images charles county, md: 2012

The Best of Both WorldsLiving options combine rural ambience and urban access

Shop AroundExplore a retail mix of local treasures and national brands

Try ThiS on For SizeCharles County is big for small businesses

SponSored By The ChArleS CounTy ChAmBer oF CommerCe

2012 | livABiliTy.Com/ChArleS-CounTy/md/

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ChArleS CounTy, mArylAnd

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ConTenT direCTor Lisa battLes

prooFreAding mAnAger Raven Petty

ConTenT CoordinATor Jessica WaLkeR

STAFF WriTer kevin LitWin

ConTriBuTing WriTerS anne GiLLem, Joe moRRis,

Jessica mozo, kathRyn RoysteR

Senior grAphiC deSignerS LauRa GaLLaGheR,

Janine maRyLand, kRis sexton, vikki WiLLiams

grAphiC deSignerS RachaeL GeRRinGeR, tayLoR nunLey

Senior phoTogrApherS Jeff adkins, bRian mccoRd

STAFF phoTogrApherS todd bennett, antony boshieR

Color imAging TeChniCiAn aLison hunteR

inTegrATed mediA mAnAger JoRdan mooRe

Ad produCTion mAnAger katie middendoRf

Ad TrAFFiC ASSiSTAnTS kRystin Lemmon, PatRicia moisan

ChAirmAn GReG thuRman

preSidenT/puBliSher bob schWaRtzman

exeCuTive viCe preSidenT Ray LanGen

Senior v.p./SAleS todd PotteR

Senior v.p./operATionS casey hesteR

Senior v.p./ClienT developmenT Jeff heefneR

Senior v.p./BuSineSS developmenT scott temPLeton

Senior v.p./AgriBuSineSS puBliShing kim hoLmbeRG

v.p./BuSineSS developmenT cLay PeRRy

v.p./exTernAl CommuniCATionS teRee caRutheRs

v.p./viSuAl ConTenT maRk foResteR

v.p./ConTenT operATionS natasha LoRens

v.p./TrAvel puBliShing susan chaPPeLL

v.p./SAleS Rhonda GRaham, heRb haRPeR,

JaRek sWekosky

ConTroller chRis dudLey

Senior ACCounTAnT Lisa oWens

ACCounTS pAyABle CoordinATor maRia mcfaRLand

ACCounTS reCeivABle CoordinATor diana Guzman

SAleS SupporT CoordinATor aLex maRks

SAleS SupporT projeCT mAnAger saRa quint

SySTem AdminiSTrATor danieL cantReLL

WeB CreATive direCTor aLLison davis

WeB ConTenT mAnAger John hood

WeB projeCT mAnAger noy fonGnaLy

WeB deSigner ii RichaRd stevens

WeB developmenT leAd yameL haLL

WeB developer i neLs noseWoRthy

phoTogrAphy direCTor JeffRey s. otto

CreATive ServiCeS direCTor chRistina caRden

CreATive TeChnology AnAlyST becca aRy

AudienCe developmenT direCTor deanna neLson

neW mediA ASSiSTAnT aLyssa dicicco

diSTriBuTion direCTor GaRy smith

exeCuTive SeCreTAry kRisty duncan

humAn reSourCeS mAnAger PeGGy bLake

reCepTioniST Linda bishoP

Images Charles County is published annually by Journal communications inc. and is distributed through

the charles county chamber of commerce and its member businesses.

for advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact

Journal communications inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at [email protected].

For more inFormATion, ConTACT:charles county chamber of commerce

101 centennial street, suite a, La Plata, md 20646Phone: (301) 932-6500 • fax: (301) 932-3945

www.charlescountychamber.org

viSiT Images Charles County online AT livABiliTy.Com/ChArleS-CounTy/md

©copyright 2012 Journal communications inc., 725 cool springs blvd., suite 400, franklin, tn 37067,

(615) 771-0080. all rights reserved. no portion of this magazine may be reproduced

in whole or in part without written consent.

member the association of magazine media

member custom content council

member charles county chamber of commerce

Building a Better Business …Building a Better CommunitySetting the stage for growth and progress takes vision

and commitment. Facchina is there with business and government helping to meet the challenges

and opportunities for Charles County.

~ Paul V. Facchina, Sr., Founder and CEO

At Facchina we are over 500 individuals and their families with many calling Charles County

home. We build new roads and bridges to improve safety for the traveling public.

We build new buidings for jobs and services that provide employment for the area residents.

Our business parks are planned using the national leadership in energy and the

environment “LEED” programs. We are developers and contractors,

but we are also conservationists dedicating open space and preservation areas

to the regions Rural Legacy programs and to the Maryland Environment Trust.

We are proud to be part of

Charles County’s history and its future!

ENGAGED IN DIVERSE PARTNERSHIPS, PROJECTS AND PROPERTIES THROUGHOUT MD, VA, D.C. & FL

Heavy/Civil Construction – Site and Building Development Concrete Frames – Commercial Building and Construction

Charles County, La Plata, Maryland

www.facchina.com LivabiLit y.Com/CharLEs- Count y/md 3

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.charlescountychamber.org

http://www.facchina.com

all or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

Please recycle this magazine

on The Cover the fountain at centennial Plaza in La Plata Photo by todd bennett

dePartments

6 Almanac

22 Biz Briefs

25 economic profile

26 See the County

28 local Flavor

30 health & Wellness

32 Arts & Culture

34 Sports & recreation

37 education

39 Community profile

40 Through the lens

2012 ediTion | volume 11


®

contents

Features

10 The BeST oF BoTh WorldSLiving options combine rural ambience with easy urban access

14 Shop Aroundfind a great mix of local treasures and national brands

18 Try ThiS on For Sizecharles county is big for small businesses

10

28

LivabiLit y.Com/CharLEs- Count y/md 3

See more great photos of Charles County in our online photo galleries

Flip through the pages of this magazine and easily share articles using Facebook, Twitter or email.

