Calvert Priceless Gazetteeverything Calvert County

February 16, 2012 Calvert Priceless GazetteEverything Calvert County

Firefighter Picked For iggest oser esort ‘B L ’ R Page 8 The Calvert Gazette Thursday, February 16, 2012 2

On The Cover Also Inside Monk Wells with his son, Mason. Wells coached his son in flag football last year despite his concern 3 County News over not being able to do the things he asked of his players. “I needed to stop hiding.” 7 Business 7 Community 8 Feature Story

9 Newsmakers entertainment Last comic standing veterans Tammy Pescatelli and Jeff Maurer will be coming to Calvert County for a one-night stand during the fourth annual Comedy Invasion for Project Gradation 10 Obits this Saturday. 11 Education 12 Games 13 Letters 14 Entertainment education QBH15 St M County TImesFishing Half Ad:Layout 1Louie, 3/1/11 the Bowie 3:28 Baysox PM mascot, Page 1greets Our Lady Star of the Sea School students after performing a skit on why he chose baseball as his favorite sport.

MHBR No. 103 3 Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Calvert Gazette COUNTY High-Speed Chase NEWS Ends in Calvert O’Donnell Calls Hoyer’s Comment St. Mary’s College of Mary- land, said that Hoyer is cor- ‘Imbecilic’ rect but not passing a budget is a poor way to do business. By Guy Leonard “He is technically cor- Staff Writer rect, they can continue to op- erate without a budget,” said The Republican chal- Eberly. “It’s not a good way lenger running to unseat to do it.” House Minority Whip Steny Passing continuing H. Hoyer slammed the veteran resolutions is a way for both representative for comments Del. Anthony O’Donnell parties to criticize the bud- made in the press that passing gets of any president without a federal budget is unnecessary to continue running actually putting out their own budgets for equally the country. tough scrutiny, Eberly said. In a recent article on the conservative website It is a political reality at the federal level, he CNSNews.com, Hoyer was quoted as saying: “The said, because any budget that deals with the deficit fact is you don’t need a budget. We can adopt appro- and crippling national debt would be unpopular. priations bills. We can adopt authorization policies “Our finances are so bad that it would be im- Photo by Sean Rice without a budget. We already have an agreed-upon possible to put forward a responsible budget without In this image, damage can be seen on the front end of a Calvert Sheriff’s vehicle cap on spending.” angering people,” Eberly said. and at the rear of Wood’s pickup truck caused by a PIT maneuver. Del. Anthony O’Donnell (R-Dist. 29C) called Congress passed the Budget Impoundment Hoyer’s comments “imbecilic” in a statement from and Control Act in 1974 to take back power from the By Guy Leonard PIT (pursuit interven- his campaign. executive branch when it came to the budgeting pro- Staff Writer tion technique) maneu- “It is no wonder our debt is now over $16 tril- cess, Eberly said, but failing to pass a budget dimin- ver to stop the fleeing lion dollars. Our congressman failed to pass a bud- ished confidence in Congress’s ability to govern. A high-speed chase that went up to vehicle. get when he was House Majority Leader with a “It doesn’t encourage long term planning or 100 miles an hour involving a suspect from In a PIT maneu- Democratic senate and president and now we know discipline and it doesn’t encourage confidence with Hollywood traversed three counties before ver, police ram the rear why,” O’Donnell stated, accusing Hoyer of wanting foreign investors or credit ratings agencies,” Eberly a “blank check” for favored programs. state troopers and Calvert County sheriff’s end of a vehicle in pur- said. Hoyer was quoted in the original story as say- Maureen Beach, spokesperson for Hoyer, said deputies ended it in the northern portion of suit in a certain manner the county last week. ing that Republicans failed to pass budgets in 2005 that congress has already acted to control spending. that causes the vehicle and 2006 but O’Donnell fired back by saying GOP “Congress passed the Budget Control Act in The suspect, Ronald Edward Wood, to spin around 180 de- 52, netted a total of 28 charges, including members did pass bills in those years. August, which set our budget for this fiscal year,” grees, causing the driver Todd Eberly, a professor of political science at she said. driving under the influence of drugs, nu- to stop. merous speeding violations, negligent and “They pitted the car reckless driving and running a red light, for the safety of others according to the arresting trooper. on the road,” Lt. Steve Jones, commander Trooper First Class Joseph Wilson, of the Calvert Investigative Team said. stationed in Upper Marlboro, began the Wilson said when officers finally chase in Prince George’s County when brought an end to the chase, Wood gave Wood passed him at a high rate of speed. up without much of a struggle but seemed “I caught up with him and he was do- confused and incoherent. A Calvert Ga- ing 95 miles an hour,” Wilson said, adding zette reporter was on the scene, and wit- that Wood refused to pull over despite the nessed numerous officers ordering Wood troopers emergency lights ordering him to. out of the vehicle with their guns drawn. “He just continued to do 95,” the Field tests showed he had no alcohol trooper told the Calvert Gazette. in his system but a drug recognition ex- The chase stopped initially at Town pert called to the scene suspected that he Center Boulevard in Dunkirk, Wilson was under the influence of drugs, Wilson said, when Wood stopped at the traffic sig- said. nal; but when Wilson tried to block Wood The chase went through Prince in the suspect allegedly sped off, ignoring George’s Anne Arundel and finally Cal- his orders to come out of the vehicle. vert, police said, with 12 of the 28 charges The chase continued until additional against Wood coming from Calvert. units from the Calvert sheriff’s office in- tercepted Wood and used what is called a [email protected]

