From the daily archives: "Tuesday, February 26, 2019"

James Rada, Jr.

Thurmont businesses are beginning to be recognized as some of the best in Frederick County. The Frederick News-Post’s annual “Best of the Best” contest recognized 183 county businesses in 14 categories as being the “Best of the Best.” Each year, the community nominates and votes for their favorite businesses.

At a town meeting where the local businesses were recognized, Economic Development Director Vickie Grinder said, “Traditionally Frederick had held all the winners; but in the last couple of years, several years, that has been changing.”

Grinder recognized these local winners with a “You Make Thurmont Proud” Award.

Cunningham Falls State Park won awards for Best Place to Camp (Regional) and Best Place for a First Date (Non-Food). “It’s a great partnership we have with Thurmont, and we’re growing with Thurmont,” said Mark Spurrier, park manager.

Dr. Jon A. Moles with Gateway Orthodontics won Best Orthodontist. He said, “To make it to the final five, and then to actually be the best comes from the community.” He said opening his practice in Thurmont was the best decision he ever made.

Stauffer Funeral Home, PA, won Best Funeral Home.

Hawkins Landscaping won Best Landscaping Company. Eric Hawkins said, “For so many years, we used to think we had to go to Montgomery County, and we did, and we beat that road. Little did we know we had all the support we needed right here, locally.”

Baker Tree Services won Best Tree Service Company.

Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery won Best Wedding Venue and Best Winery: Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery. Amy with Springfield Manor said, “Thurmont is such a small place, but look how mighty we are. We snagged a lot of the big awards.”

The Frederick County Office of Economic Development also listed a report of the top 50 CEOs in the county. Two Thurmont CEOs—David Hawkins, Jr. with Hawkins Landscaping and Jeff Barber with Playground Specialists—were among the list of top Frederick County executives. Grinder also awarded them “You Make Thurmont Proud” Awards.

On Tuesday, February 6, 2019, at the Town meeting, several Thurmont businesses were given the “You Make Thurmont Proud” Award for winning the 2018 Frederick News-Post “Best of the Best.”

James Rada, Jr.

The Emmitsburg Commissioners began a review of proposed changes to the town’s sign ordinance. The ordinance is undergoing major re-work, and the review will take place over three meetings. The next two town meetings this month, as well as in April, will be when the discussion is continued. The public is encouraged to let the commissioners know their opinions about the proposed changes so that their input can be taken into consideration.

The changes are needed in order to update the ordinance to deal with new technology and to comply with recent state and federal legal cases involving signage. Town Planner Zach Gulden told the commissioners that in one case the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that sign ordinances needed to be “content neutral.”

“If your code enforcement officer has to read the sign in order to determine whether a regulation applies, the ordinance provision will likely be subject to a challenge,” he said. He also pointed out that the current town sign ordinance might possibly fail that test because it treats civic and nonprofit signage differently than commercial signage.

One change suggested is to move the sign ordinance from its current location in the town code into the zoning ordinance.

“This will allow the Planning Commission to review and comment on the proposed amendment, and it will allow businesses and residents the opportunity to apply for zoning variances if the property has a unique hardship not recognized by the sign code,” Gulden said.

This first session looked at the proposed types of signs that would be allowed and prohibited. These changes and other proposed changes are based on other sign ordinances around the state.

Sign types such as abandoned signs were obvious choices for prohibited signs. Other types, such as reflective and animated signs, were included because they can lead to distracted driving.

Prohibiting neon signs raised concern among the commissioners. “That one’s just jumping out at me,” said Commissioner Joseph Ritz, III.

Gulden said that whether or not to include neon signs was up to the commissioners, but he pointed out that buildings with neon signage are not eligible for Community Legacy Grants.

Signs that would be allowed under the proposed ordinance include traffic signs, holiday/seasonal decorations, personal expression signs, security signs, flags, arts and murals, legal notices, and temporary signs.

During a February Town meeting, owners of three local businesses (Emmitsburg Tattoo, The Ott House, and Total Look Hair Salon) spoke to express how restrictions on signage would affect their businesses.

Town Manager Cathy Willets told the commissioners that she feels they will find that the changes, taken as a whole, are far less restrictive than the current sign ordinance.

No actions were taken on the proposed changes during the February meeting. The review of the changes continues during the March 4 and April 1 meetings of the town commissioners. Residents and business owners are invited to voice their opinions about the changes at these meetings.  

“We’re really going to dig deep into the details in the next two meetings,” Gulden said.

Even if existing legal signage does not comply with whatever the town commissioners eventually pass, the existing signage will be grandfathered in and allowed to continue unchanged.

Emmitsburg Commissioners are conducting a sign ordinance review to deal with new technology and to comply with recent state and federal legal cases involving signage.

James Rada, Jr.

Last year was a wet one for the region, with about twice as much rain as typical. With two months under our belts in 2019, are things back to normal?

Despite the couple days of arctic cold and then higher-than-typical warms, the days have been relatively balanced, with just as many days with temperatures above average as below.

The quick-changing temperatures have caused some problems, though.

“The freeze and thaw can cause ground movement, and it doesn’t take much movement to crack a water line,” said Thurmont Chief Administrative Officer Jim Humerick.

Thurmont has had two water main breaks in 2019. Humerick said that, luckily, they weren’t significant, and the town crews were able to locate and repair them quickly.

Emmitsburg’s Town Manager Cathy Willets stated that no town-owned water lines have frozen, although a few private citizens had problems. There has also been no increased pot holes in roads due to the freezing, thawing, and the use of snow melt chemicals.

Rain and snow is also tracking with the area average so far, although this may vary depending on where you measure. It is nowhere near twice as much as the average.

“Emmitsburg’s been faring pretty well with the weather,” Willets said.

Since January, Humerick said, “It’s been a few things you would typically expect to happen in the winter.”

Now that we are entering springtime, the worries about snow will end, and we’ll start to worry about making sure we have enough rainfall to maintain the water levels in municipal wells.

by James Rada, Jr.

Emmitsburg

February 2019 Meeting

Commissioners Begin Sign Ordinance Review

The Emmitsburg Commissioners began a review of the town’s new sign ordinance. The ordinance is undergoing major rework and the review will take place over three meetings.

Free Parking Donations

The Town of Emmitsburg announced that the parking meter revenue collected during the holiday season amounted to a $300 donation to the Community Day fireworks show and the Emmitsburg Food Bank.

Work Contracts Awarded

The Emmitsburg Commissioners voted to award Zest, LLC, of Clarksville a $15,912 contract to perform a hydrologic analysis of the Rainbow Lake dam to determine if work needs to be done on it. The Maryland Department of the Environment is requiring this analysis.

The commissioners also awarded RK&K a $203,380 contract to design the new pumping station. Town Manager Cathy Willets said that the town worked with the company previously on the wastewater treatment plant. They brought that project in under budget and with limited change orders. In addition, RK&K is guaranteeing not to exceed their quoted cost for the pumping station.

Finally, the commissioners chose to award RSV Pools a three-year contract for the pool management. Despite some reservations with RSV Pools, there was only one other bidder and RSV Pools had the lowest bid.

Commissioners Allocate Excess Funds

At the close of the FY2018 budget, the Town of Emmitsburg had a $152,758 surplus. The commissioners voted to allocate these funds to a number of capital projects: 300A South Seton signage, a mandated stormwater management project, a storm drain excavation, park equipment upgrades, sending old documents to Sure Scan, a disc golf course in Community Park, a Rainbow Lake engineering study, parking meter equipment, sled dogs, salt spreaders, and a utility ATV. In some cases, the amount set aside won’t fully fund the project, but either pays the matching part of a grant or starts saving for the project.

Town Trail Work Days

Commissioner Tim O’Donnell selected three days for work on the town trails with volunteers from the town. The days are April 7, May 5, and June 22. The goal is to get the trails in shape for Community Day and for the summer.

Thurmont

February 2019 Meeting

Local Businesses Awarded for Making Thurmont Proud

Economic Development Director Vickie Grinder recognized local businesses who won Frederick’s Best of the Best Contest in the Frederick News Post.

Town Approves Directional Signs

The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners awarded Shannon Baum of Eldersburg a $24,600 contract to produce twelve wayfinding signs, which she also designed. The signs, which will be paid for with grants from the Maryland Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area and Frederick County Tourism, are similar to the new “Welcome to Thurmont” signs. Town staff should have the new sign installed by May.

The town will also seek funding for two additional “Welcome to Thurmont” signs.

Nature Trail Planned for Library

A new nature trail will be constructed on the property of the Thurmont Regional Library through the efforts of the Catoctin Forest Alliance, Town of Thurmont, Thurmont Regional Library, Thurmont Green Team, Frederick County Public Schools SUCCESS Program, and volunteers. The ADA-compliant trail will include butterfly habitat, bird houses, and bat boxes. Cameras will also stream video to a screen in the children’s area of the library.

Although the surface is currently planned to be crushed stone, the commissioners are planning to request that the surface be made blacktop and included in Frederick County’s Capital Improvement Plan.

