Chesapeake Current 020713

Current Chesapeake

February 7, 2013

Priceless

Proudly Serving Calvert and Anne Arundel Counties

Fresh, New Ideas for Your Valentine!

Page 12 First 2013 Murder

County Executive Pleads Guilty

The “No Bullies” Club

Story Page 3

Story Page 4

Story Page 21

Be My Valentine!

BUY LOCAL - BUY BBG Visit the businesses listed below for the best in local products and services:

What’s better than a heart-shaped box of chocolates? What’s more thoughtful than a bejeweled card? In this issue of the Chesapeake Current, we give you a Buy Local Guide for making Feb. 14 extra-special for your loved one! Story Page 12…

She’s a Trail Blazer

Check out the new BBG Web Site! www.BayBusinessGroup.org Joining the BBG is the best investment you can make in your company for 2013!

See your ad here for a low, low price!

Call (410) 231-0140 today!

The Pat Giardina Carpenter Women in Business Fund Dedicated to helping women achieve their dreams.

Providing funding for vocational training, college courses, and projects for women-owned businesses.

Now accepting tax-deductible donations.

Doris Cammack Spencer of Chesapeake Beach (left) receives the Trail Blazer Award from the Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), the Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE), and the Greater Baltimore Black Chamber of Commerce (GBBCC) at a recent ceremony in Annapolis. Cammack Spencer was honored for founding the Southern Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce (SMBCC) last year representing Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s Counties. The SMBCC is now expanding to cover businesses in southern Prince George’s County as well. Pictured with Doris is Lance Lucas, President of the BGGCC and owner of Digit All Systems, along with State Del. Barbara A. Robinson representing District 40 in Baltimore City. Photo by Logan H. James.

Want Your Own Home?

Bay Business Group P.O. Box 858 North Beach, MD 20714

Do you have a yearly income of $37,000 $54,000 and lived in Calvert County for the past year?

Are you committed to paying a reasonable monthly mortgage? Will you help in the construction of your home? If you answered “yes” to all these questions, Patuxent Habitat for Humanity invites you to an Application Orientation Workshop on Sun. Feb. 10 from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 11000 H.G. Trueman Rd., Lusby. Call to register (reservations are required): (301) 863-6227 or (410) 326-9050. Tell them you saw it in the Chesapeake Current! For more info, visit their web site at patuxenthabitat.org.

3 9 10 12 14 16 20 21 22

2

Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

Also Inside

Community On the Water Taking Care of Business Cover Story Letters Remembering Family & Friends Business Directory Pride and Joy Current Events

Man Accused of Stabbing Girlfriend Acting on concerns from her family, local authorities have discovered a young woman dead, apparently killed during an argument with her live-in boyfriend.

On January 31, 2013 at 8:11 pm, the Maryland State Police Barrack in Prince Frederick received a call from concerned family members regarding the whereabouts of Amanda Lynn Foster, known as “Mandy,” age 27, of Lusby. Foster’s family had not heard from her in several weeks and attempts to contact her by phone were unsuccessful.

Amanda “Mandy” Foster.

Det. Sergeant and Asst. Commander Albert Paton of Maryland State Police Barrack U in Prince Frederick says, “Her grandparents were the ones who called us.

The family had been trying to reach her for a while and all they’d get back were text messages that didn’t sound like they were coming from her. They were worried because they could not reach her, find her. So acting on their tip, we went to the place she was renting where we found some things that led us to be suspicious as well.”

Troopers responded to her residence on San Jose Lane in Lusby to contact her and check her welfare. No one was at the residence, however the Troopers learned that Foster’s truck was observed parked at a residence on HG Trueman Road in Lusby.

Troopers responded to that residence and found Foster’s boyfriend, John Warren Gibson, Jr., age 25, of Lusby had been driving her truck around.

Gibson first advised that he had dropped Foster off at a convenience store in California, MD in St. Mary’s County on January 30 and had not heard from her since.

Paton says, “His story didn’t seem right with us, the things he said, so we proceeded with investigation, seized the truck, and got the CIT (Calvert Investigative Team) involved.”

Detective Rich from the Calvert Investigative Team was called to assist in the investigation.

Based on conflicting information discovered in Gibson’s account of the events, he was then taken to the CIT offices for questioning. Additional CIT

personnel, Sgt. Jones, Sgt. Naughton, Trooper First Class Hunt and Detective Mudd were called to assist in conducting follow up investigation.

Paton says during that interview, Gibson broke down and admitted he stabbed her to death during an argument at their basement apartment in Lusby.

“He advised that he put her body into one of those large outdoor trash cans, loaded it into her truck, and took her body to a wooded area off MD Route 5 south of Leonardtown. He took us to the location where he had left the trash can and that’s where we found her, inside the can,” Paton adds.

Gibson apparently stabbed Foster in the chest on Jan. 12, but her body was not discovered until the morning of Feb 1.

Investigators initially arrested the boyfriend on a murder charge, and Paton adds that additional possible charges against him may be filed through the State Prosecutor’s Office in Prince Frederick. Authorities are also awaiting autopsy results from Baltimore.

Paton says, “We believe he acted alone in the killing. But we are looking into the possibility that he may have had some help in disposing of the body, or at least some others may have known about what happened. We’re looking into that possibility now – we’re not sure.”

Sheriff Mike Evans told us, “It’s a real tragedy, another domestic tragedy.”

Calvert County’s only homicide last year was the murder-suicide in Owings in which Frank Hayward Jr. killed his wife, Cynthia and their two-year-old daughter, Natalee Hayward. Their son, Frank Hayward III, also known as Frankie, was seriously injured but survived his father’s rampage.

Paton said from information they have gathered, Foster and Gibson had just started dating last August. He said there’s no police documentation of prior domestic abuse with the couple, however, he adds, “that does not mean there was no history. It means that we (the police) were not called.”

John Warren Gibson.

In 2008 and again in November 2012, Gibson was arrested on drug charges in St. Mary’s County and also had a long line of traffic violations on his record.

Detective Rich of CCSO and Sgt. Jones of MSP are continuing the investigation at this time. Anyone with additional information can contact them at (410) 535-1600 ext. 2765 or 2455.

Controversy Over Types of “Homes” With a growing number of small-scale assisted living homes and other types of care facilities popping up in residential neighborhoods, the Board of Calvert County Commissioners (BOCC) is considering new regulations and definitions.

At the BOCC meeting on Feb 5, members heard a staff report outlining changes to the Calvert County Zoning ordinance. But with the discussions come many levels of controversy.

The issue has come up in response to concerns from residents about commercial uses of homes in residential areas. This has prompted the county to look into redefining “Group Homes” and “Assisted Living Facilities” to reflect the state definitions. And in doing this, staff discovered that the state now also defines three other categories: Care Homes, Shelters, and Transitional Housing.

Group Homes are currently defined as a “community-based living facility offering family or home-like environment for up to 16 people who need assistance or care in some form (e.g. seniors, disabled, etc.).” Group Homes are conditionally permitted in Farm & Forest (FFD) Rural Community (RCD), Residential (RD) Historic (HD) and Rural Commercial (RC) zoning districts.

Assisted Living Facilities are currently defined as “Group Homes with more than 16 residents” and are permitted in most town centers but only in the RD by special exception.

However, the number of residents would be reduced from 16 to eight who need assistance in performing the activities of daily living.

Under state law and proposed new county law, the new Care Homes would be allowed up to four residents providing them with supportive housing arrangements, community resources and protective oversight. Care homes could cover the elderly in an abusive situation or when family members are found to be taking advantage of them. The goal is to protect the residents either physically, financially or both.

These Care Homes would be allowed in zoning districts where Group Homes are now allowed and in Town Center districts.

A Group Home serves four to eight residents needing specialized living arrangements because of a disability.

There’s no limit to the number of people allowed in a Shelter, but instead the number is based on the number of beds provided.

Transitional Housing is one family living for up to two years in a residence until they can get back on their feet, with no limit on the number of residents. These would be allowed as residential housing with no conditions.

The county has two existing shelters in the Prince Frederick Town Center: Project Echo, which has 40 beds and two transitional housing units, and Safe Harbor which provides shelter for 25 abused women and their children.

The changes proposed to Assisted Living and Care Homes include: an owner/operator lives on the premises an occupancy permit for such use be obtained the facility operates within applicable State and Federal requirements Also, many of these types of homes can

Chesapeake Current

only have one kitchen.

Maureen Hoffman, Director of Community Resources said, “I know this sounds like a puzzle gone wild.”

After hearing all this, Commissioner Evan Slaughenhoupt commented, “The original intention was one thing, but now we’re dealing with a lot of alligators swimming around. The question we asked staff to address was: How do we prevent commercial activity, a business that has impact on residential neighborhoods?

That the owner/operator must live on the property? Where are you addressing the original concern: expansion of businesses?”

He said having these types of facilities in residential neighborhoods could also have an impact on home values. “It doesn’t take long in a small neighborhood, and now it’s a small business park. So how many can you have in a geographical area?”

Commissioner Jerry Clark added, “What is too much? What is too intense? We asked you to dial down the volume, that’s what we’re trying to do here.”

Clark then asked, “What about the guy who has a basement and puts three bedrooms down there and rents them out for $50 or $100 a week to someone who just got out of jail?

Does he just have three roommates and using that money to cover his mortgage? Or does he have one of these places?”

Community Planning and Building Director Chuck Johnston answered, “We have laws covering the number of boarders allowed.

If they need daily help with living, then it’s an assisted living facility.”

Commissioner Susan Shaw asked the staff, “Going from 16 to 8 residents - does that address the problem? You have not addressed the problem. This is creating problems in my opinion for the 13 assisted living homes that we have currently, then another 14 or 15 group homes.”

Shaw said, “Group homes are not necessarily for people who are developmentally disabled.” And she added, “The way many people in Calvert County can live is because they have roommates.”

“This is not well-thought through. We have a really big philosophical difference.

Programs that have operated for 30 years without problems are being put at risk and you’ve not solved original problem,” Shaw said.

“You’ve missed the point. You’ve taken a round peg and try to put into a square hole.”

Shaw concluded, “We don’t want to go back to the days when we stigmatized people.

Mental illness, developmentally disabled, substance abuse recovery – there used to be tremendous stigma. For 30 years, we’ve had homes in this county in residential communities, subdivisions for people with developmental disabilities, people in crisis, we have had that with no problems. Now you want to go back and classify everybody? It was a home for people instead of having them institutionalized. You pass this and we’re going to have people out on the street.”

BOCC President Pat Nutter asked to defer the issue to a later date, saying, “We don’t want to create more problems than we solve.”

That motion was approved 5-0.

Thursday, February 7, 2013

3

Beach Brings Skating Back Sharpen your blades. Skating is coming back.

The Town of North Beach will again set up a synthetic “ice” skating rink Fri. Feb. 8 – Sun. Feb 10. But instead of being at the T-section at the end of the pier, the rink will be at the bandstand along Bay Avenue between 3rd and 5th Streets.

The Town Council decided at its January meeting to rent the rink for a second time from Fantasy World Entertainment of Prince Frederick after reviewing numbers from the first weekend, Jan. 4 – Jan. 6. The cost of the rink rental was $5,790 plus staff payroll of $3,200 for a total of $8,990 for the weekend. Overnight protection of the 24’ x 40’ plexiglass rink by town personnel was a requirement in the the vendor contract.

A total of 735 skaters were counted, along with 657 skate rentals, bringing in $5,646 for the weekend. Admission was $5 per person, and skate rental was $3.

The consensus among younger skaters was that it was a blast. Some of the older, more experienced skaters commented that they felt the rink wasn’t big enough, was too crowded, and not an ideal skating surface.

Mayor Mark Frazer commented, “I have the feeling it was enormously positive.” But before purchasing the set-up and the town managing it alone, he said he wanted to see if it was the novelty of it or it was truly a success and suggested setting up the rink again Feb. 8, 9 and 10.

Councilmen Greg McNeill and Gregg Dotson expressed concerns about the cost, a

more than $3,300 deficit, and the fact that town money was being spent on it.

Councilman Randy Hummel said, “Yes it’s town money, but it’s generated by out of county visitors to the beach. If you start looking at (town) events, not a lot of them break even.”

The final vote was 5 to 1 to bring the skating back a second time, with Dotson casting the no vote. ***** The North Beach Performing Arts Center (PAC) will hold a meeting on Fri., Feb. 8, at 10:00 a.m. at Town Hall. During the meeting, there will be discussions on town history, planning, zoning, design guidelines/standards, the PAC initiative, and the advantages and disadvantages of proposed sites for the center. In attendance will be students from the University of Maryland architecture program, members of the steering committee for the PAC, a representative from the Bayside History Museum, members of the Twin Beach Players, and more.

This meeting is open to the public.

Search Begins for New County Executive A n n e A r u n d e l County Executive John R. Leopold has submitted his resignation after being convicted by a judge of two counts criminal misconduct in office.

This means the John Leopold.

County Council did not need to vote on his removal. A new law passed by county voters in November allowed elected officials to be removed from office after being found guilty, rather than waiting until they are sentenced.

By voluntarily resigning, this means Leopold gets to keep his $8, 017 a year pension.

His sentencing is scheduled for March 14.

Leopold also served 18 years in the Maryland House of Delegates, and was also in state office in Hawaii for 12 years before that.

Circuit Court Judge Dennis Sweeney in Annapolis found Leopold guilty of two of five counts last week.

Prosecutors accused Leopold of misusing his security detail, which is paid for by the county. Among the accusations: requiring the officers to collect campaign donations, distribute campaign signs and pull up his opponent’s signs, empty urine from his catheter bag, drive him to sex dates with two women who also worked for the county, picking up his clothes at a dry cleaners and taking newspapers to his house in Pasadena.

Leopold was acquitted on one charge related to having two officers guard him while

recovering from two back surgeries at Anne Arundel Medical Center. The judge decided that was not unreasonable. He was also acquitted of fraudulent misappropriation by a fiduciary related to the officers being assigned to the hospital.

Until his replacement is selected, Chief Administrative Officer John Hammond will remain Acting County Executive. County Council next interview candidates for the job.

Requirements for the Office of County Executive are: 1. Registration as a Republican for the 12-month period immediately prior to the election by the County Council; 2. At least 25 years of age; and, 3. A resident of Anne Arundel County for at least four years immediately preceding the election by the County Council.

People interested in the Office of County Executive are asked to submit a resume, to Elizabeth Jones, Administrative Officer to the County Council, no later than noon on February 15. A completed financial disclosure statement and questionnaire will also be required by the deadline. The financial disclosure statement and questionnaire may be found on the Anne Arundel County web site homepage: aacounty.org.

Resume and supporting materials may be mailed to the Office of the County Council, PO Box 2700, Annapolis, MD 21404; hand delivered to 44 Calvert Street, Room 120, Annapolis, MD; emailed to beth.jones@aacounty.org; or faxed to (410) 222-1755.

The County Council will interview candidates and vote on a Resolution to appoint the new County Executive at a public meeting on February 21 at 7:00 P.M.

Get Tickets Now for CMH Benefit

Oyster Special $16.99 NINE BAKED LOCAL MARYLAND OYSTERS STUFFED IN THREE WAYS Crab Imperial, Shrimp Stuffing and Smithfield Ham. Served with onion straws and seasonal vegetables.

