COMMUNITY

Around Town

Check here often for area events sponsored by our community's non-profit organizations.

Submit your upcoming event to SMECO’s Around Town calendar.

Ongoing Events

Breast Cancer Support Group

Sponsored by Southern Maryland Hospital

Colony South Hotel and Conference Center, Clinton

Third Monday of each month, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

For information, call 301-877-4278.

St. Mary’s County Camera Club

First, second, and third Wednesday of each month, September through June

Patuxent River Naval Air Museum

Every month brings a new informative lecture or workshop topic and a photo competition. Membership ($20 individual, $30 family) is required to enter competitions, but guests are welcome to attend all meetings.

Call 301-872-5595 or visit www.smccc.org for more information.

Free English Lessons/Clases de ingles gratis

Sponsored by the Hispanic ministry at Southern Calvert Baptist Church/Ministerio de Amor en Cristo

Wednesdays/Miercoles, 6 p.m.

Southern Calvert Baptist Church, Lusby

On-going, open to the tri-county area.

For more information call 410-326-1907.

Mechanicsville Optimists

The Mechanicsville Optimist Club meets on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 7 p.m. at Copsey's Seafood Restaruant in Mechanicsville. The group's objective is "Bringing Out the Best in Kids" and doing its part through community service programs. For more information about becoming a member, contact Cindy Dixon at 301-472-4027 or by .

Cruise in the Southside

The Brandywine Volunteer Fire Department hosts classic and custom cars on the first Friday of each month from April to September. The event is from 6 to 9 p.m. and featured food and oldies music. Admission is by donation. Proceeds will benefit the new rescue engine fund. For more information, call Ernie Daniels at 301-372-8507 or .

Job's Daughters

The International Order of Job's Daughters, Bethel #24, Indian Head, is a youth organization for girls age 9 to 20. It is all about fun, friendship, and teamwork. For information about volunteering, contact Lisa Frum at 301-743-9288.

Volunteer Opportunities

Habitat for Humanity Volunteers

Volunteers are needed to help in the Patuxent Habitat for Humanity office a few hours a week. Training will be provided. Also, volunteers are needed to start up a Public Relations Committee.

For information, call 301-863-6227 or 1-877-37-BUILD.

Social Services Volunteers

Charles County Department of Social Services is seeking volunteers to assist with administrative and direct client contact activities. For information, call 301-392-6620 or .

Hospital Volunteers

The Civista Health Auxiliary, Inc. is in search of volunteers for the Civista Medical Center snack bar. For information, call 301-609-4129.

Safe Harbor Volunteers Needed

Individual and community donations of money, time, and/or other goods are needed.

Admission: FREE training. Flexible hours.

Safe Harbor, Calvert County

For information or an application call 410-535-5400 or 301-855-1353, ext. 344.

Crisis Intervention Center Volunteers Needed for Health Outreach and Prevention Activities

Calvert County Health Department

All ages and all skill levels welcome.

For information or an application call 410-535-5400 or 301-855-1353.

Advocates Needed

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate Program) of St. Mary's and Charles counties is seeking volunteers to represent abused and neglected children in juvenile court proceedings. No special background or knowledge is required - only caring, common sense, and commitment. CASA also needs volunteers to assist in recruiting, fundraising, and public relations. For information, call 301-475-6667.

Volunteers, Board Members Sought

Charles County Children's Aid Society, a non-profit agency in Charles County for 73 years is looking for volunteers and board members. Ideal board members would be compassionate and understanding to families who are struggling, able to commit two hours a month, attend bi-monthly meetings and assist with various fund-raisers. Interested candidates can call 301 645-1561 and request an application packet.

Reach Out - Mentor a Young Person in Charles County

Call the Center for Children at 301-609-9887.

SPCA Foster Homes, Volunteers, and Donations Urgently Needed

Sponsored by Lucky Ones SPCA (A no-kill animal organization serving all those who need their services.)

30450 Potomac Way, Charlotte Hall

For information call 301-884-2850.

