A Tribute to Charlie
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Some may define a town by its government officials and its budget for residential services, but the real meaning of a town is found in the people who live there.
Charlie Endzel was an important person who lived in our town for the greatest part of his life. He was 11 years old when he moved here with his family and he spent his boyhood getting into the normal things boys do. His sister remembers the winter day he came home soaking wet and half frozen--he had just tried out the ice on the lily pond that still existed behind the mansion and he fell through a thin spot. But Charlie survived that escapade and served in the U. S. Army during the Korean War.
Following his military service, Charlie returned to Maryland and married and, when he decided to open a graphic arts studio and buy a house, he chose Riverdale Park as the location for the business and the place he wanted to live.
Many longtime residents may have a copy of the town's fiftieth anniversary publication--the Golden Panorama book. It is in large part thanks to Charlie Endzel that this book was published. Working with town officials and volunteers, Charlie donated the services of his studio to the project and used his experience in printing and layout to produce a quality product. The Golden Panorama book was the first time the town's history was recorded and without it many memories and photographs would have been lost forever.
The town seal was designed by Charlie and portrays what he found of special significance in the town--Riversdale, a train engine, the first schoolhouse, the twin bridges (which once spanned the Northeast Branch) and trees. Today that seal continues to be a graphic identity for the town and its history.
When Charlie closed his business on Rhode Island Avenue two years ago, he asked me to look at the collection of office furniture he had, to decide if any items would be useful in the town office. I chose a solid table and some chairs. This was one more time that Charlie gave something back to his town.
Charlie Endzel died in March, only weeks from his 68th birthday. To his wife Jane and his family, we express our sympathy for his loss, but we also express our gratitude for the years Charlie spent here defining us as a proud town with good caring people.
Special Meeting of Seniors
On Tuesday, April 5 at 11:00 a.m., Erin Clem, Director of Admissions at the Crescent Cities Center (formerly Leland Hospital) will speak to the Seniors Club. Ms. Clem will describe the services offered at this new facility including the public cafeteria and meeting room space which will be made available to organizations. All interested persons are invited to attend this meeting (you do not have to be a member of the club).
Neighborhood Watch
Residents interested in participating in Neighborhood Watch should call the town office (301)927-6381 to leave their name and telephone number. As a member of this group, you would be scheduled only once a month and would be equipped with radios, flashlights and vests for your use as you walk around the town's neighborhoods.
This page was last changed on Friday, April 23, 1999. Questions, comments, or submissions? See the Website Committee web page. This page has been accessed 4394 times.