News for Calvert County Government Employees

Volume IV, Issue XIMay 24, 2013

Seeking Calvert’s Most ‘Beautiful’

People for Volunteer Awards

Nominations are now being accepted for the annual Calvert You Are Beautiful

awards program. Do you know a volunteer

who helps improve the quality of life

for Calvert County citizens and visitors?

Nominees must be Calvert County

residents. Nomination forms are available at

ecalvert.com or by calling the Department of Economic

Development at 410-535-4583.

All nominees will be honored at a commissioners-

sponsored ceremony Sept. 17.

Nominations must be received by July 12.

Employee Recognition Committee Awards College Scholarships

Above, Mark Willis of the Employee Recognition Committee talks to the commissioners about

scholarship winner Emily Wilson. At left are Wilson, John Bauer and Jules Lucas.

The Employee Recognition Committee recently chose the winners of its annual college scholarship, which is given to high school seniors whose parents work for Calvert County Government and one high school senior who is already a county employee. The winners appeared before the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday, May 14.

John Bauer, the son of Kathie Bauer from the Department of Technology Services, was the first-place winner. A student at Huntingtown High Schoool, John plans to attend the University of Maryland. He received a $1,000 scholarship.

Jules Lucas, the son of Associate County Attorney Pam Lucas, was the second-place winner. A student at Huntingtown High School, Jules plans to attend Central Connecticut State University. He received a $500 scholarship.

The employee winner was Emily Wilson. Emily works at the Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center and attended Huntingtown High School. She will attend Utah Valley University.

“These students have had an exemplary high school career and we are pleased to have the opportunity to recognize them publicly,” ERC Chairperson Kim Gott wrote in a memorandum to the commissioners.

An impartial panel of five employees reviewed a total of five applications for the scholarships.

Jules Lucas shakes hands with members of the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners.

ON TAP Calvert Marine MuseumSea Squirts - Who’s My Momma?Tuesday, June 11 (10-10:30 a.m.)Thursday, June 13 (10-10:30 a.m.)

For ages 18 months to 3 years. Bubbles and Squeak are funny names, but if you knew our otters, you’d know the names fit. Come learn more about these playful river otters at this drop-in program. It is free and open to the public. Preregistration is suggested. To register call 410-326-2042, ext. 41.

Luncheon Social CruiseSaturday, June 1(11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.)

Bring a friend or two along and enjoy a gourmet lunch on board the Wm. B. Tennison. Choice of veggie wrap, chicken salad or roast beef sandwiches, sides, drinks and dessert. Cost is $25 per person. Registration required by May 29. Call 410-326-2042, ext. 41.

First Free FridayFriday, June 7 (5-8 p.m.)

The museum is open and free to the public from 5 to 8 p.m. Calvert Dance Band will perform on the outdoor stage starting at 6:30 p.m. Bring a folding chair and summer picnic and enjoy the fun. The galleries and Drum Point Lighthouse are open with trained interpreters on hand to answer questions. Free 30-minute cruises on the Wm. B. Tennison are available, sponsored by Dennis and Jan Biennas and M&T Bank.

At right, Mike Lewis Sr., a firefighter at Dunkirk Volunteer Fire Department, spikes the ball for a point during a volleyball game at the Fire, Rescue, EMS Volunteer Appreciation Day on May 19 at the Calvert County Fairgrounds. Below right, Jason Sharpe of the Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Department knocks the ball over the net.Volunteer emergency workers and their families were treated to a day of moon bounces, pony rides and a buffet lunch as a small token of appreciation for the hours of time volunteers dedicate to county residents. Prizes were raffled off, including a large-screen TV donated by Constellation, plus pool and golf course passes.

County Shows Appreciation to Volunteer Firefighters, Rescue Personnel

Take a Cruise With Your Colleagues

The ERC is sponsoring a two-hour cruise aboard the Wm. B. Tennison on Saturday, July 13. The cruise is free and open to Calvert County employees and one adult guest each. Get a group together from your office, pack some food and drink and enjoy a relaxing cruise around Solomons.

Boarding will begin at 6 p.m. at the Calvert Marine Museum and the boat departs promptly at 6:30 p.m. Reservations are required.

To make reservations please contact Kim Gott by calling extension 2638 or emailing gottkr@co.cal.md.us.

Save the Date for the Calvert County Employees Fall Feast!Mark your calendar for the ERC-sponsored Fall Feast on Oct. 5 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge on Dares Beach Road.

The event is open to Calvert County employees and one guest each. The cost is $20 per person with a cash bar.

Stay tuned for menu and entertainment details. You don’t want to miss this!

Chesapeake Beach Stars & Stripes FestivalSaturday, May 25 (10 a.m.)-Monday, May 27 (noon)Kellams Field Behind Town Hall off Bayside Road, Chesapeake Beach

This community festival gives us time to reflect on those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so we may continue to experience the freedom and independence we have today. Our goal is to ensure our fallen heroes will never be forgotten! There are many events and learning experiences for the children.

