February 20, 2009

A Biweekly Newspaper February 20, 2009 Volume V, Number 20.

man ran out of the store. Youth Create Police Arrest A witness in the store was observing the robbery in New Worship Suspect after progress and called the police The Poolesville Falcons swimming emergency line. Several police and diving team finished up their Service CVS Robbery cruisers were dispatched to the By Rande Davis season. See Youth Sports on Page 8. By Jack Toomey scene, and Officer Gabriel Stone (Picture by Dave Wade.) arrived just as the suspect ran In September of 2007, the On Monday, January 26, out the front door of the store. youth of St. Peter’s Church, during the late afternoon, a Officer Stone chased him into along with guidance from young man entered the CVS a nearby field where he was congregant Joel Tjornehoj, store located at 19594 Fisher apprehended. Officers soon -ar accepted a unique chal- Avenue in Poolesville. He went rived and assisted in the arrest. lenge to take ownership of to the pharmacy counter situ- Police charged Andrew Cubley, their religious experience. In ated in the rear of the store and age 21, of the 19100 block of doing so, they were encour- presented a note to the pharma- Dowden Circle, Poolesville, aged to be creative but free cist. The note indicated that the with armed robbery. to develop their own service man had a gun and a bomb and Manager Ray Valente, cit- while keeping the fundamen- demanded a certain prescrip- ing company policy, refused to The steady dedication of Ken tals of the church’s Book of tion drug that is used to combat discuss the robbery and did not Fitzwater, as demonstrated by Common Prayer still intact. severe pain. The pharmacist make other employees available his twenty-five years of service at Even the name of the pro- complied with the demand and for comment. Poolesville Baptist Church, will gram—CRE8—comes from gave the suspect an unspecified be missed by many. the teens. They have created amount of the drug, and the a worship service—music, setting, message (homily) and develop a service that is espe- ing light show, contemporary prayers—while reserving the cially meaningful to them. music with a strong beat that sanctification of the communal For an adult, first-time ob- can even include elements of elements to the priest—not that server of the worship service, rap, all wrapped around the the adults have totally “left the the experience can be quite familiar communion service. building.” They are still there startling, especially for an The Monocle sat in dur- for guidance and support, but Episcopalian, like myself. We ing the group’s preparatory the youth have been left free to are talking big screens, flash- meetings. The meetings are casual with the youths sitting on couches and on the floor in a family room setting. Joel The time-honored game of darts Tjornehoj guides the discus- is alive and well at Cugini’s. Read sions with questions and assists all about it on Page 17. by keeping everything focused and on task, but it is the youths who get the job done. The process begins with a Bible study conducted by Father Tom (which was actu- ally requested by the youth), so they have more understanding and background of the lessons to be read. Their enthusiasm is conta- Bad news for an old house in gious as they banter back and Barnesville. See Local News on The CRE8 kids. (Back Row) Anna Clayton, Abigail Tjornehoj, Hannah Page 7. (Photograph by Kimberly -Continued on Page 3. Kempa.) Recknor, Brittany Gammell, Adam Wallace (Front Row) Amy Stamm, Hannah Dowdy, and Krystal Stevens. February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 

Teacher Kevin Lee (front left) has a large crew that The WUMCO Board of Directors at brings the daily news to PHS students on their their first meeting of the new year: television program Falcon Media. Tracy Forfa (vice president), Angela Drum (secretary/treasurer), Ray Hoewing, Jane Stearns (executive director), Cherise Praniewski, Former PHS female students (now at UMBC in Nancy Allnut (president), and Mike the graduate social work program) attended a Plumber. Not pictured: Renee Brooks Poolesville town meeting to research a project. and photographer Rande Davis. With them are their fiancés, left to right: Roger Cochran (PHS 2005), Kimberly Farr (PHS 2005), Commissioner Jim Brown, Holly Simmons (PHS 2003), and Tim Gaydos, (PHS 2004). February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 

“CRE8” Continued From Page 1. Hannah, while only in middle service. Drummers and guitar- a strong sense of self-impor- school, recently gained recogni- ist can change from week to tance, yet he is humbled by the forth about the message in tion in the Washington Post for week. Past and current mem- simplicity of God’s help. The the lessons and gospel, focus- the Christmas Pageant that she bers of the youth band include theme they select is centered ing first on the story itself and authored which was used by Karl Mihm (now off to college), on “from the haughty to the then on key words within the St. Peter’s this past Christmas James Siegrist, Jack Seeger, and humble and from the humble readings. As they focus on the season. Hannah was overjoyed Zack Reizess. to the Almighty.” Yet there is accumulated list of key words, by that article, especially since About CRE8, Father Tom another part of the story a little they are encouraged to relate it was on the front page above observes a delightful role less obvious that blends so well the story to their personal lives the fold, and said, “A family reversal. “The teenagers at St. with the concept of CRE8. In or current times. Once the member said they had worked Peter’s are some of the finest the story, a young slave girl of group settles on a theme, they their whole lives to get a story I’ve ever spent time with. At abiding faith who is handmaid- select one person to write up in the A section.” Although a this last CRE: 8 service, they en to Namaan’s wife implores the first draft of the homily. bit younger than the rest, she is were ministering to me, which her “to have her husband go For this service, members a passionate writer, especially is the beauty of their ministry. to the prophet in Samaria. He of the message team consisted in “writing poems about topics We aren’t used to letting our would heal him of leprosy.” We of Krystal Stevens (who this dear to my heart,” she says. young people ‘do’ for us, and do not even know this teenag- time wrote the first draft and Helping to write some parts of these teens have put together er’s name, but it is this girl’s delivered the homily), Han- the CRE8 service is especially a wonderful ministry for this faith which moves the adults. nah Dowdy who also assists in pleasing to her. “I think that community. I am honored to Seems to us, this scenario is communion, Abigail Tjornehoj, religious writing is a great way work alongside them. From the played out with CRE8. Anna Clayton, and Hannah to express myself as well as liturgy to the message to the Recknor. To be clear, Father spreading the Lord’s word.” music, they have understood Subscribe to the Tom provides additional The music team is headed worship at its best and made it review and comments so as by lead singers Krystal Stevens accessible for a diverse group.” Monocacy Monocle to ensure theological under- and Amy Stamm. In typical Intriguingly, the sermon $31.80 per year standing and acceptance of the teenage fashion, the group for February 8 was from 2 The Monocacy Monocle homily. While one team works really gets into the selection Kings, Chapter 5, the story P.O. Box 372 on the homily, other teams take of the music. Huddled on the of the healing from leprosy Barnesville MD 20838 on their tasks. floor around their I-pod player, of Naaman, a commander in The production team the group runs through various King Aram’s army. Namaan [email protected] begins to plan the lighting and songs commenting excitedly possesses much power with the big screen, power point and seemingly all at the same presentation. Adam Roberson time. They just as well could was tasked to find possible have been talking about the top scenes from a movie that could ten pop hits. be downloaded and incorpo- The power point, big rated in the slide show. He will screen slide show is handled handle the light show during by Brittany Gammell who has the service and is advised by become very accomplished in the others to pick up the pace. putting it all together. She also It seems Father Tom, who manages the power point pro- handled the lighting the month gram during the service. before, was too conservative. The final critical element in Still another team begins CRE8 is the band team. Other the process of writing the than Father Tom, youth lead- prayers of the people to be ers Tony Walker (keyboard) used in the service. During and Kevin Collar (sax) are the the week we visited, this task only adult participants in the was led by Hannah Recknor. February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 

