a huge amount of fun (and exercise) for the whole family! 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! Begin-ners are encouraged to arrive at 7 to get some instruction in the various dances. Admission is $10 for non-SMTMD members; $6 for members (band members are free.) No special clothing is required! You need to be comfortable, to move freely. There will be an ice cream social following the dance. For

more information and directions go to www.smtmd.org

Clear the Cat Castle20845 Callaway Village Way, Calla-way- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The St. Mary’s Animal Welfare League is looking to rehome as many animals as possible. Adop-tion fees reduced – adult cats are $30, kittens are $75. Foster, volun-teer, donate. To donate an adoption fee go to www.smawl.org, click do-nate and put the cat’s name in be-fore the dollar amount.

Sunday, Dec. 13

Chesapeake Community Chorus PracticeNorth Beach Union Church (8912 Chesapeake Ave., North Beach)- 4 to 6 p.m.

The Chesapeake Community Chorus, an all-volunteer chorus that raises funds for local chari-ties, is looking to add singers to the chorus. No auditions are required. Contact Larry Brown, Director, at 301-855-7477 or email him at [email protected].

Breakfast with SantaSt Michael’s School (16560 Three Notch Rd., Ridge)- 8:30 to 11 a.m.

All You Can Eat! Sausage egg casserole, vegetable egg casse-role, bacon, sausage gravy and biscuits, French toast casserole, hot cinnamon apples, coffee, or-ange juice, and milk. Santa will be visiting from the North Pole to hear Christmas wishes! Bring your cam-era for FREE pictures! Vendors will be set up to help with your Christ-mas shopping! Adults $10, seniors $8,

children (ages 6 to 12) $5, chil-dren five and under free. Carry outs are $8. For more information, call 301-872-5454.

Evening of DanceHouse of Dance (24620 Three Notch Rd., Hollywood)- 5 to 9 p.m.

Join us for an EVENING OF DANCE! The best of oldies, hand dancing, line-dancing, bopping, free styling & much more! $10 per person, music by “Mean Gene” Disco & DJ Mike Chase.

Dinner served. There will be door prizes. Color theme is black and gold. Hand dancing and Line danc-ing classes start at 4 p.m., $10 per person. Discount special, only $15 if you stay for the evening Dance Party. For more information, call Donna Jordan at 301-373-6330 or Delora Chase at 301-769-1761.

Monday, Dec. 14

Accokeek Irish Session -- Holi-day SessionNat’l Colonial Farm (3400 Bryan Point Rd., Accokeek)- 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Traditional Irish session focused on young and beginning musicians. This session will feature traditional


Vigil Mass: 4:30 pm SaturdaySunday: 8:00 amWeekday (M-F): 7:30 amConfessions: 3-4 pm Saturday

St. Cecilia Church47950 Mattapany Rd, PO Box 429

St. Mary’s City, MD 20686 301-862-4600

www.stceciliaparish.com

METHODIST CHURCH

CHURCH SERVICES DIRECTORYCATHOLIC

HUGHESVILLE BAPTIST CHURCHA member of the Southern Baptist Convention

8505 Leonardtown Road, Hughesville, MD 20637301-884-8645 or 301-274-3627

• Sunday School (all ages) 9:15 am• Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am• Sunday Evening Worship & Bible Study 6:00 pm• Wednesday Discipleship Classes 7:00 pm (Adults, youth & Children)

Senior Pastor Dr. J. Derek YeltonAssociate Pastor Kevin Cullins

BAPTIST CHURCH

Victory Baptist Church29855 Eldorado Farm rd

CharlottE hall, md 20659301-884-8503

Order Of gOOd news servicessun schOOl, all ages…...............10:00sun mOrning wOrship.............…11:00sun evening wOrship….................7:00wed evening prayer mtg.........…7:00

ProClaiming thE ChangElEss word in a Changing world.

Jesus savesvictOrybaptistchurchmd.Org

Hollywood United Methodist Church 24422 Mervell Dean Rd • Hollywood, MD 20636

Rev. Sheldon Reese, PastorSunday Worship 8:30 and 11:00 a.m.Sunday School for all ages 9:45 a.m.All of our services are traditional.