Rock the Dock Summer Concert SeriesSaturdays, June 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 (6:30-10:45 p.m.)Sundays, June 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 (4-8 p.m.)Wednesdays, June 5, 12, 19 and 26 (7-9:45 p.m.)Thursdays, June 6, 13, 20 and 27 (7-9:45 p.m.)Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa

Enjoy an evening of live music at the waterfront Boardwalk Café.

Children’s Day on the FarmSunday, June 2 (11 a.m.-5 p.m.)Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

Children of all ages are invited to this celebration of Southern Maryland’s rich agricultural heritage. Enjoy new attractions as well as old favorites, like the antique tractor parade. This event includes demonstrations, hands-on activities, rides, games, live entertainment, food and beverages. Great family fun! A small fee is charged for some activities.

North Beach House and Garden Tour and Art ShowSunday, June 2 (1-5 p.m.)The Town of North Beach

The purpose of the tour is to share the architecture, garden designs and lifestyles of “North Beachers” and promote tourism. The tour includes about eight houses, public buildings and refreshment stops. The guided tour and brochure are $10.

Visit Port Republic School #7Sundays, June 2, 9, 16 and 23 (2-4 p.m.)Christ Church

This original schoolhouse was built on its present site circa 1868 and opened for children, grades 1-7, of families who lived in the Port Republic area. It remained in continuous use until the consolidation of schools in 1932. The schoolhouse suffered the ravages of time until

1976 when it was restored by the Calvert County Retired Teachers Association as a bicentennial project. Today groups of school children spend the day recreating a one-room school experience, including a walk through the woods to school and lessons taught as they would have been at the turn of the 20th century.

Around Town ... Calvert County Events Calendar

For more events, visit www.choosecalvert.com.

M I L E S T O N E SPromotionsJessica M. LundPermit Technician II, Inspections & Permits

DepartureMarguerite L. HangliterCompactor Operator (Part Time), Solid Waste

Let’s work together to fix common mistakes in our writing. Email us at employeenews@co.cal.md.us with suggestions for future tidbits. Use these tips in your everyday life, not just in communication with coworkers and constituents, and they’ll become habit.

Modifiers - Location is key with modifiers, those words or phrases that describe something in your sentence. Put them in the wrong spot and the sentence is unclear or, worse, inaccurate. Here are some common problems.

Dangling Modifiers - You’ll run into this when you start a sentence with a phrase. Make sure the beginning phrase matches the subject of the sentence. “Running across the street, the bus hit her.” (The bus can’t run.) “The bus hit the girl as she was running across the street.”

Misplaced Modifiers - “The city manager was told the contract had been awarded by the mayor.” Did the mayor award the contract or did she tell the city manager about the contract? Using passive voice (the city manager was told)contributes to this problem. A better sentence is “The mayor told the city manager that the city got the contract.”

Squinting Modifiers - A word, usually an adverb, that a reader thinks can describe more than one word. “Those who lie often are found out.” Is it those who lie often or are they often found out? Location in the sentence will tell the reader which way is accurate. Other adverbs that will give you this trouble are only, just, nearly and barely.

WRITING TIDBITS Working Together to Fix Common Mistakes in Our Writing

Job OpeningsInformation on job openings is available on the county website or by calling the Personnel Office at extension 2359.

Position (Seasonal/Hourly) Closing DatePark Ranger, Natural Resources 06/05/13

Yard Sale CanceledThe yard sale scheduled for Saturday, June 1, at the Calvert Pines Senior Center has been canceled.

AARP Driver Safety ClassThursday, June 6 (9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.)Calvert Pines Senior Center

Fee for AARP members is $12; $14 for nonmembers. Registration and payment are due prior to the class. To register call 410-535-4606.

Father’s Day Classic Car ShowFriday, June 14 (5-7:30 p.m.)Calvert Pines Senior Center

Do you own a classic car or are you a classic car enthusiast? This event is for you! Register to show off your classic car or come to view them. It is free and open to the public. Food and drink will be available to purchase. Music will be performed by Chris Tenney and the River Side South Bluegrass Band from 5-7 p.m. For more information call 410-535-4606.

IN BRIEF Office on Aging

FAMILY FUN Parks and Recreation

Young Athletes Level ITuesdays, May 28-June 18 (5-5:45 p.m.)

Southern Community Center

Young Athletes is an innovative sports play program designed to introduce children ages 2-4 with disabilities to the world of sports. The activities will consist of the foundation skills of running, jumping, catching, throwing and kicking. Free.

Young Athletes Level IITuesdays, May 28-June 18 (5-5:45 p.m.)Southern Community Center

Level II is for children ages 4-7 with disabilities, designed to apply the skills learned in Level I and to increase skills and knowledge of specific sports. Free.

Tiny Tot Talent ShowWednesday, May 29 (10-10:45 a.m.)Mt. Hope Community Center

Bring your little ones for a fun, non-competitive way to show off our little shining stars! All participants will receive a certificate and prize! For ages 1-5. $3 per participant.