Public Health Volunteers Wanted

Calvert County Health Department

All ages and all skill level welcome.

For information or an application call 410-535-5400 or 301-855-1353, ext. 344.

Learn to Read/Volunteer to Teach Others

If you know an adult (18 years or over) who needs help with reading, spelling or basic math, contact the Charles County Literacy Council for help. If you would like to become a Literacy Council volunteer or would like more information, call 301-870-5974 or .

 

Meal Delivery Volunteers

The Charles County Cooperative Ministry on Aging, Inc. (CMA), a non-profit organizaton in Charles County, is seeking dependable, responsible volunteer drivers to deliver a hot, nutritious meal 5 days a week, excluding holidays, to the senior population of Charles County. CMA is also in need of dependable board members who are able to commit to two hours bimonthly to attend board meetings and to assist in fund-raisers for the organization. Interested candidates for either a volunteer driver or volunteer board member or both, please call 301-392-6325 for further information.

Humane Society Volunteers

The Humane Society of Charles County needs volunteers daily from 8 to 11 a.m. and from 4 to 6:30 p.m. for cleaning, feeding and other various duties. Please call, come by, or fill-out a volunteer enrollment form online at www.humanesocietycc.org. The group also need computer support services to help update and maintain its Web site and shelter server. Please fill out the e-mail form on the group's Web site to the attention of John Mader, webmaster.

 


Monday, October 6

Drive-Thru Fried Chicken Dinner

Sponsored by Indian Head Volunteer Fire Department and Ladies Auxiliary

October 6, 2008

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Indian Head Firehouse

The menu includes a half-chicken, parsley potatoes, green beans, roll, butter and beverage. The cost is $8 per plate. Carryouts only.

Contact: Nancy Jones

Phone: 301-753-9400


Tuesday, October 7

Hospice Volunteer Training

Sponsored by Hospice of Charles County, Inc.

October 7 to 30

6 - 9 pm, Tuesdays & Thursdays

Hospice Office, LaGrange Ave, La Plata

The training will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays, along with an additional session Saturday, October 25, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call or e-mail to register.

Contact: Susie Loomis

Phone: 301-934-1268


Wednesday, October 8

Rescue Squad Auxiliary Meeting

Sponsored by Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary

October 8, 2008

7 p.m.

Rescue Squad Building, Route 235, Hollywood

The auxiliary is searching for new members. Anyone wishing to become a member is encouraged to attend.

Phone: 301-904-2095

Fall Auction

Sponsored by Children's Aid Society

October 10, 2008

Waldorf Jaycees Hall

The auction will be in a scramble format. Featured will be a DJ, a professional auctioneer, and a buffet.

Phone: 301-645-1561

Web site: www.childrens-aid-society.org


Thursday, October 9

Knights of Columbus Golf Tournament

Sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 8159

October 9, 2008

8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. tee off

Wicomico Shores Golf Club

The format is four-person scramble. The cost is $65 per person, which includes golf, cart, lunch, and prizes.

Contact: Paul Zimmerman

Phone: 301-884-4798


Friday, October 10

Charles County Children's Aid Society Annual Auction

Sponsored by Charles County Children's Aid Society

October 10, 2008

6:30 P.M.

Greater Waldorf Jaycees Community Center

The event will include a silent scramble auction, live auction, 50-50 raffle, and a quilt raffle. The tickets are $30 or two for $50, and will include a cash bar, heavy hors d'oeuvres, and assorted desserts.

Contact: Children's Aid Society

Phone: 301 645 1561


Saturday, October 11

Colonial Day

October 11, 2008

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

National Colonial Farm (The Accokeek Foundation)

Join the Bolton Family on the National Colonial Farm in celebrating the annual harvest. Experience scenes of life from the late 1770s and observe colonial demonstrators.

Contact: Tricia Hardin

Phone: 301-283-2113

Tree Planting

October 11, 2008

8 - 11:30 a.m.

The Accokeek Foundation

Come out for a morning of tree planting to celebrate Gorgeous Prince George’s County Day. Trees will be planted around the site. Wear closed-toe shoes, terrain will vary. Tools and gloves will be provided.

