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Emmitsburg 50+ Center

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BY Caitlyn Kirby

Spooky season is upon us. It’s time for tricks and treats; just don’t let the ghouls and goblins keep you from fun and festive opportunities available at Emmitsburg 50+ Center! Great weather and great times await; don’t let a good time spook you this season! 

This Halloween, we have some festive activities for your treats—no tricks! If you’re feeling creative, come be batty with stained glass. We will be making a Halloween-stained glass bat decor for windows or walls. Or come make your own pumpkin key chains. For the season, the talented Dorathea will be returning to host an instructional autumn-themed painting class. Other Halloween fun will include a Halloween movie with ice cream, as well as a virtual presentation on mediums and magicians.

We have many of our regular activities returning. Exercises we will have include the walking group, the “Easy Does It!” video exercise with the addition of a moderate-level intensity video. “Unrulies” Pickleball will also be returning, as well as the open gym opportunity if you want to enjoy exercise your way. Other returning activities include regular game times, stitching posts, and paint by number. And let us not forget Chair Yoga on Mondays!

The center will be adding a crochet class on Monday, October 28, that will give you the tools for a great foundation in crocheting for the future. There will also be some new workshop opportunities. This will include “Beginning Genealogy” and a “Mental Health Workshop.” We will also be celebrating October birthdays on the 14th. Come have a very happy birthday and enjoy a treat! 

Last but not least, come enjoy a catered lunch and friendly atmosphere every Monday at noon. Donations are appreciated, up to $6.00. Please pre-register for lunch at least three days in advance. This is an exciting opportunity to visit the center and bring a friend or to meet new people!

Please call the center at 301-600-6350 or email emmitsburgseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov if you have any questions.

About the Cover

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Cover Photo: Jason and Addelynn Green with their Ayrshire dairy heifers. Jason received 3rd place in the March Calf Class, and Addelyn won Overall Reserved Champion Dairy Heifer.

2024 Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

Winners of the 68th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, held September 6-8, 2024, at Catoctin High School in Thurmont, are listed below. Many thanks to all the judges, coordinators, performers, and volunteers who led, organized, or contributed to this extraordinary annual community event.

50th Anniversary Recognition of Annual Beef, Sheep, Swine & Market Goat Show & Sale
The 50th Anniversary Recognition of the annual Beef, Sheep, Swine and Market Goat Show & Sale was held on Saturday, September 7, prior to the livestock sale.

Bob Valentine (pictured second from left) was honored for his dedication as the show and sale’s chair since its inception and for the following 49 years.

Pictured on the left is Shelby Green, Livestock Committee member, who presented Bob with a special plaque from the Community Show Committee that honored Bob as Emeritus Vice President of the Community Show. 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz (pictured third from left) presented Bob with an antique handsaw, hand-painted with an agricultural scene by Robin Sharrer. Also recognized were the following exhibitors from the 1974’s first livestockshow and sale: Chip Long (pictured center), representative for his sister, Gwen Long Kuster, Patty Keilholtz Kerns (pictured second from right) and Rodman Myers (pictured far right). Absent was Mike Baust, and additional 1974 exhibitors—now deceased—were Joe Wivell, Dallas McNair, and Harry Swomley. The annual show and sale is sponsored by the Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters, which has been a highlight of the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show for 50 years!

Calvin Sayler, a Catoctin area farmer and Hereford cattle breeder, lived on a farm in Rocky Ridge and was a member of the Catoctin FFA Alumni. He felt very strongly that the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show should have a beef cattle sale.

On September 13, 1974, the first beef cattle sale was held when seven 4-H, Grange, and Catoctin FFA Alumni members exhibited nine cattle. Four of the seven are still living for the 50th Anniversary: Gwen Long Kuster, Patty Keilholtz Kerns, Mike Baust, and Rodman Myers. Three additional exhibitors at the first Livestock Show & Sale were Joe Wivell, Dallas McNair, and Harry Swomley, who are now deceased. Along with Thurmont High School’s Vocational Agriculture teacher, Bill Baker, Rodman Myers helped to start the

Community Show 68 years ago. Bob Valentine, who was in the ninth grade at the time, was the master of ceremonies for the first Community Show program under Bill Baker’s leadership. Bill Baker was the livestock sale’s auctioneer for its first year, while Bob Valentine was the show’s first-year chair and served as chair for the next 49 years. Under Bob’s leadership, both the show and sale expanded over the years with the addition of sheep, swine, and goats. Both Rodman Myers and Bob Valentine have attended all the annual Community Shows over its 68-year history!

This annual event has been a highlight of the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, the largest community show in the State of Maryland. Thanks to Calvin Sayler for his vision to make this annual Beef, Sheep, Swine and Market Goat Show & Sale a reality!

The 2024 Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show Pet Show was held on Saturday, September 7. There were 26 exhibitors who exhibited 58 pets. The judges were Mary Ann Fisher and Wil Valentine. Many thanks to Dave Harman, Dave Johnston, and Bobby Myers, who all helped with the event.

The Grand Champion winner received a $25 gift card, donated by Tractor Supply Company. The Reserve Grand Champion received a $15 gift card, donated by The Dirty Dawg. Each participant received treats for their animals and also free ice cream cone wooden coins, donated by Roy Rogers. Winners were as follows:

Cat with Prettiest Eyes: 1st—Paula Garman; 2nd—Matt Rice; 3rd—Heather Rice

Cat with the Longest Whiskers: 1st—Paula Garman (7 cm); 2nd—Matt Rice (5 cm)

Pet with the Most Spots: 1st—Matt Rice; 2nd—Sierra Bennett

Largest Pet (by height): 1st—Jennifer Wager; 2nd—Michelle Sanville

Dog with the Waggiest Tail: 1st—Morgan Kolb; 2nd—Sierra Bennett; 3rd—Jennifer Wager

Prettiest Dog – 25 lbs. & under: 1st—Emma Donnelly; 2nd—Caroline Chism; 3rd—Trace Rhinehart

Prettiest Dog – 26 lbs. & over: lst—Morgan Kolb; 2nd—Stacey Flanigan; 3rd—Michelle Sanville

Dog with the Prettiest Eyes: 1st—Stacey Flanigan; 2nd—Emma Donnelly; 3rd—Michelle Sanville

Cutest Pet (other than a cat or dog): 1st—Sierra Bennett

Cutest Cat: 1st—Matt Rice; 2nd—Lisa Rice; 3rd—Heather Rice

Smallest Pet: 1st—Heather Rice; 2nd—Trace Rhinehart

Best Costumed Pet: 1st—Charlotte Donnelly; 2nd—Morgan Kolb; 3rd—Megan Clark

Most Unusual Pet: 1st—Lisa Rice (Siamese cat); 2nd—Michelle Sanville (Samoyed dog); 3rd—Heather Rice (Siamese cat)

Best Trained Pet: 1st—Sierra Bennett; 2nd—Megan Clark; 3rd—Stacey Flanigan

Grand Champion: Sierra Bennett (Best-trained Pet)

Reserve Grand Champion: Emma Donnelly (Prettiest Dog – 25 lbs. & under)

Barnyard Olympics
The 2024 Barnyard Olympics were held at the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show on Sunday, September 8, 2024. Many thanks to Dave Harman, Bobby Myers and Dave Johnston for chairing the event. Each winner received a ribbon and will receive a premium check from the Community Show. Roy Rogers of Thurmont also donated a free ice cream cone coupon to all the winners. The winners were based on the fastest time for their age group:

Ages 5 & 6: 1st—Bexlie McIlrath; 2nd—Morgan Ridinger; 3rd—Nathaniel Brauning.

Ages 7 & 8: 1st—Piper McCrea; 2nd—Leighton McIlrath; 3rd—Ella Eaves.

Ages 9 & 10: 1st—Savanna Bianco; 2nd—Bryce Dennis, 3rd—Dylan Ridinger.

Ages 11-13: 1st—Zachary Bianco; 2nd—Kamdin Miller; 3rd—Naomi Rice.

Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show Champions & Reserve Champions
The following were the Champion and Reserve Champion winners at the 2024 Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, held September 6-8 at Catoctin High School in Thurmont. Each Champion and Reserve Champion winner will receive additional premium money, and Bollinger’s Restaurant will provide a gift certificate to each Department Champion. Carleo Pizza in Emmitsburg will provide a gift certificate to each Reserve Department Champion.

Fresh Fruits: Champion –Kylie Robertson (Sugar Giant Peaches); Reserve Champion – Katelyn Robertson (Cameo Apples); Fresh Vegetables: Champion

– Roxanne Lambert (Eggplant); Reserve Champion – Ashley Atkins (Sunflower); Home Products Display: Champion – Katelyn Robertson; Reserve Champion –

Angie Mathews; Canned Fruit: Champion – Pamela Long (Others – Green Tomato Mince Meat); Reserve Champion – Joannne Fuss Ricketts (Grape Juice); Canned

Vegetables: Champion – Donald Stanley (Spaghetti Sauce); Reserve Champion – Bridgette Kinna (Others – Bruschetta); Jellies & Preserves: Champion – Jane

Redding (Other – Peony Tree Jelly); Reserve Champion – Bridgette Kinna (Syrup – Maple Walnut Syrup); Pickles: Champion – Pam Long (Pepper Relish); Reserve

Champion – Ley Favorite (Dill Pickles); Meat: (Canned) – Champion – Melissa Kinna (Canned Tenderloin); Reserve Champion – Terri Morgan (Canned Beef);

Home Cured Meats: Champion – Catoctin FFA Alumni (Country Ham); Reserve Champion – Catoctin FFA (Country Ham).

Baked Products: Cake – Champion – Karen Willard (Chocolate Cake); Reserve Champion – Cheryl Lenhart (Coconut Cake); Honorable Mention Cake – Burall

Brothers Scholarship – Maxine Troxell (Chiffon Cake); Bread: Champion – Caitlin Jaquith (Bread, Other Variety – Cinnamon Babka); Reserve Champion – Kelly Glass

(Pumpkin Bread); Pie: Champion – Denise Valentine (Blackberry Pie); Reserve Champion – Melissa Kinna (Apple Pie); Sugar Free: Champion – Joyce Kline

(Sugar Free Cake – Yellow with Chocolate Icing); Reserve Champion – Phyllis Eiker (Sugar Free Cookies); Gluten-Free Baked Product: Champion – Karen

Willard (Gluten Free Cake); Reserve Champion – Beth Shriner (Gluten Free Cake); Misc. Baked Product Champion: Champion – Vicky Sharrer (Hard Candy);

Reserve Champion – Cheryl Lenhart (Chocolate Fudge); Grand Champion Cake (Youth Department – In Honor and Memory of Mearl McCleaf): Champion

– Masyn Sanders (Cake with Fruit – Lemon Blueberry); Reserve Champion Cake – Masyn Sanders (Other Variety – Pumpkin Cake); Youth Misc. Baked Product:

Champion – Lauren Kelley (Drop Cookies); Reserve Champion – Masyn Sanders (Fruit Pie – Apple); Junior Department Baked Product: Champion – Ryleigh

Ensor (Cake with Fruit – Applesauce Raisin); Reserve Champion – Dylan Ridinger (Pound Cake); Junior Department Misc. Baked Product: Champion – Bryce

Yocum (Muffins); Reserve Champion – Bryce Yocum (Fruit Pie – Caramel Apple). Fabric and Fiber Arts (Sewn Items): Champion – Sherry Topper (Sewn Item

– Original); Reserve Champion – Karen Willard (Sewn Item – Other); Fabric and Fiber Arts (Misc. Fiber Items): Champion – Charlotte Dutton (Fiber item –

Animals – Felted); Fabric and Fiber Arts (Crocheting): Champion – Charlotte Sullivan (Crochet, Stripe); Reserve Champion – Shirley Greene (Crochet, Other);

Fabric and Fiber Arts (Cross Stitch): Champion – Sharon Brooks (Cross Stitch – Picture); Reserve Champion – Kathy Hoffman (Cross Stitch, Other); Fabric

Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show Champions & Reserve Champions

and Fiber Arts (Crewel, Embroidery & Needlepoint): Sharon Brooks (Crewel); Reserve Champion – Shirley Greene (Embroidered Pillow); Fabric and Fibert Arts

(Knitting): Champion – Phyllis Ecker (Sweater); Reserve Champion – Tracy Lewis (Scarf); Fabric and Fiber Arts (Quilts & Quilted Items): Champion – Peggy Elgin

(Quilts – Blocks); Reserve Champion – Karen Willard (Quilts – Made by Hand and Machine); Fabric and Fiber Arts (Rugs): Champion – Tracy Lewis (Rugs, other).

