winter 2009/ Spring 2010

A Publication for the Community of Historic Leonardtown ~ Est. 1660

Calendar of Events At Home in Leonardtown featuring . . . MARCH 27 Disability Awareness Day St. Aloysius Church Governmental Center APRIL 3 Celebrates 300 Years of Catholic Faith Easter Festival Research suggests that Leonardtown’s St. Aloysius parish was founded around the year Governmental Center 1710 as a mission or small chapel by the Jesuits to meet the needs of the growing Catholic APRIL 17 population in what was then known as “Seymour Town”. In 1728, the town was renamed Run & Fun Walk for Hospice “Leonardtown” after Governor Leonard Calvert. Through the years, three church structures Governmental Center have housed this faithful parish. APRIL 18 St. Aloysius is one Earth Day of the earliest Catholic Leonardtown Square parishes in St. Mary’s APRIL 25 County. The first church Spring Fling Classic Car Show structure was built in Leonardtown Square 1766 off Cemetery Road, which is located APRIL 29-MAY 2 approximately two miles So. Md. Spring Festival north of the current SMC Fairgrounds church on Washington Street. Built practically in MAY 1 the center of its cemetery March of Dimes Walk grounds, this church was During its Tri-centennial Celebration, 300th Anniversary Banners Leonardtown Square a wood frame edifice adorned today’s St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Leonardtown. that accommodated MAY 16 parishioners for many years. While the original church no longer stands, this old cemetery Leonardtown Criterium with tombstones bearing long-standing county names, remains open for burials and visiting Leonardtown Square today. An up close look at th TH In 1846, a second St. Aloysius Church was erected on Washington Street, just north of the the 300 Anniversary 4 SATURDAY, MAY-AUGUST Banner highlighting Downtown Tunes Town Square. During the early 1860’s, the church was enlarged to include a sacristy, belfry the second St. Aloysius Leonardtown Square and graceful spire. Following relocation of the Jesuit residence at Newtown to Leonardtown Church. in 1866, St. Aloysius parish became the center of Catholic life in the upper part of St. Mary’s JUNE 13 County. In response to the escalating Catholic presence in Leonardtown, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, Kentucky SMC Crab Festival opened St. Mary’s Academy, a girls boarding and day school in 1885, the Xaverian Brothers opened Leonard Hall, SMC Fairgrounds a school for boys in 1909, and the educational institution of Father Andrew White Elementary School was added by JUNE 14 the parish in 1954. In 1910, the parish opened St. Aloysius Flag Day Celebration Gonzaga Cemetery, its second burial ground, on Fenwick Governmental Center Street in Leonardtown. JULY 10 & JULY 17 As the parish continued to flourish, the second church River Concert Series structure necessitated renovations and improvements that on the Town Square included raising and installing a new roof over the old roof, Leonardtown Square a new ceiling, side doors and new stairways to the choir loft. In the early 1950’s, a broken ceiling beam required AUGUST 7 repairs and additional structural supports. When another Beach Party on the Square beam broke in 1959, the church was declared unsafe, and Leonardtown Square construction of a new church building got underway. During AUGUST 12-14 the three-year construction phase, all parish Masses were Li’l Margaret’s Bluegrass Festival held at Father Andrew White School. St. Aloysius Church at the original church site on Goddard Farm Continued on page 7 Cemetery Road. Disability Awareness Day Come On Out! Learn what St. Mary’s County agencies and providers can do for you and your loved ones. Annual So. Md. Spring Festival Mayor’s Participate in awareness activities - the first 300 will Enjoy entertainment, music, crafts, carnival Message receive a free kite! There is even more for people rides, a parade, car show, and more during the annual of all abilities to enjoy. This event is held at the So. Md. Spring Festival! The festival will be held th nd Leonard Hall Recreation Center on Saturday, March Thursday, April 29 - Sunday, May 2 at the SMC 27th, 1 PM - 4 PM. Sponsored by the Commission for Fairgrounds. Sponsored by Holy Face Church. On December 4, 2009 several People with Disabilities. 301-475-4200, ext. 1800. Admission. Call 301-994-0525 for details.

