Shirley and Franklin Riffle celebrated their birthdays in August. Franklin turned the big 95, and Shirley turned 85.
Frank and Shirley are retired FCPS school bus drivers who safely transported many of our area’s athletes for many years!
Thank you Frank and Shirley and congratulations for staying young after all these years!
A serial fiction story for your enjoyment
written by James Rada, Jr.
4: Preparing
Brian Johnson had discovered where President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s top secret getaway in the Maryland mountains was hidden. It was one piece of the puzzle he needed to find before he could kill the president in the name of the Fuhrer.
He jogged back to his cabin in the OSS training camp to change before his training as an OSS agent began in another hidden camp in the mountains. When he arrived, he saw a pair of soldiers standing guard outside.
He stopped running and walked in circles to catch his breath. It gave him time to think.
Why were they there? They had never had guards outside the cabin before. Had someone gotten suspicious about him?
Brian approached the cabin entrance, but one of the guards held up a hand.
“You’ll have to wait out here for now,” the burly man said. Although the guards wore uniforms, no branch of service was identified, which meant they were OSS agents.
“Why? I need to get changed before my first class,” Brian said.
“The colonel is inside and ordered that no one can enter.”
The colonel? Colonel Smith was in charge of the camp. Brian kept the panic he felt under control. He had created a problem by acting outside of the norm with the run. It was a risk he had needed to take to get information. Now he needed to act within the norm and act as if nothing was wrong.
“I’ll get a shower then. Hopefully, I’ll be able to get back inside then to get fresh clothes.”
The guard said nothing as Brian turned away and walked to the shower house. The small building had four shower stalls inside. Two of the stalls had other recruits from his cabin taking showers.
As Brian stripped out of his sweaty clothes, he said, “Did you see the guards outside of our cabin? They wouldn’t let me inside.”
“They sent us out, too,” a recruit called Jack said. No one in the camp used their real names as a security precaution. Brian’s fake name was Adam.
“Are they looking for something?”
“Who knows? They said it was an inspection, and we needed to leave.”
“Weird.”
“What isn’t in this place?”
Brian stepped into the water stream. It was cold and quickly cooled his hot skin.
Jack was right. Most likely, it was just an odd way they did things in this camp, but Brian was a spy inside a camp that trained spies. He had to be very careful, or he would be captured. Even if they suspected him of something, they wouldn’t find evidence of it in his things or in the cabin. The only personal things he had here were what he had been wearing when he arrived from Miami University in the truck.
He finished showering and redressed except for his sweaty shirt. He walked back to the cabin and saw the guards were gone. When he went inside, everything looked normal. Jack was making his bunk.
“See? They’re gone. No problem,” he said.
“They had you leave without making your bunk?” Brian asked.
“Yea, but I’m not going to risk that now.”
Brian nodded, but said nothing. If the colonel had been inspecting the cabin, an unmade bunk would have warranted some sort of demerit, but apparently not. That made it doubtful that the colonel’s visit had been an inspection.
Brian looked around. What had changed then? Had anything? Why had the colonel been here?
Brian wondered if the room had been bugged. Were spies spying on the spies to see if any of them disobeyed orders while in the cabin?
This was a world of suspicion and deception Brian found himself in.
Their morning instruction that day was in the art of safecracking from someone named Capt. Peters. Peters was a small man with thinning hair and a scar across his neck. He grinned every time someone called him captain, which made Brian doubted that he was actually military. He knew his work, though. He showed the recruits the insides of combination locks so they could understand how they worked. Then he showed his group different ways of opening those locks, from feeling for the tumblers to fall into place while turning the lock dial to drilling through the tumblers to blowing up the safe door without destroying the contents.
Brian was so fascinated by what he was learning, he forgot about planning for his own mission for a while.
During lunch in the mess hall, Brian wondered whether he could break into the colonel’s office. It would have maps and information that would make Brian’s planning easier. However, the cabin had two rooms; one was the colonel’s office, and the other was his aide’s. Besides being their offices, they also slept in the rooms. Although Brian believed he could break into the office, it would be too dangerous to try to enter. Too many people were around during the day who might see him and the colonel and his aide were there during the night.
The afternoon training session was on the “trainazium.” Brian had seen nothing like it before, except for perhaps in a circus. He reported to a clearing with other recruits and saw six telephone-pole-size logs were set into the ground and connected by smaller poles 18 feet above the ground. They were criss-crossed with ropes, nets and cables going every direction.
“This monstrosity is an obstacle course,” Lieutenant Price told them. “Your work in the OSS will challenge you physically, not only in strength, but in dexterity. This course will help you learn to deal with those challenges.”
The recruits then spent the next few hours swinging, running, and climbing along the poles and ropes as if they were monkeys making their way through the jungle. Brian was so exhausted at the end, he could barely open his hand so that it was flat.