Flowers & Plants: Champion – Roxanna Lambert (Side Table Arrangement); Reserve Champion – Melissa Beil (Potted Foliage); Fine Arts: Champion – Robert Keilholtz (Acrylics); Reserve Champion – Kathy Ellis (Watercolor); Arts & Crafts: Champion – Bill Stottlemyer (Decorations, Patriotic); Reserve Champion – Ley

Favorite (Fiber & Textiles); Color Photography: Champion – Grace Blanchard (Building/Architecture); Reserve Champion – Joyce Kline (People/Selfie); Black & White Photography: Champion – Kaitlyn Schildt (Still Life); Reserve Champion – Patrick McIlrath (Children – under age 18).

Corn: Champion – Brooke Ridinger (Indian Corn – 10 ears); Reserve Champion – Brian Harbaugh (Hybrid Corn); Small Grain & Seeds: Champion – Makayla

Comer (Soybeans, 1 jar); Reserve Champion – Preston Clark (Timothy, 1 jar); Eggs: Champion – Brooke Ridinger (Brown Eggs); Reserve Champion – Ashley Atkins (White Eggs); Nuts: Champion – Kevin Long (Black Walnuts); Reserve Champion – Edward Hahn (English Walnuts).

Rabbit: Champion – Olivia Dutton (Breeding Rabbit – Buck); Reserve Champion – Kara Wolf (Dwarf Rabbit – male or female); Poultry: Champion – Charlotte Dutton (Poultry Exhibit – 1 hen); Reserve Champion – Wade Wolf (Turkey – Tom); Dairy: Champion – Patrick Venables (Ayrshire Spring Yearling); Reserve Champion –Addie Green (Ayrshire – Spring Calf); Dairy Goats: Champion – Tristan VanEcho (Doe in Milk – 5 years); Reserve Champion –Tyrone VanEcho (Doe in Milk – 5 years); Hay: Champion – Caroline Clark (Alfalfa Hay); Reserve Champion – Caroline Clarke (Timothy Hay); Straw: Rodman Myers (Barley Straw); Reserve Champion – Caroline Clarke (Straw – Oat).

Junior Department: Bexlie McIrath (Metal Craft – Mouse); Reserve Champion – Paytin Moore (Craft, Recycled Material – Corn); Youth Department: Champion – Preston Clark (Sewn item, Misc. ages 11-13 – Vest); Reserve Champion – MaKayla Comer (Craft – Painted Rock – Rock Pond).

Beef: Champion – MaKayla Comer; Reserve Champion – Hayden Hahn; Beef Heifer: Champion – Peyton Davis; Reserve Champion – Garrett Troxell; Sheep: Champion – Chloe Keilholtz; Reserve Champion – Caleb Roberts; Ridenour Lamb – Peyton Davis; Swine: Champion – Peighton Rhinehart; Reserve Champion –

Destiney Briggs; Market Goat: Champion – Alyssa Costa; Reserve Champion – Chloe Glass. Pet Show: Sierra Bennett (Cutest Pet – Other than a cat or dog); Reserve Champion– Emma Donnelly (Prettiest Dog – 25 lbs. and under); Decorated Animal Champion – Preston Clark (Strawberry Ice Cream and Banana Split).

Grand Champion Steer (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz, Buyer Jason Trump, and Exhibitor Makayla Comer.

Grand Champion Goat (from left): Banner holder, Carly Ridenour; Buyers Zac Virtz and Karlie Bosley of Legacy Livestock Auction LLC; Exhibitor Alyssa Costa; and 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz.

Grand Champion Lamb (from left): Rosette ribbon holder, Joshua Wivell; banner holder, Chloe Mathias; Buyer representatives from Mike’s Farm Market, Terri and Mike Pue; 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; and Exhibitor Chloe Keilholtz.

Grand Champion Hog: Banner holder, Chloe Mathias (far left); Exhibitor Peighton Rhinehart (back center); (behind) Buyers Stacy and Jay Bureau with their son, Dominic; and 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz.

The winner of the 2024 Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show Decorated Animal Contest was (center) Champion, Preston Clark (strawberry ice cream and banana split); (on right) judge Ryan Haines of Taneytown; and (on left) 2024- 2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador

Pet Show (from left): Co-chair Dave Johnston; Chair Dave Harman; Reserve Grand Champion, Emma Donnelly (Prettiest Dog — 25 lbs. and under); Grand Champion, Sierra Bennett (Besttrained Pet); 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; and Judges, Mary Ann Harbaugh and Judge Wil Valentine.

Winners in the 43rd Annual Robert Kaas Memorial Horseshoe Pitching Contest for 2024: (front row) 1st—Gary Hoffmaster and Johnny Buhrman; (back row) 2nd—Donnie Kaas and Dale Kaas; 3rd—Dave Miller and Gary Willard.

Pictured (from left) are Thurmont Mayor John Kinnaird and Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show Co-Founder & President C. Rodman Myers.

Department Champions and Reserve Champions Table.

Reserve Champion Cake (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Cheryl Lenhart, holding her coconut cake; and South Mountain Collision Center buyer Kenny Keeney. Winning bid funds benefit the Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters.

Grand Champion Cake (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Karen Willard, holding her chocolate cake with chocolate icing with almonds; and Catoctin Mountain Seed Corn buyers Bobby Myers and (not pictured) Rodman Myers. Winning bid funds benefit the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show. Karen Willard also won the Grand Champion Gluten Free Baked Product, a German apple cake, purchased by Emmitsburg’s Vigilant Hose Company. The winning bid funds benefit the Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters Scholarship.

Honorable Mention Cake (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Maxine Troxell; and buyer Joany Jackman. Winning bid funds benefit the Burall Brothers Grange Scholarship Fund.

Grand Champion Sugar Free Baked Product (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Joyce Kline, holding her yellow cake with chocolate icing; and buyer Carroll Shry. Winning bid funds benefit the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show.

Grand Champion Bread (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Caitlin Jaquith, holding her cinnamon babka; and buyer representatives Ella and Adalyn Eaves for Brandon & Jayme Zimmerman.

Grand Champion Pie (from left): Buyer Ralph Hansberger; baker Denise Valentine, holding her blackberry pie; and buyer Jimmy Summers. Winning bid funds benefit the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

Junior Dept (10 & under) Champion Misc. Baked Product (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Bryce Yocum, holding his blueberry muffins purchased by his grandmother Nancy Yocum. Winning bid funds benefit the Sabillasville Environmental School.

Junior Dept (10 & under) Grand Champion Cake (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Ryleigh Ensor; and Emmitsburg’s Vigilant Hose Company’s buyer representative Tim Clarke, holding her applesauce raisin cake. Winning bid funds benefit the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Food Banks.

Youth Dept (11-18) Champion Misc. Baked Product (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Lauren Kelley, holding her S’mores cookies; purchased by Windsor Customs LLC (not pictured). Winning bid funds benefit the Sabillasville Environmental School.

Youth Dept (11-18) Grand Champion Cake (from left): 2024-2025 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Kaitlynn Bentz; baker Masyn Sanders, holding his lemon blueberry cake with lemon buttercream icing; and Mountain Gate Family Restaurant buyer representative Caleb McCleaf. Youth Grand Champion Cake is In Honor & Memory of Mearl McCleaf and benefits these three youth-related funds: Thurmont Grange Scholarship, Catoctin FFA’s National FFA Convention Trip and Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters Scholarship.

Town Hall Reports

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by James Rada, Jr.

Thurmont

Water and Sewer Rates Increasing

The Town of Thurmont recently approved new proposed water and sewer rates for Fiscal Year 2025, which may be increased by 15 percent at all usage levels. The rates were last raised in 2013, and costs since that time have risen dramatically.

Colorfest Services and Fees Approved

The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners approved bids for services that are needed for Colorfest to run smoothly.

• Mays Security in Frederick will provide security with 17 guards, 2 supervisors, and 2 relief guards for $27,528, which increased from $20,640 last year.

• Rill’s Bus Service in Westminster will provide bus service with 9 buses and 2 wheelchair-accessible buses on Saturday and 7 buses and 2 wheel chair accessible buses on Sunday for $26,000, which increased from $23,800 last year.

• Key Sanitation in Dickerson will provide toilets and trash removal with 114 portable toilets and 16 handicap-accessible toilets for $24,950, which is an increase from $24,383 last year.

The total of $78,478 represents a 14-percent increase over last year’s services. The mayor and commissioners also approved a 10 percent across-the-board increase for 2025, except for the yard sale permit that will stay at $15. The goal of the fees is to cover the town’s costs for security, sanitation, and transportation.

American Legion Parking Lot Proposal Pursued Parking in downtown Thurmont has become a problem with the municipal parking lot regularly filled to capacity. Thurmont Economic Development

Director Vickie Grinder and Commissioner Bill Blakeslee investigated possible solutions to the problem and came up with a promising solution. They reached an agreement in principle with the American Legion to turn the empty field beside the Legion hall into a parking lot. The town would develop and maintain the parking lot, which would create an additional 40 to 50 parking spaces. The Legion would still own the land and carry the liability insurance for the parking lot. The lot would then be available as a municipal lot and for Legion activities.

The potential cost for this project would be around $225,000. Right now, it would have to come out of the town budget, but Grinder is pursuing possible grants to help offset the costs. The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners believe the solution is worth pursuing, but they also want to explore other options that could be potentially less expensive.

Commission Appointments Made

The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners made the following appointments to town commissions:

• Jim Robbins to the Police Commission.

• Matt Westbrook to the Police Commission.

• Pat Rhodes to the Planning and Zoning Commission as the alternate member.

Emmitsburg



Candidates for Board of Commissioners

Four people are running for three seats on the Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners: Rosario Benvengi, Kevin Hagan, James Hoover, and Cliff Sweeney.

Because Commissioner Tim O’Donnell has decided to not continue serving as a commissioner, there will be at least one new face on the board after the election. O’Donnell has served on the Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners since 2009. He also served as the president of the board multiple times.

In order to keep each year’s election for two seats, two will be for three year terms and the third will be for a one-year term. The top two vote-getting candidates will receive three-year terms, while the third-place vote-getter will receive a one-year term so that it will expire at the same time as Board PresidentAmy Boehman-Pollitt’s term.

Commissioners Hoover and Sweeney will be seeking re-election. Former Mayor Hoover was most recently appointed to fill the remaining ten-month term of Commissioner Frank Davis when Davis was elected mayor. Sweeney has been serving on the board of commissioners for 29 years.

Registered voters can cast ballots at the old town office at 22 E . Main Street, between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on October 1.

Revamping the Farmers Market

Due to a lack of vendors, low attendance, and having to compete against larger towns, the Emmitsburg Farmers Market is being revamped. The market will be rebranded as Emmitsburg Fun, Farm, and Family Day and become a regular event. It will not only include farmers market vendors, but also craft vendors, yard sales, music, beer tent, food trucks, and kids’ activities. The goal is to not only bring in more business for local farmers, but to create a fun family event for residents. The event may be held monthly, May through October (excluding June because of Emmitsburg Community Day), on a Saturday in Community Park.

EV Charging Around the Clock

The Town of Emmitsburg charging stations at the Emmitsburg Community Center will now be available for use around the clock after the Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners amended the town code to remove a restriction on when the stations can be used. However, the six-hour limit for charging still remains in place.

New Town Signs

The Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners recently approved a bid for four new “Welcome to Emmitsburg” signs to be placed on East and West Main Streets and North and South Seton Avenues. KM Printing in Owings Mills won the bid to create 4-foot by 8-foot signs with “Welcome to Emmitsburg Est. 1785

National Register of Historic Places” on the front and “Thank you for visiting the Town of Emmitsburg, Maryland.” The new signs will also have breakaway bases to reduce damage to the sign if a vehicle strikes it. The cost will be $33,160 and funded by a Frederick County Tourism Cooperative Grant, a DHCD Main Street Affiliate Operating Grant, and town funds.

Rainbow Lake SWMA

In order to build the Rainbow Lake Parking Lot on Hampton Valley Road, the Town of Emmitsburg needed to establish the area as a stormwater management area and maintain any needed facilities. It will also be inspected regularly by the Frederick County government.

Zanella Drive Paving

The Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners voted to award White Pine Paving a $54,300 contract to pave Zanella Drive from the Provincial Parkway to the last de-sac. The project includes removing asphalt from the existing roadway; adding a 2-inch mill and overlay to the street; re-striping any lines or stop bars that were in place; raising/lowering the utilities if needed; and restoring any landscape, sidewalk, or other damage to the site upon project completion.

Brookfield Lots Returned to HOA

The Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners recently voted 4-1 that four lots set aside in Brookfield for open space do not serve a public purpose and rejected the dedication of the lots. They will return to the developer, who can then transfer them with a deed of easement to the HOA.

From the Mayor

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Thurmont

Mayor John Kinnaird

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Town of Thurmont will be hosting the Gateway to the Cure fundraiser in support of the Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund at Frederick Health. Patty Hurwitz and her husband, Jeff, established the Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Patty knows from personal experience how devastating a diagnosis of breast cancer can be, and she started the fund to help other cancer patients as they faced what she went through. To date, the residents, businesses, and friends of Thurmont have raised $167,000 over the past 10 years to support the Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund.