This new trail can also be connected to the Thurmont Trolley Trail and the Thurmont Gateway Trail. If this happens, people will be able to walk from the library to the Catoctin Mountain Park Visitor Center.

Emmitsburg Mayor Don Briggs

Teased, better yet, taunted by a 65-degree day, not once, but twice, had me calling out, “Hey, show me some robins!” Alas, none were to be seen, but there were voices, then sightings of returning redwing blackbirds—no wing coloring yet—to join the seasonal regulars: cardinals, titmice, chickadees, finches, nuthatches, mourning doves, and wrens, especially those who winter their nights under the eaves of our porch. Also, the visiting of jays and cameos (unfortunately, not on demand) from area attracted woodpeckers—the downy, hairy and red-bellied. All attracted by Mrs. Lib’s feeding stations here and wherever we have lived. Missed dearly from our farm days are red-headed woodpeckers, sapsuckers, and common flickers. We are anxiously awaiting our summer visitors, the catbirds and mockingbirds drawn to an old mulberry tree and Mrs. Lib’s sliced grapes.

We really miss Zurgables for the convenient purchase of birdseed for Mrs. Lib’s backyard guests, but it was time for Mark to step back. Thank you for your service to our community, and we tip our hats to you. We are still helping keep Jubilee going with ample shelled peanut purchases for the squirrels and jays.

President’s Day marked our annual mid-late national observance to our Aquarian February. So, a good time to add a tribute to the day to the many. This one is from the author of War and Peace, Leo Tolstoy, who wrote some forty-five years after the assassination of Lincoln, “The greatness of Napoleon, Caesar, or Washington is only moonlight by the sun of Lincoln.”

At our last town meeting, our planner, Zach Gulden, introduced an update to our sign ordinance, the first of three planned consecutive presentations. The update is recommended, “Due to modern technological advances and recent Federal Supreme Court cases. The proposed amendment seeks to meet the needs of businesses and other organizations while protecting and enhancing the visual quality and traditional design concepts of Emmitsburg.” The business audience was engaging.

Mr. Gulden also presented the “MS4” town compliance update. MS4 is the handle for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems. “The town is identified as an urbanized area and is mandated by the Environment Protection Agency and State of Maryland Department of the Environment to hold a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. Our current permit is valid from 2018-2023. This is an unfunded mandate, which means we must meet the permit requirements with no funding help from the state or federal governments. The town may be fined up to $100,000 per day if the permit requirements are not met. The most costly requirement of the NPDES permit is treating at least 20 percent of the town’s impervious surface stormwater runoff every five years. The following are acceptable restoration strategies for receiving impervious area restoration credit: new stormwater ponds, existing stormwater pond retrofits (such as converting a dry pond to a wetland or providing additional water storage), restoring failed stormwater ponds, street sweeping, buffer planting, reforestation, stream restoration, inlet cleaning, shoreline stabilization, and others. Town staff is researching stream restoration projects and grant funding opportunities to meet this term’s permit needs. Staff projects the NPDES permit could cost the Town at least $500,000 every five years. That is certainly imposing as yet another mandate.

To our benefit, as I mentioned last month, is our timber asset and the town will be submitting requests for grant assistance.

New business development: (1) preliminary plans have been received for a Rutters gas and convenience store on part of the 200+ acres undeveloped within town limits on the east side of US 15. Yes, a Rutters may return to town, but this time on a much larger scale. This initial development will bring water and sewer to that area that could open the area to more commercial development. Additionally, there are preliminary plans for a retail commercial building on Silo Hill Parkway next to the car wash. Also the town-owned property on South Seton Avenue is being changed from residential to commercial (as allowed) and now being offered for rent.

We are not losing our mind, prices are rising. From an article in the Saturday, February 16, 2019, Wall Street Journal, “The Price of a Clean House” confirms our suspicions. The article tracked prices of several top-selling brands for everyday use household goods for the January 2018-January 2019 period. Manufacturers cited increased costs of production and delivery. By the way, more cost increases are expected to come this year… Kleenex 160-count tissues rectangular box, price bump 8.4 percent. Bounty Size-a-Super Roll 6 pack, price bump 19.4 percent. Huggies 112-count, size 4, disposable diapers up 1.9 percent. Glad Force Flex 13-gallon kitchen bags, 140 count, price bump 4.5 percent.

Ambivalent in its cadence, is the tempered assurance that spring will “stick the landing” once again. Unpredictable as to specifically when and how, there is always the predictability that it will be. The seasons do come with a wonderful rhythm. Let’s take care of it.

Thurmont Mayor John Kinnaird

Recent snowfall has dashed any hopes of an early spring, but it is coming. In the meantime, a few thoughts when it snows: If you can get your car off the road, please do so, it helps our snowplows; Don’t shovel driveway aprons until our snow plows go past; Do be careful when driving close to snow plows; Keep an eye on your elderly neighbors when it gets really cold or we get snow and ice; Be sure your kids are dressed appropriately for the cold or snow; Make sure your pets are indoors during extreme cold or make sure they have ample shelter with fresh water and food. Snow can be fun, but it can also be very hazardous. Please remember to call 911 for all medical, fire, or rescue emergencies. Thurmont residents should call 301-271-7313 to report any water, electric, or sewer emergencies. Use the same number after hours and follow the instructions for reporting an emergency.

The next months will bring some great local events to Thurmont, courtesy of Thurmont Main Street. Get a head start on your own wellbeing at the 2nd Annual Zumbathon, being held on Sunday, April 7, at the Thurmont American Legion, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Proceeds from this event will help support Thurmont’s Gateway to the Cure 2019. On Saturday, April 27, be sure to attend the Thurmont Business Showcase, from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Thurmont Event Complex. This well-attended annual event features many local businesses and nonprofits and gives you the chance to discover local businesses, services, and products of which you may not have been aware. Bring your family and friends to the Thurmont Event Complex at 13716 Strafford Drive for this wonderful event. If you are looking for some outdoor fun, head out to the 1st Annual Gateway to the Cure Golf Tournament, being held at Maple Run Golf Course on June 21. Keep an eye open for further details on this local golfing event at Thurmont’s own Maple Run Golf Course.

There are lots of projects planned for the Thurmont area this coming year, from a third pavilion at the community park, new lighting in the trolley trail, to new wayfaring signs around town. Cunningham Falls State Park is in the process of making some great improvements to the facilities at the lake and at the Manor area. New restrooms, picnic facilities, beach improvements, enhanced entrance facilities, a new outdoor center, and several other projects are in the works. These improvements may have an impact on park accessibility during the summer, and officials ask for your understanding—the improvements will be worth the inconvenience!

I hope everyone has a wonderful March, and we are all looking forward to warmer spring weather when we can get back outside to enjoy all Thurmont has to offer!

As always, please call me at 301-606-9458 or email me at jkinnaird@thurmont.com with any questions, comments or suggestions. You can also follow my Facebook page for updates on local issues or upcoming events.

Local travel advisor, Barb Cline (pictured above) of Barb Cline Travel, earned the elite Millionaires Club status with Cruise Planners®, an American Express Travel Representative, the nation’s largest and most-awarded travel advisor network.

As a member of the recently announced 2019 Millionaires Club, Cline is recognized as a top-producing travel advisor for Cruise Planners. She has been a full-service travel advisor in the Frederick area since 2009, specializing in Alaska, Europe, River Cruising, Multi-Generational Travel, and escorting groups all over the world!

Cruise Planners franchise owner, Cline, who plans customized vacations and specializes in personal and professional travel services is a member of the network’s 2019 Millionaires Club.

As a full-service travel agent, Cline is dedicated to offering superior customer service and planning customized cruise, land, and resort vacations for her clients. When people book through Cruise Planners Millionaires Club member, travelers can confidently know their vacation is being handled and managed by a proven professional. Client benefits include:

• My Trips Account — Once logged in, clients can view their past and upcoming trips, account information, specials, and more. In addition, they can submit payments for bookings and purchase travel insurance and shore excursions.

• Mobile App — The Cruise Planners Mobile App connects to clients’ My Trips accounts, giving them information about their upcoming trips and allowing them to book new cruises. It’s available for Androids and iPhones – Google Play and Apple App Store.

• Voice-Activated Alexa skills — Travelers have the ability to link their My Trips accounts to Amazon Alexa, letting Alexa provide important information about the upcoming trips.

• Price Tracker — Cruise Planners travel advisors’ system will continually check for any fare reductions on a clients’ cruise bookings, potentially saving clients’ money or giving them access to upgraded cabin types.

“As a Cruise Planners travel professional, I am also a small business owner and entrepreneur, dedicated to ensuring every customer has a personalized and memorable travel experience,” said Cline. “As an experienced, award-winning travel advisor, travelers will benefit from my years of expertise and trust that I will provide them the best vacation planning experience.”

