December 8, 2011

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The Calvert Gazette

Thursday, December 8, 2011

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Jan Gibson, owner of Infinite Errands says as long as it is legal, ethical and moral her concierge service is available to help.

Crowds of people lined the North Beach Boardwalk for the annual Christmas Parade on Saturday. Later, students of dance and music provided an evening performance at Town hall after the parade.

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The crowd at Southern Middle School for the fourth annual Staff vs. Students basketball game was more tame than the two teams they came to watch. The action on the court kept some on the edge of their seats.

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Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

MHBR No. 103

COUNTY NEWS
By Corrin M. Howe Staff Writer Last year a Department of Natural Resources officer found a family who had no Christmas tree, no holiday decorations, no food and didnt know how they were going to pay their electric bill. According to Sgt. Mike Bomgardner these are the types of families for which Calvert Countys Annual Shop with A Cop program is designed. This year the program partnered with Calvert County schools, churches, food banks and previous families in the program to find approximately 70 atrisk youth. The countys Fraternal Order of Police and Optimist Clubs sponsor the event which pairs approximately 40 officers from the Sheriffs Department, Maryland State Troopers, DNR Police and Prince Georges County officers with youth for a shopping spree at Wal-Mart. The response has been tremendous as many different aspects of the community come together, said a representative from the Optimist Club.

The Calvert Gazette

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Shopping For A Positive Experience With Law Enforcement

Financial sponsors such as Stoneys, Outback Steakhouse, SMECO, FOP, American Legion and Wal-mart make Shop with a Cop possible. Christmas is even more of a challenge. We want to make life-long connections or experiences which are positive with law enforcement, said Bomgardner. The kids are picked up from their homes and taken to Outback where they will receive a morning snack and have their pictures taken. Then they ride in marked police cars with flashing lights and wailing sirens to Prince Frederick Wal-Mart. At the store, each child is given a gift card. In the past it has been for $100. This year it might be raised to $150. The youth can purchase gifts for themselves and family members. Its amazing, said Bomgardner. We have to make some kids buy something for themselves; they are so generous to their family. Thats the rule; they have to get something for themselves. After shopping, they will be driven down to St. Leonards Fire House, where they will receive breakfast and help wrapping their gifts. Then the officers will take

them back home. In the past, the group went back to Outback for breakfast, but the group has outgrown their venue. The community support has been such

Photo By Sean Rice

that this year Shop with a Cop included taking middle school students to Wal-Mart for back-to-school shopping. The organizers hope that they will be able to continue the before school shopping in the future.

Commissioners Bid to Lower Taxes Disregarded

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer An idea of County Commissioner Evan K. Slaughenhoupt, Jr. to look at county spending and how to put money back in the pockets of taxpayers fell on deaf ears during last weeks commissioner meeting. While making a motion to approve the one-time incentive pay for county employees, Slaughenhoupt added a lengthy addendum to his motion to look at reducing county spending. Initially, it seemed we had an either/or decision. Either we provide relief to county employees, or to the taxpayers. But, that is not who we are. We are still Americans. We can do both; provide this incentive and seek to lower county tax rates, said Slaughenhoupt in his motion during the Nov. 29 Board of County Commissioners meeting. His motion involved identifying redundant systems, and determining whether they are truly needed. We will find efficiencies and financial savings by consolidating duplicated services, he said. Essentially, Slaughenhoupt called for an overhaul of the way the county does business and builds the budget. I am not sure this can be completed during the ongoing FY13 budget build, but can be completed for the following fiscal year build, he said in his motion. During a short discussion, Commissioner Jerry Clark was one of the most vocal in arguing that the county has made cuts, but Calvert, unlike other counties, has never made cuts in education funding and public safety. The county has, thus far, been careful about prioritizing the cuts to have the least impact on the taxpayers, he said. To say we havent done that is just not correct, Clark said. The rest of the county commissioners saw Slaughenhoupts suggestion as two separate motions in one statement, and it failed to receive a second from any member. Slaughenhoupt said in a later interview with the Calvert Gazette that he will be bringing the matter back to the commissioners, and wants to find a way to provide relief to taxpayers who are feeling the pinch of the economy. He said he intends to push for a reduction of expenditures and county services in order to give the taxpayers more money in their pockets. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Republicans Warn of State Tax Hikes

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer Sales tax money that went into the Transportation Trust Fund last year is now being funneled instead into the state general fund. To help rebuild the Transportation Trust Fund, there are murmurs among state officials of raising the gas tax and other transportation taxes, which are supposed to go directly into the transportation trust fund. Unfortunately, just because the funds are slated to go into a dedicated fund doesnt mean that fund is what they get used for, a fact Delegate Mark Fisher (R-27B) discussed during a recent town hall meeting in North Beach. He said raising taxes to rebuild trust funds will do nothing unless there are also laws passed to put lock boxes on the trust funds, preventing the monies from being used for other purposes, such as helping to balance the state budget. House Minority Leader Anthony J. ODonnell (R-29C) echoed Fishers concerns, saying raising the taxes to replenish the trust funds will only serve to give the state more money unless preventative measures are taken to make sure the trust fund money is used for its intended purposes. Getting such legislation passed, though, would be difficult because of the amount of people who would have to vote to close those loopholes. The government gets creative when they spend more than they make, ODonnell said. Potential tax increases include motor fuel taxes, increased registration fees and titling taxes, among other things. ODonnell said the taxes punish the rural areas of Maryland, like Calvert and St. Marys counties, by making it more expensive to own cars and drive from location to location, a necessity in rural Maryland. This type of proposition, which would have the most negative impact on less urban areas of the state, has become common for Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley, in ODonnells opinion. The governor is engaged in a war with rural Maryland, ODonnell said. He said in addition to being difficult for rural areas, the transportation taxes would be difficult for the state as a whole to swallow. In my opinion, the government cant withstand the gas tax, ODonnell said. Raquel Guillory, communications director with Governor OMalleys office, said OMalley has no such grudge against rural Maryland, and the tax increases were a recommendation from the Blue Ribbon Commission on Maryland Transportation Funding a recommendation which may or may not be supported by the governor. We have not finalized any plans in regard to potential revenue enhancements, Guillory said. As for the gas tax increase having a disproportionate affect on people in rural areas, she said there are also people in urban areas that use a lot of gas commuting into the cities and sitting in traffic. She said before anything is done, they have to study the idea and its potential impact on all the residents in Maryland. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

COUNTY NEWS
County Government Structure Being Revised
By Sarah Miller Staff Writer Between the County Commissioners and the Planning Commission, the structure of county government is poised for some changes. Effective as of Dec. 5, Planning and Zoning Department officials have restructured the department, making it more streamlined and user friendly, according to Director of Planning and Zoning Chuck Johnston. He said they have been working on the changes for the past couple of months, after getting the suggestion during his interview. Johnston himself has only been working for Calvert County for eight weeks. Under Planning and Zoning, there are four sub groups Board of Appeals, Policy Division, Development Review Division and Inspections and Permits. As part of the revisions, the long range planning division was moved from the planning and plan review division to the Policy division. Other divisions were renamed to be more descriptive of their functions. Johnston said the changes are not set in stone, and the department will continue to streamline their processes. Also approved is a change in the number of election districts for the County Commissioners. While there are currently three election districts and two at large members, County Commissioner President Susan Shaw said the board has asked the state legislature to change that to five election districts and eliminate the at large position. She said she doesnt anticipate a problem finding candidates in each election district. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Debate Continues Over Ethics Code

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer The argument about giving the Calvert County Ethics Commissions subpoena power, among other issues, has still not been settled. Instead, the County Commissioner voted 3-2 to bring the issue into another public hearing. Commissioner President Susan Shaw and Commissioner Jerry Clark were vocal about their opposition to having another public hearing on the matter. It just feels like kicking the can down the road, Shaw said. She also expressed concern that the commissioners were trying to let the public do their jobs for them. Clark agreed with Shaw, saying he would have preferred a work session on the revisions to the ethics code before taking it into another public hearing. Major sticking points on the matter include giving the ethics commission the ability to issue subpoenas in order to obtain the information they need during their investigations. The ethics commission representatives said they had changed the wording so they could issue summons instead of subpoenas. The change begged the question of whether it had to go back to the beginning of the process with public hearing and comment periods on the document. There were also concerns about grandfathering employees who could potentially be hurt by new ethics policies due to family members being higher up on the chain of command. Those employees could either be trapped in their positions with no chance of job growth or even lose their jobs to avoid conflicts of interest. Shaw said she personally knows a person who couldnt be promoted due to a chain of command issue, and wants to make sure nobody is hurt by the new code. The date for the next public hearing has not yet been set. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Commissioner Meeting Notes

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) is preparing to build a new electricity utility substation and switching station, which received approval from the Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday. SMECO sought permission to modify the boundary of an agricultural preservation district and get permission to adjust its covenants. SMECO already owns the land that the new station will be going on, and will be replacing the land with area on an adjacent parcel of land that is not already protected. The project required 17,564 square feet for access and 15,163 for storm water requirements. The county commissioners voted 5-0 to allow the project to move forward. Also approved during Tuesdays meeting was a budget adjustment for fire and rescue facilities. Capital Projects Analyst Julie Paluda and Coordinator for the Division of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Medical Services James Richardson presented three additional projects to be done during the FY 2013 budget cycle. The projects, totaling $195,477, are an asphalt overlay and restriping of the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department parking lot, replacing the apparatus bay heating system at Solomons Island Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department and getting an emergency generator for St. Leonard VDF to properly power the entire building, the fire suppression system and the St. Leonard town water supply. Paluda said the money for the projects will come from savings on the roof replacement and installation of a second entrance for the St. Leonard Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department. While the board voted 5-0 to allow the additions, Commissioner Clark expressed concern over the amount left over from the pervious projects and asked that they try to refrain from over estimating projects too much. Richardson said the leftover was due to the economy, which allowed them to get the projects done at a lower rate. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

New Marine Museum Boat Nearing Completion

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Volunteer craftsmen have been busy building a new working boat to adorn the front of the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, and now that their work is coming to a close the new vessel is due for a new name. The new working boat, known as a bugeye type, is used historically to troll local waters for oysters and set to replace the old Marie Therese vessel which had recently become unsafe, museum staff said. She just rotted to the point where she couldnt be salvaged, said Richard Dodd, curator of marine history at the museum. Bugeye-type vessels were developed in the post-Civil War period, a double-ended work boat that would sail the waters of the Chesapeake Bay; many of its type were constructed in Solomons and the area became known for such industry, according to information from the museum. The new bugeye craft is not seaworthy, but will be used on land as an educational tool on the water-based industry of the area. The Calvert Marine Museum is offering the naming rights for the boat to the highest bidder; bids can be placed with the museum staff but must be reviewed and approved for their suitability for public viewing. For more information contact the museum at 410-326-2043. guyleonard@countytimes.net