This year will be the 11th year for this amazing community-wide effort, and I ask that everyone participate in this year ’s effort. In years past, our friend,

Commissioner Bill Buehrer, would always encourage us to raise more than we did the previous year. Sadly, Bill succumbed to his battle with cancer last fall, and I, for one, miss his unwavering support of the Gateway to the Cure. I have often been asked why the Hurwitz Fund was selected, and the simple answer is that all the proceeds realized by our fundraiser is invested in Frederick County to support cancer research and to assist breast cancer patients. Cancer is an insidious disease that can affect any of us by causing damage to our organs, lungs, bones, blood, skin, and brain. Although each cancer may be treated differently, the research for one can benefit others. I am an example of this.

I am currently on a chemotherapy drug that was developed for the treatment of breast cancer. I have been prescribed the drug in an off-label test application for the treatment of my squamous cell skin cancer. Sadly, these drugs are extremely expensive; my treatment is listed at $2,900 for each two-week course. I take it for two weeks and then stop for a week, get bloodwork, and then take another course. I will be doing this for eight months. I am fortunate and have managed to get the chemo at a drastic discount; others do not have that option. Not only can the drug treatment be unaffordable, but the surgical procedures, personal stress, and stress to your family and friends can be overwhelming. The cancer is fearful enough without having to worry about the financial and emotional impact on your life.

Surgery is another giant issue for some cancer patients. In the last 10 years, I have had over three dozen surgeries to my arms, neck, face, ears, and scalp. The previous four surgeries on my scalp required removing all the skin and tissue down to my skull. Each of those times, Karen has had to change my bandages daily and apply ointment to my skull, so the bone didn’t dry out. It takes many months for the skin and tissue to grow back, but it does. My cancer can be removed with surgery but it continues to mature in other areas. Radiation therapy is another method of treatment. A couple of years ago, I underwent 30 daily radiation treatments on my scalp to try to halt the growth of cancer in the nerves on my scalp. The radiation can cause side effects; mine included permanent hair loss, temporary lethargy and confusion, and nerve damage that has resulted in continued phantom nerve pain. I can live with the disfigurement and pain caused by surgery and radiation treatment, but others will struggle with these issues for years to come. So you see, cancer can be a lifelong issue for some patients and can include embarrassment, fear, and continued pain. Cancer scares me, as I imagine it does everyone who is diagnosed with one of its many forms, but we move forward.

Donating to the Hurwitz Cancer Fund will help to ensure continued research into new treatment methods and improved care for those suffering with not only breast cancer but other cancers that will benefit from your support. Please participate in the many events and opportunities we will be offering over the next month—your neighbors, family, friends, and even strangers thank you. Check out Main Street Thurmont on Facebook for all the events and ways you can support this effort.

   I can be reached at jkinnaird@thurmont.com or by phone at 301-606-9458.

Emmitsburg

Mayor Frank Davis

Does anyone else get the feeling that fall is the busiest time of year? There are so many activities and happenings taking place, schools are back in full swing, and you begin to hear folks talking about the upcoming holiday season. I get such a great feeling after attending many of these events. I just want to highlight a few.

For 68 years, the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show has brought two towns together to proudly display home goods, livestock, and agricultural products. There is so much work that goes into the planning and implementation of this momentous event, and it is never a disappointment. While it takes many hands to make this a success, there is one family that stands above the rest. The Rodman Myers family has been the backbone of this group since its inception. I want to personally thank the Myers Family for keeping this great tradition alive, and I look forward to next year.

Organizations in Emmitsburg were invited to participate in the 4th Annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, hosted by the Thurmont Lions Club. Again, it was great for two communities to come together to honor our country.

To touch on an upcoming event, Colorfest is right around the corner. While Emmitsburg is not directly involved in this festival, we do benefit from the many tourists who visit our community and support local businesses.

When I became mayor a year ago, one of my goals was to collaborate closely with our neighboring community, Thurmont. This has become a reality. Some ask why, and the answer is amazingly simple. We have so much in common. Our children go to school together, play sports on the same teams, and participate in many civic organizations together. In times of emergencies, our fire and police departments work closely to ensure the safety of both communities, and our town staff share resources and information daily. I want to thank Mayor Kinnard and the citizens of Thurmont for embracing this concept. It will only make both communities stronger.

In closing, I want to thank Commissioner Tim O’Donnell for serving 15 years as a town commissioner. He has been instrumental in overseeing many projects over the years that have helped our town grow. With that being said, there is one project that he single-handedly developed: our multi-use trails in the watershed area. With his hard work and dedication, our trails have become nationally recognized, continue to grow, and bring visitors from around the country to our beautiful town. While Tim has decided not to seek another term as commissioner, he will be serving on several committees and will continue to be an integral part of our community.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, or just want to talk about the future of our town, please feel free to reach out so we can find time to meet.

Woodsboro

Burgess Heath Barnes

Burgess Heath Barnes is out of the country and won’t have a column for October. He will be back with more town news next month.

Reminiscing — 1963 Thurmont Catoctin Colorfest Turns 60

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James Rada, Jr.

For 60 years now, Catoctin Colorfest has turned the second weekend in October into an appreciation of beauty both natural and created. Nowadays, around 125,000 people travel to Thurmont to admire the color of the changing leaves in the Catoctin Mountains and browse through the art and craftwork of talented artisans.

Catoctin Colorfest boasts 240 juried exhibits, plus many more vendors in and around the town. You can find original paintings, metal sculptures, hand-sewn quilts, homemade soaps, unique jewelry, and much more.

“The atmosphere for Catoctin Colorfest is really important,” said Carol Robertson with Catoctin Colorfest, Inc., the volunteer group that organizes the annual event. “The locale nestled in the mountains is attractive to people.”

It is the locale that gave birth to Catoctin Colorfest. In 1963, Catoctin Colorfest was not much more than a nature walk. The first four Catoctin Colorfests were nature walks that Catoctin Mountain Park Naturalist Duncan Burchard organized. Those events attracted about 60 people a year and were centered around Catoctin Mountain Park.

In 1968, art exhibits, church dinners, orchard tours and apple butter boiling were added to the attractions. At the park, music and exhibits were added, but the focus was still on the leaves on the trees.

“The three-hour walk leads to Thurmont Vista and Wolf Rock with two of the Park’s most scenic views,” the Frederick News reported.

Attendance grew and buses were used to transport people up to the park. By 1971, 30,000 people were attending the weekend’s activities. Craftspeople began exhibiting at the Thurmont Community Park in 1973. By 1975, attendance was up to 75,000 people a year.

“I can remember when it was just a small group of artisans at Community Park,” Robertson said. “Then we had a few picnic tables in the park with some vendors and we struggled along until the 80s.”

This juried artisan area remains the main element of Catoctin Colorfest, but as the festival has grown, so have the number of areas where people set up booths. Yard sales and non-juried craft shows spring up everywhere around Thurmont. The town closes off blocks of South Water Street and Frederick Road to accommodate the mass of people. The town government also pays for buses to provide a free shuttle service from various parking areas around town, including the schools.

The Thurmont Lions Club was one of the early organizations that saw the festival as a fundraising opportunity. The club sells food to visitors, including deep-fried Snickers candy bars and deep-fried Twinkies.

Catoctin Colorfest represents the largest fundraiser of the year for many community organizations. The local school PTAs park cars at the schools and can raise around $5,000 in a weekend. The American Legion and Guardian Hose Company rent vendor spaces on their properties.

Catoctin Colorfest also donates to town events and supports organizations, such as the Thurmont Food Bank, Thurmont Police, Thurmont Ambulance Company, and Guardian Hose Company.

“Last year, we gave over $20,000 in donations, including $5,000 in gift cards for the food bank,” Robertson said.

Catoctin Colorfest also provides thousands of dollars in scholarships each year. This year alone, the organization has awarded $14,500 in scholarships.

Robertson credits long-time president Bev Zienda for growing Catoctin Colorfest to the size that it is today. Zienda kept the festival going and expanded the marketing to reach more and more people.

Robertson said working on everything that has to do with Catoctin Colorfest—preparing for the show, marketing the show, making donations, and more—is a year-round commitment to both Catoctin Colorfest and Thurmont.

This year, Catoctin Colorfest is celebrating its 60th year, and the event will be recognized with a special proclamation from the State of Maryland during the October 1 Thurmont town meeting.

A photo of Catoctin Colorfest taken near the front entrance to the town park.


Maryland on Stamps…

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Naval Academy,1937/1995

Richard D. L. Fulton

You may fire when you are ready, Gridley. — Naval Academy Admiral George Dewey, Opening of the Battle of Manila Bay, 1898.

On May 16, 1937, the United States Postal Service (USPS) issued a five-cent stamp commemorating the establishment of the United States Naval Academy (USNA) at Annapolis. The stamp featured two midshipmen standing at attention, flanking the academy’s official seal. The first-day-of-issue stamps were postmarked at the Annapolis Post Office.

On October 10, 1995, the USPS issued a 32-cent stamp commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the academy, featuring an academy racing sloop (the 44-foot sloop named the Swift) with the academy chapel seen in the background. As per the 1937 stamp, these stamps were also postmarked in Annapolis.

Today, the Naval Academy has 20 sloops, 16 for training and four for racing, according to the USPS.

The Naval Academy was officially established on October 10, 1845, through the efforts of then Secretary of the Navy, George Bancroft, and was officially designated as the Naval School, an act he was able to achieve without requiring any congressional funding.

The school was established at the 10-acre Army Fort Severn, in Annapolis. According to the Naval Academy website, Bancroft selected Annapolis as the official home of the Naval School in order to deprive enrollees of “the temptations and distractions that necessarily connect with a large and populous city.”

There were several previous naval schools, including the Philadelphia Naval Asylum School and schools in New York City, Norfolk, and Boston. President John Quincy Adams had initially urged Congress to establish a naval academy in 1825, but his vision for one would not materialize until 20 years later.

Another precursor of the Annapolis USNA occurred in the form of the first naval training ship established on the American brig Somers in 1842. The “experiment” was rather short-lived, and ended in a mutiny, for which three of the instigators were hung from the ship’s yardarm (a timber spar/beam located on a mast from which the sails are set).

The first class enrolled at the Navy School (which became the Naval Academy in 1850) consisted of 50 midshipmen and seven professors, and included such courses as mathematics, navigation, gunnery, steam (powered engines), chemistry, English, natural philosophy, and French, according to the USNA.

Also in 1850, midshipmen (students) attended for four years, in addition to training aboard ships during the summers, and the academy grew from its original 10 acres to 338 acres in size, and the class grew from 50 midshipmen to 4,000, according to the USNA. Today, the enrollment numbers are around 4,500 students.

In 1933, Congress authorized the academy to award Bachelor of Science degrees. Today, graduates also receive commissions as ensigns in the Navy, or as second lieutenants in the Marine Corps.

There have been, and continue to be, many noteworthy graduates from the Naval Academy. Among the array, one noteworthy historic standout was Geroge Dewey, who became the only Naval Academy graduate to have achieved the rank of admiral. Dewey is best known for his command, under the rank of commodore, of the United States naval forces during the Spanish-American War, when his fleet engaged that of the Spanish in Manila Bay, Philippines, on May 1, 1898.

When Dewey’s fleet came within range of the Spanish, Dewey ordered the flagship’s captain, Charles Vernon Gridley, to open up on the enemy, with the famous command, “You may fire when you are ready, Gridley.”

By the end of the engagement, the Spanish fleet had sustained 167 men killed, and 214 wounded. Dewy’s fleet suffered only seven wounded.

The following year, Dewey was promoted to admiral, thus becoming the only USNA graduate to have held that rank.

Local Plumber Launches New Company, Bringing 37 Years of Expertise to the Community

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After 37 years of experience in the plumbing industry, local resident Mark Hopkins (pictured above), alongside his wife, Kristie, has launched a new business: Mountain View Plumbing LLC.

With a career spanning nearly four decades, Mark has worked throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia, holding a range of plumbing positions, including serving as Master Plumber at Mount Saint Mary’s University for the past eight years.

The decision to start Mountain View Plumbing was motivated by a desire for greater work-life balance.

“For nearly 30 years, I worked for large plumbing companies, which meant long hours on the road, away from my family,” Mark recalls. “Eight years ago, I took a position to be closer to home and spend more time with my daughters. As they’re now older, my wife and I began seriously discussing the idea of starting our own business.”

With family roots in Thurmont, the Hopkins family felt it was the perfect time to serve their local community through Mark’s vast plumbing experience.

From residential plumbing repairs to large-scale commercial and government projects, the company provides reliable service for installations, water treatment, gas line work, and more.