AVAILABLE THROUGH FEBRUARY 2013 AT THE ROD ‘N’ REEL RESTAURANT CBRESORTSPA.COM • 866.312.5596 HOTEL ) SPA ) RESTAURANTS ) WEDDINGS ) MEETINGS ) MARINAS ) FISHING ) GAMING

4

Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

Calvert Memorial Hospital Foundation will host a Casino Night benefit on Saturday, March 9 from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. at St. John Vianney Church Vianney Room in Prince Frederick to raise funds for the purchase of state-of-the-art fetal monitors for the hospital’s birth center.

The advanced system will provide Calvert Memorial Hospital (CMH) with the latest technology for measuring fetal well-being and assessing labor progress.

“The new monitors will be a great asset,” says Holly Dooley, director of maternal health services at CMH, “and will provide an extra layer of safety for our patients.”

“As a parent, it’s important to me that our physicians and nurses have the tools they need to provide the best possible care,” said Mark Davis, foundation president.

With the purchase of a $75 ticket, those 21 and older can try their luck at blackjack, Texas Hold’em, roulette and craps provided

by Fantasy World Entertainment while enjoying lite fare by local caterers, beer and wine.

“No worries if you don’t know how to gamble,” said Davis. “With ‘funny money’ and professional croupiers who will teach you the rules of the game – all you need is a little luck.”

You can always purchase more “funny money” if you run out. There are a variety of

CMH Harvest Ball committee members Kathy (center) and Doldon Moore (at right) try their luck at black jack.

sponsorship opportunities for businesses, community and civic organizations as well as community members who want to be a part of Casino Night ranging from $350 to $2,500.

At the end of the evening, guests will be able to convert their “winnings” into tickets that can be entered into a raffle for terrific prizes, worth at least $150 each. Guests can put their tickets in as many or as few raffle drawings as they choose; increasing their chances to win the one they want the most.

Tickets are available by calling the foundation office at (410) 535-8178 or can be purchased online at www.calverthospital.org. The public is welcome and attire for the evening is casual.

KUREK INSURANCE ASSOCIATES INC Family Owned Since 1961

Auto, Business, Home, Individual & Group Health, Liability, Long Term Care, Travel, Umbrella, Workers Compensation Discounts Available for Eligible Persons 50 & over Save by combining your auto & home insurance in one package Ask Us How to Save Money on your Business Insurance Call Today for A No-Obligation Insurance Review or Quote

By Susan Shaw Calvert County Commissioner XOXO for VFDs Valentine’s Day is approaching!

Now is a good time to be upbeat and positive.

I have written in the past about the many blessings for which we can be thankful in Calvert County.

It is the season for attending Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad Award Banquets where the departments recognize their members and celebrate their accomplishments for the previous year. We County Commissioners have the opportunity to thank our dedicated local volunteers for their service to us all as we are reminded that everyday citizens and community members, our neighbors and co-workers, choose to devote their time and attention to training that prepares them to become extraordinary when a crisis arrives.

Solomons Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department (SVRSFD) holds their Awards Banquet first in mid-January.

Arriving for the 50th Anniversary of the volunteer fire service in Solomons, I found the equipment bay area, with new heating, had been transformed into a fancy and roomy seating area worthy of marking a significant milestone.

Other facility changes and upgrades reflected the department’s pride in itself and its changing face. The presence of member Simon Thomas, recovering from serious injuries, added more cause for celebration. Solomons is a very busy department, running numerous calls per day.

Commissioners Clark and Weems reflected on the history of SVRSFD, which was once located in the current Laughing Buddha

Restaurant. I pointed out that some facets do not change, namely, the commitment to get the apparatus out on the road to assist fellow citizens in need. Many families have a family tradition of service to one or more of our departments. It is amazing what our trained volunteers can do and what the women and men of the SVRSFD did do under the leadership of Chief Jim Taylor and President Renee Crampton.

Ranging in age from young to very seasoned, they worked together as teams to make eight life saves ranging from CPR to closed airways.

Four people were presented Medals of Valor for saving their fellow department members during a dangerous fire with a collapsed floor.

At a recent County Commissioner’s meeting, purchases of four new pieces of equipment for SVRSFD were authorized including a command vehicle, a tanker, and two engines.

Most of the equipment replaced was well over 20 years old, was outdated, and had seen heavy service meeting the criteria for replacement. This use of taxpayer dollars means the equipment that the volunteers need to respond to your emergency will be reliable and ready.

Returning to the Valentine’s Day theme, a year in review video at the SVRSFD banquet ended with a marriage proposal from a member to his beloved. (Yes, she accepted.) As we look forward to the upcoming awards banquets of our other departments, with their own stories of life-saving valor, let’s honor ALL our fire and rescue volunteers with a big Valentine signed with XXOO.

301-805-6900 410-741-1900

Your Independent Insurance Agent Jayne Hopkins, CIC jhopkins@kurekinsurance.com

Custom Electrical Service Full-service electrical contractor, dedicated to customer satisfaction.

Master Electrician with 35 years experience as an Electrical Contractor.

Specializing in Commercial / Industrial / Residential / Maintenance / Service and Repair

Edward L. Turner, Jr. President / Owner 301-399-2371 Cell 301-855-9763 Office

We have a reputation for quality work and professionalism.

Big or small, we will be happy to help you with all of your electrical needs.

Located Southern Maryland, licensed and insured in MD and VA.

Chesapeake Current

Thursday, February 7, 2013

5

100% OF PROCEEDS GO TO FRIENDS OF JUG BAY

New Current Column:

South County Views

By Bea Poulin

...IS IN YOUR BACKYARD?

Hosted by Greenstreet Gardens of Maryland

— Saturday, February 16th, 2013 — $4.00 Per Person

10:30 am Mark Wild Turkey Tayac of the Piscataway Indian Nation 11:30 am Show performed by Raptors Eye, featuring local owl species 12:30 pm Craft time Kids Make-N-Take Crafts Lunch Available: All proceeds go to Friends of Jug Bay Learn about Native Culture and Dance See Live Animals Native American Craft Items This event is at our Maryland Store — BRING YOUR CAMERAS! —

7EST "AY &RONT 2OAD ,OTHIAN -ARYLAND s s WWW 'REENSTREET'ARDENS COM

Honey’s Harvest 410-257-7757 7150 Lake Shore Drive Rose Haven, MD HoneysHarvest.com Herrington Harbour South

Starting Monday, February 4th Market Hours

Sunday-Thursday, 8am-7pm Friday & Saturday, 8am-8pm

Deli Hours

Mon - Thur, 10am-3pm Friday, 10am-8pm Saturday, 8am-8pm Sunday, 8am-3pm

Features

Pizza Friday, 11am-8pm Slider Saturday, 4pm-8pm

New! Starting Saturday, February 9th

Slider Saturday!

4pm - 8pm

Honey’s will now be serving Dinner on Saturdays!

Featuring Delicious Sliders and Handmade Milkshakes

6

Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

It all started with a public meeting about a dangerous road, and what were the local elected officials going to do to bring an end to the high number of fatalities along it. Some three hundred people showed up that night to express their dissatisfaction with the status quo. I attended as one of those fed-up citizens who demanded road improvements and more vigilance by the local police. After the meeting was over, I spoke to the county’s representative about the problems with the road, and the next day, we met again to talk. Two weeks later, I started a new job as a community and constituent services specialist in the County Executive’s Office working with citizens in Southern Arundel (South) County.

That was over 12 years ago, and today I am still working with citizens through Anne Arundel County Executive’s Office of Community & Constituent Services.

The road – two miles of Shady Side Road/Maryland Route 468 was improved to the tune of several million dollars by the State of Maryland thanks to the efforts of the President of the Senate, Mike Miller who must have been impressed by the turnout and convictions of 300 citizens.

I, too, am impressed and stand in awe when citizens get the attention of their elected officials, and make something big happen. It really is the power of our democracy. The people’s voice does sometimes get in the way of our elected officials, but it is really up to us to remind them that we are footing the bill, and we need to see something tangible that makes a difference for those dollars.

Sometimes, it’s a smaller group of citizens that accomplish the near impossible.

A core group of environmentalists, bureaucrats, and developers have been working on a way to fund repairs and restoration of hundreds of miles of stormwater drainage systems locally and statewide. Why? Because there is not enough money in today’s constrained public works budgets to begin to rectify the backlog of stormwater related damage to antiquated infrastructure, mostly affecting older communities.

What is the problem exactly? There are many examples in South County.

Several older neighborhoods with 1930’s era drainage swales or ditches all have

major problems during normal rain events not to mention tropical storms and downpours. Stormwater piles up creating rivers in street-side swales that overflow and turn yards and streets into lakes. It also results in sending tons of pollution and nutrients to local streambeds that feed the Chesapeake Bay. The fund idea is new to the Chesapeake region, but exists in other states. Create a fund to which property owners pay a fee that is derived from the percentage of impervious surface on their property. That fee will pay for capital projects to redesign drainage systems with the goal to decrease the volume of nutrients polluting the Chesapeake Bay. It has been tough to get elected officials to support it until now. In 2012 the State of Maryland passed a law that required counties to establish a method to collect funds to pay for stormwater management infrastructure improvements. It’s what counties call an unfunded mandate.

Here in Anne Arundel County, experts figured out the costs and what it would take to start the fund. On January 17, the County Administration introduced the Watershed and Restoration and Protection Act of 2013 to the County Council. The proposed legislation will generate an estimated $26.5 million in 2014. The legislation describes a three-tiered annual payment for residential and commercial properties.

It also includes exemptions for unimproved property and financial hardship. The legislation will have its public hearing on February 19 before the Anne Arundel County Council. You can view it in its entirety at aacounty.org/CountyCouncil/Resources/ 2013/2-13.pdf or scan the Current Code with your smart phone.

We will all have to pay something even if your neighborhood doesn’t need a restoration project, but somewhere in Anne Arundel a stormwater system will be improved one project at a time. I like that - another grassroots idea grown by citizens knee deep in stormwater.

About the Author: Bea Poulin has resided in Shady Side, MD for 29 years with her husband. For the past 12 years she has served as a community specialist for South County in the County Executive’s Office of Community & Constituent Services. Bea is the founding President of the Muddy Creek Artists Guild that represents over 120 local artists. She also serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Anne Arundel Community Action Agency, Inc.

Vindication?

By Nick Garrett No one ever suggested that Delegate Thomas A. Rymer’s (1970-1987) bill to create five county commissioner districts was wrong or ill suited.

However in recent years it was questioned as possibly being outdated.

But is it?

Discussions took place at various levels of government. Citizens were polled, and people formed their own perspective on whether or not it should change to a more modern system. And a recent vote by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) struck down the idea of changing the long-held process for electing County Commissioners.

Two years of deliberations and a questionnaire sent home to citizens were the basis. Each commissioner had their reasons for voting the way they did. Commissioners President Pat Nutter, for example, who opposed the change from the beginning, described a careful process of consideration showing that a majority of voters wanted the system kept the same. Striking down the proposition, Nutter was joined by Commissioners Slaughenhoupt, (District 3) and Commissioner Jerry Clark, (District 1).

The simple fact is that voters understand more then government realized. Now with the suggestion to change the system struck down, the genius of Tom Rymer’s vision even 30 to 40 years after the fact proves prescient: we already have the system that is just right for us. And only 10,000 – 16,000 votes separate the candidate from the office.

Some have recently called it downright confusing, while others speculate about the origin of what they term a “convoluted” system. But most people do support it.

Former Commissioner Barbara Stinnett knew too well the pain it can cause. She won the popular vote over Mark Frazer, but lost due to the way the districts are structured. This same system benefited her years later when she ran and won a seat.

In the 1960s, Calvert County was still comprised of farms and bayside communities; however, with a growing population of over 18,000, the government began to explore the issue of Charter Government as their neighbors in surrounding counties had done. Essentially, Charter Government would give Calvert more authority to enact its own local laws without having to petition the State Legislature as it had up to that point, and currently does.

By the mid to late 70’s, successive commissions had compiled studies and provided recommendations to the BOCC, at that time three commissioners strong. In 1974, the question of Charter Government had failed as a ballot question when presented to voters.

At that time, Del. Rymer and State Senator Ed Hall reviewed several of the findings. Of particular note was the suggestion that Calvert County raise its number of Commissioners from three to five based on population. Senator Hall, for whom Calvert County’s Aquatic Center is named, introduced a bill in the State Senate that provided for a five commissioner election system that would allow candidates to run county wide for President of the Board, Vice President of the Board, and then other candidates would run for one district seat for each of the three districts.

At the same time, Del. Rymer introduced a bill in the House that would create a five-commissioner system as well. In Del. Rymer’s bill, of the five available seats, the top vote getters in each of the three election districts would win the district seat, with the other two candidates winning

at large (county-wide) seats.

As the two leaders exchanged ideas and presented their positions to the residents back home, several questions arose. How would either of the bills apply if passed? As Calvert County’s population grew, it did not grow evenly across the entire county and population centers sprouted only in certain areas. How could they create the system to accommodate five commissioners instead of three while still making sure that each district had equal representation? In other words, how could voters ensure that each commissioner, once elected, would represent the entire county and not just his or her district? If one Commissioner is from Huntingtown and wants resources to benefit that area, how could that Commissioner remain motivated about Solomons?

The ideas presented in Senator Hall’s bill were popular with some constituents, but left three challenges unresolved. If a candidate can run for President of the Board and the other candidates that win do not get along with the new President, it would be difficult to accomplish much. Delegate Rymer could recall situations in other parts of the Country where this had occurred. Further, how do you prevent the most popular candidates from all running for President and Vice President of the Board and no one for the other seats?

Delegate Rymer’s bill provided that the Board President and Vice President would be selected from the new commissioners once the voters had elected the five. Choosing their own President and Vice President gave them the opportunity to best choose how they would work together. If it didn’t work out, they could simply change Presidents. The bill also made it so that each of the county’s three districts would be represented.

By the end of the 1977 legislative session, support for Delegate Rymer’s bill led Senator Hall to pass it in the Senate.

Regardless of our opinions, it is clear that this highlights a process that is missing and is sorely needed in today’s politics. Senator Hall and Delegate Rymer, a Republican and a Democrat, began their journey with different ideas. They talked amongst themselves, presented their views to constituents, solicited input from local community groups, and finally came together to do what was in the long-term best interest of the county.

As the population continues to grow, our system ensures that each candidate has to run countywide, each candidate has two chances to win thus the most popular candidates have two chances to get elected and each of the three election districts ends up with an advocate on the BOCC. This particular issue proves that Calvert County’s design was planned well by a special generation of experts such as Tom Rymer, Ed Hall, Bernie Fowler, Roy Dyson, George Owings III, and Mike Miller, not to mention the various county commissioners who put the framework in place for a county that consistently ranks in the top categories at the state and national level. Perhaps one thing that needs to change, though, is that Calvert needs to have the authority to govern its own affairs without having to go the State so often.

Perhaps some leaders in the future will have the ability to pull this off. We can only hope so before mandates from the state push Calvert County into ill repair.

About the Author: Nick Garrett is the owner of The Garrett Music Academy in Owings, a published author, and has served and continues to serve on various boards and commissions in Calvert County. He and his wife Krista have twin daughters, Juliette and Charlotte.

Chesapeake Current

Thursday, February 7, 2013

7

developed and investigation continues.

Police Blotter Calvert County Sheriff’s Department Reports: Destruction of Property The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a rash of tire slashings that occurred between Jan. 23 and 25 in the town of North Beach. A total of 47 victims had 77 vehicles that had 134 tires slashed or punctured.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dep. C. Fox at (410) 535-2800.