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The Calvert Gazette

Thursday, December 8, 2011

State Report Shows Deep Mismanagement of Highway Contracts

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer An audit released late last week shows the State Highway Administration, along with certain contractors it employed to inspect taxpayer funded construction projects, deliberately mismanaged funds in the amount of $11.3 million, and steered those monies toward projects other than for what they were intended to conceal the overspending. By using funds for projects that they were not appropriated for, SHA and the contractors circumvented the Board of Public Works, which must give final approval for using money for any other state endeavor, the audit stated. Also, the cost of certain contracts could not adequately be measured because paperwork attached to each job was not outlined with specific goals, the report from the Office of Legislative Audits stated. This latest audit is the second in recent weeks to criticize major state agencies and their use of tax payer dollars; a previous audit of the Maryland Department of the Environment showed that there was not enough oversight on the awarding of $1.1 million in grant money from the Bay Restoration Fund to contractors to install septic systems. Nearly all of that money was spread between two contractors ; the report called the expenditures questionable. It also chided MDE for telling officials it had fully implemented a permit and inspection database to keep track of septic system usage, but the audits finding showed it had not. The contract price to install the electronic database was $6.4 million but MDE so far has spent $7.8 million. House Minority Leader Anthony J. ODonnell (R-Dist.29C) said that both audits fly in the face of some elected officials push for an increase in both the flush tax and the gasoline tax. ODonnell has been a frequent critic of increasing the gasoline tax, especially because the state has raided the transportation fund in recent years to pay for general fund expenses. The mismanagement of funds by both agencies, which would gain from increases in either tax, showed why the increases should be denied, ODonnell said. Its crazy, ODonnell said. Theyre talking about [mismanaging] millions of dollars and they want more. Theyre wasting money on both of these programs and they both affect rural areas dramatically. Many rural areas of the state, such as St. Marys and Calvert counties, have a disproportionately high amount of homes on septic systems, meaning they pay a substantial portion of the flush tax. ODonnell has argued that because rural areas have less public transportation options, a gas tax hike would also disproportionately hurt residents there as well. This latest examination of SHAs business and contracting practices follows a summer audit that showed many of the same problems in questionable contracts. That audit was triggered by tips received on the waste, fraud and abuse hotline. In the second audit, SHAs responses all concurred with the auditors recommendations to shore up its procurement practices, including using funds only for their original intentions and to seek approval from the Board of Public Works before shifting those funds. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Audit Chides MDE for Lax Oversight of Flush Tax Money

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer A recent state report has found that the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) did not have proper oversight over taxpayer funded grant money doled out for various septic system contracts, nor did it adopt proper regulations over programs that were part of the Bay Restoration Fund, which is supposed to fund reduction of pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorous in the Chesapeake Bay. The discrepancies found in the awards of grant monies for septic systems projects were referred to the Office of the Attorney Generals criminal division, the report stated. One example found in the report by the Office of Legislative Audits showed that MDE awarded $1.1 million for 51 projects associated with the Septic System Program, paid for by the taxpayer funded Bay Restoration Fund, to two installation contractors in the same area. Documentation submitted by the two contractors was sometimes incomplete and also did not always meet with MDE policies, the audit stated. Comprehensive reviews of Septic System Program grant applications were not performed and resulted in the approval of questionable awards the report stated. The report went on to state, that as a result, there was a lack of assurance that septic system bids submitted were independent and fair. Another finding of the report showed that a former employee at MDE received nearly $225,000 through eight consulting contracts over an extended period of time; this appeared to violate state laws, including procurement and ethics laws. The report showed that in February 2007, the employee established their own management consulting business and got a year-long contract from MDE. That employee retired from their state position May 31, 2007, the report stated, with other contracts following. Our review disclosed that the contract qualifications and bid specifications for the initial procurement were specifically tailored to the former employees experience, skills and job functions, the report stated. This is a violation of state procurement law, which requires that specifications be written to permit maximum practicable competition and not be written in such a manner as to favor a single vendor over other vendors. The audit noted several other flaws in MDEs administration of certain functions, including properly standing up a records keeping system so that it was not fully utilized. This system, known as the Enterprise Environmental Management System, which was designed to replace several disparate permit and compliance databases, was said by MDE to be fully functional when in fact it was not. MDE also exceeded costs on the new system, the report stated, spending $7.8 million so far, instead of the original $6.4 million in the original contract, the report stated. Also the report found that MDE did not ensure that some hazardous materials facilities met state security standards, nor was there proper oversight of monitoring properties affected by lead paint. MDE officials responded to the audit by agreeing with some of the deficiencies while denying that other findings were true. MDE officials stated they have already taken steps to ensure that septic grants to local jurisdictions would meet oversight requirements and they would cooperate with an investigation into any questionable grant awards, but it did not agree with the audits assessment of the new environmental database. The current MDE management cannot change the historical fact that in 2004, when this project was initially proposed, it was overpromised and underfunded, the response to the audit stated.

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Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

Pull Tab Machines Sticky Topic for the Beaches

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer Tax increases may be in the future; the unemployment rate is higher than people have been led to believe; and the state will continue raiding money from dedicated funds these are a few points Delegate Mark Fisher (R-27B) warned of during a town hall meeting in North Beach last week. But one issue that could not be ignored, especially in the face of a crowd of citizens in yellow shirts bearing the motto Save Our Jobs was whether or not Fisher would support eliminating the sunset clause that will remove pull tab machines from Calvert County as of July 1, 2012, and the jobs that depend on them. Fisher said he would support fighting to keep the machines legal, as long as local communities like Chesapeake Beach get a fair portion of the proceeds. Fisher, in the first of three town hall meetings in Northern Calvert County in December, updated North Beach citizens on his forecast for 2012 legislative session starting in Annapolis next month. There are few people who are going to tell you what Im going to tell you, Fisher said. He said while Marylands unemployment rate is officially upwards of 7 percent, the people only working part time but seeking additional or alternative employment and people who have gotten discouraged to the point of not even looking for work are not counted. With those factors included he said the true unemployment rate in Maryland is closer to 13 percent. Maggie Chaney, who works for Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa, said she felt Fisher definitely listened to the people in the room and their concern, adding that for many people, their livelihoods depend on the pull tab machines and the revenue they bring. The 430th session of the Maryland General Assembly begins Jan. 11, 2012. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Christmas on The Beach

orth N

COUNTY NEWS

Local residents came out to make their concerns known keeping pull tab machines in the area and saving jobs.

Crowds of people lined the North Beach Boardwalk for the annual Christmas Parade on Saturday. Students of Abigail Francisco School of Classical Ballet, pictured below, joined singers from Calvert High School and Windy Hill Elementary for an evening performance at Town hall after the parade. The Santa Claus that rode on the Chesapeake Water Park float sported a tank top.

Photos by Guy Leonard

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Community
5th Annual Firewood for Families

The Calvert Gazette

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Flash Mob Promotes Upcoming Holly Jolly Shows

By Carrie Munn Staff Writer The crowd dining at the Ruddy Duck in Solomons last Saturday was pleasantly surprised when a flash mob broke out in dance in the middle of the restaurant. Joined by many costumed characters. The covert performance was to promote the sixth annual performance of Holly Jolly Musical. The holiday-themed show which features dancing, singing and humor was created and written by Grace Myles, owner of Gracies Guy and Gals Dance Studio in Hollywood, with her son Justin Myles serving as director and artistic advisor. Holly Jolly Musical is a fundraiser for the dance troupe with parents making props, stage decorations, costumes and some even participating as cute costumed characters. It is a very professional show with lots of scenery changes and fun choreography, Myles said. The kids in the troupe and their parents have been traveling all over St. Marys and Calvert counties to drum up, or rather dance up, interest in the production. Myles said this is her studios 24th year in business. Offering recreational opportunities and professional training for dancers, the show troupes from Gracies have become a fixture at community events.

Armed with trucks, wood splitters and cutters, axes and willing hands and spirit, more than 110 Summit Mens group members from Chesapeake Church in Huntingtown cut, loaded and delivered free firewood to 28 less fortunate families on Saturday. The men delivered between a half cord to three cords of firewood at each stop. For many, the firewood will be their only source of heat during the winter months, a press release states. This is the fifth consecutive year that Chesapeake Church has spearheaded the Firewood for Families endeavor. This year brought the largest number of volunteers and more than doubled the amount of deliveries, 90 percent of the deliveries were Calvert County residents. The need is out there and it is strong, said Chet Taylor, Chesapeake Churchs Summit Mens Leader. The men at the church answered the call to serve. I hear the stories of how the men who delivered the wood are just as touched as the firewood recipients when they return to the church. It is rather humbling. The majority of the families who received the firewood utilize the churchs Chesapeake Cares Food Pantry and others came from referrals. The food pantry serves more than 450 families every week. Im very thankful for the wood delivery, a Firewood for Families recipient said. I cannot thank the church (Chesapeake) enough as I use the food pantry, the twice a year oil changes and now the wood delivery. For the fifth straight year, Summit Mens Member Steve Krouse manned the splitter and cutter to help those who need help to stay warm this winter. I do this to serve the Lord, to help those in need, he said in a press release. This is my way of giving back to those less fortunate. As the men, women and even young children cut, split and loaded trucks for delivery, the Chesapeake Cares Serving Seniors team was preparing food for delivery around Calvert County. Hunger does not take the weekends off and the Serving Seniors provide hot meals on weekends. And later that same Saturday at Chesapeake Church, a 24-hour prayer event was held with the last hour culminating in an Unhindered praise worship led by the churchs praise band Scattered Leaves. Over 350 people were in attendance. Bottom line is those who attend Chesapeake Church have a servants heart, Taylor said. They are called and answer every time. Its contagious and the number of volunteering continues to grow. For more information on volunteer opportunities or learn about Chesapeake Church visit chesapeakechurch.org or call 410-257-0700. Chesapeake Church Notes: Christmas Eve Services entitled What The Shepherds Saw will be held at 2:30, 4, 5:30 and 7 p.m. Also the church is launching a Saturday service beginning Jan. 28, 2012, at 5 p.m.