Contact: Kathy Talbot

Phone: 301-283-2113

AARP Driver Safety Course

Sponsored by Shady Oaks Conference Center

October 11, 2008

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

7490 Serenity Drive, Hughsville

The nation's first and largest classroom refresher course geared to the older driver. Subjects include defensive driving techniques,aged related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time. Course participants may be eligble for auto insurance dicount. Contact your agent. No test. The cost is $10 payable to AARP.

Contact: Kathy

Phone: 301-932-8864

11th Annual Southern Maryland Farm-Life Festival

Sponsored by The Parlett Family

October 11 and 12, 2008

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oc

The John K. Parlett Farm-Life Museum, New Market-Turner Road, Charlotte Hall

This family event features more than 60,000 square feet of indoor historical exhibits and demonstration. Included will be a Power Tractor Parade, children's events, antiques, crafts, and food. Proceeds will benefit Christmas in April * St. Mary's Co. The cost is $7 for adults, $3 for students, and free for children age 5 and younger.

Contact: Darene Kleinsorgen

Phone: 301-290-1621

Annual Fall Festival and Bazaar

Sponsored by Christ Episcopal Church Chaptico

October 11, 2008

12:30 - 5 p.m.

Zach Fowler Road, Chaptico

On the menu will be country ham, baked ham, and fried oysters with all the trimmings, served buffet style. The cost will be $20 for adults and carryouts, $7for children age 6 to 12, and free for children age 5 and younger. Scalded Oysters will also be available. Visit the Country Store for assorted goodies. Arts and crafts and a raffle will also be available.

Contact: Lisa Giacchetto

Phone: 301-884-3451

Web site: www.christepiscopalchaptico.org


Sunday, October 12

All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast

Sponsored by Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary

October 12, 2008

7:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Rescue Squad building, Route 235

The menu will include sausage gravy and biscuits, sausage links, bacon, scrambled eggs, fried potatoes, pancakes, fruit cocktail, escalloped apples, assorted juices, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. The cost is $8 for adults, $4 for children age 6 to 12 and free for children age 5 and younger.

Apple Festival

Sponsored by Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic Church

October 12, 2008

Noon - 5 p.m.

Loretto Hall, Chaptico Road, Chaptico

Featured will be apple pies, donuts, and cider. Other food will be available. Also included will be games for all ages, crafters, and vendors. A recipe contest will be held. Make your favorite apple recipe and bring it and the recipe to the hall by 1:30 p.m., with no entry fee. Judging will be at 2 pm Live music provided by hometown singer and songwriter David Norris, as well as Lawrence Copsey, Cathy “Lil Loretta” Henderson, Harold Wood and many more.

Contact: Ginger Quade

Phone: 301-884-5655


Friday, October 17

Ghosts of Sotterley Tours

Sponsored by Sotterley Plantation

October 17 - 18, 2008

Tours held from 7 to 10:30 p.m.

Sotterley Plantation

Travel back in time to Sotterley’s past with a drama set in the 1790s and produced by friends of Sotterley. Live music will be featured. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Reservations are required.

Contact: Sotterley Plantation

Phone: 301-373-2280


Saturday, October 18

Colonial Candle-Making Class

Saturday, October 18, 2008

10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

National Colonial Farm (The Accokeek Foundation)

The cost is $20 for nonmembers and $15 for members. The class is limited to 10 participants, and registration is required. Attend to learn the art of candle-making. You will learn about wicks, waxes, uses of candles in the 1700s, and safety instruction. Also discussed will be recipes and ideas for making your own candles at home.

Contact: Marquia Garcia

Phone: 301-283-2113

4th Annual Handcrafted Quilt Auction

Sponsored by Summerseat Farm, Inc.