Counterfeit Currency A clerk at the Lusby Fastop on H.G. Trueman Road called police Jan. 23 at 4:45 p.m. after a man tried to pay for gas using a counterfeit $20 bill. Cpl. A. Moschetto arrived and made contact with the man, later identified as William Joseph Marshall, age 28, of Lusby. Marshall initially advised that he didn’t realize the currency was fake; however, he then changed his story and said another man he knew had been making the counterfeit money and had left the paper used to make the bills at his house. Marshall then offered to show officers the paper at his house.

Moschetto then accompanied Marshall to his house where the paper used to print the counterfeit bills was located. Marshall was arrested and charged with making currency image with the intent to defraud and possessing/issuing forged currency.

On Jan. 22 at 6:54 a.m., Trooper Matthews responded to the 3800 block of 7th St. in North Beach for a reported burglary and trespassing.

Casey P. Fleming, age 20 of Chesapeake Beach, and David L. Deville, age 23 of Upper Marlboro, were located in the vacant house. They did not have permission from the owner to be in the residence. They were both arrested and incarcerThefts from Vehicles Between Jan. 27 and 28, someone stole a CD head ated at the Calvert County Detention Center. unit from a vehicle that was parked outside a business on Prospect Lane in Huntingtown. A DUI & Resisting Arrest window had been broken to gain entry inside the Trooper Oles stopped a vehicle at Rt. 4 and vehicle. A Coach motor home had also been Rousby Hall Rd. in Lusby for traffic violations on broken into and ransacked. It is unknown if Jan. 30 at 11:27 p.m. Joseph E. Solan, age 42 of anything was stolen. Total damage to the two Lothian was arrested for DUI. During the traffic vehicles is estimated at $3,500. DFC N. stop, Solan became defiant resulting in additional charges for resisting arrest. He was charged and Funchion is investigating. released.

A victim in the 9400 block of Old Jones Road in Dunkirk advised DFC N. Funchion that in the Thefts early morning hours of Feb. 2, someone entered On Feb. 2 at 1:43 a.m., Trooper S. Lewis two unlocked vehicles in his driveway and stole 2 responded to the 12600 block of Mill Creek Rd. in IPOD’s, cash and a Dell laptop.

Upon Lusby for a reported theft. The victim reported investigation, DFC Funchion observed footprints that an X Box 360, games and accessories were in the snow around numerous other homes in the removed from the residence. Investigation continarea of Old Jones Road, Hewitt Court, and Kenni ues.

Lane. The footprints usually led up to vehicles or sheds that were locked and not entered. DFC Trooper First Class Saucerman responded to the 2500 block of Sharon Rd. in Sunderland for a Funchion is continuing the investigation. theft on Feb. 1 at 4:26 p.m. The victim reported Someone stole over $200 worth of property from that a 40-inch Sharpe Aquas television had been an unlocked vehicle parked in the driveway of a taken from the residence. Investigation continues. home in the 3800 block of 7th Street in North Beach. Dep. J. Migliaccio is investigating the theft DUI & Possession of Marijuana of an Eastport backpack, a bucket full of various Trooper First Class Sorenson stopped a vehicle at tools, a book and prescription drugs, which Rt. 2 north of Rt. 4 in Sunderland for traffic occurred between Jan. 21 and 24.

CDS Violations On Feb. 2 at 8:27 p.m. Dep. P. Mosely conducted a traffic stop on a Nissan vehicle that had exited a parking lot of a business onto MD Rt. 4 and cut directly in front of on-coming traffic, causing another vehicle to have to almost come to a stop to avoid hitting the Nissan. Mosely made contact with the Nissan driver, identified as Jamal Tyrell Lee, age 23 of Bowie, who was in possession of William Joseph Marshall suspected drugs. Lee was charged with possession Burglaries of more than 10 grams of marijuana. He was also A homeowner in the 3500 block of King Drive in cited a traffic warning for failure to failure to grant Dunkirk advised Dep. M. Quinn that on January 22 right of way. between 11:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. someone entered her home by breaking a window. Approximately On Jan. 28 at 1:15 a.m. after responding to a call $3,400 worth of jewelry was stolen. The case is for a suspicious vehicle on Persimmon Hills Court under investigation. in Sunderland, DFC R. Kreps made contact with the driver, later identified as Christopher Stephen A homeowner in the 800 block of San Mateo Trail Paul, age 20, of Sunderland. Paul was found to be in Lusby reported to DFC R. Weems that unknown in possession of marijuana less than 10 grams and suspect(s) had broken into his home on January 23 was arrested. between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. and stolen an Insignia 42 inch flat screen television, a A 16-year-old male from North Beach was Dell laptop computer, and Xbox 360 game console charged on a youth report with possession of and eight Xbox games, altogether valued at $1,610. marijuana on Jan. 24 at 2:06 p.m. after DFC J. Anyone with information is asked to contact DFC Norton stopped the car he was a passenger in for Weems at (410) 535-2800. speeding at 7th Street and Madison Avenue in North Beach. The juvenile was released to a Thefts parent.

Unknown suspect(s) stole $7,000 in cash and a gold coin from a home in the 2600 block of Plum Point On Jan. 25 at 11:56 p.m. Dep. A. Mohler Road in Huntingtown sometime between October conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on Steeple 12 and January 23. The owner advised that he Chase Drive in Prince Frederick. He found the sometimes leaves the house unlocked so is unsure driver, Glen Preston Baldwin, age 30, of Prince when the theft occurred. Det. M. Mudd is Frederick, to be in possession of suspected drugs. investigating.

Baldwin was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana, less than 10 grams.

Someone forced entry into a detached garage of a home in the 2000 block of Smoky Road in Huntingtown at an unknown date and time and State Police Barrack U Reports: stole a green 2002 Honda 4 wheel All-Terrain Vehicle that is valued at $6,800. Cpl. S. Parrish is Burglaries investigating.

Trooper First Class Smith responded to the 1750 block of Dares Beach Rd. in Prince Frederick for a On Jan. 31 at 7:30 p.m. Cpl. J. McCarroll reported burglary on Jan. 28 at 9:11 a.m. Nine responded to the Dunkirk Walmart store for the dirt bikes were discovered missing from the report of a shoplifter in custody by store employees. victim’s shed. Footprints and tire tracks lead into He arrested Shannon Marie Kirk, age 20, of the wood and five of the bikes were recovered from Chesapeake Beach and charged her with theft less that location. The other four bikes were not than $1,000. Kirk was also found to have an open located. Investigation continues. criminal summons, which was served on her.

On Feb 2 at 1:25 p.m., Senior Trooper Gill Someone stole three copper grounding boards from responded to the 700 block of Lazy River Rd. in the communication junction that belongs to AT&T Lusby for a reported burglary.

Unknown on Skip Jack Road in Prince Frederick. s The copper suspect(s) entered the home and removed a Suzuki is valued at $300 and damage is estimated at $1,000. “Pro Circuit” motorcycle and a .45 caliber Glock Dep. T. Buckler is investigating. handgun. Three possible suspects have been

8

Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

violations on Feb. 3 at 12:26 a.m. Ricky A. Thorne, age 43 of Prince Frederick, was arrested for DUI. During a search to secure the vehicle, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were located.

Thorne was charged with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Possession of Marijuana Trooper First Class West responded to the 12300 block of Algonquin Ct. in Lusby for a reported theft on Feb. 2 at 2:36 p.m. During the investigation, TFC West located marijuana and drug paraphernalia on one of the residents in the home.

Joshua B. McDonald-Cosman, age 26 of Port Republic, was subsequently arrested and charged with possession.

Trooper S. Lewis was investigating a theft from the Prince Frederick 7-11 and confronted Dean Brown, age 63 of Prince Frederick, who was walking along Route 231 shortly after the theft on Jan. 25 at 7:24 p.m. Although Brown was not the theft suspect, he was arrested for being in possession of marijuana. He was charged with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia and released.

Possession of Concealed Weapon On Jan. 27 at 12:18 a.m., Trooper First Class Esnes responded to the 8500 block of Daryl Dr. in Lusby for a report of an intoxicated subject being disorderly. Philip H. Dew 3rd, age 38, of Lusby, was located outside the residence. He was in possession of a ten-inch fixed-blade knife concealed in his waistband behind his back. He was arrested and incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.

Fatal Rollover Claims Young Man Members of the Calvert County Sheriff's Office Crash Reconstruction Team responded to Lower Marlboro Road and Academy Drive in Owings for the report of a vehicle crash with an ejection on Tues. Jan. 22 at approximately 11:16 p.m.

Upon their arrival, they located a 2000 Ford Ranger pick-up truck in the yard of a residence on Lower Marlboro Road.

Through the on-scene-investigation it was determined the operator of the vehicle, Arian Leigh Howard, age 23 of Anne Arundel County, was traveling westbound on Lower Marlboro Road in the area of Academy Drive. As the vehicle entered into the curve the driver lost control for an unknown reason. The vehicle crossed the double yellow line from the

eastbound lane and went off the roadway and became airborne. When it landed, it rolled over several times.

During the rollover, the passenger, Mark Ellis Grace III, age 25 of Owings, was ejected from the vehicle, continued to slide through the yard and came to rest against a tree. Grace was transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital as C.P.R. was in progress. Grace was later transported to Baltimore Shock Trauma where he later died of his in injuries.

Howard was transported to Prince George's Hospital Center.

Authorities say they believe alcohol, speed and driver error may have been contributing factors, although the accident remains under investigation.

Bizarre Spree Lands Man In Jail On Sunday morning, Feb. 3 at approximately 9:48 a.m. Corporal Glen Libby of Calvert County Sheriff’s Office was off duty and traveling south on MD Route 4 in St. Leonard in his marked patrol vehicle. As he approached the intersection of Route 4 and Western Shores Boulevard, he observed three vehicles parked on the shoulder that appeared to have been involved in an accident. Corporal Libby activated his emergency lights and pulled in the behind the vehicles to offer his assistance. At that time, a subject attempted to flee the scene of the accident in his red 1996 GEO Prism.

Corporal Libby then pulled back out on Route 4 to pursue Mr. Arana. Suddenly, Mr. Arana began to make a U-turn in the intersection of Western Shores Boulevard so Corporal Libby stopped his vehicle on Route 4 to prevent passing motorists from striking Mr. Arana’s vehicle.

Mr. Arana then completed his U-turn and deliberately rammed his vehicle head-on into Corporal Libby’s sheriff’s cruiser.

Corporal Libby requested assistance and officers of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police began responding to the scene.

Mr. Arana’s vehicle and Corporal Libby’s

vehicle were both disabled. Mr. Arana exited his onto southbound Route 4. Corporal Libby also exited his vehicle and observed Mr. Arana expose his genitals and urinate on the roadway.

Corporal Jim Wahlgren arrived on the scene moments later and Mr. Arana refused their commands to remove his hands from his pockets and lay down on the ground. As Corporals Libby and Wahlgren moved closer to Mr. Arana, he turned to flee. However, he was quickly subdued by the officers and placed under arrest.

Mr. Arana was treated for his injuries and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he is being held on charges of First and Second Degree Assault, Disorderly Conduct, Indecent Exposure, Reckless Endangerment, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Fleeing and Eluding, and various other traffic offenses.

Furthermore, Mr. Arana could face deportation. Although he possesses a valid Maryland license that lists a Lexington Park address, he is a citizen of Guatemala and an illegal alien.

Corporal Libby was transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital for minor injuries. He was treated and released. Corporal Wahlgren has assumed the investigation of this case.

Swans of the Chesapeake

By Bob Munro

S

tudies conducted since the early 1970s

by State and Federal Natural Resource Agencies reveal a decline in submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) in virtually all shallow water regions of the Bay. SAV provides a nursery area for small fish and crabs, not to mention hundreds of tiny organisms that most of us never see. Combine SAV with organisms that live on or in the bottom such as oysters and you have the benthic community (benthos), part of the Bay's food web. Like water, food is essential to life as we know it, and is a determining factor in the distribution and abundance of many animals.

The Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) is not native to N o r t h America.

In fact, it is the Royal Bird of England where it is native. A few Mute Swans were imported in 1910 and released on estate ponds in New York. Some of those birds eventually escaped and began to spread to all coastal States from Vermont to North Carolina, especially coastal ponds and estuaries. They are now resident (nonmigratory) species in all those States just mentioned.

A few Mute Swans were also imported to Maryland in 1962. Mute Swans have a reputation as prolific feeders on SAV. Consequently, Mute Swan populations are now controlled throughout much of their East Coast range. Fewer than 500 Mute Swans remain in Maryland following years of population control efforts.

While still controversial, most environmental and conservation organizations here in Maryland and elsewhere support continued population reduction of Mute Swans through egg addling (shaking and returning of eggs to the nest). Mute Swans are the largest species of waterfowl anywhere in North America. With a wingspan of nearly 90 inches, an adult male could weigh as much as 35 pounds. A distinguishing characteristic of the adult Mute Swan is the orange bill with

of swans could be seen as small white specks high in the sky, circling and descending to a black knob at the base of the bill (see land on the shallow bays along the north side of the island. If you've ever heard Tundra photo).

Swans, you could almost imagine the exciteThe ment in their voices as they set their wings for Tundra landing at their winter home on the ChesaS w a n peake.

(Cygnus Next weekend don't miss the 21st columbiaAnnual Pasadena Sportfishing Flea Market / nus) is the Show February 16-17 from 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 s e c o n d p.m. to stock up on anything and everything largest related to Bay fishing. The show is held at the waterfowl species native to North America, second only to the Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator).

With a wingspan in excess of 80 inches, adults that winter here in the Chesapeake or farther south in North Carolina use those The US Coast Guard Auxiliary, powerful wings to migrate more than 3,000 miles to and from the North Slope of Alaska Solomons Flotilla 23-2, will present a twice every year. Maryland's portion of the two-session Maryland Boating Safety EducaChesapeake Bay used to be the primary tion course for all residents of Southern wintering area in the Atlantic Flyway (a Maryland on Saturdays, March 23 and 30.

Federal system of flyways used for avian The class will run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 p.m. population management -- like time zones) both days with a lunch break at noon. It will for Tundra Swans, formerly called Whistling be presented in the La Plata Town Police Department at 101 La Grange Avenue.

Swans.

Graduates of this course will receive the When SAV declined in the 1970s, Tundra Swans moved to nearby agricultural MD Boater Safety Education certificate. This fields to feed on waste corn and winter cover certificate must be carried by any person born crops. However, the bulk of the population soon moved farther south to winter behind the Outer Banks of North Carolina where SAV continues to flourish. Comparing just Maryland and North Carolina, Maryland wintered 70% of the flyway's Tundra Swans counted during the 1972 Mid-Winter Waterfowl Inventory. During the 2011 survey, Maryland swans accounted for only 17%.

The bill of the adult Tundra Swan is black with a small splash of yellow just in front of the eye (see photo). In other parts of the world, the extent of that yellow splash helps identify species closely related to the North American Tundra Swan.

One of the most exciting days I ever spent on the Bay was as the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, a small island along the Bay's Western Shore north of the Bay Bridge. It was a cold November day in the late 1960s when weather conditions in the mid-West had basically pushed the birds out all at once on the last leg of their journey to the Chesapeake. Hundreds and thousands

Earleigh Heights Fire Hall right on Ritchie Highway a few miles north of Severna Park.

Plan on grabbing a stacked ham or roast beef sandwich while you're there - you won't be disappointed.

Have a question about Chesapeake Bay fishing?

Send your questions to "onthewater@chesapeakecurrent.com" and we'll do our best to get you an answer.

Don't catch 'em all, Bob Munro

Take Safe Boating Courses after July 1, 1972 while that person operates a registered vessel in MD waters. Students must attend both sessions and pass a final examination in order to obtain the certificate.