The musical features a cast of wacky characters like Elfis, the Elvis of Elves, Jingles the comical horse, Santa Mouse and the Grinch and promises to be an entertaining holiday show combining song, dance, acting and performance to bring cheer to audiences for the holidays. The show goes on Saturday, Dec 10 at the Mary Harrison Center in Owings at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Information on obtaining tickets can be found by emailing HollyJollyShow@aol.com or by calling (301) 475-5265. To see a preview of the high-energy show or find out about the opportunities to hone dance skills at Gracies studio, visit www.graciesguysandgalsdancestudio.com. carriemunn@countytimes.net

Mini Grant Funding Opportunities

The Southern Maryland Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Board has announced that applications for the Mini Grant Program are available. Projects selected for funding will assist RC&D in implementing its Annual Plan and Area Plan which are both focused on community development, land conservation, land management and water management in Charles, Calvert, St. Marys and Anne Arundel counties. The maximum amount for each mini grant award is $500. The Southern Maryland RC&D Board will accept applications at its office in Leonardtown via email, fax or regular mail. The Mini Grant Program will operate on a rolling basis throughout the fiscal year (July 2011 to June 2012) while funds are available. Applications are due the 1st of every month. Visit the website at www.somdrcd.org for more information about RC&D. Call the RC&D office at 301-4758427 X 6 or email denitra.brawner@somdrcd.org if you are interested in applying and would like to receive an application. The RC&D is a nonprofit organization that carries out community development and conservation projects in Charles, Calvert, St. Marys and Anne Arundel Counties.

Childrens Books Donated to CMH

Seventh and eighth grade National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) students from Saint Mary of the Assumption School in Upper Marlboro, recently donated 355 books for pediatric patients at Calvert Memorial Hospital. Roman Huntley, right, presenting a book to Chad Lankford, Emergency Department RN, spearheaded the project after visiting his brother in the hospital. President of the NJHS, he and other honor students worked with the school and church to collect brand new books and the school sanctioned a Jersey Day where kids could wear a sports jersey to school if they dropped off a new book. Also pictured with the students are Principal Steven Showalter, left, Rev. William Foley, pastor, and William Clancey, vice principal and NJHS Advisor.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

Spotlight On

Preparing for the Next Step

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer Students, parents and members of the community came out to College of Southern Maryland (CSM)s Prince Fredrick Campus to discuss what students want to do with their lives and how to prepare to succeed. The Southern Maryland Campus Access Network (CAN) hosted the first-ever CAN Career Summit on Dec. 3, bringing in 26 students, parents and Calvert County Rotary members to discuss the tools students need to succeed and Paige Wagner shares her goal of being a chef, and how to guide students in achieving their goals. the steps she has taken to achieve that goal. The summit was aimed at students in the You CAN: Early Awareness Program at Calvert Middle School, and was a success for the first time out of the gate, said CAN Executive Director Shelby Potts. I would not hesitate to do it again, she said. Along with meeting successful adults and getting advice on getting ahead in their careers before even graduating from high school, students received instruction on using Career Puppy, CANs career resource website, and got tips on networking. Calvert Middle School eighth grader Deija Henderson said she was asked to go to the summit, and she thought the morning was very helpful for guiding her in choosing courses to take in high school to prepare for life after graduation.
Gwen Schiada talks to Darius Jackson networking breakout session. during a

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Margie Nelson Nancy Ciancio

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sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Teachers, Support Staff Agree to New Contracts

The Calvert County Board of Education (BOE) and the Calvert Education Association, the association that represents Calverts teachers, announced Dec. 1 that the two negotiating teams reached a tentative agreement on the remaining articles in the teacher employment contract, a joint press release states. On Dec. 1, the teams reached agreement on the following items: Tenured teachers with 10 or more years of experience earned shall be allowed to convert one day of sick leave, per school year, to be used as personal leave when all personal leave has been exhausted; If additional operating funds become available negotiations will commence within 20 days, following the appropriate approval process, to provide additional salary and/or compensation; For changes in teacher certification, teachers submitting paperwork by Aug. 15 will receive a full salary adjustment for that school year; teachers submitting paperwork by Ja. 30 will receive one-half pay adjustment for that school year; and, Teachers who lose their jobs because of a reduction in force and are rehired, with no break in service, will be placed on their proper pay scale. Teachers will receive no cost of living or longevity (step) increases for this school year. Both the teachers and the BOE must now ratify the contract addendum. On Dec. 5, the BOE and the Calvert Association of Educational Support Staff also reached a tentative agreement on the remaining articles in the support staff employment contract, a BOE press release states. On Dec. 5, the teams reached agreement on the following items: Employees with 10 or more years of experience earned shall be allowed to convert one day of sick leave, per school year, to be used as personal leave when all personal leave has been exhausted; If additional operating funds become available to the school system negotiations will commence within 20 days, following the appropriate approval process, to provide additional salary and/or compensation to employees for the Fiscal Year 2012 school year; The parties will establish a study committee to review the job responsibilities and compensation for school nurses. Within 60 days of the initial meeting, the study committee will provide written recommendations to the Superintendent for implementation; Support employees will receive approved professional leave to attend the MSEA fall conference; and, Employees will receive no cost of living or longevity (step) increases for this school year. Both the support employees and the BOE must now ratify the contract addendum.

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STORY

Thursday, December 8, 2011

10

Former Defense Consultant Makes a Living on Running Errands

Early this year, Gibson bought out her partner, who returned to consulting work. Over the years Gibson has done a variety of things. One Jan Gibson, owner of Infinite Errands says as long as it is of her long term clients hates to open mail. She puts it in a bag legal, ethical and moral her concierge service is available to and every week I weed through it, toss the junk mail and pay her help. bills. She opened an account for me and she transfers the right Stand in line on Black Friday? amount of money into it. I like it because I can go online after I havent yet. No, I take that back. I did pick up something midnight. for someone, but I was already planning to be in line myself. But One of her original clients asked if she was an escort serI do Christmas shopping. vice. No, but I had an elderly customer ask me to go online and Decorate homes for the holidays? help find her a man. I told her Id sit beside her and show her how Im scheduled next week to decorate someones home. I to go online but that shed have to answer all the emails. dont do outside lights. When she and her partner first started the business, they Take cars for the emissions testing? envisioned having more clients among two income families who I thought I would be doing of that type of thing when we were too busy to do their errands. However, the business has first started the business. But I think people are nervous about mostly senior citizens and corporate clients. others driving their cars. I do a lot at Asbury-Solomons. Their staff cant help them At the end of 2007 Gibson and a co-worker were becom- move units, so I help pack, move, unpack and hang pictures. I ing unhappy in their work as consultants for Northrop Grum- do a lot of grocery shopping. Food Lion staff knows me well. Her corporate clients use her services as a personal assisman. At her friends suggestion they looked into concierge services. Gibson called some of the companies around the tant. She manages their calendars, makes their travel arrangecountry in business and asked them questions. After some ments, plans parties and meetings, answers phones and does research, she and her co-worker began the business together. data entry. She said with technology, her corporate clients can forward their phones to her and when she answers the clients dont know they arent talking to someone in the office. Available technology offered through such services and Google Voice and LogMeIn makes her remote service to the corporate client seemless. (Phone clients) will say, Ill see you then. And Ill laugh to myself, No you wont. She does a fair amount of shopping. She does Trader Joe runs and BJ runs. So far I havent been able to get people to let me put those runs on the same day as other clients. Some clients give her specifics on their shopping lists such as brand names, but for the most part, shes learned what is important to each of her clients. For some its brand names, for others its cost savings and others its gas points. A relocation company from out West calls her about once a month to help with transferring employees finding a place to live. Shell take them around to see apartments and houses. She takes a realtor with her, but she likes the fact that shes not bound by the same laws and professional codes. I can drive by an apartment complex or neighborhood and say, Were not going to look there today. While a realtor cant. Among her favorite activities is planning meetings and parties. Shell make all the arrangements and arrive to make sure everything is set up. She says she wont plan weddings; however. She then listed a number of weddings she did help plan. There is not too much that I dont want to do. Photo By Frank Marquart I havent woken up in the morning yet and regretted Jan Gibson having to go do something, she said. Even with a tight economy her business is doing well. For some of my clients it is not a luxury, it is a necessity. I have two legally blind women Ive helped but Ive learned a lot from. She charges by the hour in 15 minute increments. She sells 10, 20 and 30 hour packages, each coming with a discount for purchasing more hours. She also provides a 10 percent discount to senior citizens. Although there is concierge software available to organize her time and billing, Gibson prefers a spiral notebook. She writes down what she did, how long she did it and for whom. Then she transfers her data every couple days into her Quickbooks and Outlook Calendar which syncs to her phone. By Corrin M. Howe Staff Writer

Infinite Errands services include, but are not limited to:

(schedule appointments, schedule tee times, reminder service) (UPS/FedEX drop off, gift wrapping, gift returns, shopping) (meet deliver people, house sit, pet sit, bring personal items)

Concierge Services Errand Services Hospital Stay

Travel Arrangements
(set up romantic get-a-ways, arrange for out-of-town guests)

(pick up and return rentals, wedding day errands, stock newlywed kitchen) (take in for repairs, maintenance, inspections) (catering, event planning, Internet research, Thank you notes, Invitations) (dry cleaning, videos, library books, prescriptions, donations) (feed and walk pets, water plants, open up vacation homes, rotate blinds and lights) (waiting services, installation, scheduling contractors) (One client calls me the throw away lady.) (packing, unpacking, hanging pictures, waiting for telephone and cable) Her family has been supportive of her business and helps out time to time. Her husband will provide handyman services while her daughter helps with the pet sitting. Occasionally she does have to contract help. In fact, Gibson said Infinite Errands is on the cusp of needing to hire employees. However, mentally shes not prepared to take the next step just yet. She has been able to accept all jobs coming to her and still schedule her work so it hasnt interfered with her personal life. She tries to keep her work Monday through Friday during the day. She has a small advertising budget; however, she finds most of her business comes to her by word of mouth and her website. In fact, her presence on the Internet is what attracted her corporate clients. She did not approach them first. The one area she has not expanded her business is in transportation. She looked into it one time, but even occasionally carrying a client was cost prohibitive when it came to insurance. She finds providing affordable transportation is a desperate need in the county if someone wants to attempt to fill it. Gibson said one service she planned to provide but no one has taken her up yet is planning and delivering a romantic meal. After Christmas and New Years the next major holiday is Valentines Day. Infinite Errands can be reached by phone: 410-414-5222, email: ie-requests@infiniteerrands.com or website: infiniteerrands.com. corrin@somdpublishing.net

Wedding Help Car Services

Personal Assistance Pick up/Drop off

House Sit & Pet Sit Home Repairs:

Home / Office Organization Relocation Services

11

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

Farmers Look for Alternative Money Makers

By Sarah Miller Staff Writer In difficult economic times, farmers in the area have been forced to find alternative revenue streams for their farms, delving into agritourism and even taking second jobs that take farmers away from their land in order to keep their livelihoods afloat. Debbie Jones, the countys agriculture commission chairperson, said finding alternative revenues is necessary. Unfortunately, you have to, she said. You cant make it on farming anymore. Jones co-owns the Windy Willow Farm in Sunderland, which tied for the Sustainable Meat Producer of the Year award with Crooked Branch Farm, also in Sunderland. The farm was a former tobacco farm until the state buyout, she said. She and her husband took over the farm after the buyout. According to information from the Southern Maryland Agriculture Commission, 195 growers in Calvert County took the buyout, which started in 2001 and ended in 2005. Jones said the last of the payments for the first year participants were made in 2011. The planning commission recently received questions to consider before their Dec. 14 meeting pertaining to proposed zoning code changes for farmland. The questions include the number of public events farms can have and the size such events can be. There were also questions about retail greenhouses selling non-plant items and the size of the locations at which non-plant things can be sold. Changing the zoning codes can be extremely frustrating and cumbersome, Jones said. There are tweaks and revisions that have to be read, and the zoning code is so complicated that it is impossible to make a one-size-fits-all change due to the differences in zones, or to find changes that please everybody, she said. You always know youre not going to get everything you want, Jones said. While the alternate revenue streams are necessary, Jones said it is also necessary to make sure the secondary businesses run on farms mesh well with the location. She wouldnt support industrial additions, but she said bed and breakfasts, corn mazes and other farm-friendly agritourism uses are needed to help keep local farmers afloat. sarahmiller@countytimes.net

Ladies Night Out Focuses on Pampering

By Corrin M. Howe Staff Writer Last Thursday night, Meraj Dental Spa turned into a calm and quiet place for ladies to hang out, visit and check out some new ways to pamper themselves. Although the turnout was low for this scheduled event, Dr. Sharmin Merajs previous Ladies Night Out has had between 30 to 60 women attend. She is still trying to find the right format. This is the first time weve tried this in December. We also charged a nominal fee to sample the services, said Meraj. In the past the services were provided for free. The dental office doesnt have the look and feel of a typical dental office. Women arrived to a warm environment of Harvest yellow walls and dark hardwood floors. The lights dimmed with tea candles burning and red rose buds sprinkled throughout the office. One area served drinks while another area was set up with cheese, crackers and grapes. Meraj and Tracey Eno, who provides massage therapy both for Meraj Dental Spa and her own clients, invited a number of other businesswomen to make the night of pampering complete. Sergina Rodriguez took one of the dental rooms to introduce women to her Esthetician and Makeup Artistry by way of waxing and skincare. Victoria Ronan, a certified makeup artist and District Manager for Arbonne International took over another room to apply make-up. Eno already has her own room at the Dental Spa for her massage therapy and Trager Bodywork. And Meraj was on hand to answer questions about her Dental Spa. No, I dont massage your gums. Providing a relaxing experience when going to the dentist was Merajs goal when she opened up her Dental Spa. She also takes advantage of her office space to network and support other women-owned businesses. To find out when the next Ladies Night

Sergina Rodriguez shows off one of her catalogues to a Ladies Night Out visitor.

Out is, go to Meraj Dental Spas Facebook page or her website at www.merajdentalspa.com. corrin@somdpublishing.net

Meat Processing Farm Could Help Budding Industry

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer A farmer who wants to establish a processing facility on his land to allow for the packaging and freezing of locally raised meats to regional markets will present his proposal to the St. Marys Board of Zoning Appeals tonight. Johnny Knott, who ran into community opposition to his plans last year to establish a slaughter house on his Mechanicsville property, says his latest proposal will still benefit farmers in the tri-county region but will have much less impact than the relatively small slaughter operation he first planned. Knotts plan is to have the processing facility receive the butchered local meat from surrounding farms via a mobile freezer unit in the form of a vehicle trailer. County records of the project show the facility would only be used for aging, cutting and packaging meat and will be situated 800-feet from Reeves Road on Knotts 30-acre farm. The mobile meat trailer, was well as two fixed trailers on the site, are designed to prevent the escape of odors, animal byproducts and gray water. A 2,000 gallon tank on site will be used as a container for all gray water coming off the site, county documents stated. Knott has proposed to operate four days a week, split between off-site and on-site work to initially process between three to four cattle a week, and the mobile meat truck will be the only one traveling to and from the site. County officials said because of the novelty of Knotts original slaughterhouse proposal, there was confusion over whether that new plan amounted to a major or minor agricultural use. Thursdays hearing of the appeals board will decided whether they will grant a conditional use to the newly proposed processing facility, which has been
Johnny Knott, on his 30-acre farm in Mechanicsville, is pressing ahead with his proposal to open a meat processing facility on his farm.

deemed a major agricultural use, according to documents from county staff. Its a murky issue, weve never done what hes asking, said Bob Schaller, director of the St. Marys Department of Economic and Community Development. Schaller added that such a facility would mean much lower costs for local farmers who want to raise livestock for meat sale; currently they must ship their meat to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-certified facility in either in Virginia or Northern Maryland for processing. Having a processing facility locally, however small at first, makes sense to kickstarting another agricultural industry in Calvert, St. Marys and Charles counties, Schaller said. Thats the reason he wants it on Reeves Road, to make it a more central location for regional farmers, he said. Knott said the trailer he proposes to transport the already-slaughtered animals to his processing facility would be able to carry no more than seven beef carcasses at one time, limiting the traffic on Reeves Road. Potential traffic generated by his proposed slaughterhouse was one of the central concerns of nearby residents and resulted in significant community opposition. Its not going to have any impact, no noise, no smell, no traffic, Knott told The Calvert Gazette last week. The USDA man will be right there to put his stamp on it. Knott said because many Southern Maryland farmers abandoned farming tobacco to take part in the state-sponsored buyout 10 years ago, they need to find new industries to stay profitable. I hope they go back to livestock to save their farms, Knott said. guyleonard@countytimes.net

Golf Course Shows Environmental Responsibility Not A Baaaaad Thing

Mark Doc Grace, Owner/Operator of Mellomar Golf Park in Lower Marlboro has teamed up with Mary Bowen of Prosperity Acres, a beef and goat farm in Sunderland. to create a true win-win arrangement in the world of golf and goats. In the world of golf course maintenance, two of the biggest expenses on the balance sheet are labor and chemicals, a press release from Mellomar states. In the world of goat raising and breeding, there is always a need for more grazing land and larger herds. All this is coming together at Mellomar Golf Park. What we have here is basically a free lease arrangement, explains Grace. My situation is the need to control unwanted vegetation in certain areas of the golf course. But the times being what they are, budget restrictions are hindering my ability to adequately address this problem. Marys goats are the answer. They willingly work weekends and arent aware of any scheduled holidays. Tee one up on any given day at Mellomar and youll come across the herd, dutifully munching, gnawing, and trimming back the underbrush that restricts much needed air circulation around the turf. The farm needed room to expand, explains Bowen. So when Doc came looking to purchase a couple goats we discovered our mutual needs and the arrangement was made. It all came together perfectly. Turns out this has a become a win-winwin-win situation. Mellomar Golf Park has saved money in manpower and chemicals, and Prosperity Acres has found new grazing land and the goat herd is in the process of expanding. It really is a sight to see, just dont touch the fence, the press release states. Prosperity Acres, a family-owned beef and goat farm, produces local, naturally fed meats for their family and community. Find them on the web at www.prosperityacres. com. Mellomar Golf Park consists of a driving range, nine-hole par three course, and a regulation length nine-hole course. They can be found on the web at www.mellomar.com.

The Calvert Gazette

Thursday, December 8, 2011

12

POLICE BLOTTER Annual

On Nov. 27 at 4:09 p.m., Trooper Costello stopped a vehicle for traffic violations on Main St. near Armory Rd. in Prince Frederick. Lesley R. Campbell, 30 of Prince Frederick, was found to be in possession of alleged marijuana. He was arrested and incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.

Man charged with pot possession

SciencePolice seeking fuel thief Fair Reengineered

Alleged Killer of Lusby Man on Trial

By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Opening arguments began Tuesday in the trial of Keith D. Little, 50, of Boyds, who is accused of killing Roosevelt Brockington, Jr., of Lusby the beginning of this year at Suburban Hospital in Montgomery County. Little faces first-degree murder charges in Brockingtons slaying, court records show, as well as a charge of armed robbery. Brockington, 49, had been an employee at Suburban Hospital since August 2006, Montgomery County police stated in a press release. Montgomery County police arrived at the hospital after an assault was reported just before 10:30 a.m. Jan. 1 at the hospital located on Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda. Police officers found the victim suffering from trauma to his upper body and he died on the scene despite efforts to treat him for his injuries. The assault occurred in an area separated from patients, visitors and hospital staff, police stated. Just days after the homicide, Montgomery Police Chief Tom Manger said in broadcast interviews that police believed that anger was the motive for Littles alleged killing of Brockington. According to police, Brockington was Littles maintenance supervisor at Suburban Hospital and had just given him a poor performance evaluation; this would prevent Little from getting a raise, police said. We believe this may have been the motive for the homicide, Manger told reporters back in January. Manger said information gathered by police showed that at the time of Brockingtons death he was on the phone with a friend making the call from the hospitals boiler room. That friend overheard someone say to the victim, Give me your money Do you have any more? Manger said back in January. There was a commotion and the phone went dead. Manger had told reporters that the boiler room was only accessible by hospital employees and that narrowed the investigators search, also an employee tip naming Little focused their investigation. That employee told police they had seen Little carrying a bucket with a black ski mask and gloves soaking in liquid, Manger said. The police chief said that Brockingtons killing was brutal to the extreme. He had been stabbed over 70 times, Manger said. Manger said that Little had been charged with first-degree murder of another co-worker in the District several years ago, but Little was never convicted of that crime. guyleonard@countytimes.net

On Dec.4 at 11:30 a.m., Trooper First Class Evans responded to the Fast Stop in St. Leonard for a reported theft. Gas was taken and the vehicle left without payment. Investigation continues.

On Nov. 30 at 3:03 p.m., Trooper First Class Sorenson responded to the 11800 block of Crown Dr. in Dunkirk for a reported burglary. A home was broken into and four electric guitars were stolen. Investigation continues.