Bring on Summer!Friday, May 31 (6:30-9:30 p.m.)Mt. Hope Community Center

Are you ready for those warm, sunny days to be upon us? We will have water games for all ages (bring your bathing suit and towel), a moon bounce, bingo, prizes, snacks and a one-of-a-kind show for all ages! Don’t miss this “sun-sational” event! Free. For more information call 410-257-6770.

Little Tykes With Big WheelsFriday, May 31 (10:30-11:15 a.m.)Cove Point Park

Bring your favorite riding toy and gear up for the big race! Everyone will get a reward for crossing the finish line! Meet in the parking lot at Cove Point Park near the new playground. For ages 2½-5. Free.

Summer Coloring ContestJune 1-15 (9 a.m.-9 p.m.)Southern Community Center

A crayons-only coloring contest for ages 2-12. Participants may pick up the coloring picture at the center Monday through Saturday. Each should color his or her own picture. Free.

Senior Dance WeekMonday-Friday, June 3-7 (10:30-11:30 a.m.)Northeast Community Center

Seniors, come see how good it feels to dance for an hour a day. Free class includes folk dances and expressive dance. No experience necessary. For ages 50 and older. Free.

Family Board Games Fridays, June 7-Aug. 30 (6-8:30 p.m.)Mt. Hope Community Center

Enjoy a fun way for families to spend some time together. We have all types of fun board games and playing cards just waiting for your family to stop in and play! For all ages. Free.

Wii BowlFriday, June 7 (6:30-8:30 p.m.)Northeast Community Center

Do you bowl? Come out and show off your Wii bowling skills. There will be a qualifying round and then the championship game. For ages 9-12. Free.

Father and Son Camp OutFriday, Saturday, June 7-8 (6:30 p.m.-7 a.m.)Southern Community Center

There will be games, marshmallow/hot dog roasting, music, scavenger hunt and limbo contests under the stars. Breakfast will highlight this event. For ages 4 and older. Cost is $5 per person.

Casting Kids! Fishing DerbySaturday, June 8 (8:30-10:30 a.m.)Hance Property

A morning of fishing fun at Thomas Hance Pond! Bait and lunch will be provided for each participant. Please bring your own rod and reel. Check-in from 8-8:30 a.m. An adult must accompany all children. Preregistration is required. For ages 5-16. $7 per person. To register call 410-535-1600, ext. 2649.

DISCOVERING NATURE Natural Resources

BATTLE CREEK CYPRESS SWAMPNature Puppet Playtime - For children 18 months to 5 years. This program meets the first Monday of the month and introduces children to the natural world with puppets, stories and exploration. Reservations are required. Free for BCNES members; $8 per family for nonmembers. Adult participation is required.

Wonderful WaterMonday, June 3 (10-11 a.m.)

We can’t survive without water. We use it every day in so many ways - drinking and cleaning, painting and swimming. How do animals use water? Come find out more about water through playing and puppets. Dress in clothes that can get wet and dirty and be ready to play in the water.

Nature Tykes - For ages 18 months to 3 years. This half-hour discovery program allows the child to experience nature with a parent through the use of senses and motion. Reservations are required. Free for BCNES members; $8 per family for nonmembers. Adult participation is required.

BugsThursday, June 6 (10-10:30 a.m.)

Have you ever counted how many legs a bug has? It’s six! We will hear from the puppets about where bugs live, what they eat and how they move. Then we’ll go out on our own bug hunt and end with a song and dance.

Call 410-535-5327, email CypressSwamp@co.cal.md.us or visit www.calvertparks.org.

KINGS LANDING PARKKayak Trip - Participants must be at least 9 years old to accompany an adult in a double kayak and at least 12 years old to ride in a single kayak. Those under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations and payment are required in advance. Fee is $10 for BCNES members per person and $20 per person for nonmembers. To register call 410-535-5327.

Sunday, June 2 (9:30-11:30 a.m.)

Explore the fascinating world of Kings Landing Park by kayak. We will meet in the parking lot by the pool.

FLAG PONDS NATURE PARKNature’s Explorers - For ages 6 to 9. These programs allow students to investigate firsthand the life found in and around our area. Free for BCNES members; $8 per family for nonmembers. Reservations are required. Adult participation is encouraged but not required. To register call 410-535-5327.

Blue CrabsSunday, June 2 (2-3:30 p.m.)

Join a naturalist at the beach where we will use a seine net to capture and release blue crabs and other small animals that seek refuge near the shore. A bathing suit, water shoes, towel and sunscreen are recommended. Parents, please stay and join in the fun.

RCA 55-inch Rear Projection TV, $250/OBO; RCA 20-inch TV, make offer.Tim Hepler, Chesapeake Hills Golf Course, heplerta@co.cal.md.us or 410-326-6094.

1966 Dodge Polara Station Wagon, $6,000. New tires and new paint. Drive home. Possible discount for county employee.Tim Scheirer, Calvert Marine Museum, scheirte@co.cal.md.us or 410-326-2042, ext. 30.

Send your Trading Post items to employeenews@co.cal.md.us.Please note that all items will be posted for two consecutive newsletters only.