Travelers can discover a world of vacation possibilities by reaching out to Barb Cline at 240-575-5966 or by visiting www.BarbClineTravel.com. View the advertisement on page 40.

The Classmates4Life Foundation invites students at all levels—elementary, middle, and high schools—to enter a video and poster contest called Classmates4Life to curb drug abuse.

Contest creator and founder Billy Shreve says, “Drug abuse continues to be a serious problem in our county, our state, and our nation. Our community needs to do everything possible to make sure our young people are aware of the dangers of drugs. It’s also important that kids have the loudest voices rallying against drug abuse. The Classmates4Life video and poster contest is a creative approach to help make that happen.”

The contest is intended to send a message that preventing drug abuse is one of our county’s highest priorities. Several local organizations and businesses are collaborating as sponsors in the contest: Frederick County Public Schools, the Frederick County Health Department, Rotary Clubs of Frederick County, the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, the PTA of Frederick County, the YMCA, Frederick Memorial Hospital, Frederick Community College, and Wells House.

The goal for students is to produce a creative video, 30-60 seconds long, that highlights drug-abuse danger and motivates their peers to choose life. The videos should answer one of two questions: at the elementary level, “How are drugs bad?”; at the secondary level, “How can drugs wreck your world?” Videos are due by Thursday, April 4, 2019.

This year, students are also invited to submit posters that capture the same anti-drug message. Posters, also due by Thursday, April 4, can be dropped off at the FCPS Central Office, located at 191 S. East Street in Frederick or at their school’s main office. The public can view each entry and vote on YouTube by clicking the thumbs up symbol for the one they deem best. Voting will take place from April 4-14. An expert panel of judges will also review the entries. Winners will receive prizes and attend a “red carpet” awards ceremony and resource fair at Frederick High School on Monday, April 15.

Prizes include: iPhone, GoPro, tickets to a Frederick Keys game, pool parties, pizza, and more. Classmates4Life began in 2016 and has over 74,000 views on YouTube. The most viewed video has 3,300 views.

Hayden Hahn of Thurmont (pictured above) has earned the National Junior Angus Association’s (NJAA) Bronze and Silver awards, according to Jaclyn Upperman, education and events director of the American Angus Association® in Saint Joseph, Missouri.

Hahn is the ten-year-old daughter of Chad and Nikki Hahn. She attends Thurmont Elementary School and is a member of the NJAA and the Maryland Junior Angus Association.

She has participated in local, state, regional, and national shows and showmanship contests. At the National Junior Angus Show (NJAS), Hahn participated in the photography, livestock judging, skillathon, quiz bowl, and poster contests. She also participated in the mentoring program in 2016.

She has submitted weight data to the Angus Herd Improvement Records (AHIR®) and consigned cattle at the Maryland Angus Event.

The Bronze and Silver awards are the first two levels of the NJAA Recognition Program that began in 1972. Junior Angus breeders must apply for the awards, then meet point requirements in many areas of participation before receiving the honors. Applicants are evaluated in areas of junior Angus association activities and leadership, participation in showmanship, contests and shows, using performance testing to improve their herd, and their progress in producing and merchandising Angus cattle.

The NJAA promotes the involvement of young people in raising Angus cattle, while also providing leadership and self-development opportunities for the nearly 6,000 active members nationwide.

Blair Garrett

In a town entrenched in fire history, training, and safety lies a facility dedicated to the preservation and protection of valuable fire information and memorabilia.

Between the vintage fire trucks and hand-pulled hose wagons, the development in fire protection has come a long way over the past century. 

The advances in sprinkler technology, in particular, have revolutionized the way homes are protected, and often times prevented from extensive fire damage.

There are a few different types of sprinklers that have become popularized for residential and industrial use over the years. The pendent sprinkler, similar in appearance to a pendent necklace, hangs down from the ceiling to disperse water across the room, dousing flames and giving civilians ample time to safely escape.

The sidewall sprinkler, true to its name, fights fires in a wall-mounted position.

The upright sprinkler, fit with a design to avoid being knocked around or damaged by ladders or moving parts, is commonly found in industrial workplaces and is fit with a dry system to prevent the water from freezing in a time of need.

All of these different, but necessary, designs operate similarly, but are uniquely fit to provide protection in all sorts of situations. Several of these sprinklers are on display inside a built-to-scale model home in the Vigilant Fire Company. 

The importance of the sprinkler system has been cemented in the history of fire safety, but it has never been more prevalent in society and more important than it is today. With the apex of technology at its peak, there are more fire hazards in residential and industrial settings than ever before. 

“Everything inside of an office or a home is all extremely combustible and very toxic when it burns,” National Fire Heritage Center Historian Wayne Powell said. “Today, everything is basically gasoline in a solid state.”

Fortunately, the advances in technology have left us with a virtually fail-proof way of protecting the lives of citizens, as well as firefighters arriving on scene to battle flames. “There has never been a sprinkler system that has failed if it was properly designed, properly installed, and properly maintained,” Powell said.

While fire protection and prevention laws are not perfect, much has been done over the years to implement life-saving utilities, particularly in Maryland. “If you were to buy a home in Maryland, you would have to put in a fire sprinkler system,” stated Powell.

The same goes for new businesses, which have regulations set in place to protect workers, with functional, monitored sprinkler systems; because, without them, first responders cannot always arrive on scene before the real damage occurs.

“Sometimes in a fire, the people are dead before we even get the call,” Powell said. “You’ve got alarm time, response time, and set up time to attack. So, it can be a long time before we’re actually able to make an attack on the fire, and people will perish in the interim.”

The hope for the near future is to have legislation to ensure buildings are fitted with operational sprinklers and maintained to a standard suitable for the protection of residents inside. The use of combustible lightweight materials for the structure of buildings is also a concern with modern architecture. 

However, it is possible sprinklers are moving in a new direction, possibly away from the standard ones found throughout the United States. Though water damage from a pendent or sidewall sprinkler is not ideal, there is nothing to save if fire is allowed to run rampant through a home.

“This is a mist head sprinkler,” NFHC Archivist Frank Schmersal said. “This is the future of sprinklers. It sprays a mist that disperses across the flames, doing less damage than the water and giving people a chance to escape.”

Although sprinkler development has been rapidly growing over the past few decades, there are still great improvements that can be made. Decade after decade, the designs and efficiency of sprinklers get better and better. One thing is for sure, while there is still work to be done, firefighters will be able to rely on sprinklers to provide them valuable rescue time for years to come.  

Wayne Powell explains the intricacies of commercial sprinkler systems.

A piece of The National Fire Heritage Center’s evolution of the sprinkler.

Mount St. Mary’s University (MSMU) President Timothy E. Trainor, Ph.D. announced today that the Bolte Family Foundation will donate $3 million to help expand and renovate the Knott Academic Center, home to the Richard J. Bolte, Sr. School of Business.

“My brothers and I, through the Bolte Family Foundation, wanted to recommit to the Bolte School in honor of our father,” said Frank Bolte, C’87. “Our father inspired us in our business to be committed to our people and to higher education. Our company’s culture emphasized community service and had a family feel, just like being at the Mount.”

Richard J. Bolte, Sr., founder of BDP International, a global logistics and transportation company, was a lifelong supporter of the Mount, serving on the university’s board of trustees and receiving an honorary doctorate degree for his service to the university in 1992. All seven of Bolte’s sons attended the Mount: Richard Bolte Jr., C’79, trustee emeritus; John Bolte, C’82; Tim Bolte, C’84, trustee; Frank Bolte, C’87; Mike Connors, C’91; Bill Connors, C’89; and Rob Bolte, C’92. Other Bolte family members who are alumni of the Mount are Sheila A. (Breschi) Bolte, C’85, Richard J. Bolte III, C’08, and Erin R. “Rosie” Bolte, C’17. The Bolte and Connors families in 2011 recognized their father, who passed away in 2006, with a generous gift to name the Richard J. Bolte, Sr. School of Business. The family sold BDP in late 2018.

“Mount St. Mary’s deeply appreciates the Bolte family’s devotion to their father’s legacy and investment in the Mount,” President Trainor said. “The Mount is experiencing student enrollment growth and academic program expansion, and this gift will assist us in creating additional classrooms, conference rooms and faculty offices as well as a Bloomberg Classroom Laboratory. The addition and renovation will also allow the Mount to develop more partnerships in areas such as logistics and forensic accounting to further our mission of creating ethical leaders who lead lives of significance.”

The $7.5 million Knott Academic Center expansion and renovation project is also expected to be supported by a more than $3 million capital grant from the state of Maryland. The project includes construction of an approximately 12,140 square foot addition and renovation of the 49,074 square foot existing building.  Work will commence this summer and is anticipated to be completed by Fall 2021. The upgrade will include enhancing the learning environment and building new classrooms, a Bloomberg Classroom Laboratory and faculty offices.

Marotta/Main Architects, based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, designed the addition and renovation plan.