General Antique and Gun Estate collectable Auction- Auction Friday, February Sunday, April Friday, February 24th - 6 p.m. 1st - 1 p.m. 17th - 6 p.m. Consignments Now Being Accepted Chesapeake Auction House St. Leonard, MD 20685 • 410-586-1161 • chesapeakeauctionhouse.com COUNTY The Calvert Gazette Thursday, February 16, 2012 4 NEWS Speed Cameras Go Up in Chesapeake Beach Judge By Guy Leonard Staff Writer Compares Speed enforcement cameras made their debut in Chesapeake Beach on Feb. 10 after months of planning, said Town Administra- Hurricane tor James Parent, in an effort to curb speeders as they come upon Beach Elementary School. Insurance Parent said that the hill just before the entrance into town often forces people to increase their speed to crest it, but that can Decision cause them to break the 30-mile-per-hour limit there. “They go over that hill speeding … and all of a sudden you’re in a school zone,” Par- to Godzilla ent said. Calvert County sheriff’s deputies were on station with the speed cameras last week Attack testing them against their radar sensors and, Parent said, they functioned properly. By Guy Leonard Though the cameras were installed on Staff Writer the side of the road in a very visible position, motorists will still have 30-days before the Allstate Insurance Company won its bid in the Court of Ap- cameras will take pictures of speeders that can be peals to continue the practice of Free InItIal ConsultatIon used to dole out citations. not selling homeowners’ insur- “It’s a 30-day get-used-to-it period,” Parent ance in Southern Maryland and said, adding that the pictures taken by the cameras the Eastern Shore because those The law offices of P.a. Hotchkiss & associates go to a police review before any tickets are mailed areas lay in potential paths of ex- Providing Excellent Service For Over 20 Years to speeders. treme magnitude hurricanes. “If you are 12 miles over the speed limit … The court reported recently Auto Accidents they can send you a ticket,” Parent said. “They its opinion in the case brought [defendants] have the right to go to court and the against Allstate by the state’s Peo- Workers’ comp police will go to court, too.” ple’s Insurance Counsel Division. • Divorce/Separation Parent said he has received only one call in One of the judges wrote a separate • Support/Custody opposition to the cameras but that they have re- opinion that both concurs with • Domestic Violence ceived broad support otherwise. court’s ruling but also dissents on • Criminal/Traffic “This has been going on since last summer several key points. • DWI/MVA Hearings … it’s just that it took this long to get it started The plaintiff argued that All- Scan this “Times Code” Power of Attorney because of the permits we had to get,” Parent said. state’s practice of exclusion of the with your smart phone • Name Change • Adoption “The overall reaction of the town council and the counties was discriminatory. • Wills • Guardianship people was it was a good thing. The majority opinion of the Accepting: “It’s not been a secret,” he said. Court of Appeals affirmed an earlier decision by the Maryland 99 Smallwood Dr. Waldorf, MD • 206 Washignton Ave. LaPlata, MD [email protected] Insurance Commissioner that All- SERVING CHARLES • ST. MARY’S • PG • CALVERT (301) 932-7700 (301) 870-7111 state was reasonable in its decision to deny new insurance policies, because it produced probability Do You Feel Crabby When You Get Your models to show it could not economically sustain the risk of the new policies. Insurance Bill in the Mail? Give Us A Call. Allstate argued that it used probability models, instead of actual evidence, when deciding to reject new policies because hurricanes in Maryland are a You’ll Be Glad You Did. rare event and actual statistics are not in abundance, according to the latest court reports. Judge Glenn T. Harrell, in his dissenting opinion, likened Allstate’s worries about devastating hurricanes in the Chesapeake Bay area, and the lack of evidence thereof, to fearing the damage Godzilla would wreck upon Japan. “Although my opening analogy is silly, it is so intentionally to illustrate my view that the [Insur- Gary Simpson ance] Commissioner’s and this court’s approval of Matt Laidley Allstate’s discriminatory decision is wrongheaded,” Katie Facchina Harrell wrote. “Recorded history on the subject 7480 Crain Highway shows, again and again, that a catastrophic hurricane La Plata, MD 20646 301-934-8437 … has not made landfall in Maryland yet.” Harrell pointed out that Allstate’s computer model predicted such a hurricane would “make land- April Hancock fall in Maryland every 25,000 years,” yet the court PO Box 407 An Independent Agent Representing: ERIE INSURANCE GROUP still affirmed their business decision. Bryans Road, MD 20616 Standing: Dan Burris, Jake Kuntz, Seated: Lisa Squires, Susan Ennis, Donna Burris “The basis for this decision is folly,” Harrell 301-743-9000 wrote. “The decision contravenes precedent, which requires insurers to justify the withdrawal of a line of Burris’ Olde Towne Insurance insurance in less then the entire state with a statisti- Auto - Home - Business - Life cal basis grounded in probability, not hypotheticals.” Leonardtown, MD • Bus: (301) 475-3151 www.danburris.com [email protected] Our Lady Open House Star of the Sea School A private, 5 Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Calvert Gazetteco-educational Catholic Join us on school located in historic Wednesday, Feb.1 southernOurOurOur LadyLady Lady Maryland. Open House StarStarStar ofof of thethe the SeaSea Sea SchoolSchool School and find out how we can OpenOpen HouseHouse NowA private, enrolling AA private, private, co-educational Catholic co-educationalco-educational Catholic Catholic help prepare your child Pre-Kschool located through in historic grade 8. schoolschool located located in in historic historic for a successful future. southernsouthernsouthern Maryland. Maryland. Maryland. NowNowPhNow enrolling enrolling 410-326-3171 enrolling Join us on Tuesday, Feb. 21 Pre-KPre-KPre-K through through through grade grade grade 8. 8. 8. Schedule of events: OPEN HOUSE PhPh 410-326-3171 Ph410-326-3171 410-326-3171 8 a.m. Children's Liturgy: Don't miss the& Pancake Supper children's mass in our historic chapel.5pm See forto 7pm yourself how our students learn aboutand Christian find out how we can help prepare your child behavior and are encouraged to lead a life of for a successful future. kindness, generosity and service to others. You Individual Tours by Appointment will be amazed at the confidence and Toursgrace Availableour students portray at such a young age. Call for details: PH 410-326-3171

9 a.m. School Presentation: Meet members of our school's leadership and learn more about the OurOur Lady Lady Star Star of of the the Sea Sea curriculum and special opportunities our school P.O.P.O.Our Box Box Lady 560, 560, Star90 90 Alexander Alexanderof the Sea Lane Lane Solomons,Solomons,P.O. Box MD MD560, 20688 9020688 Alexander Lane has to offer. www.olsss.orgwww.olsss.orgSolomons, MD 20688 www.olsss.org

FromFrom points points north: north: TakeTakeFrom Route Route points 2/4 2/4 south north:south toward toward Solomons. Solomons. Take Take the the last last exit exit before before crossing crossing the the Patuxent Patuxent River River on on the the Thomas Thomas Johnson Johnson BridgeBridge (it (it is is a a right right exit) exit) 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. Classroom Tours followingfollowingTake Route the the 2/4signs signs south to to Rt. Rt. toward 2 2 South/Solomons South/Solomons Solomons. Take Island. Island. the At Atlast the the exit stop stop before sign, sign, turncrossing turn left left the ontoonto Patuxent the the accessaccess River road. road. on Take Takethe the Thomasthe firstfirst right rightJohnson ontoonto BridgeRt. Rt. 2 2 Solomons (itSolomons is a right Island Island exit) Road.Road.following Turn Turn theleft left signs onon Alexander toAlexander Rt. 2 South/Solomons LaneLane from from RtRt 2/Solomons2/Solomons Island. At Island Islandthe stop RoadRoad sign, andand turn the the leftchurchchurch onto andand the schoolschool access will willroad. bebe ononTake the the the right.right. first right onto Rt. 2 Solomons Island FromFromRoad. points pointsTurn leftsouth: south: on Alexander Lane from Rt 2/Solomons Island Road and the church and school will be on the right. Take Route 2/4 north toward Solomons. Cross the Thomas Johnson Bridge. Take the first exit after crossing the bridge toward Rt. 2 South/ TakeFrom Route points 2/4 south:north toward Solomons. Cross the Thomas Johnson Bridge. Take the first exit after crossing the bridge toward Rt. 2 South/ SolomonsSolomons Island. Island. Turn Turn right right at at the the stop stop sign sign onto onto Rt. Rt. 2 2 Solomons Solomons Island Island Road. Road. Turn Turn left left onon AlexanderAlexander LaneLane from from RtRt 2/Solomons2/Solomons Island Island RoadRoad andand Take Route 2/4 north toward Solomons. Cross the Thomas Johnson Bridge. Take the first exit after crossing the bridge toward Rt. 2 South/ thethe church church and and school school will will be be on on the the right. right. Solomons Island. Turn right at the stop sign onto Rt. 2 Solomons Island Road. Turn left on Alexander Lane from Rt 2/Solomons Island Road and the church and school will be on the right.

Our Lady Star of the Sea P.O. Box 560, 90 Alexander Lane Solomons, MD 20688 www.olsss.org

From points north: Take Route 2/4 south toward Solomons. Take the last exit before crossing the Patuxent River on the Thomas Johnson Bridge (it is a right exit) following the signs to Rt. 2 South/Solomons Island. At the stop sign, turn left onto the access road. Take the first right onto Rt. 2 Solomons Island Road. Turn left on Alexander Lane from Rt 2/Solomons Island Road and the church and school will be on the right. From points south: Take Route 2/4 north toward Solomons. Cross the Thomas Johnson Bridge. Take the first exit after crossing the bridge toward Rt. 2 South/ Solomons Island. Turn right at the stop sign onto Rt. 2 Solomons Island Road. Turn left on Alexander Lane from Rt 2/Solomons Island Road and the church and school will be on the right.