Child care is provided.Sunday Evening Youth Group

Christian Preschool and Kindergarten available

301-373-2500

We invite you to experience the change…the transformation with us. Just bring your heart and God will supply the rest.

Come grow with us in a place, “Where the Word Reaches the Heart!”

Everyone is Welcome!

Greetings from the Bible Temple Church family in Mechanicsville Maryland.

Here at Bible Temple, we believe that in this life it is important to have strong and

healthy relationships1. A relationship with Christ

2. A personal relationship with family and friends

Address: 29050 New Market Village Road, Mechanicsville, MD 20659

Website: www.bibletemplechurch.orgPhone number: 301-374-9110

Leadership: Pastor Joseph and First Lady Marilyn Young

Sunday School for all ages: 9:00AMSunday Morning Worship: 9:45AM

Bible Study: Wednesdays at 7:30PM

Through these relationships, we develop the characteristics of love, understanding and forgiveness; the true heart of Christ.

“ Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).

Church ScheduleSunday Morning Worship 10 a.m.

Tuesday Bible Study 7 p.m.Friday Men Perfecting Men 7 p.m

21800 N. Shangri-La, Dr. #8PO Box 1260Lexington Park, MD 20653301-866-5772Pastor James L. Bell, Sr.

CATHOLIC CHURCH

NON-DENOMINATIONAL CHURCH

St. George Church: Saturday, 5:00 p.m. • Sunday, 8:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m.

St. Francis Xavier Chapel: Saturday, 7:00 p.m. (Memorial Day-Labor Day)

Weekday Mass Schedule: Tue, Wed, Thur, Fri, 1st Sat: 9:00 a.m.

Confessions: Saturdays: 4:00 - 4:30 p.m. or by appointment

St. GeorGe roman CatholiC ChurCh

19199 St. George Church Road • Valley Lee, MD 20692301-994-0607 • www.saintgeorgeromancatholicchurch.org

Teaching The Bible Without Compromise

We Are Located On The Corner Of Route 5 & 23839245 Chaptico Rd., Mechanicsville, Md.

301-884-3504 • Email: [email protected]/faith

Grace Chapel MinistryMember of the Grace Fellowship Brethren Churches

Sunday Worship • 8 A.M.Sunday School • 9:15 A.M.Blended Worship • 10:30 A.M.

Wednesday Bible Study • 7 P.M.Tuesday Youth Group • 7 P.M.

American Heritage Girls 1st & 3rd Thursday • 7 P.M.

Senior Pastor - Dr. Carl SnyderAssoc. Pastor - David RobertsYouth Pastor - Luke Roberts

You are invited to worship with us.

PENTECOSTAL CHURCH

Christmas Carols from a variety of sources -- not solely Irish. For more information, see our Face-book page: www.facebook.com/AccokeekIrish

Tuesday, Dec. 15

Boy Scout Christmas TreesNext to Baldus Real Estate (115 Charles St., La Plata)- 4 to 8 p.m.

Are you ready for the Holidays? Looking for that perfect Christmas Tree? You won’t have to go far. Boy Scout Troop 1814 is selling trees. Saturdays and Sundays are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.. Thursday and Friday nights 4 to 8p.m. Start-ing Monday, Dec. 14 open every weeknight 4 to 8 p.m. For informa-tion, call 443-277-0197.

Wednesday, Dec. 16

Pizza Night3330 Chesapeake Beach Rd. E on Rt. 260, Chesapeake Beach- 5 to 8 p.m.

The Sons of the American Legion Stallings Williams Post 206 will host their Wednesday Pizza night in the Lower Level Dining Room at the Chesapeake Beach. Cost is $8 plus $1 per extra topping. For infor-mation, call 301-855-6644.

Thursday, Dec. 17

Sea SquirtsCalvert Marine Museum, Solo-mons- 10 to 10:45 a.m.

