2011 08 04 Socg

August, 2011
Priceless
Gazette
Everything Solomons, Lusby,
Dowell, and St. Leonard
Southern Calvert
Photo by Frank Marquart
One Of a Kind find
after a Quarter Century, SharK
tOOth Guy a LOCaL LandmarK
Thursday, August-2011 2
entertainment
RU Calverts Next idol winners for 2011 are, from left, Niki Elliott of Broomes Island, Kaitlin
Harbin of Port Republic and Georgia Gillett of Huntingtown.
Snoopy, played by Bradley Silvestro, hunts down the Red Baron in the latest New-
town Players production, Youre a Good Man, Charlie Brown. The play runs
through Aug. 14 at Three Notch Theatre.
Also Inside
On T he Cover
3 Local News
8 Community
12 Obituaries
14 Education
15 Letters
16 On Water
17 Out & About
18 History
19 Cover Story
20 Locals
22 Defense
23 Entertainment
Cameron Stanley, an 11-year-old inter-
mediate class racer, turns hard out of turn
one at SOMD BMX track in Chaptico.
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Day High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time % Moon
/Low Time Feet Sunset Visibl
F 12 High 1:50 AM 2.0 6:18 AM Set 5:07 AM 96
12 Low 8:44 AM 0.4 8:04 PM Rise 7:15 PM
12 High 1:49 PM 1.4
12 Low 7:51 PM 0.3
Sa 13 High 2:33 AM 1.9 6:18 AM Set 6:09 AM 99
13 Low 9:21 AM 0.4 8:03 PM Rise 7:45 PM
13 High 2:39 PM 1.5
13 Low 8:41 PM 0.4
Su 14 High 3:10 AM 1.9 6:19 AM Set 7:10 AM 99
14 Low 9:53 AM 0.4 8:01 PM Rise 8:13 PM
14 High 3:25 PM 1.5
14 Low 9:27 PM 0.4
Day High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time % Moon
/Low Time Feet Sunset Visibl
F 5 Low 1:42 AM 0.5 6:11 AM Rise 1:02 PM 32
5 High 6:47 AM 1.5 8:12 PM Set 11:32 PM
5 Low 1:07 PM 0.1
5 High 7:58 PM 2.0
Sa 6 Low 2:59 AM 0.5 6:12 AM Rise 2:12 PM 43
6 High 7:42 AM 1.4 8:11 PM
6 Low 1:56 PM 0.1
6 High 9:00 PM 2.0
Su 7 Low 4:14 AM 0.5 6:13 AM Set 12:15 AM 54
7 High 8:42 AM 1.3 8:10 PM Rise 3:18 PM
7 Low 2:50 PM 0.2
7 High 10:04 PM 2.0
August 5-7 2011
August 12-13 2011
William Douglass has served Calvert County for 24 years
from his small nook on Southbound Rt. 4.
out & about
FOR EVENTS HAPPENING IN
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IN OUT AND ABOUT
community
LOCAL
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A St. Marys College of Maryland
professor says that the state Republican
partys proposed map for congressional
districts is the answer to a decade of rank
gerrymandering on the part of Democrat
power brokers and cynical political ma-
neuvering that has prevented fair and bal-
anced representation of all state residents.
Also, he said the Republican plan will
be completely ignored.
Eberly, who works at a school known
for liberal political thought, penned his ar-
ticle saying that Democrats have done an
excellent job of gerrymandering the entire
state, essentially making a 57 percent voter
majority into a 75 percent congressional
delegation.
Maryland is home to some of the
most gerrymandered congressional districts in the country
districts that have harmed Democratic and unaffliated
voters as much as they have Republicans, Eberly wrote.
The GOP plan, he said, respects communities and
county boundaries more and creates clean, compact dis-
tricts. But, because it is fair it has no chance of success, be-
cause it will not produce the desired seven-to-one congres-
sional ratio Democrats want.
The ratio currently stands at six-to-two with represen-
tative Andy Harris in the First Congressional District and
long-time offce holder Roscoe Bartlett in the Sixth District.
Eberly believes that there is a battle brewing between
House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer and fourth district Rep.
Donna Edwards over which GOP offcial will the targeted
by redistricting.
Hoyer wants Democrat Frank Kratovil back in his old
post because of a good working relationship, Eberly said,
while Edwards wants the process to focus on Bartlett being
forced out.
The Edwards forces are win-
ning, thats what Im hearing, Eb-
erly told The County Times.
Eberly said it was in Republi-
cans interest politically and tacti-
cally to come up with a fair plan
to map out districts for the next
decade rather than one that was bla-
tantly partisan.
It doesnt surprise me. If
youre the minority party, what pur-
pose does it serve to bring forward
your own outrageous plan, Eberly
said. The smartest thing your can
do is step forward with something
thats fair. Its a heck of a lot better
than our current map.
Eberly said hes received e-
mails accusing him of trying to
subvert the process to prop up a
manufactured majority for the
GOP, but for a man who has written
articles in support of a failed same-
sex marriage bill for Maryland and
the controversial DREAM Act that
allows in-state tuition for illegal
immigrants, Eberly can hardly be
called a staunch conservative.
Im singling out a what I view
as an abuse of the process by the
[Democratic] party, Eberly said.
Gerrymandering produces an out-
come and it discourages participa-
tion by moderate voters.
David Willenborg, chairman
of the countys Republican Central
Committee, was surprised at Eberlys support for the GOP
plan.
I think hes spot on with a lot of what he said, Willen-
borg said. I hope [the redistricting process] done in a way
that provides fair representation for Marylanders instead of
political games.
Joe Anderson, chair the Democratic Central Commit-
tee, said Eberly showed his partisan colors in his editorial,
but Anderson believed that both parties believed their ideas
were right for Maryland.
Each think their goals and philosophies are what
people need, Anderson said. Our goals are well meaning,
but the process isnt so altruistic.
He said it would be nave to think Republicans would
not use redistricting to keep and expand their power if they
were in the Democrats place.
If the shoe was on the other foot Republicans would
be doing the same thing, Anderson said. By Guy Leonard (CT)
guyleonard@countytimes.net
Local Professor Lauds GOP District Plan
Shortly after 10 a.m. July 25, units from the Calvert
County Sheriffs Offce including the Crash Reconstruc-
tion Team responded to the 100 block of Dalrymple Road
just off Rt. 2 in Huntingtown for the report of vehicle
crash.
Upon arrival units found a 1990 Acura Legend down
an embankment resting against a tree with air bags de-
ployed. The driver, who was the single occupant, was
seated behind the wheel unconscious.
Units from the Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Depart-
ment responded and transported the driver, later identi-
fed as Kevin Eugene Holland, 54 of Prince Frederick,
to Calvert Memorial Hospital where he was later pro-
nounced dead.
Preliminary investigation has determined that Hol-
land was traveling east on Dalrymple Road when his
1990 Acura left the roadway for an unknown reason. The
vehicle sideswiped a small pine tree and continued north-
east across a front yard. The vehicle then struck a small
embankment and became airborne for about 30 feet, trav-
eled down a hill and through some trees for approximate-
ly 96 feet in a northeasterly direction. Once at the bottom
of the hill the vehicle struck another tree and came to rest.
It is believed that Holland may have suffered some
type of medical emergency causing him to lose control of
the vehicle and run off the roadway, police say. Cpl. G.
Shrawder is handling the investigation and can be con-
tacted at 410-535-2800 or shrawdgm@co.cal.md.us.
Man Killed In Single-
Vehicle Crash
LOCAL
NEWS
c
c
ommissioners
o
r
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e
r
At 7:51 p.m., July 23, members of the Calvert County Sheriffs Offce respond-
ed to the scene of a single vehicle crash on Cox Road in Huntingtown about a tenth
of mile in off Rt. 4.
Jonathan R. Smither, 34 of St. Leonard, had been operating a 2001 Harley
Davidson Springer motorcycle and failed to negotiate a left turn. The motorcycle
left the roadway to the right and rolled over four times. Smither was ejected and
came to rest adjacent to the bike. Smither was wearing a helmet that came off dur-
ing the crash.
Members of the Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Department transported him to
Calvert Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Cpl. A. Moschetto of the Crash Reconstruction Team is investigating the crash.
By Susan Shaw
President, Calvert County
Board of Commissioners
One of the roles of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is to issue
proclamations.
The purpose of a proclamation is to recognize a cause, an achievement, a mile-
stone, or as a tribute. Usually, a few are presented each BOCC meeting on camera
to further a cause or to recognize a major achievement. Many more are picked
up for events. Some are presented by Commissioners at various venues. For ex-
ample, a proclamation is prepared and given to every young man who achieves
the rank of Eagle Scout and every young woman who earns her Girl Scout Gold
Award. These are presented at the award ceremony by a Commissioner because
they represent a major milestone for the awardees as well as requiring stamina,
dedication, planning, organization and leadership to achieve. Each Scout awardee
has completed a community service project that enhances our community for years
to come. They include making handicapped accessible trails, building stairs and
ramps, making tables for Hospice, creating an animal viewing shelter, creating a
sports camp, teaching children a skill, and many more. Virtually every non-proft
in Calvert County has beneftted from the largess of an Eagle or Gold project. The
proclamations also mark change in the lives of the young men and women who earn
them, a turning point.
Speaking of change, I have recently presented proclamations that represent ma-
jor milestones. Two of us delivered one in honor of the 66th wedding anniversary
of Raymond and Elizabeth Lankford, long-time community builders in Solomons.
Commissioners Weems, Nutter, and I presented one to Douglas Weems upon his re-
tirement from the Health Department after 36 years of government service to some
of the most vulnerable among us. I just presented one to Gary Anderson marking
his retirement as Director of the Calvert County Department of Social Services for
46 years as a professional social worker serving frst a military family population
then a community population needing vital services. His retirement represents a
change to teaching and writing more. Donna Millars retirement from the Depart-
ment of Juvenile Justice will be recognized soon. What a change agent she has been
in the lives of many, many young persons and their families over a long career! All
of the Commissioners participate in these ceremonies that recognize transitions.
Each of these opportunities to honor causes, with the Relay for Life standing
out as a recent example; achievements of both a personal nature or an organization-
al nature, such as the Leading Edge Awards that recognized a number of Calvert
County businesses this year as the best in the region; milestones like retirements
and 100 year birthdays: or tributes, such as the one to Ethan Jacob McComb of
Chesapeake Beach for being the frst student in Maryland in 38 years to win the
National History Fair signal a change.
The transitions are often bittersweet as familiarity and friends are left for
hoped-for unknowns. Change, even good change, is challenging. While it is a
joy for we Commissioners to recognize our local heroes, some change comes with
controversy, apprehension, and confict.
More on that kind of change will be in my next column on Aug. 18.
We Proclaim
Motorcyclist Killed
The Southern Maryland Chapter offce
of the American Red Cross in La Plata will be
closed as of Sept. 2.
The decision to close the offce and con-
solidate it with the one in Baltimore is the result
of national cutbacks across the American Red
Cross nationwide, according to Regional Com-
munications Offcer Doug Lent.
Lent said the consolidation of operations to
the Baltimore offce will allow for more money
to be used for training volunteers and disaster
relief.
The Red Cross has been operating at a
defcit for a long time, Lent said.
La Plata offce CEO Mike Zabko said the
Red Cross has been working on the consolida-
tion for the past three years, but it still came as
something of a surprise when he found out the
La Plata offce would be closing down.
He said to get a clear picture of the effec-
tiveness of the Red Cross actions and how ev-
erything will function within the restructuring
will take three to four years of observing the
program as it works and is tweaked.
He said the Red Cross volunteers in South-
ern Maryland will still be in place, and the emer-
gency operations will not stop. The Red Cross
has provided disaster relief for more than 100
years and will continue to do so.
The closing of the offce in La Plata will
mean the elimination of the three people work-
ing there, though other jobs in the Red Cross will
be open to them if they are available, Lent said.
While the La Plata offce is the only one in
Maryland that will be closed, the rest will see
staff cutbacks. Instead of having multiple re-
gions throughout Maryland, the entire state will
be condensed into the Chesapeake Region. All
the resources in Maryland will be pooled togeth-
er, including money and volunteers.
Lent said the disaster relief in the state,
which was invaluable after the tornado that hit
La Plata, will still be deployed whenever and
wherever needed, with volunteers acting as the
coordinators.
Its still local people, Lent said.
Disaster relief isnt the only service the Red
Cross offers, Lent said. Another service is help-
ing civilians get in touch with soldiers overseas
with news of births, deaths or other emergencies.
That is another service that will continue to be
provided to Southern Maryland residents.
Services will still be provided, just in a
different manner, Zabko said. By Sarah Miller (CT)
sarahmiller@countytimes.net
Southern Maryland Red
Cross Ofce to Close
Teens in Calvert County using DriveCam,
a two piece camera that observes the vehicles
interior as well as the road ahead, have a lower
accident rate as compared to their peers.
A recent study conducted in Southern
Maryland showed that teens using DriveCam are
also less likely to drive unsafely, including after
the camera is removed from the vehicle.
Also, teenagers in the study chose to wear
their seatbelts more often.
In fact, the large number of teens that elect-
ed to wear their seatbelts was surprising, Drive-
Cam program representative Jacqueline Milani
said.
Although there are fewer accidents in
Southern Maryland as compared to other cit-
ies and regions, there is an over-representation
of teens involved in incidents in Calvert and St.
Marys County.
Installing DriveCam into the vehicles al-
lows parents to review their teens actions leading
up to and shortly after an incident. They can also
monitor their kids driving tendencies and help
them improve their driving habits.
According to DriveCam program Repre-
sentative Cindy Burch, teens using DriveCam
know they are being watched and so they pay
better attention to the road.
The point (of the cameras) is to ease teens
into the driving environment, Burch said.
The study was able to conclude some of the
major causations of teen accidents.
Of the teens involved in the program, 93
percent of the incidents recorded were due to un-
safe speeds.
Four percent of all driver distraction events
were due to cell phone use, and 9 percent oc-
curred because drivers had their music too loud
to be able to focus.
Seventy-six percent of all driver action inci-
dents were a result of cutting corners too sharp,
wide, or fast.
DriveCam cameras only became active af-
ter an event.
An event, defned as a sudden change
in either horizontal or vertical g-force at .5 Gs,
triggers the camera and records the seconds just
before and after the incident.
Parents and researchers then review the
footage to see if the teenager was being care-
less and how they handled the aftermath of the
situation.
The recently concluded study, which began
in 2008, went through six phases. Participant in-
terviews were conducted to determine if an indi-
vidual was a high or low risk.
Participants then were put into categories
and observed.
Overall, the study showed that after being
under the watchful eye of the camera, teens were
less likely to have an event than they were before.
Even after monitoring stopped, teens were driv-
ing safer and had less incidents.
The study also validated the belief that par-
ents involvement with their teen driver is crucial
to their safety, Burch said.
A parental and new driver survey was con-
ducted as part of the testing.
Parent answers were similar to child an-
swers in the survey totals for each category,
showing a correlation between parent and child
driving behavior.
Participants believe this study and the con-
tinued use of DriveCam are valuable tools in pro-
moting teenager safety.
Sixty-three percent of the respondents be-
lieve that DriveCam infuences teenager driving
behavior.
It reinforced what we taught our child. He
knew that if he drove poorly it would come back
to us and it did, One parent said.
All the projects research fnances were pro-
vided by federal grant funds.
Interested parents can visit Drivecam.com
for more information. By Alex Panos (SCG) info@som-
dpublishing.net
Study Shows Teens Drive
Safer With DriveCam
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Federal regulators found gaps in the security measures at Calvert Cliffs Nuclear
Power Plant after a six-month inspection at the twin reactor site in Lusby, though the
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) will not release the specifc details of the
issues.
Neil Sheehan, spokesman for the NRC, said that a letter from a nuclear reactor
safety regulator to Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, which owns and operates
the site, informs the public of the issue in basic terms only.
Because this involves security theres not much detail, Sheehan said of the
public announcement. That goes back to 9/11.
Sheehan said that the NRC decided to withdraw more sensitive information that
would have been made available after the terrorist attacks 10 years ago for fear that
such information could be used to exploit such a sensitive target.
Sheehan said that the security issue was listed as greater than green which is
the lowest of the four security fndings on NRCs color-coded scale.
After green comes white, yellow and then red, being the most serious, he said.
Sheehan said that NRC regulators were confdent in their fndings but that Con-
stellation offcials have the right to contest the fnding before a fnal ruling is made.
We engaged the company on that and we expect them to fx it, Sheehan said,
adding that the fault was corrected by the plant staff before the inspection team left.
The entire inspection lasted from Jan. 26 to July 13, according to an email from
Sheehan.
Because the fnding is a preliminary one, Sheehan said, no actual violation has
been issued, though if the fnding is fnalized into an offcial violation of security it
would mean more oversight and scrutiny at the plant from the NRC.
A letter from Christopher G. Miller, director of the NRCs Division of Reactor
Safety, stated that the single fnding of the security fault had to do with plant man-
agements inability to get employees to follow all the proper procedures.