deserving school kids, and on the Commentary other hand, failing schools and rampant illiteracy. This is a crock, Horses Can’t of course. Lottery revenue prob- ably wasn’t ever going to increase Catch a Break school funding, but it might have By John Clayton allowed the diversion of exist- ing school funds to other worthy The road to the successful slot purposes, and there are many of machine parlor is fraught with those. Racetracks and an impor- danger and hardship. The state tant component of racetracks— of Maryland, particularly our horses—were also going to benefit governor and legislative barons, is from this legislation. Since horses discovering this in rapid fashion. thrive best on open land on large When the much-anticipated slot farms, slot machines would, ipso machine sites went out for bid, facto, also benefit the preserva- they attracted much less interest tion of open land and sustainable than expected. Very few quali- agriculture. What was not to like? fied firms bid on the sites, and It worked for me. the number of sites and machines I admit it. I liked it. Twice, I proposed was less compelling believe, I came out in print for slot than originally anticipated. The machines. Fortunately or not, I era of slot machines, or, to be had a lot of company. Over sixty precise, video lottery terminals, percent of the vote was in favor of began not with a bang, but with video lottery terminals for educa- a whimper. From a budgetary tion. Even Montgomery County, standpoint, where the state was a hotbed of slots resistance, voted anticipating big revenues from for slot machines (to be placed expanded gambling to help close elsewhere, of course), although projected revenue shortfalls, it with a lower percentage than the appears we have counted many rest of the state. So, due to a lag- chickens before they hatched. ging economy, the steak is badly This occurrence is yet an- trailing the sizzle, as the market- other consequence of the cascad- ers like to say. At this time, it does ing meltdown of our financial not look like increased gambling system. It might be easy to accept is going to close any budgetary such an eventuality as the right- holes anytime soon. This re- ful fruits of a sinful activity, but ally won’t be good for anyone. It let’s look at what is at stake. First doesn’t look like this was a good of all, slot machine revenue was way to fund our future, but before supposed to fund education in we rend our garments, consider the state. The initiative was even the words of the iconic military described as such on the ballot. leader, General Buck Turgidson, The exact wording escapes me in the movie Dr. Strangelove: now, and it was the subject of “Maybe it’s not quite fair to con- much debate and litigation. Upon demn a whole program because considering the vote, we innocent of a single slip-up.“ voters were to weigh, on the one hand, video lottery terminals and February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 

Center Stage Despite calling herself a mu- had not been commissioned. She ralist, Karen’s work goes beyond had painted after 9/11, and some- murals to faux finishes, fine art, how word got to those creating the Painting on trompe l’oeil, tapestries, and gild- memorial, and she was asked to ing in gold leaf. If a piece of wall- allow her painting to be a part of Walls—Still paper is torn, she can paint the the memorial. By Dominique Agnew bare spot to match the paper. She Most recently, Karen has loves to do marbling on columns, painted in the new Town Hall. She Careers can have the strangest “I think that’s one of my favorite has lived in Poolesville since the of beginnings. Sometimes it’s just things,” she says. She paints on early 1990s, and she really wanted a matter of being in the right place furniture, and she’s even been to contribute something to the new Muralist Karen Kouneski’s renderings at the right time. At other times, commissioned to paint on a trash structure, so she contacted Wade of historical sites in Poolesville grace it’s all about Show and Tell. can. Big Steelers fans wanted the Yost, town manager. Behind the the wall behind the commissioners’ When Karen Kouneski’s old- Steelers logo painted on the trash desks where the commissioners sit dais in the town hall. est son (now in his twenties) was can. “I’ll paint on anything,” Karen during town meetings are beauti- in the first grade at Poolesville word-of-mouth, and, of course, the says. One of her first jobs after ful renderings of historic buildings Elementary School, he decided brilliance of her work speaks for the teachers’ murals was painting of Poolesville. “It was fun [paint- that for Show and Tell, he would her, as well. the mural background behind a ing the murals],” she says. “In the bring in as an exhibit a photograph Show and Tell may have carnival ride. middle of doing it, I learned about of one of Karen’s murals. At the marked the beginning of a career, Karen’s oil paintings are also the history of Poolesville.” Painted time, she was running a daycare but it had nothing to do with a in demand. She has shown and in early December 2008, the depic- program out of her home, and lifelong passion. Before embark- sold them at some of the Historic tions blend in with the existing she had painted murals on her ing on transforming clients’ homes Medley District’s art shows in the color and style of the room, as if to walls for the children. The class with art, Karen had been a graphic old Town Hall (she has even paint- say, ghost-like, We may be part of may have been impressed, but artist and illustrator for a few ed in the old Town Hall). One of the past, but the present and the the teacher even more so—she years, and before that, well, “I’ve her paintings hangs in Poolesville future rest on our foundations. hired Karen to paint a mural in her been painting on walls since I was Elementary School of some of the Karen Kouneski can be home. Soon after, another teacher little,” she says. “I’ve always done teachers. Another of her paintings reached at 240-426-6484. commissioned a mural. Since then, art.” If you’ve seen the truck in and was hung at the Pentagon Memo- nearly fifteen years ago, Karen around town with the logo, “Still rial in remembrance of those who has been a highly-sought artist Painting on Walls,” that’s Karen. died during the 9/11 attack on the and muralist, relying primarily on Pentagon. That particular work February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 

Don Hoffacker, Ralph McKnight, Fisher and Elgin Avenues, the Commissioner Jim Brown Local News and Bubba Polland. proposal has a red brick-like requested that Strong provide The town meeting began paved section of recycled mate- a cost estimate to bury electri- Poolesville with a report by town engineer rial that serves to diminish speed cal wires along the route similar John Strong on a survey of pro- and improve pedestrian safety to what was done in the front Town Meeting posed plans for the town’s main in crossing the streets. There are of Whalen Commons on Fisher business area on Fisher Avenue proposed four-foot lane areas Avenue. Mr. Kuhlman suggested Takes a Look at extending from Wootton Av- and signage for cyclists who traf- that Mr. Strong first determine enue to Willard Road. Referred fic the town, especially on week- what Verizon, Allegheny Power, Streetscape Plans to as Streetscape, the plan is to ends, which is designed to better and PEPCO (who have lines with- By Rande Davis establish a uniform infrastruc- handle vehicle and bicycle traffic. in the town) have to say since that ture design within the town that The walking area near Wootton might determine whether or not Prior to the start of the ensures an upgrade that meets and Fisher next to Poolesville the town even needs to go to the February 9, 2009 town meeting, both practical and beautifica- Elementary School has changes expense of the estimate. Roger Strippey, representing tion objectives in line with what that better provide for the safety Mr. Strong reported that the the Poolesville Military Support planners hope will maintain of students walking to school. project, which would be devel- Group (organizers of the picnics the small town atmosphere of With part of the objective of oped over many years, is estimat- for wounded soldiers), and Wil- the area. Practical concerns in improving the landscape appear- ed at $700,000 with approximate- liam Poole, commander of the Streetscape address the American ance of the town, the proposal ly $200,000 to be paid by future American Legion Post #247, pre- with Disbilities Act (ADA) issues, includes replacing existing light developers of specific areas. Com- sented the town with a commem- speed control objectives, along poles with thirty decorative missioner Eddie Kuhlman stated orative plaque holding an Ameri- with improved merging of both lampposts like those that now that although reported publicly can flag. The flag was flown by vehicle and bicycle traffic, as well surround the parking lot of the in error, the proposal is not final soldiers of the U.S. Army Corps as enhancing the safety and con- town hall. Along the route, the and is still awaiting final approval of Engineers at Forward Opera- venience of those walking in the proposal calls for thirty-eight and that whatever the costs of the tion Base Tombstone in Lashkar town. Mr. Strong presented his cherry trees (the same that sur- project, such expenditures would Gah, Hellmond Province in twenty-one-page report showing round the Tidal Basin in Wash- be budgeted over many years Afghanistan on December 4, 2008 specifically what the changes in ington, D.C.) and benches similar and held within the constraints of to honor the town of Poolesville curbing, roadway, and sidewalks to what are now in Whalen the commissioners’ requirement for its support of the annual pic- would entail. Commons in areas where pedes- nic for wounded soldiers. Other In high traffic areas of Woot- trians would have a pattern to members of the group attending - Continued on Page 16. ton and Fisher Avenues and at congregate. were Carl Hobbs, Mr. and Mrs. February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 