Photos

Digital magazine

The Best of Both WorldsLiving options combine rural ambience and urban access

Shop AroundExplore a retail mix of local treasures and national brands

Try ThiS on For SizeCharles County is big for small businesses

SponSored By The ChArleS CounTy ChAmBer oF CommerCe

2012 | livABiliTy.Com/ChArleS-CounTy/md/

®


Facts Get the most up-to-date info on cost of living, top employers, schools, population demographics and more

living hereLearn the basics about local neighborhoods, schools and health-care providers

viDeoWatch quick videos of local attractions

What’s online livability.com/charles-county/md


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Digital Edition

share with a FrienDeasily share an interesting article, stunning photo or advertisement of your business on Facebook, twitter or via email.

have a Blog or weBsite?embed the digital magazine in your site to add compelling, local information.

Do more than JUst reaD aBoUt itexperience the community through video and find links to other sites for additional information.

livability.com/charles-county/md

There’s a reason shopping aficionados tend to put down roots in Charles County. Actually, there are a few hundred reasons. Charles County is considered the shopping hub

for Southern Maryland and is packed with venues including everything from national chain stores to independently owned specialty shops.

Charles County Specialty ShopsNearly three decades ago, Lorrie Anderson traded

her job as a horticulture teacher for a job at Country Florist, a quaint flower shop on Old Washington Road in Waldorf. Today, she owns the shop and spends her days surrounded by sweet-smelling blooms.

“Our customers come to us because they care about the people they’re ordering flowers for, and they are fun to work with,” Anderson says. “I very much like and respect the business community in Charles County. We help and support each other. Charles County is a great community of wonderful businesses, large and small. I quickly learned they care about the community and are proactively involved.”

Don’t let the Country part of her shop’s name fool you – this business is on the cusp of technology, always mindful of the latest designs, trends and new ways of doing things.

“We are working on being more proactive in social media, and we now provide a floral app, which makes

BIG RETAIL MIX INCLUDES LOCAL TREASURES AND NATIONAL BRANDS

STORY BY JESSICA MOZOPHOTOGRAPHY BY TODD BENNETT

AroundShop

A designer builds a floral arrangement at Country Florist in Waldorf

LIVABILIT Y.COM/CHARLES- COUNT Y/MD 15

Shop

LIVABILIT Y.COM/CHARLES- COUNT Y/MD 15 14 CHARLES COUNT Y


www.ccplonline.org

6 CharLEs Count y LivabiLit y.Com/CharLEs- Count y/md 7

Welcome to Charles Countyan introduCtion to thE arEa’s pEopLE, pLaCEs and EvEnts

Giving herons a safety nestthe great blue heron is a wading bird with an overall length of

three feet to 4.5 feet and a wingspan of 5.5 feet to 6.5 feet, making it the largest north american heron. Charles County has nearly 2,500 of these birds, thanks to the nanjemoy Creek Great blue heron sanctuary. this sanctuary is operated by the nature Conservancy, an organization devoted to ecological preservation efforts. the goal of this preserve is to protect the more than 1,100 breeding pairs of great blue herons in Charles County. the preserve is also home to 48 tree species, 86 varieties of wildflowers and numerous animals.

fun in a Roundabout Waybefore high-speed roller coasters, people derived their

carnival entertainment from ornate carousels with colorful

decorations and lively music. With the rise in high-octane

amusement parks, the number of antique wooden-horse

carousels has dwindled to fewer than 170 in the united

states and canada. the southern maryland carousel Group

inc. is working to revive the lost art of woodcarving that these

carousels represent. the group is a 501(c)(3) organization

founded in 2004 with the goal of constructing a full-scale

working carousel in southern maryland. the group’s facility

in La Plata will house a grand wooden carousel, a woodcarving

museum and a woodcarving learning center. once completed,

the facility of up to 12,000 square feet will feature 48 animals,

two chariots and 18 rounding boards, as well as a band organ

and art from area artists.


Fast Factsn Charles County is the 15th wealthiest county in the u.s., according to the website main street, which used 2010 u.s. Census data to compile its list.

n Charles County is made up of 10 communities – benedict, bryantown, Cobb island, indian head, La plata, marshall hall, nanjemoy, popes Creek, port tobacco and Waldorf.

n port tobacco first existed as the native american settlement of potopaco. it was colonized by the English in 1634 and was once the state’s second-largest town.

n Charles County has 150 miles of shoreline, with the potomac river on the west and the patuxent river on its eastern edge.

serving others With scarecrows

each october, the festival of scarecrows

brings the charles county community

together to enjoy halloween-themed

festivities. in 2011, charles county held

its 6th annual festival. for this fundraiser,

participants design and build creative,

themed scarecrows. once complete, the

scarecrows are judged and the winners

announced. While the scarecrows are

the focal point of the event, the community

enjoys other crafts activities including

weaving, painting, bead making and

more. a portion of all

proceeds benefit

a nonprofit

group, which

is selected

each year

by the

charles

county

chamber

of commerce.

Where Ghost ships Live

visitors to mallows bay

can see the site of the largest

shipwreck fleet in the Western

hemisphere. the fleet

includes ships from World

War i, 19th-century canoes

and schooners, a north

carolina menhaden boat,

a possible Revolutionary

War longboat and more.

these vessels have developed

ecosystems in their remnants,

creating a biodiversity that

has offset any pollution the

ships might have introduced.

almanac

Rooting for the home team

the southern maryland blue crabs is charles county’s home

team, which competes in the atlantic League of Professional

baseball, an eight-team league formed in 1998. the team’s

stadium features approximately 4,200 reserved seats, as well

as skybox seats. When hunger strikes, concession stands serve

light snacks. there are also numerous fine-dining establishments

including mvP Grill, hall of fame seafood and hot corner

carvery. to keep fans cool, crabby cove, a pool behind

left center field, has bumper boats and a waterfall.