October 18, 2008

9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Summerseat Farm, Route 235, Mechanicsville

Featured will be handmade quilts in various quilt patterns in twin, queen, king sizes, wall hangings, and handmade craft items by local artisans. Food and drinks will be available for sale. The preview beings at at 9 a.m. and the auction starts at 10 a.m. rain or shine. Cash, checks, VISA, MasterCard, and Discover will be accepted. Included will be a 10 percent buyers premium. The auctioneer is Rodney Thompson.

Contact: Rich Fuller

Phone: 301-481-9189

St. Mary's County, MD Oyster Festival

Sponsored by Lexington Park Rotary

October 18 & 19, 2008

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 6 p

St. Mary's County Fairgrounds, Leonardtown, MD

The 41st Annual St. Mary's County Oyster Festival will feature the U.S. National Oyster Shucking Championships and the National Oyster Cook-Off Contest. Since its inception in 1967, the festival has grown to become one of the Eastern Seaboards' leading regional folk festivals. Good food, quality entertainment and two nationally recognized contests are the elements that attract visitors from across the country each year. The festival showcases the opening of the oyster season on the Chesapeake Bay and celebrates the tradition of men and women making their living working the waters of the Chesapeake and its tributaries. Though the main focus of the Festival is on oysters raw, fried, steamed, and stewed, clams, fish, shrimp, crab cakes, and a variety of Southern Maryland pork, beef, and chicken specialties are also prepared and offered by volunteers from local non-profit groups at modest prices in a family-oriented setting. Choral groups as well as National and regional bands provide continuous musical entertainment. Games, clown shows, carnival rides, and educational displays are available for children and adults alike, while three buildings are devoted to the display and sales of local arts and crafts. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children age 12 and younger, and there is plenty of free parking.

Contact: David Taylor

Phone: 301-863-5015

Web site: WWW.USOYSTERFEST.COM

HUGE Flea Market

Sponsored by Brandywine Lions Club

October 18, 2008

8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Lions Park, Route 301 and Cherry Tree Crossing Roads, Cheltenham

10' x 10' spaces are available. Proceeds will benefit Community Support Systems.

Phone: 301-290-1332

The Sanford Concert Series opens the season with the National Men's Chor

Sponsored by The Sanford Concert Series

Saturday, October 18, 2008

7:30 p.m.

St. Andrew's Church, St. Andrew's Church Road, California

The Sanford Concert Series opens its 10th season with The National Men's Chorus from Washington, D.C., and Thomas Pandolfi, pianist.

Contact: Lyn Schramm

Phone: 301-862-9541

Maryland State Police 14th Annual Open House

Sponsored by Maryland State Police and the Calvert County Sheriff's Office

October 18, 2008

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Main Street, Prince Frederick

Featured will be antique police vehicles, a bicycle rodeo, hearing and vision tests, tours of the barrack, and K-9 demonstrations.


Sunday, October 19

ACLT Barn Restoration Work Day

Sponsored by American Chestnut Land Trust ACLT

October 19, 2008

8 a.m. - noon

Meet at the ACLT south side trailhead barn on Scientists' Cliffs Road, Port Republic.

Join the Barn Volunteer Crew as they maintain these historic Barns. The crew will be working on finishing up the Percy Howard Barn. Please bring work gloves. Also, power drills and a circular power saw may be needed for the project this weekend. The crew will be hanging doors and working on the siding. A generator will be supplied for power.

Contact: Liz Stoffel or Charity Higgs

Phone: 410-414-3400

Vine Vindicator Work Day

Sponsored by American Chestnut Land Trust ACLT

October 19, 2008

9 a.m. - noon

Meet at the ACLT south side trailhead barn on Scientists' Cliffs Road, Port Republic.

Join the Vine Vindicator Crew as they work to improve the ACLT lands for native plant species. They will be identifying and removing non-native invasive plants species such as Oriental Bittersweet, Wineberry, Multi flora Rose and Tree of Heaven. Please bring work gloves and loppers or clippers if you have them. Tools will be available if you need them. Work day may cancel due to extreme heat and/or storms.

Contact: Liz Stoffel or Charity Higgs

Phone: 410-414-3400


Monday, October 20

A Time to Heal Support Group

Sponsored by Hospice of Charles County, Inc.