Topics include: Introduction to Boating Terms, Boating Equipment, Boat Trailering, Boat Handling Underway, Navigation Aids, Boating Emergencies, MD Boating Laws, Jet Ski Operation, Water Skiing Regulations, Hunting and Fishing.

Contact Gary Smith at (410) 326-8377 or fsope.232@hotmail.com to preregister.

About the Author: Bob Munro of Chesapeake Beach has been a career research biologist for the US Fish & Wildlife Service. At one time or another, he has visited every river entering the Chesapeake Bay from the Susquehanna Flats to Hampton Roads.

An avid fisherman, he's fished the mid-Chesapeake since the mid-1980s.

Chesapeake Current

Thursday, February 7, 2013

9

Banking Built on Customer Service

By Brian McDaniel can a leader in a big business on a local scale make a customer feel welcomed and important? When PNC Bank took over the Mercantile Branch in Chesapeake Beach, there were great expectations.

Elli Milinski, Branch Manager and Assistant Vice President of PNC Bank in Chesapeake Beach, is a member of the Bay Business Group (BBG) and has truly impacted our local community.

Elli was kind enough to give me some of her background and how it ultimately ties into her success at PNC. Born and raised in a town called Müs, Germany, Elli excelled in learning English and was encouraged by her English teacher to pursue the language. Elli admits that she had no intention of leaving Germany or ever needing English. However, she learned it and became an expert. This paid off later when she found herself in the states working in customer service at a Sure this works great locally but video store. Not long after that she was what if you’re a big name business? How hired at the Bank of Southern Don’t you just hate it when you can’t get a live person on the phone?

You’re not alone.

Consumers everywhere are experiencing a lack of customer service these days. In fact, I read in one book that consumers seem to be OK with the customer service they receive as long as it’s not worse than they anticipated.

That’s a hard way to go considering that it is first a privilege for a business to serve you and not the other way around.

What’s great about most small local businesses around here is that people matter more, and you’re more likely to be remembered.

10 Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

Maryland (now PNC) as a teller while still working part time at the video store.

It was Elli’s drive to genuinely help people that encouraged her to pursue this career. Elli mastered long ago what a lot of customer service people lack today — patience. Elli is patient and is detail oriented. This helps her with every customer she meets because it is with that genuine approach to customer service that people are drawn to Elli. As a leader at her branch, her employees embrace this genuine approach and demonstrate good leadership on their part making the PNC in Chesapeake Beach a very inviting place to do business.

PNC is home to all financial needs of the BBG –we have all of our accounts there. Elli was instrumental in helping to establish the Pat Carpenter Fund that this year will begin awarding scholarships to women in business.

Some BBG members have moved their b u s i n e s s accounts to PNC. Others have opened p e r s o n a l accounts.

Ask anyone and they’ll say it’s about the relationship.

“What I do is not out of the ordinary because I see it as part of my job. People come in and when they don’t know what to do, I sit with them for as long as they need and help them figure out what’s best for them,” Elli explains. She recently won an award from PNC during the 3rd quarter in recognition for her management at the branch. As I sat in her office I didn’t see the award on her desk. In fact, she had to get up and get it from behind some files.

Though winning an award was nice, she explained that she truly loved working with people and that’s all that really mattered.

Elli is very excited about the things PNC is doing for customers including their financial advising and wealth management opportunities. She enjoys staying cutting edge in banking technology and is very aware of how young people do their banking as well as the older generation. Having a grasp

Elvira “Ellie” Milinski.

on this allows her to maintain an excellent balance of catering to both.

Getting involved in the community is something she enjoys doing. Elli enjoys participating in the local Easter festivities as well as the Halloween fun at the water park each year. She enjoys giving back to the community by shopping local and participating in organizations like the United Way. PNC is also actively involved in family night at local schools where parents can learn about what PNC is doing and how they can help families.

I’m learning that this bank is more than just a building – it’s a community leader. I also have no doubt in my mind that a lot of that has to do with Elli and her awesome staff at the branch. Elli lives and works in Chesapeake Beach and made a point to tell me that folks at Roland’s Supermarket know her by name. With that said, she reinforced the importance of what it really means to shop local.

“You have to support your locals,” Elli says. That just about sums it up!

The BBG is excited to have PNC as a member and is truly delighted to have Elli represent them at the meetings. It’s refreshing to know that excellent customer service exists in the big businesses that reside where small business is big.

Stop by the PNC branch in Chesapeake Beach and say hello to Elli and her staff. Experience for yourself what it’s like to be treated like a person and not like a number. And if you ever have a problem, Elli is a real, live, caring person who will help you get it resolved.

PNC is located at 7933 Bayside Road in Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732 and their phone number is (410) 286-5981.

About the Author: Brian McDaniel is the owner of Crow Entertainment, LLC and a resident of North Beach.

He serves as one of three Ethics Commissioners for the Town of North Beach and is part of the communications team for the Bay Business Group.

Tres Hurras Por Plaza Mexico!

After months of renovations, the long-awaited new Plaza Mexico in North Beach is open for business.

Just like the first Mexico Restaurant in Calvert County in Huntingtown, Plaza Mexico is standing-room-only, but worth the wait. The food is sizzling and delicious food while the same cool Margarita recipe will soothe your taste buds. It’s a friendly family place, with a great kids menu, too.

Freddy Murillo, who runs Plaza Mexico with his family, says the shiny new menu is a lot like what they serve at their other Calvert location, but you can expect some differences and new dishes, too.

Outside, the building is a fresh guacamole green. Inside, the desert colors are warm and inviting. The walls are graced with colorful murals.

Booths have been added in the bar area. Even the restrooms have been updated.

The new location is part of more than a dozen Mexico Restaurants operated by Eldrado Martinez and family in Maryland and Virginia.

Freddy is a cousin, and at the same time he’s opening Plaza Mexico in North Beach, he’s opening another restaurant in Howard County.

Freddy recently told us, “I came to the United States when I was 15 with my Green Card from Guadalajara, in the Mexican state of Jalisco. We had family in Sacramento (CA), so I went to high school there my first year. Then my family and I drove from California to Virginia where my grandparents lived. I remember that was a really, really long

Debate Goes On Over Mulch, Accessory Sales Plaza Mexico at the corner of 7th and Bay in North Beach is bright, fresh and authentic. And the consensus is that the food is just as good – or better – than the family’s other Mexico Restaurants!

drive. Then I finished high school in Virginia.�

The family was already operating several successful restaurants in the metro area. They then opened one in Waldorf, where Freddy learned the family business. A few years later, he was ready to manage one of his own.

Freddy explains, “We were looking for another location, so we came out here and liked it. So we started the new Mexico Restaurant in Huntingtown and opened Sept. 1, 2006.�

Plaza Mexico in North Beach started with a “soft opening� on Mon. Feb. 4. The Grand Opening and official ribbon-cutting ceremony, which is open to the public, is scheduled for Sat. Feb 16.

The Calvert Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has again delayed action on changes to the county’s zoning law covering the sales of pots, mulch, topsoil, and soil amendments by greenhouses and nurseries.

At a work session at their meeting on Feb. 5, the BOCC heard from staff about the Planning Commission decision to remove the words “accessory items such as� and “gardening tools and gloves� from the ordinance.

Commissioner Evan Slaughenhoupt commented that he was not sure, and asked if, “The Planning Commission has the insight into what items should and should not be sold - rather than leaving it up to the marketplace to decide?�

Commissioner Susan Shaw added, “It’s very difficult for a nursery and greenhouse to have a viable business in Calvert County as it is. It would be more likely that these kinds of businesses could survive (if they could sell other items), rather than (residents) buying these items in a big box store in a town center, where the plants are not locally grown.�

She said she felt that instead, the county should be supporting farms and farmers to help them continue to farm.

The new wording requires that the area devoted to pot, mulch, topsoil, and soil amendments sales be restricted to no more than 1% of the parcel area or one acre maximum for larger farms and facilities. A setback of 50 feet is required from all property lines although variances can be issued.

Such facilities must also have direct road access or sole ownership of a right-of-way.

Commissioner Jerry Clark said he felt the changes were reasonable. “This does not stop farmers from growing plants or potted plants, only selling some accessory items.

Now if they want to have a small tractor business, plows, roto-tillers‌ we don’t want to turn a farm into quasi-retail. That belongs in the town centers. We’re not limiting things on farms. And if you only dedicate 1% - that can be a pretty large area for mulch, topsoil and products like that.�

The next step is a public hearing where the BOCC will gather more input on these proposed changes.

Dunkirk Market Place 3O -ARYLAND "LVD p Prince Frederick Market Square #OSTLEY 7AY p www.dickinsonjewelers.com

Chesapeake Current

Thursday, February 7, 2013 11

Top Ten Things to Consider this Valentine’s Day

On The

By Alison Setzer

N

ot sure what to get your sweetheart or how to let them know how much you care?

You can’t go wrong with any of these suggestions for Valentine’s Day. Shop Local. Valentine’s Day is the perfect holiday to take advantage of all your local businesses have to offer. Not only will it save you time, but you can know that you are getting a quality product from people you can trust.

Jewelry.

Infinity is in.

Who wouldn’t want a permanent reminder that your love will last forever?

Whether you choose an infinity symbol for a ring or a pendant, it is sure to be a piece of jewelry that she will cherish forever. Pandora has also released several new charms especially for Valentine’s D a y .

Everything from love birds, to hearts, to an engagement ring, Pandora

has a charm for every special moment. Classic heart jewelry is always appropriate – it’s the universal symbol of love! There are wonderful local jewelers in the area that will make your shopping easy. Dickinson Jewelers, with locations in Dunkirk and Prince Frederick, have several promotions just for Valentine’s Day. With any purchase of $199 or more (excluding Pandora) Dickinson customers will receive a FREE dozen red roses with their purchase, interest-free financing for one year, and a chance to win dinner for two at Mamma Lucia Restaurant! See their stores for details.

Cuisine. Date night with dinner out is the perfect chance for some alone time. There are several wonderful local restaurants, so date night doesn’t have to mean an hour commute just for dinner. Even if it’s just an hour or two taken to go to dinner, a break from everyday life is important, especially if you’re the caregiver to children or aging parents. Take this time to yourselves and really enjoy each other’s company. Right in our backyards you can get amazing Italian cuisine, incredible seafood, and wonderful steak!

A Favorite Treat. Valentine’s Day is a day to indulge. It’s your day to drink your favorite champagne, splurge on lobster tail and order that decadent chocolate mousse! All available

locally, it’s easy to make your night special.

Sweet Sentiment. There are great local card shops that will help you put down on paper what you think every day but often forget to say aloud. Whether or not you add your own words to spice it up is completely up to you.

Take the time to pick out the card that says exactly what you’re feeling. There’s a card out there for everyone.

Flowers. There are tons of great local florists in our area with beautiful arrangements.

They make it possible for you to pick up an arrangement on your way home from work, or have something delivered to your special someone. Flowers are a great way to brighten someone’s day, add a pop of color to their workplace, and let them know you’re thinking about them.

Personalize. The perfect gift is something from the heart. Don’t have time for an elaborate Valentine’s Day plan?

Cook dinner together or make each other homemade gifts. Remind each other why you still get butterflies when you’re together.

The Other Special People in Your Life.

Even though Valentine’s Day is always associated with your significant other, it’s appropriate to recognize the other special people in your life. It’s great to let parents, children, and even co-workers know you care about them.

“Me” Time. Whether or not you have a significant other in your life, give yourself some “me” time this Valentine’s Day. Take a minute to relax and do something you truly love and haven’t had a chance to do recently. Go for a walk on the North Beach Boardwalk along the bay, treat yourself to a day at one of the local

spas, watch the sunset, and take a minute to appreciate all of the good in your life.

Give Back. What better way to spread the love than by working with a local charity? There are so many ways to reach out in our own community. Whether your donate your time at the Calvert Humane Society, donate a meal to End Hunger in Calvert County, or just help someone in need, giving back to the community is a great way to celebrate the most love-filled day of the year!

About the Author: Alison Setzer is with Dickinson Jewelers, which is a locally owned jewelry store with locations in Prince Frederick and Dunkirk.

Refer to the latest issue of Chesapeake Current Cuisine for suggestions on where to take your loved one for a wonderful dinner at a locally-owned restaurant for Valentine’s Day. Remember, Calvert Restaurant Week continues through Sun. Feb. 10 with lunch and dinner specials as well! A list of participating restaurants is in the back.

Ways to Say “I Love You” Sure, you’ll get a heartfelt card. But beyond that, what can you do to make your Valentine feel loved and appreciated this year?

Karen Mitchell, owner of Karen’s of Calvert Florist & Gifts in Dunkirk says Valentine’s Day is their busiest day of the year.

And the number one order they get is for a dozen long-stem roses.

“That’s what 90% of our customers want to send,” she says. “You can’t go wrong with roses. Mostly people order red, but we do have pink, lavender and other colors. And if you want to do something different, I suggest getting a mixed arrangement that has a few roses in it. That’ always unexpected and we can create some beautiful bouquets.”

One of the things they offer that other florists don’t is beautiful keepsake vases that are anything but ordinary.

She suggests that you order early, especially if you want your flowers delivered.

“Let us know as early as possible what you want so we can get you into the schedule,” she suggests. “Of course it’s difficult for us to accommodate last-minute orders for immediate delivery.” And they need to order the flowers in advance, especially to get the best quality available.

She credits her staff for handling the crush. “We’ve been here 18 years and all our staff has been with us for years, so I give

12 Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

Karen Mitchell. complete credit to them,” she says. For Valentine’s Day, they do hire scores of delivery drivers for this one special day. But the regular staff works overtime to make these lasting memories.

If you want something other than flowers, Karen’s has other options as well.

“After flowers, I’d say that balloons, candy, and stuff animals are next,” she says, and they can send those, too. “But we also have the Miche purse line, which is very popular. It had a black purse base and all kinds of different shells – hundreds of them. What’s great is that you don’t have to empty the contents of your purse – just switch the shells. The purses come in four sizes, too.”

Singing Valentines: The Gift No One Can Forget What’s sweeter than a heart-shaped box of chocolates?

Fathers and Sons, a local barbershop quartet, is gearing up to again offer local Singing Valentines for your loved ones on February 13 and 14.

“It's that time, once again, when Fathers and Sons will be meandering about Calvert County on Valentine's Day, serenading unsuspecting sweethearts to benefit Calvert Hospice,” says Dave Reyno of Owings. He adds proudly, “Last year, we passed the $10,000 mark in funds raised for Hospice.”

The group is made up of two pairs of real-life fathers and sons. Dave Reyno of Owings sings bass, his son, Jeremy Reyno of Prince Frederick, a tenor, John Leavitt of Owings, a baritone, and his son, Jason, also of Owings who sings lead and carries the tune. They wear the traditional barbershop quartet outfits consisting of red shirts, black pants, and white ties.

Since last year, they’ve gone through some changes. Jeremy became the new father of twins Hudson and Harper on

surprise wherever they may be. You hire them to seek out your loved one and they will go.

You choose one of four songs you want them to sing and they will perform it for a modest fee, which they then donate to Calvert Hospice.

The elder Reyno says, “We offer four different songs and you have a choice: ‘Let Me Call You Sweetheart,’ ‘Wild Irish Rose,’ ‘Heart of My Heart,’ and ‘I Love You Truly.’ What we do is show up where you tell us and find the Valentine recipient, sing them a couple of songs, give them a red rose and a bag of candies. It’s very sweet.”

Want to book a Singing Valentine for your loved one?