Ph

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ou

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www.HeritageGreenMd.com

a home for history

the african american heritage

house is dedicated to showcasing

the life, history and contributions

of famous african americans from

charles county, as well as displaying

local artifacts from the era of slavery.

the museum is staffed entirely

by volunteers.

it is owned by the african american

heritage society of charles county

inc., a nonprofit organization founded

in 1974 to preserve, document and

exhibit the contributions of african

americans. the society purchased

heritage house in 1999 to serve

as an educational facility for the

community, as well as a tourist

attraction for southern maryland.


almanac

the Road to Religious freedom

While it is hard to imagine

america without the principle

of separation between church

and state, maryland restricted

citizens’ religious freedom prior to

the Revolutionary War. to celebrate

the freedom of religion maryland

gained with the revolution, charles

county has the Religious freedom

byway. this byway spans 195 miles

and takes about five hours to travel.

it incorporates historically significant

sites relevant to religious freedom

including many of america’s oldest

churches, the site of the first Roman

catholic mass held in english

and st. mary’s city, a restored

17th-century village that was

maryland’s colonial capital.

MARYLANDMARYLAND

VIRGINIA

MARYLAND

6

5

6

301

CHARLESLa Plata

Waldorf

St. Charles

Washington, D.C.ngtongton29529

Hughesville

Indian Head

Port TobaccoVillage

Bryantown

Cobb Island

populATion (2009 eSTimATe)charles county: 142,226

loCATioncharles county is in southern maryland,

23 miles south of Washington, d.c.,

54 miles south of baltimore and

89 miles north of Richmond, va.

BeginningScharles county was formed in 1658

by an order in council in england

and named for charles calvert,

the third baron of baltimore.

For more inFormATioncharles county chamber of commerce

101 centennial street, suite a

La Plata, md 20646

Phone: (301) 932-6500

fax: (301) 932-3945 www.charlescountychamber.org

charles county at a glance

What’s online Check out photo galleries and videos of Charles County at livability.com/charles-county/md. Charles County

http://www.charlescountychamber.org

LivabiLit y.Com/CharLEs- Count y/md 11 10 CharLEs Count y

Charles County is a study in contrasts. Dotted with farms and state parks, this section of

Southern Maryland also offers all the amenities of a bustling metro area. In other words, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy the ambience of rural life without sacrificing urban conveniences and opportunities. Town by town, here are some of the standout features and benefits of living in Charles County.

la plataLa Plata, located in central Charles

County, is the county seat and home to about 9,000 residents. Commerce and new-home construction are growing steadily, but family-oriented events and a walkable layout keep the community tight.

“It’s like a quaint small town, but with all your conveniences right here,” says Michael Mazzeo, a lifelong Charles County resident

who has lived in La Plata since 1988.Affordable housing, good schools

and a low crime rate make this community a favorite for young professionals and families with children. Nature-lovers can enjoy Clark Run Nature Area and Laurel Springs Regional Park, a LEED-certified town hall, and green-building grants attract the environmentally conscious. The College of Southern Maryland and the community-oriented CIVISTA Medical Center round out La Plata’s amenities.

“And if you want to get out on a Saturday, we’re within 45 miles of the entire D.C. area,” Mazzeo says. “There are so many places you can visit.”

WaldorfThough unincorporated, Waldorf

is home to about 68,000 people, roughly half the county’s population. Located in north Charles County, just 11 miles from the Beltway, this

community is ideal for Capital commutes. Waldorf is oriented around the St. Charles planned community, which offers a range of housing types and a full complement of amenities including neighborhood schools, recreation centers and even a weekly farmers market.

“Waldorf has the hustle and bustle and the great public transit that people want in an urban area,” says Mary Pat Berry, a lifelong Charles County resident who lived in Waldorf for more than 20 years. “But it also has a real sense of family and community.”

indian headIndian Head, located on the

great Potomac River in northeast Charles County, is perhaps best known as the home of the Naval Surface Warfare Center. Near the base, Indian Head Science and Technology Park offers an in-county location for defense and other federal contractors

ChArleS CounTy CoupleS rurAl AmBienCe WiTh urBAn AmeniTieS

WorldsstoRy by KAThryn roySTerPhotoGRaPhy by Todd BenneTT

The Best of Both


and vendors. But Indian Head isn’t just about the Navy.

Assets like the Indian Head Rail Trail encourage the town’s 3,500 residents to enjoy abundant natural scenery and wildlife. Meanwhile, Indian Head Center for the Arts offers a black-box theater and arts education. Indian Head is just 20 minutes from the Beltway and 30 minutes from D.C.

port Tobacco villagePort Tobacco Village, located

in central Charles County, is the smallest incorporated town in Maryland. Originally the county seat, Port Tobacco is steeped in history.

“I love that, when I walk around town, I’m walking in the footsteps of people from the Revolutionary War,” says Mary Pat Berry, who now lives in Port Tobacco.

The village’s many attractions include the 322-acre Thomas Stone National Historic Site, once owned by a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and the Port Tobacco Archeology Project.

“Aside from the history, Port Tobacco is the place for people who want the rural life,” Berry says. “It’s quiet, almost no traffic. I can sit on my back deck and watch the eagles fly over the river.”

While these four towns offer a cross-section of Charles County life, there’s certainly more to be found in this slice of Southern Maryland. Charles County is also home to Bennsville, Bryans Road, Hughesville, Potomac Heights and 25 other distinct locales. So, wherever you choose to settle, Charles County has plenty of places you can call home.

Clockwise from left: College of southern maryland men’s basketball; the thomas stone national historic site in port tobacco village; st. Charles towne Center in Waldorf; indian head rail trail in indian head b

Ria

n m

cc

oR

d


Shop


There’s a reason shopping aficionados tend to put down roots in Charles County. Actually, there are a few hundred reasons. Charles County is considered the shopping hub

for Southern Maryland and is packed with venues including everything from national chain stores to independently owned specialty shops.

Charles County Specialty ShopsNearly three decades ago, Lorrie Anderson traded

her job as a horticulture teacher for a job at Country Florist, a quaint flower shop on Old Washington Road in Waldorf. Today, she owns the shop and spends her days surrounded by sweet-smelling blooms.

“Our customers come to us because they care about the people they’re ordering flowers for, and they are fun to work with,” Anderson says. “I very much like and respect the business community in Charles County. We help and support each other. Charles County is a great community of wonderful businesses, large and small. I quickly learned they care about the community and are proactively involved.”

Don’t let the Country part of her shop’s name fool you – this business is on the cusp of technology, always mindful of the latest designs, trends and new ways of doing things.