The Calvert Gazette Thursday, February 16, 2012 6 Today is a great day to be a Burch COUNTY Customer! NEWS School Funding Starts With Maintenance of Effort

By Sarah Miller the schools, and when the student leaves the Staff Writer district, that percent is subtracted from the next year’s MOE number. Along with the possibility of counties Counties that fail to fund the school becoming responsible for funding teacher district at MOE once had the threat of los- pensions, there is an effort in Annapolis to ing some state funding, but with state fund- clarify the state’s Maintenance of Effort re- ing dropping with the economy, Hayden said quirement on counties. there is less incentive for counties to fund Maintenance of Effort (MOE) is the schools at MOE. Last year, he said seven bottom-line funding counties are required counties did not meet MOE funding. to supply to local schools. It is a per-pupil Hayden said there is a waiver counties funding level, with an adjustment made for can seek if they will not meet MOE although the number of students. not all counties that failed to meet MOE re- Unlike other counties, Calvert uses quested a waiver. its own funding formula to determine the Superintendent Jack Smith said schools school’s budget instead of starting with are also penalized when not funded at MOE FIND OUT MOE and building from there. Calvert’s lo- by the counties, and he hopes legislation can cal formula has consistently worked out to provide a fix, so schools will not be penal- be greater than the state MOE, though the ized when counties fail to meet the formula. MORE formula expired this year, according to the A flyer from Maryland Association of county’s Department of Finance and Bud- Boards of Education and other organiza- ABOUT US! get Director Tim Hayden. tions details the goals for fixing MOE. They The Board of Education is currently include: helping school districts with find- working with the county to create a new ing and applying for new revenue sources; formula, though there is still work to be reviewing the waiver process counties can PRODUCTS done before a new formula can be agreed go through if they can not meet MOE; mak- upon. ing sure school funding calculations do not Tankless “I would always think that would include retirement and pension costs; and, be our starting point,” Hayden said of the reviewing the process counties go through to Water state’s MOE formula. obtain a waiver. Under MOE, each student accounts for Heaters a specific percentage of the money given to [email protected] Burch Propane is excited Heating Systems to announce William Unkle Generators and Kathy Rickett have Drug Card Program May joined our sales, service and Fireplace Inserts installation team. William Provide County Extra Cash Cook Tops has 40 years experience servicing propane systems By Sarah Miller Calvert County has been involved in throughout Southern Staff Writer the program since July 2009. Goldschmidt SERVICES said between 300 and 400 prescriptions are Maryland. Kathy’s back- Customers won’t be losing any ben- filled per month through the program for the efits, but changes and even additional sav- county. Equipment ground includes experience ings could be on the horizon for Calvert’s According to the county’s website, sav- in parts, supply and sales - Prescription Drug Discount Program. ings average 22 percent per prescription and Installations Calvert County has been offered two more than 59,000 pharmacies nationwide ac- in both residential and options moving forward with the program cept the card, including Wal-Mart and other Automatic offered by the National Association of Coun- chain and independent pharmacies. The commercial. ties (NACo) – either keep the program as it cards are available to all county residents and Deliveries is, or sign on with a change that would give there is no enrollment form, membership fee, the county money every time a prescription age requirement and or limit of the card’s use. The experience and is filled through the program. If the county chooses the revenue shar- Emergency NACo Director of Membership Mar- ing option, officials can use the money how- Service knowledge these two stars keting Andrew Goldschmidt said custom- ever they see fit. bring to Burch Propane ers using the cards will see no change if the Hoffman said she hopes the money county chooses to go with the revenue shar- would go toward benefiting Calvert County EZ Pay Plans will help us continue to ing program, giving the county money each residents and health initiatives. time a prescription is filled. The savings She said she believes NACo is offering provide the best sales they get will not decrease. For customers in the new option as a way to remain competi- and service to all of our counties choosing to stay with their current tive in the face of the “uptick” in companies plan, customers may see a slight increase in and entrepreneurs offering similar programs. customers. the savings they get. Goldschmidt confirmed her theory, saying Calvert County Department of Com- there are other companies offering similar Contact munity Resources Director Maureen Hoff- programs, and NACo waited until they had man said the county has not decided what an option that would not negatively impact Kathy Rickett option they will take; they are still weighing the customers using the program before they at 301-904-3519 or the costs and the benefits. Ultimately, they rolled it out. [email protected] will take the decision to the Board of County For more information, visit www.co.cal. Commissioners. md.us/prescriptiondrugcard.asp. “We’ve been very happy with it,” she said. [email protected] 7 Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Calvert Gazette

Electronics Recycling Day Set The Calvert County Department of Public Works, Division of Solid Waste, is hosting an electronics recycling collection day on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at two county locations – the Appeal Landfill at 401 Sweetwater Road in Lusby and Huntingtown High School at 4125 Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown. The event will give Calvert County residents and businesses the opportunity to safely dispose of consumer electronics items free of charge, a county press release states. Common electronics items accepted include computers and printers, cable and satel- lite receivers, stereos, televisions and monitors, battery backups, fax machines, DVD players, cash registers and point-of-sale systems, scanners, game systems, cell phones, printer cartridges and rechargeable batteries. Collection is limited to Calvert County residents and businesses only. For more information, call the Calvert County Department of Public Works, Division of Solid Waste, at 410-326-0210 or visit the Calvert County website at www.co.cal.md.us. Protect Personal Info Before Recycling Electronics

By Corrin M. Howe D.C. by building new networks and main- Staff Writer taining current networks. “Rich (the owner) says that you have to Electronic Recycling Days can sound maintain your networks just like your car,” like a mixed blessing to Calvert County Res- said Frost. “Similar to changing oil and idents concerned with protecting personal checking the engine, our service monthly information stored on devices; however, service contracts make sure the computers there is a way residents can take advantage have their Microsoft and anti-virus updates of these days without giving up peace of and can back up and replace all the com- mind, according to Jim Frost, from R-Tech pany’s data.” Consulting, LLC. Frost said he takes advantage of the “The safest thing to do is to take out the county recycling location at Mt. Hope. But hard drive,” said Frost. “Hard drives don’t he’s sure to remove his cli- take up a lot of space. Drill a hole through ents’ hard drives first. the hard drive. That’s the standard for destroying.” Some companies have programs which can wipe off a hard drive. Frost admits that most people are probably not as careful as they should be to protect themselves before recycling electronics. R-Tech Consulting is been in the business of helping small businesses of 10 or less employees with their computer needs. They serve Calvert and Prince George’s counties along with Virginia and Washington, Community

Buffalo Wild Wings Donates to Habitat

Alan Shirley, General Manager for the new Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant in Lexington Park, along with his staff, presented Pamela Shubert, Execu- tive Director of Patuxent Habitat for Humanity, with a check for $1,602. Buffalo Wild Wings chose Habitat for Hu- manity as their charity to donate a portion of the proceeds of sales from their opening weekend to assist Habitat in their mission of providing safe, decent, affordable housing in Calvert and St. Mary’s Counties. The Calvert Gazette Thursday, February 16, 2012 8

STORY Support Made Local a Winner in ‘Biggest Loser’