Local News 10:00 p.m. that evening, and ele- and left sides. They were met by hydrants near the property, so the ments of the UMCVFD returned Mr. Meissner, who advised them fire companies had to draw water the next morning to attend the that no one was inside the build- from tankers out on Beallsville Fire Consumes still-smoldering structure. ing. Given the degree to which Road, several hundred yards Mr. Meissner said that the the fire had consumed the house away from the house. Home in fire started when cardboard prior to their arrival, the firefight- The ground around the house boxes of clothing and other items, ers pursued an “exterior, defen- was quite wet following recent Barnesville which were stacked against one sive attack,” and did not attempt rain and melted snow, and a By John Clayton side of the house, ignited from to enter the structure. Captain number of the rescue vehicles an unknown cause. The boxes Reda said that the structure that entered the property were A two-and-a-half story contained the possessions of was simply no longer safe for stuck in the mud trying to leave farmhouse on a wooded lot off a friend’s late father, and Mr. the firefighters to enter. The fire and had to be pulled out by tow Beallsville Road in Barnesville Meissner had agreed to store companies contained brush fires trucks summoned to the scene. burned on Sunday, February 8, them temporarily, although he started by the blaze and poured (Jack Toomey also contributed to despite the owner’s attempts to had chosen not to store them water on the house fire to keep it this article.) control the flames. Damage was inside the house. under control. There are no fire estimated to be in the neighbor- Mr. Meissner said he and hood of $250,000. two other men were splitting fire- Over fifty firefighters from wood on the property when they Montgomery and Frederick noticed flames beginning to climb Counties, led by the Upper up the side of the house, oppo- Montgomery County Volunteer site from where the men were Fire Department (UMCVFD) working. They tried to douse the responded when the owner of flames with water, and failing the home, Scott Meissner, called that, called 911. It was extremely 911. The firefighters battled the windy, which served to fan the fire and the wind, but were un- flames and defeat their attempts, able to save the structure from according to Mr. Meissner. being consumed by the fire. The Mr. Meissner’s emergency firefighters remained on site until call came into the UMCVFD around 11:50 a.m., con- tinuing a busy day for Station 14, which had just completed responding to a trauma event, an automo- bile accident on Beallsville road earlier that morning, and reported elsewhere in this issue of the Monocle. Captain Mario Reda led the first response to the Meissner residence, and told the Monocle that when they arrived, the fire had engulfed three sides of The remains of the Barnesville the structure, with heavy house that burned. flames on the front of the structure and on the right February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 

the same roof, we are still minis- meeting in preparation for what Church is recording all sermons Tidbits tering together for the kingdom will most likely be one of the during its worship service and of God in Poolesville.” more challenging years in recent posting them as podcasts on the Coming and Goings at Poolesville Many congregants expressed memory. While concern loomed church website—www.poolpres. Baptist Church their appreciation to Ken in open great just a little more than a com. The podcasts can be down- After twenty-five years of letters to him on their website. year ago, the loving community loaded by anyone and listened service to the Poolesville Baptist Dennis Stillman spoke for many of friends and supporters came to at anytime. Pam Mattes of Church, Ken Fitzwater has left when he wrote, “Not many men through so that 2008 ended on Poolesville Presbyterian noted his position to move on to other have had the heart and compas- a positive note. While there are that this is handy if you missed opportunities. Ken most recently sion of Ken. Sacrificing his time so many people who help in so church or if you simply want has been responsible for the facil- to do the work of the Lord was many ways, WUMCO welcomed to hear the sermon again. The ity, but as a pastor he has served something that came naturally the opportunity to especially hundredth podcast was recorded in many capacities throughout to him.” The good news for all, thank the area churches for the on January 25, 2009. The church’s his long service to the church, es- especially all those in the com- strong support and especially “balcony guy” (or chief audio/ pecially in areas relating to youth munity aware of his extensive were grateful to Covanta and visual specialist, capturing the ministries. At a time of transi- community work: Ken is not Mirant for the most generous sermons from up above) is mem- tion, he was the interim pastor moving from Poolesville, just on help in the year. The Board also ber Jon Kasner, who is respon- for the church and held it in his to a new horizon. We can still was pleased to elect and welcome sible for podcasting, among other loving and caring hands during a look forward to his warm and Mike Plumber of Poolesville as technical and electronic tasks. period that is always challenging smiling self looking around to its most recent member. Ms. Mattes also observed that “If for a church. see where he can do a few more Sermons Posted as Podcasts those soldiers who worshipped Pastor Jace Broadhurst re- good things. in our sanctuary during the Civil Poolesville Presbyterian flected on this change, “This is a Other news from Poolesville War ever knew...” time to be sad and say goodbye, Baptist is that Pastor Kyle Broady of course, but it is also a time to has found a home in the area, at least one house. look forward; it is a time to an- and his family will be joining him Local News City police were summoned soon. to the house at 4:00 a.m. after three ticipate what God is doing next. PHS 2005 Graduate Let us never forget that God has WUMCO Comes through Another men and a woman, who fled the a plan for Ken and a plan for Challenging Year Fatally Shot in residence, reported that Briggs Poolesville Baptist Church. While had threatened them and himself The Board of Directors of Standoff with Police we may not be ministering under with guns. Briggs fired out of the WUMCO held its quarterly residence toward the officers when A horrific incident involving they arrived, Martin said. Joseph Briggs, a 2005 Poolesville Briggs, whom police said was High School graduate, occurred “heavily intoxicated,” began firing at his residence in Greensburg, a weapon from a car as it traveled Pennsylvania on Sunday morning, along Interstate 70 earlier in the February 15. evening, Martin said. A passenger According to a report by P. in the car, Briggs was acting irratio- J. Panion and Liz Zemba of the nally and firing randomly out the Pittsburg Tribune-Review, Joseph car window as the vehicle traveled Frederick Briggs, 22, of Concord toward Greensburg, Martin said. Avenue, Greensburg, was pro- “Attempts to talk to Briggs nounced dead at 9:17 a.m. Sunday, proved fruitless,” Martin said. “It about five hours after his room- all really became a dangerous situ- mates called city police to report ation, especially when you have that he had threatened to harm people in their own homes nearby them and himself. unaware of what’s happening A senior at Seton Hill, Briggs because they are sleeping.” was shot and killed at about 7:00 About 7:00 a.m., Briggs went a.m. in his off-campus apartment to a window in a second-floor by an unidentified state trooper, bedroom and fired a long-barreled police said. The officer fired once weapon toward a police officer, after Briggs pointed a long-bar- Martin said. Police fired one time, reled weapon out a window of striking Briggs while he was at the his residence and shot at a police window, she said. officer, state police at Greensburg Joel Dolinski, head coach of the said. Seton Hill Griffins football team, Trooper Jeanne Martin, state said Briggs was one of 187 recruits police spokeswoman, said Briggs to try out for the team before its had fired “numerous rounds from 2005 inaugural season. He was a a variety of guns” out of the win- defensive lineman on that year’s dows of his residence during the standoff, striking parked cars and -Continued on Page 14. February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 