October 20 - December 8

6:30 - 8 p.m.

Hospice Office, 105 LaGrange Ave, La Plata

Call or e-mail to register.

Contact: Lucia Hartman

Phone: 301-934-1268


Tuesday, October 21

2008 Maryland State Triad Conference

Sponsored by St. Mary's County Triad/ SALT Council and Charles County Triad

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

North Point High School, Davis Road, Waldorf

St. Mary’s County Sheriff Timothy Cameron will present welcoming remarks. This one-day conference focuses on senior safety issues, and is attended by law enforcement officials, Triad/SALT Council members, and interested senior citizens from throughout the state. Highlighted topics will include senior financial scams, fraud, and abuse presented by the Bank of America, gang activity, and Special Moments of Alzheimers and Dementia by keynote speaker and author Ellen P. Young. A light breakfast, soup and sandwich lunch, and beverages throughout the day are included in the $30 conference fee. Reservations are required, as space is limited.

Contact: Sherrie Wooldridge

Phone: 301-475-4200 est. 1073


Friday, October 24

Texas Hold'em Tournament

Sponsored by Indian Head Volunteer Fire Department

Friday, October 24, 2008

8 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Indian Head firehouse

Doors open at 6 p.m. and play starts at 8 p.m. The payout will be determined by number of players. You must be age 18 to play and age 21 to drink, and IDs will be required. The event is open to the first 160 players. Registration is $150 ($100 to prize pool/$50 to the fire department) Add-ons for the first hour of play are $40. Sodas, beer, snacks, and hot sandwiches will be provided with the registration fee. Mixed drinks are $1. Call or e-mail for reservations.

Contact: Nancy Jones

Phone: 301-753-9400

Web site: www.ihvfd.com

Community Health Fair: The Way To Wellness

Sponsored by St. Mary's County Department of Aging

Friday, October 24, 2008

8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Loffler Senior Activity Center

Learn about the latest health and wellness news and products from over 50 exhibitors. Flu and pneumonia inoculations will be available - Medicare card holders must bring their cards, and others can pay a suggested donation of $25. Updated information on the Medicare prescription drug program will be available. Blood profiles can be performed fees vary by age and services rendered. All are welcome to attend and listen to a wide variety of health screenings, presentations, and demonstrations.

Contact: Sherrie Wooldridge

Phone: 301-475-4200, ext. 1073

Basket Bingo

Sponsored by Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad

Friday, October 24, 2008

7 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m.

St. James Hall, located just south of Mattapany Road, Route 5

Tickets are $20 per person. Call to reserve tables for groups of six or more.

Contact: Debbie Drury

Phone: 301-904-6671


Saturday, October 25

SUPER BASKET BINGO

Sponsored by Mechanicsville Vol. Fire Dept. Ladies Auxiliary

Saturday, October 25, 2008

5:30 p.m.

Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Dept. Social Hall

Doors will open at 4:30 p.m., early bird games start at 5:30, and regular games start at 6 p.m. Admission is $20 per person for 20 regular games, and extra packets are $5 each. Early birds are 4 games for $3, and special games are $6 for 6 games. Bingo prizes will be Longaberger baskets and products. King Tutt and other pull-tab games will be played, and raffles will be held for Vera Bradley bundle, library table with woodcrafts top, retired and current baskets. A raffle will also be held for advance ticket holders only. Door prizes will be available. Children are welcome if they purchase a ticket and are accompanied by a paying adult. Food, drinks and baked goods will be available. Call for reservations.

Contact: Valerie Smiley

Phone: 301-481-0148


Sunday, October 26

Holiday Shopping Spree - Home Products Show

Sponsored by Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary

Sunday, October 26, 2008

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Rescue Squad building, Route 235, Hollywood

Anticipated participants include Tastefully Simple; The Angel Co., Longaberger Baskets, Creative Memories, Home Interiors, The Body Shop at Home, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Party Lite, Pampered Chef, Tupperware, Usbome Books, Silpada Jewelry, B’s Purses, Avon, Passion Parties, Lia Sophis Jewelry, Discovery Toys, Purse-n-ality, Slumber Parties, Watkins, Premier Designs, Dottie’s Dips, Rada Cutlery, Amway Home & Garden, Southern Living at Home, Phoenix Trading, Beijo Bags, and Cookie Lee Jewelry.