“We are working on being more proactive in social media, and we now provide a floral app, which makes

Big reTAil mix inCludeS loCAl TreASureS And nATionAl BrAndS

stoRy by jeSSiCA mozoPhotoGRaPhy by Todd BenneTT

AroundShop

a designer builds a floral arrangement at Country Florist in Waldorf


Above: st. Charles towne Center in Waldorf right: Candy Clark boutique in La plata carries formal wear, casual wear, knit dresses, suits, purses, shoes, gift items and more


it easy to order flowers on the go if you have a smartphone,” Anderson says. “We are able to send customers reminders for anniversaries and birthdays, and if a customer asks what was sent years earlier, we can pull up that information.”

If you’re looking for the latest fashions for women, you’ll find them at Candy Clark Boutique in La Plata. The boutique carries formal wear, casual wear, knit dresses, suits, purses, shoes and gift items in a shop designed to resemble a Parisian salon with a Baltimore twist. Joson Fine Jewelry is Charles County’s one-stop shop for jewelry services and offers custom jewelry design, gemstone polishing, jewelry and watch repair.

Charles County mallsIf mall shopping is more your cup of tea, Charles

County delivers in that arena, too. St. Charles Towne Center features more than 130 stores and is anchored by Dick’s Sporting Goods, Macy’s, JCPenney, Kohl’s and Sears.

“St. Charles Towne Center promises a delightful, convenient and stress-free shopping experience,” says Lindsay Pitts, area director of marketing and business development at St. Charles Towne Center. “St. Charles Towne Center is more than just a shopping center. It is a community venue. We feature annual events like Mom’s Nite Out, Reaching Out Now’s Community Food Drive and Fun Fest, and Movies Under the Stars. We also offer monthly Kidgits events and breakfasts with Santa and the Easter Bunny for our little shoppers.”

In summer 2012, St. Charles Towne Center’s AMC Loews movie theater will unveil its new $4.5 million renovation including enhanced presentation quality and sound, power leather recliners for movie-goers, and upgrades to the concession area and restrooms.

The Shops at Waldorf Center is another major retail destination anchored by hhgregg, Christmas Tree Shops, Babies “R” Us, Ross Dress for Less, Marshall’s, The Room Store, PetSmart and Modell’s Sporting Goods.

Where to shop?Country Florist 3040 Old Washington Rd. Waldorf, MD 20601 24hr: 301-843-6676 www.countryflorist.com

Candy Clark Boutique 305 Centennial St # A La Plata, MD 20646 (240) 776-4479 www.candyclark boutique.com

St. Charles Towne Center 11110 Mall Cir.St. Charles, MD 20603(301) 870-6996 www.stcharles townecenter.com


http://www.countryflorist.com

http://www.candyclark

http://www.stcharles

business


Craig Guice and Mark Vliet met in sixth grade as students at Milton Somers Middle School in La Plata, and today

the childhood friends co-own OutsourceIT, one of the fastest growing small businesses in Maryland.

“We started the company in 2004, with Mark managing day-to-day operations for our clients, while I manage the growth of the business,” Guice says. “The company’s mission is to provide a more efficient and cost-effective way to deliver IT support to the small business community. It’s almost like selling an HMO health plan

to small companies, but we sell information technology.”

Support for ComputersGuice says his company’s client list

has grown in recent years to include a wide range of commercial, government and nonprofit organizations throughout the D.C./Baltimore area and the Triad region of North Carolina.

“Small businesses contract with us by the month, and we provide all the IT benefits that large corporations receive but on an affordable basis for them,” he says. “Whether a company has one computer, five computers

stoRy by Kevin liTWinPhotoGRaPhy by Todd BenneTT

What’s online Visit livability.com/charles-county/md to read more articles about Charles County’s thriving business climate.

an employee takes a call from a client at outsourceit, one of the state’s fastest growing small businesses.

ChArleS CounTy iS Big For SmAll BuSineSSeS

on foR sizetry this



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San Jose, CA

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or 100 computers, at some point they will need a network security expert, or an email expert, or a data expert – someone to fix a computer so they can continue working. That is what OutsourceIT is all about.”

He adds that Charles County is not only a nice place to live, but he is seeing Charles County becoming less of a bedroom community and more of a business park area.

“That’s why we have established our headquarters in La Plata with 70 employees,” Guice says. “OutsourceIT has more than 250 clients, and we manage all of their 10,000 total computers from our La Plata office.”

Fit to printAnother small business doing well in Charles County

is Quality Printers LLC in White Plains, owned by Joe Namyst Sr. and Joe Namyst Jr., who are both natives of Charles County.

“I’ve been involved in this community for many years with civic organizations, church, sponsoring teams, and I’ve coached more than 20 years,” Namyst Sr. says. “I’ve always had a philosophy of community, supporting your

business neighbors and keeping local jobs. Being a small printing company, we have always been big about supporting small businesses in Charles County.”

Check out the FrontBesides all the services that a top printing

shop can offer, the front entrance space at Quality Printers has been transformed into a community center.

“It’s a place where small businesses can meet and market themselves, complete with eye-pleasing artwork on the walls and a modern décor,” Namyst Jr. says. “By the way, besides the Quality Printers portion of our business, we have also established a QP2 Creative division for people who want a website created or any other design and technology-related upgrades to their business.”

Namyst Jr. says no matter how successful Quality Printers continues to become, its first priority will always be to serve the Charles County community.

“More and more small businesses are choosing Charles County, which is great to see,” he says. “It has always been a beautiful place to live and is equally an excellent place to work.”