Leonardtown businesses enjoyed a visit The Leonardtown Criterium Bicycle Races from Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot. Annual Easter Festival The 13th running of the Comptroller Franchot was touring various Enjoy Easter egg hunts, egg decorating towns around Maryland promoting his Leonardtown Criterium contests, pony rides, crafts, face painting, prizes, and bicycle races return to the “Shop Local” campaign. This campaign the Easter Bunny at Miedzinski Park on Saturday, Leonardtown Square on rd was timed to coincide with the Christmas April 3 beginning at 10 AM. $1 hunt fee. All ages. Sunday, May 16th, 8 AM-5 shopping season but I believe it is a message 301-475-4200, ext. 1800. Rain or shine. PM. Of historic note, worth spreading all year round. As we are th the first bicycle arrived all painfully aware, the economic times are 15 Annual Run & Fun Walk for Hospice in Leonardtown via steamship at the Leonardtown trying at best. Many local businesses are Wharf in 1879, some 131 years ago. Now, in 2010 struggling to keep their doors open for just This annual 10-K Run and this exciting Criterium boasts “The Bikes are Back one more month. Right here in Leonardtown 5-K Run/Walk highlights Southern in Leonardtown!” Bring the whole family to watch we have our share of vacant storefronts. Maryland’s largest running event, beginning at th skilled cyclists from all over the mid-Atlantic region Buying local is one thing that each and 9 AM on Saturday, April 17 at the Governmental race through the streets of Leonardtown at over 30 every one of us can do all year round to Center. Children, strollers, and pets are welcome. miles per hour. Kids can bring their bike or trike support our locally owned and operated Pre-register on-line at http://www.runforhospice. and enjoy participating in the kids’ races for prizes org/ or register on race day beginning at 7:30 AM. businesses. Internet shopping has become – helmets are required. Go to www.paxvelo.com for Your participation/donation helps Hospice to provide more and more popular and is certainly details. in-home care, comfort and support to terminally ill convenient; however for every dollar spent patients and their families in St. Mary’s County. Annual SMC Crab Festival at a locally owned store, seventy cents stays 301-475-3610. Come on out for hot and tasty steamed local. For every dollar spent locally at a chain store, thirty cents stays local. Not one Earth Day Celebration crabs, seafood and non-seafood items, live music, entertainment, classic cars, crafts, cent stays in our community when making a Celebrate Earth Day in the Town th and more at the St. Mary’s County Crab purchase online. Let’s all try a little harder Square on Sunday, April 18 , 12:30 PM Festival on Sunday, June 13th from 11 AM-5 to do our part to support our local businesses - 4:30 PM. Enjoy live music, entertainment, puppet PM at the SMC Fairgrounds. Admission and help our neighbors. Buying local can show, seated massage, face painting, children’s is $5 p/person over 12 years of age. (Cost be a retail purchase, eating at one of our crafts, animal rescue organizations, free kayak and of food is separate from admission.) The fine restaurants or supporting a local service canoe rides at Leonardtown Wharf and more! Learn annual SMC Crab Festival is sponsored by provider. We have come through hard times about organic gardening, pesticide-free produce, the Leonardtown Lions Club. Volunteers before and will prevail this time as well. recycling, conservation and other environmental are needed. Visit http://www.stmaryscrabfestival. tips to help save our planet. Sponsored by the com/ for more information. Leonardtown Business Association. For more information call 301-475-9791. Flag Day Celebration

Bring the family to celebrate our Nation’s Flag J. Harry Norris, III, Mayor Spring Fling XXIV Classic Car Show with music, a parade, flag-raising, and the Annual Pause for the Pledge of Allegiance. This patriotic Come to Leonardtown Town th th event will be held on Flag Day, Monday, June 14 , Square on Sunday, April 25 beginning at 6 PM on the Governmental Center between 8 AM - 4 PM and see lawn. Free hand-held flags for all in attendance! For classic and antique cars, trucks, and street rods more information call 301-475-4200, ext. 1341. on display. Trophies awarded for best of class, best of show, people’s choice, foreign car, pedal car class, Downtown Tunes and model car contest. Kids can also enjoy a tractor Grab your family, friends, and lawn chairs, pull, games and prizes! Sponsored by the St. Mary’s and boogie with “Downtown Tunes”, held in the Rod and Classic Car Club to benefit Hospice of St. Leonardtown Square on the 4th Saturdays of May Mary’s. Contact Bill Higgs at 301-994-9666 or go through August. on-line http://stmarysrodandclassic.com for details • May 22: Jazz sounds kick-off the 2010 series. and registration. (Rain date: Sunday, May 2nd) • June 26: Acoustic melodies Jeanne Norton Hammett of the North End March of Dimes Walk • July 24: Country sounds Gallery assists Maryland Comptroller, The March of Dimes will hold their annual • August 28: Rock-n-Roll favorites Peter Franchot during his “Shop Local” Southern Maryland “March for Babies” walk Downtown Tunes begins at 6 PM. While enjoying tour in Leonardtown on December 4, 2009. on Saturday, May 1st in historic downtown the music, take a few minutes to stroll around Mayor Norris, Delegate John F. Wood, Jr., Leonardtown. The 3-mile walk begins at 9 AM the Town Square and check out our shops and County Commissioners Jack Russell and in the Town Square. Register online at www. restaurants! For more information, contact Robin Thomas Mattingly, and other members of marchforbabies.org or on Walk-Day beginning at Guyther at 301-904-4452. the community joined Comptroller Franchot, 7:30 AM. For more information call 301-934-2235. who believes that putting money back into the community and supporting local area businesses is a great way to River Concert Series on Location in Leonardtown Square invigorate local economy. Mark your calendar for Saturday, July 10th and Saturday, July 17th to enjoy a St. Mary’s River Concert Series performance in the Leonardtown Square. The concerts will begin at 7 PM. You are welcome to bring a lawn chair or blanket! Leonardtown Beacon For an added treat, consider dinner at one of Leonardtown’s fine restaurants. Visit 2 Leonardtown.somd.com for performance details. 