See a naturalist from the De-partment of Natural Resources presenting Scales and Tales, a 45-minute presentation highlight-ing several animals. For children ages 18 months to 3 years old. Free program sponsored by PNC Grow Up Great! Admission is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors, military with valid I.D. and AAA members, and $4for children ages 5 to 12; chil-dren under 5 and museum mem-bers are always admitted free. For more information about the mu-seum, upcoming events, or mem-bership, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com or call 410-326-2042.

Friday, Dec. 18

NAACP Annual Meeting and Hol-iday SocialCountry Inn and Suites (44941 Worth Ln., California)- 6 to 10 p.m.

Come one, come all – open to the public.

Holiday Open MicChrist Episcopal Church Parish Hall (37497 Zack Fowler Rd., Chap-tico)- doors open 7 p.m.

Performers are requested to fo-cus on Holiday-themed music, and to contact John Garner ahead of time to sign up and let him know what music they’ll be performing (to avoid everyone singing Silent Night.) The admission fee for this event is only $7, and performers are admitted free. Light refreshments will be provided (donations are sug-

gested.) For additional information, or to sign up to perform, please contact John Garner at [email protected] or call John at 301-904-4987. Visit www.smtmd.org for directions and more information.

Saturday, Dec. 19

Chesapeake Community Chorus ConcertMt. Hope United Methodist Church (3 Dalrymple Rd., Sunderland)- 4 p.m.

A free-will offering will be col-lected to raise funds for Calvert Hospice. The public is invited to attend.

Open BarnGreenwell State Park (25450 Rose-dale Manor Ln., Hollywood)- 9 a.m. to noon

Join the Greenwell Foundation for some holiday fun and take photos (and selfies!) with our horses! Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies. Donations appreciated. For more information, visit greenwellfoundation.org.

Sunday, Dec. 20

Chesapeake Community Chorus CarolingVarious Locations, 2:30 to 6:30 p.m.

The Chesapeake Community Chorus will be caroling at the fol-lowing locations: Sneades Ace Hardware in Owings, 2:30 p.m.; at Roland’s Grocery Store in Chesa-peake Beach, 3:30 p.m.; at the

Prince Frederick Walmart Store at 5:30 p.m.; at the Calvert County Nursing Center in Prince Frederick at 6 p.m.; and at the Calvert Memo-rial Hospital in Prince Frederick at 6:30 p.m.

Adult Choir of Hughesville Bap-tist Church ConcertHughesville Baptist Church (8505 Old Leonardtown Rd., Hughes-ville)- 10:30 a.m.

The Adult Choir of Hughesville Baptist Church will be presenting “We’re Glad You Came.” This is a musical celebration of the Savior’s Birth. For more info on this event or our Church, please go to our web site: www.hughesvillebaptist.com also like us on Facebook. Office phone numbers are 301-884-8645 or 301-274-3672.

Monday, Dec. 21

Chesapeake Critter ProgramCalvert Marine Museum, Solo-mons- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Learn about the amazing animals in our aquarium. Free with museum admission. Check the daily events schedule at the admissions desk. Admission is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors, military with valid I.D. and AAA members, and $4 for chil-dren ages 5 to 12; children under 5 and museum members are always admitted free. For more informa-tion about the museum, upcoming events, or membership, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemu-seum.com or call 410-326-2042.


By Crista DockrayStaff Writer

Standing on the edge of a bridge one Christmas Eve Night, George Bailey contemplates ending his life. To see how George ended up in this unfortu-nate situation, two angels follow his story from the edge of the bridge back to the time when he was a young boy dreaming of traveling the world and at-tending college.

Presented by the Newtowne Play-ers and directed by Beth Sanford, this radio play takes the classic 1946 film, “It’s a Wonderful Life” and gives it a new spin.

A small cast of 10 people voice around

30 characters while making sound ef-fects and small costume changes, all on a realistic 1940s radio studio set.

In between the broadcast are some hilarious ads about toothpaste, hair tonic and more, sung along to the tunes of your favorite Christmas carols.

The play stars Greg Rumpf as George Bailey, Rachael Culver as Mary, and Lewis Beckley as Old Man Collins.