The fnding has a cross-cutting aspect in the area of human performance for
failing to effectively communicate expectations regarding procedural compliance
and personnel following procedures, Miller wrote in a letter dated July 26. By Guy
Leonard (CT) guyleonard@countytimes.net
Security Faulted at
Calvert Clifs Plant
The Board of County Commissioners last week voted to have county staff
pull together a task force to study what is believed to be the burgeoning popula-
tion of deer in the county and how best to deal with them.
Commissioners heard from George Timko, a deer specialist with the Mary-
land Department of Natural Resources (DNR) who said that only a very rough
estimate of the deer population in Calvert was available, which fgured out to
about 7,500 for the whole county given an estimated 35 per square mile.
But I wouldnt hang my hat on that, Timko said, adding that a lack of
statistics and manpower to gather information hampered the efforts.
Commissioner President Susan Shaw (R-Owings) said that the presentation
by wildlife specialists came at her behest because of county governments inun-
dation by citizen complaints over the damage that deer have caused to farmers
crops and residential property as well as collisions with motor vehicles.
According to the presentation there were 259 reported motor vehicle deer
strikes from 2010 to 2011, while 1,811 were killed through hunting 75 deer
were harvested by farmers with special permits to curb crop damage.
The main management besides hunting is vehicle collisions and wed like
to reduce those, Shaw said. I hit three last year and with all of them I was
going very slow.
Did any of them survive? I dont know.
Some options that are technically available to wildlife managers are moving
the deer population to another area, application of birth control and reintroduc-
tion of predators like wolves and mountain lions, but none of them are practical
or even safe, Timko said.
Birth control took too long to affect the deer population, he said, while there
was no available space to move deer to, and even if they did deer, being home-
bodies, would try to fnd their way back.
And predators would be dangerous not only to livestock but to humans as
well, Timko said.
Managed hunts and other methods that including using police sharpshoot-
ers to harvest dear using precision rifes in more built up areas were among the
most practical management methods.
But hunting deer to a manageable population is diffcult as well, he said
because there are fewer hunters to do the job.
Our [hunter] population is aging and declining, Timko said. By Guy Leon-
ard (CT) guyleonard@countytimes.net
County to Develop Deer
Management Plan
Calvert County and the
rest of the Western Shore of
Maryland are now under a
quarantine that forbids the
transportation of ash hard-
wood outside the restricted
zone in an effort to combat
the spread of the emerald ash
borer (EAB), an insect that
the Maryland Department
of Agriculture (MDA) has
deemed highly destructive.
It kills ash trees in three
years, said Vanessa Orlan-
do, spokeswoman for MDA.
MDA offcials believe
that the pest came into the
country from Asia in infected nursery stock
that was frst detected in Michigan. It was frst
identifed in Prince Georges County in 2003
and then in Charles County in 2008 after be-
ing illegally shipped into the state.
The insect has since been found in How-
ard, Allegany and Anne Arundel counties
and offcials fear its spread from the Western
shore to other parts of Maryland.
The ash tree is one of the most common
landscaping trees on the Western Shore, Or-
lando said, and the pest can often escape de-
tection until its too late.
Once the tree is cut you cant tell the bug
is in it, she told The Southern Calvert Ga-
zette. You cant move hardwood out of the
quarantine area.
Burn it where you bought it has been
one of our messages, she said.
Signs of infestation include the upper
third of a tree dying and withering away and
then shoots and branches coming through the
dying portion of the tree, according to infor-
mation from MDA.
Other signs include D-shaped exit holes
made by adult pests, vertical splits in the bark
and tunnels snaking through the cambium
layer of the tree which effectively cuts off
nutrients and water to the tree, causing it to
starve.
We believe placing a quarantine on
Maryland counties west of the Susquehanna
River and the Chesapeake Bay is the best way
to secure [the] Eastern Shore were EAB has
not been found to date and protect our ripar-
ian forest buffer plantings, said state Secre-
tary of Agriculture Buddy Hance in prepared
statement. We will continue to work with our
federal, state and local partners however
we rely on upon cooperation from the com-
munity to follow the quarantine restrictions,
not move frewood and to report signs of pos-
sible infestation. By Guy Leonard (CT) guyleon-
ard@countytimes.net
Quarantine for Tree-Destroying
Pest Now Covers Calvert
LOCAL
NEWS
Invasive Northern Snakeheads, predators near the top
of the aquatic food chain, are moving around this summer,
and showing up all over Southern Maryland.
The Chesapeake Current, a sister publication to The
County Times, has learned that a Snakehead was caught
recently in Mill Creek in Chesapeake Ranch Estates in
Lusby, not far from Lake Lariat, indicating migration into
the Patuxent River. Another one was caught last week in the
Rhode River in Southern Anne Arundel County.
A fsherman caught that Snakehead (in Lusby) in June
and reported it to us, so it was a positive Snakehead ID, said
Don Cosden, Assistant Fisheries Director for the Maryland
Department of Natural Resources in Annapolis. We dont
know if it was a male or female, but it was a mature adult
Snakehead. Another guy reported to us that hes sure he saw
another one in the area and almost caught it, but it got away.
Mill Creek is a tributary of the Patuxent River, so yes,
I believe they have now moved into the Patuxent River,
Cosden said. And theyre obviously in the Chesapeake
Bay, too.
Cosden says earlier this year, two adult Snakeheads
were caught at St. Jeromes Creek in St. Marys County,
halfway between the Potomac and the Patuxent. In the sec-
ond case, the owner of a small marina couldnt catch the
Snakehead, so he got his gun and shot it.
Theyre also now in the Anacostia River and were
hearing that some sport fshermen are hunting the Snake-
heads there with bows and arrows, Cosden adds.
In the murky waters of the Rhode River in Southern
Anne Arundel County, a team of researchers and summer
interns from the Smithsonian Environmental Research
Center (SERC) in Annapolis caught a Snakehead last week
while conducting routine research.
Native to China, the frst Northern Snakehead in
Maryland was reported in 2002 in a Crofton pond, approxi-
mately 20 miles east of Washington, D.C. That population
was eradicated, but the SERC says a separate introduction
occurred in the Potomac River in 2004, which led to the es-
tablishment of the Northern Snakehead in creeks and water-
ways in both Maryland and Virginia.
The Northern Snakehead is typically found in freshwa-
ter, although it can tolerate low salinity waters
The SERC says the Northern Snakehead can live up to
four days out of water if kept moist. This ability comes from
air chambers above their gills that act as a primitive lung.
Wikipedia says a Snakehead can travel on wet land for up
to a quarter of a mile by wiggling its body and crawling
with its fns.
They are top-level predators with the ability to consume
other fsh and animals up to one-third of their own body size.
Were hoping the ones in Calvert and Anne Arundel
were loners, Cosden says. By Diane Burr (CC) editor@chesapeakecur-
rent.com
Invasive Snakeheads Turning Up Locally
One way to beat this summers hot and humid days
is to sit inside the frigidly air-conditioned Calvert County
District building and watch traffc court. Its free, educa-
tional and often amusing.
Take for example the fve drivers pulled over and
cited for expired vehicle registration. The judge, aware of
everyones time, called all the similar traffc violations at
the same time and asked the parties to stand in front of
him. One by one he asked each person if they knew prior
to being pulled over that their registration was expired and
if they remedied the situation before coming to court. The
frst four said they did not know and they had fxed it.
Then the judge got to the ffth lady. She said she
knew and no she hadnt fxed it. The judge said, Im afraid
to ask. Where is your car now? She said in the parking lot.
She had to drive it to get to court, Jim Barton retold the
story of when he went with his son to traffc court.
Waldorf Attorney Anupa Mukhopadhyay agreed that
traffc court can be an interesting study on human nature.
The 10:30 docket is the must shows. You wont believe
some of the stories youll hear.
Everyday except for Tuesday, District Court One
holds two morning sessions for traffc violations. The frst
one starts at 9 a.m. These are minor violations, which do
not require a person to come to court. In fact, most people
chose to pay the fne and court costs without stepping foot
into the building.
Those who do want their day in court must now re-
quest a court date, according to Carolyn Kitchen, Clerk
of Calvert County District Court. As of January 1, 2011
drivers wanting to plead not guilty or hoping to obtain
point or fee waivers must send notice to Annapolis. Once
Annapolis receives the request a computer will compare
the schedules of the law enforcement offcers and assign
the court dates to the drivers.
The police requested the change so that they could
schedule their court dates and not have offcers sitting in
court, said Kitchen.
Prior to the change in the law, a law enforcement of-
fcer could sit in court even though none of those receiving
traffc violations intended to contest. Now if an offcer is
in court it is because the driver requested a court hearing.
The second session of the morning is for major viola-
tions such as driving while under the infuence, driving
without a license, driving on a suspended license, and
others.
Depending upon who is asked these sessions carry
such nicknames as must shows or jail-able offenses.
While the frst session tends to be between the ticket-
ing offcer and driver, the second session is between the
States Attorney and a defense attorney. In both, the judge
and clerk keep the paperwork moving quickly and eff-
ciently. The process is streamlined when the guilty driver
can pay his court costs and fnes or sign up for his commu-
nity service on the same foor as the courtroom.
While these sessions are open to the public, dont be
surprised if everyone from the bailiff to the judge asks
why you are there. Their experience is that most people
dont come to court for no apparent reason. But they are
gracious hosts once they know your interest in the judicial
system or the air-conditioning. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG)
info@somdpublishing.net
A Day in Court
Solomons VFD to Host End-
Of-Summer Party
For those looking for something to do at the end of the
summer, the Solomons Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire
Department is planning an End of the Summer Beach Bash
on Sept. 24.
Shirley Millette, the current treasurer for Solomons
Volunteer Fire Department (SVFD), said the idea for the
beach bash came about when they were looking for a new
fundraiser to raise money for a new fre truck.
The summer bash will go from noon to midnight, with
5 bands slated to be play all day, including the homegrown
Sam Grow Band, with special appearances by champion
speed boat Miss Geico and the Hillstrand Brothers from
Deadliest Catch.
The parry will coincide with the annual Solomons
Offshore Grand Prix Race on Sept. 23 through 25, making
for a full weekend of activities for individuals of all ages.
Its just been growing and growing, she said.
Other bands appearing at the party will include Syner-
gy, No Green Jel-
lyBeenz, Six Gun
South and Rusty
in the Middle.
The summer bash
will also include
multiple activities
for children and
adults, including
beach volleyball,
making it a fun
day for the whole
family, Millette
said.
This is gonna be a big deal, she said.
The summer bash will join the lineup of SVFD fund-
raisers, including corn hole tournaments, holiday carnivals
and country breakfasts.
Millette said the timing of the event was to prevent the
Hillstrand Brothers and Miss Geico from having to make
the trip to Calvert County twice.
Planning for the event, which began in May, hasnt
gone entirely smoothly, Millette said. There have been
problems with sponsorships, but they are working through
the problems. She said anybody interested in sponsoring
the event can contact her at 301-481-7560.
Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. For
more information, or to purchase tickets, call 301-481-7560
or visit www.svrsfd.org. By Sarah Miller (CT) sarahmiller@
countytimes.net
Photo by Stacey Killmaier
Community
301-855-0282 www.abigailsclassicalballet.com
Two Convenient Locations for Classes
North Beach and Annmarie Garden
Visit us on the web for a full listing of classes at each location
Registration for the
2011-2012 School Year
at Annmarie Garden
Aug 13th
10 am to 1 pm
Meet the Ballerinas
& Try on a Tutu
Aug 14th
1 pm to 3 pm
See the Youth
Performance Ensemble,
Meet the Ballerinas
& Try on a Tutu
Ofering Classes for
Students Aged 3 & up:
Classical Ballet - Vaganova Method Into to Ballet Pre-Ballet
Girl power dominated this years
third annual RU Calverts Next Idol com-
petition, and there were so many great
performances by 62 talented Calvert
County kids that choosing just one winner
in each age group was a diffcult task for
the judges.
Not only can these young people
sing, they can play, too. This years fock
tinkled the keyboard supplied for the
event, and many brought their own instru-
ments ranging from guitars, a ukulele to
even a harp!
The winners will not necessarily be
signed by a record label, but they did win
the opportunity to create a professional
demo recording at Garrett Music Acad-
emys studio in Owings and have a profes-
sional photo shoot.
This years Idols performed a range
of music. In the 8 to 10-year-old category,
Georgia Gillett of Huntingtown took the
prize singing Hallelujah. Kaitlin Harbin
of Port Republic belted out a version of
Dont Rain on My Parade that Barbara
Streisand would have been impressed by to
win the 11 to 14-year-old age group. Niki
Elliott of Broomes Island, who is on her
way to audition for American Idol, sang
Dog Days Are Over and won in the 15 to
17-year-old-category.
Fridays judges
were Cindy Voshell,
Charles Harris and
Tom Dahrens. Nashville producer Tom
Dahrens is also a music writer and has
produced dozens of artists in Nashville
and worked in the areas most prestigious
studios. Music videographer, Charles
Harris from Southern Maryland has
worked with many nationally known rap
artists such as P. Diddy and Lil Kim. Re-
cording artist, choir/theater director, and
long-time voice and choral music teacher,
Cindy Voshell completed the Friday pan-
el. On Saturday, the judges were Dahrens,
as well as Deanna Dove of North Beach
and Jerry McGaughran. McGaughran,
lifelong vocalist and brass musician, plays
with the Calvert Brass Consortium, Cal-
vert Dance Band and directs two choirs.
Dove is a local singer/songwriter gone
big. She performs from New Jersey to the
Caribbean and with four albums, gets ra-
dio playtime around the world.
All the judges repeatedly commented
on how impressed they were by the brav-
ery and talent the young people of Calvert
displayed.
If you missed the event, you can more
performances of all the competitors on
Calvert Librarys Flickr site, accessible
through calvert.lib.md.us.
Young Ladies Dominate Local Idol Competition
RU Calverts Next idol winners for 2011 are, from left, Niki Elliott of Broomes Island (15 to 17-year-old
category), Kaitlin Harbin of Port Republic (11 to 14-year-old category) and Georgia Gillett of Huntingtown
(8 to 10-year-old category). Behind the winners is organizer Nick Garrett.
Get ready to be wowed at the 30th an-
nual Cancer Crusade Celebration of Life
Gala, which coincides this year with the
Rod N Reels 65th anniversary.
Starting at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug.
4, the Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa
will host the 30th annual Gala at the Rod
N Reel Restaurant.
This year, organizers promise an even
greater night of food, entertainment and
surprises. Expect scrumptious local Ches-
apeake Bay seafood, and other inspired
cuisine, desserts, open bars, live music and
dancing inside and out under the stars on
the beautiful Chesapeake Bay waterfront.
Host Gerald Donovan says, This is a
spectacular, giant cocktail party which we
strive to improve upon in every aspect each
year. Our goals are to exceed everyones
expectations at each event and to eventu-
ally see cancer cured.
Having lost their father to cancer,
Gerald, the former Mayor of Chesapeake
Beach, and his brother, Fred, owners of the
Resort, began the Cancer Crusade Celebra-
tion of Life Gala in 1982 to celebrate life
and raise money for cancer research and
patient programs. That frst event raised
$5,300, and since then over $4 million has
been raised for the cause.
The Donovans, including Geralds
wife, Mary, host about 2,000
people each year at the Can-
cer Gala. Nearly half of the
money raised for the event
is generated through corpo-
rate sponsorships, and their
efforts to keep the event a
fnancial success have also
resulted in an increased
awareness for the American
Cancer Societys initiatives
in cancer prevention, early
detection, research, and pa-
tient programs and services.
Recently, the Donovans were hon-
ored with the American Cancer Societys
Award of Excellence for Income Develop-
ment for the South Atlantic Division.
The 30th Annual Cancer Crusade
Celebration of Life Gala is taking place
during the Chesapeake Beach Resort &
Spas 65th year of business, something the
Resort has been celebrating all year long
with special events, new restaurant menus
and unique hotel and Marina packages.
Starting in 1946 as the Rod N Reel
Restaurant and Marina, the Resort has
grown to become a premier waterfront des-
tination location for both land lovers and
boaters who want to have a quintessential
Chesapeake Bay experience.
Gerald Donovan adds, Having the
30th Gala during our landmark Anniver-
sary year makes this event that much more
of a celebration for us and our guests.
Honorary Co-Chairmen for this
years event are Doug Hill, Washingtons
most accurate and entertaining TV Weath-
er Forecaster who lives in Huntingtown,
and Monumental Sports & Entertainment
Founder and Chairman, Ted Leonsis.
Tickets are $150 per person at the
door. For more information, see www.
rodnreelcancergala.org. By Diane Burr (CC)
editor@chesapeakecurrent.com
Annual Cancer Gala Kicks Of Tonight
Community
w w w . c s m d . e d u
w w w. c s md. e du/A r t s
2 0 1 1 - 2 0 1 2 S e A S o n
CSM campuses are accessible to patrons
with disabilities. Audio description for
the visually impaired and sign language
interpretation for the hearing impaired are avail-
able with a minimum two-week advanced notice.
If you are interested in these services, please
contact the ADA coordinator at 301-934-7614.