4th Graders . . . Come On Out! Mayor “What Would You Do J. Harry Norris, III College of Southern Maryland’s If You Were Mayor of Twilight Performance Series Leonardtown?” Town Council CSM’s Twilight Performance Series returns Walter Wise, Vice-President The Maryland Municipal this summer to present sensational entertainment for Daniel W. Burris League’s Communication the whole family! Performances scheduled at the CSM Thomas R. Collier Committee is sponsoring its Leonardtown Campus are as follows: Robert C. Combs annual “If I Were Mayor, I Leslie E. Roberts Tuesday, July 6: Chautauqua 2010: “Borders, would….” essay contest for Boundaries, and Barriers” 4th grade students. This year’s Town Office Staff Tuesday, July 13: Fitzmaurice Band performs bluegrass theme is: “Using Community Laschelle McKay, Town Administrator and country to jazz, classical, international folk and Volunteers”. When serving Rebecca Sothoron, Treasurer classic rock. as a community volunteer, citizens can learn about their Jackie Post, Fiscal Clerk Tuesday, July 20: Terrence McArdle & Big Trouble will local government, practice teamwork, and use their talents Teri Dimsey, Executive Secretary entertain you with swing, blues, and R&B favorites. and abilities to improve their city or town. If you were Jeannine Peele, Town Secretary Mayor, how would you get citizens to volunteer? What DeAnn Adler, Plans Reviewer Tuesday, July 27: Alegria will captivate you with an Linda Shepherd, Public Relations engaging mix of Brazilian, Cuban, Caribbean, Spanish jobs would you give volunteers and why? How would you thank and encourage your volunteers? Be creative! Barbara Dotson, Grants Writer Flamenco, and American jazz standards. Tony Wheatley, Capital Project Coordinator All concerts begin at 6:45 PM. Bring your family, a One winning essay will be selected from each of the Cpl. Peggy Smolarsky Town Deputy picnic basket (non-alcoholic beverages only), and a lawn MML’s 11 regional districts throughout the State. Winners chair or blanket. Visit www.csmd.edu/FineArts/ for more will receive a $250 savings bond, an award plaque, and be Utilities Staff information and a complete calendar of events. recognized at the Municipal Government Week celebration John “Jay” Johnson, Superintendent activity held at the Maryland State House. Essays must Timmy Lacey, Asst. Superintendent Kayaking and Canoeing at Leonardtown be submitted to MML by April 1, 2010. Students can Joe Bucior, Operator Wharf and the Port of Leonardtown download an official entry form, complete contest rules, Greg Owen, Operator and contest study guide by visiting the MML website at Bring your kayak or canoe and enjoy breathtaking www.mdmunicipal.org and clicking on 2010 Mayor’s Planning & Zoning scenery from the waters of Breton Bay at Leonardtown Essay Contest Brochure. For further assistance, call MML Wharf Park and McIntosh Run at the Port of Leonardtown Board Members at 1-800-492-7121 or the Town Office at 301-475-9791. Jean Moulds, Chair Launch Ramp. Frank Fearns, Vice-Chair Don’t have your own kayak or canoe? The Town Volunteer at Town Events! John “Jack” Candela has contracted with McIntosh Outfitters for kayak and Leonardtown is always scouting for volunteers to Heather Earhart canoe rentals, complete with paddles and personal help with our many events! Students who need community Glen Mattingly flotation devices. Check availability and prices on site, service credits can also benefit by serving as an event or call McIntosh Outfitters in advance to arrange your trip volunteer. Interested persons should contact the Town Office Board of Appeals at 240-577-3971. You can also contact Hillside Ride for at 301-475-9791 for available volunteer opportunities. Dr. Herbert Winnik, Chair shuttle transportation at 301-475-0065. Jerome DuVal Dr. William Icenhower 2010 Maryland to Kentucky Reunion “First Fridays” are Special Darren Meyer The Maryland to Kentucky Reunion is returning in Leonardtown! Joan Ritchie to St. Mary’s County this summer, from Friday July 16th Experience Leonardtown! “First through Sunday July 18th. Reunion participants will be Fridays” are celebrated in Leonardtown Meetings traveling from all over the country, and are coming not the first Friday evening of every month, Town Council - 2nd Monday of each only to see the land their forefathers left behind, but also year round, 5 PM - 8 PM. Visit Downtown month @ 4:00 PM in the Town Office. Mar. 8, Apr. 12, May 10, June 14, July 12, to meet their St. Mary’s County “cousins”. They will Leonardtown, Breton Marketplace, and Aug. 9, Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Dec. 13. want to talk with the “stay behinds” and will be seeking the Maryland Antiques Center Complex your invaluable help as they research their roots. to enjoy trendy art galleries, superb The Maryland to Kentucky Reunion planning Planning & Zoning Commission - 3rd restaurants, and unique retail shops and Monday of each month @ 4:00 PM in the committee hopes you will join us in “welcoming home” businesses. our returning descendants! Special events will include a Town Office. Mar. 15, Apr. 19, May 17, Many of the shops and businesses offer “First Welcome Home reception on Friday, a Saturday evening June 21, July 19, Aug. 16, Sept. 20, Oct. dinner, and breakfast on Sunday morning. All events will Friday” specials, including poetry readings, book 18, Nov. 15, Dec. 20. take place at the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department signings, cooking classes, jewelry making, receptions, Social Hall. More information and registration forms are live music and more! The galleries invite you to Contact the Town: available at www.MDtoKYReunion.club.officelive.com browse and meet the artists - perhaps you will find that Commissioners of Leonardtown on the web, and in the Leonardtown Town Office. perfect piece of fine art to showplace in your home Proffitt Building or office. Relax with dinner at one of our 41660 Courthouse Drive Leonardtown on the Web excellent restaurants, where you can often find P.O. Box 1 Leonardtown, MD 20650 For current news, special menu specials unique to “First Friday”. events in and around Town, Make plans now to rediscover the many Phone: 301-475-9791 community information, treasures of Leonardtown! “First Fridays” Fax: 301-475-5350 Leonardtown businesses, are sponsored in cooperation with the E-Mail: Leonardtown.commissioners@ history and more, be sure to Leonardtown Business Association. Check verizon.net check the official Leonardtown www.leonardtownfirstfridays.com for a list of Website: Leonardtown.somd.com web site at Leonardtown. “First Friday” participants and specials. somd.com. You can browse the Leonardtown Beacon newsletter on-line too! Come see Leonardtown’s Web Site: what’s new in historic Winter 2009/Spring 2010 www.leonardtown.somd.com Leonardtown!!! 