Guitars stolen from home

Man arrested for pot possession, driving under the influence

On Nov. 28 at 8:34 a.m. Dep. C. Fox contacted the driver of a vehicle that had been called in to the Calvert Control Center. It appeared the driver was slumped over the wheel of the vehicle while it was in the turn lane Ryan Daniel Mullen near Town Center Blvd. in Dunkirk. Cpl. M. McCarroll tried to open the door but it was locked. He knocked numerous times on the windows of the vehicle and the driver woke up and drove into the BP gas station near the car wash. He initially would not open the door or window but finally did, police said. Ryan Daniel Mullen, 27, of Dunkirk, was arrested and charged for allegedly driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol and possession of marijuana.

On Nov. 30 at 10:41 p.m., Trooper Williams responded to the Fast Stop in St. Leonard for a shoplifting complaint. Ronald L. Bowie, Jr., 21, of Prince Frederick, was arrested for shoplifting and was also found to have an open warrant through Montgomery County, police reported. He was incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.

Man arrested, charged with theft

On Dec. 3 at 12:57 a.m., Trooper Esnes stopped a vehicle for traffic violations at Little Cove Point Rd. and Rudolph Lane in Lusby. Amy M. Blount, 33, of Lusby, was found to be in possession of cocaine and marijuana, police alleged. She was charged and incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.

Woman charged with cocaine, pot possession

Police investigating vehicle burglaries

Unknown suspect(s) stole over $1,000 worth of property from an unsecured vehicle parked outside a home on Long Beach Drive in St. Leonard on Nov. 25 between 5-6 p.m. A black leather Dooney & Bourke purse containing a make-up case and Maui Jim sunglasses as well as some cash was stolen. Cpl. R. Selkirk is investigating. Someone entered an unlocked vehicle on Long Horn Circle in Lusby overnight between Nov. 27 and 28 and stole an Ipod touch, Nike boots, a wedding ring set and blank checks all together valued at over $2600. Dep. R. Kampf is investigating. On Dec. 3 at around noon a victim advised DFC J. Norton that someone had entered her locked vehicle while it was parked outside Asbury Retirement Community in Solomons between 10:30 a.m. and 11:55 a.m. that day. The culprit(s) stole a gray Garmin Nuvi GPS and a Verizon cell phone charger. Over $1400 in property was stolen from an unlocked vehicle outside a home on Stella Drive in Huntingtown between midnight and 2:00 p.m. on December 4. Some of the items are a Tom Tom GPS, Ipod touch, Oakley sunglasses, Ipod Nano, Bose headphones, and a Slime air compressor. Dep. R. Kampf is continuing the investigation.

Info Sought on Huntingtown Crash

On Nov. 29, at approximately 8:39 p.m. members of the Calvert County Sheriffs Office Patrol Bureau and Crash Reconstruction Team were dispatched to the area of Plum Point Road and Tobacco Road in Huntingtown for the report of a single motor vehicle crash involving injuries. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2008 GMC Yukon operated by Brian Keith Rader, 23, of Huntingtown, was traveling east bound on Plum Point Road approaching Tobacco Road. For unknown reasons, the vehicle left the roadway and subsequently made contact with a guardrail. The vehicle continued to travel in the easterly direction straddling the guardrail. The vehicle ultimately struck a tree causing the vehicle to roll over and come to rest in the westbound lane of Plum Point Road prior to Tobacco Road, police report. Rader was subsequently transported via ambulance by ground to Baltimore Shock Trauma, where he was listed in critical condition. Det. N. DeFelice of the Crash Reconstruction Team is conducting an investigation into the events that lead up to the collision. Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact the Calvert County Sheriffs Office at 410-535-2800.

On Dec. 3 at 11:28 a.m., Sr. Trooper Gill responded to the EZ Thai Restaurant in Prince Frederick for a destruction of property complaint. Unknown suspect(s) cracked the plate glass front window of the business. Investigation continues.

Restaurant window defaced

On Dec. 3 at 2 p.m., Sr. Trooper Gill responded to the Running Hare Vineyard in Prince Frederick for a reported burglary. The business was entered after hours and money was stolen from the cash register. Investigation continues.

Vinyards cash register pilfered

On Dec. 3 at 10:43 p.m., Trooper Matthews responded to the 1900 block of Constitution Drive in St. Leonard for a reported destruction of property. A mailbox was destroyed. Investigation continues.

Police investigate mailbox destruction

Your Online Community For Charles, Calvert, and St. Marys Counties www.somd.com

13

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

Guest Editorial:

By Marta Hummel Mossburg

Crony Capitalism in Maryland

The stink emanating from the planned move of the Department of Housing and Community Development from Anne Arundel County to Prince Georges County rivals rot exposed from corruption trials this year of politicians from the agencys

TTER E to the
Editor

A 2008 legal notice showed the company was the subject of a foreclosure sale by UrbanAmerica, a previous partner, to recoup $5.5 million. UrbanAmerica did not return a phone call seeking information about the sale. DHCD, the agency whose new headquarters Williams is supposed to build, rejected a loan application from him for senior living apartments he wanted to build in 2005 and 2006. In response to a Maryland Public Information Act request, the department would not release information about its reasons for rejecting Williams loan application, saying that was private information not covered under the state public information law.

What Should Be Allowed on Farms? ommissioners

By Susan Shaw President, Calvert County Commissioners
The other controversial zoning issue, which is awaiting Planning Commission action before their recommendation is forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners , involves what activities will be permitted on Agricultural Preservation Districts (APDs). APDs are agricultural land that has been certified for a specific number of Transferable Development Rights to be sold in return for a deed restriction that requires that the land remain agricultural forever. What agritourism or ecotourism or other uses should be allowed on a working farm? Currently, the Zoning Ordinance is contradictory. In an effort to clarify, without confusion, an unlimited number of events was proposed. Corn mazes are already allowed. So are commercial kitchens on farms. As I described in my last article, restrictions are placed on nurseries and greenhouses on farms or outside town centers. What about farm equipment repair or sales? Should farm stands be allowed? If so, should they be limited in size or in what they can sell? Remember that MOST retail was supposed to be limited outside of Town Centers to maintain the rural character of Calvert. The main controversy stems over events on APDs, however. There was a proposal that only non-profit events be held on APDs, except for two other events al-

orner c

future home. Financial concerns are one component of the stench. Abandoning the agencys current headquarters owned by taxpayers in Crownsville for a new $170 million development in New Carrollton will cost about $3 million per year in rent, not counting any state financing for the developer. Even more important, the state is broke and legislators likely will raise taxes next year to cover core expenses. But money and economics are not the only issues. Carl S. Williams is the other. He is the developer who for years has been trying to build the large mixed-use project known as Metroview that the state selected as the new DHCD headquarters. Williams will not discuss his background with me. And his record has so far been shrouded by the state, which chose his project over 16 others but will not release the bids, which include information on the background of the developers, their financing and past history. Williams is part of a development group, but the state will only release his name and the fact that he is from Prince Georges County both important factors for a project to be built there.

Keeping a low profile

As it turns out, its easy to see why Williams would like to maintain a low profile. Public records raise many questions about Williams ability to finance the $170 million project, his credibility and the prevalence of crony capitalism in Maryland. This comes on the heels of legal troubles for two Prince Georges County political figures former County Executive Jack Johnson, who pleaded guilty to a federal extortion charge for shaking down developers and business owners, and state Sen. Ulysses Currie, the former head of the Budget and Taxation Committee who is facing possible legislative censure after a federal jury acquitted him of corruption charges in hiding his financial connection to Shoppers Food Warehouse while advocating on the companys behalf. Public records show that Williams is firmly entrenched with Democrats. Williams gave $19,000 to candidates from the states dominant party from 2003 to 2011, including $4,000 to Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown, $4,000 to Currie and $1,400 to Johnson. The records also reveal someone with many debts rising from his businesses, The Carl Williams Group and the nonprofit St. Paul Community Development Corp. The Carl Williams Group website lists the firm as a partner in Metroview. However, according to the State Department of Assessments and Taxation, the company status is forfeited. This means its existence has been ended by the State for some delinquency.

DHCD is not known for its high lending standards. One of its questionable decisions, according to a state audit, was extending $385,000 to Tom Kiefaber, the previous owner of the Senator Theatre in Baltimore. When Kiefaber defaulted on that loan, DHCD loaned him another $378,000. Prince Georges County court records show judgments against Williams in relation to his capacity as head of St. Paul Community Development Corp. He owes MMA Capital Corp. $1,995,611.97 from a 2009 judgment listed as still active. In 2005, LaSalle Bank won a judgment against him of $718,468.21. That case is closed. Publicly available tax records from 2006 to 2008 list Williams as executive director of the nonprofit St. Paul Community Development Corp., where his salary reached $125,000 in one of those years. Also of note: The Carl Williams Group spent $125,000 lobbying the state legislature in 2008 the same year as the $5.5 million foreclosure sale noted above and one year before the nearly $2 million judgment against him. Bills listed as subjects of lobbying include one that codified transit-oriented development, important for Metroview, and one to allow bond proceeds to be used for tax increment financing in Prince Georges County. According to Prince Georges County court records, The Carl Williams Group did not pay Gally Public Affairs, its lobbyist, in full. A judgment against the company for Publisher Thomas McKay $73,801.96 in 2010 is still acAssociate Publisher Eric McKay tive. Eric Gally did not return a Editor Sean Rice phone call for comment. The members of the state Graphic Artist Angie Stalcup Board of Public Works Gov. Office Manager Tobie Pulliam Martin OMalley, Treasurer Advertising sales@somdpublishing.net Nancy Kopp and ComptrolEmail info@somdpublishing.net ler Peter Franchot should Phone 301-373-4125 not vote on the project when it comes before them withStaff Writers out knowing Williams backGuy Leonard Law Enforcement Sarah Miller Government, Education ground. It would be like hiring Corrin Howe Community, Business someone without a resume, interview and background check. Contributing Writers The agencys current Joyce Baki building is already owned by Keith McGuire the state and meets its needs, so the proposed move should be P. O. Box 250 . Hollywood, MD 20636 cancelled. Maryland taxpayers deserve better than a secretive, The Calvert Gazette is a weekly newspaper providing news and information for the residents of expensive deal at a time they Calvert County. The Calvert Gazette will be available on newsstands every Thursday. The paper is can least afford it. published by Southern Maryland Publishing Company, which is responsible for the form, content, and policies of the newspaper. The Calvert Gazette does not espouse any political belief or endorse any Marta Hummel Mossburg product or service in its news coverage. Articles and letters submitted for publication must be signed is a senior fellow at the Maryand may be edited for length or content. The Calvert Gazette is not responsible for any claims made land Public Policy Institute. by its advertisers.