“I have 25 years of experience as a certified water treatment expert, and I’m certified in testing for backflow, gas, and other critical plumbing systems,” Mark explained. “If it’s plumbing, I can help.”

For more information, go to MountainViewPlumbingLLC.com, follow their Facebook page, or call 240-288-7947.

Businesses Past…

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sugar’s underselling store

by Richard D. L. Fulton

Sugar’s Underselling Store, also known as Thurmont’s Underselling Store, was—for that particular time—a rather unusual business that operated in Thurmont from 1916 through 1918, one that ultimately accepted eggs in payment for goods purchased.

Sugar’s Underselling Store was essentially a late-Victorian version of today’s Ollie’s or Big Lots, or even Sam’s Club (less the membership fees), premised on buying in bulk and selling cheap.

Apparently, for such a largely successful enterprise, by all period accounts, its precise location in Thurmont still remains a mystery.

What is known is that Sugar’s Underselling Store was founded by Louis Sugar, who opened the store in March 1916.

The Catoctin Clarion reported in its March 23, 1916, issue, “An opening in which everybody will be interested in is that of Mr. Louis Sugar of the Thurmont Underselling Store.”  The grand opening took place on Saturday, March 25.

The newspaper further noted that Sugar was busy “arranging his stock of goods” and that on opening day “will have a large variety of goods to show the public.”

An advertisement placed by Sugar in the March 23 issue of The Catoctin Clarion promised free souvenirs to all ladies who visited the store on opening day.

Within the advertisement, Sugar noted that he was dedicating the new store “wholly to the service of all the people in Thurmont and vicinity,” and further claimed the store would “give your cash greater buying power than it ever had.”

Sugar subsequently placed an advertisement in The Catoctin Clarion on March 30, in which he thanked “all you good people in Thurmont and vicinity for making the opening of the Thurmont Underselling Store a grand success.”

In an advertisement placed in the April 6, 1916, issue of The Catoctin Clarion, Sugar explained that the reason he could sell merchandise at such low prices was that he purchased his stock paying in cash (as per buying stock on credit).

As an example of the wares and prices offered at the store, in a May 30, 1916, advertisement, he listed ladies’ crepe kimonas (sic) for 79 cents; children’s dresses for 29 cents; young men’s suits for $4.95; corsets for 95 cents; and men’s odd coats for $1.98.

What about the eggs?

Beginning in late May 1917, without explanation, Sugar decided to accept eggs in lieu of cash payments for items purchased, which was posted in every advertisement that appeared in The Catoctin Clarion, from May 24, 1917, through September 19, 1918.

But one explanation might be “eggflation” experienced during 1917 and 1918, when the retail price for eggs rose to 40 cents up to 90 cents per dozen. This comes to about $7.75 to $14.93 a dozen in todays money, according to greenmachinefarm.com.

However, the more than three-year run from the opening day on March 25, 1916, until September 28, 1918, came to a sudden end, with an advertisement placed in the September 26 issue of The Catoctin Clarion, declaring that Thurmont’s Underselling Store was holding “the greatest closing-out sale ever held.”

The close-out sale was slated for Saturday, September 28. In his close-out advertisement, Sugar had declared, “The bargains I will give you will be the talk of the town for years to come.”

The Catoctin Clarion reported in its September 26 issued that “In this issue, our readers will find the announcement of Mr. Louis Sugar, not for a great Fall and Winter (sale) Opening, but to the contrary that he is going out of business.”

The newspaper further wrote, “The uncertainty of his being called or not called to service in the army has caused him to take this step,” noting that Sugar “had made many friends since he came to Thurmont.”

The whereabouts of Sugar thereafter remains even more obscure than the former location of his store.  Apparently, he did move from the area, possibly to Baltimore. In an advertisement placed in The Catoctin Clarion, on October 24, 1918, Sugar stated, “Lots of household furniture for sale. Store room to rent. Apply to Louis Sugar, Thurmont.


Sugar’s Underselling Store advertisement from 1917, stating eggs acceptable in lieu of cash.

BusinessBriefs

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Emmitsburg New Business and Development Briefs
The following are the statuses of new businesses and developments coming to Emmitsburg from the town planner’s report:

Federal Stone (Creamery Road, east side of US 15) — Under construction. Passed the most recent county inspection of onsite footers. Awaiting formal request for partial bond release.

Seton Village — The town is awaiting signatures and the fee in-lieu for forest conservation.

MSMU School of Health Professions (South Seton Avenue) — Passed the most recent County inspection.

Village Liquors Plaza Inn (Silo Hill Plaza) — The county extended the grading and stormwater management permits.

Emmitsburg Distillery (East Emmitsburg Industrial Park II Lot 4) — The developer to address the town engineer comments to align plans with Creamery Ct. improvements. The county is currently reviewing improvement plans. Awaiting site plan application for zoning certificate needed for building permit.

Christ Community Church (Creamery Road) — The planning commission tabled the improvement plans. The project engineer to address town engineer’s and planner’s comments. A conditional zoning permit was issued. The developer must pay all tap fees in full to receive approval of improvement plans.

Emmit Ridge — The developer is coordinating with county staff regarding stormwater.

Upcoming

McNair Property — The land survey, which is a required component of the annexation application, has been completed by the property owner.

The Dream Price Paid

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Joan Bittner Fry

Today, I’m going to Trout’s Market. Should I call them at 5074 or go to their store on East Main Street? They would probably have that nice, young kid deliver my groceries, but it’s a beautiful day, so I’ll go to their store. Maybe I’ll run into some friends. Let me look at their ad in The Enterprise.

I see they have Esskay round bologna for 25 cents a pound, two heads of lettuce for 29 cents, and, oh my, six cans of Dulaney frozen orange juice for only a dollar. I love Kounty Kist peas, and they’re two cans for just a quarter. Cheez-It crackers are my favorite snack, and I can’t go wrong at two boxes for 33 cents. I hope I have enough money.

I just woke up and was having a dream about the food prices in Thurmont in 1956—the year I graduated from Thurmont High School. Times were very good. We took them for granted. Would we like to go back?

Fossil Collecting in Maryland

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Part 1: From the Bay to Frederick
During the course of hundreds of millions of years, the land that comprises Maryland had undergone countless transitions, from being located under oceans to being locked up in a mountain chain as high as the present-day Himalayans.

In the beginning, after billions of years of “cooling off” following its creation, Earth was initially an oceanic planet, with the first-known land mass to rise above the ocean some 3.2 billion years ago.

Maryland’s oldest “window in time” can be found in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which have been dated around 1.1 billion years old. But don’t bother looking for signs of prehistoric animals among them.  Traces of any life that might have existed then would have long been eradicated through metamorphosis—a rock-altering process, which would have destroyed any fossils that might have existed.

Calvert Cliffs

One of Maryland’s most renowned fossil sites is those of the Calvert Cliffs (also known as Scientists Cliffs) of the Western Shore of the Chesapeake Bay. In fact, the first fossils described from North America were collected from these cliffs.

Prior to the mid-1970s, there were many publicly accessible fossil sites within the 25-mile length of the cliffs. However, today, collecting is permitted only within a small portion of the series of cliffs, this being specifically within the confines of the Calvert Cliffs State Park. 

The fossils contained within the cliffs range from 15 to 20 million years of age and were deposited in a sea that covered much of eastern Maryland, during a period of time known as the Miocene Epoch.

This was a time when 60-foot Great White sharks patrolled the Maryland shoreline, sharing their habitat with over 600 species of other prehistoric animals, including other sharks and rays, whales, porpoises, fish, marine crocodiles, sand dollars and sea urchins, coral, sponges (the writer of this article discovered the first fossil sponges—which also represented two new species—reported from the cliffs, which were presented to the Smithsonian Institute), mollusks (which include snails and clams and other types), and crabs.

Non-marine fossils are sometimes encountered, such as sea birds. Even prehistoric elephant teeth and other land mammals whose remains were washed into the sea via rivers have been encountered.

To arrive at the Calvert Cliffs State Park (CCSP), take Route 2/4 south to approximately 14 miles south of Prince Frederick. Exit onto H.G. Trueman Road, where the park entrance is located. Once at the park, the shortest route to the fossil-bearing beach is the 1.8-mile Red Trail, according to the CCSP. 

There is a fee to collect at the beach, which is $5.00 per vehicle ($2.00 additional for out-of-state residents); $10.00 for a small bus; and $20.00 for a large bus. Parking fees must be paid in cash only.

Fossils may only be collected on the beach. Digging in the cliff is prohibited for safety reasons (and to prevent landslides and washouts).

For additional information, contact the Calvert Cliffs State Park at 443-975-4360.

Dinosaur Park

Around 155 million years ago, during a period of time known as the Early Cretaceous, Prince George’s County was covered with freshwater wetlands adjacent to an ancient river, which was inhabited by early dinosaurs.

The present day remains represent several types of Early Cretaceous dinosaurs that have been found in the Early Cretaceous of Maryland.   (Don’t expect to run across a Tyrannosaurus rex—the dinosaurs found here are 50 million years older than the Tyrannosaurus rex).

The park allows supervised digging, overseen by an on-site paleontologist (one who studies prehistoric life). However, there is a catch. Those finding dinosaur remains during the dig are not allowed to keep what they find. 

However, according to the Dinosaur Park website, “Digging is prohibited by visitors. Instead, you will learn surface collection techniques used by paleontologists in the field. Your fossil discoveries help park paleontologists better understand the ancient world of Prince George’s County. All fossils are stored and preserved in our Dinosaur Park lab. If you find a significant fossil, your name is recorded with it! You will be forever immortalized in our museum collection.”

If one wants to merely enjoy a chance of finding a dinosaur fossil (most likely a tooth or a bone), this site could fulfill at least that much.

For more information on scheduled digs, contact the Dinosaur Park by email at dinosaurpark@pgparks.com, or by calling 301-627-1286.

For more information on collecting dinosaurs in Maryland, refer to Maryland Geological Survey Educational Series No. 6, Dinosaurs in Maryland by Peter M. Kranz free at mgs.md.gov/output/reports/ES/ES_6.pdf.

“Wildcatting” in Frederick County

During the early 2000s, the writer of this article discovered the largest early-dinosaur fossil site that had ever been found in Maryland. However, the 140-acre site is located on private land. 

The 220 million-year-old fossils recovered from the site included hundreds of fossil reptile and insect tracks, millipedes, and even complete fish (scales and fins included). 

The site represented mud flats preserved adjacent to a prehistoric lake (dubbed Lake Lockatong), which existed from Rocky Ridge, growing in size towards the northeast, as it sprawled through Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and into New York State. Some believe that this great lake had covered an area equivalent to the presently existing Lake Tanganyika in Africa, at some 20,000 total miles in size.

Although the public at large is not permitted to collect at the 140-acre site, several roadcuts exist from Rocky Ridge to Old Frederick Road, which have produced plant leaves and branches and the remains of freshwater clam shrimp, which were deposited in backwater eddies associated with the main lake located on the 140-acre site.

For those interested in trying their luck at finding one of these satellite sites, the roadcuts in the general area as noted have produced numerous fossils, specifically, plant fossils and freshwater clam shrimp have been found in a telltale greenish, silty shale.

When examining roadcuts, find a place to safely pull off the roadway and keep an eye out for traffic on any narrow roads. While digging, ensure that any chunks of shale or rock do not roll onto the roadway.

The first (and only) Late Triassic dinosaur tracks that have been found in Maryland came from an abandoned flagstone pit located just outside of the Emmitsburg Town Limits and had been found in the 1800s.  The site is on private property, which at one point even had mounted security cameras along the road leading to the site, and the residence beyond.

But who knows. There could be (and likely is) one or more as yet undiscovered dinosaur-track-bearing sites lurking in Frederick County.The “Really Old Stuff”

After all, Maryland has, paleontologically, been one of the most researched sites in the Mid-Atlantic, beginning back in the 1700s… and yet the largest Triassic dinosaur age fossil site was not discovered until the early 2000s!

The “Really Old Stuff”

Part 2 of “Fossil Collecting in Maryland,” which will appear in the November edition of The Catoctin Banner, will address fossil sites west of Frederick County.

The fossil sites west of Frederick County consist of layers of rock dating as far back as hundreds of millions of years ago, long before the dinosaurs existed, when the land comprising Maryland lay below the oceans and predate the formation of the Appalachian Mountains.

Photo Credit: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Forgotten WWII Mural Now on Display at Fort Ritchie

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Fort Ritchie is known for the work performed there during World War II by the German Jewish ex-patriots known as the Ritchie Boys, who served as translators and interrogators of prisoners and military intelligence. What isn’t as well known is that a unit of Japanese Nisei (second-generation Japanese American citizens) was stationed at the fort and helped in a similar way as the Ritchie Boys.

In 1998, while the Pen-Mar Development Corporation was working on restoring what is believed to have been a documents library while the fort was open, a mural painted most likely by a Japanese soldier was discovered.