V I S UA L A RT S
TheATRe AND DANCe
DINNeR TheATRe - ComeDy
LA PLAtA CAmPuS
Fine ArtS Center theAtre

Flaming Idiots
September 22 - 24 | 6:30 p.m.
September 29 - october 1 | 6:30 p.m.
$25 - adults
$20 - seniors/military with iD
$15 - youth (ages 12 and under)
CAUSe TheATRe
SoCiAL iSSueS | eAting DiSorDerS
ALL CAmPuSeS
not suitable for younger audiences
$5 - all seats
eat
october 13 - 15 | 8 p.m.
La Plata Campus, FA Building,
room 143
october 20 - 22, 8 p.m.
Leonardtown Campus, Building A,
Auditorium

october 28 - 29, 8 p.m.
Prince Frederick Campus, Flagship Building,
room 119
ChILDReNS TheATRe
LA PLAtA CAmPuS
youre a Good man, Charlie Brown
october 21 | 7 p.m.
october 22 | 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
$7 - adults/seniors
$5 - youth (high school and below)

FALL mUSICAL
LA PLAtA CAmPuS
Reunion
november 10 - 12, 17 - 19 | 8 p.m.
(reserved seating)
$15 - adults
$12 - seniors/military with iD/youth
(high school and below)
mUSIC
The Ward Virts Concert Series is presented by
Edward and Patricia Mehosky, St. Clair and
Mary Tweedie, Gerry Van De Velde,
and Rene Cunningham.
wARD VIRTS
CoNCeRT SeRIeS
PrinCe FreDeriCk CAmPuS,
FLAgShiP BuiLDing,
room 119

october 9 | 3 p.m.
november 13 | 3 p.m.
Free - no reservations needed
LA PLAtA CAmPuS

CSm music Faculty Showcase
november 4 | 8 p.m.
$5 - advance purchase
$7 - at the door
music Student honors Recital
December 8 | 2:30 p.m.
Free
Jazz ensemble Fall Concert
December 8 | 8 p.m.
$7 - at the door
Latin ensemble Concert with CSm Chorale
December 9 | 8 p.m.
$7 - at the door
tonY hungerForD
memoriAL
ART GALLERY
VISUAL ARTS