Local History Arthur Virts: Telling the Louisiana before being sent to back to his route carrier position the Panama Canal Zone. Even with over 500 stops in Boyds, Tales about Boyds during this short time away, he Clarksburg, and Hyattstown. If Take Me Home, By Rande Davis always carried a picture of the you lived in the area, you knew Clopper Road Ten Mile Creek Valley in Boyds Arthur and, as a postal carrier, he The newly-published book, Excerpted from Boyds: A (now under water) which he pas- probably knew more about you Boyds: A Character Study by Character Study sionately describes as “my favor- than you would care to know. Arthur Virts and friends, is a ite secret place” and even put the The tales can now be told. by Arthur Virts delightful collection of short tales picture on the cover of the book. Stories about card games in back about many of the people from After leaving the army, he rooms, strangers lurking and fol- Thomas Warren Fisher (Uncle the town who represented the went to work at Selby’s Store in lowing him mysteriously, people of Stanley Fisher, former President character of rural life in Mont- Boyds (relatives of the Poolesville in need, people with problems, of the Boyds Civic Association) gomery County for the better part Selbys) where he spent eight people causing problems, and told me that the song “Take Me of the twentieth century. years working over seventy more importantly, all real people Home, Country Roads” was actu- Boyds and Virts might just as hours a week with two of those mostly of strong character with ally inspired and written about well be considered synonymous. years having the duty of meet- loving and caring hearts. Clopper Road. Tom lived on Arthur Virts is truly Boyds’s ing the train six times a day. The Arthur has been married to Clopper Road, starting in the early boy. The eighty-year-old Boyds train would be moving just slow the love of his life and best friend, fifties. He was a member of the resident has lived his entire life in enough to throw the mail to the Mary, for fifty-seven years. To- Boyds Community Men’s Club the town only moving once from platform, and he would hang the gether they have been integral in 1954, and when he began the his birthplace to his current home outgoing mail to be grabbed as to the life of the town through Boyds Civic Association in 1965, just about 200 yards up Barnes- the train went by. decades of service in the commu- he was one of the first members. ville Road. On top of that, except In 1957, he went to work for nity, Boyds Presbyterian Church, I will always remember how he for his time in the army, he has the post office in Boyds and -be the American Legion Post #247, bought many hundreds of dollars always worked within the town. came postmaster for a short stint. and many other causes through- in postage stamps at our post At seventeen, Arthur joined He accepted the position on the out the years. office and took them to the David the army and spent twelve weeks condition that he could leave it if Arthur dedicates the book Taylor Model Basin cafeteria in Wyoming and was trained as he preferred, and after just a few to Hal Baker of Susanna Farms, where the cashier resold them a telegraph operator just at the months’ time, he knew that being publisher of the book, who (along with the food) to help our time that Morse code was in its cooped up in the small, cramped post office survive in 1965. He last days. In the military, he was -Continued on Page 14. office was not for him. He went was president of the Izaak Walton based in Virginia, Wyoming, and League and spent most of his life volunteering in conservation and small experimental-type plane fell praises West Virginia, we really wildlife issues. into the ocean while flying along know that the country road he sings Tom told me that he hosted the coast of California. about is our own Clopper Road. a family reunion gathering at his John Denver’s music will home. The party started at his always live on, and even though house, and, after drinking every- “Take Me Home, Country Roads” thing he had, they continued on to the Izaak Walton League clubhouse on Clopper Road for the reunion. Youth Sports season in every event she swam, On the way home, to pass the Alex Contreras placing second time enroute, Bill Danoff and his at the Division II championship wife Taffy Nivert, who were a duo PHS and CHS Swim meet in Diving, and a whole called Fat City, made up a ballad and Diving Team number of Metro qualifying about the little winding roads they swimmers: Cara Chuang, Devan were taking. Later, Bill changed the Short stories on the history of Season Recap Boyds Maneely, Cameron Mackail, Tyler story to fit that of an artist friend Mumford, Cody Kenly, Joseph The Poolesville High School who used to write to him about Pepper, Huy Lam, Alex Contre- swim and diving teams com- the splendors of the West Virginia ras, Siobhan Kibbey, Sam Weber, show. It was John Denver’s first pleted their season with both the countryside. and Zach Greenwald. record to hit the charts. Dan and boys’ and the girls’ teams finish- Bill and Taffy performed at a At Clarksburg, the girls won Taffy joined with another couple, ing with a record of three wins nightspot called the Cellar Door in Division IV for the second year in Jon Carroll and Margot Chap- and two losses. The girls finished Georgetown where John Denver a row while the boys improved man, to form the Starland Vocal second at the Division II meet, was also performing. They told their record to 3 and 3. Qualifying Band and were the opening act and the boys finished fourth. John about a song they had been for the Metros at CHS this year for John Denver at places like Overall, the team finished as a working on for about a month. were: Lily Amberg, Sam Amberg, Madison Square Garden in New combined team in second place They sang it for John, and he later Linda Le, and Kelsey Smith in the York City and cities all over the by one point as they look for- recalled that “he flipped.” After 200 and 400 free relays. Congratu- United States. “Afternoon De- ward to next season in Division changing the words and moving lations to all. lines around, they performed it at light” was one of their hit songs. II. Some of the highlights of the the Cellar Door. It was an instant The band broke up about 1981. swims and dives were: Cara Ch- hit and was demanded at every John Denver later died when his uang going undefeated the entire February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 10