In researching facts related to some fire and rescue banquet reporting recently, it almost escaped our notice that several of our community’s fire and rescue volunteers received recognition by the 2018 Frederick County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association. Some awards have been reported in The Catoctin Banner by their department but many missed our coverage. Please take a moment to congratulate the following for their dedication and service to our community.

Robert E. Albaugh of the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company received the Charles H. “Mutt” Deater Apprentice of the Year Award; David Zentz of the Vigilant Hose Company earned the Firefighter of the Year Award; the Graceham Volunteer Fire Company received a Fire/Rescue Departmental Training Award; Elyssa Cool of Vigilant Hose Company received the James H. Stavely Fire Prevention Award; James Click of Vigilant Hose Company received the Michael Wilcom Officer of the Year Award; Joshua Brotherton of the Vigilant Hose Company received the Millard M. “Mick” Mastrino Instructoe/Safety Award; Allen “Frank” Davis of the Vigilant Hose Company received the Mumma Outstanding Service Award; the Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, Inc. received the Outstanding Unit Award;

Bonny Hurley of the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company, Michael Stull of the Lewistown District Volunteer Fire Company, Paulette Mathias of the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company, and Austin E. Umbel of the Vigilant Hose Company were each inducted into the Frederick County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association’s Hall of Fame.

Congratulations to each of these dedicated public servants!

Grace Eyler

“I’m like the bird that couldn’t follow directions, and he decided to just wing it,” joked Pastor James, as he provided a light-hearted invocation for the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company’s (RRVFC) annual banquet held on January 24, 2019. Members of Company 6 filled in the RRVFC’s banquet area in Rocky Ridge, ready to enjoy the evening with friends, family and neighbors to celebrate their hard work in 2018.

RRVFC lost two members during 2018. Lenard T. King, Sr., who served as an active member of the fire company since 1968. Lenard served as a fire prevention officer for Montgomery County, as well as president of the Maryland State Fireman’s Association from 1985 to 1986. He then spent many subsequent years serving as secretary for the organization. Lenard passed away February 1st, 2018.

George Anzelone passed August 27, 2018. He joined the fire company in 2016 and the RRVFC Auxiliary in 2017. A past president of the Thurmont Senior Center, George enjoyed volunteering his time to help out where he could.

President Dale Kline, a member for fifty-four years proudly stated, “This marks our 70th year of Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company.” Rocky Ridge is currently one of five fire companies left in Frederick County, that still runs only on a volunteer status. Dale mentioned, “It might not mean a lot to a lot of you, but if you stop and think about what you have to pay in taxes if these people weren’t volunteers and this equipment was not paid for by the community, you can imagine what your tax bill would be.” He thanked the community for all of their support.

Dale reminisced on the successful fundraisers the company put on during the past year. Every year, the weather can really affect the outcome of the carnival. Fortunately, with only two nights of rain during the week-long event held at Mt. Tabor Park in Rocky Ridge, people still made their way out to grab a bite to eat. Another very successful fundraiser that is held twice a year is the Country Butchering & Breakfast. Other events that were recognized were Ridgefest, monthly Bingo, and the Santa Detail and Workshop. “It’s unbelievable what a community can do when they set their hearts and efforts to it,” said President Dale Kline.

Mrs. Betty Ann Mumma joined the President at the front of the room. As President of the Ladies Auxiliary, Betty Ann explained to the hall that this year Buddy Stover would be spearheading the “25 Club Raffle,” a dinner and drawing to benefit the fire company. This past year, the auxiliary cut back on the bingo events and that impacted the amount of money that was raised. “We plan to bounce back this year,” Betty Ann said with a big smile.  She then presented President Kline with a check for $10,000 to help with funding new equipment and tools necessary for the fire company to operate in the future.

This year, the RRVFC Auxiliary had a long list of accomplishments. Some of which included, preparing and serving 4 Butchering Dinners and 2 Pancake Breakfasts, preparing 181 creme pies for Easter, preparing and processing 800 pounds of chicken, 34 country hams, 180 fruit pies and 256 creme pies for the carnival. ‘Sixx girls’ made 36 peanut butter pies and the Auxiliary matched their donation with another 36 to sell at the carnival.

The president stated, “We’re always looking for new members.” He recognized families have busy schedules, which makes it harder and harder to find new members. However, RRVFC continues to grow year by year by 3-4 new members. Most volunteer their time on the social end, however they would like to gain more support on the operational side.

A special recognition was given to a non-member, Mark Brum. After RRVFC purchased the land for the new parking lot, Mark was contracted to complete the parking lot. Due to constant rain last summer, his days were limited to complete the job. The goal was to have the parking lot complete by the parade night during the carnival. Dale stated, “Wednesday morning, they were in here doing the final stone and grading. By golly, by evening, it was ready to park on!”. He was assisted by members Ronnie Eyler and Alan Hurley.

Over the course of 2018, RRVFC kept busy running 219 emergency calls—117 of which were mutual aid, 3 service calls, 4 drills, and 13 public service details. Volunteers contributed over 1,000 hours. Out of 219 calls, Special Unit 13 was called 116 times, the second most common call was house fires, with 21 calls, and the third most frequent were vehicle accidents with a total of 13 calls. The busiest day of the week for RRVFC was Wednesday with 43 calls. The busiest month was January with 28 calls.

Linda Northrup and Bonny Hurley, who serve on the RRVFC awards committee came forward to reward the hard-working volunteers of the fire company. The first award that was given recognized an “Outstanding Junior” of the fire company. This year, Hunter Hurley volunteered 98 hours and was well recognized for his time.

The Charles Mumma Firefigher of the year award, one of RRVFC’s most prestigious awards was given to Alan Brauer, Sr. for over fifty years of service and dedication to the fire company. Alan joined the company in 1963. Since then, he has held multiple positions in the company, including secretary, assistant secretary and vice president. He was a part of Frederick County’s HAZMAT Team, and stays up to date with a refresher course every year. His nick name is “Mr. HAZMAT.” Alan has operated the dime pitch stand at the carnival since 1975. He currently serves as the captain of the Fire Police.

This year’s Robert Albaugh Outstanding Volunteer Award was presented to Helen Burrier. Helen has been a member since 1967. She served on the board of directors for several terms. Known as the “Gravy Lady,” she has been on the go for many gallons of gravy, and has contributed her time as the maker of the meringue for pies throughout the years.

Steve Wolfe received recognition for this year’s “Honor Member.” Like Helen, Steve has also served many terms on the board of directors. During the carnival, Steve enjoys helping out in the ham sandwich stand. Steve has spent much of his volunteer time helping set up for suppers and oversees the dining room for the Auxiliary’s banquets.

Denny and Paulette Mathias of RRVFC took the podium to award members with Length of Service pins. Five-year recipients were: Ed Knott, Bob Wiles, Kay Enzer and Steve Orndorff. Ten-year recipients: Rodman Myers, Bill Wachter, Jeff Reaver, Bruce Rice, Joey Youngerman, Megan Baugher, and Patt Riggs. Fifteen-year recipients included Craig Hovermale, and the Beal Family Amanda, Bonnie and Herman. Twenty-year recipients included Cindy Hart and Christine Hurley. Twenty-five year recipient was Alan Brauer, Jr. Thirty-year recipients: Ronnie Hahn and Larry Eyler. Thirty-five year recipients: Donna Kline and John Clark. Forty-year recipient: Daniel Whetzel. Forty-five year recipients: Steve Wolfe and Ed Northrup.

For the first time ever, RRFVC celebrated a member who has been a part of the company for fifty-five years. “We found out they didn’t even make pins for someone that old!” Paulette Mathias joked. Instead of receiving a pin, Alan Brauer, Sr. received a special certificate to show the company’s appreciation.

The Chief’s Award was presented by Alan Hurley. “This year has been a little busy for us, I’d like to thank all of you for your time, for being a part of our communities and thank the families,” said Alan. He recognized his fellow line officers, Captain Jim Rice and assistant chiefs, Kevin Albaugh and Luke Humerick.

Top Fire Police for the year included Alan Brauer, Sr. and Steve Orndorff. Top EMS Responders included Christina Hurley, Bonny Hurley, and Matt Moser.

Top Ten Responders were Alan Hurley, Matt Moser, Christina Hurley, Kevin Albaugh, Bonny Hurley, Luke Humerick, Wesley Burrier, Jamison Mathias, Dennis Mathias, a tie at tenth between Alan Brauer, Sr. and Buddy Stover.

Luke Humerick stood to recognize his group of Junior Members. He said, “We’ve had a great group of kids this year. They’re hard workin’ and fun to be around. They were always willing to help, no matter what the task was.” The juniors wrangled up more than 240 hours of volunteer time at the fire company and volunteering with events.

“I think he knows everyone in the Rocky Ridge area. If he doesn’t know you, you’re new.” Dale Kline commented while introducing the recipient of the President’s Award. Bun Wivell was awarded for his forty years of hard work as Treasurer for RRVFC.

Like Bun Wivell, every member has a role in the company. Whether it be managing the finances, making fluffy meringue, or managing a supper, all the members join together to support each other in their community and keep a good thing going for now seventy years—and many more to come!