Watch and listen as George Bailey re-alizes that despite all of his hardships, he does in fact have a wonderful life.

“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Ra-dio Play” runs from Dec. 4 to Dec. 20. at the Three Notch Theatre located at 21744 Three Notch Rd. in Lexington Park. Coming up next on Feb. 12 to Feb. 28 is their show “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” This show does contain mature content and is not recommended for children. For more information or to reserve tickets, visit their website at www.newtowne-players.com or call the box office at 301-737-5447.

[email protected]

Entertainment

Going OnIn Entertainment

The Calvert 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] submit calendar listings by noon on

the Tuesday prior to our Thursday publication.

Thursday, Dec. 10

Mike Damron Solo Acous-tic LiveTwist Wine and Spirits/The Lime Lounge (22608 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park)- 7 to 11 p.m.

Swamp CandyRuddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd., Dowell)- 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 11

Mike Starkey BandRuddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd., Dowell)- 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12

Iz’em Live Hot Licks Guitar Shop (3250 Old Washington Rd., Waldorf)- 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Yoga at the AlehouseRuddy Duck (16800 Piney Point Rd., Piney Point)- 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 13

Hand Dance and Line Dance PartyHouse of Dance (24620 Three Notch Rd., Holly-wood)- 5 p.m.

CSM Ward Virts Concert Series: Brian GanzCollege of Southern Mary-

land Prince Frederick Cam-pus (115 J.W. Williams Rd., Prince Frederick)- 3 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 14

St. Maries Musica “Read-ings and Carols”St. Mary’s Ryken High School (22600 Camp Cal-vert Rd. Leonardtown)- 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 15

Burger and Pint NightRuddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd., Dowell)- 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 16

Open Mic NightRuddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd., Dowell)- 6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 17

All Original Songwriter’s NightTwist Wine and Spirits/The Lime Lounge (22608 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park)- 7 to 11 p.m.

Mercy CreekRuddy Duck (13200 Dowell Rd., Dowell)- 7:30 p.m.

By Skylar BroomeContributing Writer

The Great Mills High School auditori-um came alive with the spirit of dance on Saturday, Dec. 5. Ballet Caliente’s Winter Performance of “A Caliente Christmas” took place at 3 p.m. and showcased the talents of their ballet 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and Stu-dio Company dancers. The performance was split into two jubilant acts, the first being a collection of favorite dances from “The Nutcracker” and the second act made up of original choreography and more contemporary songs. The per-formance ended with a dazzling hip-hop

performance with a medley of remixes of everyone’s favorite Christmas Carols. “We love it because it allows us to express ourselves,” says the Studio Company dancers backstage after the performance. “It lets us use our talents to spread Christ-mas joy and cheer and help people get in spirit for the holidays.” For more informa-tion about upcoming events or to enroll in classes, visit www.balletcaliente.com.

[email protected]

“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play”

Photos by Tia LePore

“A Caliente Christmas”

Photos by Skylar Broome

The second act consisted of more modern dances to contemporary songs we all know and love. Here, dancers pose in ‘Ocho Kandelikas.’

The Nutcracker (Ivana Rematt) and Clara (Julia Dougherty) pose with the other Studio Company dancers in ‘Snow.’

Thursday, December 10, 2015 27The County Times Games

Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions

CLUES ACROSS 1. Red wine 7. Best nurse-patient aid 10. Footwear closure 12. Chinese dynasty 1122-221 BC 13. Persuade to one’s side 14. Advocate 15. Mandela’s party 16. A woolen cap of Scottish origin 17. About aviation 18. Shallowest of the Greats 19. Sheathe 20. Frightened 23. Brews 24. Relates 27. Atomic #52 28. Up the ante 33. The “Kings’s” initials 34. Lepton 36. Cornmeal mush (British) 38. One who analyzes syntactically 39. Algonquian tribe 40. Systems, doctrines, theories