Questionable DHCD loans

lowed per year, like weddings, reunions, concerts, picnics, parties, political fundraisers, for example. Additionally, the Agriculture Preservation Advisory Board (APAB), citizens connected to farming and appointed by the commissioners, wants to be able to approve or deny each event at their monthly meetings. Working farms, including vineyards, are often beautiful and scenic locations for events like weddings and those just listed above. The members of the APAB do not want these events on farms. They embrace traditional agriculture. However, other Advisory Boards including the Economic Development Commission, the Tourism Advisory Commission, the Agriculture Commission, which promotes agriculture, and others disagree. They point out that weddings and other events draw guests and tourists to our hotels and restaurants and make our whole local economy viable while encouraging a positive attitude about agriculture and greater knowledge of local farms. Do you see how complicated zoning and allowed uses become? What is your opinion on this controversial topic? Should a vineyard be allowed to host weddings and concerts, as in other counties? If so, with what restrictions? Should a farm also host an agricultural education center? To make comments on either of these zoning issues, go to www.co.cal.md.us, then Planning and Zoning on the home page or call 410-535-1600 and ask for Planning and Zoning. How business-friendly should Calvert County be regarding preservation areas? Stay tuned as this debate continues.

Calvert Gazette

The Calvert Gazette

Thursday, December 8, 2011

14

Capt. Edward Duffy, 75

Capt. Edward J. P. Duffy, USNR Retired, the beloved husband of Peggy, his wife of 27 years passed away peacefully on Nov. 27, 2011 at his home in Lusby, MD at age 75. He was born on Sept. 2, 1936 in Brooklyn, NY to immigrant parents, the late James and Kathleen Duffy. He graduated from Erasmus High and then the Brooklyn School of Aeronautics certified in aircraft maintenance. The Navy recruited him for a cadet program where he graduated flight training at US Naval Air Station, Corpus Christi, TX in 1957. He served 6 years active duty as a Transport Training Commander and Pilot, then served most of his 18 years in the Naval Reserve as a Transport Pilot at Andrews Air Force Base, MD until his retirement in 1978. His commercial career with the airlines spanned almost 30 years beginning with Capital Airlines in 1959. Capital merged shortly thereafter with United Airlines where he flew domestic flights until he retired in1988. After 30 years of residing in California he returned to Maryland with his wife in 2008. He was proud to be a member of The Naval Reserve Association, The American Legion, The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, The Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels, and The Retired United Pilots Association. He belonged to both Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Solomons, MD and St. Teresa of Avila in Bodega, Calif. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, boats, reading and researching Civil War History. He was a loving father of daughters, Mary Clabaugh of Roswell, NM, Anna Duffy of Rohnert Park, Calif, and son Tim Duffy of San Jose, Calif. He is predeceased by his daughter Katie Duffy and his sister Anna Mahoney. Also survived by his sister, Patricia Warnock of Hackettstown, NJ, 6 stepchildren, 15 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be celebrated at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Bodega, Calif. The Rosary will be at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9 and Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, Dec. 10. Inurnment immediately following at Calvert Catholic Cemetery in Bodega, Calif. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be

made in his memory to The Katie Duffy Memorial Scholarship Program c/o YWCA, Sonoma County, P O Box 3506, Santa Rosa, Calif, 95402, The Fisher House Foundation, Inc.111 Rockville Pike, Suite 420, Rockville, MD 20850-5168 or the charity of your choice. Arrangements by the Rausch Funeral Home, P. A., Lusby, MD, www.rauschfuneralhomes.com.

John Firebaugh, 89
John Clifton Firebaugh, 89, of Lothian, MD died Dec. 5, 2011 at his home. Surviving are his beloved wife Ruby L. Firebaugh; sons Barry L. Firebaugh and his wife Linda of Sykesville, MD and John C. Firebaugh, Jr. and his wife Juanita of Severn, MD and seven grandchildren. Friends were received on Wednesday, December 7, 2011 at Rausch Funeral Home, P.A., 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane, Owings, MD where services will be held Thursday at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Ft. Lincoln Cemetery, Brentwood, MD. For information visit www.RauschFuneralHomes.com.

Bernard is survived by his wife Dorothy T. Greenwell of Brandywine, MD; four sons, Bernard R. Greenwell, Jr. of Cape Coral, FL, Michael D. Greenwell of Broomes Island, MD, A. John Greenwell and his wife Kim of Lusby, MD, and Gary S. Tippett and his wife Donna of Brandywine, MD. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters Betty Gibson and her husband Jim of Drum Point, MD and Dale Cusick of North Beach, MD. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Alfred and Paul Greenwell. Friends were received on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011 at Rausch Funeral Home, P.A., 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane, Owings, MD, where services were held Wednesday December 7, 2011. Interment followed at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD. Arrangements by Rausch Funeral Home, 8325 Mount Harmony Lane, Owings, MD, www.RauschFuneralHomes.com.

Marjorie Lortz, 81
Marjorie Doris Lortz, 81, of Port Orange, FL, formerly of Lusby, MD passed away on November 29, 2011 in Daytona Beach, FL. She was born on December 2, 1929 in Washington, DC to the late Patrick and Alberta Thomas Ketner. Marjorie is survived by her son, Wallace Thomas Campbell and his wife Helen of Frisco, TX; brother, Robert T. Ketner and wife Grace of Lusby, MD; five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, William David Lortz, and brother, Ernest F. Ketner. The family will receive friends on Friday, December 16, 2011 from 10 11 a.m. in the Rausch Funeral Home, Lusby, MD where a funeral service will be offered at 11 a.m. with Rev. David Graves officiating. Interment will follow in the Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD.

the bounty with his friends and neighbors, and loved visiting and spending time with family, friends and people in his community. Bunny was preceded in death by his parents and by siblings George, Reginald, Carl, Ray, Emma and Edna Nutwell. He is survived by his wife of 67 years Mary Louise (Randall) Nutwell, a son John B. Nutwell, Jr. and wife Deborah, and grandson J. Ross Nutwell, all of Pasadena, and by a greatgrandson Mason Ross Nutwell of Ft. Lauderdale FL. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews. Friends and family were received Wednesday Nov. 30 at Rausch Funeral Home, P.A., 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane, Owings, MD. Funeral services and a celebration of Bunnys life was held on Thursday Dec. 1, 2011 at Cedar Grove U.M. Church in Deale, MD. Interment followed at St. James Parish Cemetery in Lothian, MD. Expressions of sympathy in Bunnys name may be made to Cedar Grove U.M. Church, 753 Masons Beach Rd, Deale, MD 20751. Arrangements by Rausch Funeral Home, 8325 Mount Harmony Lane, Owings, MD, www.RauschFuneralHomes.com.

Jack Vickery, 66
Jack Pulliam Vickery, 66, a resident of Owings, MD since 1979 passed away Nov. 27, 2011 at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. Jack was born September 28, 1945 in Washington, D.C. to Ottie Inez (Pulliam) and Roger Burton Vickery. He was raised in Suitland, MD and graduated from Suitland High School, class of 1963. Jack was employed as a chief engineer managing HVAC systems in office buildings in the District of Columbia. He had been retired since 2009. In his leisure time Jack enjoyed NASCAR, fishing and hunting, and for many years owned racehorses that ran at local racetracks. Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Lorraine L. Martin. He is survived by daughters Deborah L. Martin of Owings, Tammy J. Heinrich and husband Dewey of Prince Frederick, MD, and Kristine Martin. He is also survived by grandchildren Jaimie, Marissa, Nick, Justin, Jessica, Nicole and Mike, and by a brother George Thomas Tommy Vickery and wife Maria of University Park, Sarasota, FL, and their children Brian, Michelle and Christopher. Friends and family were received Friday Dec. 2 at Rausch Funeral Home, P.A., 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane, Owings, MD, where funeral services and a celebration of Jacks life were held Saturday Dec. 3. Interment will be private. Arrangements by Rausch Funeral Home, 8325 Mount Harmony Lane, Owings, MD, www.RauschFuneralHomes.com.

Bernard Greenwell, Sr., 74,

Bernard Robert Greenwell, Sr., 74, of Brandywine, MD died Nov. 26, 2011 at Southern Maryland Hospital in Clinton, MD. He was born July 27, 1937 in North Beach, MD to Alfred Hamilton and Delaware Amanda (Hall) Greenwell and attended Calvert County schools. Bernard was a proud veteran who enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on Oct. 21, 1955. He was assigned to the Marine Corps School in Quantico, VA and was discharged as a Private on Oct. 20, 1959. He was a secondgeneration plumber and had been employed by Krick Plumbing and Heating and Breeden Mechanical, and as a plumbing inspector in Calvert County before retiring in 2002. He enjoyed farming, hunting, fishing, and stock car racing. Bernard was a lifelong member of the Catholic faith.

John Nutwell, 91
John Bunyan Bunny Nutwell, 91, passed away Nov. 26, 2011 at the Baltimore Washington Medical Center in Glen Burnie, MD. Bunny was born Dec. 25, 1919 in Deale, MD to Marion Fennimore and Edna (Sherbert) Nutwell, and resided his entire life on the historic Nutwell Farm Loch Eden in Deale until moving with his wife Mary in 2009 to Pasadena, MD to live with their son John and his wife Debbie. Bunny attended Traceys School in Tracys Landing, MD, and was a lifelong farmer. Over the years Bunny was employed at the Maryland Tobacco Growers Association, worked as a carpenter for his cousin Bill Nutwell and for his brother Ray in his appliance business. For over 25 years Bunny was a funeral assistant with Rausch Funeral Home in Owings, MD, retiring in 2000. Bunny was a lifelong member of Cedar Grove United Methodist Church in Deale where he served in numerous positions including Sunday School Superintendent for fifteen years. Bunny enjoyed gardening and sharing