By Corrin M. Howe Nine other people have four or five months Staff Writer to get themselves in better shape before they get their butts kicked. But then that’s When Merrill “Monk” Wells, 34, had the reason why we are all going out there knee surgery 14 months ago the nurse asked because we aren’t there yet.” how much he weighed. He thought he was Although he’s looking forward to go- over 400 pounds. ing to the resort and learning about what he “The nurse said, ‘I have news for you, can do better, he’s also dreading leaving his the bed scale goes up to 550 pounds. You son for a month. are over that.’ … I knew then I needed to “He’s everything to me. But it is the change,” Wells told the Calvert Gazette. right thing to do,” he said. In the past year he’s lost at least 100 The resort sent him a schedule indi- pounds, getting down to his current weight cating that he would not be free until 7 p.m. of 450. He’s been using Body by Vi and during the weeknights, and with the three- walking at least an hour every day. When hour time difference it will mean he won’t the Biggest Loser Resort in Malibu, Calif., have a chance to talk to his son as often as announced its “A Year of You” video con- he would like. Wells said he’s already made test on Facebook, he decided to give it a some videos and written letters for those shot. nights when he can’t call. The resort accepted150 videos through Wells said one of the things he’s most December 2011. Online voting whittled the proud of is that he came away from the videos down to the top 30 and the judges contest in the number one spot with the picked the final 10 winners to spend four help of his local community and on his weeks at the resort. own. He tried not to be discouraged when “Why is The Biggest Loser Resort the other contestants went on television, giving away four weeks free to 10 people? gave interviews and received celebrity Well, it's simple, because we CARE! So endorsements. many people struggle with weight-related It was “100 percent community sup- issues for the primary reason that they ported. Every time I went on Facebook I have been unable to put themselves first. have a message from people I don’t know. Whether because of financial, physical or The Red Octopus sent me a message ask- emotional challenges, a major stumbling ing when I leave,” he said, adding he was block for overweight individuals tends to surprise by the “amount of people I don’t be the same - an unbalanced lifestyle,” the know who said ‘You’re the one.’” announcement on The Biggest Loser Resort blog reads. Wells said he shot his video 15 times “Pay It Forward” before he had the one he wanted to submit. Wells is a Captain at Fort Detrick Prior to the contest, no one in his family Fire Department at Forest Glen Station knew how much he weighed. He wouldn’t 54 (formerly known as Walter Reed). He allow his fiancée, Jessie Jones, or 5-year-old moved to Calvert during high school and son, Mason, to be in the room while he did graduated from Northern and has served in his video. Monk Wells with his son, Mason. Calvert’s volunteer fire departments for 14 “They would start the camera for me years. Last year he coached the Hunting- the community,” he said. betical order, so Monk didn’t know where town Hornets flag football team and he’s and then run out of the room,” Wells said. In his qualifying video, Wells spoke he fell at the end of the voting period. He He waited until the final days of the considering coaching T-ball this year. about how he was a firefighter and had al- hoped since he held the top spot for all but “As a captain at work, I try to lead by contest to submit his video and he tried to ways put everyone’s health and safety above one day, that he was still number one at the keep it “private” on Facebook because he example. I don’t ask them to do what I’m not his own. He asked those who watched the end. willing to do. I’ve played sports all my life. I didn’t want his family and friends to see it. video to “help a firefighter save himself.” “January 15 through the 30 was a wait- However, he received a call from the contest realized I needed to stop hiding.” A similar message spread through dig- ing game,” he said. He said that the scale was the enemy saying he’d have to open his video up for ital communities. “Firefighter needs help.” The day the winners were announced everyone to see. for a long time. He didn’t want to know the The results of the voting were posted was difficult. One of the girls had “put her- truth. He’s battled with his weight all his life. “I got two comments right away,” daily and Wells took over the top spot for self out there” by being in the media. She Wells chuckled. Six years ago he got down to 230 pounds, the rest of the voting portion of the contest. was on a morning news show and was told which is still considered overweight for a He was surprised by how the commu- “My goal was to be number one. In my that she was one of the 10 winners. Wells nity embraced him. He started receiving male 6’3”. He wants to be a good role model mind being number one meant they (judg- said it was afternoon and he still hadn’t re- for his son. positive comments on his Facebook page es) had to pick me as one of the 10 winners.” ceived a call, so he was trying not to lose telling him how he had become a role mod- Before he even leaves for the resort When the contest posted the top 30 hope. He was on the way to the county he’s already trying to “pay it forward.” He el to others who were struggling with their vote recipients, they listed them in alpha- dump at 2 p.m. when he got the call that he weight. started his own support group using Body was also a winner. by Vi. He has 25 people who have their own “It’s been great. Finally I Out of respect for his can give back. It’s nice to talk Facebook group and they have “challenge new friends he met as a re- parties” once a month. He’s working with to others,” Wells said. sult of the contest, he didn’t The online voting started the local community center to have a space announce his selection to the to meet once a month with others. Jan. 1, 2012 and ended on Jan. public. By 4 p.m. “My phone 15. About halfway through the He feels that he’s starting a new chap- was blowing up,” Wells said. ter in his life. He wants the happy ending voting period the resort started The official announcement posting the voting results. The that includes bringing back to the commu- was made and he was listed nity that supported him what he learned first set of results came back as number one. and Wells was in second place. from the resort “to keep others supported He will be the first of ten and healthy.” Then both his local commu- winners who will spend four nity and digital community be- He said anyone wanting support and weeks at The Biggest Loser encouragement in their weight loss jour- gan spreading the word about Resort. He leaves March Wells’ participation in the ney can feel free to contact him through his 4 and returns sometime in website http://monkwells.bodybyvi.com. contest. April. The return day hasn’t “They could vote once ev- been finalized. [email protected] ery 24 hours. I’m overwhelmed “I feel more pressure. by the amount of support from 9 Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Calvert Gazette Newsmakers Private Treatment Center Survives on ‘Little Miracles’

By Corrin M. Howe bid. Porto incorporated herself and bid on Porto contributes the success of the patients up with NA and AA programs to Staff Writer the project. treatment to researched based and tested ap- help them stay with their new habits. The From 1992 to 2006, the program oper- proaches, continuing care and probation. As center also offers a bookstore with books Prince Frederick’s Carol M. Porto ated out of what is now the Calvert Deten- far as the continuing care, the center hooks for recovery. The probation piece is another Treatment Center is a short and long term tion Center which houses the work release form of accountability outside the treat- residential and outpatient program for adult inmates. ment program. The patients know that they men and women with alcohol and drug “It evolved to other drugs besides al- can be tested at the center or through their treatment problems. The program’s docu- cohol and other charges. Basically for those probation officer. mented success has drawn the attention of needing minimum security and custodial In 2006, the Calvert County Board Peter Jennings of ABC News and 10 other care,” said Porto. of Commissioners decided not to continue states wanting to set up similar centers, ac- During this period the jails were over- paying for the program. At that time Porto cording to Porto. crowded and those with addictions were had to make the transition to a private treat- Porto, a nationally recognized ex- serving unproductive time incarcerated and ment facility. It was a challenge, but the pert on substance abuse treatment, said still coming out addicted. center survived, according to Porto who she started off in Prince George’s County. Many studies from graduate students said, “It was a little miracle after miracle.” Judges in Calvert County sent many of up through the state found that Porto’s pro- In order to stay open, the center their DWI offenders to her for treatment. At grams had an 80 percent success rate. Peo- expanded its services to include short- one point, the Calvert government studied ple having gone through her treatment cen- term, long-term residential and outpatient Porto’s center, planning to open its own fa- ter did not have another arrest or any illegal programs. cility. Instead, they put the program out for involvement for five years after leaving. “We are really blessed to recruit high level staff with Master’s degrees. At this level of care you need a higher level of experience. We have a low turnover and cross trained our staff to work in other areas.” Porto also credits help from previous board members, community members, Carol Porto is a Master of Addictions Counselor with 24 years experience in implementing short and churches and volunteers. long term residential treatment. Everything Amish OAK TABLE SPECIAL

Located in the Prince Frederick Town Center, the building has 48 beds, is within walking distance of Main Street and has a weight room, recreation room for men and women, rooms for handicapped and a chapel.