Gallery Presentations and Gallery Talks
Visit www.csmd.edu/Arts for schedule.
Shapeshifters and vampires, strewn
from the highlands of Scotland to New
York, inhabit the world detailed in Kendra
Leigh Castles books. The New York-born,
Leonardtown resident is preparing for her
next release in January Midnight Reck-
oning, the second in the Dark Dynasties
series.
Castle has been actively writing since
2005, though she said writing has been
a lifelong hobby for her. Since she was a
child, Castle has been an avid reader, and
decided to start writing to bring to life
scenes she wasnt seeing played out by her
favorite authors.
She said she decided to write her frst
book when she and her husband were liv-
ing in the Nevada desert. Having decided
there would be no better time than being
stuck in the middle of nowhere to fnally
buckle down and write, Castle said she f-
nally wrote her frst complete book.
As a reward to herself for fnishing
the book, Castle joined the Romance Writ-
ers of America, and began her quest for an
agent to publish her book. While the book
got no bites and several rejection letters,
Castle said the experience was priceless.
I dont think you learn how to write
a book until you write a book, she said.
While many of the rejection letters
she received were form letters, some were
more personalized and praised the voice
in her book and offered tips on improving
her writing, which is invaluable, she said.
Castle still has her frst complete novel, and
its rejection letters.
She said the response to her frst book
was what kept her going while writing her
second book, featuring a werewolf who
travels from the Scotland Highlands to
upstate New York. The book, Call of the
Highland Moon was what landed Castle
her frst agent and publishing deal.
Call of the Highland Moon was the
frst in Castles frst series, the MacInnes
Werewolves trilogy. Her choice to set her
story in New York was the result of a piece
of advice to write what you know.
For remote locations that Castle has
never actually visited, like Scotland, she
does internet traveling to fnd pictures
and descriptions.
Currently, Castle is working on her
second series, the Dark Dynasties. The frst
in that series, Dark Awakening, was re-
leased in July 2011 through Grand Central
Publishing. The second two, Midnight
Reckoning and Shadow Rising, will be
put out in 2012. Another of Castles books,
Renegade Angel, was a fnalist for the
2011 RITA award for Contemporary Series
Romance in Suspense or Adventure.
While some books are a fght to get
every word out of her head and onto the
page, Castle said Renegade Angel was
a lot of fun to write, and was the product
of years in Catholic schools.
Normally, Castle said she doesnt
scream out of excitement, but the phone
call with the news that she was a RITA f-
nalist, her customary reserve broke.
It was the shriek heard all the way
around the neighborhood, Castle said.
She said she is still a voracious read-
er, though she has less time to do so cur-
rently. She said she started out reading
historical novels, and moved on to every-
thing from Nora Roberts to Gena Show-
alter. She said she has even read Fabio
covers and Stephen King, covering the
gambit of both novel genres and lengths.
She said some writers are plotters
while others are pantsers. Plotters will
have full storyboards and character out-
lines before they begin writing while
pantsers just sit at their computer and
start writing without having a clear idea
of where they will wind up.
The fun for me is fnding out where
Im going, Castle said.
While she does fy by the seat of
her pants when writing, Castle said she
also keeps a notebook for every book she
writes where she scribbles down scenes
and ideas or just starts writing longhand
if she gets writers block at the computer
screen. Castle said the change from typing
to writing longhand can be enough to get
through rough spots.
Its really not very organized, she
said. But it works for me.
For more information, visit www.
kendraleighcastle.com. By Sarah Miller (CT)
sarahmiller@countytimes.net
Local Author Prepares For
Next Big Release
Community
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The showing from Calvert
County at Julys 4H Horse Jam-
boree may have been small, but
they made their presence known
never the less.
Taylor Garner, a 15-year-old
4H participant who attends Cal-
vert High School, won the t-shirt
logo contest, making her design
the logo on the jamboree shirts,
and the championship in the se-
nior photography art contest.
Wyatt Holtrey, an 11-year-
old from Calvert County, won
reserve champion in the public
speaking contest and a champion-
ship in the junior photography art
contest.
Taylor said she felt like she
had a slight advantage in the con-
test because of her age. She felt
like the judges were looking for a
design that was neat and simple,
which is how she described her
logo.
She said winning the compe-
titions, while a good experience, is not the
reason for joining. She said the best part of
entering contests is creating something she
can be proud of.
Doing your best means you won for
yourself, Taylor said.
She said she has been in 4H for sev-
en years and joined at the suggestion of
her mother, Natalie Garner, a fellow 4H
veteran.
Garner said both her children are
in 4H and, while both were interested in
horses to begin with, her sons interest
drifted toward computers, robotics and
ATVs. Through 4H he can fnd ATV safety
courses.
4H is open to people from all walks
of life, not just kids with an interest in ag-
riculture and animals. Taylor said there is
something for all students to get involved
in, from showing animals to photography
and even public speaking. She said 4H is
an opportunity to fnd something to be pas-
sionate about and not just be home watch-
ing TV.
She said 4H is an international organi-
zation, with students from all walks of life
and backgrounds.
I believe it can bring the world closer
together, Taylor said.
The Calvert County 4H group is open
to kids 8 through 18, and adults are wel-
come to donate their time and talents to the
4H. Children under the age of 8 are allowed
to participate as Clovers, and there are ac-
tivities and crafts for them to get involved
in as well. Garner said the older 4H stu-
dents are encouraged to help the younger
children and even lead them in activities,
allowing them to develop leadership skills.
She also said the kids are encouraged
to get involved in public speaking competi-
tions, a skill that will beneft them later in
life. She said she used to be a bashful public
speaker, but after being in 4H I have no
trouble getting up in front of a crowd.
Its very much a family thing, Gar-
ner said.
For more information, visit www.cal-
vert.umd.edu/4H/index.cfm. By Sarah Miller
(CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net
4H Club Ofers
Opportunities to Grow
Photos courtesy of Natalie Garner
To ensure frst responders from Calvert
County Volunteer Fire-Rescue-EMS stay
strong and ready to serve the community at
a moments notice, the department is partici-
pating in National Firefghter Health Week
from Aug. 14-20.
Because of their signifcant respon-
sibilities as frst responders, it is especially
important for our hometown heroes to focus
on their health and wellness and do what they
can to keep their hearts and bodies strong,
said Calvert County Recruitment and Reten-
tion Specialist Kim Jones.
National Firefghter Health Week is
sponsored nationally by the National Volun-
teer Fire Council (NVFC) and supported by
a network of fre service and health-related
organizations. To proactively combat the
alarming instances of fatal heart disease
among frefghters, the NVFC launched the
Heart-Healthy Firefghter Program in 2003
to educate frefghters and emergency re-
sponders about heart health and provide them
with the tools and resources to get and stay
healthy. The ffth annual National Firefghter
Health Week asks frefghters to learn their
risk factors, commit to making healthy life-
style changes and keep the momentum going
all year.
During National Firefghter Health
Week, the frst responders at Calvert Coun-
ty Volunteer Fire-Rescue-EMS will focus
on health and wellness by participating in a
county-wide softball tournament on Sunday,
August 14.
The department asks for community
awareness and support during National
Firefghter Health Week and in its health
and wellness initiatives throughout the year.
Learn more about National Firefghter Health
Week and frefghter health at www.healthy-
frefghter.org/healthweek.
To fnd out more about the health and
wellness activities of Calvert County Fire-
Rescue EMS, or if you or your business
would like to assist in these initiatives, con-
tact Kim Jones at 410-535-1600, ext. 2668 or
jonesks@co.cal.md.us.
National Firefghter Health
Week Coming
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301-997-1260
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P.O. Box 179
41600 Fenwick Street
301-475-2551
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FAX: 301-475-6909
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23507 Hollywood Road
Leonardtown, Maryland 20650
(301) 475-5671
FAX (301) 475-9108
Suite D
105 Contennial Street
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(301) 934-5780
FAX (301) 934-9162
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3
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Gazette
Notley Bateman, 92
Not ley
Julius Bate-
man, 92,
of Laurel
Grove, MD,
f o r me r l y
of Prince
Ge o r g e s
County, died
July 20, 2011
in his home
in New Bern, NC. Born on June
18, 1919 in Capital Heights, MD
he was the son of the late Perry
C. Bateman and Grace Gretchen
Bateman. Mr. Bateman is survived
by his loving wife Mary Beatrice
Bateman whom he married in St.
Josephs Catholic Church, Mor-
ganza, MD on January of 1997.
Mr. Bateman is survived by his
children: Chester A. Bateman of
Prince Georges County, Robert
L. Bateman of New Holland, MI,
William E. Bateman of Calvert
County, MD, Kathy L. Payne of
New Bern, NC, and Donald L.
Bateman, of St. Marys County,
MD. Notley is also survived by
one sister Mary Ellen Snodgrass
of Palm Bay, FL, 8 grandchildren,
and 9 great-grandchildren.
Mr. Bateman graduated from
Glasva High School in 1938 and
moved from Melbourne, FL to St.
Marys County in 1990. Mr. Bate-
man received the Pacifc Theater
Ribbon, American Theater Rib-
bon, and the Victory Medal during
the occupation of Honsu, Japan on
September 9, 1945 while serving
on the USS Xanthus. Notley served
in the United States Navy from
February 18, 1944 until he was
honorably discharged on January
18, 1946. Mr. Bateman worked as
a used car manager with Lustine
Chevrolet until he retired in May
of 1981. Notley enjoyed hunting,
fshing, gardening and was a mem-
ber of the music group called The
Vibes. Mr. Batemen was preced-
ed in death by his brother Peary
Clyde, Jr.
A Funeral service was held
on Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 11
a.m. in the Maryland Mattingley-
Gardiner Funeral Home with Fr.
Keith Woods offciating. Interment
followed at Ft. Lincoln Cemetery,
Brentwood, MD.
Pallbearers were Chester
Bateman, Robert Bateman, Wil-
liam Bateman, Mark Bateman,
Brian Bateman, Christopher
Bateman.
Honorary Pallbearers were
Dan Fuller Eddy Fuller, Les Payne,
Joe Layman, Phil Layman and
Chris Buffalini.
Contributions in memory
of Notley Julius Shorty Bat-
man may be made to Community
Care Hospice, 1423 S. Glen Burnie
Road, New Bern, NC 28562.
To leave a condolence for the
family please visit www.mgfh.
com.
Arrangements provided by
the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral
Home, P.A, Leonardtown, MD.
Dick Catterton, 66
Robert C.
Dick Cat-
terton, 66, of
Lothian died
July 14, 2011 at
Calvert Coun-
ty Nursing
Center, Prince
Frederick.
He was
born March 27,
1945 in Baltimore, MD to Doris
Catterton. Dick was raised by Jose-
phine Smith Chaney. He attended
Fairview Elementary School and
Calvert High School. Dick was a
farmer for most of his life working
the Dowell Farm in Owings. Later
in life he worked as a carpenter
with Hopkins and Wayson Con-
struction Company.
Dick was preceded in death by
Doris Catterton, Josephine Smith
Chaney, Joyce McCarthy and a
special friend and companion Al-
ice Stallings. Surviving are Pearl
J. Dowell of Upper Marlboro, Glo-
ria A. King of Chesapeake Beach,
Toni King of Lothian, Rhonda
Chaney and her husband Lesley
of Chesapeake Beach, Mark King
and his wife Laura of St. Leonard
and Angie Dowell and her husband
Jeff of Hollywood, MD.
Rausch Funeral Home han-
dled arrangements.
Memorial contributions:
American Diabetes Association,
Washington DC-MD Offce, 1025
Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 1005,
Washington, DC 20036-4104.
Richard Fischer, Jr., 58
Richard Henry Fischer, Jr.
of Solomons, MD passed away
peacefully at his residence on Au-
gust 1, 2011.
He was born on March 30,
1953 in Washington, D. C. to
Frances Hunter Fischer and the
late Richard Henry Fischer, Sr.
He married his loving wife Susan
Fischer on October 2, 1987.
Richard graduated from St.
Andrews High School in Florida
and attended the University of
Florida; he received his bach-
elor degree in 1977. Richard was
a member of the Calvert County
Chamber of Commerce, Past Pres-
ident of the Solomons Business
Association and Past President of
The Friends of Jefferson Patterson
Park.
He was preceded in death by
his father, Richard Henry Fischer,
Sr.
Richard is survived by his
mother, Frances Hunter Fischer;
beloved wife, Susan Fischer of
Solomons, MD; devoted children,
Richard Fischer, III of Solomons,
MD and Barbara Fischer of Gil-
bert, AZ and his sister, Anne Lee
Phillips of Annapolis, MD.
The family received friends
on Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at
the Solomons Island Yacht Club,
14604 Solomons Island Road,
Solomons, MD 20688 where a cel-
ebration of his life was held.
The family request in lieu
of fowers memorial contribu-
tions may be made to S.M.I.L.E.,
Ecumenical Ministries, Inc., P.O.
Box 1276, Solomons, MD 20688,
www.smileinc.org.
Arrangements by the Rausch
Funeral Home, Lusby, www.raus-
chfuneralhomes.com.
Audrey Gantt, 79
Audrey
Ithea (Ban-
nister) Gantt,
79, of Lusby,
MD was
born De-
cember 12,
1931 in Cal-
vert County,
Maryland, to
the late Eliz-
abeth and James Bannister.
Audrey was better known as
Rabbit or Granny. She received her
education in the public schools of
Calvert County. Audrey was unit-
ed in holy matrimony to the late
Marcus Gantt Sr. (Boo) on October
13, 1951. They were blessed with
six children. She was a devoted
wife and mother.
Audrey was a dynamic cook
for over ffty years. She cooked
at various restaurants and for her
church family. Audrey was a moth-
er to the community. She loved
everyone and showed her love
through home cooking. Audrey
opened her home to many friends
and family. Her family was center
of her life. She gave of herself con-
tinuously and always put God frst.
Audrey was a dedicated member of