3 Leonardtown Volunteer Community Highlights Fire Department Auxiliary th Torrential Rains Halt the Celebrates 75 Anniversary 2009 Annual Veterans Day On October 17, 1934 the Ladies Parade Auxiliary to the Leonardtown November 11th in Leonardtown is Volunteer Fire Department was customarily bustling with patriotic energy, organized to provide support floats, marching bands, motorcycles and financial aid to the firemen. and many other decorated marchers and The Auxiliary’s first fund raiser was a card party that netted $75. spectators to honor our country’s Veterans. Eventually, other fund raisers While torrential rains halted the 2009 Veterans Day Parade, the spirit Mayor Norris and Town Council of patriotism prevailed. Wreaths were laid at the monuments in the member Leslie Roberts presents were added, including raffles, a 75th Anniversary award to catering, dances, dinners, pancake Town Square, followed by a memorial ceremony in the Leonard Hall Kit Pilkerton, President of the suppers, bake sales, basket bingo, Recreation Center, where those in attendance were warmly welcomed Leonardtown Volunteer Fire and sales of cotton candy, French by Mayor Norris and other state and local officials. Highlights of Department Auxiliary. fries, and snow cones when the the ceremony included singing of the National Anthem by Hayden annual carnival was in operation. Over the years, several hundred Hammett, performing the Armed Forces Medley by the Chopticon High thousand dollars has been raised by the Auxiliary. The most recent School Band, and playing of Taps by Ben Godwin of the CHS band. check in the amount of $25,000 was presented to the Fire Department Reciting their prize-winning essays titled “What Veterans Day Means on January 3, 2010 during the joint Installation Banquet. Fund raising to Me” were Alyssa Bazemore, Marquez Brice, Emma Gilligan, and efforts by the Auxiliary continues to provide firemen’s insurance, and Grant Wolfe, students of Leonardtown Elementary School. has extended to include necessary equipment, running gear, digital Christmas on the Square & cameras, etc. for the fire trucks, uniforms, additions and renovations to the firehouse, tables and chairs for the social hall, and emergency Annual Tree Lighting vehicles including two pickup trucks, a van and ladder truck. “It’s beginning to feel a lot like In 1998 the Ladies Auxiliary to the Leonardtown Volunteer Christmas…” was echoed by many Fire Department was renamed the Auxiliary of the Leonardtown as the cold temperatures set the Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. so that men interested in joining festive atmosphere for Leonardtown’s and supporting the Auxiliary could do so. The first President of the Christmas on the Square and Annual Tree Lighting! Thousands of Auxiliary in 1934 was Mrs. Florence Cropper. The current Auxiliary people huddled together in the Town Square to watch Santa light the President is Katharine Pilkerton. “Kit” is a 40-year member of Christmas tree, while sounds of the season were performed on-stage by the Auxiliary, and served as President between 1982-1986 and the St. Aloysius Spirit Singers, Jonah and Simon Yeh, Gracie’s Guys and 2004-present. On January 6, 2010, the Auxiliary, Fire Department Gals, Super Magic Man Reggie Rice and the Blue Sky Puppet Theater. and Leonardtown community was heartbroken over the sudden death Additional entertainment around Town included horse and carriage of Auxiliary member Mary Jane Scully. “Janie” was a member and rides, sleigh rides, hay rides, fire truck rides, costumed characters, a tireless supporter of the Auxiliary for over 58 years. live nativity, hot kettle corn, hot apple cider and other activities that delighted the hearts of everyone. “Best Dressed Window Award” Congratulations to Olde Towne Stitchery, winner of the “Best Dressed Window Award”. Diane Fenwick, owner of Leonardtown’s new quilt and fabric shop, accepts the award presented by Town Administrator, Laschelle McKay. The Town appreciates Diane and Members of the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary are all the downtown business owners who th recognized during their 75 Anniversary celebration. decorated their storefronts for the Christmas holiday season. Are you looking to serve your community? The Auxiliary needs you and invites you to join them! Meetings are held every first LVRSA Christmas Festival Thursday of the month at the Leonardtown Fire House at 7:00 PM. Decorated Christmas trees and wreaths were For more information on the history of the Auxiliary, or to become a enjoyed by many visiting the “Christmas member and make history, contact Kit Pilkerton at 301-475-9049. Festival”, sponsored by the Leonardtown Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary November rd th Santa Visits the Town Square 23 - 27 . This festival is one of several fund- raising activities held by the Auxiliary to support Santa and Mrs. Claus visited Leonardtown on a beautiful sunny the Leonardtown Volunteer Rescue Squad. Saturday, December 12th! Over 100 children lined up to give Santa their wish lists and convince Mr. Claus that they truly belong on the The LVRS is currently seeking funds to “nice” list! Parents also had a chance to snap some photos for their demolish their existing building and construct memory book. While waiting in line, many enjoyed a larger building that would be adequate for the sipping hot chocolate provided by the Squires, a new growing needs of our community. If you would like to help, please go to group of young men ages 8-16 affiliated with the their web site at www.lvrs.org to donate on-line, or mail your tax deductible Knights of Columbus. donation to LVRS, P.O. Box 299, Leonardtown, MD 20650. The Leonardtown Volunteer Rescue Squad and Auxiliary also 4 Leonardtown Beacon welcomes new members! Apply on-line today when you visit their website. Community Highlights Newtowne Village Residents Enjoy Christmas Dinner Enjoying Christmas dinner and OPENING SOON! sharing Christmas joy! On December The long awaited Port of Leonardtown Winery will be 18, 2009, residents of Newtowne opening its doors to the public on Friday, May 7th during Village sat down to a lovely Leonardtown’s First Friday event. The