41. Herb __, San Francisco columnist 42. Informed about the latest trends 45. Seven 46. Morocco’s capital 47. What a doctor practices 49. Beaks 50. In a way, extends 51. A number or amount not specified 52. Gambling CLUES DOWN 1. Composition for orchestra and soloists 2. Bulgarian monetary unit 3. Settled upon 4. Common frog genus 5. Electronic counter- countermeasures 6. Golf ball supporter 7. Divided into 3 8. Crazy (Spanish) 9. Billiards stick 10. More deficient 11. Solomon Islands capital

12. Larval crabs 14. Malta capital 18. Clairvoyance 19. Tomato condiment 21. Alleviation 22. French seaport 25. New Testament 26. Shortened (abbr.) 29. Employee (abbr.) 30. Opposite of leaving 31. Lip locking 32. Foes 35. Many not ands 36. Covered with healing scrapes 37. Regions 41. Abel’s brother (Bible) 42. Greek Queen of the gods 43. Esau’s descendants (Bible) 44. Canarium ovatum 46. Ribonucleic acid 47. Gas usage measurement 48. An oppositional argument

Games


CLASSIFIED AdsPublication Days Important Information

Email your ad to: [email protected] or Call: 301-373-4125 or Fax: 301-373-4128. Liner Ads (No

artwork or special type) Charged by the line with the 4 line minimum. Display Ads (Ads with artwork, logos, or special type) Charged by the inch with the two inch mini-mum. All private party ads must be paid before ad is run.

The St. Mary’s County Times will not be held responsible for any ads omitted for any reason. The St. Mary’s County Times reserves the right to edit or reject any classified ad not meeting the standards of The St. Mary’s County Times. 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.

The County Times is published each Thursday. Deadlines are Monday at noon

Office hours are: Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Placing An Ad

Directions: Rt 235 (Three Notch Road) Turn At Panera Onto Old Rolling Road, Make Left On Laurel Glen Road, We Are On The Left

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Nathaniel Seager, Revolutionary War Soldier

St. Mary’s Department of AgingPrograms and Activities

Loffler Senior Activity Center 301-737-5670, ext. 1658Garvey Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4200, ext. 1050

Northern Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4002, ext. 13101

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

Holiday Basket Weaving Work-shop for Beginners and Beyond

Make a handy Christmas basket at the Garvey Senior Activity Cen-ter on Monday, Dec. 14, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The completed bas-ket measures about four inches in diameter and features red or green reed. The class is taught by Three Dimensional Fiber Artist Pam King. The cost for the kit, which includes all materials and tools, is $15. Payment is due at the time of registration. Call 301-475-4200, ext. 1050, for more information.

AARP Smart Driving CourseThe Northern Senior Activity

Center will host the AARP Smart Driving Course on Tuesday, Dec. 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a

lunch break at 11:30 a.m. This course includes proven safety strategies that older drivers can use to compensate for changes as they age and allow them to drive more safely and confidently for as long as possible. The fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members with cash or check made payable to AARP. Payment is required to sign up for the class. Lunch is a voluntary do-nation from seniors 60 and older; $6 for others. Call 301-475-4002, opt. 1, ext. 3101 to reserve a lunch.

Beginner Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention ClassesStart in January

Loffler Senior Activity Center will hold Beginner Tai Chi for Arthritis

and Fall Prevention classes at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the month of January. New students will be given the priority in terms of instructor attention, but returning students are always wel-come. While there is no monetary cost for this class, commitment to regular attendance and practice at home is required for students. To sign up for this class or for more information call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658.

Beginners Piano/KeyboardComing Soon

Dr. Robert L. Jefferson, the author of the “How to Play Gos-pel” book series and a lead-ing expert on teaching gospel music (Check out his website

at Jeffersonprsents.com) will again offer beginner piano/keyboard classes at the Loffler Senior Activity Center starting Tuesday Jan. 26 and continu-ing through Mar. 8 (no class on Feb. 23). The cost is $100 for six sessions and includes instruc-tion, texts and corresponding CD. Additionally, you will need to invest in an inexpensive key-board ($50 to $100+ available at local stores and online). Pay-ment for the lessons can be made directly to Dr. Jefferson on the first day of class. Pre-registration is required by Jan. 20. For questions, or to sign up, call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658.