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15

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

SMS Teachers Still Perfect After Four Years of Playing Students

By Corrin M. Howe Staff Writer Southern Middle School science teacher Lorraine Dunigan set the tone for the fourth annual Staff vs. Students basketball game. As referee Mark Wilding tossed the ball up into the air for the opening tip off, Dunigan started taunting eighth-grader Darien Chase with a little jig. Both Dunigan and Chase missed the ball in the air, but Dunigan recovered first and pushed the ball down to her teammate. The teachers struck first with mediocre attempts to draw first blood. The students made the first real shots on the basket but failed to score. The first points came from the teachers at 3:35 minutes into the game. They followed up immediately with four more points. The wooden bleachers along one side of the gym were almost completely filled with students, a few parents and staff families. The crowd came to watch a basketball game but was treated to some wrestling, bowling and soccer too as the teachers tried to creatively keep Anna Kelly their advantage throughout the game. scores two The teachers call this the Teachers for the students. Beat the Students game, because they win every year, one sixth-grader said. Principal Dr. Cheryl Johnson smiled at the comment. She explained a raffle determines the student players. They use their PBIS SOAR bucks (awarded for good behavior) for chances to be picked to play. Six students represent each grade level. SMS Safety Advocate Kenny Seibert coached the students for the first time. They only found out yesterday they were on the team. We didnt have a chance to practice. I just told them to have fun. Im excited about the turn out. Hopefully we raised a lot of money. And nobody got hurt, said Seibert. Seibert agreed with the observation that the teachers advantage comes from height, patience and better communication on court. Referee Wilding appeared to help the students by suggesting students spread out before he would whistle the beginning of play. The students trailed the entire game. At halftime they were behind 10 points and brought it within four points with six minutes left in the game. Toward the end of the third quarter the students became scrappy in their play. Eighth grader Ryan Endress wrestled Physical Education teacher Tiffany Belleavoine for the ball. The ref called for a jump ball, allowing Endress to throw it in from out of bounds. Belleavoine tried unsuccessfully to garner sympathy from the crowd by rolling and rubbing her shoulder. Seventh grader Cameron Bond came out of nowhere to steal a pass to Belleavoine. He raced up the side of the court at lightning speed and made a three point shot before the team of teachers recovered from their shock. In another play, three of the smallest student players managed to bring one of the taller teachers to the ground like turkey vultures on a wounded deer. But all for naught. At the closing buzzer, the teachers won 66-55. It was a little scary toward the end, said the staffs coach Pamela Mackall. But I had confidence wed win. We didnt run the score up. Mackall also said she is excited about this years girls and boys basketball teams. The students played well. I saw a lot of potential out there. Im looking forward to watching them from the stands. The staff team received DARE t-shirts from the schools DARE officer and team member DFC Andrew Clas. The students wore the schools reversible team shirts. All the money raised from ticket and concession sales goes to the schools PBIS program to reward students for displaying the behavior the community wants to see throughout the year. corrin@somdpublishing.net
Photos by Corrin M. Howe

Newsmakers

Southern Middle School teachers take a team photo before the Fourth Annual Staff vs. Students Basketball game.

Southern Middle School crowd was more tame than the two teams they came to watch. Rarely did any play evoke more than a couple of students to stand and cheer.

Eighth Grader Darien Chase, left, represents the students, Lorraine Dunigan represents the teachers as Referee Mark Wilding starts the game.

The Calvert Gazette

Thursday, December 8, 2011

16

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1. Abu __, U.A.E. capital 6. Herring-like fishes 11. 55120 MN 12. Indigo bush 13. Pollyanna-ish 15. Pleasing to the ear 18. Parcels of land 19. Microns (alt. sp.) 20. Cooking containers 21. Express pleasure 24. Meat from a calf (alt.) 25. 7th Greek letter 26. Operated the sales register 30. Blueprint for the day 32. Congressperson (abbr.) 33. Angle (abbr.) 35. Fragrant health promotion 43. Trespasses 44. ___ Lanka 45. Wife of Hercules 47. A large body of water 48. Chicken house 49. Sicilian volcano 51. Coarse edible red seaweed

CLUES ACROSS

52. __ May, actress 54. Opposites of credits 55. Unable to move 57. Someone who is highly skilled 58. 100 = 1 kwacha 59. Rocky star Talia

CLUES DOWN

1. Having a sophisticated charm 2. Minute amounts (Scot.) 3. Turkish leaders title 4. Used for hitting the ball in various games 5. Not out 6. South Dakota 7. Possessed 8. Grad 9. UPS driver 10. Fired 13. In a way, augmented 14. River in SE S. Am. 16. Division of geological time 17. Follows sigma

21. Sign language 22. Expression of surprise 23. Hull Identification Number 26. Salmwood 27. Associated Press 28. Half of an em 29. Networks in Spanish 31. Dough fermenting agent 34. Auto fuel 36. An alternative 37. Manuscripts (abbr.) 38. Digested 39. Darjeeling or green 40. Horsepower 41. 1985 Formula 1 champion 42. Expression of alarm 43. Gain possession 45. Own (Scottish) 46. Snake-like fish 48. Dicer 50. Afresh 51. Hindu mother goddess 53. Before 54. Code for dash 56. Atomic #52 57. Millisecond

Last Weeks Puzzle Solutions

17

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

Keeping Muscle Tone as You Age

By Debra Meszaros MXSportsNutrition.com Aging gracefully is actually an obtainable goal. Just raising your awareness about certain processes of your body can help you reach it successfully. First, we must clarify a belief, that cardiovascular training is the answer to being in shape. Cardio training is only part of being fit; aging gracefully is a more comprehensive program. The larger issue is tissue deterioration due to immobilization. This makes strength training on a regular basis one of the main components of an anti-aging program. Older muscles do not respond too well to sudden exercise; so do not rest those muscles for long periods of time. Your objective should be to keep exercising throughout your life. If you are at the point in your life where you have already been immobile or not exercising, then start by gently beginning a program that is age appropriate and within your level of current fitness. Otherwise you increase the likelihood of causing scarring or inflammation. Seeking the help of a qualified trainer or physical therapist is a safe approach. needed to carry out vital functions of the body. We get to a point where we struggle to utilize the protein in our food for growth, maintenance, and building muscle. Both digestive and metabolic enzyme supplementation has been the focus of providing some of what the body may be missing to overcome this issue. Adding a highly absorbable protein source, like a protein powder drink, within fifteen to twenty minutes after your exercise can give the body the nutrients needed to fuel repair, recovery, and growth. Protein powders are not just for body builders.
DISCLAIMER: When you read through the diet and lifestyle information, you must know that everything within it is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. I am making no attempt to prescribe any medical treatment. You should not use the information here for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. The products and the claims made about specific products have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Confirm the safety of any supplements with your M.D., N.D. or pharmacist (healthcare professional). Some information given is solely an opinion, thought and or conclusion based on experiences, trials, tests, assessments or other available sources of information. I do not make any guarantees or promises with regard to results. I may discuss substances that have not been subject to double blind clinical studies or FDA approval or regulation. You assume the responsibility for the decision to take any natural remedy. You and only you are responsible if you choose to do anything with the information you have read. You do so at your own risk. Use your intelligence to make the decisions that are right for you. Consulting a naturopathic doctor is strongly advised especially if you have any existing disease or condition.

Debra Meszaros

As we age our bodies biochemistry changes. After the age of twenty, our body begins to manufacture less enzymes with each passing year; enzymes desperately

Feeding your muscles

Stress whether in the form of mental, emotional, or physical, creates a higher demand from your body for some key nutrients, primarily the ones fueling your adrenals: Vitamin C and most of your vitamin Bs. With adequate supply of these nutrients, the body has an easier time dealing with stress. For many, incorporating these into your supplementation program has its benefits, so you may want to explore this option. Lastly, both yoga and meditation are two anti-stress forms of exercise that can contribute greatly to anyones anti-aging program. So, take your health into your own hands, stay active, feed your body, and manage your stress. Its easier than you think. You can build a new you through a healthy routine.

Managing stress

is a Certified Sports Nutritionist and Biofeedback practitioner with further educational studies in Naturopathy, H o m e o p a t h y, Or thomolecular Nutrition and additionally holds fourteen U.S. patents. Through her extensive health education, and experience of 20-plus years in cellular biology, she has developed an all-encompassing Holistic health service that allows individuals to discover their biochemical uniqueness, allowing them to fine tune their health. The basis of her service is to facilitate access to information that will help your understanding of health processes and elements that are within your area of control. Her services are available in Maryland, Virginia and South Carolina. She can be reached at (540) 622 4989 Monday through Friday.

Daily Activities Can Burn Calories

Some people think they have to spend hours at the gym sweating on the treadmill or elliptical trainer in order to burn calories and lose weight. As it turns out, the things you do every single day could be burning more calories than you realized. Some discipline with your diet and certain healthy habits can make the difference for those attempting to lose weight. Getting eight hours of sleep can burn more than 300 calories for the average person. But there's a good chance you are interested in what activities you can do while awake to help burn calories. Courtesy of Discovery Health and Harvard Medical School, here are common everyday activities and how many calories can be burned depending on weight. These figures are based on a person weighing around 150 pounds and a duration of one hour of activity. Supermarket shopping: Pushing a wagon around the supermarket for an hour can burn 240 calories or more. Up the ante by bagging groceries yourself and packing and unpacking them from the car. Raking leaves: If you spent time manually raking leaves this past fall, you were doing something good for your body. In addition to working several muscle groups, you may have spent 300 calories. Dusting: Spring cleaning is right around the corner, and that can be good news for your health. Dusting alone can burn as much as 160 calories. Cooking: Here's a reason to get fired up about cooking. Making a simple meal can add up to 200 calories lost. Just don't sabotage those lost calories by cooking up a fattening dinner. Moving: Packing and moving may seem like a big task one rarely looks forward to, but carrying boxes can burn 460 calories an hour. Packing, moving and unpacking yourself may be the diet plan you've been seeking.

Cleaning rain gutters can burn 372 calories in one hour.

Painting: Perhaps you've been procrastinating on that house painting project. Here's inspiration to break out the rollers and brushes. Spending an hour painting can burn 350 calories. After several hours applying a primer and then top coat, you may find you painted yourself thinner. Community service: If you want to help the environ-

ment and your health, spending time picking up trash from a park or seaside can shed some serious calories -- 450 an hour. Playing with kids: Engaging in some fun family time can burn around 400 calories. Plus, it's a great way for parents and children to bond.

The Calvert Gazette

Thursday, December 8, 2011

18

The Calvert Gazette is always looking for more local talent to feature! To submit art or band information for our entertainment section, e-mail sarahmiller@countytimes.net.