Contact: Kimberly Sullivan

Phone: 301-373-4651


Saturday, November 1

American Indian Heritage Day

Sponsored by Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

November 1, 2008

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

A festival focused on the lasting contributions that American Indians have made and continue to make to the social, political, technological, and cultural fabric of this nation. Enjoy hands-on American Indian crafts and skills, archery, the Eastern Woodland Indian Village, dance, storytelling, and more.

Contact: Michele Parlett

Phone: 410-586-8501

St. Peters Holiday Craft Fair - Waldorf

Sponsored by Catholic Daughters of the Americas

Saturday, November 1

8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

St. Peters School Auditorium, St. Peters Drive, Waldorf,

Fun for the whole family with over 60 tables of homemade crafts. Featured will be lunch and baked goods, silent auction, raffle, a country store, gently used jewelry room, and surprises. Start your Christmas shopping early. Crafters can call to reserve tables.

Contact: Judi Simmins

Phone: 301-788-5251

Annual Fall Dinner

Sponsored by All Faith Church

November 1, 2008

Noon - 5 p.m.

Mechanicsville VFD

Featured will be fried oysters, stuffed ham, fried chicken, sweet potatoes,green beans, beets, applesauce, coleslaw, rolls, coffee, and tea. Prices will be for adults, children, and carryout dinners.

Contact: Marge

Phone: 301-884-3773


Sunday, November 2

Fall Foliage Guided Hike at Double Oak Farm

Sponsored by American Chestnut Land Trust (ACLT)

November 2, 2008

9 a.m. - Noon

Double Oak Farm, Double Oak Road, Prince Frederick

You can't beat the fall colors at Double Oak Farm. Don't miss the last guided hike of the year. Admission is free, but registration is required.

Contact: Pat Tantum

Phone: 410-414-3400

Web site: www.acltweb.org


Monday, November 3

Drive-Thru Fried Chicken Dinner

Sponsored by Indian Head Volunteer Fire Department and Ladies Auxiliary

November 3, 2008

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Indian Head Firehouse

The menu includes a half-chicken, parsley potatoes, green beans, roll, butter and beverage. The cost is $8 per plate. Carryouts only.

Contact: Nancy Jones

Phone: 301-753-9400


Tuesday, November 4

Election Day Luncheon

Sponsored by Ridge Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary

November 4, 2008

7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Ridge Firehouse, Point Lookout Road

Baked goods and other sweet treats will also be available for sale. In order to guarantee availability, pre-orders for the stuffed ham sandwiches must be recieved no later than October 29.

Contact: Dawn Gatton

Phone: 301-872-5090


Friday, November 7

Legends and Lore Tours

November 7 and 8, 2008

5:30 pm

Sotterley Plantation, Hollywood

Take a special tour within Sotterley's Historic Mansion and hear about the legends and unexplained occurrences of Sotterley Plantation. The fee is $15 per person. Reservations are required.

Contact: Sotterley Plantation

Phone: 301-373-2280

Texas Hold'em Tournament

Sponsored by Holy Angels Sacred Heart School

Friday, November 7, 2008

Doors open at 6 p.m., play at 6:45 p.m.

Holy Angels Hall, Avenue

The cost is a $100 buy in, with side available available. A reservation with advance payment will confirm your seat, but is not necessary. Food and drinks are available for purchase. No one under 18 will be admitted. The event is sponsored by Holy Angels Sacred Heart School's eighth-grade class.

Contact: DJ Buckler

Phone: 301-481-1096


Friday, November 14

2008 Speaker Series at Sotterley presents Tom Horton and Ian Plant

November 14, 2008

7 p.m.