burg Village, which has been in ris said most residents were eager In addition, Flanagan said Local News planning stages for years. Com- to see the work progress. “They that most of the storm water missioner John Robinson noted want the parks, the schools, the management facilities incorporat- that while he still had some pools, and really just a complete Clarksburg Village ed into work already done at the concerns, such as traffic, they community,” Harris said. Clarksburg Village site were not Water Issues Subject would have been best dealt with Other Clarksburg news yet operational because certain at earlier stages that were long The Planning Board voted Of Planning Meeting construction milestones had not past. unanimously February 5 to ac- By Kristen Milton yet been met to allow them. “It’s The first phase of the devel- quire a piece of property that will not fair to say it’s not working opment is approximately half help make up the future Clarks- The water quality plan for because it’s not on yet,” he said. complete, David Flanagan, presi- burg Triangle Park. Land acquisi- the next phase of Clarksburg Vil- Only two area residents dent of Elm Street Development, tion specialist Bill Gries said the lage received an unusual amount testified at the two-hour hearing, said at the February 5 hearing. approximately one-acre site at the of attention at the Montgomery but Robert Kronenberg of the Phase two will include approxi- intersection of Clarksburg Road County Planning Board this Development Review Division mately 413 acres on Ridge Road, and Spine Street would be pur- month in the wake of a report said they had received “a host which will eventually host an chased for $385,000 from trustees that revealed development as of letters and some phone calls” elementary school, several park of Clarksburg United Methodist a major threat to nearby Ten from citizens. Some residents sites, and nearly 1,700 residences Church. It is the third and final Mile Creek. Commissioner Amy were in favor of the plan while ranging from single-family property that will make up the Presley, a founding member others expressed concern about homes and townhouses to apart- Master Plan-recommended park. of the Clarksburg Town Cen- traffic, landscaping, and the loca- ment buildings. A third planned The property will be considered ter Advisory Committee, said tion of apartment buildings. The phase will include four acres of Urban Open Space under the environmental concerns were her Clarksburg Civic Association had retail, once approved. Legacy Open Space Plan, which main reason for being the only asked for the project’s hearing to Representatives for Elm aims to preserve the county’s board member to vote against be delayed based on water qual- Street stated at the hearing that resources. Board approval was the Clarksburg Village plans ity concerns. the results of the annual report unanimous. February 5. The plans themselves Elm Street attorney Bob Har- should not impact their proposal were good, she said. “I don’t but also reassured planners they know if this is the final straw that had better storm water manage- prioritize vital costs and pay- kills the stream,” Presley said. “I Equestrian ment facilities in the works than ments. think it’s my responsibility to at those producing such worry- least know we’re not doing any Improve your website. ing results. The county’s water more damage.” When the Divide your planning into quality report aimed in part at The County Council’s envi- strategic efforts (ten years addressing ways that county of- ronmental committee had begun Economy Goes ahead), tactical (two to five ficials could coordinate the final discussions on the 2007 annual years ahead), as well as im- Stage Four phase of development water quality report issued by Sour—Make mediate (this year). for the Clarksburg Master Plan. county scientists just days before Focus on volunteers and staff: Clarksburg Village was not a Lemonade the planners’ February 5 hearing. thank them, evaluate their part of Stage Four plans. “I think By Carol Rae Hansen, The report included information efficiency, and support them we are well past the point where Director, Equine Therapy As- on Ten Mile Creek’s deteriorating through education. there can really be any discussion sociates ecosystem and the threats posed on what water quality measures Refine your outreach to stu- by sediment and other runoff you might impose on applicants The economic forecast may dent and or boarder families, produced by development. In in the future,” Elm Street at- seem bleak, but instead of look- the community, board mem- spite of concerns about the re- torney Bob Harris said. “I don’t ing to the future with forebod- bers, staff, and the public. port, board members passed the want to throw them under the ing, look within to the present water quality plan and site plan Review all your files for tax bus, but we’re already on the bus to see how best to overhaul for the second phase of Clarks- compliance requirements. if you will.” your business to meet the needs of a tighter budget. Make a Consider asking vets, equine goal of achieving at least half of dentists, farriers, and other the suggestions below within suppliers of essential services three months, and you should to consider donating their dramatically increase the likeli- services. Remember your hood that you will weather this barter tax obligations. economic storm. Set up a budget plan for spac- Administration ing out energy, feed, and vet Consider using your extra costs. staff time freed up by fewer Sell or donate your surplus clients to refine your advertis- equipment, tack, and sup- ing. plies. Define your niche(s). Differ- -Continued on Page 14. entiate your program. Reduce needless costs, and February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 11 February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 12 Poolesville Area Businesses You Are Invited If you have products, bring them to sell. If you have a service to offer, bring information to inform and to build interest. If you are an organization, bring items to sell for fundraising and make the community more aware. March 14, 2009 For more information www.20837BIZNET.com 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 301.461.0554

Tidbits of the Past February 11, 1926 Three Police Blotter: Past and Present hundred sportsmen attended the By Jack Toomey annual meeting and banquet of By Jack Toomey the Montgomery County Fish to her husband. February 4, 1920 The Mont- and Game Protective Association. Present February 26, 1925 Lawrence gomery County Board of Educa- The affair was held at St. Mary’s Burdette of Boyds was found tion voted to build a new school Hall in Barnesville. January 23 Residential guilty of manslaughter. Burdette Burglary. 17000 block of Hughes for Negro students at Dickerson. February 21, 1915 Mr. and and Clarence Griffith, a farmer Road, Poolesville. Forced entry, Money was also appropriated to Mrs. Joseph H. Hoyle celebrated living in the Boyds district, nothing taken. complete the school building at their sixtieth anniversary at their became involved in an argument January 26 Robbery. CVS, Poolesville. Barnesville home. In attendance on the railroad tracks in Boyds. 19500 block of Fisher Road, Burdette pushed Griffith down a February 6, 1927 A checkers were ten sons and daughters, Poolesville. Suspect said that he steep embankment and Griffith league was formed in Montgom- forty-three grandchildren, and had a gun and demanded drugs. died of his injuries. ery County. Both Poolesville and eight great grandchildren. They The suspect was then apprehend- February 27, 1913 James Dickerson formed teams and had were presented with a large num- ed by police while running from Hughey of Barre, Pennsylvania already played some matches ber of presents. the store. See related article in was arrested and charged with against each other. In the last February 24, 1927 Silver this edition for more details. robbing Sergeant W. Rhodes of match, Poolesville defeated Spring High School defeated January 29 Theft. 19100 block the marine corps on a Baltimore Dickerson by a score of 32 games Poolesville, 29-5, in a basket- of Peachtree Road, Dickerson. and Ohio train as it passed near to 20. The games were not just ball game held at Silver Spring. February 8 House fire. A Frederick Junction. When the for the enjoyment of the players. Poolesville was only able to score farmhouse in the 21900 block of train arrived in Washington, of- Crowds gathered at Williams one field goal during the game. Beallsville Road, Barnesville was ficers found $1,300 in the pockets Store and watched the match, Poolesville’s players were Darby, heavily damaged by fire. There of Mr. Hughey which belonged to offering advice and observing Beall, Ball, Cubitt, and Willard. were no reported injuries. Sergeant Rhodes. each move. It was said they even February 27, 1925 Sheriff Clay Police responded to the fol- February 28, 1916 The large whispered to each other behind Plummer appointed Roy Bod- lowing locations in Poolesville home of David Hershey of Co- cupped hands. mer of Poolesville to the post of for the report of disorderly per- mus was destroyed by fire. It was February 7, 1924 A delega- deputy sheriff. sons: 17000 block of Hersperger said that the house was one of the tion of citizens from Poolesville Lane and the 17300 block of most impressive in the county. February 27, 1921 Twenty- appeared before the county Hoskinson Lane. It was determined that the fire five baseball lovers met at the commissioners and urged the Police investigated possible started in an overheated stove. county courthouse to discuss the completion of a road between the drug use at the following loca- One of the heaviest wind storms possibility of forming a county town and White’s Ferry. A move- tions in Poolesville: 17600 block of the year was blowing and led baseball league. It was agreed ment also was started to have of Cattail Road and the 19600 to the spread of the flames. Dam- that Rockville, Gaithersburg, Sil- a bridge constructed over the block of Fisher Avenue. age was estimated at $15,000. ver Spring, and Bethesda would Potomac River at White’s Ferry. February 29, 1932 Four be represented in the league. The persons were injured when an February 8, 1914 A smallpox sixth position would be filled by Past automobile operated by G. Walter scare was reported in the town either Poolesville or Buck Lodge of Doubs, Maryland went out of of Poolesville and outlying areas. depending on which town could February 24, 1958 A thirty- control and landed in a culvert It was reported that a case of field a team. It was agreed that year-old Boyds man was charged near Poolesville. Mr. Walter, smallpox happened on the farm play would begin on May 30 and with attempting to kill his com- his wife, and two children were of William Williams and the ill would last until Labor Day and mon law wife at a Germantown treated for their injuries by Doc- woman was a cook who had that admission to games would tavern. Police said that the man tor E. W. White at Poolesville. been brought from Washington. be twenty-five cents. was a bartender at Musser’s Tav- The Williams family was quar- ern when the woman brandished antined, and health officials were an ax handle and threatened to observing the residents of the kill him. He then shot her once. town. The woman claimed that she had only gone behind the bar to talk February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 13 Business Briefs