first of the white Christmas dinner selflessly prepared wines will be ready for sampling and finishing touches on the by Leonardtown’s Deputy Peggy beautiful new tasting room will be complete. To celebrate this Smolarsky and her husband Ed. accomplishment, we invite you to join us for a grand opening st Newtowne Village Residents Donate Hats to Hospice ceremony and ribbon cutting on Friday, May 21 at 2 PM. The Port of Leonardtown Winery will be operated by The Newtone Village Southern Maryland Winegrowers Cooperative. Mark your residents Nancy Kemmis, calendars now and be one of the first to share in this exciting Margaret May, Sally Koenig, new experience. Barbara Courtney, and Josephine Lawrence smile as they donate handmade knitted and crocheted hats to Hospice of St. Mary’s on March 9th. Hospice nurse Cathy Fenwick accepted their donations Leonardtown Featured in 2010 with an equally big smile! St. Mary’s County Visitor Guide In a partnership with St. Mary’s County Congratulations! Leonardtown “First Friday” Winners! Tourism, Great State Publishing (Publishers of Maggie Daly was the excited winner Maryland Life magazine) and Commissioners of a Fuji Crosstown bicycle, donated in of Leonardtown this year’s St. Mary’s County part by Mike’s Bikes, Century 21 New Visitors Guide will feature Leonardtown. Millenium, and Leonardtown “First Seventy five thousand copies of the guide will Friday” businesses during Leonardtown’s be printed and distributed throughout the State. December First Friday event! The spirit of The Town will also be featured in the July/August the season shone when 12-year old Maggie issue of Maryland Life magazine. Tourism plays an ever increasing announced she was giving the bike to her dad part in the local economy and this partnership is a great opportunity for Christmas. to increase the awareness of our charming town. Congratulations to Leonardtown’s 2010 Comprehensive Land Use Plan Update February Valentine’s winner, Charlie All jurisdictions in Maryland are required to update their Comprehensive Micallef! Charlie’s Valentine’s gifts included Land Use Plans every six years. The plan is a blueprint for guiding the Town a one night stay at the Executive Inn & as it develops in the future. The plan has legal significance in that zoning, Suites on Park Avenue in Leonardtown, provision of water and sewer, and other local actions must be consistent dinner at Café des Artistes, lunch at Vineyard Café & Tea Room with its recommendations. The comprehensive plan may also be known at the Maryland Antiques Center, and Gift Certificates from North as a “master plan”, “master development plan” or “comprehensive master End Gallery, Maryland Antiques Center, Shelby’s Framing plan”. This year marks the beginning of several new state requirements to be & Turning Leaf Gallery, and a weaving included in the plans. demonstration at Treadles Studio. A committee of local residents, businesspeople and property owners has worked with a consultant for the last several months drafting a plan to move News from the forward through the public process. The first public hearing was held before Leonardtown Business Association the Leonardtown Planning Commission on March 15th. Comments from The Leonardtown Business Association that hearing and recommendations from the Planning Commission will be welcomes their newest members: Lola Belle, forwarded to the Town Council for a second public hearing to be held April th Griffin Flooring Max, and Hot Diggety Dog. 12 at 4:15 PM. A copy of the draft plan is available on the town website at Leonardtown.somd.com for anyone interested in reviewing the plan. LBA members can enjoy showcasing their business, networking with other business men and Congratulations to the 2010 LBA women, advertising opportunities, participating Officers: Treasurer, Susan Kilroy, in First Friday events, keeping up-to-date on Loan Officer, Community Bank of Leonardtown projects, and receiving news from Tri-County; President, Dan Norris, County representatives and businesses. CEO, DRN Environmental Solutions, The LBA is currently sponsoring a membership LLC; Secretary, Melinda Owens, drive to raise its profile, heighten tourism, and promote local Sales Manager, Heritage Printing shopping. Monthly meetings are held every second Friday and Graphics; and Vice-President, at 8:30 AM. Annual membership is only $100. We encourage you Joe Orlando, Owner, to visit the LBA’s new website at www.thelba.org or contact Dan Fenwick Street Used Books & Music. Norris, LBA President, at dnorris@drnenvironmentalsolutions. com to join the LBA today! Winter 2009/Spring 2010 For a copy of the new and exciting LBA brochure, call the Town Office at 301-475-9791. 5 VOTE – VOTE -- VOTE Residential Water Meter Update 2010 Leonardtown Elections – May 4th The first phase of the residential meter installation project was completed in December, An elected Mayor and five-member Town Council which included the installation of meter vaults at serve four-year terms on a rotating basis to govern GOING all single family residences. The installation of Leonardtown. This year, three Town Council seats are up GREEN the actual meter units is currently underway and for election and will be voted on. Town residents must the estimated completion is June 2010. Residents IN be registered to vote and be at least 18 years of age on or should anticipate actual consumption information LEONARDTOWN! before the day of general election, and reside within the to be shown on their September and December incorporated limits of Leonardtown. Having a Leonardtown quarterly utility bills for information only. A new mailing address or owning property within the incorporated rate structure should be in place by the first billing limits does not qualify you as an actual resident. To confirm cycle in 2011. Until then water and sewer use will that you actually reside within the incorporated limits of continue to be billed at a flat rate. Please watch Leonardtown, or if you have other election questions, please for updated information in future Beacon editions contact the Town Office at 301-475-9791. or online at the Town website. By making simple Important Leonardtown Election Dates: changes in our daily routines, you can reduce water usage and contribute to protecting this Friday, April 16, 2010: Voter registration deadline. precious resource for future generations! Monday, April 19, 2010: Deadline to file as a candidate for a Town Council seat. Trash Pickup and Recycling