Sotterley Plantation, Hollywood

Horton and Plant will discuss their new book “Chesapeake: Bay of Light: An Exploration of the Chesapeake Bay"s Wild and Forgotten Places.” This joint presentation will include slides of many exquisite photos from the book. Following in the wake of Capt. John Smith, their book capture parts of the Bay still unspoiled by human hands, and their presentation will weave in Chesapeake themes from wildlife to pollution/recovery, to the estuary, how it works and why it is so vulnerable. Author of six books on the Chesapeake Bay, Tom Horton is a passionate supporter of efforts to preserve the Chesapeake Bay. A environmental columnist for the Baltimore Sun for 35 years, he worked for five years for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and has appeared in numerous publications. Ian J. Plant has been photographing the natural world for the past thirteen years. His work has been in a number of regional and national magazines, books, and calendars.

Contact: Sotterley Plantation

Phone: 301-373-2280


Friday, November 21

IHVFD Texas Hold 'em Tournament

Sponsored by Indian Head Volunteer Fire Department

November 21, 2008

8 p.m. - 1 a.m.

Indian Head Firehouse

Doors open at 6 p.m. and play starts at 8 p.m. Payout will be determined by number of players. You must be age 18 to play and age 21 to drink, IDs will be required. The event is open to the first 160 players. Registration is $150, with $100 going to the prize pool and $50 to the fire department. Add-ons for the first hour of play. Sodas, beer, snacks, and hot sandwiches will be provided with the registration fee. Mixed drinks are $1. Call or e-mail for reservations.

Contact: Nancy Jones

Phone: 301-753-9400


Saturday, November 22

La Plata UMC Annual Holiday Craft and Bake Sale

Sponsored by United Methodist Women of the La Plata UMC

Saturday, November 22, 2008

8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Fellowship Hall of the La Plata U. Methodist Church, Port Tobacco Road

Table rentals are available.

Contact: Carolyn Rogers

Phone: 301-934-3157


Sunday, November 23

Crafts Show

Sponsored by Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department Auxiliaries

November 23, 2008

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Hollywood firehouse, Route 235

More than 100 crafters will be featured. Food will be fore sale, including stuffed ham sandwiches. Admission is free.


Friday, November 28

Hearth and Home in Early Maryland

Sponsored by Historic St. Mary's City

November 28 and 29, 2008

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Historic St. Mary's City

Help the colonists batten down the hatches and stock the pantry before winter's chill decends.

Contact: Susan Wilkinson

Phone: 240-895-4990


Friday, December 5

Texas Hold'em Tournament

Sponsored by Bel Alton Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary

December 5, 2008

7:00 pm

Bel Alton Firehouse, 9720 Bel Alton Newtown Road, Bel Alton, MD

The cost is a $125 buy-in, with a $2,000 chip value. Participants can purchase 1,000 of chips for $40 before 9 p.m. Included will be side tables, a 50/50 rafafle, and free refreshments. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and games start at 9 p.m.

Contact: Gail Graves

Phone: 301-932-6485

Holiday Candlelight Tours

Sponsored by Sotterley Plantation

December 5 - 6, 2008

Tours held from 6 to 10 p.m.

Sotterley Plantation

Produced by the Port Tobacco Players, this year’s drama will be “A Governor’s Christmas”, and will be set in the 1790s period of Sotterleyrsquo;s history. Set within Sotterley’s historic Mansion, this special dramatic recreation is set against a backdrop of period decorations. Live seasonal music will be performed by the premiere choral groups from area high schools, and complimentary cookies and mulled cider will be available. Reservations are required. Group rates are available.

Contact: Sotterley Plantation

Phone: 301-373-2280


Saturday, December 6

Family Plantation Christmas

Sponsored by Sotterley Plantation

December 6, 2008

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sotterley Plantation

Bring your children to visit St. Nick and his elves. Take a horse-drawn taxi ride across the Plantation. Enjoy live seasonal music, caroling and treats. Crafts and games will be featured. Find that unique gift at the Sotterley Museum Shop, and buy fresh holiday greens and handcrafted items from Sotterley’s Garden Guild. Kids can shop for their families and loved ones at Santa’s Secret Shop. Concessions can be purchased from Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen. Admission is $5 per person.