2019 Officers

Linda Northrup presents Helen Burrier the Robert Albaugh Outstanding Volunteer Award.

Pictured are Bun Wivell, Alan Hurley, and Dale Kline.

Deb Abraham Spalding

The members of the Lewistown District Volunteer Fire Department held their annual banquet at their station in Lewistown on Saturday, February 2, 2019. The welcome was given by the outgoing president, Scott Martin. Chief Wayne Wachter reviewed company stats, indicating the total number of calls in 2018 was 755 consisting of 586 EMS calls and 169 fire calls. The busiest month was June with 71 calls.

Members of Boy Scout Troop 270 executed the Presentation of Colors and the National Anthem was sung by Catoctin High School students, Danielle Baker and Lily Gadra.

A memorial was held for three company members who passed away in 2018. They were Charles Michael, Flossie Layton, and Ruth Powell.

Scott Martin introduced 2019 Administrative Officers: Scott Stonesifer, President; Vicky Martin, Vice President; Karen Stull, Secretary; Mary Frances Bostian, Assistant Secretary; Vincent Schrader, Treasurer, Donald Martin, Assistant Treasurer; and Paul Stull, Steve Stull, Donald Stull, Sr., Mike Stull, Thomas Minnick, and Mike Fogle, Board of Directors; and Line Officers: Wayne Wachter, Jr., Chief; Vicky Martin, Deputy Chief; and Mike Stull, Assistant Chief.

The installation of officers was conducted by Dale Kline with the Frederick County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association.

Top Responders for 2018 were 10. Thomas Minnick (47 calls), 9. Brianna Wachter (67), 8. Frani Wachter (79 calls), 7. Mike Stull (85 calls), 6. Steve Stull (92 calls), 5. Stephanie Wachter and Donald Martin (129 calls), 4. Gerald Stull (149 calls), 3. Wayne Wachter (174 calls), 2. Beth Wachter (185 calls), 1. Vicky Martin (195 calls).

Lewistown Fire Police: Diana Bryant, Rodney Myers, Steve Stull, and Thomas Wachter were recognized.

A certificate was presented to Scott Martin for his service as President, Assistant Chief and Training Officer for 2018.

As chairman of the fundraising committee, Karen Stull presented her top ten fundraising, those earning the most LOSAP hours for fundraising: #10 Amber 141.5 hours, #9 Tyrell 146 hours, Amber and Tyrell got married in the firehouse in 2018, #8 Frani Wachter 176.5 hours, #7 Brianna Wachter 203 hours, #6 Vicky Martin 233 hours, #5 Stephanie Wachter 240 hours, #4 Wayne Wachter 288 hours, #3 Gerald Stull 304 hours, #2 Beth Wachter 309 hours, and #1 Steve Stull 355 hours.

Scott Martin shared, “We have a lot of pride in what you’re doing. This job is a true calling. We love doing what others can’t or won’t. The calling is impossible to explain to someone who is not in the Brotherhood. People most likely won’t thank us, and most of the time ignore us. We are the ones who wait for something bad to happen so we can go and fix it. The job is always changing. Training is the key. We don’t fight fires like we did years ago. It is not that fire changes, it’s the box it comes in. Buildings are built quickly and with less bulk, and that means they will fail quickly and faster.”

He presented Dedicated Service awards to several individuals for providing dedicated service to the department and the community with pride, honor, and distinction, and he stressed, “Not just this year but every year!” These awards were presented to Mary Frances Bostian, Beth Wachter, Donald Martin, Wayne Wachter, Wayne Stull, Delbert Stull, Mike Stull, Brianna Wachter and Stephanie Wachter.

Presidents Awards in recognition for hours of exemplary dedicated service were presented to Steve Stull and Karen Stull. Steve Stull is chair of the Fire Prevention committee, chair of Membership committee, the bingo caller, he runs calls, fire police, and helps with fundraising; Karen Stull is chair of the Fundraising Committee, is in the background putting in a lot of hours and makes sure food is at the ready for firefighters, even in the middle of the night.

The most emotionally touching part of the evening was when Scott Martin recognized Mike Stull for being inducted into the Frederick County Fire & Rescue Hall of Fame in 2018. Scott also acknowledged Mike’s moving into the position of Assistant Chief of Lewistown Fire Department and following in his father’s (Raymond Stull, Jr.) footsteps in these accomplishments. Scott gave Mike’s father’s Chief helmet shield for his own helmet.

Scott added, “In order to succeed in the fire service and in your own personal life in life, you have to take risks, you have to fail. You won’t be successful if you don’t do these two things. You have to have faith and take risks. What we couldn’t get to work here is working there. I spent 29 years in Frederick County Volunteer Fire Department. Though they are the best 29 years I can remember, it was time for me to move on.”

Scott gave some parting thoughts: continue to learn this job, it is always changing and if you let your guard down you will get hurt. Share your knowledge with others. Treat others how you would want them to treat one of your family members; get out the door quick or your fire will be my fire; always show a calm exterior no matter what you’re feeling on the inside, your demeanor can drive an incident in a positive or negative direction; don’t be afraid to ask questions or to ask for help, show up ready to do your job; take care of your crew; admit when you’re wrong or make a mistake and learn from it; different is not wrong it’s just different; and above all, love and enjoy your family for they are, your support system and they serve just as much as you do; life is better lived when you center it on what’s happening inside of you rather than what is happening around you; don’t think too much for you create a problem that wasn’t even there in the first place.

Members of the Guardian Hose Company served as the standby crew. Catering was by GT’s Catering.

Mike Stull, serving as assistant chief and on board of directors; Vicky Martin, serving as vice president and deputy chief; Wayne Wachter, serving as chief; Donald Martin, serving as assistant treasurer; Steven Stull, serving on board of directors; Mary Frances Bostian, serving as assistant secretary; Karen Stull, serving as secretary; Donald Stull, serving on board of directors; Mike Fogle, serving on board of directors; Vincent Schrader, serving as treasurer.

(above) Top Responders: Brianna Wachter (67 calls), Frani Wachter (79 calls), Mike Stull (85 calls), Steve Stull (92 calls), Stephanie Wachter (129 calls), Donald Martin (129 calls), Wayne Stull (149 calls), Wayne “Skeeter” Wachter (174 calls), Beth Wachter (185 calls), Vicky Martin (195 calls). Not pictured: Thomas Minnick (47 calls).

(above) President, Scott Martin, presents Mike Stull with his father’s helmet shield.

Photos by Deb Abraham Spalding

Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) is accepting nominations for the 2019 Charles E. Tressler Distinguished Teacher Award. Named for a former Hood College faculty member who encouraged young people to enter the teaching profession, this award recognizes an FCPS teacher who has had a significant positive impact on young people.

Hood College presents the Tressler award annually to honor distinguished teaching in the Frederick County public schools system. A gift from the late Samuel Eig of Gaithersburg established the award. Hood College will recognize the winner during its master’s degree reception on Wednesday, May 15, 2019.

FCPS has posted eligibility and nomination criteria, nomination process and selection guidelines at www.fcps.org/awards. The school system welcomes nominations from current or former students, teachers and support staff, parents, community members, administrators, and supervisors.

Nomination packets are due to the FCPS Communication Services Office, 191 S. East Street, Frederick, MD 21701, by 3:00 p.m., Friday, March 22, 2019.

Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) is accepting nominations for the school system’s 2019 Support Employee of the Year Awards. The awards recognize outstanding members of FCPS support staff.

Nomination eligibility, criteria, and process information are online at www.fcps.org/awards. Nomination packets are due Thursday, March 28, 2019, by 3:00 p.m. to the FCPS Communication Services Office, 191 S. East Street, Frederick, MD 21701.

FCPS will recognize one finalist from each of eight broad job classifications at the June 12 Board of Education meeting.

The job classifications are bus drivers; business support (which includes some Food and Nutrition Services, Transportation Office/Garage, and Technology Services positions); non-school-based custodian/maintenance/warehouse staff; school-based custodian/maintenance staff; Food and Nutrition Services staff; instructional and mainstream assistants/community liaisons/user support specialists; non-school-based secretaries; and school-based secretaries.

During the recognition, Superintendent Dr. Theresa Alban will name two of the eight finalists—one school-based and one non-school-based—the 2019 Support Employees of the Year.

It is time to recognize that special teacher who has made an impact on your child’s life and on your school community. Do you know a teacher who goes beyond what is expected? You can let this teacher know how important he/she has been to you by nominating him/her for the Thurmont Lions Club Teacher of the Year Award. Anyone can nominate a teacher: parents, students, fellow teachers, and administrators.

This award is open to pre-k through grade 12, full-time teachers, in the Catoctin feeder school system: Catoctin High, Thurmont Middle, Thurmont Elementary, Thurmont Primary, Lewistown Elementary, Sabillasville Elementary, and Mother Seton. 