CCCeeleelelbebrbarrataette! e! ! SSaSavavovoro!r r! ! FatFatFat Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Specials Specials Specials TuscanyTuscanyTuscany Wine Wine Wine Dinner Dinner Dinner FebFebFeb 17 17 -1719-19- 19and and and Feb Feb Feb 21 21 21 FebruaryFebruaryFebruary 23, 23, 23, 7 7PM 7 PM PM AA laA la Cartela Carte Carte and and and Pre Pre Pre-Fixe-Fixe-Fixe Menus Menus Menus 5-course5-course5-course tasting tasting tasting menu menu menu pairedpairedpaired with with with Italian Italian Italian wines wines wines 40” x 60” Draw Leaf Table w/Two 16” Leaves RReRseeesresveravrvatiatoitnoions:n s4:s 41: 40101-03--3939494-46--646404000 0 With 4 - 6 Nantucket Side Chairs MenusMenusMenus are are areavailable available available on on our on our ourwebsite website website WinterWinterWinter Promotions: Promotions: Promotions: Retro Retro Retro Italian Italian Italian Nights Nights Nights $8.50 $8.50 $8.50 Entrees Entrees Entrees Tues-Thurs Tues-Thurs Tues-Thurs •Prime•Prime•Prime Rib Rib Rib Sunday Sunday Sunday Dinner Dinner Dinner – –Slow –Slow Slow-Roasted-Roasted-Roasted and and and Herb-Marinated Herb-Marinated Herb-Marinated 301-932-4164 145561455614556 Solomons Solomons Solomons Island Island Island Road Road Road South South South•Solomons,•Solomons,•Solomons, MD MD MD www.EverythingAmish.net TurnTurn left left into into parking parking lot. lot. On On Back Back Creek Creek Harbor Harbor waterfront. waterfront. Turn left into parking lot. On Back Creek Harbor waterfront. Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.digiovannisrestaurant.com www.digiovannisrestaurant.comwww.digiovannisrestaurant.com 7700 Leonardtown Road•Hughesville, Maryland 20637 • 1/2 Mile Past Hughesville Bypass The Calvert Gazette Thursday, February 16, 2012 10

Darlene Bowen, 66, Billie Cox, 75 Henrietta Ellis, 85 She received her early education in Geary Schools and attended the University of Maryland at Darlene Mary Bowen, 66, Billie J. Cox, 75, of Hun- Henrietta “Aunt Henri” T. Ellis of Port Republic, College Park. Cora served in the United States Navy of Huntingtown, MD passed tingtown, MD passed away Feb. Maryland, died on Feb. 10, 2012, at the age of 85. from Sept. 30, 1957 until being discharged in May 5, away Feb. 9, 2012 at Calvert 7, 2012 at Calvert Memorial She was born on Sept. 7, 1926 in Rostraver 1961 and has lived in Maryland since. She was mar- Memorial Hospital in Prince Hospital. Township, Penn., to Louis and Wilma (McClintock) ried to James Nation in June of 1979 and they made Frederick, MD with her family She was born Jan. 8, 1937 Thompson. North Beach their home. She was a member of St. by her side. in Radford, VA to James Clinton She was born July 26, 1945, and Virginia (Radcliff) Myers. Henrietta loved being outdoors and was a big Paul’s Episcopal Parish in Prince Frederick. in Washington, D.C. to James She received her education baseball fan of the Baltimore Orioles. She loved to She was preceded in death by her parents, a Edward and Mary Frances in Radford and graduated from cook and bake for her family. son Parrish Ricci and brothers Ronnie and Benny (Mockabee) Jones, was raised Radford High School in 1953. She is the loving mother of Gary Ellis and his RedBuffalo. in Calvert County and attended Billie married E. Clinton Cox wife, Sally and the late Mark A. Ellis. She is the de- Surviving are her husband James Nation; Calvert High School. December 24, 1954 in Indian Valley, VA., and they voted grandmother of Gary “Clif” Ellis and his wife, children Donna Nicholson and her husband Jeff of She had known Lawrence S. Bowen since 1963 moved to Calvert County in 1955. Billie was a wedding Jeannie and sister of Dorothy Moraco and Mary Oblex. Gambrills. MD, Luke B. Nation of Washington, DC and they had been companions since 1980, and were planner for a while but was primarily a homemaker. In The family received friends at Lee Funeral Home, and Jacqueline R. Platt and her husband David of married January 26, 1991. In her leisure time Darlene her leisure time she enjoyed gardening, traveling and Calvert in Owings on Feb. 15, where Funeral Services Pittsburg, PA; grandchildren Jennifer and Christine enjoyed crafts, and found her greatest pride and joy in camping. Her passions were her children, grandchil- will be held on Thursday, Feb. 16 at 10 am. Interment her family. dren and her numerous pets. Billie was a charter mem- will follow at Chesapeake Highlands Memorial Gar- Nicholson of Gambrills, MD and John, Claudia, Darlene was preceded in death by her parents ber of Huntingtown VFD Ladies Auxiliary and a for- dens, Port Republic, MD. Theodore and Julia Platt of Pittsburg, PA and sisters and by a son Kevin Bowen, formerly of Pennington mer member of the Huntingtown Homemakers Club. Memorial contributions in Ms. Ellis’ memory Maxine Condulle and her husband Claude of Okla- Gap, VA. Billie was preceded in death by her parents and a homa City, OK, Betty White of Arapaho, OK and She is survived by her husband Lawrence S. brother Jack Myers. may be made to the: Solomons Nursing Center, Attn: Bowen, sisters Dorothy Ramsey (late husband Milton Surviving are her husband Clinton Cox, Sr. of Activities Department, P O Box 1509, Solomons, MD Mona Montassam of Albuquerque, NM. “Buck” Ramsey, Jr.) and Denise Mardock (Marvin) Huntingtown; six children, Clinton Cox, Jr. and his 20688. Friends were received on Feb. 13, at Rausch of Austin, TX; a brother Johnny Buscher (Della) of wife Millie of Huntingtown, Patricia White and her Funeral Home, Owings, MD. Funeral service and Berkeley Springs, WV; daughters Tammy Comber husband Steve of Dayton, MD, Sandy Sams and her a celebration of Cora’s life was held Feb. 14, 2012 and husband Darrold of Glen Burnie, MD and Terry husband Joey of Prince Frederick, Karen Dickersheid Salvatore Genovese, 77 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Parish, 231 Church Street, McKeaver and husband Gerald of Huntingtown; son and her husband Bob of Lititz, PA, Terry Cox and Prince Frederick, MD. Ronald Bowen and wife Trina of Kingsport, TN; his wife Susan of Prince Frederick and Dawn Cox of Salvatore “Sam” John Interment will be in Geary Cemetery, Geary, grandchildren Thomas (Boots) Rickett Jr. and wife Dunkirk; 11 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; Genovese, 77, of Lothian passed Oklahoma. Lori of St. Leonard, MD, Roy Rickett of Hunting- three sisters, Melba Jenkins of Leonardtown, Margaret away on Feb. 11, 2012 at his town, Greg Rickett of Prince Frederick, and Kristina Poston and her husband Harry of Richmond, VA and Memorials contributions may be made to St. home. (Nina) McKeaver of Huntingtown; a niece Debbie Sue Wood and her husband Billy Joe of Leonardtown; Labre Indian School, P.O. Box 216, Ashland, Mon- Sutton and husband Joe of Huntingtown and nephews and a brother Wayne Myers and his wife Tammy of He was born September tana 59004. Jim Ramsey of Prince Frederick and Milton (Bucky) Mechanicsville. 14, 1934 in Baltimore, MD to Ramsey, III and wife Nancy of Prince Frederick. Friends were received on Feb. 10, 2012, at Rausch Joseph and Anna Frances (Bor- Friends and family were received on Feb. 15 at Funeral Home, P.A., 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane, Owings, dine) Genovese. Rausch Funeral Home, P.A., 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane, MD where services and a celebration of Billie’s life was He was raised in Baltimore Barbara Zanelotti, 71 Owings, MD, where a memorial service and celebra- held Saturday February 11, 2012. Interment followed at and attended Baltimore Pub- tion of Darlene’s life followed. Interment Southern Southern Memorial Gardens, Dunkirk, MD. lic Schools. Sam married Faye Marie Kronawetter Barbara Ann Zanelotti, 71, of Prince Frederick, Memorial Gardens in Dunkirk will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to Lilly in Baltimore September 24, 1952 and they resided MD formerly of District Heights, MD passed away Expressions of sympathy in Darlene’s name may Pond Foal Rescue, 3655 Ferry Landing Road, Dunkirk, in Glen Burnie, moving to Huntingtown in the early on Feb. 9, 2012 in St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonard- be made to Calvert Hospice at www.calverthospice.org. MD 20754. 1980’s, then Lusby. Fay passed away July 26, 2002. town, MD. He has resided in Lothian for the past several years. She was born on May 26, 1940 in Washing- Sam married Evelyn Marie Saunders on Dec. 23, 2003 ton, DC to the late Jerome L. and Margaret Maud and they separated in 2011. Sam was employed as Zanelotti. carpenter with Bay Mills Construction Company. In Barbara attended Suitland High School and his leisure Sam enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a moved from Prince George’s Co. in 1977 to Calvert member of All Season Rod & Gun Club. Co. where she was a homemaker. She loved reading, Surviving are his daughters Denise M. Weber, working puzzles, and playing bingo. Debra (Debbie) A. Connell both of Lothian and San- Barbara is survived by her children, Cathy dra D. Baunler of Macon, GA; three grandchildren; six Keyes of Florida, David Jimney and wife Lori of great grandchildren and a sister Clara Jones of Rose- Lusby, MD, and Carl Jimney of Upper Marlboro, dale, MD. MD; siblings, Jerry Zanelotti and wife Nancy of Friends were received on Feb. 14, at Rausch White Plains, MD, Dee Hoofnagle and husband Funeral Home, P.A., 8325 Mt. harmony Lane, Ow- Kenny of Lusby, MD, Gerald and Paul Kala of ings, MD where services followed. Interment will be private. Greenbackville, VA, and Lucy Walsh and husband John of Berlin, MD; seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Cora Nation, 73 The family will receive friends on Friday, Feb. 17, 2012 from 10:30 – 11 AM in Our Lady Star of the Cora Lee Nation, 73, of Sea Catholic Church, Solomons, MD where a Me- North Beach, MD passed away morial Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at on Feb. 9, 2012 at her home. She 11 AM. Interment will be private. was born May 8, 1938 in Geary, Arrangements provided by Rausch Funeral Oklahoma to Ben and Vida (Ro- Home, P.A., Lusby, MD. man Nose) RedBuffalo.