It’s Showtime for Local Businesses It’s been a very long time, but through the initiative and orga- special advertising opportunity for nization of Berry Thompson of advertisers in the Monocle. Now 20837BIZNET.com, area businesses advertisers in the in the most-read, will present their products and ser- most-informative, most-appreciated vices at a Business Fair at St. Peter’s newspaper in the area can have a Church on March 14, 2009. The highly-efficient online avenue to public fair is open to any business or reach area consumers. For details, organization in the Poolesville area call Rande Davis at 301-349-0070. or those owned by persons residing in the area. It is hoped that a broad Power to the People? John Speelman of Poolesville spectrum of businesses will present Hardware wants to become the first their products to offer for sale and “green” retailer in town. He has will present information on their applied for a permit to install a sixty- services to build interest. Businesses, foot wind turbine to provide electric- civic organizations, and fundraising ity for his business. More details will groups are all welcome to this event be available during a public hearing for the whole community.Already at the town hall on February 18 at a number of businesses and groups 7:30 p.m. On another electric power have scheduled demonstrations item, there have been several news- like Yoga, championship karate paper articles regarding a fifty per- demonstrations, getting a picture cent electrical rate hike of Allegheny of yourself or family as lepre- Power customers. This increase only chauns, and there will many other applies to the very small number of giveaway items, prizes, and fun. customers who chose to opt out of Want to make sure you are there? Allegheny’s rate mitigation plan. For Contact Berry at 301-461-0554 or the vast majority of customers in the [email protected]. Poolesville area, the rate increase will Monocacy Monocle and be just over eleven percent. 20837BIZNET.com Join Together for a New Advertising Opportunity The Monocacy Monocle and 20837BIZNET.com are offering a

been told that the incident was Local News sparked by the individual having a disagreement with a girlfriend and was not due to any particular Vandalism Causes reason regarding the restaurant. $5,000 Damage at The vandal did not attempt to flee the facility after the incident McDonald’s and reportedly waited for the By Rande Davis police to arrive. The owners of the restaurant and the family of the Once again, a vandal threw perpetrator are currently attempt- a brick at the west side win- ing to work out an arrangement dows of McDonald’s Restaurant to rectify the damage. in Poolesville. The windows Businesses in Poolesville specifically constructed for the have had many similar problems restaurant included a golden with vandals and attempted arches design, and the estimated burglaries including an incident replacement cost is nearly $5,000. at Poolesville Beer and Wine Due to the cost of the dam- in January that had a person or ages, felony charges have been persons apparently using a crow- placed against the individual bar–like device in an attempt to who at the time of this report break into the building during the is not named. The Monocle has early morning hours. February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 14

“PHS 2005 Graduate” Continued in the Pittsburgh Gazette by Paula A former high school football “Joe was a fantastic young man From Page 8. Reed Ward, Joe Briggs, 22, was coach agreed. Fred Swick, who and a hard worker,” said his coach squad. shot after a three-hour standoff in was an assistant coach during Mr. at Poolesville, Larry Hurd, Jr. He “I was an offensive coach at Greensburg. Briggs’s senior year at Poolesville described Mr. Briggs as a pleasure that time, and Joe Briggs played on A friend yesterday described High School in Maryland, said he to coach and said he always arrived defense, so I can’t really say I knew the criminal justice major as fun- was surprised by what happened at practice well-prepared. “He had too much about him,” Dolinski loving and carefree. “He could yesterday. “I never would have good size, and he had great heart,” said. He was nevertheless disturbed make anybody’s bad day turn out thought that of him,” Mr. Swick Mr. Hurd said. “Nobody was go- by the shooting. “Just being a mem- better just by smiling or asking how said. ing to beat Joe at heart.” ber of this community, my heart is they were,” said Cristina Tiano, a Mr. Briggs was a defensive Mr. Briggs transferred to broken over this event,” Dolinski junior at Seton Hill. lineman at Poolesville his senior Poolesville in his senior year from said. “I offer my condolences and A few weeks ago, she had year and was named all-Montgom- a Catholic high school, Mr. Swick deepest sympathies to his family, hung out with Mr. Briggs, who ery County by the Washington Post said. his friends . . . his mom. I also offer told her he wanted to join the state for the 2004-2005 season. my sympathy to the law enforce- police. She said she didn’t know ment community because I know him to be depressed or upset about it wasn’t an easy situation for them anything. “I don’t think he would “Arthur Virts” Continued From or the John Poole General Store to have to make the decision they ever do anything to anybody,” she Page 9. museum in Poolesville. made.” According to another report said. passed away last year, too late Note: The other “friends” to see the book completed. As contributing to the book are: “When the Economy Goes Sour” tions of worthy or neglected a leader in the committee which Minnie Turner Tyler, Bernice Continued From 10. animals. was formed to help publish the Christine Turner Clipper, Edna book, Mr. Baker wrote, “It is our Mae Luckett Prather, Ella Wims Facilities Consider reducing lesson hope to have a book printed, with Smith, Mae Louise Hebron, Focus on landscaping: plant program costs after reviewing stories and pictures, which reflect Betty Hawkins, and Flora Crouse perennial flowers and bushes, efficiency: consider closing for the humor, history, and enduring Gilliam. Other Members of the edge beds, put up mini-fences the winter, or certain hours quality of this small town.” Mr. book organizing committee are to redirect traffic, and plant and days per week; only use Baker would be pleased; Boyds: A Hal Baker, Ginger Gibson, Flora grass seed. daylight hours to reduce energy use. Character Study meets all its ob- Gilliam, Betty Hawkings, Edna Make your entrance a deal jectives. Copies of the book can be Reffit, and Keith Vail. Consider offering your maker: repaint, repair, restore. obtained by calling 301-972-0161 equines for safe free boarding Design or refine your site plan. options when your program Ask for pro bono assistance does not operate. Be careful from architects, engineers, or about all board and use situa- public community planners. tions, have a concrete contract, Design or refine your facilities and check up on those ani- for greater efficiency. mals at least monthly for their Get a free green energy audit safety. through your supplier or your Programs city, county, or state. Develop new games and activi- Reduce costs through greater ties. efficiencies in electricity use, Re-evaluate your program- heating/cooling, and space ming, analyzing it for cost-ef- allocation, and take advantage fectiveness. Quantify your unit of rebates from producers, costs per type of programming, county, and state. and expand where and when Reduce your unit costs by your unit costs are lowest. space-sharing strategies: coor- dinate animal use, arena use, Add new programs only classroom use, etc., with public when they are cost effective, stables, equine training firms easily achievable, and are likely or instructors, vet groups, res- to enhance the bottom line cues, schools, churches, other through cost/benefit analyses. agencies. Consider reducing or Keep your herd as small as eliminating programs that no possible, but respect animal- longer benefit the bottom line, use safeguards on permissible but only if their animal and hu- daily use time per animal (i.e. man social and business cost is a maximum of three hours at first evaluated. a time, over a maximum of six Good luck. Enjoy your lemonade hours per day), while saving effort. space for charitable adop- February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 15