The roughly 12-foot by 4-foot mural shows four people, who appear to be Asian, creating pottery. It is believed a Nisei painted it in 1944 or 1945.

“The figures are somewhat ambiguous, which is a testament to the style,” said Nick Riley, curator of the Nisei Gallery at Fort Ritchie. It is an artisan gallery that also showcases the mural.

It had been covered over with particles and was discovered when renovation work began on the building.

“It worked because otherwise it may have been covered in graffiti like many of these older buildings are,” said Riley.

Under the new ownership of John Krumpotich, employees have worked to ensure the preservation of the mural and discover who painted it. Krumpotich’s company received a $225,000 grant from the Maryland Division of Housing and Group Improvement’s Group Legacy program to aid in the preservation.

The mural is now lighted behind glass, but it is not without some damage. Holes in the wall show where screws and other anchors used to be. Some of the graffiti from vandals does creep up into the bottom of the mural. Something else dripped down from above, staining part of the top of the mural. One of the figures in the mural is damaged from decaying plaster.

“There was also a figure where a door was cut between the buildings that is now lost,” said Riley.

There is also a blank space between two of the figures that may have another figure under a layer of paint. Riley stated that they would love to have it examined in the way reused canvases are examined to find older paintings beneath newer ones.

However, the question remains: Who painted the mural?

Last year, the Baltimore Sun reported that Nobuo Kitagaki, a Japanese American soldier from California, who was sent to Japanese concentration camps, had been identified as the artist. Kitagaki was an artist and may have been the painter of the mural, but he is not alive to ask. He died in 1984.

According to the Baltimore Sun, “How historians searched for the mural’s artist in December 1944, the War Department, known today as the Department of Defense, announced a National Army Arts Contest to stimulate interest in art as an off-duty recreational activity during the war.”

Of the 9,000 entries submitted to the contest, 1,500 were displayed in regional exhibits, including Baltimore. Some of the art can be found in a book titled, Soldier Art.

“On Page 130 was an illustration, which to me showcases the same kind of artistic style and composition as the Ritchie mural,” Landon Grove, former curator of the Fort Ritchie Museum, told the newspaper.

The art in question, “Design for Ballet — Indian,” was drawn by Pfc. Kitagaki at Fort Snelling in Minnesota.

Historian Beverley Driver Eddy, author of Ritchie Boy Secrets: How a Force of Immigrants and Refugees Helped Win World War II, Kitagaki trained at Fort Ritchie from May 2 to June 15, 1945.

However, Riley said another connection has been found recently that could point to another unknown artist.

“We found plans from 1959 for the building to become a potter’s studio,” said Riley.

The connection between the mural’s pottery theme and plans for the building seem too coincidental.

“It seems like the plans for the building could have inspired someone to paint the mural, or it might have been commissioned,” said Riley.

Both possibilities for the mural have merit. The problem is that there just isn’t enough information available to know which is most likely. Riley and Katy Self, Fort Ritchie Museum Curator, are planning to make a trip to the National Archives to see if they can find more documentation about the origins of the mural.

Until then, the mural is now protected and preserved for people to view a unique piece of Fort Ritchie’s history.

Community Difference Maker

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Katie Warthen

Nominated by: Phyllis Kelly

At 93, Katie Warthen (pictured right) still smiles as she reminisces about her time spent rebuilding the Emmitsburg Library. Originally from Kentucky, Katie moved to Emmitsburg after high school to help her sister care for her children. In 1952, not long after her move, she met her late husband, John (Bud) Warthen, who worked at the American Store, now known as the Ott House. Katie passed the store daily on her way to the shoe factory where she worked. The couple eventually married and had six children.

During this time, Katie also began volunteering at the Emmitsburg Library. She fondly remembers Susan Chatlos, the wife of a local pastor, taking a deep interest in the library and forming a board of directors. According to the Emmitsburg Dispatch1, the library, established in 1906, is the oldest in Frederick County. However, after the Great Depression, the library struggled due to waning interest. This was when Katie stepped in to volunteer. At that time, the library occupied a small room and was open just two hours a week.

With Katie’s dedication, the library extended their hours of operation. Katie would open the library from 10:00 a.m. to noon, go home and start making dinner, then go back to the library from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., then come home and serve dinner, returning back to the library from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. On Saturday, she would be at the library from 10:00 a.m.-noon. She did this a few days each week, all while taking care of her children. Katie eventually went from a volunteer to becoming an official Frederick County Public Library employee in 1962.

Working closely with the board of directors, Katie helped develop programs that brought more visitors to the library. She recalls organizing a variety of events, including art exhibits, fashion shows, tea parties, tree plantings, and guest speaker presentations.

“We did anything connected to a book,” she recalled. She also established a reading program for children, which ended with a celebration eating watermelon at the park. Her daughter, Karen Adelsberger, remembers pulling their red wagon filled with watermelons to the park for the festivities. Additionally, Katie initiated the popular Celtic music concerts, a tradition that continues to this day, still sponsored by Frederick County Public Libraries. All of these efforts were aimed at increasing library circulation, which the county closely monitored.

Katie also became a fierce advocate for the Emmitsburg Library when the county considered closing it and moving operations to Thurmont. Community members, with Katie at the forefront, asked pointed questions at meetings, such as, “How much money will you save by moving the library?” Katie is quick to credit the board of directors for its support during this period. “I had a good board of about eight women who were very influential in the community. They knew how to speak up and spread the word,” she recalled.

Over her 37½ years with the library, Katie witnessed significant changes in technology, transitioning from paper records to electronic systems. She adapted to each change, learning the new systems as they evolved.

Katie’s passion for preserving local history didn’t stop at the library. She also founded the Emmitsburg Historical Society, which she says was a natural extension of her work. She even added a display case in the library to showcase artifacts from Emmitsburg’s past.

We want to thank Katie for her dedication to the community, which has allowed Emmitsburg to continue to have a library all these years.

If you know someone who has made a difference in our community, please feel free to nominate them by emailing news@thecatoctinbanner.com.
1B. Weeks. History of the Emmitsburg Library, The Emmitsburg Chronicles. November 17, 2006. https://www.emmitsburg.net/

Katie Warthen in a room that previously served as the Emmitsburg Library, before Warthen’s efforts helped it grow to what it is today.

Bench Dedicated in Memory of Lane “Bub” Miesner

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On September 7, family and friends gathered at East End Park in Thurmont to dedicate a “buddy bench” in memory of Lane “Bub” Miesner.

Lane, a student at Catoctin High School, passed away tragically in December 2023 due to a rare medical condition called Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH).

The family had been working with the Town of Thurmont to come up with a way to honor Miesner’s legacy and decided the bench would offer a place of reflection and remembrance.

The location of the bench at East End Park holds deep meaning, positioned near the ball fields where Lane spent countless hours cheering on his sisters—he was their #1 fan.  During the ceremony, friends and family signed the concrete area around the bench with messages for Lane.

Lane’s mother, Liz Miesner, expressed, “I want to thank all of you for loving and accepting Lane for who he was. And to his classmates at Walkersville and to many friends he made in his short time that he was at Catoctin, for being such a good friend to him. He truly loved you all, and for that, I love you all of you, and I will forever be grateful for the kindness that you showed my son.”

The next time you are at East End  Park, be sure to stop and take a rest on the bench and remember the inspiration Lane was to the entire community.


An ‘In Loving Memory of Lane “Bub” Miesner’ plaque hangs on the back of the “buddy bench” dedicated in honor of Lane.


Many friends and family take time to sign a special message to Lane during the bench dedication ceremony.


Friends and family of Lane “Bub” Miesner gather at East End Park on September 7 to dedicate a “buddy bench” in his memory.

An Article from Garden Talk 1975, by Doc and Katy Abraham

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Submitted by Joan Bittner Fry

Fireplace Wood

Seasoned wood of any kind will burn better than unseasoned wood. In other words, the percentage of water removed from each piece of wood determines the heat value and burning qualities of the wood. If left outdoors, seasoning takes place and you get wood with more heat in it. Any kind of wood is suitable for burning. Perhaps the best way to describe the burning qualities of wood types is by using this curious but factual poem.

Beechwood fires are bright and clear if the logs are kept a year.

Chestnut’s only good, they say, if for long it’s laid away.

Birch and fir logs burn too fast, blaze up bright and do not last.

Elm wood burns like a churchyard mold, even the very flames are cold.

Poplar gives a bitter smoke, fills your eyes and makes you choke.

Apple wood will scent your room, with an incense like perfume.

Oak and maple, if dry and old, keep away the winter cold.

But ash wood wet and ash wood dry; a king will warm his slippers by.

Don’t Waste Anything

Old timers have an expression, “Waste not, want not.” This is another way of saying, if you don’t waste, you’ll have enough to live on. Just a couple of years ago, someone figured that the average family threw out three-quarters of a ton of food annually. No doubt, with the high price of food, this figure is a lot more today.

Egg Shells — Break them into small pieces and put them in your bird feeder. Some bird people think other birds steal eggs to get the calcium, so use your egg shells. Some gardeners soak the shells in water and use the liquid on their African violets.

Coffee Grounds — There’s nothing better in the flower bed or vegetable garden than coffee grounds. They are also useful as a mulch around trees, shrubs, and evergreens. Very valuable as a soil conditioner, but they are low in nutrients (about 2% nitrogen, .4% phosphoric acid, and about .5% potash). They are acid and ideal around azaleas, rhododendrons, and other acid-loving plants. Tea leaves are also useful on the compost and in the garden.

Potato Peelings — They are great for the compost. In the spring, peel potatoes thicker than usual and plant the peelings in the garden. You’ll get a big crop of tubers in the fall.

Grapefruit and Orange Rinds — In fall and winter, they can be tossed on the compost pile; but, in summer, they’re great for trapping snails. Place them cup-side-down in the garden. Snails like citrus skins and will hide under them during the day. Then, gather and destroy the snails.

Mother Seton School Inducts New Members into the National Junior Honor Society

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Mother Seton School is pleased to announce that on September 9, nine eighth graders were inducted as the newest members of the Archbishop James Bayley Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS). These students were selected based on their academic achievement and strong character: Tierney Burns, Sofia Canadas-Fraga, Trent Faller, Philip Field, Danielle Golden, Presley Green, Kaleb Vaughn, Lucy Whittington, and Grace Williams.

The NJHS is an international student organization that recognizes high-achieving students in grades 6-9. Mother Seton School’s NJHS chapter, based on the organization’s five pillars, aims to create enthusiasm for scholarship, stimulate a desire to render service, promote leadership, develop character, and encourage good citizenship in the students.

NJHS members perform acts of service throughout the school year, which is in keeping with Mother Seton School’s mission of building solid Christian values such as service to others. “These students have shown their willingness to work to offer service not only to Mother Seton School but to the local community,” said Christopher Cosentino, faculty advisor to the Archbishop James Bayley chapter. The chapter recently received the Pillar Award for Excellence in Service in recognition of their service projects.

“I was proud to have the opportunity to induct these students into the NJHS,” Cosentino added. “They are great role models for the younger students in demonstrating the scholarship, leadership, and citizenship we inspire our students to strive for.”

Mother Seton School announces the newest members of the Archbishop James Bayley Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society. All are in grade 8: (L-R) Sofia Canadas-Fraga, Tierney Burns, Philip Field, Trent Faller, Danielle Golden, Presley Green, Kaleb Vaughn, Lucy Whittington, and Grace Williams.

Catoctin High School Earns National Banner Recognition from Special Olympics North America

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Catoctin High Is Third FCPS School to Earn Banner Recognition from Special Olympics

Catoctin High School earned national banner recognition from Special Olympics North America for schoolwide efforts to provide inclusive sports and activities for students with and without special needs.

Catoctin earned this status by meeting 10 national standards of excellence in the areas of inclusion, advocacy, and respect. The primary activities within these standards include Special Olympics Unified Sports® where students with and without disabilities train and compete as teammates, inclusive youth leadership, and whole school engagement. National banner schools should also demonstrate they are self-sustainable or have a plan in place to sustain these activities into the future.

“We are so proud of Catoctin High earning this national honor,” FCPS Superintendent Dr. Cheryl L. Dyson said. “All students should have the ability to excel and enjoy physical education activities, and our schools are proud to choose to include students in activities.”

Catoctin High is the third FCPS school to earn national banner recognition, joining Twin Ridge Elementary and Tuscarora High.

Catoctin High, Urbana High, Gov. Thomas Johnson High, and Tuscarora High earned 2024 Special Olympics Maryland Unified Champion school status.

Special Olympics Maryland is a longtime FCPS partner and provides opportunities for students to get involved in physical activities. More than 250 schools in Maryland are currently participating in Special Olympics Unified Champion programming

A Voice for Football and A Heart for Community

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Alisha Yocum

On a warm autumn day at Eyler Park in Thurmont, as Catoctin Youth Association (CYA) football players and cheerleaders take the field, spectators settle in for a thrilling game. The air hums with energetic play-by-play commentary from the loudspeakers—phrases like “That’s enough for a Catoctin first down!” and “There’s laundry on the field!” echoing across the park. What many don’t realize is that the voice guiding the action belongs to Lucas Bradley, a sophomore at Catoctin High School (CHS).