Where Life and Heritage are Celebrated

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 Lusby 8325 Mt. Harmony Lane 4405 Broomes Island Rd. 20 American Lane 410-257-6181 410-586-0520 410-326-9400 11 Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Calvert Gazette Spotlight On Superintendent Says Another Million Needed for Schools Baysox Mascot Visits OLSS By Sarah Miller Staff Writer By Corrin M. Howe Staff Writer Superintendent Jack Smith is calling for Calvert County to increase school funding by at least $1 million next year. Bowie Baysox Mascot Smith gave a presentation to the board of education last week, Louie skipped into the meeting explaining the need to hire and retain staff, in addition to the funding needed for a support person for a new system throughout the schools room of Our Lady Star of the Sea that “talks” to other systems and self-regulates to a degree. and planted a kiss on the top of a “The fact is, school funding is very perilous right now,” Smith teacher’s head before heading up said. to the stage to re-enact his poem He said he will be officially presenting a proposed school bud- about why he chose baseball. get within a couple weeks to allow both the Board of Education and The event was to kick-off the Board of County Commissioners the opportunity to comment OLSS “Read and Hit A Home- on it. He said between the draft budget being presented and the final run” reading challenge which budget being adopted, it will change “a lot.” nets students a free ticket to a The district also hired a new Registered Nurse last year, and Baysox’s baseball game on coun- funds are needed to keep her on staff. There is also a need for more ty reading night later in the year. special education teachers, Smith said. Dressed in an orange base- State funding is formula-driven by state wealth and student ball uniform shirt, the Commu- population. With state wealth holding steady, if not rising, and the nity Program Manager Kate Mil- Calvert student population decreasing “it will fall on county govern- stead greeted preschool through ment,” to help the district, Smith said. Also during the meeting, district spokeswoman Gail Bennett eighth grade students as they briefed the board on upcoming legislation to keep an eye on. filed into the room. One proposed bill, House Bill 370, would require a child’s Body “He has big shoes!” one pre- Mass Index to be measured, along with currently required immu- schooler said. nizations, before entering school. There is also potential legislation Milstead asked how big he that could open high school athletic programs to teens in parochial thought the shoes were and re- schools or those that are home schooled. Other legislation proposes ceived the response, “Size 145.” to increase school bus length of operation from 12 to 15 years. The adults in the room laughed Photos By Corrin M. Howe The next Board of Education meeting will be Feb. 23. For more as she promised to go back to the Louie greets all the OLSS students after performing his skit on why he chose information, visit www.calvertnet.k12.md.us. office and check. The unsolic- baseball as his favorite sport. ited comment from the little one [email protected] ironically predicted one of the Teachers With 20-Plus Years Honored By Sarah Miller Staff Writer

The Calvert County Board of Education honored teachers with 20 years of service or more under their belts during the 37th Annual Service Awards on Feb. 9. The honorees reached 20, 30 and even 40 years of service with Calvert County Public Schools. The 40-year honorees were Andrea “Chris’ Banks, Larry Barker, Sha- ron Godfrey and Iris Harris. Barker spent 19 years in the classroom, and spent the rest of his tenure in administrative positions. He said his most rewarding years reasons why Louie didn’t chose rect answer was 4 million books. were spent working with students soccer as his favorite sport. This year 10 counties in the classroom because as a vice Photo by Sarah Miller 40-year employees Iris Harris, Sharon Godfrey, Larry Barker and Andrea Milstead read a poem, throughout Maryland and the principal or a principal he sees a lot whose authorship she credited District of Columbia have 225 of discipline cases and “undesir- “Chris” Banks celebrate their time with Calvert County Public Schools. to Louie, about all the differ- schools participating in the read- able” types of students. ing incentive program. Maureen Cassidy, a 20-year county, hand held calculators became available ent sports Louie tried. “His feet veteran with the school district, said the best part and “Title Nine” decreed that schools could not were too big and the ball would Louie tells all the schools he about teaching is seeing the kids change and learn, discriminate based on gender. Thirty years ago, roll past,” she said about soccer is willing to come kick-off their and said the evolution during high school, from there were two grocery stores in the county and as Louie demonstrated. reading program, but Maryland freshman to senior, is “amazing.” books with offensive or inappropriate material After the skit, Milstead told state assessments prevents many “I’ve done everything,” she said. “I’ve taught could not be found in the library. Twenty-five years the students that if they read four of the schools from accepting his elementary, middle and high school and I love ago, Patuxent High School opened and 20 years books, they would receive a free offer. them all.” ago, there was no e-mail, no No Child Left Behind ticket to the game. She informed The OLSS students were In keeping of this year’s theme of “time”, each and Patuxent Elementary and Plum Point Middle them Louie started this program also treated to seeing their new honoree received a clock in thanks for their years School just opened. over 16 years ago because he mascot, Solomon, a seahawk. He of service. Crunkleton and other officials in attendance loves reading and thinks it is very came out to greet Louie and have Board of Education President Rose Crunkle- congratulated the honorees for integrating a num- important. a few hip checks before the larger ton detailed the parallel evolution of Calvert Coun- ber of game-changing initiatives from the national Then she asked the students than life critters spent time shak- ty and the school district. and state level while lasting as long as they have. how many books they thought ing hands and giving hugs. Forty years ago, she said, Northern High were read in the first 15 years. School opened as the second high school in the [email protected] She received guess from three to [email protected] 300 million. In the end the cor- The Calvert Gazette Thursday, February 16, 2012 12