Eastern United Methodist Church.
She participated in fundraisers for
the Sunday school and sponsored
Sunday school trips. Audrey would
sponsor children to allow them to
attend trips.
Audrey departed this world
on Monday, July 11, 2011. She was
preceded in death by her loving
husband Marcus Gantt, Sr. (Boo).
In addition to her husband and son,
she was preceded in death by her
son, Olson Gantt, Sr.; sister, El-
eanor Bannister; brothers, James
Bannister, Sr., Olson Bannister, Sr.
and Leroy (Peter) Gantt. She leaves
to cherish her memories her chil-
dren, Ann Hurdle (Shawn), Doro-
thea (Rita) Gantt, Shirley Gantt,
Marcus Gantt Jr., ( Laura), one ad-
opted son Phillip Sutton (Barbara)
and sisters, Odella Talley, Cheryl
Avery; 4 brothers-in-law, 4 sisters-
in-law, 20 grandchildren, 14 great
grandchildren and a multitude of
other relatives and friends.
Funeral service was held on
Saturday, July 9, 2011 at 11:00 AM
at Eastern UM Church, Lusby,
MD with Rev. Robert L. Conway
offciating. The interment was at
Eastern UM Church Cemetery,
Lusby, MD.
The pallbearers were Shaun
Johnson, John Jones, Gerald Wat-
kins, Jr., Eugene Lake, Jr., Justin
Freeman, and Shawn Hurdle.
The honorary pallbearers
were Markee Gantt, Allen Buck,
and Darrion Hutchins.
Funeral arrangements pro-
vided by Sewell Funeral Home,
Prince Frederick, MD.
Alfonzo Jones, 30,
Alfonzo Lamont Jones, 30, of
Millersville, MD was born to the
late Maria Gross and Alvin Jones
in Annapolis, MD on August 23rd,
1980. He suddenly departed this
life on July 15th, 2011.
He attended Tracys Elemen-
tary school and graduated from
Southern High School in Har-
wood, MD in May, 1998.
Fonzos hobbies included,
collecting comic books, going to
the racetrack, assembling model
cars, mastering video games, and
most importantly he LOVED to
cook!! He got his passion for cook-
ing from his mother, Maria Gross,
who he thought was one of the best
cooks around. Fonzo also enjoyed
spending time with his nieces
and nephews; whom he loved as
though they were his own. In his
younger years he loved going to
family outings and cookouts at
Aunt Jackies and Aunt Mickeys
house, because they both spoiled
him! He also enjoyed spending
time with his brother Domonique,
and going to Aunt Syls house to
spend time with Ikea.
Fonzo is survived by his fa-
ther Alvin Jones of Clinton, MD,
his grandfather Lawrence Chew of
Lothian, MD along with 4 sisters
and one brother; Shirley Jones of
Glen Burnie, MD; DeVonya Jones
of Millersville, MD, with whom
he resided, Domonique Jones of
Baltimore, MD, Allison
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and Ayesha Jones of Landover,
MD. He is also survived by his
nieces and nephews; Trevon Jones,
Imani, Dashawn, Saniya Clark and
Jasmyne Young. He also leaves to
mourn a host of aunts, uncles and
cousins.
Funeral service was held on
Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 11:00
AM at Sewell Funeral Home,
Prince Frederick, MD with Pastor
Bernard Howard, eulogist.
The interment was at Holland
Cemetery, Huntingtown, MD.
The pallbearers were his cous-
ins, Dorille Gray, Melvin Jones,
Ray Jones, Henry Jones, Jr., Dar-
rion Jones, and Lorenzo Jones, Jr.
Debra Lancaster, 58
De br a
Ann Lan-
caster, 58, of
Prince Fred-
erick died at
her home on
July 9, 2011.
S h e
was born on
Sept ember
11, 1953 in
C u mb e r -
land, MD to the late Allan and
Reatha Leona Bridges. She had
lived in this area since 1986 and
had been employed by the Associa-
tion for Retarded Citizens (ARC).
She enjoyed reading (especially
Stephen King novels), watching
Jeopardy, playing Farkle and
Scrabble and cheering for her be-
loved Redskins.
She is survived by her son,
Russell Lancaster III and his wife,
Becky of Churchton; daughters,
Dayna Lancaster of Prince Freder-
ick and Jaci Sheckells and her hus-
band, Kenneth of Owings, former
husband, Russell Lancaster Sr. of
Lothian, seven grandchildren and
many friends. Her sister, Juanita
Hill and brothers Terry and Vance
Buddy Bridges predeceased her.
Funeral services were held on
July 15, 2011 at Raymond-Wood
Funeral Home.
Rev. Marshall Coffman of
Calvert Christian Community
Church offciated.
John Tarpley, Chip Ewing,
Chris Gascon, Eddie Lumpkin,
Billy Krug and Matt Huddle served
as pallbearers. Delanta Brown and
Kenny Sheckells were the honor-
ary pallbearers.
Memorial contributions may
be made to Safe Harbor, PO Box
980, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.
Raymond-Wood Funeral Home,
Dunkirk.
Jesse Roach, Jr., 69
Jesse T. Roach, Jr. (Sgt. Ret.
MD St Police), died on July 21,
2011, at his residence in Hunting-
town, Maryland at the age of 69.
He was born on June 11, 1942
in Lake Village, Arkansas to Jesse
and Ollie Roach, Sr.
For 46 years, Jesse was the
beloved husband of Ethel Roach
and the loving father of Gregory,
Daren and the late Rebecca Roach.
He was a devoted grandfather to
his grandchildren, Justin, Ryan,
Kristin, Lucie, Ethan and Gabriel
Roach.
Jesse was a resident of Hun-
tingtown, Maryland since 1979 and
a member of the Maryland Troop-
ers Association and the Hunting-
town United Methodist Church.
Retirement allowed him to
spend lots of quality time with all
his grandchildren and adding to his
collection of baseball cards.
be made to Huntingtown United
Methodist Church, P O Box 550,
Huntingtown, MD 20639.
Anna Schellin, 83
A n n a
M a r i e
Schellin, 83,
of Prince
Fr e d e r i c k ,
MD passed
on July 31,
2011. She
was born on
June 15, 1928
in Washing-
ton D.C. to Raymond A. Jones and
Alice Lee Jones.
Anna was a long time resident
of Southern Pines Senior Apart-
ments in Lusby, MD. She was a
very active woman and loved to
spend time with her children and
other family members.
Anna was predeceased by her
parents and her husband Herman
H. Schellin, Jr.
She is survived by her children
Linda A. Pennifll, of Melbourne
FL; Susan M. Crowe, of Stoning-
ton, CT; Betty B. Nolan (Bob), of
Richmond, VA; Patricia K. Smith,
of West Melbourne, FL; Nancy J.
Cory, of Dunkirk, MD; Raymond
C. Hoyle (Lynn) of Prince Freder-
ick, MD. She is also survived by 14
grandchildren, 5 great grandchil-
dren and a sister Carolyn Straeter
(Donald) of Ocean Side, Calif.
The family will receive
friends on Friday August 5, from
9 10 AM at 4405 Broomes Island
Road, Port Republic, MD. A me-
morial services will follow at 10
A.M.
Inurnrment will follow at Ft.
Lincoln Cemetery.
In lieu of fowers, donations
will be received by Southern Pines
Senior Center c/o Senior Counsel,
20 Appeal Lane, Lusby, MD.
Arrangements by Rausch Fu-
neral Home, P.A., Port Republic,
MD For additional information
you can go to www.rauschfu-
neralhomes.com.
Rick Tranmer, 50
R i c h -
ard William
Rick Tran-
mer, 50, of
North Beach
passed away
July 21, 2011
at the Uni-
versity of
Ma r yl a n d
Medical Center in Baltimore.
Rick was born September
17, 1960 at Providence Hospital in
Washington, D.C. He lived with
his family in the Washington area
and also in Prince Georges Coun-
ty, and then moved with them to
Huntingtown in 1974. He attended
Northern Middle School and grad-
uated from Northern High School
in 1977. Rick attended Prince
Georges Community College
where he received his Associates
Degree.
Rick was employed for 34
years as a sales executive with S.
Freedman & Sons, Inc. in Lando-
ver, a commercial supplier of paper,
maintenance and restaurant prod-
ucts. Rick was a season ticket hold-
er and avid fan of the Washington
Redskins. He loved bowling and
participated in numerous leagues
with his friends at Lord Calvert
Bowling in Huntingtown. Rick
also enjoyed time with his dog,
Max.
Rick is survived by two sons,
Richard W. Tranmer, Jr. of Lusby
and Ryan Cecil Tranmer of North
Beach. He is also survived by his
parents Judith A. and Preston E.
Joe Tranmer of Huntingtown;
a brother Brett Tranmer and wife
Laurie of Prince Frederick; a sister
Paige Curran and husband John of
Reston, VA; a step-brother Joseph
Tranmer and wife Terri of Prince
Frederick; a step-sister Sherry
Hancock and husband Ted of Chi-
cago, IL; and his fanc Jennifer
Dooley of St. Marys County.
Friends and family were re-
ceived at Rausch Funeral Home
in Owings, where a celebration of
Ricks life took place.
Kent Woomer, 69
K e n t
E m o r y
Woomer of
Chesapeake
Beach was
born Sep-
tember 7,
1941. He
passed away
peacefully at
Washington
Hospital Cen-
ter July 18, 2011.
Kent enjoyed sailing, horse-
back riding, doing arts and crafts,
and working on his prized 69
Chevy Street machine. Spend-
ing time with his children and
grandchildren was his greatest
enjoyment.
His loving wife, Sharon Jen-
kins Woomer preceded him in
death. He is survived by children
Demian Woomer of Broomes Is-
land, Deanna Woomer of Washing-
ton, DC, Jennifer and Eric Woomer
of Chesapeake Beach. He will
be missed by all his friends who
called him Sunshine, and Paw-
Paw will be especially missed by
his grandchildren, Deegan Woom-
er, Jordan and Kylee Guariglia of
Broomes Island and Natalie and
Nathan Roach of Washington, D.C.
Hilda Velasquez, 81
Hilda Smith Velasquez, 81, of
Lusby died at her home surround-
ed by her family. She was born in
North Carolina to the late Duncan
Monroe and
Stella Mor-
ton Smith.
S h e
had lived in
Virginia and
Ma r y l a n d
and she and
her husband
moved to
Lusby two
years ago. She was employed as an
offce manager for a HVAC Com-
pany and enjoyed family gather-
ings, cooking, shopping and sew-
ing. She had been a member of the
Ft. Washington (Maryland) church
choir.
Mrs. Velasquez is survived
by her husband of 61 years, Ray;
son John Velasquez of Lusby;
daughters Deanna Jones and hus-
band Percy of LaPlata; Susan
McKenzie and husband Rick of
Lusby and Sheila Magoon and
husband Steve of Wakefeld, MA;
brother Everett Smith of Con-
etoe, NC; 10 grandchildren and 15
great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held on
July 26, 2011 at Raymond-Wood
Funeral Home. Rev. Rick Hancock,
Pastor of Dunkirk Baptist Church,
offciated. Interment followed at
Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery,
Cheltenham.
Pallbearers were John Velas-
quez, Rick and Mike McKenzie,
Percy and David Jones and Steve
Magoon.
be made to The American Stroke
Association, 20 Speen St., Fram-
ingham, MA 10701 or online at
www.strokeassociation.org.
Raymond-Wood Funeral Home,
Dunkirk
Spotlight On
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AUGUST 27, 2011
Christ Episcopal Church
3100 Broomes Island Rd (MD 264) Port Republic MD 20676
410-586-0565
Jousting 12 Noon
Church Bazaar 10am.-1pm.
Colonial Church & Music 1pm.-5pm. (Air Cond)
Country Supper 2:30-6:30pm (Box Suppers Available)
(Rain or Shine Air Cond)
www.christchurchcalvert.org
145th Calvert County
Jousting Tournament
The College of Southern Maryland Board
of Trustees has elected Mary Maddox Krug of
Calvert County to a second term as its chair and
Austin Joseph Slater Jr. of St. Marys County to a
second term as the boards vice-chair.
CSMs Board of Trustees is the governing
body providing leadership and oversight of the
colleges mission and policies. Members are ap-
pointed by the governor for fve-year terms. The
board consists of nine members, with Calvert,
Charles and St. Marys counties equally repre-
sented. The chair and vice-chair are selected by
the trustees among themselves annually.
Krug, who has been on CSMs board since
2007, previously served two terms as a Calvert
County Commissioner, from 1990-1998, and
has worked as chief of the news bureau for the
Smithsonian Institution, press spokesperson for
the National Park Services National Capital Re-
gion, and a local government affairs representa-
tive for Constellation Energy. She received both
her bachelors degree in journalism and a juris
doctorate (with honors) from George Washing-
ton University.
Appointed to the board of trustees in 2008,
Slater is president and CEO of Southern Mary-
land Electric Co-op, one of the largest co-ops
in the nation. He holds a master of business
administration degree in fnance from George
Washington University, a bachelors degree in
accounting from Shepherd University and an as-
sociate degree from CSM.
Additional CSM trustees are MacArthur
Jones and Julie Sickle of Calvert County; Lois
DiNatale, Mike Middleton and Dorothea Holt
Smith of Charles County; and Theodore Har-
wood and Dr. Janice T. Walthour of St. Marys
County. Serving as secretary/treasurer to the
board is CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried.
CSM Board Selects Ofcers
Mary Maddox Krug
Austin Joseph Slater Jr.
The College of Southern Maryland
is offering scholarships for non-credit stu-
dents entering one of the Career Starters
healthcare training programs.
Funds for the scholarships were pro-
vided through a $5,000 grant from the
Community Foundation of Charles Coun-
ty for students who intend to work in the
county for a one-year period following
their studies.
Career Starters training programs
prepare students to enter the workforce
with the skills they will need to be suc-
cessful in a career path. Most training pro-
grams are 10 to 16 weeks.
Healthcare programs of study include
certifed nurse assistant, dental assistant,
medical billing specialist, pharmacy tech-
nician, phlebotomy technician and physi-
cal therapy aide. For information on pro-
grams of study and courses, visit http://
www.csmd.edu/WorkforceDevelopment/
Healthcare.html.
Beginning this fall through a partner-
ship with the National Healthcareer Associ-
ation, CSM is offering nationally recognized
certifcations in electrocardiogram techni-
cian (EKG Tech), administrative medical
assistant and entry-level clinical medical
assistant.
CSM will hold Career Starters open
houses for the fall semester in August at
each campus, the Center for Transporta-
tion Training in La Plata and the Center for
Trades and Energy Training in Waldorf.
For information on Career Starters
open houses, visit http://www.csmd.edu/Ca-
reerStarters/index.html or call 301-934-7765.
For information on scholarships for
non-credit students entering one of the Ca-
reer Starters healthcare training programs,
visit http://www.csmd.edu/Training/Finan-
cial/index.html#TuitionAssistanceProgram
The St. Marys County CSM Non-
Credit Career Starters Open House is from
4:30-6 p.m., Aug. 4 at the Leonardtown
Campus, A Building, Auditorium, 22950
Hollywood Road in Leonardtown.
CSM Ofering Non-Credit
Healthcare Program Scholarships
Publisher Thomas McKay
Associate Publisher Eric McKay
Editor Sean Rice
Offce Manager Tobie Pulliam
Graphic Artist Angie Stalcup
Advertising sales@somdpublishing.net
Email info@somdpublishing.net
Phone 301-373-4125
Staff Writers
Guy Leonard Government Correspondent
Sarah Miller Community Correspondent
Corrin Howe Community Correspondent
Contributing Writers
Joyce Baki
Keith McGuire
Southern Calvert Gazette is a bi-weekly newspaper providing news and information for the residents
of Southern Calvert County. The Southern Calvert Gazette will be available on newsstands every
other Thursday of the month. The paper is published by Southern Maryland Publishing Company,