Craig Guice, pictured above, co-owns outsourceit in La plata with his friend since childhood, mark vliet.


scorecardBuSineSS AT

A glAnCe

$2 billionAnnual retail Sales

$16,846retail Sales

per Capita

$232 million

Annual hotel and

Food Sales

11,011Total number

of Firms

source: u.s. Census QuickFacts

business

Biz BriefsbusinEssEs – both LarGE and smaLL – that hELp dEFinE CharLEs

County’s EConomiC CLimatE

SmeCoBiz: Customer-owned electric cooperativeBuzz: Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative, or SMECO, provides electricity to more than 152,000 services in southern Prince George’s County, throughout Charles County and St. Mary’s County, and most of Calvert County. As one of the 10 most expansive electric co-ops in the U.S., SMECO offers programs to help customers save energy and reduce electric bills.www.smeco.coop


http://www.smeco.coop

inFoTeK inTernATionAl inCBiz: Information technology companyBuzz: Founded in 1991, Infotek International Inc. assists clients with software development, website design, enterprise architecture projects and more. The company also rents out computers, laptops, LCD projectors, plasma displays and other items, offering free maintenance and shipping to any location in the United States within 24 hours.www.infotek-intl.com

ClASSiC ArT phoTogrAphyBiz: Professional photographyBuzz: Ronald J. Warren, owner of Classic Art Photography, has been capturing special events since 1993. Serving Maryland, Virginia and the Washington, D.C., area, Warren photographs weddings, families, individual portraits, sporting events and more. Classic Art Photography clients can expect creative, budget-friendly services and experiences customized to meet their preferences.www.classic-art-photography.com

Big B liquorSBiz: Spirit shop and barBuzz: Big B Liquors offers a selection of more than 3,000 spirited beverages including domestic and imported beer, liquor, wine, champagne, sake and more. Customers can also enjoy the Big B Liquors Tavern, with a full-service bar, food and games. Bar catering and bartending services are available for special events, as well as custom and premade gift baskets.www.bigbliquors.com

STATe FArmBiz: Insurance agencyBuzz: State Farm Agent Fontella Moody, LTCP established her agency in the Bryans Road area in 2006. Moody helps all clients select insurance and financial service products and specializes in assisting women with their insurance, banking and investment decisions including asset protection, retirement planning and long-term health care. Policies are reviewed annually to ensure each client’s needs continue to be met.www.fontellamoodyinsurance.com

1200 Charles St. • La Plata, MD (301) 932-0963 (301) 934-3806

www.growingwithgrace.org

Grace Lutheran churchSunday Morning Worship 8:00 a.m. TraditionalLiturgy 9:30 a.m. SundaySchool 9:30a.m. ContemporaryLiturgy 11:00 a.m. Praise&Worship

NurseryavailableatallservicesConfirmation/Jr.YouthandSr.YouthPrograms

Wednesday evening Worship 6:30 p.m. CommunionService

Banquet & Meeting room rentals Perfectforweddings,rehearsaldinners,receptions,meetings,conferences.Alsoavailable:commercialkitchenandaudiovisualsystem.

Grace Lutheran SchooLtwo Year olds, PreK-8th Grade • Educationalprogramaccreditedbythe NationalLutheranSchoolsAssociation • Degreed/certifiedteachersand highlyqualifiedstaff • Childdevelopmentcenterprovides licensedbefore-andafter-school programforregisteredstudents • Dailydevotionsandweeklychapel • Hotlunchprogram • Physicaleducation,music,art andforeignlanguage • Dedicatedcomputertechnologylab • Dedicatedlibrary • Afterschoolclubs,parentteacher leagueandsummercamps


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BuSineSS ClimATealthough agriculture remains an important part of the local economy, charles county has a diverse private sector, with strong technology, international business and tourism sectors.

eConomiC proFile

TAx STruCTure

2-6.25%income tax range

6%total sales tax

expendiTure

$71,567average annual household Expenditure

TrAnSporTATion

amtrakwww.amtrak.com

amtrak locations nearest to La Plata include the alexandria station within 20 miles at 110 callahan dr., alexandria, va., and union station within 40 miles at 50 massachusetts ave., Washington, d.c.

metropolitan Washington airports authority1 aviation cir. Washington, dc 20001-6000 (703) 417-8600 www.metwashairports.com

nearest airports from La Plata include baltimore/Washington international thurgood marshall airport (bWi, about 46 miles), Ronald Reagan Washington national airport (dca, about 23 miles) and Washington dulles international airport (iad, about 43 miles).

vanGo8190 Port tobacco Rd. Port tobacco, md 20677 (301) 934-9305 www.charlescounty.org/ cs/vango/

vanGo is a countywide transportation system that offers public transportation routes that operate on fixed schedules and more specialized transportation services for people unable to utilize the public transportation system.

mAjor employerS

naval support Facility (nsF) 3,472 employees

College of southern maryland 1,090 employees

Civista medical Center 805 employees

Wal-mart/sam’s Club 674 employees

Facchina Construction 480 employees

target 467 employees

reliable Contracting 420 employees

southern maryland Electric Coop. (smECo) 379 employees

southern maryland oil/ Wills Group 377 employees

Genesis healthCare 320 employees


http://www.amtrak.com

http://www.metwashairports.com

http://www.charlescounty.org/

St. Ignatius Church in Port Tobacco Village

Photo by Todd Bennett

see the county


White Plains Skate Park in White Plains

Photo by Todd Bennett

What’s online Visit livability.com/charles-county/md to see more award-winning photography of places and people in Charles County.


Local flavor

Serving up a varied selection of fantastic fare, charles

county’s restaurants keep residents and visitors well-fed. barbecue, burgers, seafood and ethnic dishes make up the area’s food scene, and farmers markets in La Plata and Waldorf round out the region’s offerings.

seaFood – a maryland tradition

family-owned captain John’s

crab house & marina on cobb

island is a local institution that

has been serving fresh-caught

seafood since 1963. captain

John’s menu includes shrimp,

crab legs and rockfish, among

other dishes. captain billy’s

crab house in newburg is

another tasty destination, with

outdoor dining on a waterfront

deck. Local favorites include

classic crab cakes and cream

of crab soup. also located in

newburg, Gilligan’s Pier seafood

& steakhouse is popular for its

fresh food and sizable portions,

as well as for its water-taxi

service for those coming to

the restaurant by boat.

international delights

savory chinese cuisine is on the menu at benny’s chinese Restaurant in White Plains and hunan star chinese Restaurant in La Plata. hunan star is a longstanding favorite with ethnic food lovers and features a buffet with traditional chinese favorites such as General tso’s chicken, fried rice, and hunan shrimp and chicken. at Loredo’s steakhouse and Grill in White Plains, customers return time and again for handmade burritos,