Call Fathers and Sons at (301) 855-2724 or (410) 257-7814 as soon as possible because their slots fill up quickly.

They begin at about 9:00 a.m. and finish around 9:00 p.m. both days so they’re on a tight schedule. And they encourage you to book as soon as possible if this is something you’d like to do for your Valentine!

Jeremy Reyno, Jason Leavitt, Dave Reyno and John Leavitt are “Fathers & Sons.”

Jan 10 so everyone is hoping that the tradition will continue with Hudson in the future! Dave, who retired just this year from the North Beach Post Office, jokes that he has settled into being a new grandpa “quite comfortably.”

Fathers and Sons “works” the Singing Valentines on a tight schedule, running from one end of Calvert County to the other – and even into Southern Anne Arundel to woo sweethearts, wherever they may be. They serenade women and men at their jobs, homes, bars and restaurants, senior centers – a big

Custom Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery Now Available at the Chesapeake Cataract Center “The most revolutionary advancement in ophthalmology since the advent of LASIK.” Chesapeake Eye Care & Laser Center’s Dr. Maria Scott and Dr. Heather Nesti are proud to be the first in Anne Arundel County to offer patients bladeless Laser cataract surgery. With this innovative technology, our surgeons can truly customize each procedure. Combined with the most advanced multifocal and astigmatism correcting lenses, the bladeless Laser allows patients to achieve the vision they had in their 20s – often without relying on glasses!

The Bladeless Laser: Ensures the most gentle, accurate, exact incisions and lens capsule placement Provides more precise, consistent results Addresses unique eye characteristics Promotes faster visual recovery Allows surgeons to customize lens power using ORA Precision Vision technology

Maria Scott, MD Cataract and Refractive Surgeon

Performed in the state-of-the-art Chesapeake Cataract Center, the combination of the bladeless Laser and ORA Precision Vision technology is achieving unprecedented results for our patients.

THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR YOUR VISION 2002 Medical Parkway Sajak Pavilion, Suite 320 Annapolis, MD 21401 877-DR4-2020 www.ChesapeakeEyeCare.com

Call us today to learn more and experience the care that’s made us the trusted choice of thousands for over 20 years.

Heather Nesti, MD Glaucoma and Cataract Surgeon

Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery | LASIK | Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery Glaucoma | Retina | Dry Eye

Chesapeake Current

Thursday, February 7, 2013 13

Unconditional Love

The Chesapeake Current P.O. Box 295 North Beach, MD 20714 (410) 231-0140 Owner, Executive Editor and Publisher: Diane Burr - editor@ChesapeakeCurrent.com Advertising: email - ads@ChesapeakeCurrent.com or call Clare O’Shea (301) 873-5885, Barbara Colburn at (410) 867-0103 or Ray Wenderlich at (410) 741-5291.

“Like” the Chesapeake Current on Facebook and visit our breaking news site, www.ChesapeakeCurrent.com.

Current Contributors: Regan Cashman Dave Colburn (staff photographer) Sid Curl Nick Garrett Jenny Kellner

Brian McDaniel Bob Munro Susan Shaw Norma Jean Smith Lynda Striegel

The Chesapeake Current is THE ONLY locally-owned and independently operated media outlet in our area. We serve all of Calvert County and Southern Anne Arundel County. Don’t be confused – we are not associated with anyone else, especially those who try to copy us. None of our content is syndicated – it’s all local and all about our communities.

The Chesapeake Current is a “priceless” or free publication. We’re available in 275+ high-traffic areas throughout our readership area, and we are 100% supported by ad revenue. However, you can join our growing list of subscribers! Get the Current mailed to your home for just $2.00 per issue (our cost). Call (410) 231-0140. A Current subscription is a thoughtful gift, too!

There are no authorized inserts in this issue. If you find any others, please notify us immediately and we will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law for theft of services.

The Chesapeake Current is owned by Bayside Partners, LLC, which is solely responsible for its form, content and policies.

Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. No content or images may be used for any reason without express written permission.

Dear Chesapeake Current, Thank you and Mr. McDaniel for writing and printing the “Unconditional Love” article about the Human Society of Calvert County (HSCC) and Kirstyn Northrop Cobb. I adopted Charlie July 13 (featured in the July 7, 2012 Chesapeake Current). He was my birthday present.

Kirsten brought him out to us and she was great. Another volunteer, Kelly, also came out when I had some questions.

They are great people and they go the distance in helping animals and their owners.

I had wondered if I made a rash decision in adopting Charlie, but God provides and Charlie is a joy.

Also, in November, I lost my mother. She died at our home and Calvert Hospice was a blessing.

I am grateful to live in such a county with such giving people. We are truly blessed who live here.

Please support HSCC and Calvert Hospice.

Kelly Catron Chesapeake Beach

Send More Currents!

Dear Chesapeake Current, On behalf of the folks in my community in Solomons, please increase by at least one and a half times the number of Chesapeake Current newspapers now being delivered.

With the last issue, all the copies were gone in less than one hour. On my own, I went to a nearby grocery store and picked

up about 25 more copies to being back and they, too, went very fast.

The Current is very popular here and it would be appreciated having the present number of copies increased.

Thank you!

Annette Wilfong Solomons

C A LV E R T M E M O R I A L H O S P I TA L

REDUCING HEART DISEASE

Healthy Heart Expo

Caring for the “Hearts” of Our Community

t Personal Cardiac Risk Assessments*

Free Health Screenings: t t t t t t

Vascular Screening* Blood Pressure Screening Body Composition Analysis Lung Function Testing Diabetes Education Smoking Cessation

“One on One” with: t Ask the Doctor, Pharmacist & Nurse

The mortality rate from heart disease in Calvert County is higher than the State! Let us help you take care of yours!

Join Us

♥

Date: Thursday, February 21 Time: 5:30 p.m.- 8 p.m.

Place: Outpatient Concourse at CMH

Heart-Healthy Refreshments Call the CMH KeepWell Center at 410-535-8233 or 301-855-1012 ext 8233.

* Preregistration required.

In case of inclement weather, please call the KeepWell Center for cancellation information.

14 Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

Troopers Tweet Dear Chesapeake Current readers, Follow Us On Twitter: The Maryland State Police Barrack in Prince Frederick has created a Twitter account @MSP_Prince_Fred. Please follow us for important information affecting southern Maryland. The Prince Frederick Barrack is a full service police facility, handling criminal and traffic investigations primarily in Calvert County. We would like to open a line of communication with the public to help us serve you, the citizens of Maryland, better. Besides

helpful information about criminal and traffic situations, we will also tweet information about speed enforcement, DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols, and other preventative measures. You can also Tweet us questions or information you feel is useful. Please help us spread the word so that we can make this a useful and helpful resource for southern Marylanders.

Maryland State Police Barrack U Prince Frederick

February Is Spay/Neuter Month Dear Chesapeake Current readers, The goal of National Spay/Neuter month is to raise awareness of the plight of homeless animals and pet overpopulation.

Did you know that one unaltered cat or dog has the potential to produce up to 400 puppies or kittens in his or her lifetime? That doesn’t include offspring from that dog or cat’s offspring.

In addition to reducing the numbers of homeless and unwanted animals turned into shelters, spaying or neutering your pet can reduce the risks of several cancers.

The Spay Spa & Neuter Nook in Davidsonville is on a mission to spay and neuter as many local animals as possible to prevent the birth of unwanted kittens and puppies. The Spay Spa & Neuter Nook is featuring daily specials during the entire month. On No Mama Mondays, have your cat or dog spayed at a greatly reduced price. On Tomcat Tuesdays, any and all male cats will be neutered for $20. On Hump - Free Hump Day (Wednesday’s) dogs up to 50 pounds will be neutered for $50 (larger dogs slightly more) These services are open to all pet owners regardless of income. Pets that are spayed or neutered tend to live longer, be healthier, and have fewer behavior problems like spraying, biting and running away.

Rude Ranch Animal Rescue is a volunteer based, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to the rescue, care and adoption of homeless animals in the Maryland and Washington, DC area. All donations are tax deductible. Rude Ranch Animal Rescue receives no government funding.

The Spay Spa & Neuter Nook is a subsidiary of Rude Ranch Animal Rescue.

It is dedicated to promoting animal spay/neuter as a method to solve the problem of too many pets and not enough homes.

For more information, please visit the Rude Ranch Animal Rescue or Spay Spa & Neuter Nook websites at www.RudeRanch.org or www.SpaySpa.org. Please contact Rude Ranch Animal Rescue President Katherine Evans (410.798.9559) or Spay Spa & Neuter Nook Executive Director Bob Rude (443.607.6496) to talk about the Spay Spa & Neuter Nook!

Vet Thanked For Giving Time From the Calvert County Sheriff’s Dept. & Animal Control: On January 15th Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans presented a Sheriff’s Salute to Dr. Autumn Terry of All Kinds Veterinary Clinic located in Callaway for the service she provided in reference to a search and seizure warrant.

On August 8th of last year the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Unit executed a search and seizure warrant at a residence in Lusby that allegedly had a large amount of rabbits that were not being kept in a humane way. During the search and seizure, Dr. Terry assisted Animal Control and spent approximately 12 hours that day doing field examinations of 265 rabbits, ordering the seizure of 222 rabbits. After assessing the rabbits at the residence she did further examinations at the shelter. During the time that the rabbits were housed at the shelter, Dr. Terry continued to see rabbits at her practice, as well as going to the shelter. She finally ended with testifying in court on the case.

When requested to provide Animal Control with a bill for her service she

Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans, Dr. Autumn Terry, and Craig Dichter, Animal Control Officer II. advised that she was not charging for her services and that she was volunteering her time. It is estimated that she provided approximately 35 hours of her own personal time examining the rabbits at her practice while she was working, at the shelter on her days off, and at the residence when the search warrant was executed. Dr. Terry saved the Animal Control Unit thousands of dollars by graciously not charging a fee.

Dr. Terry was nominated for the award by Animal Control Officers.

Sincerely, Kathy Rude Rude Ranch Animal Rescue Davidsonville www.ruderanch.org Spay Spa & Neuter Nook www.SpaySpa.org

Chesapeake Current

Thursday, February 7, 2013 15

Estelle Barnes, 89

Steve Beatty, 52

Estelle Lavona Barnes, age 89, of Dunkirk, passed away on January 22, 2013 in Arlington. VA. She was born in a small town in Northeast Arkansas.

She completed high school and married William Johnson, II. They had four children before he was killed in World War II. Estelle managed to provide well for her children, including sending all four to college.

Estelle worked as a bookkeeper for several companies in Arkansas and prepared tax returns for private clients for many years. She was the secretary for the local Rotary Club. She ran for the office of City Treasurer for Jonesboro, Arkansas and was reelected many times before she resigned to take a position with the U.S. Marshall’s Office in Little Rock.

While attending a conference, she met William T. Barnes and they married in 1976. His position with the US Supreme Court took the couple to Saipan where Estelle was appointed as the 1st District Court Clerk for the Pacific Marianna Islands, and with her husband, established the framework for the District Court for the area. She and her husband travelled for pleasure to several European countries. She was a member of Capitol Hill United Methodist Church for many years.

She is survived by her husband of 37 years, William T. Barnes of Dunkirk; sons, William “Bill” Johnson and wife Chantal of Arlington; Ken Johnson and wife Robin of Monticello, AR; William “Billy” Barnes of Dunkirk; Myrna Gillespie of Jonesboro, AR and Sandra Caldwell and husband Roger of Okeechobee, FL; brother, Herbert Bodell of Heber Springs, AR; 11 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 26 at Raymond-Wood Funeral Home.

Rev. Alisa Lasater, Pastor, Capitol Hill United Methodist Church, officiated. Interment will be scheduled at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 or at www.alz.org.

Arrangements provided by Raymond-Wood Funeral Home, Dunkirk.

Steven Andrew “Steve” Beatty, Sr., age 52, of Huntingtown passed away January 20, 2013 at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. He was born August 24, 1960 in Washington, D.C. to Carl and Mary Beatty. Steve was raised in District Heights, MD and attended Suitland High School and Riverdale Baptist School.

He married Rosemary Evelyn Partonen on May 9, 1980 and they lived in Forestville until moving to Huntingtown in 1988. He was employed at the Giant Food Bakery, and owned and operated Beatty’s Home Improvement and Repair for eleven years. Steve was an oil truck driver for Besche Oil Company and most recently a concrete truck driver for Chaney Enterprises.

Steve was an avid fisherman, and he enjoyed playing guitar, building and flying R.C. model airplanes, and tinkering with cars and boats.

He is survived by his loving wife Rosemary E. Beatty, a son Steven A. Beatty, Jr. and a daughter Christine E. Beatty, all of Huntingtown. Also surviving are his parents Carl and Mary Beatty of Owings; a brother Carl W. Beatty III of St. Leonard; a sister Bridgette Phelps; three nieces Mariam and Melissa Wyant and Erin Beatty and a nephew Carl Beatty IV. Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

Sam Bowen, 88 Samuel Charles Bowen, Jr., age 88, of Owings passed away January 31, 2013 at his residence.

Sam was born November 4, 1924 in Prince Frederick to Samuel Charles, Sr. and Clara Blanche

(Whittington) Bowen.

He was raised in Prince Frederick and graduated from Calvert High School. He served in the United States Army from 1944-1946, earning the Good Conduct, Army Occupation Medals, and the European African Middle Eastern Theatre and World War II Victory Ribbons.

During a difficult time… still your best choice.

Affordable Funerals, Caskets, Vaults, Cremation Services and Pre-Need Planning Family Owned and Operated by Barbara Rausch and Bill Gross

www.RauschFuneralHomes.com

Owings

Port Republic

410-257-6181

410-586-0520

8325 Mt. Harmony Lane 4405 Broomes Island Rd.

16 Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

Lusby

20 American Lane

410-326-9400

Sam married Anna Mae Cullember on February 12, 1949 and they lived in Camp Springs for twenty years before moving to Owings in 1977.

He was employed as an automobile mechanic and worked at Jay Chevrolet, Lowes Chevrolet and Ourisman Chevrolet in Camp Springs. Sam enjoyed playing cards, being outdoors, working on cars and took pride in his perfectly mowed lawn.

He was an accomplished handyman who could fix or build anything.

Sam is survived by his loving wife Anna Mae Bowen and three siblings, Dorothy “Dot” Wilson of Downey, CA, Warren Bowen and wife Doris of Virginia and Jaxie McCullough of Churchville, MD. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by siblings Gerald “Buddy” Bowen, Evelyn Bowen and Blanche James.

Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

Interment was at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery in Lothian.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Calvert Hospice, P.O. Box 838, 238 Merrimac Court, Prince Frederick MD 20678 (online: calverthospice.org).

Joseph Briguglio, 69 Joseph Vincent Briguglio, age 69, of Owings, died suddenly January 24, 2013 at Calvert Memorial Hospital, Prince Frederick.

Joseph was born in Washington, DC on October 26, 1943 to Joseph and Bernice Jeanette (Yoakum) Briguglio.

He was raised in Prince George’s County and graduated from Sasscer High School.

Joseph joined the Washington DC National Guard and served with them from 1964 – 1968.

He was married to Linda Lanham on September 25, 1965. He has been a resident of Owings since 1988.

Joseph was employed as a lather with the Carpenters Union Local # 1590 until retiring in 2008. He enjoyed the Chesapeake Bay and spent many days fishing with his buddy, Jimmy Dwyer.