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“Town Meeting” Continued From and because of the extensive leg Page 6. Local News and pelvis injuries experienced to maintain balanced budgets. by the driver. He also pointed out that the Officer Injured in Car After removal, Officer Heit- estimated cost of the project to field was taken by helicopter to the town given by Mr. Strong Accident Suburban Hospital for emer- did not include outside grants By Rande Davis gency care and then flown to the that will be sought. The details Baltimore Shock Trauma Center of the plan are available for An automobile accident on (BSTC). He is reported to be in viewing at town hall. Sunday morning, February 8, critical condition but recovering In other matters, Mr. Strong in Poolesville severely injured at the trauma center. The police Rescue personnel work to save the was tasked to estimate the costs a Montgomery County police department expressed its deep driver of the wrecked car. of converting the private septic officer. Officer Steven Heitfield, appreciation for the excellent systems remaining in the town assigned to the 1st District, had response by the county’s fire and entered the police academy on to public sewer. The purpose of He was traveling south on Route rescue emergency responders as July 14, 2008 and graduated from the commissioners’ request was 109 toward Poolesville when the well as for the medical care given the academy this past January to better understand the scope car hit the raised curbing on the to Officer Heitfield at Suburban and is currently in field training. of the project and to determine west side of the road causing the and BSTC. when such conversion might car to spin into a tree on the east better be done when other in- pumped out prior to collaps- side of the road. The driver was frastructure changes are made so ing the tank to prevent leakage pinned in the car, conscious, but as to ultimately reduce the cost of sewage into the ground. with severe lower body of the conversion to the town. With Mr. Hoewing and injuries as the emergen- Mr. Strong reported that there Mr. Yeatts out of town on busi- cy rescue team arrived. were twenty-two private wells ness, the three commissioners Using “jaws of life” and septic systems in the town did vote unanimously for a St. equipment to cut open and that the total cost would Peter’s bond reduction. The the vehicle, the extrac- be $190,000. Mr. Klobukowski bond is held by the church tion was lengthy and voiced concern about the public until specific infrastructure difficult both because of health safety issues when septic requirements are made in the damage to the car systems are closed down, but Mr. conjunction with the building Strong assured him that county of the new community and health department inspectors educational facility at St. Peter’s. witness each closing and that all contents in the septic systems are Marketplace