After dinner, when Brian was supposed to be going to the latrine, he wandered off toward where he knew the fence to Shangri-La was. He stayed in the shadows as he approached the fence. He spotted Marines on the other side and was satisfied that was where the president would be when he visited.
He also realized he knew how he could get a weapon, and as far as getting through the fence, he didn’t need to get through it. The OSS had been teaching him to think of solutions to problems that were unusual. Yesterday, he had learned to create a knife from a newspaper. Now he could put that newspaper knife to use. As for the fence, he would go under it.
Once he did that, though, it would set things in motion, and he would be committed to his mission. He would have to move fast to make things happen in his favor. He would try to survive, but that was not his mission. He had to focus on killing President Roosevelt, even if it was the last thing he did.
The Catoctin-Ettes, inc., has just completed its in-house twirling and marching contest for its membership. Corps members competed in various marching events, including pom poms, baton, and adult-parent march. In addition to marching, the twirlers performed their twirling skills and competed with various dance moves as they pertain to baton twirling.
The contest gave the twirlers a taste of a different avenue of baton twirling, as they twirled and danced their way through these competitive events. First place trophies were awarded to deserving individuals; and second and third places were also recognized awards.
Parade Strut first-place winners were Kasandra Grimes, Hannah Gonzalez, and Georgia Winslow. Second place was awarded to Janae Rene’, Ruby Elswick, and Sydney Topper. Third place was earned by Isabelle Roath.
Pom Strut trophies were presented to first place winners: Georgia Winslow and Janae Rene, with second-place ribbons going to Sydney Topper, Hannah Gonzalez, Kasandra Grimes, and Ruby Elswick.
Basic Strut, which is a march using two arms, had first-place winners of Janae Rene’ and Hannah Gonzalez. Second place was earned by Ruby Elswick and Kasandra Grimes.
In the event of Basic Skills, in which twirlers demonstrate twirling concepts, first place was earned by Georgia Winslow, Janae’ Rene, and Ruby Elswick. Second-place ribbons were earned by Sydney Topper, Isabelle Roath, and Hannah Gonzalez. Third place went to Kasandra Grimes.
Parade Routine allows the twirler to compete in the routine that is the group’s parade style demonstration. First place trophies were captured by Ruby Elswick and Isabelle Roath with second place going to Janae Rene’.
Presentation is a short program constructed solely by the twirler. First place for admirable work went to Hannah Gonzalez, Georgia Winslow, and Janae Rene’.
The highlight of the contest was the Parent Strut and the Parent-Child Strut. First place was earned by the Rene’ family of marchers in each of the two events. Ruby Elswick also won first place in the Parent-Strut event. Second place was earned by Leann Deardorff, while third place was won by Cheyenne Shaw.
The group now begins work on its annual holiday program, set to be held at Catoctin High School. For more information on the Catoctin-Ettes, inc. and upcoming free baton-twirling courses, contact Donna Landsperger at 240-405-2604 or by email at [email protected]
with Michael Betteridge
Comfort Is The Enemy Of Greatness
Our hometown Catoctin Cougars’ fall sports season began on August 9 at 7:00 a.m. at Catoctin High School, when our guys and gals came streaming through the doors of the school, carrying their gym bags, equipment, and hopes and dreams for the fall 2023 high school sports season. Football, soccer, cross country, field hockey, volleyball, and golf are in full swing with everyone returning to practice exactly two weeks before the first day of school on August 23.
One of the biggest changes at Catoctin is the new artificial turf field, installed throughout the month of August. Some athletes like the artificial surface because it is faster, and some prefer natural grass because it is more forgiving. The one undeniable thing is that you can play on the artificial surface no matter what the weather and that is precisely why Frederick County has upgraded the final four high schools in the county that had natural grass fields: Brunswick, Catoctin, Tuscarora, and Walkersville. Money was allocated by the Frederick County Council in the form of a $10 million Maryland state grant, specifically to upgrade those four schools. And that didn’t sit well with the boosters at Governor Thomas Johnson High School, who raised $200,000 to fund their new turf field in 2021, which took years to raise. Had they waited two years, that money could have been used to benefit the student-athletes because the county and state would have paid for the field. Timing is everything!
There are those who think Catoctin won the lottery with its new field and others who think turf fields harm the environment, cause more injuries, and cost more in the long run with an 8- to 10-year life cycle. Like it or not, Catoctin football, soccer, and lacrosse will be played on an artificial turf field from now on.