He is survived by his wife Linda Lanham of North Beach, a son Brian Briguglio and his wife Jennie of Newport Richey, FL, a daughter Kimberly Leider and her husband William of Palmer, AK; three grandchildren; two brothers Gary Briguglio and his wife Sandy of Valrico, FL and Guy Briguglio and his wife Norma of Willow Spring, NC; a sister Judy Reno and her husband Carl of Augusta, WV and his beloved Chihuahua, Millie.

Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

Larry Brooks, 62 Larry Bernard Brooks, Sr. was born on August 19, 1950 in Huntingtown to Lena Willett and Dennis Brooks and passed away quietly at home on Saturday morning January 19, 2013.

He was known as "Big Larry" to his friends and many acquaintances and he was affectionately known as "Bubba" to his

wife Mildred of 42 years.

He is preceded in death by his parents Lena and Dennis; sister, Joan and a brother, Allen. He leaves behind his wife Mildred; three daughters, Tammie, Tonya (Kelvin), and Courtney; two sons, Larry Jr. and Jermaine (Mabel); 14 grandchildren and his siblings, Jean, Elsie, Rosalie, Martha Eleanor, Brenda Lee, and Dennis Jr., also a host of family and friends.

He worked for B. Frank Joy for many years as a heavy equipment operator. He enjoyed his work and was never late. He was never tired of talking about his job sites and coworkers.

Larry was a firm believer in Jehovah. He had so much love for Jehovah and he always told everyone and anyone "you got to have faith." Larry Brooks Sr. will truly be missed.

Sewell Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

Mollie Brooks, 80 Mollie Leonia Brooks was born on February 24, 1932 in Huntingtown, to Henry James Brooks, Sr. and Daisy Roberta Mackall Brooks. She departed this earthly realm for a better prepared place on January 20, 2013.

Mollie was educated in Calvert County Public Schools. She enjoyed school and always encouraged her children and grandchildren to get their education. She used her own skills to study her bible and keep detailed family records.

Mollie learned the value of hard work at an early age and labored with a willing spirit throughout her life. Following her mother’s death, she helped raise her siblings and cared for her own father until his passing. She worked inside and outside the house to raise 13 children, cooking, chopping wood, farming tobacco, raising livestock and growing and canning vegetables and fruit. Through her diligence, she was able to keep a house stocked with food enough to share, even in lean times. She held many jobs, including cook, caretaker and custodian before retiring from Calvert County Public Schools in 1997. Even then, several parents were blessed to have her help in caring for their babies. Her strong hands could be so gentle.

Mollie had a special touch with food and her cooking was widely appreciated and sought after. She enjoyed watching others savor the food she prepared and would often set aside special dishes as a token of her favor. If asked how to prepare a signature dish, she would say, “just add a pinch of this and a dab of that!” It worked

perfectly for her but would not turn out right for others. The secret ingredient in every pot of kale and in every pound of potato salad was her love.

Mollie’s home was adorned with beautiful plants and flowers, inside and out. She felt her best when she spent time hoeing, weeding and watering her flowerbeds. When asked how she kept her plants so beautiful, she would say, “You talk to them and love them like you would do anything else.” But she would not let you touch them! She taught her loved ones to give her flowers while she lived.

Mollie was known as “Mother Mollie” to so many and would nourish and care for any child and many adults too. She had an open, giving heart and a ready smile. Sitting at her kitchen table, she was as likely to share a joke as a scripture. Even her sharp opinions were delivered with a smile. Brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren, neighbors and others knew that they had a true friend in Mollie; one who did not judge, who prayed for their well-being and who loved unconditionally. Her capacity for love and forgiveness was unlimited and truly unique.

Mollie loved and accepted the Lord Jesus as her Savior at an early age. She began every day in conversation with Jesus, casting a net of prayer over her loved ones, the sick and shut in. She was a faithful member and the mother of Calvary United Church. Every clear Sunday would find her in her favorite pew dressed in her finest attire, topped with a hat. She took pride in looking her best for Jesus and loved that her daughters shopped to keep her in style. She was a model of Christian faith and the love of God shined through her.

Mollie was a rare and precious jewel who sparkled and delighted others through her natural gifts. She is sorely missed by all who knew her and strive to carry on her legacy by “sticking together and looking out for each other.” She has blessed too many, too richly to ever be forgotten.

Mollie was preceded in death by Enoch Booth, her parents, Henry Sr. and Daisy; two brothers, Henry Jr. and Darby and one sister, Sylvia; her devoted son Lincoln and treasured grandson Trevan, brothers-in-law Herman, Fields, Jimmy and Robert and son-in-law Abby.

She leaves to cherish her legacy of love, generosity, faith and devotion, her children, Edith (Ronald), Michael (Sue), Christine (Clifton), Ricardo (Shelvy), Rodney (Brenda), Anthony, Lafayette (Dawne), Cheryl, Candie, LueRue (James), Juanita, and Tyrone; siblings, Irene, Bernard, Elder (Shirley), Geneva, Alphonso (Arlene), Kathleen (Daniel), Odella, Rosalee, Joseph (Ophelia), Lorraine, MacAuthur (Clarice), and Joyce; 30 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren; and countless nieces, nephews, relatives, church family and special friends.

Sewell Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Milton Brown, 58 Milton Leon Brown born to the late Velvet and Berthalene MaGruder Brown on February 28, 1954, was called home from labor to reward on January 18, 2013, at Anne Arundel Medical Center.

Milton, affectionately called “Cupcake,” at an early age attended House of Prayer on Sudley Road in Owensville under the late Bishop Leslie Owens where he received salvation and was baptized. Before his transition to his new body he made peace with God. He received his education in Anne Arundel County Public Schools. He worked in construction at an early age. He was a hard worker and very dedicated employee. He worked as a heavy equipment operator. He received many safety awards while working for Maryland Environmental Services.

He really enjoyed being with family and friends listening to Oldies but Goodies and Quartet music and he always put family first. He also enjoyed looking at Western Movies and socializing with his buddies at the 7 Eleven. His good nature, personality and sense of humor will truly be missed, especially his Barry White baritone.

He leaves to share his memories with: brothers, Francis, Melvin (Virginia), Maurice and Christopher (Detra) Brown; sisters, Helen Brooks, Violet Jones, Jessie (Herman) Morsell, Ethel Lou (Sherman) Morsell, Gladys (William) Smith and Berthalene Parker; sisters-in-law, Debra Brown and Mary Brown; aunts, Clara (James) Ijams; great-aunt, Dorothy Brown; uncles, Daniel and Roger Brown and Wilson(Deborah) and Benjamin Parran; a host of nieces ,nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends; a devoted niece, Beneka Sirko; a devoted neighbor and two devoted friends, Gregory Malloy and Vincent Reid Jr., two special and devoted friends Vanessa Simms and Doris Jones.

He was preceded in death by brothers, Rufus and Robert Brown and a sister, Martha Brown.

Sewell Funeral Home in Prince Frederick handled arrangements.

Ruth Buck, 83 Ruth E. Buck, age 83, of Prince Frederick passed away on January 27, 2013 at Calvert Memorial Hospital after a short illness.

Ruth was born on February 5, 1929 in Dameron, MD to the late Harry Wood and Catherine (McKay) Wood. She was one of 11 children and was preceded in death by her sisters Evelyn Norris, Lucille Hooper , Catherine Wood , Marguerite Wood and brothers, Harvey Wood, John Wood and Dick Wood.

She is survived by sister Margaret Greenwell of Hollywood, Marion Gatton of Lexington Park and brother Charles Wood of Dameron.

Ruth attended St. Michael’s Catholic School in Ridge and graduated in 1947. After graduation she left St. Mary’s County to reside in Calvert County and marry her husband of 55 years, Parran (Tick) Buck who preceded her in death. She is survived by her children, Linda Higgs and her husband Jimmy of Benedict, Darol Buck and his wife Marianne of LaPlata and Lisa Gallegos of Prince Frederick. She is also survived by 4 grandsons, Chris and his wife Charity Higgs of Benedict, Dave Buck of Columbia, Missouri and Kyle and Kory Gallegos of Port Republic. In addition, she is survived by 4 great grandchildren, Claire Higgs and Draven, Xander and Phoenix Buck.

She retired in 1992 after working many different jobs, including bookkeeper for the former Gott Oil Company and Shorter’s Restaurant and a

Chesapeake Current

receptionist for Calvert Hair Fashions. She was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys but truly enjoyed NASCAR, especially driver Jeff Gordon.

Ruth had been a member of St. John Vianney Catholic Church since it was a mission church. She worked with the bereavement committee at the church and participated in adoration hour until health issues prevented her from attending. She was also a judge for the Board of Elections of Calvert County, a member of the auxiliary for Calvert Memorial Hospital for approximately 25 years and also enjoyed helping with the SMECO annual meetings.

Pallbearers were Chaz Osborne, Mike Morgan, John Gatton, Wayne Wood, Donnie Conner and Bucky Rawlings. Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Higgs, Chris Higgs, David Buck, Kyle and Kory Gallegos.

Memorial contributions may be made to Calvert Hospice, Post Office Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

Rausch Funeral Home in Port Republic handled arrangements. A mass of Christian burial was held at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Prince Frederick with Father Peter Daly officiating.

Interment followed at Central Cemetery in Barstow.

Helen Camper, 62 Helen Louise (Glista) Camper, age 62, of North Beach was born September 10, 1950 and passed away January 22, 2013.

She was the beloved daughter of the late Vincent Glista; devoted mother of the late Laurie M. Reggettz; loving sister of Steven (Victoria) Glista, Walter Glista, Andy (Adrienne) Glista, Mary (Aaron) Douglass, the late Vincent “Vinny” Glista, Susan Glista-Dellinger and Linda Glista-Horman. She was the devoted friend of Mary Kress, Shirley O’Hara and Jim and Ursula King, and is also survived by many other nieces, nephews and friends.

Helen was a volunteer for Hospice of the Chesapeake. She enjoyed helping others and was always dependable when someone was in need.

When she wasn’t helping others, Helen enjoyed watching movies, scrap booking and writing poetry.

Lee Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

Mike Davis, 23 Michael Martin “Mike” Davis, age 23, of North Beach passed away January 30, 2013.

He was born December 28, 1989 at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C. He was raised in North Beach and graduated from Northern

High School.

Mike was employed as a mechanic and technician at Mr. Tire in LaPlata. Mike loved country music, watching football, especially the Denver Broncos and played youth ice hockey in Bowie. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Mike is survived by his parents Dianne C. and Shawn Hunt of North Beach; brothers Matthew M. Holmes of Washington, D.C. and Cody Davis of Texas. He is also survived by an uncle Larry Martin and wife April of Greensboro, NC; an aunt Darleen Elliott and husband Rick of Damascus, MD; a cousin Justin Elliott and wife Ryan of Clarksburg, MD and by many members of the Hunt family.

Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

In lieu of flowers donations in Mike’s memory may be made to Jesus the Divine Word Parish, St. Vincent DePaul Fund, 885 Cox Road, Huntingtown, MD 20639.

Thursday, February 7, 2013 17

Willard Davis, 57 Willard Dale Davis, age 57, of Lusby, passed away on January 16, 2013 at his residence with his sister by his side.

He was born on June 18, 1955 in Washington, D.C. to the late Willard Dale Davis, Sr. and Marion Grace Kitchen Davis. He was raised in MD. He is survived by his children Dennis Dean Davis, Dale Justin Davis, David Dodson, Charles Dodson, Christopher Dodson, Kyle Davis and Christina Star Dodson; brother John Lee Davis of Hollywood, MD; sister Deborah Davis Underwood of Charlotte Hall, MD; step-daughters Becca, and Cathy; uncle and father figure to Lisa Underwood and best friend to George Greene. He is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews, special friends and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother.

A memorial service celebrating his life was held at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church at Solomons with Deacon Robert Connelly officiating.

Local arrangements were handled by Rausch Funeral Home, Lusby.

Eddie Duppins, 61 Eddie Duppins entered into this life on April 26, 1951, born to the late William Duppins and Helen Creek Duppins, in Calvert County. He peacefully closed his eyes and entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 22, 2013, into a place that has been wonderfully prepared for him.

Eddie was a special child of God lovable, kind, friendly and very sharing. Eddie was preceded in death by his sister, Virginia Duppins.

Eddie received his education in the Calvert County public school system, graduating from Calvert Sr. High School in Prince Frederick. Even though he was a special education student he strived to make his family proud of his accomplishments. After graduating, Eddie became an employee at the Kenilworth Towers, in Bladensburg, MD, where he worked for 23 years. He was special to his boss, coworkers and all the residents.

Eddie was raised in Bethel Way of the Cross Church where the late Bishop Jacob A. Green was the pastor. The words of life pierced his heart and soul so deeply that he found himself at the altar declaring that he wanted to be baptized in the precious name of Jesus Christ on August 24, 1969. On that day he died to the sins of this world and began to walk in the newness of life with Christ Jesus. After the baptism of the Holy Ghost and fire, Eddie became actively involved in various ministries at Bethel that included the Usher Board, Youth For Christ, the Bethel Crusaders and the Young Adult Choir. In later years, Eddie and his mother moved their membership to Refuge Temple Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith, Inc. in Washington, DC where he continued his faithfulness and dedicated service on the Refuge Temple Choir and the Usher Board.

Eddie was a person of fun. His hobby was listening to great gospel choirs. He loved sports especially basketball and football. He was a true fan of the Dallas Cowboys, even though the Cowboys did not make the Super Bowl this year. After learning how to bowl from his sister Fran, he enjoyed beating her in some of their bowling games.

Eddie will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He leaves to cherish his memories: four sisters, Frances Spriggs, Sadie Morsell (Michael), Mattie Hendon (James) and MaryAnn Williams (Ronald); one brother, William Duppins; nieces and nephews: Ephonia Green (Albert), Ronald Green, Hayley Green, Michelle Morsell, Renee Hendon, Leketia Lee (Rico), Camilitia Mullen, Selina Mullen, Crystal Mullen, Brigette Lancaster, Erin Duppins, Rayshawn Morsell (Felisha), Timothy Morsell, Corey Duppins (Maria), Damean Duppins (Melanie). Two family adopted sisters; Patricia Gorman and Gwendolyn Davis (Patrick); one family adopted brother, Ronald (Buddy) Fleming; one uncle, Maurice Creek (Helen); one aunt, Clarice Creek and a host of cousins and friends.

Sewell Funeral Home in Prince Frederick handled arrangements. His final resting place is Southern Memorial Gardens in Dunkirk.

Bonnie Estes, 86 Bonnie Carr Estes, age 86, of Dunkirk died at home on January 21, 2013.

She was born in Powellton, WV to the late Mont and Beulah Mayes Carr. She had lived in Rainelle, WV before moving to

18 Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

Calvert County six years ago. She was a homemaker who enjoyed reading, needlecraft and cooking. She was a big Washington Nationals Fan. Bonnie is survived by her sons, Johnny Bruce Estes and wife Glenda of Ringgold, GA and Dennis Estes and wife Diana of Buckhannon, WV; daughters, Irlanda Jones and husband Robert of Arnold, MD and Denise Bennett and husband Daniel of Dunkirk; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Her husband of 42 years, Johnny Estes, died in 1989.

Funeral services were on Saturday, January 26, 2013 at Smathers Funeral Chapel in Rainelle, WV. Interment followed at Wallace Memorial Cemetery in Clintonville, WV. Rev. Kermit Hunter officiatedsz DRVB AVVDF. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvert Hospice, PO Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 or at calverthospice.org. Local arrangements provided by Raymond-Wood Funeral Home, Dunkirk.