Subscribe to the Monocacy Monocle $31.80 per year The Monocacy Monocle P.O. Box 372 Barnesville, MD 20838 [email protected] February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 17 out. For example, if the thrower Poor Mary, she needed three. Well, has forty points left, he can win Local News poor Steve, Mary hit all three. by hitting 20 twice or by throwing If you are at Cugini’s during one dart into 20 and two into 10. play and you hear someone letting To start play in 301, the thrower Darts: Having out a yell you can hear all the way must first hit any double number. to Selby’s, that would be newcomer The last game, 501 is similar to 301 Fun While Tim Flynn. We have been warned except the player does not have to not to let Tim give you a high five “double in.” Making Your when this happens unless you are Cugini’s dart throwers: Back row: The perfect score for a three- looking for a broken arm. Ed Dorosa, Steve Hawkins Sr., dart score is 180 points by hitting Point This year’s first place winner By Rande Davis Louis Brooks (Sub), Les Richey, the triple 20 (colored center ring) was Steve Hawkins, Sr., and three Dorsett Hickey, Larry Neil, Jr., Steve with all three darts, which is very competitors tied for second: Mary Throwing the bull can be Hawkins, Jr., Doug Baile. Front Row: rare. One of the most amazing feats Lynch, Steve Hawkins, Jr., and found in every place that serves Tim Flynn, Jack Broadwater, Kelly Steve Hawkins observed was in a Larry Neal, Jr. Don’t worry, Tim, beer. At Cugini’s they have Nichlos (Sub), Bill Lynch (Hiding), match against Mary Lynch when there is always next year. something else altogether: Darts. Mary Lynch, Rodger Strippey. Not all he needed to win was one bull. Poolesville’s dart league com- pictured: Larry Neal, Sr. petes in a twelve-week season in the party room every Wednes- occasion, they also compete at other day evening. The team just ended venues like the Buckeystown Pub its season with its annual tourna- or Krug’s in Frederick. ment including a lot of darts and a The Poolesville league plays lot more bull, so we heard. four kinds of darts: Burma, Cricket, League president, Steve 301, and 501. In Burma, the winner Hawkins, recently gave the Mon- must hit numbers combing to a ocle the lowdown on the group. score of forty-three. Cricket requires The league started ten years ago at hitting the numbers 20 to 15 and Potomac Valley Lodge with only bulls three times each. The third one dart board and light-bantered game, 301, gets its name from each play. Soon it grew to six dart boards player starting with a score of 301 and twenty-four throwers, formal- and then reducing that number izing into a competitive league. On by the scores hit until doubling February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 18 Things To Do at 7:00 p.m. St. Mary’s Pavilion a raucous bit of raunch. He is Tickets: $10.00 – Seniors/students: in Barnesville, 18230 Barnes- electrifying.” Tickets range from $8.00 ville Road. Call Ron Magaha at $20.00 to $30.00. 8:00 p.m. (Sunday: 2:00 p.m.) For continual updates, visit: 301-349-5092 for tickets—$15 in www.monocacymonocle.com advance and $20 at Door. February 26 March 4 Poolesville Baptist Church The Master Gardeners of Montgom- Art League Meeting The Poolesville Library offers Guest Speaker: Conrad Mbewe ery County The Art League of Germantown AARP Tax Preparation Assis- Hailed as Spurgeon of South Annual Mini-Conference will meet at 7:15 p.m. in the Gal- tance for seniors each Friday Africa, 6:30 Montgomery County Coopera- lery at the BlackRock Center for through April 10, 2009. Call 240- the Arts, 12901 Town Commons tive Extension Poolesville Library 277-2577 for an appointment. Drive, Germantown. After ALOG 18410 Muncaster Road, Derwood Three to Sixes has a brief business meeting, a Clarksburg Sports Association 8:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Stories, fingerplay, and music guest speaker will make a pre- Spring Baseball and Lacrosse For registration information: 10:30 a.m. Registrations http://montgomery.umd.edu sentation. Meetings are free and open to the public. For updates Join CSA baseball and lacrosse in click on Master Gardeners March 1 please visit www.alog.org. celebrating another great season 202-549-4942 Nurture Your Marriage – See a serving the greater Clarksburg Movie Together March 5 community. All experience levels BlackRock Center for the Arts Fireproof Hairspray Weinberg Center are welcome. The last day for Good Deale – Bluegrass Band Poolesville Presbyterian Church Students $4.00/Adults $6.00 discounted baseball registration Tickets: $25.00 to $30.00 6:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. 7:00 p.m. is February 28. Late baseball reg- www.blackrockcenter.org RSVP for childcare by e-mailing: istration will occur from March 8:00 p.m. [email protected] March 6 1 until March 15. Late lacrosse Poolesville Elementary School February 22 registration will continue until March 4 to 7 Movie Night, 7:30 p.m. Quartet San Francisco February 28 with a $30 late fee. The Who’s Tommy Grammy nominees for their last For more information or to regis- The Who’s classic rock opera March 7 two releases and winners of the ter, visit www.CSAsports.org. comes to the stage in a high-en- Project Wild Workshop International Tango competi- ergy, one-of-a-kind spectacular The Bethesda-Chevy Chase Chap- February 13 to March 7 tion, these violinists, violist, and experience. ter of the Izaak Walton League 8th Annual International cellist are reshaping the world of Montgomery Performing Arts of America announces Project Photography Competition chamber music. Don’t miss this Center The Fraser Gallery is pleased to groundbreaking concert at the 51 Mannakee St. – Rockville -Continued on Page 19. present a group exhibition by Weinberg Center for the Arts. finalists of the 8th Annual Inter- Ticket prices are $20.00 in ad- national Photography Competi- vance and $25.00 at the door. For tion. The Fraser Gallery received more information, visit www. over 350 entries from 116 local, weinbergcenter.org or call 301- national, and international pho- 600-2828. tographers; twenty-six images by nineteen photographers were February 23 selected. Washington, D.C. area Commissioners of Poolesville photographers include: Vincent Town Hall Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Carney, Baltimore, Chris Dame, Poolesville Library Rockville, Alain Debrabant, Book Discussion Group Silver Spring, Ed Kirkpatrick, 7:00 p.m. Dickerson, and Huguette Roe, Falls Church. February 25 CEDC Meeting February 21 Poolesville Town Hall CEDC’s Saturday Night at the 7:30 p.m. Cinema, PHS Auditorium David Bromberg returns to the Indiana Jones: Kingdom of the Weinberg Center Crystal Skull David Bromberg returns to the Free- Canned Food Donation for Weinberg Center stage with WUMCO,Doors: 7:00 p.m. special guests the Angel Band Showtime: 7:30 p.m. for one night on February 28 at St. Mary’s Basket Bingo 8:00 p.m. The New York Times Featuring Longaberger Baskets says that, “He has such control and Vera Bradley Handbags. of his audience that he can, at Sponsored by the St. Mary’s Holy one moment, hold it in his hand Name Society. Filled baskets, with a tender, touching yet funny door prizes and raffles. Food and anecdotal song and then set it refreshments available. Doors romping and stomping with open at 5:00 p.m.; bingo starts February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 19 Youth Sports The letter also provided quotes have sent to a state champion- School News from enrolled students, who said ship in a very long time. Every things like, “I wouldn’t graduate Poolesville Girls, guy who qualified for states without this class;” and “Some (finished in the top four) has Whatever It Takes people really need the extra help Clarksburg Boys a very good shot at placing in By Kristen Milton and extra push, and it’s not fair for Finish 2nd in the top eight overall in their us to get it taken away when we respective events.” Poolesville As the school system deals really need it.” Regional Track Meets qualified two boys in three with challenging economic times, Principal Deena Levine said in By Jeff Stuart events plus two relays and a program to help struggling a February 2 email that she remains seven girls in eight events plus students at Poolesville High School dedicated to providing support for An impressive streak of three relays. may face cuts—a prospect that students who need it. While this seven consecutive 1A West Improving on a third concerns some local officials and year’s WIT students have benefited Region titles came to end for the place finish a year ago, the members of the school commu- from a small, six-to-one student/ Poolesville Indoor Track girls’ Clarkburg Indoor Track boys’ nity. “They’ve got to deal with the teacher ratio in its four classes, squad on January 31 at Hag- squad, placed second in the 2A economic reality of the existing for next year, Levine wrote, “The erstown Community College. West Regional in Hagerstown budget…without neglecting the same model may be in place with The Falcons, with 104 points, Community College on Febru- needs and aspirations of cluster stu- larger numbers, i.e., twelve students finished second to last season’s ary 7 with 60 points. Winters dents who are not in the [magnet] per teacher or…we may move in runner up, Williamsport (139). Mill finished first with 106. program,” said Poolesville commis- another direction.” Levine did not The Poolesville Boys, with forty The Coyote girls’ team also sioner Jerry Klobukowski, long a respond to requests for comment points, finished fifth in an eight- improved, finishing seventh a liaison to area schools. for this article. team field, behind champion year ago and fifth this year with Thirty-three students at Klobukowski pointed out that Smithsburg, who had ninety-nine 36 points. Middletown finished Poolesville High School cur- the students enrolled in the WIT points. “The boys doubled their first with 106 points. rently participate in the Whatever program are all local residents, point total from last year,” said it Takes (WIT) alternative program, not those who have transferred head coach in which students spend a class to Poolesville High for its magnet Michael period with a program coordinator programs or other unique offerings. Trumbull, who provides tutoring, organiza- “This is not to be an elitist school,” “and were tional help, and help with admin- he said. “[The school system] has in the top istrative tasks such as scheduling assured us they would not neglect five in the changes among other things. In the the non-magnet students.” Unless region, one past, each school has received one teachers are willing and able to of our team person to support such programs; provide extra support for those who goals. I also but the new operating budget will would have benefited from WIT, wouldn’t allocate staffing based on school Klobukowski said, “To me this may doubt if this enrollment. For a small school like be a neglect.” Klobukowski hopes to is the most Poolesville, that will mean changes. see the community express support athletes we “Whenever you have a change for the program and fellow commis- in staffing, you look at what you’re “Things to Do” Continued From March 14 sioner Jim Brown, whose son has currently doing to make sure you Page 18. Poolesville Business Fair participated in WIT, has suggested are benefiting the most students,” St. Peter’s Church the commissioners weigh in as well cluster coordinator Sarah Defnet Wild Program, sponsored by the Vendors/Prizes/Entertainment with a letter to the school board. said. “That honest look at what is Maryland Department of Natural 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Defnet said typical high school Resources at the chapter’s club- going on is a good thing…I think teachers teach five of the day’s it’s healthy.” However, Defnet said, house, 20601 West Willard Road, March 14 and March 15 seven periods. That would allow for it is also natural that change would Poolesville, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 St. Patrick’s Day Weekend at Sug- some teachers to be employed help- concern those who appreciate the p.m. Project Wild was established arloaf Mountain Vineyard ing WIT students. “Does that dilute current program. in 1983 and is the nation’s lon- On Saturday, March 14 and the program? It could,” she said. In a January 16 letter in sup- gest-standing wildlife education Sunday, March 15, from 12:00 “You could also take the approach port of WIT, school counselors said program, emphasizing wildlife p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Cead Mile that having more people involved Poolesville’s full-time coordinator for grades K-12. It has been given Failte! Get an early start to the will be good for the program.” The was kept busy, and students were throughout Maryland in a variety “wearin’ of the green.” While teachers may be able to bring more able to stay in their local school of settings, including schools, we will not have green beer, enthusiasm and a variety of skills to rather than traveling to schools nature centers, zoos, museums we will have Irish cheese, Irish the students, Defnet said. where more intensive support and scout facilities. The program brown soda bread, and the The school system’s operating programs are available. “Without is free and lunch will be provided sweet Celtic tones of singer budget is still going through the this program,” the four-member at no charge. Everyone must and musician Betsy O’Malley, approval process, Defnet said. In counseling department wrote, “we pre-register by calling Rogers who will serenade with some addition, Poolesville will not know fear that we would be faced with a Sears at 301-972-8942 or emailing of your favorite Irish and its enrollment numbers, and thus its failure to help some of our needi- him at [email protected]. For American tunes. Come join us. exact alternative program staffing, est students who are not afforded more information about the B-CC Slainte. until the registration period ends in Chapter, visit www. bcciwla.org. the support of students who have early spring, she said. Individualized Education Plans.” February 20, 2009 The Monocacy Monocle Page 20