By Linda RenoContributing Writer

October 6, 1832: Nathaniel Seager, a resident of Washington, D.C., aged 73 years states he entered the service of the U.S. under the following officers and served as herein stated:

--In 1778 he received a commission as En-sign and attached to Capt. Dent’s Company in the regiment commanded by General Small-wood and then immediately detached on recruiting service in Charles and St. Mary’s counties; joined his regiment at Annapolis; transferred to Capt. Millard’s company in Col. Thomas’ regiment; and then reassigned, upon receiving a Lieutenant’s commission to Col. Neale’s regiment and marched to the north and was appointed to General Morris’

regiment stationed near Philadelphia. He was then referred to the 4th Regiment

of the Continental Army under the command of General (Nathaniel) Greene from whom he received a Captain’s commission and served in that grade until the close of the war. He served a total of 4 years and 9 months.

--While under General Greene in South Carolina, was on detachment under General Marion. (Francis Marion “The Swamp Fox). He was in several skirmishes and at the attack of Georgetown, South Carolina.

Answers to interrogatories:I was born in St. Mary’s County, Maryland

October 8, 1759. After the war I lived some years in Charles

County, but for the last 34 years I have lived where the City of Washington now stands. (He was on the 1790 census of St. Mary’s

County).November 14, 1832: Richard. Sothoron

Briscoe states he has known Nathaniel Sea-ger for 30 years; that Seager lived on the Patuxent, his native place; and that he was considered an honest, high minded man, and of strict veracity.

November 14, 1832: Amendment to the declaration of Nathaniel Seager as some of the facts escaped his memory when the for-mal declaration was made.

--While under the command of General Morris near Philadelphia, he was taken sick, in consequence of which he obtained a fur-lough. He proceeded to Alexandria, now in the District of Columbia where he remained a short time when a schooner privateer under the command of Captain Johns being fitted out for a cruise and mounting 18 guns.. he

went on board and got as far as the Capes of Virginia when they were taken by an English man of war, although she had false ports and but one round of ammunition...the cowardice of the Captain was the cause of the capture of the schooner.

--We were taken to New York and confined on board the New Jersey prison ship and suf-fered every hardship during 21 days. We saw light but once a day--only by being allowed to be upon deck at most but two hours. Our food was thrown down to us.

--Six of us were taken out of the prison ship and conveyed to Quebec. We escaped and travelled through the wilderness suffering much hardship from fatigue and hunger, hav-ing at one time to kill and eat a dog thereby preserving our lives until we reached General Morris’ headquarters.

PEOPLE STILL LOOK TO THE CLASSIFIEDS FIRST!

Whatever your needs, we’ll get you in the Classified section! Just call our office and ask for an advertising representative to get started!

43251 RESCUE LANE • HOLLYWOOD, MD • Office: 301-373-4125 • Fax: 301-373-4128 • www.CountyTimes.net

SELLING A CAR? LOOKING FOR A BABYSITTER? RENTING OUT AN APARTMENT?


WanderingsAimless Mind

Mad Money of an

By Shelby OppermanContributing Writer

15 days from today!!! Whaaaat? Why does Christmas sneak up on me every year? I feel like I fell asleep and two weeks have gone by. Does anyone else feel that way? There are people I know that have already bought all their Christmas presents and wrapped them. Something about that is just not right, not normal. Oops, I hope you are not one of them that I have just offended. I truly admire your preparedness. But I would lose my membership in procras-tinators anonymous if I started early and finished early. Why ruin tradition?

I have bought a few things so far. On Black Friday, I told my husband I was going to go Black Friday shopping for the first time ever. He looked a little sur-prised because I am one of the people who doesn’t do well in crowds. Then I told him I was going to go Black Friday shopping at Pam’s Hallmark in Char-lotte Hall. So, he left to go cut wood on our friend’s farm, I guess in the “Black Friday forest”, and I got ready to set off to conquer the Black Friday crowds in Charlotte Hall. As I was leaving, I spied with my discerning eye some cash money sitting on the coffee table in front of where I normally sit. I thought how sweet my husband was to leave me money, and when I counted it I found that it was $63. WooHoo!!! I only had about $40 for the presents I was going to get. But I had all my Hallmark rewards and coupons from their flyer. I was out to save and get a few extra things too.