Mandy Foster, 27 Amanda Lynn Foster, age 27, of Lusby, known as "Mandy," died suddenly on January 12, 2013 at her residence.

She was born on April 12, 1985 in Prince Frederick to Franklin D. Foster and Jeanne Marie Sypult Foster.

She is survived by her mother Jeanne M. Foster of Lusby; father Franklin D. Foster and his wife Janice Carpenter of Johns Island, SC sisters Amanda E. Foster of MD, Samantha Jo Foster of NY, Sarah N. Riggleman of Prince Frederick, and Becky A. Calvert of Lusby; grandparents Jim and Martha Bliss of Lusby, and Bruce Saville of Clear Brook, VA. She is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and many friends.

Rausch Funeral Home in Lusby handled arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to: "In Memory of Mandy Foster" Memorial Fund, C/O any PNC Bank Branch Office, 37650 Oak Station Drive, Charlotte Hall MD 20622 or the Abused Persons Program, Calvert County Health Department, 975 Solomons Island Rd., P. O. Box 980, Prince Frederick MD 20678.

Mark Grace, 25 Mark Ellis Grace, III of Lower Marlboro was born on January 11, 1988 to Mark “Doc” and Peggy (Green) Grace of Lower Marlboro, MD. He passed away on January 23, 2013 at the age of 25.

Mark is survived by his loving parents.

He was the beloved brother of Emily and Logan Grace, grandson of Evelyn Green, nephew of Timothy and Christopher Green, David Grace and his wife and Mary Patricia Grace-Kundrate, cousin of Jonathon Grace.

Some of Mark’s interests were fishing and archery practice.

Lee Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

George Greenfield, 59 George "Nubby" A. Greenfield, age 59 of Huntingtown, passed away on Jan. 25, 2013.

He was born Sept. 3, 1953 to Joseph and Mary Greenfield of Hughesville, MD. He was the beloved husband of Deanna “Deedee” Greenfield; loving father of Darrin, Anthony, Kenya (Will) and Aaron; caring brother of Joseph Greenfield, Diane Yates, Mary, Michael and Paul Greenfield; devoted grandfather of six and great grandfather of two.

Mr. Greenfield served in the United States Navy as an airplane mechanic during the Vietnam War. George was a member of the Knights of Columbus. His hobbies included fixing old cars and flying his model helicopters.

Lee Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

Dedryon Johnson, 22 DeDryon T. Johnson, age 22, was born on August 3, 1990 to Deirdre Renee Johnson and Rodney Nathaniel Tibbs in Calvert County. He departed this life on January 18, 2013. He was a young man who always strived to make people smile and gave words of encouragement to whomever he came in contact with.

DeDryon graduated in 2008 from Huntingtown High School. While in High School, he attended Calvert County Vocational Technical Center where he learned a trade in masonry. He enjoyed masonry and pursued his trade working for a local company, Richard Leitch. DeDryon also attended the College of Southern Maryland in Prince Frederick, where he received a certification in heating and air conditioning.

DeDryon was a lover of football and played for the Beach Buccaneers in Chesapeake Beach, from the age of seven to the age of 14, continuing his passion, he played football while attending Huntingtown High School. He was a young man that enjoyed working out and staying in shape, which led to his employment at World Gym in Prince Frederick.

DeDryon leaves to cherish his memories his parents, Deirdre Johnson and Rodney Tibbs; brothers, Devaughn T. Holland, Samuel S. Greene, Jr. and Tyrese S. Greene; adopted sisters, Lindsey N. O'Connell and Julie R. King; a loving & devoted adopted mother, Penny S. O'Connell, nephew, Scott E. Massey, Jr.; nieces, Nae' Yanna Estep and Aria Greene; grandparents, Hattie J. Scott, Leon S. Johnson and Regina C. Gray; great grandparents, Leona M. Mackall, Elsie and Dick Kent; aunts, Mia Scott, Stacy Johnson Lee (Jeffrey), Nicole Johnson, and Ver’Nita Debraux; uncles Tony Johnson (Pam), Leon Johnson Jr., Sidney Johnson (Nina), Michael, Timothy and Christopher Pitcher; two loving & caring godmothers, Adrienne Foote Johnson and Jacqueline D. Brown; special friends, Christina Briggle and Lamar Harris; and a host of great aunts, great uncles, cousins, relatives (Johnson, Kent, Campbell, Gray) and friends.

DeDryon was preceded in rest by his great grandparents, Thomas and Hattie Campbell; great uncles, James Kent, George, William, Thomas and James Campbell.

Sewell Funeral Home in Prince Frederick handled arrangements.

Visitation and services were held at Greater Mt. Zion Church in Prince Frederick.

Gloria Keating, 86 Gloria Louise Keating, age 86, of Dunkirk died in Prince Frederick on January 20, 2013.

She was born in Morrisville, PA to the late Cheston and Hazel Barker Hutchinson. She had lived in Trenton, NJ before moving to this area about six months ago.

Gloria had been employed as an insurance analyst for the New Jersey State Government. She enjoyed visiting with family and friends, travel and playing bocce.

She is survived by her son James Keating Jr. and his partner Rita Gravatt of Roebling, NJ; daughters, Susan Buckalew and partner Dan Davis of Prince Frederick, and Maureen Keating of Dunkirk; brother, John Hutchinson and his wife Helen, of Ewing, NJ; two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Her husband of 37 years, James Keating, predeceased her.

Funeral services and interment were private.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, 460 Totten Pond Road, Suite 400, Waltham, MA 02451 or online at www.lung.org.

Arrangements provided by Raymond-Wood Funeral Home, Dunkirk.

Fred Lewis, 78 Frederick Charles Lewis, Jr., age 78, was born May 10, 1934 and passed away Tuesday, January 22, 2013, at his home in Lusby from complications of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s.

He was the beloved husband of Rita Lewis, loving father of Cindy (and Steve) Bladey, Vallie (and Paul) Cusick, Zenia (and Ed) Wallish, and Laura May Lewis. He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Anna, Clara, and Sam Bladey; Gloria and Grant Coonley; and Elizabeth and Kathleen Wallish.

Fred was a lifelong public servant. He joined the U.S. Army as a musician (trumpeter) at age 20 and served in Germany with the 9th Infantry Division band. Fred and Rita met in his hometown of Port Washington, NY, and were married in 1956. Fred began his career with the Federal Government in the department of HEW / HHS. He retired as director of the division of procurement policy in 1984.

Rausch Funeral Home in Lusby handled arrangements.

Shirley Matthews, 78 Shirley Elizabeth Matthews was born Dec. 23, 1934, in Baltimore to the late William and Hazel Murray. She was raised in Ferndale, MD and attended Bates High School.

She married the late Preston G. Matthews in 1952 and from this union five children were born.

Shirley enjoyed attending Calvert County Baptist Church, where she was an Usher and participated when she could with monthly Food Drive. She also loved shopping, fashion and crafts were one of her favorite hobbies. She also enjoyed volunteering at the Calvert Pines Senior Center where she made floral arrangements and was on the Board of Directors, serving as Secretary.

Shirley was employed by Westinghouse until her retirement in 1995.

One of Shirley’s greatest gifts was her compassion for others. She touched lives everywhere she went. She often inspired and motivated others. She always exhibited love!

Shirley was preceded in death by her late husband, Preston Gaither Matthews and her son, Preston Alonzo Matthews. She is survived by her loving daughters: Pamela S. Cole, Donna C. Owens (Larry), Terry L. Scott (Keith), and Lisa Y.

Walker, eight grandchildren; Darren D. Lambert, Emmanuel Baptist Church, 3800 Old Town Road, Stacey Matthews, Omar J. Scott, Travis A. Huntingtown, MD 20639 or to Calvert Hospice, P. Matthews, Brandon P. Matthews, Allegra T. O. Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

Scott, Aunye’ B. Boone, Remington D. Walker and six great-grandchildren; Devin D. Lambert, Ken Stith, 87 Treyvon Matthews, Alante’ Matthews, Karisma A. Lambert, Daejah Matthews, David Matthews; Kenneth Eugene one brother, Elmer “Teddy” Murray; two “Ken” Stith, age 87, of sisters-in-law, Mabel Lake Murray and Mabel Dunkirk passed away Matthews, two brothers-in-law, James and Roger Feb. 2, 2012 at his Matthews; one uncle, Donald Peterson; one aunt, residence surrounded by Margaret Murray; and a host of nieces, nephews, family. other relatives and friends.

He was born Feb. Sewell Funeral Home in Prince Frederick 17, 1925 in Carthage, handled arrangements.

MO to Lee and Helen (Weaver) Stith. Ken was raised in Hannibal, MO Dan McKirgan, 51 and later moved with his family to Iola, KS where Dan Sean Mc- he graduated from Iola High School in 1943. He Kirgan, age 51, of enlisted in the United States Army on July 3, 1943.

Chesapeake Beach, While in the Army, Ken fought in the Battle of the passed away suddenly on Bulge and was awarded the Bronze Star, Good Conduct, American Campaign, January 31, 2013.

He was born European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign, March 15, 1961 in World War II Victory, and Army of Occupation Cheverly, MD to John Medals and the Victory and American Theatre Lawrence and Patricia Ribbons. He was honorably discharged as a Private Elaine (Clary) First Class on March 13, 1946.

Ken married Betty Eakin on September 7, McKirgan. He was raised in Wheaton, MD and graduated from Northwood 1946 and they lived in Washington, D.C. He was employed as an automotive electrician and later High School in 1979.

Dan married Tracey A. Spigai on May 13, owned and operated Central Brake and Alignment 2000 and they lived in Prince Frederick until in Silver Spring for 25 years, retiring in 1991.

Ken was a member of the 75th Infantry moving to Chesapeake Beach in 2001. He was employed by Giant Food for 27 years and retired in Division Association and was an active member of 2006 as a grocery specialist. After retiring from Christ Congregational Church in Silver Spring.

Giant, Dan worked for Frito Lay as a district sales After retirement, he was very involved in community service, especially helping those in manager.

Dan was a people person and was very need. In his leisure time, Ken enjoyed sports and outgoing. In his leisure time, he enjoyed being on the was an avid Washington Redskins fan, and he also water, boating, traveling, and music. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family.

Ken is survived by his loving wife Betty E. loved spending time with his family, especially his Stith and children Karen V. Bardwell of two sons.

Dan is survived by his loving wife Tracey A. Grasonville, MD, Kevin L. Stith and wife Linda of McKirgan, and his sons Daniel and Timothy Silver Spring, MD, David E. Stith and wife Sarah McKirgan, all of Chesapeake Beach. Also surviving of Lothian, and Lynn E. Stith-Bennett and are siblings Kevin P. McKirgan of Miami, FL, husband Bobby of Dunkirk. Also surviving are Robyn A. Dean of Ashburn, VA, and John B. grandchildren, Kenny and Kristy Bardwell, McKirgan of Rockville, MD; his father in law Joseph Kimberly Stith, Laura Armstrong, Brooke J. Spigai of Chesapeake Beach, and sisters-in-law Morehouse, Amy Bennett, Dana Jackson, Crystal Tara A. and Kereth C. Cowe-Spigai of Salem, MA. and Kyle Bennett, Carrie Dilodovico, Troy Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled Bardwell, Tori Salinas and Todd Bardwell; and arrangements. Memorial contributions may be to: fourteen great-grandchildren.

Ken was preceded in death by a brother, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Philip Merrill Environmental Center, 6 Herndon Avenue, Hollis Stith.

Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled Annapolis MD 21403 (online: cbf.org) or American Heart Association, P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen VA arrangements. Inurnment will be at Arlington National Cemetery.

23058.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Calvert Hospice, P.O. Box 838, 238 Merrimac Doris Smith, 84 Court, Prince Frederick MD 20678.

Doris Marian Smith of Prince Frederick was born August 7, 1928 and passed away February 1, 2013.

Doris was born in Washington, DC to the late Stanley and Helen Pumphrey. She married the late Alan Minnick and gave birth to her first daughter, Dorene. She later married the late Charles Smith and gave birth to her second daughter, Leslie, and 17 months later her son, George.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Stanley Pumphrey, and a sister, Helen Gill. She is survived by Dorene (John) Davis of Fairfield, PA, Leslie Richardson of Myrtle Beach, SC, and George (Connie) Smith of Huntingtown; grandchildren Sean, Kevin, Katie, Crystal and Kyle; great-grandchildren Lillian, Connor, Rece, Owen and Jack; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life was held at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Huntingtown. Lee Funeral Home in Owings handled funeral arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to either

Kathy Walthall, 70 K a t h l e e n Sharon Walthall, “Kathy” as she was known, of North Beach, left her many friends and family on this earth on January 31, 2013 to join her parents and brothers in heaven.

Born April 4, 1942 in Washington D.C., Kathy was the beloved daughter of the late Fred and Mary Randall, and loving sister to the late Donald and Kenneth Randall. Her middle name, Sharon, was short for Shannon. Her parents bought a row house in NW and ran a rooming house. Both parents worked full-time and dad drove a taxi part-time. When Kathy was four years old, her parents bought a house on 28th Place in Washington D.C., SE. She attended Randle Highlands Elementary School, Kramer Jr. High, and Anacostia High School, from

Chesapeake Current

which she graduated in 1960.

Kathy married Walter Walthall on January 6, 1961 in his sister, Jean Daniels’ living room.

Kathy worked for the GSA, Census Bureau, and the Naval Research Lab, and she retired from the NRL in 2007. Kathy was an active member of the North Beach community, supporting many Town initiatives over the years. She enjoyed her time at the VFW in Suitland, MD and the American Legion in Chesapeake Beach.

Kathy loved her friends and neighbors, and was gracious and generous to all that knew her. She was also committed to supporting the troops overseas.

Kathy was a dedicated mother to Darlene Shannon Wahler and Steven Neal Walthall, and to son-in-law William (“Bill”) Frederick Wahler and daughter-in-law Margaret-Alice Walthall. Kathy was a loving and devoted grandmother to her four grandchildren, Kristin Taylor Walthall, Troy Glenwood Walthall, William (“Billy”) Frederick Wahler, Jr., and Jeremy Randall Wahler.

Friends and families are requested to pay their respects on Saturday February 16 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the VFW Post 9619 at 6527 Suitland Road, Suitland, MD. Her family is thankful for all of the kind words, thoughts and prayers at this time.

John Willard, 22 John Russell Willard, age 22, of Lothian passed away January 28, 2013.

He was born June 21, 1990 in Prince Frederick to Glen Russell Willard and Bonnie Jean Mister.

John was raised in Calvert County until moving to Lothian in 2004.

He attended Southern High School in Harwood.

John was employed as a maintenance engineer at Duncan Family Campground in Lothian. He was a hard worker and loved being outdoors, and enjoyed hunting and working on cars. Most of all John enjoyed spending time with his son Hunter.

He is survived by his son, Hunter Russell Willard, mother and step-father Bonnie J. and Michael R. Chapdelaine of Lothian; a sister Amanda M. Harris and husband Joe of Richmond, VA; brother Andy Willard of Chesapeake Beach. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Rausch Funeral Home in Owings handled arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Anne Arundel County Crisis Response System, 43 Community Place, Crownsville MD 21032.

Hester Wood, 101 Hester Elizabeth Wood, age 101, a resident of Genesis Healthcare in Severna Park, MD and formerly of Huntingtown, passed away December 10, 2012.

She was born December 20, 1910 in Huntingtown to Peter and Lydia (Robinson) Anschutz. Hester was preceded in death by her husband Myron E. Wood and a sister M. Evelyn Sansbury. She is survived by a niece Diane S. Kaeding and husband Duane of Pasadena, MD; great-nephews Darrall J. and Bernard C. Kaeding and by several cousins.