Synergy Gains Momentum in Southern Maryland Music Scene

By Carrie Munn Staff Writer Charlotte Hall resident Robert Smith is a die-hard drummer. He has performed across the nation and the world as a member of the military for 15 years and said hes been drumming every chance hes gotten since the fifth grade. When not playing in the Air Force Band, hes the beat-man and driving force behind Southern Marylands Synergy, a variety band of five seasoned musicians. Smith explained the name of the band says a lot, as synergy is defined as, The interaction of two or more agents or forces so that their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects. Forming up originally as Lockedn-loaded, the group started anew in 2011, selecting a new name that represented the efforts of Bobby Thomas, formerly of the well-known local band Hot Ice, who plays keyboards, rhythm guitar and sings; lead guitarist George Gillum; bassist Bruce Tyler and female vocalist Julia Oberti, all who previously made a name as Captain Woody, and drummer Smith. Synergys members have decades of collective musical experience and have shared the stage with popular local groups like The Sam Grow Band, No Green JellyBeanz and Hate the Toy. Playing a wide-reaching variety of songs, from classic rock tunes to a rap and soul dance medley, Smith said the five players each bring different musical influences and tastes to the group. The band members can also learn new material quickly and like to give a lively show, with one song leading right into another without a lot of dead air, Smith said. Synergys rendition of the Santana jam song, Black Magic Woman, showed off the bands chops during a show the day after Thanksgiving at Toots Bar in Hollywood. From mellow grooves to a hard-hitting cover of Drowning Pools Bodies, the band offered something to suit a plethora of tastes. Obertis raspy, rocker-chick voice sounded spot on during the Joan Jett and 4 Non-Blondes songs, while Thomas showed an adaptive vocal range able to carry the rock ballad, the heavy metal intensity and a James Brown-esque funk mash-up. Several of the band members sing backing vocals and play multiple instruments through a Synergy performance, including Smith who, while drumming, also controls the bands in-ear monitors and light show. If I could just have a computer going, booking the next weeks gigs he joked.

The father of three said he manages the band and handles marketing and booking tenaciously with the support of his wife of 16 years. Weve been blessed and lucky that weve been steadily making a name for ourselves seeing the crowds at our shows grow and are excited to have already booked Veras, Hotel Charles and Gilligans Pier for the upcoming year, Smith said. With a tight, professional sound adaptable to the size of the venue, Synergy plays with no amps on stage, eliminating extra noise and working with a sound technician to ensure a high-quality sound. With a playlist based off of audience feedback what gets people singing along, dancing, or pumped up Synergy focuses on musicianship and keeping the crowd engaged. Synergy recently picked up the sponsorship of Bully Bling Energy Drink, whose promotional help, along with Facebook networking and Smiths pavement pounding, have led to the band playing all over the tricounty area and beyond. Band t-shirts will come out at Synergys Dec. 10 show at Hotel Charles with the Sam Grow Band and will celebrate their official first birthday as a band at Lisas Pub in Indian Head this New Years Eve. The group also plays private parties and special events and can be reached for booking details at SynergyBand@ymail.com. Its a busy life, Smith said, But totally worth it. carriemunn@countytimes.net

19

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Calvert Gazette

Calvert County Events December 2011

Tens of thousands of holiday lights twinkle in Chesapeake Beach to make it the Brightest Beacon on the Bay. Take the family and ride through Chesapeake Beach to enjoy holiday lights displayed until the week after the New Year. (www.chesapeake-beach.md.us) Make a stop at Tans Cycles to visit their free Holiday Train Garden. The train garden is on a 20 X 20 platform with five levels, 30 trains, seven super streets, a carnival, waterfall, construction site, disappearing trains, tunnels, bridges and much more. The Holiday Train Display begins November 25 and runs through January 14, weekdays 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays noon to 5 p.m.; special times on Dec. 24 and 31 (noon to 5 p.m.) and Dec. 27 thru 30 (noon to 8 p.m.). Tans is at 9032 Chesapeake Avenue, North Beach. For more information, call 410-257-6619. Looking for unique holiday gifts? Come to the Northern High School annual Holiday Craft Fair on Saturday, Dec. 10, at the schools campus, 2950 Chaneyville Road, Owings, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Local vendors will showcase unique gifts and crafts. The event benefits the Northern High School Music Boosters. The Calvert Artists Guild members will hold a meeting in the art room at Calvert Pines Senior Center, 450 West Dares Beach Road, Prince Frederick, on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 10 a.m. After CAG board member elections, Gerry Wood will provide a water color demonstration. Members are asked to bring finger foods (no cutting required) to share. Free to the public. For additional information, contact Lonnie Harkins at 410-326-7199, baronvansmoogle@ netscape.net or Gerry Wood at gbwood2@verizon.net, 301-863-7199.

Out&About
focus on Lost Landmarks and the bones of the past hidden around us. Learn to look with new eyes at places you pass every day and understand how the past informs our lives today. Thursday, December 15, features Laura Trieschmann discussing how the country store played a major role as both a commercial and social center. The talks begin at 7 p.m. in the museum auditorium and are free. For more information about the 2011-2012 PEM Talks Series, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com. Dunkirk Baptist Church will host our annual Christmas Shoppe Elf Xtravaganza for the needy from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17. Please Call Dave Walton to register, volunteer or make donations: 301-775-6241 Dunkirk Baptist Church invites you to join us at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 18 for our Christmas Cantata Worship Service. For more information call: 301-855-3555 or click: www. dunkirkbaptistchurch.org The Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum invites you to share in a holiday tradition as their conductors read a classic childrens Christmas story, The Polar Express, on Thursday, December 22, at 6 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. After each reading there will be a tour of Chesapeake Beach on the Holiday Trolley. Space is limited and reservations are required. Learn more about this event at www.cbrm.org or call the museum at 410-257-3892. You may reserve your space online at http://www.planetreg.com/ E101111521898. Looking for things to do with the family during the holidays? The Calvert Marine Museum offers programs throughout the school holiday. Each day from December 26 through December 30 you can discover interesting facts about sea life. Did you know horseshoe crabs have been around since dinosaurs? What good are jellyfish? On Friday, December 30, visit the Discovery Room for a hands-on lesson about the different kinds of turtles that can be found in our area. On Monday, January 2, kids can

The Lusby Business Association presents the Lusby Town Centers tree lighting on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Bank of America. Santa Claus will arrive in grand style courtesy of the Solomons Fire Department and kick off the holiday season with the official tree lighting. Other activities include live music, pictures with Santa Claus and local business giveaways. The event is free and open to the public. www.shoplusby. com Saturday, Dec. 10, join the Town of North Beach and the North Beach Business Loop for an evening of holiday shopping, caroling and cheer. Beginning at dusk, the streets will be lined with candles and businesses will be open late with specials, holiday refreshments and more. Sing along with local carolers and let the holiday spirit take over. See you at the beach! For more information, visit www.northbeachmd.org. On weekends through Dec. 11, the Twin Beach Players will present A Christmas Carol at the North Beach Firehouse banquet hall. This all-childrens musical performed by the Twin Beach Players Youth Troupe will put you in the holiday spirit. The Twin Beach Players Youth Troupe includes students in the first through 12th grades who are interested in learning all aspects of the theater, from acting to working as stage manager. Friday and Saturday the show begins at 7 p.m.; Sunday matinees are at 3 p.m. For more information, visit online: www.twinbeachplayers.com. On Sunday, Dec. 11, Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church will host the 10th annual TUBACHRISTMAS concert at 4 p.m. Local musicians look forward to this unique holiday celebration. All low brass players in the local area are welcomed to play in the group. TUBACHRISTMAS features traditional Christmas carols arranged for tuba and baritone horn players. The performance is open to the public and free. www.tubachristmas.com.

Surround yourself with one-of-a-kind, handmade creations at Annmarie Gardens annual Garden in Lights. Mythical creatures, spectacular wild animals, illuminated works of art, hidden beasts, romantic dancers and more will delight all ages. Dont forget to ask for a holiday I spy program. After your walk, enjoy a hot drink, entertainment, the Ornament Show and the Celebrations Glass Exhibit in the Arts Building. Garden in Lights runs through January 1, 2012. Check the website for more information: www.annmariegarden.org. The American Chestnut Land Trust (ACLT) will host a Greens Sale Prep Day and Wreath Making Workshop on Friday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For $25 you will make at least two wreaths, one to take home and one for donation to the annual Greens Sale. If you donate both wreaths, you can join them for free! Lunch is provided and registration is required. Contact the office at 410-414-3400 or visit online, www.acltweb.org. All proceeds from the sale go to Parkers Creek Preserve managed by the American Chestnut Land Trust. The frost is on the pumpkin and Christmas is around the corner. All Saints Church will hold their annual Christmas Market on Saturday, Dec. 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Craftspeople will help with all your Christmas shopping. To add to the holiday spirit you will find baked goods, hot chocolate and glhwein. Lunch will be available. Rain, snow or shine, of course! For more information, call 410-257-6306 or visit www.allsaints1692.org.

Looking for a traditional wreath for your door? Attend the Greens Sale & Beach Hayride at the Parkers Creek Preserve managed by the American Chestnut Land Trust on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. 2 p.m. Purchase freshcut decorative evergreens, drink hot cider and take the family on a beach hayride. The greens sale benefits the Warriors Rest Sanctuary. For more information, visit www.acltweb.org. Discover downtown Prince Frederick on Saturday, Dec. 10, at Artwalk. Enjoy shopping, great food, art and music as you explore stores, galleries and nonprofit organizations along Main Street, Duke Street and in the Prince Frederick Shopping Center from noon to 5 p.m. Participating businesses will offer donated art, coupons and gifts for a $1 raffle ticket drawing at each business. Artwalk attendees can visit each business on the map and buy as many raffle tickets as they wish, putting the ticket in specially wrapped raffle gift boxes located next to the items of their choice. Raffle proceeds benefit Safe Harbor. Drawings will be held at 4:30 p.m. at each business. Winners will be notified the following week. For more information on participating businesses and to download a map, visit www.artwalkprincefrederick.com.

Trinity United Methodist Churchs Chancel Choir will present their annual cantata Sunday, Dec. 11 at the 9:30 and 11 a.m. worship services. This years performance is the Christmas favoriteHandels Messiah. The cantata is free and open to the public. Make plans to attend this beautiful performance. For more information, visit www.trinityumchurch.org. Enjoy PEM Talks at the Calvert Marine Museum with thoughtful discourse on paleontology, the environment and maritime history, the three themes covered by the museums exhibits. The 2011-2012 PEM Talks

take special tours of the Drum Point Lighthouse and learn what life was like for children stationed at the lighthouse with their families. Check the Calvert Marine Museum website, www.calvertmarinemuseum.com, for complete listings and registration information. All programs are free with museum admission. Start off your New Year with an invigorating swim in the Chesapeake Bay! Join the crowd at North Beach as they run across the beach into the chilly waters for the annual Polar Bear Plunge. After, everyone will warm up beside a large beach bonfire and enjoy a hot drink. It is great fun for all ages both to participate and to watch! The fun starts at 1 p.m. at the beach located at the intersection of 5th Street and Bay Avenue. (www.ci.north-beach.md.us)

Shop Local

LUSBY TOWN SQUARE

Holiday Open Houses & Customer Appreciation Days

Michelangelos Hair Salon & Day Spa: December 7th 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Special Rates on Sunkissed Tanning: December 10th 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Memberships Express Fitness of Lusby: December 10th 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. & Tanning
Refreshments, Food