Lucas’ journey with CYA began when he was just a young boy. Todd Krietz, a former football coach, noticed Lucas’ deep knowledge of the game and invited him to join the team to assist on the sidelines. Lucas, diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at an early age, faces challenges with mobility, but his passion for football and sharp understanding of the sport made him a perfect fit for the role.

Lucas credits his love for sports to the many games he watched growing up with his parents, Dan and Tracey Bradley. From a young age, those shared moments helped Lucas develop his football knowledge, which he now brings to life every time he steps behind the microphone.

Now, all these years later, Lucas is giving back to CYA by volunteering his time in the press box during CYA home games. He and his family arrive early on Saturdays and provide commentary for each game throughout the day.

CYA isn’t the only place you’ll see Lucas giving back to his community. You’ll also spot him on the sidelines of CHS’s varsity football and lacrosse teams. He also helped at the CHS Community 5K & Fun Run, ensuring that athletes stayed hydrated during the event.

Lucas hopes that announcing at CYA games will give him the experience needed to one day call high school games, with his ultimate dream of becoming a professional sports announcer.

Lucas’s father, Dan, wanted to personally thank CYA and CHS for being so accommodating for Lucas. He also wants to thank all the volunteers. “The amount of commitment, work, and time that volunteers put in for the kids, for the organization, and the community as a whole is awe-inspiring.”

SPORTS TALK

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with Michael Betteridge

What Happened To Mountainball?

High school sports opened the fall season officially on Tuesday, September 3, with golf, soccer, and volleyball. The following day, girls flag football and field hockey kicked off. The opening fall season sports week continued on Friday, September 6, with football, and then cross-country track on Saturday, September 7. That’s seven great high school competitive sporting events.

With one full month under our belts, as we slip into October, some questions need to be answered. What has happened to Catoctin sports? 

Between the seven sports I just described, our teams have a combined win-loss record of 3-17. One win for boys soccer. The girls are 0-3. Girls flag football is 1-3. Field hockey is 0-3.  And our beloved Cougars football team is 1-3, heading into homecoming, having been defeated two in a row, then pulling out a stunner to beat Williamsport. I’m still trying to catch up to the cross-country team. What happened to Mountain Ball?

Meanwhile, our neighbors in Frederick County—Walkersville and Linganore—are destroying opponents. Walkersville football beat Poolesville 70-0 in mid-September, and that was with a running clock and a sportsmanlike knee down to keep from scoring more points in the second half. Linganore crushed South Carroll 42-3 that same week. That’s a combined score of 112-3! And Linganore proved why they were in the championship last year, beating Walkersville 49-12.

I know it’s easy to get down on programs when things are tough. In my junior year in football, we headed into our last game without a win at 0-9.   Coach thought it was funny to call me “Beverage” because it sounded like Betteridge, and it made my teammates laugh all season. He announced on our last game on the bus to Churchill that if we beat the Bulldogs, he would call me by my right name. My teammates privately told me they would make it happen just to see him stop teasing me. We tied that game and finished the season 0-9-1. On the bus ride home, Coach stood up, and in front of the entire team, announced: “Beverage will be buying the beverages when we get back to school.” No one laughed. It was dead silent.

It reminds me of that old saying by the Washington Redskins Coach George Allen: “Losing is like dying.”

Come on, Cougars! Give me some wins, and I’ll buy the “beverages.”

From May To December

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A serial fiction story for your enjoyment

written by James Rada, Jr.

T h e C a t o c t i n B a n n e r b r i n g s y o u . . .

11: Happy Birthday

Bobby Hennessey slowly opened his eyes, the bright morning light stabbing at his head like knives. As he shifted in bed, he could feel the dryness of his mouth and the throbbing in his temples. He had only indulged in two beers the night before, but he felt as if he had downed an entire bottle of whiskey. Then again, how long had it been since he’d had a beer?

As he sat up, he realized that the pounding was not just in his head. Someone was knocking loudly on his front door.

Dragging himself out of bed, Bobby slipped on a robe and stumbled toward the door. It swung open to reveal Peter Lawrence, the son of Bobby’s farm manager, holding a grocery bag filled with ingredients.

“Can you help me make a cake, Bobby?” Peter asked eagerly. “I already bought everything we need from Weis.”

Bobby ran a hand through his disheveled hair. “I can help, but why not ask your mom?”

“It’s for her birthday,” Peter explained. “I want to surprise her tomorrow.”

Bobby nodded, understanding now. “How old is she turning?”

“I don’t know,” Peter admitted sheepishly. “You know how she is about her age.”

Bobby knew. He had tried to get her to tell him her age one evening at Rocky’s Pizza, but she had kept the secret better than a Cold War spy.

Bobby stepped aside and gestured for Peter to come inside. “Well, let’s get started then. You can set out all the ingredients in the kitchen while I change. We’ll make her a nice cake and put 50 candles on it.”

Peter’s forehead wrinkled. “I don’t think she’s that old.”

Bobby grinned. “I know she’s not, but her reaction when she sees the cake with all those candles will be priceless.”

Ten minutes later, Bobby emerged from his room dressed in jeans and a T-shirt. He joined Peter in the kitchen, where all the ingredients were laid out on the counter. Together, they worked on baking a three-layer German chocolate cake—Peter’s mother’s favorite.

While the finished cake was cooling, Bobby and Peter hopped into Bobby’s truck and drove into Thurmont to buy candles for the cake. Along the way, Bobby also picked out a birthday gift for Stacy Lawrence, a small gesture to show his appreciation for their friendship.

The following day, Peter eagerly brought his parents over to Bobby’s house from the cottage that Stacy and Peter lived in on Bobby’s farm on Catoctin Mountain. They arrived just as Bobby lit the last of the candles on the cake, which sat proudly atop the dining room table.

“Happy birthday!” Peter announced as he led his parents into the house.

Stacy Lawrence’s face lit up when she saw the towering cake in front of her.

“Peter made it for you,” Bobby stated with a grin, waiting for Stacy to notice the candles.

“Bobby helped a little,” Peter added modestly.

“Well, a little, but Peter did most of the work,” Bobby admitted.

“How many candles did you put on it?” Stacy asked inquisitively.

“Get your camera ready, Peter,” Bobby instructed as he held up his phone. “Fifty.”

“Fifty?! I’m not that old,” Stacy protested playfully as Peter snapped a picture.

“If you want fewer candles, then tell us how old you are, really?” Bobby asked with a teasing grin.

She hesitated before finally confessing, “I’m 32.”

“Good enough,” Bobby said with a shrug before swiftly extinguishing 18 of the candles. “You still have to blow out the rest.”

Stacy took a deep breath and blew out the remaining candles, accompanied by cheers and applause from everyone in the room. Peter eagerly cut into the cake and handed her the first slice. She savored every bite and praised him for his baking skills.

“Maybe you should cook dinner sometime,” she suggested playfully to Peter.

“Only if it’s cake,” he replied. “So why didn’t you tell us your age before when we were at the pizza place?”

Stacy glanced at Bobby before admitting with a sheepish smile, “I guess because I feel old. Thirty-two is middle-aged, after all.”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Bobby chided gently. “Thirty-two is still young.”

“You should talk,” Stacy said. “We still don’t even know how old you are, Bobby.”

Bobby laughed. “Fine. I’ll tell you as part of your birthday present. I’m 53.”

“Fifty-three?! You’re old enough to be my father,” Jack Lawrence, Stacy’s ex-husband, exclaimed.

Stacy slapped Jack in the stomach.

“So why didn’t you tell us?” she asked.

Bobby’s shoulders lifted and dropped in a nonchalant shrug. “Well, we had only just met. And people tend to make assumptions about men my age. If you’re just entering middle age, I’m probably well past the halfway point.”

“Then take your own advice,” Stacy retorted. “You’ve still got plenty of years left.”

Bobby reached into his pocket and pulled out a small envelope. “Here’s the rest of your gift,” he said, handing it to her.

Stacy eagerly tore open the envelope, finding two gift cards inside. One was for a high-end beauty salon, so she could treat herself to a luxurious hair appointment, and the other was for a massage at the Catoctin Mountain Massage and Wellness Center.

“I thought you could use some pampering and relaxation,” Bobby explained with a smile.

Stacy’s face lit up with gratitude. “Thank you, it’s perfect,” she said sincerely.

“I also think it will pair well with Peter’s gift,” Bobby added.

Peter reached across the table and handed his mother a card. Inside was a $50 gift card to Bollinger’s Restaurant, one of their family’s favorites.

“When you get your hair done, I’ll take you out to dinner,” Peter promised with a grin.

Overcome with emotion, Stacy hugged her son tightly. “I love it. Thank you both so much.”

Jack chimed in awkwardly, “I would have gotten you something too, but I completely forgot it was your birthday.”

“Well, that assumes you remembered at some point,” Stacy said.

As they continued eating cake and enjoying each other’s company, Stacy couldn’t resist showering Peter with affectionate hugs and grateful words.

At one point, Peter leaned over to Bobby and asked quietly, “Is she okay?”

Bobby patted him on the shoulder understandingly. “I think she’s starting to realize her baby boy isn’t so little anymore.”

Later in the evening, Jack snuck up behind Stacy and wrapped his arms around her in a warm embrace. Leaning in close, he whispered in her ear, “I thought of something I could give you as a birthday gift that you haven’t had in a while.”

“A child support payment?” she asked.

The smile dropped from Jack’s face as he withdrew his hands.

“You always did know how to spoil things,” he muttered with a hint of irritation.

“Jack, I am not your booty call. I am your ex-wife, and I’m trying to help you out because we have a son, but you’re not making it easy.” Stacy’s voice trembled with frustration as she stood in the doorway of the living room, arms crossed over her chest.

“How so? I help out around here. I’m doing chores.” Jack’s voice was defensive as he sat on the couch, feet propped up on the coffee table.

“But are you looking for work? This—you staying here—is not a permanent thing. You doing chores is covering the cost of you staying here, although it doesn’t cover you using my car at night or using my credit card.” Stacy’s words were laced with bitterness and resentment.

Jack shifted uncomfortably, his eyes avoiding hers. He knew she was right, but he didn’t want to admit it.

“I was going to pay you back,” he said weakly.

“With what? You’re not working. This is not working, Jack. You need to make arrangements with whoever your latest girlfriend is and move out, or one night, you’ll find all your stuff in the driveway.” Stacy’s tone was firm and final.

“Don’t be a b…” Jack started to say before Stacy cut him off with a stern look.

“If you finish that sentence, you’ll be out tonight.” Her words hung heavy in the air.

Jack clenched his jaw and stormed outside. Stacy sighed and rubbed her temples. She hadn’t meant to lose her temper like that, but Jack had always known how to push her buttons. It may have worked well in bed, but it certainly didn’t work outside of it.

She glanced up and saw Peter peeking through the slightly open door to his room. Without saying a word, she closed the door gently behind her. As she walked across the hallway towards her own room, she couldn’t help but feel guilty for arguing in front of their son.

Stacy sighed again and walked over to Peter’s door, gently knocking on it. “Peter?”

When he didn’t answer, she opened the door and stepped inside. Peter lay on his stomach, facing away from her and looking out the window behind his bed.

“Why do you have to be so mean to him?” he asked without turning to face her.

“I think both of us were being mean, which we probably shouldn’t have done.” Stacy sat down at the edge of his bed, feeling a pang of guilt and regret.

“You asked him to leave,” Peter said quietly, still not looking at her.

She wanted to explain that Jack had taken her money and wasn’t working, but Peter had probably heard that.

“Your father and I aren’t married anymore. He’s not my responsibility. You are.”

“But we’re still family,” he insisted.

“You and I are family,” Stacy clarified. “But your father and I are not. It’s complicated, sweetie.”

Peter’s brows furrowed even deeper. “If we’re family, then why don’t I stay with him sometimes?”

She wanted to tell him the truth, but how do you explain to a child that their own father didn’t want them? Jack hadn’t fought for custody when they divorced; he had just assumed that Stacy would take care of it. He never asked about visitation either, only seeing Peter when it was convenient for him and never spending the night because he was always at the nearest bar.

“Your father takes you when he can,” she said evasively.

Peter turned away, burying his face into the pillow. “You don’t have to protect me.”

“But it’s my job. I’m your mother.”

“But he’s my father,” Peter protested, his voice cracking with emotion. “Why doesn’t he want me around?”

Tears welled up in Stacy’s eyes, as her heart broke for her son. She almost blurted out that Jack could stay with them, but she knew deep down that he wasn’t here for Peter. He was here because he had nowhere else to go after losing his job.