All nominations will be recognized at a reception to be held on April 2, 2019, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Thurmont Regional Library. The Teacher of the Year for each school will be announced at the reception. The overall Teacher of the Year will be announced at the Thurmont Lions Club’s Education Night held in May 2019.

Nomination forms are available at www.thurmontlionsclub.com and at the principal’s office at each school. Nomination forms are due no later than March 15, 2019.

If you have any questions, please contact Lion Susan Favorite at skfavorite@comcast.net  or 240-409-1747 or Lion Joyce Anthony at jananny@comcast.net or 240-288-8748.

The Jack and Shirley Little Scholarship Fund at Mother Seton School (MSS) will continue to help families seeking an affordable Catholic education for years to come, thanks to the efforts of the Little Family. Tony Little, Scott Little, Pam Bolin (Little), MaryLou Little, and Ed Little presented MSS Principal Sr. Brenda Monahan, D.C. with a check for $19,000, the proceeds from the annual Angels Above Alumni Golf Tournament. The event was held on October 5, 2018, at the Mountain View Golf Club in Fairfield, Pennsylvania.

The tournament began as a promise made to their dying father that the Little siblings would do something to repay the generosity shown their parents when they sent their six children to MSS in the 1970s and 1980s. Tony, a graduate of MSS in 1978, followed through with that commitment, and with his siblings— Tim, MaryLou, Pam, Scott, and Ed—launched the golf tournament as a means to raise money for the Jack and Shirley Little Scholarship Fund at Mother Seton School. To date, the tournament has raised over $150,000 for the fund and helped numerous families afford the cost of tuition to MSS. “We want to continue to help Mother Seton School grow and thrive, and not have money be an issue (for families who wish to enroll their children),” Mr. Little said.

“We are grateful to the Little Family for their generosity and continued commitment to Catholic education,” said Sister Brenda. “In keeping with the legacy of our Foundress and Patron Saint, Elizabeth Ann Seton, our mission at Mother Seton School is to provide solid academics and solid Christian values for all who desire it, regardless of financial means. Thanks to the support of the Little Family, we can meet the growing demand for financial assistance so that families can choose and remain in a Catholic School.”

Tony Little remains humble about the family’s contributions. “None of us do this for recognition, only to keep mom and dad’s dream alive. For that reason, we will continue our efforts to contribute to the scholarship fund.”

The next Angels Above Alumni Golf Tournament will be held on October 4, 2019.

Pictured from left are Sister Brenda Monahan, D.C., principal of MSS; MaryLou Little; Ed Little, Scott Little; Kim Bolin; Tony Little; Pam (Little) Bolin; and Mason Bolin.

Blair Garrett

As temperatures rise, the snow begins to melt, and February comes to a close, high school spring sports will be kicking into high gear.

A cast of new athletes are coming in to provide Catoctin High athletics spring sports teams with the energy, drive, and dedication to be successful on and off the field. Catoctin spring sports include: boys baseball, girls softball, boys and girls lacrosse, and tennis.

Baseball. The Cougars look to improve on last season’s 6-4 record. The team has multiple matchups versus Boonsboro and Brunswick on its plate, which may be the deciding factor for the success of Catoctin High’s season. With a crop of talented athletes across the field, Catoctin Baseball appears to have another strong season in the works. The season tees off  March 21, against familiar foe Gov. Thomas Johnson.

Softball. Catoctin Softball’s 11-4 2018 season was a smashing success, and the team hopes to replicate its winning ways for the 2019 campaign. The team was bounced by the Bohemia Manor Eagles in the Maryland Girls Softball State Championships, but the Cougars’ trail back to the playoffs runs through its rivalry games early in the season.

Boys Lacrosse. Catoctin Lacrosse struggled across the board last season, but with a fresh team, fresh year, and a fresh mindset, the boys head into the 2019 season with the goal to continue improving. Getting off to a strong start might make the difference for the Cougars. The team kicks off its season in an away game on March 26 against Gov. Thomas Johnson.

Girls Lacrosse. After a rough previous season, Catoctin Girls Lacrosse has its sights set on a new start, as the team kicks off its season versus North Hagerstown on March 21. A win in the first game of the season could turn the tides and build confidence for the team moving forward.

Tennis. Catoctin Tennis kicks off with back-to-back matches March 21 and March 22 in back-to-back exhibition matches against local rivals, Boonsboro and Linganore. The team will look to get back into the win column after its hot start last season.

Blair Garrett

A scorching hot second half led the Mount to its biggest win of the season, smashing conference rivals Robert Morris University, 76-62.

The Mount struggled to keep consistent pressure in the first half, with RMU taking an early stranglehold on the game. Robert Morris clung to a double-digit lead for the majority of the first half, battling the Mountaineers up and down the court for every possession.

Mount St. Mary’s pushed back, closing the gap to a three-possession game just before the buzzer sounded for the first half. After a halftime show filled with dancing, fun, and dogs doing double dutch jump rope, the crowd was fired up, and so was the Mount to go out and finish the game strong.

That’s exactly what they did, firing off an explosive start, putting up a 10-2 run to even up the scores. The Mount looked dominant on offense, threatening quality scoring chances on every drive, but they were even stronger on the defensive side of the ball.

As the Mountaineers turned up the pressure with its full-court press, Robert Morris shooting percentages plummeted, and turnovers became their Achilles heel. The tides were officially turned on a defensive clinic put on by freshman guard Damian Chong Qui, who stole the ball at the Robert Morris baseline and immediately fed the ball with a no-look pass to Omar Habwe, who was waiting just inside the paint to slam it home.

Hawbe’s dunk came at the perfect time, igniting the crowd and the offense when Mount St. Mary’s momentum was peaking. The defender watched helplessly as Habwe slammed the basked out of his reach, prompting the bench to storm the court after a Robert Morris timeout.

The Colonials never recovered throughout the rest of the game, getting outscored 45-24 in the second half and failing to put together consistent pressure. The Mount kept its foot on the gas, thwarting the Robert Morris offense at every turn.

Mount St. Mary’s guard Vado Morse led the charge all game, sinking critical shots to continue propelling the Mount to victory. Morse ended the game with a game-high 21 points, four rebounds, and four assists.

The defining difference in the game was Mount St. Mary’s ability to transition quickly into offense, leaving Robert Morris struggling to keep up. The Mount outscored RMU 11-0 in points on fast breaks, and the team’s bench put up a staggering 21 points, one of its best totals on the season.

Forward Dee Barnes had a few important contributions off the bench, but none at a better time than his four-point play with the score knotted at 43. Barnes drained a three, getting fouled on the play, and put the free throw home to grab a lead for the Mount that it would hold for the rest of the game.

The win was particularly sweet as RMU had defeated the Mount in a nail biter earlier in the season, giving the team a bit of redemption with the final games of the season approaching. As February comes to a close and March rolls in, the team will be looking toward playoff season and hopes to carry momentum from the team’s win over RMU into the postseason.      

The Mount’s Vado Morse drives the lane en route to a 21-point game.

The CYA Basketball 2nd Annual Shoot-A-Thon event was held on Sunday, February 10, 2019, at Catoctin High School. It was a great success. Committee members planned an action-packed, fun-filled day for all the players that participated. The Shoot-A-Thon featured concessions, music, a face painter, and a bunch of high-fives and hugs. There were plenty of smiles, great shots, entertaining games, and community bonding that conveyed the spirit of our Cougar family.  

CYA is pleased to announce the raising of $9,600 from the event. In addition, over 500 non-perishable canned foods were collected that were donated to the Thurmont and Emmitsburg Food Banks.

Prizes were awarded for highest percentage foul shots made in seven groups, as well as the highest fundraiser. Winners were recognized at the Lady Cougars last home game of the season on February 15. Congratulations to all the winners: Austin Van Echo, Raegan Smith, Ethan Tokar, Corine Jewell, Kourtney Bell, Parker Davis, Colton Gray, Cooper Wiles, Dalton Reed, Abbey Shaffer, Melanie Topper, Drew Nicholson, Derek Nicholson, Jacob Kiltsch, Kaydense Cox, Eli Yocum, Emily Wetzel, Kamryn Goodin, Ava Ganjon, Paige Sweeney, and Brayden Grable. Winners of the canned food raffle include Olivia Morroni, Eli Yocum, Logan Berg, and Chase Cregger.

Student volunteers with the canned goods collected during the CYA Basketball 2nd Annual Shoot-A-Thon.

Blair Garrett

Senior Night for the Catoctin High girls basketball team (pictured above) went off without a hitch, as seniors for the Cougars led the team to a 41-28 victory.

Head Coach Amy Entwistle led the team’s senior ceremony, offering kind and inspiring words for each graduating player on the roster. “I’m so proud to share the court with each and every one of you.”

Each senior lined up beside their families, receiving the commendation and acknowledgment they deserve for the time and effort they put in week after week for the team.

“If my kids grow up to be half as good as you guys, I will have done my job,” Coach Entwistle said.  