Rausch Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Thursday, February 7, 2013 19

The Chesapeake Beach Water Park is now scheduling interviews for the 2013 Season.

Don't Delay! If interested, go to ChesapeakeBeachWaterPark.com and click on Employment Opportunities.

We will be interviewing and hiring on a first come basis.

AND

CLASSIFIEDS Often copied but never duplicated, there’s only one Chesapeake Current.

Don’t be confused by counterfeits that “claim” they’re everything Calvert County when in fact they’re anything but – and their goal is to lure you over the bridge to spend your money in St. Mary’s County. Stay here and support local businesses that provide jobs and keep our economy going in tough times.

The Current, Bay Tripper and Chesapeake Current Cuisine are the only locally-owned and operated newspapers in our area. The Chesapeake Current supports local businesses and our communities in so many ways. We encourage you to patronize our advertisers, all of whom are right here in our area.

The Current keeps it local. Nothing is syndicated, and we have no fillers to take up space. Every issue of the Current is packed with exclusive news and information that matters to you and your family.

Ads in the Chesapeake Current, and our sister publications are very affordable and really work. For more info, email ads@ChesapeakeCurrent.com or call our office at (410) 231-0140.

Help Wanted Dispatcher The Maryland State Police Barrack in Prince Frederick is currently seeking to hire a dispatcher, known as a Police Communications Operator (PCO). The job of PCO entails monitoring police radio communications, dispatching Troopers to calls for service, checking records through police databases, answering telephone calls and other related responsibilities. The job requires the ability to type and multi-task. PCO’s work rotating shifts (7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., 11:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m.). The salary starts at $31,000 per year, with access to various health benefits. Interested candidates should contact Police Communications Operator Supervisor Pam Bryant or Lieutenant Randy Stephens at (410) 535-1400.

Pets Meet Jasper!

Hi! I’m Jasper and I may not have classic good looks. I may resemble a pig/rat/dog a bit. But what I lack in stunning appearance, I make up for in personality! Yep, I'm loads of fun to be around!

I'm happy, I'm goofy and I love to give kisses. I make the staff and volunteers laugh with my silly personality and, really, who doesn't like laughing? So look past my silly ears and big pink nose and see my winning personality and ever so fun attitude! You won't be sorry that you did!

For more information, please visit: HumaneSocietyOfCalvertCounty.org or visit all the animals available in person at the Humane Society of

20 Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

Calvert County, 2210 Dalrymple Road in Sunderland. Phone: (410) 257-4908. Be sure to say you read about this pet in the Chesapeake Current!

Here are a few of the pets available for adoption from Anne Arundel Animal Control this week: Peebles Peebles is a white and gray female domestic short hair cat, white and gray, estimated to be about a year old. She was brought in as a stray by a citizen.

Mikey Mikey is an orange tiger domestic short hair cat, estimated to be about six years old. He is an altered male who was brought in by a citizen as a stray.

Kassie Kassie is a gray domestic short hair cat, estimated to be about three years old. She’s an altered female.

Kevin Kevin is a male (altered) pig, estimated to be about 8 months old.

He’s white and tan and was given up for adoption by his owners.

For more information about these or any of the many other lovable animals currently needing homes, contact Anne Arundel County Animal Control at (410) 222-8900. Be sure to say you saw them in the Chesapeake Current! (Note: Animal Control is now closed on Mondays).

Every Thursday from noon to 3:00 p.m., Anne Arundel County Animal Control offers a low cost rabies vaccination clinic. All dogs must be on leashes and all cats must be in carriers. Be sure to bring a bowl and water for your animal to drink while you wait in line. This clinic is for Anne Arundel County residents only and proof of residence will be required. Call (410) 222-8900 for more info.

Pride & Joy

By Jenny Kellner

Creating A Positive, “No Bully” Zone Several young women in the Northern Calvert area are very proud of the “The Change Club” they have created to bring young people together to discuss and deter the pervasive issue of bullying. The club has been in existence since August 2011 and started out being just for girls. Now, the founders are hoping to expand its membership to include both girls and boys in grades 6-12.

The club’s mission statements include combating bullying, promoting friendship, and developing self-esteem. They meet twice a month on Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 pm at the Northeast Community Center in Chesapeake Beach. Members rotate the role of meeting leadership, planning and implementing the agenda, which often includes guest speakers.

Visiting adults have included representatives from the Sherriff’s Department, a school counselor, and a nutritionist.

A founding member, Jessica Austin, age 13 of Chesapeake Beach, says, “It’s good to stand up for the victims [of bullying]. It lets them know that they are not alone.”

Other members include Megan Coffren of Plum Point Middle School, and Jasmine Holder, a freshman at Northern High School.

Jasmine became involved with the club while attending a summer camp in 2011 at Northeast Community Center.

Paul Lundberg, of Calvert County’s Parks and Recreation, had heard that Jessica and Megan were starting an anti-bullying club. He recognized Jasmine’s leadership skills and mentioned the club to her. Jasmine has been an active member ever since.

Many teens and pre-teens around the country are taking action to stand up to bullies at schools and in their neighborhoods. One such group in California is appropriately named, “Stand Up.” Many of these are led by the children themselves, who have seen a need and want to make a change.

Locally, “The Change Club” has

Megan Coffren, Jasmine Holder, and Jessica Austin, founders of “The Change Club.”

provided community service by making donations to Toys for Tots and providing food to families in need. They held a yard sale to raise funds for these endeavors. They have written and produced a skit with an anti-bullying message. The skit has been performed for both a Girl Scout troop and at a church. The girls are hoping to continue performing their skit for young audiences, but are in need of a greater membership base and a business sponsor.

The need for a change in the way children and teens relate to one another was evident in the matter-of-fact but urgent tone in Jessica Austin’s voice when she said simply, “Bullying needs to stop. It is not ok.”

The Change Club is always accepting new members. For information about visiting a meeting or joining, please email lgaustin@comcast.net.

About the Author: Jenny Kellner is a mother, teacher and Girl Scout leader. She lives in North Beach with her husband, Joe, and their four children, and serves on the town’s Historic Preservation Commission.

Thanks For a Job Well Done As part of the annual National Love the Bus program this month, parents, students and teachers are celebrating the over two hundred school bus drivers employed by the 25 members of the Calvert County School Bus Contractors Association. These drivers transport up to 15,000 students safely to and from schools in Calvert County each day.

Dwight Bishop, Sr. owner of Bishop Bus Service, Inc. in Lusby, and the President of the Calvert County School Bus Contractors Association said, “I am grateful that students, parents and school staff take a few moments during the month of February to say thank you to our bus driver. Bus drivers care about students, are well-trained and are committed to safely transporting students to and from school.”

In Calvert County, school buses travel approximately 3.2 million miles each year while transporting students to school and school

activities.

To thank their bus drivers, students and staff at Beach Elementary School will be providing bus drivers with survival snack bags. At Appeal Elementary, each class will make a card for a bus driver. On Valentine’s Day, drivers will be given the card and an individually wrapped honey bun with a label saying, “Thanks for providing such a sweet ride for us at Appeal!”

The Love the Bus program, founded in 2007 and coordinated by the American School Bus Council is celebrated throughout February in school districts across the country as a way to raise awareness and appreciation for the hundreds of thousands of school bus drivers who safely transport more than 26 million school children to and from school each day. This year, Calvert County’s celebration will coincide with Valentine’s Day.

Chesapeake Current

Thursday, February 7, 2013 21

CURRENT EVENTS Celebrate Black History Month Arts Council of Calvert County will host an Artist Reception at the CalvArt Gallery on Feb. 23 at 5:00 p.m. to celebrate the work of County resident Dona Baker in conjunction with African American History Month.

Ms. Baker is a teacher in the Calvert County Public Schools and her work in ceramics and painting is highly regarded. Ms. Baker’s work has been shown at the Rappahannock Art League, Ann Marie Gardens and at the CalvArt Gallery. The work of Ms. Baker will be at the CalvArt Gallery through the end of February.

The CalvArt Gallery and the Arts Council of Calvert County are located in the Prince Frederick Shopping Center next to Sakura Restaurant, 110 South Solomons Island Road, Prince Frederick.

The Arts Council of Calvert County is supported by citizen donations, funding from the Board of County Commissioners of Calvert County and the Maryland State Arts Council.

New Dance Classes Scheduled Here’s a great idea for you and your Valentine: learn to dance! The non-profit Davidsonville Dance Club (DDC) has several series of classes coming up: Beginning Wednesday, February 13, 2013 for 8 weeks Davidsonville Dance Club

7:00 PM Tango - Basic I 8:00 PM West Coast Swing - Basic II Professional Instructor No partner required $60 plus $10 membership fee for the year 2013 For information call (301) 809-0288 Beginning Friday, March 8, 2013 for 8 weeks Davidsonville Dance Club 7:00 PM Quickstep - Basic II 8:00 PM Cha Cha - Basic I International Style Professional Instructor No partner required $60 plus $10 membership fee for the year 2013 For information call (410) 257-0631 Beginning Tuesday, March 5, 2013 for 8 weeks Davidsonville Dance Club 6:30 pm Tango - Intermediate Level 7:45 pm Quickstep - Intermediate Level Couples only Variations and Routines for experienced dancers looking for variety.

Professional Instructor $60 plus $10 membership fee for the year 2013 For information call (301) 262-0347

Prices Good Thru Feb. 11

Full line available. See us for all your building material needs!

We Deliver!!

Shop Local * Shop Small Businesses

22 Thursday, February 7, 2013 Chesapeake Current

CURRENT EVENTS Income Tax Help A free service offered at Anne Arundel County Library branches for Senior citizens and low-income residents.

AARP volunteers trained by the Internal Revenue Service and the Maryland Comptroller’s Office will assist taxpayers over age 60 and those in low-income tax brackets prepare their Federal and State tax returns.

AARP membership is not required.

South County Library Branch, Deale Mon., Feb. 4 through Fri., Apr. 12 Please call Jeanine Smith at (410) 867-4970 to ask questions or to schedule an appointment. Selfservice electronic filing is available using the library computers.

Annapolis Branch Fridays, Feb. 1 through Apr. 12 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Volunteers will be available to answer tax questions and assist with tax form preparation. This drop-in service requires no registration and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Thru Feb. 24 Marc Castelli: The Art of the Waterman at Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center, 13480 Dowell Road, Solomons. This exhibit features 23 paintings by renowned Chesapeake artist Marc Castelli, on loan from the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michael’s, MD. Seventeen of the paintings were donated to the museum from the Diane Simison collection. The remaining images are from the artist’s personal collection. (410) 326-4640 or annmariegarden.org.

Saturday, Feb. 9

Sunday. Space is limited; registration is highly recommended. Please contact Shelby Potts at (410) 474-0742 or somdcan@comcast.net with your request for a one hour time slot on Feb. 10. (Inclement weather date is Feb. 24).

At the Calvert Library, Prince Frederick, 850 Costley Way. Please bring your student and parent 2012 tax or estimated tax information to the event to ensure accuracy.

Soup & Science Lecture Series: noon-3:00 pm (subject: Invasive Snakehead Fish) by the Friends of Jug Bay in Lothian. Enjoy a variety of hearty home-made soups and fresh bread with fellow nature lovers. Then sit back with a cup of coffee or tea, and dessert and enjoy listening to guest speakers discuss their research projects. Free. Registration is required. Call (410) 741-9330 or e-mail programs@jugbay.org for more info.

Tuesday, Feb. 12 Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. All you can eat - full menu. $9 adults, $4.50 (6-12), under 6 free. (410) 257-7133. Friendship Methodist is one block east of Friendship Circle on Rt. 2, just 1-1/4 mile north of the signal at MD Rts. 2 & 260 in Owings.

Wednesday, Feb. 13 Ash Wednesday Worship Service. 7:30 p.m. at Friendship Methodist Church. Music by the Voices in Praise Youth Choir. (410) 257-7133. Friendship Methodist is one block east of Friendship Circle on Rt. 2, just 1-1/4 mile north of the signal at MD Rts. 2 & 260 in Owings.

contact Asst. Pastor Jack Thomas (410) to be explored. Bundle up and enjoy a winter 867-4035 or visit mzumc.com. hike; there are always surprises! As you explore, the group will discuss winter survival strategies Great Backyard Bird Count: Become a of the Sanctuary’s plants and animals. Adults citizen scientist! People of all ages can join the and children ages 8 and older. Registration is fun of the annual Great Backyard Bird Count required. Call (410) 741-9330 or e-mail (GBBC) at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary in programs@jugbay.org.

Lothian. Learn about common backyard birds, how the GBBC collects data, then take a Children’s Discovery Series: Winter stroll with us to see some live wild birds. All Wonderland from 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. at ages welcome. 10:00 a.m. – noon. Registration Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary in Lothian. required. Call (410) 741-9330 or e-mail Explore the winter woods on a naturalist-led programs@jugbay.org. hike. Animal tracks, tree holes, beaver chew and much more can be found if you know Winter Hike Series organized by Jug Bay what to look for. Bundle up for an outdoor Wetlands Sanctuary in Lothian. The Feb. 16 adventure. For families with children 6 years the hike will be at Wooton’s Landing from and older. Registration is required for all 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Despite the cold programs. Call (410) 741-9330 or e-mail temperatures, nature is still out there waiting programs@jugbay.org.

Want to see your non-profit group’s event in the Chesapeake Current? Email complete details along with contact information at least three weeks in advance to editor@ChesapeakeCurrent.com.

Teddy Bear Tea Party: In the Kids ‘N’ Critters series for ages 3 to 5. Do you like furry animals? Then this class is for you! Bring your favorite stuffed animal or teddy bear to learn what all mammals have in common. Take an up close look at some bones and skins from local mammals, and learn what clues these mammals leave behind that we can find. End by taking your stuffed friends for a walk and then have snack.

10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Nature Center. Cost per child: $3.00/BCNES members $1.00. Adult participation is encouraged. Reservations required. Email: cypressswamp@co.cal.md.us.

Career & Technology Academy: Team reservations are now being accepted to participate in the 2013 Career & Technology Academy’s 25th Annual SkillsUSA Bowl-A-Thon to be held from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00p.m. at Lord Calvert Bowl in Huntingtown. Corporate sponsors are also needed. Contact Robin Brady at the Academy Saturday, Feb. 16 at (410) 535-7450 or (301) 855-9266 for details. Cash prizes and door prizes will be Red Cross Blood Drive sponsored by the awarded throughout the event!

Third Saturday Servants of the Mount Zion United Methodist Church, 22 Bayard Rd, Lothian MD 20711 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 10 Super storm Sandy has depleted the blood College Goal Sunday from 12:00 noon – supply which needs to be replenish. Also the 4:00 p.m. Free program that helps high school holiday season always stresses the need for seniors and their parents/guardians complete blood donors. Help support this project and and file the universally required Free the Red Cross. A goal of 55 units has been set.

Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) There will be time slots available for people to form online. SoMD CAN/ College Access give Double Red Cells. In addition to the Network and the Calvert County Public Blood Drive, Mt Zion will have several other Library are co-sponsors of this event where community service projects that day. You may families will be assisted by Financial Aid want to cook food for the sick or needy, cut professionals in completing the FAFSA on the wood for the elderly, or help knit hats for Web. A $500 Scholarship opportunity is newborns and blankets for the sick. Either available for students who complete their way, we welcome you to join us in serving our FAFSA on the dates of the College Goal community. For additional information

Chesapeake Current

Thursday, February 7, 2013 23