First, I must say I love Hallmark, from the smell of it to all the neat things you can buy. When you leave the store you smell spicy and feel renewed. And I love coupons and two for ones. I was able to take my time that day, and en-joyed looking at every item in the store. It ended up that I was able to get pres-ents for four family members on my list, and with the free items that were Black Friday specials, I was able to get a pair of those new socks they have that are called the softest socks in the world, a free bag of popcorn, and one other thing I can’t quite remember. Quite a haul.

And I must say that those socks are the softest in the world – I am wearing them right now, and they even go over my huge right calf. I love them and want more : )

When I got home, my husband was just pulling in and looking a bit flus-tered. I asked what was wrong, and he said he had cut wood all day, come back home, and went to look for some money in his pocket. He couldn’t find the money, looked all over the house, in all his pockets, and then realized he would have to go back down to the farm in Avenue to look for the money he lost. He had just come back from do-ing that. “Uh oh”, I said. “Was it about $63.00?”, said very softly by me. “Yes”, he said, “you found it!?” “No, actually I spent it.” “What???” “Well, I thought you left that for me to go shopping with. I thought, how sweet that was of you to leave the money when I didn’t even ask for any.” That was met with a moment or two of silence, then he said that it was fine. I told him thank you and I could probably pay him back in the next year or two, and assured him that the pres-ents I bought for him were bought with my own money.

I most likely will not get that lucky to find more money laying around like that. And I imagine he will be more vigilant. Though I doubt that. I will keep looking for money left in his pock-ets when I do the laundry. I have made quite a haul with that over the years. It is kind of an unofficial agreement that anything I find in the laundry room goes to the” laundry fund” otherwise known by the term we all grew up with: “Mad money”. That would definitely be the correct term for it, because my husband is sure mad when he finds out that I have found it.

To each new day’s adventure, Shelby

Please send your comments or ideas to: [email protected] find me on facebook: Shelby Oppermann

All St. Mary’s County Library Branches Closed for Staff Day: De-cember 11

All three branches of the St. Mary’s County Library will be closed Friday, Dec. 11 for staff training. All branches will be open regular business hours on Saturday, Dec. 12. Library Holiday Hours

All three branches of the St. Mary’s County Library will be closed Thurs-day, Dec. 24 through Sunday, Dec. 27 for Christmas. All branches will be closing at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 31 and be closed Friday, Jan. 1.

Snowtastic!All three branches will hold Snowtas-

tic! Programs for all ages. Lexington Park will hold Snowtastic! On Tuesday, Dec. 15 at 10 a.m., Charlotte Hall Library will hold Snowtastic! on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 10:30 a.m., and Leonardtown will hold Snowtastic! On Tuesday, Dec. 22 at 10 a.m. Celebrate the season with a flurry of stories, wintry games and frosty crafts. Happy NOON Year’s Eve Party

Children with early bedtimes are invited to enjoy all the fun of a new year’s party by counting down to a happy NOON year with stories, songs, and fun activities. All three branches will hold the NOON Year’s

Eve parties on Thursday, Dec. 31. Leon-ardtown and Lexington Park branches will begin at 11:15 a.m., and Charlotte Hall branch will begin at 11:30 a.m. No registration. Outfitting Outlander

Leonardtown branch will hold a special program: Outfitting Outlander: So much more than kilts, ye ken! on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. This talk will explore how Outlander’s costumes and props compare to eighteenth century artifacts recovered by archaeologists in Maryland, such as table glass, medi-cine containers, horse tack, architec-ture, weaponry, clothing and more! No

registration, free and open to the public. In partnership with Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum. Tree of Warmth and Toys for Tots

Donate new or gently used hats, mit-tens, gloves and scarves by Dec. 31 to any branch for our Tree of Warmth! The St. Mary’s County Library is donating all items to local charities for distribution.