Palate-Pleasing optionsvariEty kEEps CharLEs County dinErs satisFiEd

Clockwise from left: apple spice Junction in La plata; Gilligan’s pier in newburg; sandwich at apple spice Junction

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Town of Indian Head“On the Move”

A quaint, rural community on a peninsula formed by the Potomac River and the Mattawoman CreekA small-town atmosphere – 20 minutes from the Capital BeltwayIndian Head – Washington DC – So near – So differentAdjacent to the Naval Surfaces Warfare CenterA variety of recreational and water amenitiesNew quality water access housingGrowing community – “Watch our progress”Great business opportunities

For more information, contact

the Town Hall at:

(301) 743-5511

www.townofindianhead.org

Other Information: Vital Records • Employment • Environmental Health Services Core Service Agency • Public Health Preparedness & Response Services

4545 Crain Hwy. • White Plains, MD 20695 • (301) 609-6900 FAX (301) 934-4632 • TTY (800) 735-2258 • www.charlescountyhealth.org

Hours of operation: 8 am-5 pm (some programs may include evening hours)

•Health•Healthinsurance•Immunizations•Communicabledisease•Developmentaldisability•Healthystart• Infants&toddlers•Schoolhealth•Substanceabuse•Mentalhealth•WIC•Dentalservices

Child & Adolescent Services

Adult Services

PubliC HeAltH ServiCeS

•Familyplanning•Mentalhealth•Developmental disability•Communicable disease•Substanceabuse•Personalcare

•Adultevaluation•Pregnantwomen healthinsurance•Cancerscreening•AIDS/HIV•Dentalservices•Smokingcessation

for the Community

guacamole, tacos and enchiladas, as well as margaritas and fried ice cream. Loredo’s also specializes in steaks and seafood.

american Favoritesone of charles county’s best

breakfast spots is marie’s diner in

La Plata. biscuits and gravy, eggs

cooked to order, fluffy pancakes

and flavorful ham slices are popular

breakfast choices. marie’s also

features lunch and dinner

specials such as prime rib.

family-owned Lefty’s barbecue

unlimited, inc. has been serving

meats slow-cooked over a hickory

wood fire in Waldorf since 1989.

favorite menu items include Lefty’s

chicken bites, hand-breaded in

the restaurant’s signature fish

and chicken breader, and platters

piled high with seasoned beef

brisket, ribs smothered with sauce,

chicken and pork chops. Johnny

boy Ribs is another local eatery

that has been using the same

authentic barbecue cooking

technique since 1961. the La Plata

restaurant offers carryout and

dine-in options, and is most famous

for its open pit cooking method

and secret sauce developed by

mama sophie. also in La Plata,

the Greene turtle serves wings,

sliders, burgers, wraps and more,

while apple spice Junction offers

salads and sandwiches.

in hughesville, Randy’s Ribs

& barbecue has roadside dining

at its best. there’s almost always

a line at the window for Randy’s

barbecue sandwiches and platters,

and the barbecue shack is known

for catering unforgettable luaus

and wedding dinners featuring

whole pig roasts.

– Jessica Mozo

What’s online Read more about Charles County’s food scene at livability.com/charles-county/md.


http://www.townofindianhead.org

http://www.charlescountyhealth.org

health & Wellness

The doctors will see you now at many top

medical facilities throughout charles county.

civista health systemin 1939, Physician’s memorial hospital opened in

charles county, and decades later, it became part of

a regional health system. in 1998, its name was changed

to civista. today, civista health system continues

to be anchored by the not-for-profit civista medical

center, a 121-bed facility in La Plata.

in 2011, civista health signed an agreement

to affiliate with the university of maryland medical

system. among the many advantages is the

recruitment of their physicians to the area. meanwhile,

civista medical center has increased the size of its

campus through several land and building acquisitions,

growing by 40 percent over the past two years.

it has also achieved national recognition for its

clinical quality, as the medical center’s emergency

department, inpatient and surgical service

volumes continue to grow.

civista medical center also offers classes, programs

and events to inform the public about important health

issues and topics. civista has a website and social

media presence, and strives to improve the health

of charles county through education, resources

and quality health care.

charles county hosPice housea 22,000-square-foot hospice house opened

in april 2012 on davis Road in Waldorf, across the

street from north Point high school. the facility

is run by hospice of charles county and combines

the comforts of home with 24/7 medical, spiritual

and psychological care. its mission is to support

patients facing the realities of terminal illness.

time for a checkupmEdiCaL FaCiLitiEs oFFEr array oF sErviCEs


several nonProFit organizationsthe center for children in La Plata provides

mental health services to children and their families. it is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse, and the promotion of positive mental health through crisis intervention, therapy, education and advocacy.

the charles county nursing and Rehabilitation center focuses on recovery and independence, offering services including alzheimer’s and dementia care, short- and long-term care, and day services for adults in need of supervised treatment.

melwood and spring dell center both serve disabled

individuals, while the charles county chapter of the

Red cross and united Way of charles county work

to improve the community’s health and wellness

in various ways.

– Anne Gillem and Joe Morris

What’s online For more insight on Charles County’s health and wellness offerings, head to livability.com/charles-county/md.