Tuesday, April 27, 2010: Deadline to submit a completed Reminders Residential trash is collected every Tuesday The Good Earth Natural Foods Co could absentee voter application. and Friday. Please remember to set your toters out the easily adapt its tag line to read, “Where Something Tuesday, May 4, 2010: Town Election Day night before or by 6:00 a.m. on the day of pick-up. Good (and Green!) Happens Everyday!” Valerie Deptula, owner, has pursued an environmentally Attention Residents! Your Maryland Tax The next quarterly bulk trash pickup dates th th friendly business model since opening the store Returns - Write in “Leonardtown” ! are Friday, March 5 and Friday, June 4 . Bulk trash items are collected at the same time as your more than 10 years ago. Renovations to its current Residents! It is important that you complete the city, regular trash on these days. location included the installation of energy efficient town or taxing area box on your 2009 Maryland income tax lighting and the seasonal use of LED holiday lights return - write or type in “Leonardtown”! A large source Residential recycling is picked up on on the building’s exterior. of the Town’s operating budget is local income tax revenues. Wednesdays. Remember to set your recycling Customers who bring their own bags are This does not increase your taxes but, thanks to you, it does tote out the night before or by 6:00 a.m. the day offered a wooden token, worth five cents, to ensures that the Town will receive its proper distribution of pick-up. With streamlined recycling, it’s eas- contribute to one of three community charities of your income tax dollars that will be used right here in ier than ever to recycle your newspapers, phone chosen each year by store staff. The recycled glass Leonardtown! If you are not sure whether you live in the books, cardboard, glass, plastic, cans, and other jars fill with tokens and The Good Earth donates corporate limits, please call the Town office at 301-475-9791. approved items. the collected amount at the end of the year. All Town residents should contact the Town Of- paper products used in the store’s demonstration Permits Required for Home Repairs fice to request a trash or recycling tote. Log on kitchen are eco-friendly and recyclable paper and Town residents making plans for home improvement to http://leonardtown.somd.com/services for more plastic items are placed in mixed use recycling projects are reminded that building permits are required for information on Leonardtown’s trash service, bulk bins. Cardboard boxes are broken down and put in sheds, decks, swimming pools, piers, room additions and trash, holiday pick-up, and acceptable recyclables. a recycle container. Packaging “peanuts”, collected additional living space. Applications for building permits Look for the Recycling emblem on all your each week, are taken to The Shipping Store for should be made at least two weeks before beginning your new disposables! With single stream recycling, Goode reuse and all unsold produce is shared with the soup and exciting additions! In some instances, approval may also be Trash Removal continues to see a vast increase kitchen at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in required from your homeowner’s association before a building in Leonardtown’s recycling efforts. “Thank You” Leonardtown. Expired produce and compostable permit can be issued. Contact the Town Office for details. residents and customers, for making recycling an materials are given to a local, organic homestead for important part of your daily routine to help save livestock and gardening use. Eco-friendly cleaning Rt. 245 Traffic Planning Study our planet! products are used by staff for store maintenance and A Traffic Planning Study is underway for Rt. 245 in Goode Trash Removal will operate on its live plants, placed atop the retail coolers, help with Leonardtown. Jointly sponsored by the Town of Leonardtown, regular Tuesday and Friday trash pick-up day, and air quality. St. Mary’s County Government, College of Southern Wednesday recycling day during the weeks con- There are numerous ways for customers and Maryland and St. Mary’s Hospital, the study will be developed taining President’s Day, Memorial Day and Inde- staff to utilize environmentally friendly practices in by a qualified traffic engineering consulting firm, Desman pendence Day holiday. day to day store operations. And, the sum total of Associates. The study will look at the current and planned everyone’s effort can make a big difference. projects that impact traffic along this important corridor in Commercial Customer Recycling Visit The Good Earth Natural Foods Co. town and make recommendations for improvements including Commercial customers interested in on line at http://www.goodearthnaturals.com/ or pedestrian, traffic flow and connectivity. The study will be comingled recycling service should call Jackie stop by the store located at 41675 Park Avenue in complete in approximately 60 days. Post at 301-475-9791 to order your tote and Leonardtown and check out their amazing variety Municipal Parking Lot Reopens schedule the servicing of your account. Goode of organic, natural and specialty foods, gluten Trash Removal will provide you with a 96-gallon and wheat-free products, herbs, spices, essential The Town has completed the renovation of the recycling tote and pick up your recyclables on oils, natural pet products, fruits and vegetables, Washington Street Municipal Parking Lot next to The Wednesdays. This is not a free service, and and more! The Good Earth Natural Foods Co. Hair Company. This project was part of the mitigation customers will be charged $4.75 each time your is a member of the Leonardtown for the Critical Area impacts along Fenwick Street for the tote is collected. The expected outcome is that Business Association and active streetscape project. The State Highway Administration your garbage service can be reduced, which would participant in Leonardtown’s “First funded the construction and the project was designed to partially offset the recycling fee. Some customers Friday” events. improve stormwater management for the area as well may need service every week; others may need as improve the aesthetics of the public lot. Bay Country less. You can request more than one tote if you Leonardtown Beacon Contractors did a great job as the general contractor and anticipate a large volume of recycling material. 6 Stepping Stone did a fantastic job of laying the brick pavers.