which is responsible for the form, content, and policies of the newspaper. Southern Calvert Gazette
does not espouse any political belief or endorse any product or service in its news coverage. Articles
and letters submitted for publication must be signed and may be edited for length or content. South-
ern Calvert Gazette is not responsible for any claims made by its advertisers.
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A July 21 article by Guy Leonard discussed my recent endorsement of the Mary-
land GOPs proposed redistricting map. Although I described the map as imperfect,
I argued it was better than the current map, and certainly more representative of the
state than a map that created a 7 to 1 Democratic Congressional delegation.
I want to clarify that a critique of Marylands gerrymandered districts is not an
attack on the Democratic party or its policies, it is an attack on the redistricting pro-
cess. I endorsed the Republican map simply because it is a good map. Had the Kiwan-
is Club, or MaryPIRG, or the state Democratic Party presented the same, or a better
proposal, I would have endorsed that map. But in this case, it was the Maryland GOP.
That in no way suggests that I absolve the Republican Party of their equally egregious
gerrymandering antics in other states.
As a college professor I am accustomed to people accusing me of being a social-
ist or a left wing ideologue. During the 2011 legislative session a piece I wrote for the
Washington Post in support of the same sex marriage legislation prompted one reader
to accuse me of being a left wing socialist out to destroy the traditional family. So
in some respects, its refreshing to have folks now assume that I must be a right wing
ideologue for daring to question the make-up of Marylands Congressional districts.
I admit to not having much patience for dyed-in-the-wool partisans. Folks who
think that their party is dedicated to goodness and light and that the opposition party
is evil incarnate really need to wake-up to the reality that there is nothing inherently
good or evil about the Democratic or Republican Party.
In the end, the Democratic and Republican Parties share the same goal - the ac-
quisition of power and infuence within government. And both parties will use what-
ever legal means are available to them to acquire power. In states dominated by Dem-
ocrats, like Maryland, Democrats use the redistricting process to game the system and
boost party interests. Likewise, in a state like Texas, Republicans do the same.
Some folks argue that so long as redistricting is a partisan process and the GOP
controls the process in states like Texas then it should be OK for Democrats to manip-
ulate the process in states where they dominate. As a father, Ive heard this argument
many times except it goes yea, but he started it, did not, did too. So I have little
patience for an adult version of that childish justifcation being applied to something
as important as representation in Congress.
A handfull of states, among them California and Iowa, have rejected partisan
gerrymandering in favor of a non-partisan process. This is what I would I like to
see in Maryland. I want to see more states follow the lead of Iowa and California
and make this a non-partisan issue. Far from showing my partisan colors as sug-
gested by Democratic Central Committee chair Joe Anderson, my critique of Mary-
lands gerrymandered mess was decidedly non-partisan, or perhaps more accuratley,
anti-partisan.
Of all the institutions of our national government, the House of Representatives
was the one body most intended to embody democratic representation. No reasonable
person could look at Marylands 2nd or 3rd Congressional districts and conclude that
they were drawn to best represent the interests of the people. As Americans we should
be outraged that the parties (Democrats and Republicans) manipulate something as
sacred as representation in the manner that they do. Gerrymandering subverts repre-
sentation and subjugates the interests of the people to the interests of political parties.
So let me summarize. I oppose gerrymandering. I do not care if it helps Demo-
crats... I do not care if it helps Republicans ... Its an abuse of process ... It harms every-
one ... and some things, in fact most things, are far more important than party loyalty.
Todd Eberly, Ph.D., Coordinator
Public Policy Studies, Department of Political Science
St. Marys College of Maryland
Professor Endorsed Map, Not Party
St. Marys College political science Professor Todd Eberly deserves much
credit for exposing the Democrat Partys plan to gerrymander the congressional
redistricting process by artful map-making.
If they succeed, the states congressional representation of six Democrats and
tow Republicans would become a seven-to-one split.
Maryland is already a virtual one-party-rule state, where moderate and con-
servative views are ignored or ridiculed. Further concentration of power in the
hands of one partys politicians cannot be a good thing.
Dr. Eberly was quoted as saying he views the plan of the Democrats as abuse
of the process that will further discourage participation of moderate voters.
St. Marys County Democrat Committee Chairman Joe Anderson admitted
that the process isnt so altruistic but he would expect Republicans to do the same
thing. Obviously, the goal of Mr. Anderson and the power brokers of the Democrat
Party is to assure that any opposition party will never have an opportunity to make
such a decision.
Tom Burke
Hollywood, MD
Eberly Deserves Much Credit
I would like to contribute to the ongoing discussion
of the redistricting process and its affect on Maryland and
America. Dr. Todd Eberly hit the nail on the head in his letter
to The County Times on July 28th. Partisan gerrymandering
is a grim reality inherent in our system of government. I am
sad to report that this is the way the system is set up and it
is the way states have been doing business for a long time.
Intense partisan gerrymandering arises from the in-
creased polarization of government, at all levels, but espe-
cially in the United States Congress. Thomas Mann and Norman Ornstein beautifully articulate
this argument in their landmark book on Congress, appropriately entitled The Broken Branch.
Such studies suggest that the ambitious non-partisan redistricting process of states like California
and Iowa will not be adopted by other states.
Maryland is and has long been a stronghold for the Democratic Party. The national interests
of this party trump the view that the current redistricting process is extremely unfair. As long as
the two major parties continue to move further away from each other on the political spectrum,
redistricting will not change.
I love this country, and I have a hard time accepting the fact that all levels of government
have become too divided to be effective and constructive. However, that has increasingly become
a reality that many Americans are accepting. The recent debate on the debt ceiling is a clear ex-
ample. The Republican controlled House passed a budget bill on July 29th almost exclusively along
partisan lines and the Democratic controlled Senate quickly rejected it, effectively accomplishing
absolutely nothing and wasting nearly a week of intense debate and deliberation. Back to the draw-
ing board, with four days to go until our beloved United States defaults on its obligations, and our
economy is mentioned in the same breath as Greece. Mann and Ornstein offer solutions to the
problems that cause this partisanship, but they have not been taken seriously.
Changes need to be made to decrease the partisan rhetoric and overall negativity surrounding
Washington. Leadership starts at the top, and people follow those who are in power. Therefore, the
polarized nature of Washington trickles down to the elected offcials constituents. This means,
following the logic of Mann and Ornstein, that the entire country is becoming more and more
polarized.
Thank you Dr. Eberly, for pointing out a major faw in our democratic system. Let us attempt
to implement your solution, along with the solutions of other political scholars, to clean up the mess
our government is making. It is apparent they have no intentions of cleaning it up themselves.
Calvin Brien
Dameron, MD
A Shattered System
Thursday, July-2011 16
Gentlemen, start your engines. The 7th An-
nual St. Marys National Lawn Mower Race fes-
tivities begin Friday at Bowles Farms.
Bobby Cleveland, 9-time champion and
world record holder for both top speed and mon-
ster mower jumping, will be participating in the
race this weekend.
Known as the Engine Answer Man, Cleve-
land expects to reach speeds of 50 mph during the
race driving his infamous Sodzilla.
Cleveland set the lawn mower world speed
record in 2010 when he reached 97 miles per hour
at the Salt Flats in Utah in 2010.
It remains an active goal for him to hit triple
digits.
Theyre not going to remember who went
96.5, theyre going to remember who went 100
frst, Cleveland said.
His engines belt was slipping in 2010, and
he knows he can easily fx that problem when he
eventually returns to Utah.
Clevelands interest in lawnmower racing
was sparked as a little boy.
He had a red snapper mower he would push
around the lawn in his hometown of Locust
Grove, GA. It would take him about an hour to
cut the grass. He would always run around, trying
to hurry and complete his task as fast as possible.
I thought to myself, boy if they ever turn
this into a competition Id win because I always
try to do it so fast, Cleveland said.
After getting a job with a lawn mowing com-
pany, Cleveland had access to all the parts and
equipment he wanted and began to build mower
engines just for fun. The mowers he put together
were so impressive he was invited for a pre-race
event at the Atlanta 500.
Take a piece of junk and make it fy, he
said.
Since his debut in 1995, Cleveland has been
at or near the top of the national lawnmower
ranks. He has been the overall points champ
twice, driver of the year, set world records, and
been a representative of the USA at the World
Championships.
Fans attending the event at Bowles Farms
will be seeing one of the better lawn mower
events of the year, at one of the fner venues, he
said.
There are not that many dedicated tracks
like this one around the country, Cleveland said.
Saturdays race is a regional points race that
can be used as a qualifer for the National Race on
Labor Day weekend in Delaware, Ohio.
Racers are coming from all over the country.
Racing a lawn mower is different from go-
carts because mowers are top heavy.
The race features a Le-mans style standing
start.
Racers sprint to their mowers, start them,
and race approximately 20 laps at speeds of 45-50
miles per hour.
Starting is a big part of the race. If your
mower doesnt start right up you have no chance,
Cleveland explained.
He also said it is important to be patient,
and know your opponents, adding that one of his
biggest concerns is getting in front of local racer
Jason Brown.
Despite the intense competition that will
be on display during the race, the event is all for
good fun.
This crowd is one of the largest of the year
for a lawnmower race, with approximately 3,000-
5,000 people expected to attend the event.
We enjoy getting the people together, said
Bowles Farms owner Tommy Bowles. Its been
seven years and we always have a very down-at-
home atmosphere.
All proceeds will beneft the Seventh Dis-
trict Volunteer Rescue Squad and the Seventh
District Optimist Club.
Bowles believes that people should come
out not only because they will have a good time,
but also because it is a non-proft event with the
money going back into the community.
Cleveland concurs.
The main point is that this is a great fun-
draiser for the community, Cleveland said, So
come out, have fun, and meet the worlds fastest
racer.
For more information on the events visit
www.bowlesfarms.com. By Alex Panos (SCG) info@
somdpublishng.net
Worlds Fastest Lawn Mower
Racer Coming to St. Marys
With the BMX season underway, riders competed in two days of racing
at Southern Maryland BMX track in Chaptico.
Last Saturday, riders competed in the American Bicycle Associations
Race for Life series.
The ABA has hosted this series since 1981 when one of its riders was
diagnosed with leukemia and later succumbed to the disease. Ever since, the
ABA has hosted Race for Life events around the country at participating
tracks.
On Sunday riders from all over the state competed in the Maryland
State Championship Qualifer. Riders competed to win a spot in the State
Championship to be held in September at Chesapeake BMX.
Sunday morning found the local riders out early grooming the surface
of the track with rakes and shovels. Ruts and holes from the season had to be
smoothed over in expectation of a large crowd to race.
The hard work of the volunteers didnt go unnoticed from the visitors.
Many visiting riders exclaimed what a beautiful park the track is located in.
With Chaptico Park being off the beaten path for many riders from
outside the area they were impressed with the facilities available and the
hospitality shown by the home track riders.
Among riders in attendance was Taylor Bohannon who races in the
8-year-old novice class.
When asked what she thought about before the race starts she replied
Me winning! she went on to say even if she doesnt win its all about
having fun.
With four months of the BMX season left to race, the track welcomes
new riders to come and try the track out. Its a great way to get the kids off
the couch and enjoying a day of friendly competitiveness. By Scott Lofin (SCG)
info@somdpublishing.net
BMX Riders
Race for Life
Sp rts
& Out About
Tuesday-Saturday, Aug. 2-6
Carnival Sponsored by the North Beach Volunteer
Fire Department
North Beach, Visitor Parking Lot
5th Street and Bay Avenue on the Boardwalk, North
Beach
301-855-6681 410-257-9618 www.ci.north-beach.
md.us
Friday, Aug. 5
First Free Friday
Calvert Marine Museum (5-8 p.m.)
14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons 410-326-2042
www.calvertmarinemuseum.com
The frst Friday of every month features the frst FREE
Friday program when the museum is open and free to the pub-
lic from 5 until 8 p.m. with special entertainment and activi-
ties. The Drum Point Lighthouse will be open and 30-minute
cruises are available on the Wm. B. Tennison. Deanna Dove
will perform at 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 5
USO Reenactment of WWII (USO Night) (6-10
p.m.)
Circle of Angels Initiative, Inc. Boardwalk Pavilion at
Solomons Island
410-257-5488 info@circleofangels.org www.circleo-
fangels.net
Free and open to the public, USO Night is on the board-
walk pavilion in Solomons. This musical event salutes those
who trained at the Solomons base during WWII with original
recordings from the era and live performers. There will also
be a wreath-laying ceremony and Taps at sunset.