Having no true answer to give her son that wouldn’t hurt him, Stacy settled on a simple but painful truth. “Your father loves you, Peter.”

Without another word, Peter got up from the bed and walked out of the room, leaving Stacy to fall back onto the mattress in tears.

She wished more than anything that she could make everything right for her son, but some things were just out of her control.

Look Up

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You’re the expert lunar geologist of the first Moon cave exploration mission, currently hoisted up by a rope off the edge of a lunar cave. Probes were sent in advance and deemed the cave as safe. You are in a deep lava tube tunnel in an area of the Moon named “Mare Tranquillitatis.” The “Sea of Tranquility” is an area on the surface of the Moon, which can be seen on its near side, the side we always see. A dark area such as this one is called a maria. The darkened surface being from its richness of basalt, an igneous rock, which means it comes from once-existing lava flows, cooling and solidifying in the process. It was believed by early astronomers that these dark areas were actual lunar seas, the word maria being Latin for sea. The cave you are now descending into was created by ancient lava flows, forming tunnels 2 billion years ago. The Moon is now dead, though, similar to an asteroid, ancient because the lava flows have long gone.

You place your right hand on the rope, currently anchored up off an electric winch, powered by solar-chargeable batteries. If the winch fails,  and you fall, flashes in your mind for a moment, but you distract yourself hastily. You look up to your colleague in the matching space suit positioned above you. You wave him off; he gives you one back and disappears out of your field of view, off the edge of the tunnel you are making your way into. You are lowered further into the cave. Only a staggering 328 feet down, and you’ll make contact with the bottom of the lunar skylight.

You hear your partner on the radio. “You doin’ alright, bud?” he asks. You aim your flashlight down in the abyss below and the bottom comes into view. Rocks the size of cars, scattered on the bottom. The view is suffocating and spectacular at the same time. After a few daunting minutes, you finally make your way to the bottom, quickly loosening the anchor completely on your harness. As you reposition your eyes, you look ahead, deep into a cave smaller than the one you’re already in. It goes on for a couple of yards and shoots to the right. The walls of this cave feel a little closer now, but it’s just your uneasiness rearing its head. After making your way straight promptly, you slowly take the right, you then feel a familiar surface, a surface familiar to you during your time in Alaska as that research assistant. It’s slippery and you quickly lose your footing, falling back. But because of the Moon’s gravity, you fall in literal slow motion, thankfully catching yourself in the process.

Looking down, you see a surface that glistens as the light pours out of your helmet’s flashlight. You have found something amazing: ice water in the lunar caves of the Moon. This find to you was already expected, of course, since the SOFIA mission from 2020 proved that there was ice water on the Moon. The fact that you didn’t practice more caution due to ice being known already is a mystery to you; you chalk it up to the excitement getting the best of you.

You continue your journey onward into the cave, now descending deeper into the lunar crust. Yards upon yards you descend, and you’re starting to think you may never hit the bottom. The light shows to you that the tunnel is starting to bottom out. You make your way down to a cave larger than the one you were just in. It’s magnificent, the walls of this cave towering over you in all directions. The ceiling, high above you, is covered in ice. After taking in the view, you then ascend an embankment. Something then comes into view. It’s even more awe-inducing than that ice you slipped on earlier: a lake inside of the Moon. It’s apparent to you that this is due to a number of things. First, this water most likely comes from ancient comet impacts. Second, this cave is warmer and more pressurized. And, lastly, the cave works as a case to keep the liquid water from escaping into space. You quickly radio your crew mates, “I have found a lake of liquid water inside the Moon.”

Although the story I just told above has never happened, and most likely would not happen in such a way, the train of thought is a fun one to go down, nonetheless. What stands true is that there is a real possibility that subterranean lakes exist in the Moon. The Lunar Prospector spacecraft proved one thing to us, it being that there’s a possiblity that ice water could be found on the Permanently Shadowed Regions (PSRs) of the Moon, areas that never get any sunlight, literally none. A desolate cold wasteland. It was later proved that there was indeed ice water in the PSRs.

The 2020 mission, named SOPHIA, found actual water molecules on even sunlit areas of the Moon. The total amount, a cubic meter in a crater the size of 140 miles, spread across the lunar surface, shows enough water molecules to fill a 12 oz. water bottle, roughly. An amount of water that is 100 times less than the Sahara Desert. In a research paper of the name “Subterranean Lakes on the Moon: Liquid Water Beneath the Ice,” by Andreas Hein, Manasvi Lingam, Marshall Eubanks, and William Paul Blase, it discusses the possibility of liquid water beneath the lunar surface. Underneath the icy regions of the Moon, never touched by sunlight. A staggering amount of ice that weighs equal to 1.3 trillion pounds, although recent studies show that possibly the amount was overestimated. Nonetheless, the Moon’s PSRs contain a lot of ice water.

As for the further exploration of the Moon, we have Artemis II to look forward to, projected to occur in September of 2025. This mission will have a crew go around the Moon. While Artemis III, in September of 2026, will have the first astronauts land near the lunar South Pole. It is my hope that this will aid us in further understanding of the Moon and its rich history. As for lunar cave exploration, currently the European Space Agency Concurrent Design Facility is creating a probe prototype named “Daedalus,” which will be lowered into a lunar cave using a tether. After being lowered it will then disconnect from the tether and roll away autonomously to explore. The tether that Daedalus was brought down with will double as a Wi-Fi receiver, allowing it to send back its findings. The mission will hope to find areas in these tunnels where radiation and temperature are stable. What this means is that we will be one step closer to having astronauts permanently on the Moon.

Between this and the possible water in the caves, the future of Moon exploration is looking very interesting.

The Best Time to Start a Financial Plan is Now

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by Tricia Bush, CPA, CFP®, Partner, Bestgate Advisors


Understanding Estimated Tax Payments

Who Needs to Pay & How to Stay on Track

For many taxpayers, the process of paying taxes is relatively straightforward. Wages are earned, taxes are withheld from paychecks, and when tax season arrives, most of the heavy lifting has already been done.

However, there are millions of Americans who don’t fit into that traditional mold, and, for them, the concept of estimated tax payments becomes critical. Let’s break down what estimated tax payments are, who needs to make them, and how to ensure you’re staying compliant with IRS rules, especially as the year progresses.

What Are Estimated Tax Payments?

Estimated tax payments are quarterly payments made by individuals who have income that isn’t subject to withholding. This typically includes income from self-employment, rental properties, dividends, interest, capital gains, and even gambling winnings. If you expect to owe at least $1,000 in taxes after subtracting your withholding and refundable credits, you are generally required to make estimated tax payments.

Estimated taxes are paid in four installments throughout the year, typically due in April, June, September, and January of the following year. These payments cover both federal income tax and self-employment tax (for those who are self-employed). If you fail to make these payments or don’t pay enough, you may be subject to interest and penalties.

Who Needs to Make Estimated Tax Payments?

Generally, you need to make estimated tax payments if:

You are self-employed, a freelancer, or an independent contractor.

You receive income from dividends, interest, rental properties, or capital gains.

You earn income from a side business or gig economy jobs.

You have substantial gambling winnings or windfalls that are not subject to withholding.

It’s also worth noting that even if you work a regular job, estimated taxes may still be relevant to you. For example, married couples who both work may have insufficient withholding if they don’t coordinate well. Some taxpayers with higher incomes, multiple jobs, or those who itemize deductions may also find that their withholding isn’t enough to cover their full tax liability, meaning they too may need to make estimated payments.

Safe Harbor Rules: Prior Year vs. Current Year Calculations

The IRS provides a “safe harbor” to help taxpayers avoid penalties for underpaying taxes throughout the year. Essentially, if you meet the safe harbor criteria, you won’t face penalties, even if you end up owing taxes when you file your return.

There are two ways to calculate your estimated tax payments to meet the safe harbor:

Prior Year Safe Harbor: This method allows you to avoid penalties if your total tax payments (including withholding and estimated tax payments) are at least 100% of the tax you owed in the prior year (or 110% for higher-income taxpayers). This is often a simpler approach, as it involves looking at last year’s tax return to determine how much you need to pay.

Current Year Safe Harbor: This method bases your payments on your projected current-year income. If you expect your income to fluctuate significantly from last year (perhaps due to a new business venture, job change, or investment gain), you may want to calculate your payments based on this year’s expected tax liability. To avoid penalties, your payments must cover at least 90% of your projected tax liability.

While these rules provide flexibility, it’s important to stay on top of any changes in income throughout the year and adjust your payments accordingly to avoid falling short.

Income Outside of Wages: Who Typically Needs to Make Estimates?

Aside from self-employed individuals and small business owners, several other groups of taxpayers frequently need to make estimated tax payments.

Investors: Those who have significant income from dividends, interest, capital gains, or other investment earnings may need to make quarterly payments. Even if you’re not actively managing your portfolio, a few well-timed stock sales or unexpected investment income can push you into underpayment territory.

Landlords: If you own rental properties, income from rent or the sale of a property can generate tax liability not covered by withholding. Real estate professionals often find themselves in need of making estimated tax payments, especially if they have substantial depreciation write-offs and other tax strategies in play.

Married Couples: Some married couples may find that their combined wages result in a tax shortfall, especially if both spouses are working but don’t adjust their withholding to reflect their joint income. Additionally, if one spouse earns income from a side business or freelance work, it may exacerbate the issue.

The Withholding Advantage: A Way to Catch Up

If you’re behind on your estimated taxes for the year, there is a useful workaround that many people overlook: increasing your paycheck withholding. The IRS treats tax withheld from your paycheck as being paid evenly throughout the year, even if it’s deducted in large amounts later in the year. This means that if you’re behind on estimated taxes, you can instruct your employer to withhold more tax from your paycheck during the final months of the year to catch up and avoid penalties.

To do this, you’ll need to adjust your W-4 form with your employer to reflect the additional amount of tax you want withheld. You can also make one-time changes or extra payments, especially if you’re expecting a bonus or commission payment.

This strategy is particularly helpful for individuals who have a mix of wage income and income from other sources, such as dividends, rentals, or a small business. By strategically increasing withholding, you can avoid scrambling to make large estimated tax payments at the last minute.

Final Thoughts: Staying on Top of Your Taxes

Making estimated tax payments may seem like a burden, but they are crucial for ensuring that you’re on track with your tax obligations throughout the year. Whether you’re self-employed, earn significant investment income, or have multiple sources of income, understanding your tax liability and staying current with your payments is key to avoiding penalties and interest.

If you find yourself behind, remember that it’s not too late to take corrective action. Whether by increasing your withholding or making catch-up payments, staying proactive will help keep you in the IRS’s good graces and make tax season a little less stressful.

Stay organized, monitor your income changes, and seek professional tax advice if needed to ensure you meet the IRS’s requirements and avoid any surprises when April comes around!

Once Upon a Time

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James Rada, Jr.

Note: Newspaper excerpts are as they appeared in their respective issues.

October 1924, 100 Years Ago

Annual Convention of Pythian Sisters

The fourth annual convention of Pythian Sisters of District No. 2, of Maryland, was held in Thurmont Monday afternoon and night with 82 delegates present from the six temples comprising the district, and many visitors, Grand Chief Rebecca Russell, of Hagerstown, and District Deputy Nate Sterner, were present. Mrs. Viola Sutter, Brunswick. District Deputy, presided at the afternoon meeting, which was occupied with routine business.

                                – Frederick News, October 7, 1924

Another “Bootie” Gets Six Months Term In Prison

“Things are not obtained easily in this world and success comes only through hard work,” Associate Judge Robert B. Peter told Harry Hewitt, about 35, of near Thurmont, this morning when he sentenced him to six months in the House of Correction after he had pleaded guilty to selling liquor.

“The only way to break up the liquor traffic is by prison sentences,” said Judge Peter, who added that “fines will never stop it.”

Four separate charges were docketed against Hewitt, but upon entering the plea of guilty on one charge, State’s Attorney Storm requested that the remaining cases be settled.

                                – Frederick News, October 9, 1924

October 1949, 75 Years Ago

Funeral Services For Merchant Held Tuesday

One of Emmitsburg’s most well-known merchants died suddenly Saturday evening. J. Edward Houck, owner and operator of the Emmitsburg Quality Shop succumbed to a heart attack at his home on the Square about 5 o’clock Saturday evening. Mr. Houck had been ill for the past few months. The deceased was aged 63 years and was the son of the late George and Mary (Elder) Houck.

Prior to his entering business here, Mr. Houck was associated for many years with the Airtight Steel Tank Company, Pittsburgh, and later opened a business establishment in Baltimore. Coming to Emmitsburg about 25 years ago, Mr. Houck founded the present clothing concern and operated it until the time of his demise.                             