At Home in Leonardtown featuring . . . of their Catholic education and their St. Aloysius Church Celebrates 300 Years of Catholic Faith dreams for the future. Continued from page 1 On June 26, The third and present day St. Aloysius Church parish community through “Honoring our 2010, the St. Aloysius stands on Washington Street in Leonardtown. Present: Celebrating Today”. Comprised of more Church Tri-centennial This colonial-style church, dedicated on March than 870 households, the parish is vibrant and Celebration will 18, 1962, is characteristic of modern design identifies the church as its “people”. Spiritual conclude as it that continues to serve the parish. It’s beautiful opportunities exist in 25 ministries within the began, with a special and expansive interior parish that mutually embrace Mass celebrated by provides adequate seating for the members and serve the Archbishop Donald Mass, as well as weddings, parish. Ministries include a Wuerl, con-celebrated funerals, first communions, Parish Pastoral Council, the by Father John confirmations and other St. Vincent dePaul Society, Dakes, Father Francis occasions. A number a twinning program in Burch and former of relics from the second Botswana, Catechists, Adult pastors and associate church, including a statue of Faith Formation, Junior pastors of the parish. St. Aloysius and the Jenkins High and High School Youth A parish dinner/ Memorial Bell were salvaged Ministry, a Children’s Choir dance will follow and can be seen in and around (Spirit Singers), a Youth at the Leonardtown the church today. Parishioners gather at the new Choir (Cross Generation), Volunteer Fire Memorial Stone placed at the first St. an Adult Choir (Grateful Department. Rejoicing in its Tri- Aloysius Church site on Cemetery Road. centennial, St. Aloysius Hearts), committees for T h r o u g h o u t parish formed a Evangelization, Pro- the history of St. committee of ten hard- Life, Homebound, Aloysius Church, The 300th Anniversary working volunteers Meals for Friends, the parishioners have quilt, designed and to plan a three-year Bible Study, been blessed with created by Mrs. Ann Combs. The top panel celebration of liturgical Welcoming of New many talented and Parishioners, Teachers dedicated pastors, is an image of the 1766 and social events, all Church. The middle centered on the overall and Administrators at assistant pastors, Father Andrew White panel is the logo of the theme: “Celebrating altar servers, choirs, Society of Jesus, the 300 Years of Catholic School, and others. lectors, ushers, and Jesuits who founded the Faith in St. Mary’s Events throughout others too numerous parish. The bottom panel County.” the year included a to mention. To is an image of St. Aloysius Winter Potluck Dinner read more about St. Gonzaga. Adorning the During the first The Spirit Singers perform on the 3rd Sunday of and plans for a parish Aloysius Gonzaga quilt is the Maryland year of celebration, the month at the 11:00 a.m. Mass. They have also traveled to the Capitol and the Kennedy Center. trip to Italy to walk Church, its mission, state bird, the Baltimore July 2007 through in the footsteps of St. and opportunities, Oriole; branches of the June 2008, the parish focused on events of Aloysius Gonzaga. Fundraising efforts included log on to http://www. state tree, the White Oak; their beginnings with the theme “Reverencing the state flower, the Black- prints of an original painting by local artist George saintaloysiuschurch. our Ancestors: Celebrating our Past”. An Eyed Susan; and the State McWilliams of the present day church, and a glass org/ or contact Father inaugural Mass was celebrated on July 1, 2007 crustacean, the Maryland etching of the present day church, which are still John Dakes at 301- by Archbishop Donald Wuerl, assisted by Father Blue Crab. available for purchase. 475-8064. John Dakes and Father Francis Burch. Following Mass, a parish picnic was enjoyed at Father During the third and final year of its Andrew White School. This celebratory year celebration, July 2009 through June 2010, the parish looks beyond today with the theme The Office of the Commissioners highlighted memorabilia displayed in the church of Leonardtown will be closed vestibule, special Anniversary Banners placed at “Dreaming our Future: Celebrating our Youth.” in observance of upcoming 2010 the church entrance, and a “St. Aloysius Gonzaga The parish sees young people both as a part Tri-Centennial Prayer” composed for the parish of the Church today, as well as the Church of Holidays: by Rev. Paul G. Mast. Additional mementos tomorrow, and celebrates today’s youth as they May 31 Memorial Day consisted of a 300th Anniversary Parish Pictorial seek to commit themselves to God’s call in single July 5 Independence Day Directory containing parish history and historic life, marriage, priesthood, or religious life. To September 6 Labor Day photos, and “Living Memories” written by parish fortify this aspiration, the parish offers several November 11 Veteran’s Day members that were published in the weekly ministries for youth participation, including youth November 25 Thanksgiving Day bulletin to serve as parish history documentation lectors, ushers, two Youth Ministries – “Edge” November 26 Day after Thanksgiving for future generations. In the spring of 2008, a re- (Junior High), and “LifeTeen” (High School), December 24 Christmas Day Dedication Mass was held at the Old St. Aloysius Family Game Night, and monthly Youth Mass. To Cemetery, where a Memorial Stone was placed on challenge the youth and parishioners in their faith the site of the first parish church. and religious call, the parish instituted a vocation cross that passes from family-to-family each week, The second year of celebration, July and a Lenten mission centering on the Eucharist. 