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Sam, a grandson of Joe Chmelik (22) had a rare experience.  Our youngest son, Tony, CEO of Chesky Construction here in Frederick and the father of ten children (the eleventh is due in May) has been doing the restoration (in conjunction with St. Joseph's Carpentry) of St. John's Episcopal Church, built in 1815, and across the street from the White House. Every President since that time has attended at least one service there. President-elect Obama will be there on January 20th. Last Sunday Tony had to deliver some things to the church and took his son Sam with him. President Bush happened to be at the service so they stayed for the service. At the conclusion of his homily, the Pastor introduced Tony to the congregation. He and Sam were sitting near the President. When the service ended the President went to shake Tony's hand, congratulate him on the fine job his men had done, and to ask him if he was the father all ten children. Indeed he was/is. So, Tony asked if the President would pose for a picture with Sam. The president said "Let's go outside and do that." Interestingly, Tony and his wife Becky are very devout Catholics, certainly among the most devout in the family. Tony attended a seminary for three years before discovering girls. We are all glad that he and Sam stayed for the Episcopal service. It is unlikely he will become an evangelical Protestant. Joe Chmelik
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