er CLUES ACROSS 56. Leisurely stroll 13. ___ Ling mountain range 1. Undergarments for women 57. Austr. Army History Unit 21. __ Clapton, musician n 5. Periods of time 58. Bowfin genus 22. Mild yellow Dutch cheese Kiddie 9. Dramatist Henrik 59. S.A. mountain chain 27. Peruvian province Kor 14. Any thick messy substance 60. ____ Scott Case 1857 28. Diagonal cut of cloth 15. Examination 61. Mound 29. A narrow path or road 16. Japanese city 62. Springfield, IL candy 30. Fraternal Order of ____ 17. Daze with a blow founder Martin 31. The boundary of a surface 18. With fireplace residue 63. Frambesia 32. Granular old snow 19. Synthetic acrylic fabric 64. Reduced price event 33. Rt. angle cleaving tool fiber 34. Irreducible material 20. Pittsburgh University 39. Oldest man-made rayon 23. Scorched fiber 24. Potato state (abbr.) CLUES DOWN 40. Affirmative! (slang) 25. Anger 1. Pear variety 41. Burial cloths 26. Suitable for use as food 2. The Sator-_____ Square 42. Surface layer of grass & 31. To wipe out, obliterate 3. Light purplish-blue roots 35. Used of unskilled work, 4. Plants of the genus Cassia 44. Not shaky esp. domestic 5. Shelf unit for ornaments 45. Kidney-shaped nut 36. Loose earth, soil 6. Live in 48. Nursemaids in India 37. Petrol container 7. Arthur ___, Wimbledon 49. Alkali bee genus 38. Great (60’s slang) champion 50. Warble 41. Conditions of balance 8. A thwarting and distress- 51. A citizen of Denmark 43. Foes ing obstruction 52. Approves food 45. Sec. of Energy Steven 9. Cut off from others 53. Golf ball supports 46. 6th day (abbr.) 10. Tree trunk outgrowth 54. Pearl Harbor actress Rue 47. Without qualification or 11. Tower used for storing 55. Coarse curly-leafed greens exception silage 56. Cancer detecting smear 51. Sarah’s title 12. Br. public boys school Last Week’s Puzzle Solutions 13 Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Calvert Gazette TTER Guest Editorial E to the S L Editor No to Gas Tax By Marta Hummel the laundry list of proposals that some as these new taxes will be, the lowest-income brackets would includes imposing a sales tax on they are just a taste of what is to pay a share of their incomes more Mossburg gasoline, adding a sales tax for come. They will not fix the struc- than seven times greater than online purchases, at least dou- tural deficit and will hinder the the share paid by the wealthier funding when highways facilitate Avoiding a tax increase bling the "flush tax" and halving state's recovery at a critical time, households. As a result, the low- 96 percent of the passenger move- this year from Annapolis will the personal exemption for some ensuring that more taxes will be er-income households likely will ment and all of the freight move- be like trying to stay dry while filers and eliminating it for oth- needed to cover the state's ever- choose to decrease their driving to ment represents a misallocation of swimming. ers, are meant to shock and awe growing budget. a much greater extent than would public funding," as Cox and Utt Gov. Martin O'Malley has so that when only some proposals And contrary to O'Malley's higher-income households, an out- write. bombarded Marylanders with so pass, it will seem like a victory for claim in his State of the State come that has important implica- Higher prices will also push many tax and fee hikes at least a taxpayers. address, they do not offer a "bal- tions for job access at a time when the tens of thousands of commut- few are bound to pass this legis- As burden- c anced approach" to fixing the bud- gas prices are also very high." ers who travel to D.C. and Vir- lative session. No doubt get. Take the proposed hike in the The gas tax also promises to ginia each day from Maryland to orner gas tax, for example, the worst of grow government without mitigat- buy gas out of state, hurting state the bunch. O'Malley's proposal ing the state's transportation fund- gas stations, particularly those would phase in a 6 percent sales ing problems, because the new near the border, and reducing the tax on gasoline over three years money could be transferred to the estimated amount that can be col- on top of a combined federal and general fund just as it lected by the ommissioners state tax of 41.9 cents per gallon has been historically to treasury. that already exists. cover the expenses of For all these It will hurt the state's poor- any number of unrelat- reasons, the gas c tax should be State Shell Game est residents much harder than ed programs. Neither wealthier Marylanders. will raising the gas tax tabled. I'll tackle Created Pension Problem As Wendell Cox and Ron- ease road congestion in the other taxes in ald Utt write in a new report one of the worst states another column. By Susan Shaw (http://www.mdpolicy.org/ for clogged highways, Marta Calvert County Commissioner, 2nd District docLib/20120201_Rethinking- because more than Hummel Moss- MDProposedGasTax.pdf) for the half of the state's trans- burg is a se- Why should you care if Maryland Public Policy Institute, portation dollars go to nior fellow at the State of Maryland pushes (where I am a senior fellow) "Spe- transit. This makes no the Maryland the Teachers’ Pensions down cifically, this report estimates that sense. Public Policy to the Counties? What difference after the proposed tax increase, --"Such 'even' Institute. does it make? It’s all tax money, right? Here’s why you should care. County budgets are a zero sum Movie With a Message game. In other words, there is a fi- nite amount of revenue. If we take Bring the family and invite your friends to Trinity’s free movie night on Saturday, Feb. 25. This that tax revenue and give more to month’s Movie with a Message features the latest film from the creators of Fireproof - Courageous. one area, we have to give less to an- Four men, one calling: To serve and protect. As law enforcement officers, they are confident and other area. So, if we have to spend focused, standing up to the worst the streets can offer. Yet at the end of the day, they face a challenge millions of dollars on Teachers’ they’re ill prepared to tackle: fatherhood. When tragedy strikes home, these men are left wrestling with Pensions that have always been a their hopes, their fears, their faith, and their fathering. Protecting the streets is second nature to these law state responsibility, accounted for enforcement officers. Raising their children in a God-honoring way? That takes courage. in the state’s budget, we will have Come see this free screening of this powerful film at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 25 on the big screens in the less money to spend on all other sanctuary. Discussion and refreshments to follow. Free childcare is also available. Rated PG. Trinity is funding priorities like public safe- located at 90 Church Street in Prince Frederick. For more information, call 410-535-1782 or visit www. ty, educational operating expenses, trinityumchurch.org. parks and recreation, road paving, museums, and EVERYTHING else. You can also join Trinity United Methodist Church for fellowship and pancakes at the annual Pan- Since many of these budgetary areas are comprised mostly of personnel, cake Supper this Tuesday, Feb. 21 from 5-7 pm in the fellowship hall. jobs will have to be eliminated. Public safety is comprised of deputies, The menu features blueberry and regular pancakes, sausage, bacon, cheesy-egg casserole, coffee, 911 operators, animal control officers, and others. Most of the Board tea, juice & water. Hosted by Trinity's youth, all proceeds benefit their summer mission trips. of Education operating budget goes toward personnel costs, especially teachers. Tax revenue is comprised mostly of property tax revenue and in- Publisher Thomas McKay come tax revenue. Property tax assessments have decreased 16% in the Associate Publisher Eric McKay first election district. Income taxes are rising slightly as more residents Editor Sean Rice find jobs. The only way to pay for Teachers’ Pensions on a County level with- Graphic Artist Angie Stalcup out cutting personnel and services drastically is to raise taxes signifi- Office Manager Tobie Pulliam cantly. Can you afford that? Advertising [email protected] Many of our residents cannot. Email [email protected] Additionally, this whole concept of passing responsibilities to a Phone 301-373-4125 lower level of government is WRONG. It is a huge unfunded mandate. The state’s reason for proposing this abdication of responsibility is that Staff Writers Guy Leonard Law Enforcement the Teachers’ Pensions are unsustainable. Guess who promulgated the Sarah Miller Government, Education rules that made them unsustainable? Yes, the state legislature—in 2006. Corrin Howe Community, Business Last year, the Governor claimed he was fixing the unsustainability, but raised the teachers’ contributions by 2%, lowered the level of benefits Contributing Writers to 45% of pay (plus social security) and then directed the 2% increased Joyce Baki teacher contribution to the state General Fund to help balance last year’s Keith McGuire structural deficit. However, rising at 7.5% per year compounded, the Susan Shaw Calvert Gazette costs will double in a few years. Sherrod Sturrock P. O. Box 250 . Hollywood, MD 20636 Please let all your state legislators know that you want to keep the quality of life in Calvert County that we have so carefully attained with- The Calvert Gazette is a weekly newspaper providing news and information for the residents of Cal- out raising the property tax rate since 1987. Tell them to stop balancing vert County. The Calvert Gazette will be available on newsstands every Thursday. The paper is the state budget on the backs of County budgets. Tell them that you can published by Southern Maryland Publishing Company, which is responsible for the form, content, not afford higher local taxes. The bills are HB 087 and SB 152 called and policies of the newspaper. The Calvert Gazette does not espouse any political belief or endorse the Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act of 2012. Hearings will be any product or service in its news coverage. Articles and letters submitted for publication must be scheduled soon. You can go to www.mlis.state.md.us/2012rs/billfile to signed and may be edited for length or content. The Calvert Gazette is not responsible for any claims look up the bills and see when the hearings will be. Your help is needed made by its advertisers. NOW! The Calvert Gazette Thursday, February 16, 2012 14

The Calvert Gazette is always looking for more local talent to feature! To submit art or band information for our entertainment section, e-mail [email protected].