After the ceremony, the team reconvened in the locker room to resume its usual pregame routine. This one, however, had a bit of a different feel, as each senior stormed the court for the team’s final home game of the season.

Senior players included Olivia Crum, Drucilla Long, Melanie Topper, Kelly Glass, and Raegan Smith, who all took part in the starting lineup in the team’s senior night showdown against Clear Spring.

The game got off to a rocky start for the Cougars, faltering a bit in the first quarter; but, thanks to the team’s veteran core and leadership, the team settled down and began to shut Clear Spring’s offense down.

Pressure was the key for closing down the shooting lanes against Clear Spring, with Catoctin’s star players taking over and forcing turnovers to take the lead and hold it throughout the rest of the game.

Clear Spring was held without scoring through a lengthy stretch of the second quarter, struggling to get clean shots off against the Cougars. Catoctin’s Melanie Topper and Raegan Smith played a big part in forcing Clear Spring to play their game, allowing the team’s offense to start taking over.

Freshman Emma Wivell stepped up big for Catoctin, driving the lane and jumpstarting the Cougars off to a sizeable lead just before the second half.

As the buzzer for the third quarter sounded, the Cougars again came out flying, outscoring their opponents 15-2 in a remarkable run. Catoctin held Clear Spring to just six points over the course of the second and third quarter, effectively neutralizing the team’s offense for half the game. Catoctin closed out the rest of the game smoothly, logging a 13-point victory for the team’s second win over Clear Spring this season, and its ninth win of the year.

Catoctin finished the year against one of its toughest opponents, Oakdale, dropping the away match 50-30 to cap off the season. The Cougars finished 9-13, but bounced back after a tough start to the season to go on a tremendous run through the month of January. 

The season has officially wrapped up for Catoctin. But the future is bright for the Cougars, and with the dedication and commitment the 2018-19 senior class showed, next year’s group has all the tools to have yet another strong season.

Catoctin’s Melanie Topper looks for an open target.

Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Lewistown

by Theresa Dardanell

“1833…Rebuilt 1883.”  That’s what you see on the cornerstone of the historic building that is now Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Lewistown.  Inside the church, you will find a small, but growing, congregation that includes young families with children, as well as members of the original parish that began as a small mission in 2005.

Although the chapel was originally a Methodist church, it became the home of the Lamb of God Charismatic Episcopal Church in 2005, under the leadership of Father James Hamrick. In 2009, they were received into the Orthodox Church and blessed as Saint John the Baptist Mission. 

On the welcome page of the Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church website, you will find the message: “We endeavor to bring the ancient Faith of Christ and the Apostles to the people of Frederick County and beyond.” Their Sunday service begins at 9:30 a.m. with “Matins,” which includes psalms, hymns, and readings. The Mass, according to the Rite of Saint Gregory, begins at 10:00 a.m. There are hymns, readings, prayers, a sermon, and communion. Visitors and friends are always welcome to attend Matins and Mass and, in the spirit of Christian fellowship, are invited to receive the priest’s blessing and blessed bread during communion. Fellowship continues after Mass with coffee hour. Once a month, everyone meets for a potluck dinner after Mass. The children are invited to move to the pews at the front of the church for the sermon. Father Hamrick speaks to the children, as well as to the adults, during his homily. The children’s education continues during children’s church on Saturdays. 

Local and worldwide ministries are beneficiaries of the church.  Monetary and food donations are given to the Thurmont Food Bank. The Antiochian Women of St. John the Baptist meet every other week for bible or book study and choose various service projects. They are in the planning stages of a program that will supply backpacks filled with supplies to various parishes. One of the previous service projects was a summer lunch program in Lewistown. Father Hamrick and one of the parishioners are members of the Order of St. Ignatius, a charitable order that provides funds for the support of seminarians, a camping ministry, prison fellowship, and Orthodox charities. Father Hamrick, a life member of the Guardian Hose Company and Thurmont Community Ambulance Company, serves as a Chaplain for the Guardian Hose Company.

Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church is located in Lewistown at 11199 Angleberger Road. Their very informative website, stjohnbaptistorthodox.org, includes information about the Orthodox faith, an archive of sermons, the “Path to Sainthood” lecture series, as well as a calendar and contact information.  Pre-recorded sermons are aired on Sunday mornings at 7:30 a.m. on WTHU.

Colleen Mcafee, parishioner and public relations coordinator for the Antiochian Women of the Mid Atlantic Diocese, said, “We know people who have been on lifelong journeys.  They are searching for something more. This fullness of the faith that’s really found in Orthodoxy. We never say where the grace of God is not but we know that the grace of God is here.  For anyone searching for the fullness of the faith, explore your local Orthodox Church.”

Pictured are Father James Hamrick (center, holding the baby), along with Deacon Stephen Kerr (next to Father James) and members of the parish.

by James Rada, Jr.

Four Club Meetings Today

At Emmitsburg two clubs have merged, the Catholic School Club and the Protestant School Club. The two organizations will alternate in meetings, one being held in the Catholic school one week and the next in the Protestant school.

About 40 members have already enrolled for club work for the coming season.

                                          – The Frederick Post, March 24, 1919

Making Road Survey

A corps of engineers began the work of making a survey of the public road leading from Thurmont, through Graceham, Rocky Ridge, Union Bridge and New Windsor to Westminster on Monday of this week.

It will be recalled that at the last session of the Legislature a bill was passed authorizing the survey of this road its entire distance between Hagerstown and Westminster. Thurmont is about half way between the two cities, the distance to Hagerstown by railroad being 28 miles and that to Westminster by rail 25 miles.

The engineers are now working from Thurmont to Westminster. Probably another corps will survey the road from Thurmont to Foxville, Smithburg (sic) on to Hagerstown.

The benefits from this road, if built, will be many. To the east of us it would take farmers out of the mud and place them on solid ground and to the west it would give the mountain people a good smooth road over which to bring their produce to railroad points.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, March 27, 1919

Red Cross Asks Emmitsburg For $1,111.70 Quota

Emmitsburg’s quota in the Red Cross War Relief campaign started Wednesday is $1,110.70, it was announced today by George L. Wilhide and A. L. Leary, co-chairmen for the borough.

Mr. Wilhide, cashier of the Emmitsburg State bank, and Mr. Leary, principal of the Emmitsburg schools, said today that the new quota is not much higher than the amount turned in by Emmitsburg during last year’s campaign when they oversubscriber (sic) their quota by $153.20. The total given by residents of Emmitsburg last year to help the Red Cross in its services to the men and women of the armed forces and their families was $1,013.20. Mr. Wilhide, who was manager of last year’s campaign, said today.

                                          – Gettysburg Times, March 2, 1944

Sabillasville Soldier Congratulates Friend

Tech. Sgt. Joseph H. Dingle, of Sabillasville, Md. received congratulations from an old home-town friend, First Sgt. Harry L. Bittner, following the former’s completion of his 25th mission over Nazi Europe as engineer and top turret gunner on a Flying Squadron.

Bittner, who is First Sergeant of a station complement squadron, and Dingle happened to meet recently in a town near here and discovered that both were stationed at this heavy bombardment base. Both are natives of Sabillasville where Sergeant Bittner’s father, S. P. Bittner, and Dingle’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin R. Dingle, are good friends.

                                          – Frederick News, March 27, 1944

Fight Mountain Fire Near College

Emmitsburg firemen walked over a half a mile through wooded area early Thursday evening to put out a fire that destroyed over an acre of woods on a mountain about a mile from the Mt. St. Mary’s College campus.

Fire Chief Guy McGlaughlin said the blaze was apparently caused by carelessness. Armed with portable fire fighting equipment several firemen made their way on foot up the steep mountain to the fire scene.

Later, firemen were able get additional men to the fire by means of a truck after they opened a closed road leading to an old qarry.

The fire, Chief McGlaughlin said, was in the same wooded area where they had fought a blaze a few days ago.

                                          – Gettysburg Times, March 21, 1969

New 1969 Ambulance Arrives

The American Legion Ambulance Service, Inc. proudly announces the arrival of its brand new 1969 Cadillac ambulance.

The red and white, four-patient, air-conditioned “vehicle of mercy” replaces the 1963 Cadillac ambulance which has faithfully served the community for the past five years. During the past year, over 150 cases were handled by the drivers and assistants who are all on a voluntary and non-paid basis.

The new ambulance will be housed as its predecessors were, in the American Legion building. The drivers and assistants are all members of the Legion. Membership in this organization is divided in three categories, Regular, Associate, and Social membership.

                                          – Catoctin Enterprise, March 7, 1969

Emmitsburg Fire Company Auxiliary Pledges $100,000 to Capital Program

The Emmitsburg, Md., Vigilant Hose Company kicked off a major capital campaign recently and received its first significant pledge from the VHC Auxiliary, a pledge of $100,000.

The Auxiliary has made its first payment on the pledge when it presented a check for $30,000 to VHC officers at the Company’s annual dinner and awards program recently.

