CLINTON COLUMN FOR NOVEMBER 18, 2004

            Although the Navy Yard is not an impressive looking place, there is no doubt that they can put on a wonderful show.  I was privileged to attend the Retirement Ceremony for Rear Admiral Michael Lohr, as the new Judge Advocate General for the Navy, Rear Admiral James E. McPherson, was given orders to take over the job on November 10.  It was a beautiful sunny, though a little chilly, day.  The Navy Band played their best, many of the songs, special for the day, and most especially, the rendition of “Thanks for the Memories,” which we knew was meant for Michael.  The ceremony was played out in the open, on the big field that holds the center of the complex.  Most of the speeches were short, and all of them showed how much Michael was loved by those who have worked with him.  It was obvious how proud his family was of him, and we all wish Michael a very well and happy retirement.

            The Navy Yard is holding a free exhibit of the CSS Alabama bell to January 16.  Hours are Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm and on weekends and holidays from 10 am to 5 pm.  Appointments are required, so call them at 202-433-6897, or go to www.history.navy.mil.

            Every 53 hours in America, a law enforcement officer gives his or her life to protect our safety and security.  Each of these fallen heroes is honored at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.  This Memorial is a richly deserved tribute to more than 16,000 officers who have died in the line of duty.  For those whom the fallen leave behind, the Memorial is a solemn and sacred place.  It is where the men and women who place our safety and welfare above their own are honored and respected.  The Memorial focuses on the end of the story, but, as one law enforcement leader recently said “we need to tell the rest of the story.”  It is hoped this will happen with the building of the new National Law Enforcement Museum.  The Museum’s concept design has recently been approved, and it is on track to open in 2009.  If you would like to help in any way, please call them at 202-737-3400 or write to NLEOMF Offices, 400 – 7^th St., NW, Suite 300, Washington DC, 20004.  For your information, this Memorial charges no admission and receives no government or taxpayer support.

            The Indian Head Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad Ladies Auxiliary is holding its Christmas Craft Fair this Saturday.  Call 301-753-9722 or 301-743-7203.

            The Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department Ladies and Rescue Squad auxiliary is sponsoring their 9^th annual Craft Show in the VFD social hall on November 21.  Call 301-373-3028 for more information.

            The Northern Music Boosters seeks crafters for its 2004 Holiday Craft Bazaar, to be held on December 11 from 10 am to 3 pm at Northern High School in Owings. Call 410-257-1519 for more information.

            The Sheriff’s Office in St. Mary’s County is looking for volunteers.  If you are a retiree, this might be the job you are looking for.  Call them at 301-475-4200, ext. 1936.

            The Charles County Homeless and Emergency Shelter Committee is holding a Walk to End Homelessness on Saturday, November 20,at 9 am, with registration at 7:30 am, beginning at LaPlata Town Hall.  Teams are welcome.  Proceeds will benefit services for the homes in Charles County.  To register, call 301-609-4844, and for information, call 301-609-9900.

            The Friends of Calvert Hospice is seeking vendors for the 16^th annual Festival of Trees, to be held from November 26 to 28 at Patuxent High School in Lusby.  For more information, call them at 410-286-3333 or 410-535-5640.

            Much sympathy is extended to the family of Bill Tippett of Accokeek, who died this past week.  Bill was a long time member of Faith United Methodist Church, along with his wife, Daphene, who predeceased him.  The two of them were married something like 65 years before Daphene died, so I know they are happy to be together again.

            PC Seniors/SeniorNet at Collington Episcopal Life Care Retirement Community in Mitchellville is offering basic and advanced computer classes for seniors to April 2005.  Call 301-925-7571 for more information.

            Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.