Top Line Comedians Coming to Calvert

By Sarah Miller Stand-Up Showdown” and has appeared on “The Tonight Staff Writer Show with Jay Leno.” Maurer currently lives in Washington, D.C., accord- Last comic standing veterans Tammy Pescatelli and ing to the biography on his website. His “sharp wit and af- Jeff Maurer will be coming to Calvert County for a one- fable demeanor, as well as his quick insights and friendly night stand during the fourth annual Comedy Invasion for personality, plus his affable insights, quick personality, Project Gradation this Saturday. sharp friendly, and other variations thereof, are sure to be The Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse a hit.” (CAASA) works with D.C. Improv Talent Management The Comedy Invasion is one of the two yearly fund- Agency to book the comedians for the evening. CAASA raisers for Project Graduation, the first being a Night Golf Coordinator Candice D’Agostino said the agency sends Tournament at Chesapeake Hills Golf Course. The next them approximately 10 videos of various comedians, and tournament, benefiting Project Graduation 2013, will be CAASA ranks the performers by preference. D’Agostino held May 18. said some of the comedians are based on the west coast, Project Graduation is a drug and alcohol free night- which makes it logistically difficult to go see the acts in long party for seniors on graduation night. Each high person. school has a Project D’Agostino said they Graduation coordina- look for acts that are clean tor to work with the and family friendly, in keep- venues and get ev- ing the tradition of the Com- erything set for the edy Invasion. students to have a Pescatelli will be head- place to be bussed to lining the evening, with after their graduation Maurer as the opening act. ceremony. According to her web- Locations for site, Pescatelli “is the kind of Project Graduation Tammy Pescatelli woman you wish was your have included Dave sister or your best friend.” & Busters at Arun- for students between the ages of 13 and 18 and $25 for all She grew up in Cleveland, del Mills Mall, the others. D’Agostino said seating is limited to 850 seats, and Ohio, and was one of the Navy Drill Hall at the program has sold out for the last couple years, and she final five on NBC’s “Last NAS Patuxent River anticipates doing the same again this year. Tickets not sold Comic Standing 2.” She and the recreation before the show will be sold at the door, D’Agostino said. also stars in “A Stand Up center at St. Mary’s Comedy Invasion is held in the Huntingtown High Mother” since Jan. 2011 on College. Local law School Auditorium at 4125 North Solomons Island Road WEtv, which “documented enforcement officers in Huntingtown. her life as she balanced her volunteer their time For more information about the performers, visit family and her growing ca- to chaperone Project www.pescatelli.com or www.jeffcomedy.com. For more reer with a lot of laughs.” Graduation nights. information on ticket sales call 410-535-3733. She was also the winner Tickets for Com- of Comedy Centrals “2010 edy Invasion are $15 [email protected] Jeff Maurer

Show Rating: PG13 Thirsty Thursday EVERY Thursday in the Bar from 3-7pm!!Comedy Invasion $2 OFF $2 OFF $3 OFF Ruddy Duck domestic Jumbo for Project Graduation Award Winning bottles, wings & Saturday, February 18, 2012 Craft Brewed rail cocktails, legendary Beers!! and house wines. Chip nachos! Huntingtown High School Auditorium 4125 North Solomons Island Rd., This Thursday, 2/16: Put on your cowboy hat Huntingtown, MD and line dance your way to the Duck for upbeat Doors open at 7:00 p.m. - country music with RENEGADE COUNTRY!! Show begins at 8:00 p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person for Next Thursday, 2/23: JukeBox Theives LIVE at the advance sales only and $30 at the door. Duck! No Cover Charge! Show starts at 7:30 p.m. $15 in advance for students ages 13-18. Jeff Seating is limited. Tammy SOLOMONS, MARYLAND • Dowell Rd and Route 4 Maurer For more Info, Call 410-535-3733 Pescatelli Tickets can be purchased at Educate and Celebrate (Prince Frederick), Floral Expressions (Owings), 410-FYI-DUCK • www.RuddyDuckBrewery.com CAASA Office in Prince Frederick, and Lotus Kitchen in Solomons Island 15 Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Calvert Gazette Sp rts dozens of little ones that we released at boat- their bite is feeble. They won’t slam a baited side, we caught our 3-person limit of 30 big hook and head for the next county. Instead, it fat pre-spawn yellow perch in just under 4 is a subtle nibble as they take a minnow and Big Fat Perch hours. The minimum size allowed by law suck on it before moving on. They’re only is 9 inches. We set our own minimum at 10 slightly more aggressive for small unbaited inches and had some that pushed the tape at jigs and spoons. Once you set the hook they 13 ½ inches. What a day! are serious fighters for their size and some- By Keith McGuire The Ordinary This type of fishing is not for the meek, times manage to throw the hook before you Contributing Writer indoor types, or the people whose idea of can get them into the boat. fishing is sitting in the sun on a sandy beach Last year was a good fishing year for At this time last year, Angler with a surf rod in hand on a hot summer’s me, despite the disappointing start. By my small group of three day. No. This fishing is done in long johns all measures [so far], this year should be anglers was striking out at and foul weather gear, with ear muffs and awesome! every turn. We fished the neoprene gloves. Even so, the tug of a fish deep holes for pre-spawn on the business end of a rigged fishing line [email protected]. yellow perch and caught is quite warming; enough to keep at it for a Keith has been a recreational angler one or two little neds, a cat- while! on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries fish, and a white perch or Yellow Perch are active in the cold wa- for over 50 years; he fishes weekly from his two. Other obviously more ter. Where conditions are more brutal than small boat during the season, and spends proficient yellow perchers they are locally, they can be caught through his free time supporting local conservation caught the target fish leav- the ice with considerable regularity. Still, organizations. ing us with little to do but admire their catch. After and expensive when you consider that we a couple of weeks and several more half- can catch our own at most times of the year. hearted local attempts, we headed to North Our first yellow perch excursion this East, Maryland. It was a long ride, but it was year was last Friday, just two days earlier purported to be the Mecca for yellow perch. than our first venture last year. The result According to reports, the bite was “On like was considerably different. donkey kong!” We caught 22 yellow perch. We managed to obtain about 3 dozen But, while we were fishing in North East on minnows, which was not enough for the bite February 27th, the spawning run started in that we encountered. Fortunately, the yellow Allen’s Fresh Run and was over before we perch will also hit small jig heads with twist- could back to it. er tails, shad darts, and other small jigs and Our most difficult part of these ven- spoons. (When the bite is on, they’re easy to tures (apart from timing the bite and the catch and they’ll bite a variety of offerings!) cold weather) is procuring minnows for bait. We fished the northern (Prince George’s Some of the local tackle shops up the road County) area of the Patuxent River, targeting have minnows, but they are all very small depths of 30 feet or more. Not counting the

30 pre-spawn yellow perch caught by Richard Everson, left, Keith McGuire and Scott McGuire. Your Online Community For Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties www.somd.com Over 250,000 Southern Marylanders can’t be wrong! The Calvert Gazette Thursday, February 16, 2012 16 Is your old HVAC system for the birds? Receive between $100–$500 in rebates on HVAC equipment and services.

As much as half of your winter energy goes to heating your home. SMECO has rebates available for: • New HVAC Equipment • HVAC Diagnostic Tune-up • HVAC Duct Sealing

1-877-818-4094 smeco.coop/save

This program supports the EmPOWER Maryland Energy Efficiency Act.