All three branches of the St. Mary’s County Library are drop off locations for Toys for Tots. Bring your new toys by and simply leave them in the boxes marked ‘Toys for Tots’ by Dec. 16.

LIBRARY ITEMS

By Laura JoyceContributing Writer

My high school history class was taught by one of those great teachers who do far more than throw out dates and events into the crowd and expect to see those same things regurgitated on a test a few weeks later. My teacher—Mr. Wright—made the past come to life because of his passion for the subject. Because of that, I suppose it’s no surprise that I have such vivid recall of his class, and of one lesson, in particular, that he taught again and again, even though I took the class over 30 years ago.

We were studying World War II and Mr. Wright had covered the kind of content that makes you proud to be an American: the way ordinary citizens rushed to enlist after the attack on Pearl Harbor, knowing they might lose their lives as they defended the U.S.; the way America flooded the skies above Normandy and the waters below the Dover Cliffs in order to change the course of history. He taught us about how we lib-erated France and freed the concentration camp survivors throughout Europe, ending the brutality and horror of life at the hands of the Nazis. We learned about Rosie the Riveter, former housewives building air-planes and tanks; we learned about aver-age, everyday Americans who, together, stopped Germany’s rapid march of domi-nance and evil across Europe. In that class, we learned about a hundred points of light in that dark, dark time.

The larger story that Mr. Wright taught us, however, required that we look at all sides of that war. Humans learn by expe-rience, he said, whether in our own small lives or as a community or a country or a continent—or even as an entire world. In order to carry forward the lessons from World War II—or any war—we had to learn about more than just the side of the war that looked like sailors kissing nurses in Times Square on V-J Day, or jeeps roll-ing into Paris with soldiers throwing choc-olate bars to gleeful children, while their weeping parents looked on: free at last, free at last.

That meant understanding that the Nazis weren’t the only ones with cause for shame. It’s not as pretty a picture as the patriotic one in which America swept in and saved the world—and certainly that picture is im-portant, too—but it’s equally true.

For instance, America turned away Jew-ish refugees, returning them to Europe and, for almost all, a horrifying death in the gas chambers. America also forced Japanese citizens—people who loved their country every bit as much as America’s non-Asian citizens—into internment camps after Pearl Harbor. Those actions and others like them are a stain on America’s past, and part of the lesson Mr. Wright wanted to impart; he wanted to be sure that our generation, born well after World War II, would enter adult-hood carrying the memory of that shameful treatment of other human beings so that we would not allow our country to make the same mistakes of bigotry and hatred in the years ahead. Those memories and lessons, he believed, would help future generations avoid judging an entire group—cultural or religious or other—on the actions of a few, or, as in the case of the Holocaust, on noth-ing at all, beyond bigotry. If we could see how it all started, the glaring red flags and the more subtle signs that warn of oppres-sion and hatred, perhaps we could be sure that it never happened again.

When I heard Donald Trump say that we should ban all Muslims from coming to the U.S., I felt sick. Based on the actions of extremists, he argues, all Muslims should be suspect. (Using that logic, we will also have to ban all white males; they are, after all, the ones committing the vast majority of the mass shootings at malls and movie theaters, on college campuses, and at el-ementary schools).

We are so much more, so much better than this. We’re the country that takes in the poor, the huddled masses. We are the good guys, the country where freedom of religion and speech reign supreme.

For the first time in my life, hearing the hate spewed by Trump and others, I thought about wanting to live some place that more closely resembles the America I love, the homeland I look on with so much pride. But, fleeing ideological differences isn’t the American way, either: we stand up and speak up for our beliefs. For me, those beliefs are captured perfectly in the Consti-tution. And so, I’ll stand and fight: my first step might be to send a copy of the Consti-tution to Trump. It’s pretty clear to me that he’s never read it before.

I love hearing from you; feel free to email me at [email protected]

Déjà vu All Over Again?


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