Contact: Sotterley Plantation

Phone: 301-373-2280

A Victorian Christmas

Sponsored by Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House Museum

December 6 - 7

11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Mudd House Museum, Waldorf

The period-furnished house will be decorated for the season in the Victorian period. There will be refershments, musical entertainment, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, and a re-enactment by Civil War soldiers in uniform. (Dr. Mudd was the Maryland physician who went to prison after he treated the broken leg of presidential assassin John Wilkes Booth.) Admission is $7 for adults, $2 for children, and free for Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Society members.

Phone: 301-274-9358


Saturday, December 13

Breakfast With Santa

Sponsored by St. Thomas' Episcopal Parish

December 13, 2008

8 a.m - Noon

Chapel of the Incarnation, Brandywine Road, Brandywine

Adults can enjoy a home-cooked country breakfast while children shop in a Secret Santa Gift Shop and take pictures with Santa. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children younger than age 12, and free for seniors age 65 and older. Proceeds will benefit Community Support Systems Food Pantry.

Contact: Janice Diggs

Phone: 301 627-8469


Sunday, December 14

Drive-Thru Chicken Dinner

Sponsored by Ridge Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary

December 14, 2008

12:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Ridge Firehouse, Point Lookout Road.

Dinners are $8 and will include a half-chicken, potatoes, vegetable, cole slaw, and a roll. Come and support a worthy cause.

Contact: Dawn Gatton

Phone: 301-872-5090


Saturday, December 20

Christmas with The Washington Opera at The Sanford Concert Series

Sponsored by The Sanford Concert Series

December 20, 2008

7:30 p.m.

St. Andrew's Church, St. Andrew's Church Road, California

Come celebrate the season with The Sanford Concert Series and members of The Washington National Opera.

Contact: Lyn Schramm

Phone: 301-862-9541


Friday, January 30

Mid-Winter Ball

Sponsored by The Jude House Inc.

January 30, 2009

8 p.m. - midnight

Greater Waldorf Jaycees Community Center

One-of-a-Kind event features live orchestra and traditional dancing. The program begins with dinner and the ball itself follows with live music from the Capital Quicksteps Quadrille Orchestra which is 12-piece orchestra consisting of violins, woodwinds, brass, drums, piano and upright string bass, led by conductor Steve Hickman. n addition to ballroom, swing, waltz, and other couple dances, Dancing Master Jim Morrison will be on hand to teach and lead simple, traditional dances such as the Grand March, Virginia Reel, and Contradance. The orchestra has performed historical and modern dance music at the Smithsonian Institution, Glen Echo Park, the Cape May Victorian Dancefest, Towson University, the Knoxville Tennessee Dance Weekend, Richmond Virginia's Jefferson Hotel, and the Washington Folk Festival. Sponsorships are available. Individual tickets are $50. The Jude House, Inc. is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.

Contact: Toni Harris

Phone: 301-932-0700


Monday, September 14

Ghost Hunters at Greenwell

Sponsored by Greenwell Foundation

September 14, 2008

1 - 4 p.m.

Rosedale Manor, Greenwell State Park, Hollywood, MD 20636

The Greenwell Foundation presents Patrick Burke, president and co-founder of the American Battlefields Ghost Hunters Society and author of “Battlefield Guide to Ghost Hunting,” an instructional resource for the investigative process of hunting for ghosts on American battlefields. Join Burke for a discussion about his work and his book. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. Burke's appearance is this month's feature of Sundays in the Park, a Greenwell program that takes place on the second Sunday of every month. During Sundays in the park, community members are invited to tour the historic Rosedale Manor House and learn about all the programs, activities, and site rental opportunities at Greenwell.

Contact: Cara Fogarty

Phone: 301-373-9775

Web site: www.greenwellfoundation.org