Saturday, Aug. 6-7
26th Annual AIITCO Native American Powwow
Calvert County Fairgrounds
140 Calvert Fair Drive, Prince Frederick 301-869-9381
www.aiitco.com
Bring lawn chairs and enjoy Native American dancers
from across the country, listen to the sound of their drums
and learn about Native American culture. Grand entry will
be on noon both days. Craft vendors with jewelry, pottery,
books, music and native foods will be available. Visit website
for admission and times.

Saturday, Aug. 6-14
The Sidewalk Chalk-a-thon (10 a.m.-5 p.m.)
Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center 13480 Dow-
ell Road, Solomons
410-326-4640 www.annmariegarden.org
Show off your artistic fair at the annual
Sidewalk Chalk-a-thon art contest. Free for mem-
bers or with admission to the Arts Building (oth-
erwise there is a $1 per entry fee). Dont miss this
unique opportunity to make some interesting art and stroll
through a colorful pathway. You may even win a prize!

Thursday, Aug. 11
Summer Fun Days Childrens Programs
Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum (10-11:30 a.m.)
4155 Mears Avenue, Chesapeake Beach 410-257-3892
www.cbrm.org
Free childrens programs, crafts, games and exploration
of the museum and its history.

Bay Breeze Concert Series Two for You
Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum (7:30 p.m.)
4155 Mears Avenue, Chesapeake Beach 410-257-3892
www.cbrm.org
Ralph and Janet will perform a variety of musical styles
from the 40s through today on their second appearance to the
series. All concerts are free and outside on the museum porch.
Concert series made possible with cooperation of the Calvert
County Commissioners and fnancial assistance from HELP
Association, Inc., the Town of Chesapeake Beach and gener-
ous memberships.

Saturday, Aug. 13
Fossil Field Experience
Calvert Marine Museum (9 a.m.-2 p.m.)
14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons 410-326-2042
www.calvertmarinemuseum.com
Designed for adults and children eight and older who
want to learn more about fossils, where to fnd them, how to
identify them and what they tell us about the past. Fee is $20.
Space is limited and registration is required.

Colonial Family Days: A Colonial Celebration!
Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum (10 a.m.-2 p.m.)
10515 Mackall Road, St. Leonard 410-586-8501 www.
jefpat.org
Celebrate the end of the growing season by creating a
colonial feast using recipes of the time. Visit our Native Gar-
den, harvest crops and learn to cook over an open fre. After
feasting, enjoy traditional colonial dance. Advanced registra-
tion required.