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www.stjude.org/tribute

Charles county shows its love for art and history in the area’s cultural

opportunities. museums, theaters, historic sites and art programs help showcase the county’s rich heritage, which dates from 1658.

in La Plata, the african-american heritage society museum houses 17th-century artifacts and documents from the slavery era. nearby Port tobacco is the original home of the indian village of Potopaco, and it offers tours of a one-room schoolhouse and reconstructed courthouse saluting its 1600s heyday. Port tobacco was also the home of thomas stone, a lawyer and politician who signed the declaration of independence. tourists can explore the thomas stone national historic site, stone’s sprawling estate that includes a tobacco plantation, colonial mansion and 19th-century farm buildings.

dive into the artscommunity theater thrives in charles

county, with groups such as the Port

tobacco Players and the hard bargain

Players entertaining audiences in La Plata

and accokeek. the black box theatre

at the indian head center for the arts

gives residents another venue in which

to perform, with regularly sold-out

events featuring music, theater and

open mic performances.

meanwhile, the charles county arts

alliance helps strengthen the area’s arts

community by promoting nonprofit arts

agencies through its weekly newsletter

that provides information about upcoming

arts activities. formed in 1987, the charles

county arts alliance also sponsors River

artsfest, a popular annual festival held

on the village Green in indian head. the

inspiration & educationhistoriC sitEs, Community thEatEr and arts EvEnts dEFinE CharLEs County’s CuLturaL sCEnE

arts & culture

Above: thomas stone national historic site right: dr. samuel a. mudd house museum

bRian mccoRd

What’s online

Go to livability.com/charles-county/md

to discover more about Charles County’s

artsy activities and cultural offerings.


• Award-winningproperty• Complimentary hotbreakfast• Microwaves& refrigeratorsin everyroom• Complimentary high-speedInternet

Southern Maryland Hospitality at Its Best

Best Western Plus la Plata Inn

6900CrainHwy.,Rte.301LaPlata,MD20646

(301)934-4900•(877)356-4900

www.bestwestern.com/laplatainn

daylong event features musicians,

artists and performers from all

over maryland and attracts

2,000 visitors each year.

more historic gemsthe small town of benedict

played a big role in america’s

struggle for independence. during

the War of 1812, british troops

landed in benedict, marched to

Washington, d.c., and burned the

city. one of the best-known stories

among locals is that of dr. samuel

a. mudd, who was thrust into the

national spotlight when he mended

the leg of assassin John Wilkes

booth the day after booth shot

President abraham Lincoln. mudd

was sentenced to life in prison but

was pardoned by President andrew

Johnson in 1869. visitors can

tour the dr. samuel a. mudd

house museum, which includes

mudd’s home, a gift shop, kitchen,

exhibit building and outbuildings

on 10 acres. – Jessica Mozo sta

ff

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http://www.bestwestern.com/laplatainn

What’s online Read more about getting out and active in Charles County by visiting livability.com/charles-county/md.

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B usy bodies, rejoice. charles

county is home to many

attractions that are ideal for

outdoor enthusiasts.

Water activitiesthe county is surrounded

by the Potomac, Patuxent and

Wicomico rivers, making it ideal

for boating, fishing, water skiing,

tubing, canoeing and kayaking.

the Potomac River is recognized

as a world-class place to fish

for largemouth bass, and is also

a great place for blue catfish

and stripers.

meanwhile, the region’s overall

system of rivers and lakes is a

hotbed for all kinds of paddling

and pedaling. visitors can explore

on their own or take guided tours.

those looking for an extra

special day on the river can paddle

to mallows bay, home to the largest

shipwrecked fleet in the Western

hemisphere. approximately 150

abandoned World War i ships have

been there since 1920, partially

submerged in the bay and only

accessible by canoe or kayak.

Parks and recreationthe charles county Parks &

Recreation division oversees 13

public parks. some of the most

visited are Gilbert Run Park,

Laurel springs Regional Park,

mallows bay Park and White

Plains Regional Park.

during summer months, the

department operates outdoor

pools at La Plata, mcdonough and

thomas stone. besides swimming,

the facilities have programs such

as swim lessons, pool rentals, water

(301) 934-9505(301) 932-1774 (301) 934-8331

Five Miles South of La Plata Eight Miles North of Harry Nice Bridge

25 Miles South of D.C. Beltway Near Maryland

International Raceway

Air Conditioned • Satellite TV

Wireless Internet • Direct-Dial Telephones

Swimming Pool • Grill & Picnic Areas

Microwaves & Refrigerators

Secured Parking for Bass Boaters & Racers

American Owned and Operated

“All the Comforts of Home”

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9295 Crain Hwy. (Route 301) Bel Alton, Maryland 20611

sports & Recreation

Play it againGEt outdoors For GrEat GoLF, parks and Fun on thE WatEr

aerobics and lifeguard training.

as for sports, the division

coordinates outdoor leagues for

men’s softball, coed softball, men’s

soccer, women’s soccer, youth

soccer, and youth tackle football

and cheerleading. the county

also offers hiking and biking

options including the indian

head Rail trail that features an

old railway renovated into a paved

walkway. maxwell hall Park also

has a 14-mile trail open to hikers

along with horseback riders.

in addition, outdoor adventurers

can visit charles county’s Purse

state Park, which offers hunting,

fishing, birding and fossil hunting.

golFcharles county provides three

opportunities to grip it and rip it. the premier area course is White Plains Golf course at White Plains Regional Park, which stays true to its claim of being a public course with the playing conditions of a private course.

other venues are atlantic Golf at Potomac Ridge in Waldorf and hawthorne country club in La Plata. two more destinations in neighboring areas are Wicomico shores Golf course in mechanicsville and national Golf club at tantalion in fort Washington. – Kevin Litwin

White plains Golf Course at White plains regional park


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Charles County Nursing Rehabilitation Center www.ccnrc.com

Charles County Public Librarywww.ccplonline.org

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Civista Healthwww.civista.org

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Authorized fActory sAles & service

Residential • CommeRCial

(301) 645-7071 or (301) 843-0300

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When companies locate

or relocate to a community,

a key factor in their search can be

whether there is a strong education

system in place. charles county

gets high marks in that area,

thanks to charles county Public

schools, private schools and the

college of southern maryland.

charles county Public schools

ccPs is one of the fastest

growing school systems in

maryland, with 26,778 students

enrolled for the 2011-12 school

year. the district has 39 schools

and education centers including

21 elementary schools, and employs

3,469 people, with 2,041 teachers;

1,113 support staff; 72 technical

employees; and 243 administrators.

technically sPeakingthe school system is also using

technology to enhance instruction.

schools offer wireless internet

access, while the advancement of

a science, technology, engineering

and mathematics program keeps

the school system moving forward.

for example, north Point high

school for science, technology

and industry provides state-of-

the-art equipment, classrooms,

training and instruction to equip

students for several in-demand

career fields. the school system

plans to infuse the same technology

into its older schools and improve

offerings at all high schools

including a new facility – st. charles

high school (scheduled to open

in august 2013) – that will contain

a digital classroom and focus on

natural resources management

and environmental technology.