The capital campaign is being conducted to raise $650,000 to help the fire company purchase a 100 foot ladder truck and to build an addition to the fire station on West Main Street in Emmitsburg.

The total cost of the project, according to VHC campaign co-chairmen Gabe Baker and Steve Hollinger, is estimated to be about $990,000.

“This represents the largest investment the Vigilant Host Company has ever made in its 110 years of service to our community,” the noted “And, it’s certainly the largest capital campaign ever conducted in our community.”

                                          – Gettysburg Times, March 2, 1994

Emmitsburg readies Easter Sunrise Service

Christians of all denominations will gather on the mountainside above Mount Saint Mary’s College again this year for the annual Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 3.

The service, sponsored by the Emmitsburg Council of Churches, has drawn more than 1,000 worshippers in good weather, when visitors can stroll among early spring flowers and visit the Italian mosaics of the Rosary and the Stations of the Cross.

The service will begin at 6:30 am and Msgr. Hugh. Phillips, chaplain of the Grotto, will extend greetings, and Rev. Dennis Schulze, pastor of Tom’s Creek Methodist Church, will deliver the sermon.

Music will be provided by the Emmtisburg Community Chorus, directed by Gary Schwartz.

                                          – Gettysburg Times, March 22, 1994

How to Be Kind in an Unkind World

by Anita DiGregory

Last week, after a particularly bad day, I settled in on the couch with my little ones for a much-needed movie night. After scrolling through our choices, we finally decided on an older movie (and one of my favorite family flicks), Evan Almighty, the lesser-known (but in my opinion, better) sequel to Bruce Almighty.(For a parent’s guide to the movie, see: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0413099/parentalguide?ref_=tt_stry_pg).

The movie tells the story of Evan Baxter (Steve Carell), television news anchor turned congressman. Newly elected, Baxter wants to “change the world” for the better, and he has grandiose plans on just how to do it. That is when God (Morgan Freeman) steps in to gently guide Baxter along the proper path of changing the world…a very different way than he had envisioned, with acts of kindness. 

Although released in 2007, the movie, complete with scheming political leaders set on their own personal agenda, biased, opinionated television media, and intolerance, seems quite apropos today. Although the irony was lost on my children, they enjoyed the light-hearted comedy. And, hopefully they picked up on the moral of the story, because, as it turns out, acts of random kindness really can change the world, and this world could use that right now.

In 2016, Sesame Workshop conducted a survey on kindness.  They issued the following statement:  “We chose to shine the spotlight on kindness because we have noticed an increasing number of news stories on anger, fear, bullying, and violence, as well as an overall sense of negativity permeating social discourse. We read research indicating that narcissism is on the rise, empathy is on the decline, and that middle and high school students think their parents prioritize grades and happiness over being kind to others. We also read articles about the importance of empathy and social-emotional skills.”

According to the survey, entitled “K Is for Kind: A National Survey on Kindness and Kids,” over 70 percent of parents and 86 percent of teachers often worry that the world is an unkind place for children. The survey found that both parents and teachers believe people do not go out of their way to help others. Well over 70 percent believe that kindness is essential for future success, stating that it is more important for children to learn and model kindness than for them to be academically successful. 

In fact, scientific studies continue to prove the importance and positive effects of kindness. For example, acts of kindness produce chemicals in the body that are shown to lower blood pressure, stress, depression, and anxiety, while increasing optimism, energy, happiness, and self-esteem. 

According to Christine Carter, author of Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents, “About half of participants in one study reported that they feel stronger and more energetic after helping others; many also reported feeling calmer and less depressed, with increased feelings of self-worth.” She adds that kindness has been found to lessen the incidence of aches and pains while protecting overall health.

Yet, in a time when news outlets spotlight stories of hatred and social media, and internet news sites are filled with angry, nasty comments, can we even make a difference; how can we “change the world” for the better? Each of us can commit to kindness. Think of what would happen if we chose to perform just three acts of kindness each day.  What if we challenged our spouses and loved ones to do the same?  What if we taught our children to commit to this as well? 

Research has found that kindness is teachable and contagious. Often acts of kindness lead to a “pay it forward” ripple effect. This means that one kind act can lead to dozens within a very short amount of time.

Lizzie Velasquez, author of Dare to Be Kind: How Extraordinary Compassion Can Transform Our World, states, “Kindness starts in the home.” Kindness begins with empathy, the ability to imagine how you would feel in the other person’s place. Parents can choose to teach and model empathy, compassion, gratitude, respect, and kindness to their children. Here is some advice from the experts on how to instill these virtues in your children.

Talk about it. Depending on their age, children may not be able to give a name to an emotion. When watching a show or reading a book with your child, talk about the characters’ feelings. Discuss their facial expressions, behaviors, and actions. Ask your child questions such as “How do you think she feels?” and “What makes you think she feels happy?”

Model Empathy and Kindness.  Children learn more from what they experience than what they are told to do. Strive to not only show them empathy and kindness, but also allow them to see you behaving this way with others.

Be a Coach. Provide your children with opportunities for kindness. Give them ideas for showing compassion and kindness in school and the community. Talk about their experiences and offer them tips and advice on developing those skills. Start a “Kindness Challenge” for your family.

We may not all be congressmen, but we can still do our part to change the world for the better, one random act of kindness at a time.

by Valerie Nusbaum

With St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, those of us who celebrate the holiday need to be thinking about which shade of green we’ll be wearing on March 17. I usually go with a nice Kelly green, but I might change it up this year.

I had always thought that puce was a shade of green, but I found out that I was wrong. After a little research, I learned that puce is the French word for “flea.” The color puce is actually a drab brownish-reddish shade that is supposed to resemble the stain a flea would make when crushed on linen, or the color of flea droppings. Doesn’t that sound lovely? I won’t be wearing puce on St. Patty’s Day or any other time. Chartreuse, olive, lime, forest, and seafoam greens are all acceptable choices, though. So are sap, moss, and avocado. Did you know that there’s a Hooker’s green?  A lovely ensemble with a Hooker’s blouse and some puce pants might be one way to go, or not. There’s also a shade called clover green, which is a good segue to my next thought.

What is the difference between a shamrock and a clover? I’m glad you asked because this gives me the opportunity to learn something. 

As far as I can tell, a shamrock is a species of clover. There is some confusion as to which species is actually the one that serves as a symbol of Ireland. Shamrocks and most clovers have three leaves on each stem. According to legend, Saint Patrick used the three leaves to illustrate the Christian Holy Trinity.  I think I’m correct in saying that the common clover weed found in most of our lawns is not a shamrock.  However, one can occasionally find a common clover, which has four or more leaves and is considered a symbol of good luck for the finder. However,  this is a totally different thing and it doesn’t pertain to St. Patrick’s Day.

Luck, on the other hand, is associated with the Irish. Why is that? Well, it seems that during the times of the gold and silver rushes of the late 1900s, some of the most famous and prolific miners had come to the United States from Ireland. The term “luck of the Irish” was coined by other miners, and it is said that the term was used in a derogatory way that implied that the only way the Irish miners could strike it rich was through luck because they weren’t smart enough to do it any other way. How rude!  I suppose that’s how the image of the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow came about.

Of course, the pot of gold is said to belong to a leprechaun, and in order to possess the gold, one must catch the leprechaun (a tiny old man dressed in a green or red suit). Leprechauns are known tricksters, but supposedly if one is caught, he will grant his captor three wishes if the captor agrees to let him go. Leprechauns are said to enjoy drinking alcohol in large quantities, so homeowners in Ireland tended to keep their cellars locked down. It’s also interesting to point out that some historians believe the term leprechaun originated from “leath brogan,” an Irish term meaning shoemaker, which could account for those snazzy buckles we see on the shoes of most leprechauns.

Speaking of shamrocks, which I did earlier, it’s been a tradition of mine for many years to have lunch at The Shamrock restaurant on St. Patrick’s Day. I’m usually a person who’s bothered by crowds and noise, but not on March 17. I also don’t drink beer—green or otherwise—so it might seem strange that I enjoy this holiday so much, but I do. I love corned beef and cabbage, and a good Reuben sandwich (minus the Russian or Thousand Island dressing) is something I’d never turn down. People dress up in their green and wear goofy hats and accessories at the restaurant; the Celtic music is playing and the atmosphere is one of fun and good humor. It started out with me taking my mom out to lunch, then our cousin Pat joined us, and then we decided to include Randy and Pat’s husband Keith. It’s become a tradition to have lunch at The Shamrock and come back to our house for dessert. I even enjoy coming up with green treats and Irish-themed sweets.

I think I’ve told you before that my mom makes shamrock-shaped green pancakes for the holiday.  She started that tradition when my brother and I were children and she continues it to this day, unless I make the pancakes before she gets a chance to do it.

Randy’s family, being of German descent, didn’t usually join in the festivities, but I’ve managed to convince Randy that he’s a little bit Irish, if only for one day. Plus, he never turns down a good meal, a celebration, or a chance to wear a silly hat.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to those of you who will be celebrating with us, and happy spring to all!