Eat, Drink, Go Local North Beach
5th Street & Bay Avenue on the Boardwalk, North
Beach (Noon-6 p.m.)
301-855-6681 410-257-9618 www.ci.north-beach.
md.us or www.marylandwine.com
Come for a pairing of the best of what Southern Mary-
land has to offer with an open-air farmers market feel. Browse
local produce from regional farmers and enjoy cooking dem-
onstrations all while learning which local wines to pair with
local fare.

Guided Canoe Trip
American Chestnut Land Trust (1:30-4:30 p.m.)
Warriors Rest Sanctuary, 1920 Scientists Cliffs Road,
Port Republic 410-414-3400 www.acltweb.org
Please note that canoe trips are physically strenuous, re-
quiring paddling for three hours (frequently against wind and
tides) and may require participants to help carry a canoe for
up to one-quarter mile over sand to access the creek. Reserva-
tions required. Call 410-414-3400 or email info@acltweb.org
to register.

Moonlight Cruise on the Chesapeake Bay
(7:30-9:30 p.m.)
Join us aboard the Miss Chesapeake Beach. Light re-
freshments will be served; beverages available for purchase.
Tickets are $25 per person. Call Chesapeake Beach Town
Hall to reserve your space. 410-257-2230 301-855-8398

Ronnie Dunn Concert
St. Leonard Volunteer Fire Department (Gates open at 5
p.m.; concert at 7 p.m.)
200 Calvert Beach Road, St. Leonard 410-586-1713
Join us in welcoming country music star Ronnie Dunn
singing his award-winning songs from the past as well as
from his new album. Tickets are $45 premium; $40 reserved.
Thursday, Aug. 18
Archaeology Speakers Series there is still some
remains: Excavations on the 18th Century Smith Plantation
(7 p.m.)
Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory, Jef-
ferson Patterson Park & Museum
10515 Mackall Road, St. Leonard 410-586-8501 www.
jefpat.org
Lecturer Edward Chaney, Deputy Director, MAC Lab,
discusses the Smith Family that lived from 1711 to 1754 at
the mouth of St. Leonard Creek on property that is now part
of Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum. While the house has
washed away, archaeological traces of the kitchen and out-
buildings are preserved below the ground. Excavations have
uncovered a number of structures including one of the oldest
horse stables in the Chesapeake region.
P
ages
P
ast
By Joyce Baki
In 1978, the Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge opened to traffc across the Patuxent
River, connecting Calvert County to St. Marys County, but many dont know the deco-
rated history of this man.
Thomas Johnson was Marylands frst elected governor. Born on November 4, 1732,
in St. Leonard, he was one of 10 children born to Thomas and Dorcas Sedgwick Johnson.
His grandfather, also named Thomas Johnson, came to Maryland in the late 1600s from
England. Grandfather Johnson had eloped with Mary Baker, a chancery ward. In those
times it was forbidden in England to marry maids in chancery, so he fed with his new wife
and settled in Maryland along the shores of the Patuxent River.
Young Thomas Johnson and his siblings were taught at home. He was attracted to
law, so his parents sent him to Annapolis where he studied under Stephen Bordley. He
was admitted to the Maryland bar in 1753 at the age of 23. In 1760 he moved his practice to
Frederick County, where, in 1760, Johnson was elected for the frst time to the provincial
assembly.
On February 16, 1766, Thomas Johnson married Ann Jennings, the daughter of
Thomas Jennings, who was his employer. Thomas and Ann had eight children.
Johnson served as a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1774 and 1775 and fa-
vored separation from Great Britain. When Congress created a Committee of Secret Cor-
respondence to seek foreign support for
the war, Johnson served on the commit-
tee with Benjamin Franklin, John Dick-
inson, Benjamin Harrison and John Jay.
The committees most notable success
was to convince the French government
to support the cause of the colonials.
After returning to Maryland to
continue his work in the Assembly he
did not join in the writing of the Dec-
laration of Independence, however, he
did draft a declaration of rights that
was adopted by the Maryland Assem-
bly. This declaration was included as
the frst part of Marylands frst con-
stitution, adopted in 1776. During the
Revolutionary War he served as briga-
dier general in the Maryland militia.
He and his brothers, James, Baker and
Roger, also supported the revolution by
manufacturing ammunition at
their business, Catoctin Iron
Furnace. The furnace remains
can be found at Cunningham
Falls State Park, just north of
Frederick, Md.
In 1775, the Second Con-
tinental Congress met in Phil-
adelphia. On June 15, 1777,
Thomas Johnson nominated
his friend, George Washington, to be Commander-in-Chief of the Continental
Army. Washington was elected by a unanimous vote.
In 1777, the state legislature elected Thomas Johnson as the frst governor
of Maryland and he served as governor until 1779. In the 1780s he served in a
number of judicial posts and also in the Assembly. In September 1789, President
George Washington nominated Johnson as the frst federal judge for the District
of Maryland, a post Johnson declined. In 1790 and 1791, Thomas Johnson served
as the senior justice in the Maryland General Court system.
On August 5, 1791, Thomas Johnson received a recess appointment to a
seat on the U.S. Supreme Court by President Washington when John Rutledge
resigned. Recess appointments are made when a seat on the U.S. Supreme Court
must be flled while Congress is on recess. His appointment was confrmed by
the United States Senate on November 7, 1791. He served on the court until Janu-
ary 16, 1793, resigning due to poor health. His health forced him to decline an
offer of Secretary of State in 1795 by Washington. In 1801, he was named chief
judge for the District of Columbia by President John Adams.
In poor health for many years, Johnson lived in his later years with his
daughter Ann, who married John Colin Grahame. Their home, Rose Hill Manor,
was in Frederick. It is now a county park and is open to the public. Thomas John-
son died at Rose Hill Manor on October 26, 1819, a week before his 87th birth-
day. Originally buried at the family vault at All Saints in Frederick, his remains
were removed and re-interred at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
A monument was erected over his grave. Taken from his obituary in the
Maryland Gazette, November 11, 1819:
Mr. Johnson was among the frst in the Union to assert the just claims of
his country against the tyranny and oppression of Great Britain, and was early
in life honoured with the most important and arduous trusts which his country-
men could confer. . . . His deeds are inscribed in the imperishable archives of
his country; his wisdom, impartiality and integrity in the records of justice; his
worth & virtues are preserved in the hearts of his countrymen; his kindness, af-
fection and friendship in the memory of his family, relatives and friends; his trust
for immortality rested in his Savior and God.
In another footnote of history, the daughter of Johnsons brother Joshua,
Louisa Johnson, married John Quincy Adams, the sixth President of the United
States.
Do You Know
Gov. Thomas Johnson?
Thomas Johnson by Charles Willson Peale
STORY
William Douglass has served Calvert County for
24 years from his small nook on Southbound Rt. 4. At
least that is how he feels about collecting and selling
fossils from the countys beaches.
During one of the hottest and most humid sum-
mer days this summer, Douglass sat on his plastic
green Adirondack chair in the shade of his umbrella
and pickup truck to talk about his years selling shark
teeth along the highway.
It all started Independence Day 1987 when he
set up his local fnds along the road for residents and
tourists alike. In the beginning he kept a log to see
how long it would take him to reach his goal of serving
someone from every state in the Union. After four or
fve years he met the goal and stopped keeping his log.
Ive been collecting since I was a little boy. I was
born in Port Republic, and a lady friend showed me
how to look for them.
It doesnt take long after sitting down with Dou-
glass before one hears the word enjoy. He enjoys ev-
erything about his little business, which he prefers to
call his hobby. His unusually crystal blue eyes dance
as he talks.
I enjoy setting up.
I enjoy talking to people.
I enjoy watching vehicles.
I enjoy watching the weather looking for
changes.
I enjoy telling stories of how I found things.
I enjoy children.
In fact, he started collecting and fnding out about
his collection for the children; however, he has found
over the years that everybody seems to appreciate
pulling over and looking through his fnds.
He collects all year long and sets up when the
weather is nice enough. He also tries to set up during
the holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas
for those who want to give unique and local gifts. He
always sets up across from Calvert Cliffs State Park.
People seem to be able to fnd you if you dont
move around.
By being a Calvert County icon, Douglass has
found that residents will call him up when they have
family coming into town. They will either buy some-
thing for their visitors or they will bring their visitors
by to see him.
Douglass customers arent just Americans. Just
this summer he sold merchandise to a family visiting
from Amsterdam and a young man from Spain. He
rattled off customers from Australia, Argentina, Mex-
ico, Venezuela and Africa, to name a few.
One day I was sitting in my truck reading about
shark attacks. I see a Hertz van make a U-turn and
stop in front of me. The man got out and asked me if
I knew who he was. I told him I didnt, even though I
was just reading about him in my book. It was Rod-
ney Fox from Australia. He showed me his scars and I
said, Looks like someone was in a bad car accident.
I was just joking because I knew who he was. I just
happened to be reading about him.
According to Wikipedia, Rodney Fox is regard-
ed as a miracle survivor of one of the worlds worst
non-fatal shark attacks. The entry goes on to detail
his injuries including a permanent piece of a great
white tooth embedded in his wrist and 462 stitches re-
quired to sew him up.
Besides meeting Fox, Douglass listed many lo-
cals who stop by regularly to see him. He appreciates
the attention from Senator Mike Miller, Sheriff Mike
Evans and people from the Calvert Marine Museum.
When mentioned that state trooper and sheriff vehi-
cles are often seen parked alongside his truck, Doug-
lass chuckled.
They say they like to hear my stories. They look
out for me. They are always around. It makes it easier
to know that I have friends around watching out for
me.
Douglass doesnt just talk to the local humans.
Hes struck up a few conversations with seagulls and
deer while hes out on his fossil trips.
In the winter when Im pushing on ice you dont
see many folks. I see the seagulls huddled together and
I talk to them.
He laughs as he tells the story of deer hunting
season when hes out collecting fossils and the deer
are standing on the sandbars grazing on grass and lap-
ping sea water.
Ill see 20 or 30 of them on the shore while the
hunters are in the woods looking for them.
Douglass only collects what he calls foaters.
These are artifacts and fossils which are foating along
the shorelines or out in the water. He wont dig any-
thing out of the cliffs. Over the years hes found oyster
shells, whale bones, sea glass, clam shells, Indian arti-
facts, horse teeth, crocodile teeth and crushing plates
of stingrays.
Before he started selling fossils along the road,
Douglass spent 13 years in the Army and was honor-
ably discharged. His career cut short with Lymphoma.
I still have shunts in my heart. I worry with
thunder and lightning. He cringed as he spoke.
Over the years hes observed some interest-
ing events along the road. The funniest, he said, was
watching two young men coming down Route Four in
a 1966 convertible when the car tire came off rolling
so fast it actually passed the vehicle.
They watched it roll by them and all the way
down to the Cove Point exit while they slid off into the
guardrail sparking the whole time.
Another time, he saw a multi-vehicle accident as
someone made a left turn into the State Park. He was
sitting outside his truck when he saw a tractor-trailer
and dump truck swerve to go around the accident and
head straight toward him.
The sheriff asked me if I saw the accident. I told
him all I saw was the truck grill and I took off running
for the trees.
Douglass said he believes he was meant to serve
the people and children of Calvert at his spot. He said
before his father died, he told Douglass to take care
of the children. One day a female ambulance driver
stopped and told him that his father was pronounced
dead at that exit as they tried to transport him from his
Drum Point home to the hospital.
Last year he spoke to approximately 800 elemen-
tary students in a Clifton school. He laughed as he said
the principal noted she thought she saw steam com-
ing out of his head after answering all the students
questions.
Douglass hopes that his future will allow him to
spend more time visiting elementary schools and shar-
ing what he has and knows.
As the sun started slipping behind the trees and
the sound of the traffc lowered during the interview
Douglass noted his greatest concern is that there wont
be anyone wholl take over his service to the county
after hes gone. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) info@somdpublish-
ing.net
The Shark TooTh Man
a one of a kind find
L
Angler Angler
The Ordinary
In an effort to give back to the community, Val Spencer, the owner of Laser Lube Auto
Repair in California, along with the nearby AutoZone and NAPA Auto Parts is working to
fnd a car to fx up and give away to a family in need.
Spencer said she got the idea for a car give away from a management success work-
shop, where she got several ideas she still uses to this day. While she was on the fence
about doing the car give away for a while, she fnally decided to jump in and do it.
The car Spencer is seeking is a midsize or larger, with four doors and seating for at
least fve. The goal is to fx up the donated car, addressing any mechanical issues, and then
give it away to somebody nominated by the public. Once they have the car, it is up to the
recipient to register and insure the vehicle. While they dont have a car for the give away
yet, Spencer said there are a couple people who have expressed interest in donating cars.
Ive got a few feelers out there, Spencer said.
Mark Tyra, commercial manager for AutoZone in California, said they want to give
the car to people who will use it to help others in turn and perpetuate the cycle of giving to
the community. He said giving an individual the means to help somebody else makes the
give away a win for as many entities as possible.
The car give away is not the frst time Tyra has found a way to do charity work through
his job.
That was my big thing when I was working at NAPA, Tyra said.
This will be the frst time he has done a car give away though. In the past, Tyra has
given away toys at hospitals during Christmas and participated in other charity events.
Spencer said she could make a living by taking in wrecked cars, fxing them up and
reselling them for a proft, but thats not something shes too interested in doing.
Im not in the reselling cars business, Spencer said. Im in the repairing cars
business.
Spencer has owned and operated Laser Lube in California since 1989. She hopes
to keep others from feeling like their car is too mysterious for them to even begin to
understand.
When a person brings their vehicle to Laser Lube for a basic
service, the mechanics explain and report the issues they fnd. Dur-
ing a 40-point oil change, car owners can expect to see all their
drive train fuid samples compared to a new sample, their air flter,
and coolant samples with PH testing.
Spencer grew up in Minnesota, where the frigid winter weath-
er alone was a good reason for people to want their cars to be reli-
able. Spencers family cars tended to be older and always seemed
to need maintenance. Even as a child, Spencer always suspected
that her father, who was not mechanically inclined, was getting
ripped off by auto shops not really fxing the problem and suggest-
ing unnecessary work.
Id just seen it so often, you start to get suspicious, Spencer
said.
Because of this, Spencer said she is doing her best to make
sure the car for the giveaway is in good shape. She said her goal is
to have as many locally owned businesses as possible involved in
the car give away.
AutoZone will be contributing some money and supplies to
the cause, and Tyra said he will fll in the gaps personally, making
sure Spencer gets everything she needs.
NAPA Auto Parts will also be contributing to get Spencer the
parts to fx up the car. NAPA Manager Jimmy Kerns said this will
be the frst car give away that the local NAPA has been involved
in, but not the frst time they have gotten involved in local charities.
You support the people that support you, Kerns said.
He said if the car give away were to become an annual event,
he sees NAPA continuing to be involved. Hes also supportive of
the car going to individuals who will use it to help others, perpetu-
ating the cycle of promoting the community from within.
Tyra also said if the car give away becomes an annual event,
he will continue to be involved.
Spencer said she sees no reason why the event cant become
a recurring thing.
Whats the point in doing it once? Spencer asked.
She said she is willing to work on the cars on her down time
and just continue the cycle of fxing up cars and giving them away.
We could just keep on doing it, Spencer said.
The recipient of the vehicle will get it free, but they will be
responsible for tags, stickers, titling and insuring the vehicle to get
it on the road, Spencer said.
Insuring the vehicle does play a role in fnding a car to fx up for the giveaway. Spencer
said a car that has been totaled or labeled scrap, even if it can be fxed up and used again,
cannot be fully insured. It is only eligible for the most basic, get it on the road insurance.
Shes also wary of accepting cars that need transmission work done, because thats
not a service she normally does herself, instead referring car to other mechanics for major
transmission repairs.
The car giveaway is not the frst time she has done something to give back to the
community. She sends out regular postcards with discounts on services to her cus-
tomers, as well as putting in additions to welcome packages for new residents in
the county and even hosting a Fourth of July Pig Roast at her house, where
she invited everybody on the Laser Lube email list. She has also get-
ting involved in jail and bails, and helps promote the Care Net
Pregnancy Center.
To nominate individuals for the car giveaway, send an
email to Val at: laser_lube@verizon.net. Spencer said
she will accept nominations from St. Marys and
Calvert Counties for the car give away. By Sarah
Miller (CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net
Staff Writer Corrin M. Howe con-
tributed to this story.
Shop Owners Team Up to
Give Car to Needy Family
California business owner Val Spencer, of Laser Lube Auto Repair, is teaming up
with Mark Tyra, commercial manager for Autozone, left, and NAPA Auto Parts
manager Jimmy Kerns, to provide a vehicle to a needy Southern Maryland family.
Franzen Realtors, Inc.
Addie McBride
301-481-6767
addiemcbride@verizon.net
www.SMSCashBash.org
Ofce: 1-800-848-6092 Ofce: 301-862-2222 Fax Ofce: 301-862-1060
22316 Three Notch Rd.
Lexington Park, MD 20653
Tickets Avail At Fran Real.
For more information, please call: 240-587-7111 or
email: info@SMSCashBash.org
Angler Angler
The Ordinary
By Keith McGuire
For the last few weeks I
have included fshing reports
in this article and a high degree
of optimism. It is true! All of
my reports are based on my
own experiences or the experi-
ences reported to me by others.
There may be many
among you who have taken the
time to wet a hook based on my
reports only to discover that
the fsh seem hesitant to co-
operate. I, myself, have been
thoroughly disappointed that
the founder bite is so slow or
that the stripers arent breaking
like the reports have indicated.
I like to have current re-
ports from readers for these
weekly articles. During the
weeks that I dont have any,
I tend to tell a story, which I
hope you fnd somewhat enter-
taining. Some weeks, I combine the two.
I fsh every week. I had a total of one fshing trip this year where I didnt catch a
fsh. That was last Tuesday, July 19, when I launched my boat in advance of the storms
that I thought were travelling west to east, north of here, only to discover later that they
were drifting south. I launched at Solomons, using the public boat ramp under the
Thomas Johnson Bridge, and headed to Cove Point. My fshing partner and I watched
for breaking fsh along the way, but they werent there, so it looked like jigging at the
shallow/deep water demarcation was the thing to do. No sooner had we made our frst
two or three casts, when we noticed the storms moving closer.
We reeled in, put the tackle away and headed back to the ramp without a single pull
on the line. Skunked! I got the boat back to the ramp and on the trailer before the storms
hit. Those of you in the Hollywood area know the rest of the story all too well.
It is extremely rare that I dont catch fsh. On a different trip recently, I decided
to fsh out of Solomons. Like many other trips this year, I fshed hard for founder in
the usual places at the mouth of the Patuxent River and in the Bay before giving up and
changing tackle to fsh for what I thought might be an easier target. I found huge croak-
ers at the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Reef near Cedar Point. I brought home three croakers
over 15 inches.
I flet everything. Pan fsh have bones and my wife doesnt like bones. When pre-
pared as a meal with the usual trimmings and sides, three of these croakers were more
than we could eat. I had the leftover flets for lunch the next day. The bottom line: it
wasnt founder, but it made a meal. More importantly, the three croakers completed a
fshing trip that would have otherwise been a dismal skunk.
So, if you have fshing trips where you cant catch the species that youre targeting,
dont give up without looking for something else. Be prepared with the right bait and
tackle that will complete your trip with the tug of at least one fsh on the other end of the
line. Lets face it; a fshing trip without a bite is just a boat ride or a visit to the waters
edge. Be prepared and be an opportunist! It could be the difference between a seafood
dinner and pizza delivery.
riverdancekeith@hotmail.com.
Keith has been a recreational angler on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries for
over 50 years; he fshes weekly from his small boat during the season, and spends his
free time supporting local conservation organizations.
Fight the Skunk!
Keith with two big croakers. They arent the founder he was
looking for, but hey, at least they aint skunk.
A prime location on Solomons Island between Back Creek and
St. John Creek right off the Patuxent River
The deep-water Calvert Marina with direct access to the Chesapeake Bay
Every home at The Harbours at Solomons Island is built with a host
of highly desirable standard features, including:
Generous rst-oor owners suites Open, well-designed oor plans
Gourmet kitchens with granite countertops 2-car garages
Hardwood oors Plenty of expandable space
Convenient laundry rooms Maintenance free lawn care
MHBR #5718
Open: daily 11-6.
Directions: Coming from Prince Frederick Take route MD-4 / 2 South for 17.8 miles, turn left on
Dowell Rd. Continue to follow Dowell Rd. to The Harbours at Solomons Island on the right.
Coming from Route 5 / 235 Take route MD 4 North, cross the Patuxent River bridge. Continue to
follow MD-4 North for 1.5 miles. Turn right on Dowell Rd. to The Harbours at Solomons Island.
An Active Adult Community
www.LiveAtSolomonsIsland.com / 888-814-3330
www.TritonWoodsHomes.com / 410-798-5871
Single Family Homes
from the $400s
in Solomons, MD
Single Family Homes
from the $500s minutes
from Annapolis, MD
Brokers Welcome Classic Community Companies
Open: daily 11-6.
Directions: Follow MD Rt. 2 (Solomons Island Rd.) north toward Annapolis. Turn right onto Rt. 214 E.
(Central Ave.). Bear left onto Shoreham Beach Rd. when Central Ave. becomes Shoreham Beach Rd.
Turn right onto Sundee Dr. and right onto Sweet Leaf Lane into the community.
Features of these beautiful home include:
4 bedrooms/2.5 bath homes 2 to 3-car garages Private rst-oor study
Bright and open gourmet kitchen with center island and large
breakfast area
Luxurious Owners Suite with dual walk-in closets
Close to marinas, boat launches and Beverly-Triton Beach Park
Only 12 minutes from Annapolis
LIVE IN A
CLASSIC STYLE.
Visit our furnished models at both communities!
Naval Air Station Patuxent River re-
cently hosted the fourth annual NAVAIR
Women Moving Forward Symposium,
which was attended by approximately 300
women at the Rivers Edge conference cen-
ter on base.
Speakers at the symposium included
Lois Frankel, the author of Nice Girls
Just Dont Get It, ABCs Good Morning
America legal analyst Dan Abrams and an
open panel discussion.
Teresa Heisler, an attendee of the sym-
posium, said she was looking for ideas to
utilize [her] talents to a greater degree
and get ahead in her profession.
Kelly Windsor said this was her frst
time at the Women Moving Forward Sym-
posium, and she signed up because she
thought the speakers and subject matter
sounded interesting. She said shes looking
for a way to fnd a balance as a working
mom, and break through the barriers
that are part of stereotypes of women in the
workplace.
The 2011 NAVAIR Women Moving
Forward award recipient was Karen Frech.
She is an Electronics Engineer at NAS
Patuxent River. She was recognized for her
outstanding performance and contributions
in her engineering career and local educa-
tional opportunities that she has provided
to students through the Navys Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
(STEM) program, according to information
supplied by the symposium.
In 2008 the Naval Air Systems Com-
mand and the Naval Sea Systems Command
joined forces to develop the frst Women
Moving Forward Symposium in La Plata.
The NAVAIR Womens Symposium grew
from that event to one that is solely created
by NAVAIR. The event grew from recogni-
tion of the lack of participation by women
in non-traditional careers. The participation
by women and young girls in STEM pro-
grams was another motivator, information
from the symposium reads.
Women continue to see declines in
these areas even as they are receiving more
degrees than men from colleges; they are
choosing to go into felds other than STEM,
the information reads. The event is an op-
portunity to bring attention to these areas of
low participation as well as a way for wom-
en to learn from the experiences of strong
role models; create a sense of community;
and cultivate mentoring relationships. By
Sarah Miller (CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net
Symposium Focuses on
Women in the Workplace
Lois Frankel, the author of Nice Girls Just Dont Get It, addressed the women at the symposium.
The classic Peanuts characters Linus, Lucy,
Schroeder, Sally, Snoopy and Charlie Brown are
brought to life on the Three Notch Theatre in the
Newtowne Players fnal performance of the sea-
son Youre a Good Man, Charlie Brown, by
Clark Gesner.
I like to think of it like a Pixar movie, said
Ryan Hancock, who plays Charlie Brown.
Like in Pixar flms, Hancock said there is a
little bit of something for children and adults alike
in Youre a Good Man, Charlie Brown.
Though the actors range in age from high
school juniors to college students and graduates
and even a mother with children, they have no
trouble bringing to life the characters they portray,
whose ages range from 5 to 8.
Several times during the play, the children
grapple with adult topics, like approaching a
person they have a crush on, dealing with hard
truths about their personalities and negative self
images, though the actors never seem to forget that
theyre playing children, and making the audience
believe that children would come to the conclu-
sions in the play.
Stacey Park, who plays Sally, said she watched
her own young children and how they interacted
with their world and each other to get acting advice
for her 5-year-old character.
Hancock said the play is a way for the actors
to reconnect to childhood and get in touch with
their inner children. Being in touch with his inner
child may be what allows Hancock to dispense
sage wisdom, like the fact that peanut butter is the
food of loneliness, completely dead-pan, and still
be funny.
Of course, the crew keeps the show cheer-
ful with pieces like Beethoven Day, when the
kids declare a new holiday to be celebrated on
Beethovens birthday, and Little Known Facts
when Lucy, played by Stephanie Laut, decides
to teach her brother Linus, played by Billy
Borst, some basic, if
inaccurate, facts of life.
Bradley Silvestro steals the show in his por-
trayal of Snoopy, whether it be through his antics in
the background and chasing rabbits with Sally, or
in his solos in The Red Baron and Suppertime.
The auditions for Youre a Good Man, Char-
lie Brown were interesting. Park said she still has
scars on her knees from the choreography, and
each actor had to perform a 24 bar dance and per-
form solos for the characters they wanted to play.
They also ran scenes, and the cast was narrowed
down to what it is now.
Director Missy Bell said some of the biggest
challenges came not from the songs and choreog-
raphy, but from the air conditioning not working
during one rehearsal, causing them to cancel re-
hersals for the night, a power outage on another
night and the turning panels that make up the
backdrop not working properly, all problems that
have been addressed. Hiccups aside, Bell said the
rehearsals went smoothly.
The actors agree that Youre a good man,
Charlie Brown, is a play that will remain relevant
in the coming years.
The emotive power behind it is timeless,
said Tony Oblen, who plays Schroeder.
For some of the actors, the play is a way for
them to portray characters they a know and love.
In Parks case, she said she has been following
Charlie Brown since she was a child, and even had
a Peanuts themed birthday party.
Peanuts has always been a part of my life,
Park said.
For more information, or to reserve tickets,
visit www.newtowneplayers.org. The play opens
July 30 at 8 p.m. and will run through Aug. 14,
with matinees at 3:30 p.m. on Sundays. By Sarah
Miller (CT) sarahmiller@countytimes.net
Good Grief!
Peanuts Characters Come to Life
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2011 08 04 Socg

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