Private schoolsin bryantown, st. mary’s

school has an enrollment of 225

and accommodates students in

prekindergarten through eighth

grade. Waldorf is home to Grace

christian academy of maryland

that features prekindergarten

through grade 12. White Plains

has southern maryland christian

academy, with classrooms from

prekindergarten through grade

12. in La Plata, a special education

facility called high Road school

of southern maryland is for

students in grades 4-12.

college oF southern maryland

those seeking higher education

can find classes at the college of

southern maryland, which has four

campuses in charles, calvert and

st. mary’s counties and a total

enrollment of more than 22,000

students. csm offers more than

130 programs of study including

associate degrees, certificates,

online programs and continuing

education programs. students can

earn a four-year degree through

csm partnerships with other

colleges and universities.

one of the crown jewels on

the csm campus is a new center

for trades and energy training,

which puts students onto a job

training fast track for high-paying

careers. the center also provides

ongoing employee training and

development for existing local

companies. – Kevin Litwin

meeting the testCommunity proud oF stronG EduCation systEm

education

the Fine arts Center on the campus of the College of southern maryland in La plata

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At Swan Point, our goal is to ensure that your experience is more than you expected. Whether you are enjoying 18 holes of golf or celebrating your wedding, you deserve the finest. We specialize in corporate and charity golf

outings from four to 144. Our beautiful banquet facilities, meeting rooms and on-site catering are unmatched. Come see for yourself Charles County’s best-kept secret. Call (301) 259-0047 ext.12 for more information. Schedule your own Swan Point experience.

www.SwanPointGolf.com

There are places that simply must be experienced …

www.choicehotels.com/hotels/md109

11765 Business Park Dr. Waldorf, MD 20601

Phone: (301) 932-4400

Fax: (301) 932-7566

Email: [email protected]

WALDORF COMFORT SUITES

Cynthia Brown Real Estate Manager

Sales, Leasing & Property Management

14145 Brandywine Rd. Brandywine, MD 20613

(301) 372-2943 Toll-free: (877) 492-8419

Cell: (301) 643-0350 Fax: (301) 782-7463

[email protected]

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Country Furniture of Waldorf Inc.

Randy & Odette Bowen – Owners

Hours: Mon.-sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

3255 Leonardtown rd. • Waldorf, MD 20602 (301) 843-0031 • (301) 645-2051 Fax

Visit us at www.marylandwoodfurniture.com

Woman Owned & Managed

Termite Inspections & Treatments

Pest Control

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Rodent Control

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Bed Bugs

Serving Charles, Calvert, St. Mary’s and PG Counties

Green Services Available (301) 609-9300 • (410) 257-0077

MD License #26844

(301) 934-1477

112 Charles St. • La Plata, MD 20646www.childrenslearningtree.com

Living green is making sure the air in your home is healthy for your family to breathe. Test your home for radon and build radon-resistant.

It's easy. That's living healthy and green.

Just call 866-730-green or visit www.epa.gov/radon

Living greenstarts from the ground up.



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houSehold inFormATion

142,226total population

mAriTAl STATuS:

56%married

44%single

Age:

37median resident age

28%age 19 and under

48%age 20-54

24%age 55 and over

55%White

800-617-751119 Branches of

Superior ServiceMaryland’s Premier Community Bank

this sECtion is sponsorEd by

SnApShoTcharles county, the hidden gem of southern maryland for

350 years, has a rich abundance of history, culture and outdoor

activities. it offers easy access to Washington, d.c., and quality

education and health care.

CommuniTy proFile

ClimATe

summers in charles county

are generally hot and humid

with occasional thunderstorms.

Winters are generally mild

with variable precipitation.

86˚Fsummer high temperature

26˚FWinter Low temperature

44”annual rain Fall (vs. national average annual rain Fall of 37”)

34%black

3%hispanic

8%other

Time zone

eastern

Size in SquAre mileS

643CoST oF living

$78,264median household income

$375,000average home price

$1,434median rent for a two-bedroom apartment


www.oldlinebank.com

Ad Index 38 ArrowAmericAn

Pestcontrol

33 BestwesternPlus

38 BrAndywine

investment

ProPertiesllc

29 chArlescounty

dePArtmentofheAlth

31 chArlescountynursing

rehABilitAtioncenter

5 chArlescounty

PuBlicliBrAry

38 children’sleArningtree

c4 civistAheAlth

38 comfortsuites

38 countryfurniture ofwAldorfinc.

2 fAcchinAconstruction

c2 genonenergy

8 gPhomes

23 grAcelutherAn church&school

36 JosonfineJewelry &homeBoutique

35 motelBelAlton

Ad Index (cont.) 39 oldlineBAnk

36 PotterheAting &electricinc.

1 southernmArylAnd electriccooPerAtive

c3 southern mArylAndhosPitAl

23 suBurBAnProPAne

38 swAnPointyAcht &countrycluB

24 thewAshington sAvingsBAnk

29 townofindiAnheAd

through the Lens

on one of my recent trips,

i found myself about 30 miles

southeast of Washington, d.c.,

in charles county, md.

as you drive through charles

county, you come across a lot of

historic churches. i couldn’t turn

a corner without coming across

a church that wasn’t nearly as

old as our country, if not older.

for instance, st. ignatius

church in Port tobacco was

founded in 1641 and is the oldest

catholic Parish in continuous

service in the united states.

the church and cemetery are

beautiful by themselves. but the

church’s founders could not have

found a more picturesque setting.

st. ignatius sits on a hill overlooking

the Port tobacco River, which

is a perfect position to catch the

evening glow of the setting sun.

From our Photo blog: charles county

Posted by todd bennett

more online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at photoblog.jnlcom.com.

now that you’ve experienced charles county through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. visit photoblog.jnlcom.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments.

get the story behind the Photo

40 CharLEs Count y

SouthernMarylandHospital.com

Civista.org/Images

images charles county, md: 2012

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