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 7, 1949

Mrs. Rial Deeds Roddy Quarry To Mt. St. Mary’s

Mrs. Marie Gloninger Rial, St. Anthony’s, has transferred to the President and Council of Mt. St. Mary’s College what is known as the old Roddy quarry, near the College, according to a deed recorded in the clerk’s office, Frederick. Certain easements are also included.

The President and the college agree to tuitional scholarship Mary’s Seminary to be known as the Marie Gloninger Rial scholarship and also make certain other covenants. The deed recites that in appreciation and support of the traditional work carried on by the college for nearly 150 years, the transfer of property, embracing about 1.95 acres, is made. A right of way is given oversuch part of the Clairvaux farm, also owned by Mrs. Rial, as shall provide a direct and convenient approach for a water line to the college, together with a right of way over land extending six feet on each side of the water line. All improvements at the quarry are included, along with the right to maintain a pole and power lines in the place in which equipment is now located or such suitable place as the college may find expedient for the purpose bringing power to the pumps the quarry.

The grantor reserves full noncommercial swimming, fishing and boating privileges in the quarry to the extent that they will not interfere with the grantee (College’s) rights.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 7, 1949

October 1974, 50 Years Ago

Construction Is Under Way on the New Wing for Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary

The Mount Seminary stands out today as one of the few seminaries in the country operating beyond full capacity. It is now accommodating a record enrollment of 164 students and has had to turn 30 applicants away this year.

“With this new addition, every seminarian will be able to have his own room,” says the Rev. Harry J. Flynn, Rector of the Seminary. “Having a private room is absolutely essential, for the spiritual and personal development of young men studying for the priesthood.”

The $375,000 wing, which is at the building site of the being financed by Mount Saint Mary’s current capital campaign, Achievement II, is expected to be completed by April 1, 1975. It will include 42 private rooms for students, six guest rooms and three priest suites. Construction is being done by Roy Kirby & Sons of Baltimore.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 3, 1974

Three Students Receive Notice

Three seniors at Catoctin High School have been named Merit Program Commended students by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Principal Harper Long announced that the following students have received Letters of Commendation: William J. Gray, Warren H. Keefer, and Steven B. Love. These students are among the 38,000 Commended students named on the basis of their high performance on the 1973 Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Commended students are in the upper 2 percent of those who are expected to graduate from high school in 1975. Although the Commended students ranked high on the test, their scores were just below those of the 15,000 Semifinalists who were announced in September by NMSC.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 3, 1974

October 1999, 25 Years Ago

Community Harassed by Thoughtless Teens

 At the September town meeting Frederick County Sheriff’s Deputy Willie Ollie reported that one adult woman, age 18, and three juveniles, ages 14-16, were charged with breaking and entering into a West Main Street house on Friday, September 9. Deputy Ollie said all four were Emmitsburg residents and that he felt these individuals have been responsible for 90% of the recent vandalism in the parks and several burglaries and thefts.

The youths were caught when Thurmont police answered a call from a resident witnessing the break-in. The owners of the home, having experienced several breakins recently, had just installed a 24-hour surveillance cameras which caught the youths breaking into a basement door.

All four were charged with first degree burglary and destruction of property.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, October 1999

Global Anesthesia Systems to Build in Emmitsburg

On the outskirts of Emmitsburg, not far from Route 15, lies an empty plot of land across from the Industrial Park. For most people, this grassy area goes unnoticed, as it has for years.

However, two physicians have sought out this lot as a place to expand their bustling business. Dr. Judy Hutchinson and Dr. Jeffrey Haugh, anesthesiologists who head the Global Anesthesia Systems, are the developers of a new Office/Retail Park located at the corner of Route 15 and Creamery Road.

Global Anesthesia Systems provides office anesthesia services to patients having  procedures done in their doctor’s office or in a surgicenter. They also offer all of the anesthesia services at Hanover Hospital. Dr. Hutchinson and Dr. Haugh travel with their equipment to meet patients throughout the week in such locations as Hagerstown, Annapolis, and Baltimore.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, October 1999

My Two Cents

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by Michele Tester
“Chomping at the Bit”

I don’t know about you, but I constantly feel like I’m being rushed and pushed to the next “thing.” Whatever happened to basking in the moment, enjoying the season you are in? It seems that we are constantly being reminded to be mindful, to live in the moment, seize the day; you read about it, see plaques that display the wise advice, and hear people talk about it. Yet, to be honest, to me it feels like we are living in a time where society is screaming at us to hurry along and get ready for whatever is next; “don’t” live in the moment is being shouted to me from every rooftop. Hurry up, why don’t you?

Society is chomping at the bit, and, whether we realize it or not, we are being sucked right into the scurry.

When I was young, it seemed like summer lasted so long. It was a magical time of playing outside, running and jumping, riding bikes, swimming, and simply being carefree. It seemed like society, as a whole, welcomed and embraced the slow, simple time. Yes, I know I was just a kid; and, in a kid’s mind, summer probably did feel like it went on forever—not rushed, not demanding. But, lately, I feel as though I’m witnessing something else emerging: Society has other ideas about time and season, and I’m not liking them one smidgen.  

Over the past several years, I’ve noticed the slow trickle of stores displaying holiday merchandise and decor a bit earlier and earlier. That trickle has now erupted into a full-fledged soaking. Can I emphasize again that I don’t like it one bit?

This summer, I noticed my pool rafts from last year were worse for the wear. No amount of the “repair” tape that comes with purchasing a pool float—which, by the way, has never worked for me—was going to repair them. So, I decided to head to the store to buy some new pool rafts…in July. There were a couple of things about this excursion that got into my craw. Number one: the shelves were already pretty scarce of pool and summer accessories. Number two: the shelves were scarce because they were starting to stock them with Halloween merchandise. I mean, is it too much to ask to buy a summer pool raft…in July? It’s still summer, people.

It gets worse. On my trips to various stores in July and August to search for assorted pool and summer items, not only did I see Halloween stuff, but I also saw Christmas decorations and displays already out.

What is going on, and how did we get here?

In society’s mixed message of “living in the moment” and “mindfulness,” implying to us that it can have positive effects on our mental and physical health—all the while pushing us and urging us on to the next thing—something has gotten out of whack. And I feel like “they” slid it right past me. Slid it right by me before I could even offer a protest.

I couldn’t even look at all the Christmas stuff already out this summer when I went into a store. It was just too soon. If I want to buy some items I see in stores as early Christmas gifts, great. I love Christmas; it’s my favorite holiday. But, decorations in July and August? Come on. All the holidays are overlapping in stores, blurring each other out.

I believe we are all too “rushed” these days. And what does that rushing feeling produce? You got it: stress and anxiety. We are all so thrust toward getting to that next “thing,” that we forget about enjoying what we are in right at this very moment. Like maybe floating on a pool raft in a pool, leisurely enjoying a hot, summer day. Although, that’s hard to do when you don’t have anything to float on, but I digress.

So, why do the store chains display holiday merchandise way—like abnormally early—before the actual holiday? Here are a few reasons they might tell us: (1) To appeal to shoppers who like to start their holiday shopping early; (2) Early holiday decorations may help shoppers get into the holiday spirit and ponder their gift lists; and (3) Stores may put out Christmas decorations if they have leftover Christmas inventory from the previous year. Yet, I think we can all probably agree on the number one reason they do. Drumroll, please. Money.

I’m not sure how to stop this trajectory we are on. Who’s to say we won’t start seeing Halloween and Christmas displays in stores starting in May? And, while on the subject of holidays, whatever happened to good ole Thanksgiving? Lost in the shuffle. But, that’s a whole other topic.

Anyway, maybe this “pushing” and “shoving” going on doesn’t bother you. Maybe you love seeing Christmas displays in July. Me? I’m tired of being pushed and shoved. I long for earlier times when it wasn’t so rushy-rushy. When summer was summer. To be honest, I believe all this pushy-pushy, rushy-rushy stuff is making people more grumpy, angry, and downright rude. But, that’s a whole other topic, too.

I feel like we have to have some boundaries. Stop pushing this stuff on us. Let us enjoy the moment, sit in the season, and not jump ahead all the time. Maybe, we have to begin to stand up and resist against society elbowing us to move it forward faster. Stop buying into all its subliminal “get to the next thing” messages. Maybe only then could we all slow down a bit, rejuvenate, and actually savor the season we are in.

But, that’s just my two cents.

Looking Back

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by James Rada

Colleges Take to the Skies

When World War II started in 1939, the United States had roughly 38,000 trained pilots. It wasn’t enough to fight a war. Men were willing to join the Air Corps, but there weren’t enough instructors to train them all.

Often, the men waiting to become pilots were members of the Army Enlisted Reserve.

“This Enlisted Reserve consisted of young men who had been picked by the Air Corps after a suitable examination but who had been permitted to stay temporarily in civilian life pending vacancies in the various Air Corps training centers,” the Gettysburg College Alumni News reported.

As the number of pilots increased, it became clear that the best ones were those who had studied subjects pertinent to flying while in college, such as mathematics, physics, and advanced geography. However, fewer and fewer of the Air Corps openings were being filled by college students.

At the same time, many small colleges felt financial strain as their students joined the military and left college. Some colleges even considered closing because of lagging enrollment, according to the Alumni News.

Then, someone realized colleges could be helped and the quality of the pilot candidates improved at the same time. The Enlisted Reserve men would undergo intensive training to prepare them to become pilots at colleges around the country that had classroom space. The Alumni News estimated that the program would pack twice as much education into the same time as a regular college program.

“Thus, then, these institutions could stay open and retain their financial solvency, and the Army Air Forces could get their men trained along exactly the lines that were desired. One other factor which has been somewhat overlooked in regards to the training program, is that that thousands of young men who would normally not go to college had the opportunity of getting a rather good college education and in the collegiate surroundings which mean almost more than the book-work itself,” the Alumni News reported.

Mount St. Mary’s College and Gettysburg College were among the colleges and universities chosen where pilots would be trained, although under different programs.

Gettysburg College took part in Civilian Pilot Training School, which began in Gettysburg in the fall of 1942. Young men received classroom training at Gettysburg College and flying and mechanical instruction at the new Gettysburg Airport on Mummasburg Road.

“It is now possible for an American boy to start from scratch on a flying career and become an Army pilot instructor in 32 weeks,” Richard Bircher told a meeting of the Gettysburg Lions Club in 1942. He was given charge of both the Civilian Pilot Training program and the airport.

The Mount was part of the V-12 Navy College Training Program, which offered students a path to a Navy commission. The program was created to increase the number of Navy officers being commissioned, in addition to those who graduated from the United States Naval Academy and the U.S. Naval Reserve Midshipmen’s School.

Once enrollees completed their V-12-subsidized bachelor’s degree programs, their next step toward obtaining a commission depended whether they were in the Navy or the Marines.

During WWII, more than 125,000 participants were enrolled in the V-12 Navy College Training Program across the United States, of which, 400 young men attended the Mount.

Newspapers announced on June 30, 1942, that the first group of 25 sailors from the Navy would be arriving soon. “Of the 25, ten will begin primary training, ten will start secondary training and five will begin studies of instruments,” the Hagerstown Mail reported.

Besides classroom training, the sailors were also given flight instruction at an airfield, established about a quarter mile from campus. Outside of the classroom work, the Waynesboro airport provided six flight instructors and five teachers for ground school, along with 10 planes. Seven were for primary training and three for secondary work. Coach Wally Opekun was in charge of making sure they were kept in peak physical condition during their time in Emmitsburg.

Gettysburg College was one of the few colleges in the country that offered all four Civilian Pilot Training Courses: Elementary, Secondary, Cross-Country, and Instructor. The college also had the largest quota of students assigned to any one school operator, according to The Gettysburg Times.

During its short service, the CPT program trained 84 men, each of whom had received 35 hours of flying instruction and 240 of ground school training. Besides providing practical experience, the Alumni News reported that the flying time, “also serves the double purpose of giving the classification center and us an insight into whether or not the student is basically unfit to become a pilot, and whether or not the student has a fear of heights, or is subject to airsickness.”

Besides learning to fly, the students took classes in meteorology, navigation, air-engine operations, flight theory, aircraft, aircraft identification, military science and courtesy, military and physical training, code, military force, and organization.

This push for pilots succeeded. By the end of 1942, roughly 200,000 men in the United States were pilots.

According to the Mount website, “In honor of its service to the armed forces training programs, the school received a 3-inch/50-caliber anti-aircraft gun from the USS Detroit—a ship credited with one downed and one assisted downed aircraft during the battle at Pearl Harbor. Two years later Memorial Gymnasium was built and dedicated to the alumni killed in World Wars I and II.”

Sailors in the V-12 Navy Training Program at Washburn University relax with other students in the student union.

Sailors in the V-12 Navy Training Program at Brown University participate in a PE program.
Instructor and students studying map at civilian pilot training school. Meacham Field, Fort Worth, Texas.

Students working on an airplane motor at civilian pilot training school. Meacham Field, Fort Worth, Texas.