2008 through June 2009, focused on today’s Parish youth are also invited to submit memories Wintee 2009/Spring 2010 7 Historical Society Successful in Town Tidbits Nomination of Newtown Manor House The Olde Towne Stitchery is Here! The St. Mary’s County Historical Leonardtown’s new and charming Society is proud to announce that its quilting shop opened on December 28th, nomination of the Newtown Manor House 2009, and followed with a grand opening for the Endangered Maryland program, a celebration and ribbon cutting on Friday, partnership between Preservation Maryland January 15th, 2010. Do you want to learn and Maryland Life Magazine, was accepted to quilt? Do you have a friend who wants to as one of eleven endangered sites in learn? Quilting classes and special project Maryland for their 2010 program. All the

classes for all levels can be found at the sites are featured in the March/April 2010 Photo by Frank Marquart Frank by Photo Olde Towne Stitchery. Be sure to stop in issue of Maryland Life. Visit the Town Café des Artistes and visit the Olde Towne Stitchery located website for more information. Celebrates 10 Years in Leonardtown at 41665 Fenwick Street or check www. Chef Loic & Karleen Jaffres invite you oldetownestitchery.com for news, classes, Staff Notes to join them in celebrating 10 years of fine specials, and more! Over the past French cuisine and culinary masterpieces! three years, our Every weekday, the Café will feature a Diane Fenwick, proud Event Coordinator, special $10 all-inclusive lunch in honor of owner of Olde Towne Julie Lemmon, has 2010! Other 10-year anniversary specials Stitchery, is excited to kept Leonardtown events rolling. The Town will be offered throughout the year. Ask offer quilters a variety of excellent quality wishes Julie all the best as she moves on to about Le Salon if you’re looking for a private fabric, sewing notions, new challenges! We will miss you! room to accommodate your dinner party. books, patterns, and Café des Artistes is located at 41655 Fenwick handmade quilts. Street in Leonardtown. Reservations are It’s the Law – Pick Up After Your Pet! recommended. Call 301-997-0500 or visit St. Mary’s Hospital Did you know that pet waste is a health concern http://www.cafedesartistes.ws/ on the web that contributes to the spread of parasites and for more details. Merges with MedStar Health possible disease? When enjoying a walk around Congratulations to St. Mary’s Hospital Leonardtown, the Town Square and Leonardtown The Lola Belle Co. in Leonardtown, who recently became the Wharf Park, please be responsible by cleaning Is Now Open! ninth hospital in MedStar Health’s network up and properly disposing of any waste left by your dog. The Town will be enforcing the law The Lola Belle and the first hospital in the Southern Maryland region to join the region’s largest and charging a $50 fine to offenders. You can Co. offers unique promote neighborhood courtesy by keeping our home accents, nonprofit healthcare system. The hospital grounds as sanitary and unsoiled as possible for furnishings, gifts, already has an established relationship all to treasure! and jewelry. Personal decorating services are with MedStar Transport, as well as also available to assist clients in turning their Washington Hospital Center, which will visions into a reality. Located in the Flooring both be expanded upon as a result of the Max shopping center on Point Lookout Road in merger. Additionally, St. Mary’s Hospital Wintry Leonardtown, Amy Thompson, owner, invites was recognized with the 2009 Delmarva Scenes of you to come in and see what’s new! Open Foundation Excellence Award for Quality Monday through Saturday. For decorating Improvement and joins three other MedStar Leonardtown services or more information call 301-997-1797. hospitals in receiving this distinction. during the Snowstorms of 2010 PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 16 Commissioners of Leonardtown Leonardtown, MD 20650 P.O. Box 1 Proffitt Building 41660 Courthouse Drive Leonardtown, Maryland 20650

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www.heritageprinting.com Office Hours Monday – Friday Your Hometown Printer! 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 8 (301) 475-1700 301-475-9791 Fax: 301-475-5350 Leonardtown’s Web Site: www.leonardtown.somd.com