But, new fields are not the only change in the fall sports season. Early in August, the Central Maryland Conference (CMC) announced a complete realignment of all the teams in the CMC. Clear Spring was added. The CMC now has 16 schools in the league and has been broken down into two divisions: a small school division with 1A and 2A schools and a large school division with 3A and 4A schools. The small school division will consist of the Antietam and Gambrill subdivisions, and the large school division will consist of the Potomac and Spires subdivisions. Catoctin has been placed in the small school Antietam division, along with Clear Spring, Boonsboro, and Smithsburg. Catoctin football will not be affected by these changes in the CMC since there is no CMC championship for football. The football postseason is guided by the Maryland Public School Student Athletic Association (MPSSAA). For sports other than football, there will now be two CMC championship trophies awarded: one to a small division school and one to a large division school.
Every year at the start of the football season, I like to hang around the Catoctin practice fields, workout areas, and sports classrooms to prepare myself for play-by-play coverage on the radio. I have been doing play-by-play on WTHU here in Frederick County now for 15 years. Just like high school sports, preparation is everything. I also attend the Catoctin football chalk talks and scrimmages, but what I really enjoy is learning from the Catoctin coaches.
Recently, while attending a Catoctin football practice session, Head Football Coach Mike Rich said something to his players that was timeless. I was moved by the words of advice he gave his players. He told them that “comfort is the enemy of greatness.” He is right! Getting up at 5:00 a.m. to make a 7:00 a.m. football practice is uncomfortable. He reminded his players that at that very moment, their classmates were still on vacation and probably in bed asleep. He challenged them with the notion that not everybody belonged in that room. Showing up is easy, but putting in the hard work every day is what will make them Catoctin football players. After Coach Rich was done, I wanted to put on a helmet and pads and suit up to play myself.
Coach Rich, now in his fourth season at Catoctin, is highly motivational. He is building something special on Sabillasville Road, and it’s starting to pay off. Coach Rich keeps pounding his mantra into players over and over again. He calls it the three B’s: Be consistent! Be relentless! Be accountable! Excellent advice for teenage athletes.
Senior Haydn Matthews and Shamus Stull will share time at quarterback this season, surrounded by a very large offensive line. Haydn has matured from last year. He is big and strong and has a cannon for an arm. Stull is a player to watch this season. He ran with teammate and track star Brody Buffington in the 4×100 relay track team. This kid is a burner! With Matthews’ size, arm, and athleticism and Stull’s speed, defenses will go nuts trying to figure out how to adjust to that QB tandem. Robeson and Watkins are huge on the offensive line, with teammates Randy Hall and Braydon Bagent, this could be one of the best o-lines since 2019. At wide receiver, they have real legitimate speed in Charlie Dougherty and Vince Reaver. One of the biggest surprises last year was Logan Malachowski. Logan is a big, strong target with good instincts and a deep threat to take the ball away in a crowd, which he did several times last year in the end zone. The most amazing thing about Logan is that he has only played football for one year. This is his second year ever playing organized football. Logan was also a big part of the Cougars 2023 baseball team, playing centerfield and pitching in relief. I am really excited about this wide receiver corps!
Speaking of baseball, somehow coaches convinced Eddy Titchom, who helped Coach Franklin with the baseball team last spring as a manager, to suit up and play football. He is huge! The biggest guy on the team. He will make an immediate impact on this team. And, finally, junior running back Jake Bell looks bigger and stronger than ever and will carry the load in the backfield behind the wall up front with his teammate running back Wayne Ferson, a thunder and lightning tandem.
The defense is anchored by one of the strongest defensive backfields in recent history. Charlie Dougherty will play both ways, but according to coaches, he is one of the best safeties they have seen in a long time. Charlie will call the plays for the defense. Expect big things from Charlie this season, sticking his nose in there and busting up the opponent’s offense and reading the quarterback’s eyes in the backfield. Pound for pound, the defense is special and the time spent in the weight room this year shows. These guys are big, strong, and athletic. Offense is fun, but defense wins games!
This team is on board with Coach Rich’s three B’s, and with a new turf field to add to the excitement, this Cougars football team will consistently and relentlessly pound their opponents all the way into November.
I predict a very special season for the 2023 Catoctin Cougars football team. On Friday, September 1, the season began at Catoctin High School on their brand new “field of dreams.” Come on out to the new field and cheer our Catoctin Cougars football team to victory. Catoctin can’t win without its twelfth man. That’s you!
Brunswick, Catoctin, Tuscarora and Walkersville high schools have new turf fields installed to start the 2023-24 school year! Now, every high school in the county has at least one turf field.
Helen Xia, CHS Student Writer
What do you think of when you hear the term “back to school?” Undoubtedly, school requires a huge investment of time. Among such time-consuming attributes as seven-hour school days, piles of homework, and morning traffic, school rings another major bell in my mind: back-to-school shopping. Back-to-school doesn’t wait: On the first few days of July—summer had barely lasted for a month at that point—I saw back-to-school signs hanging on the ceilings of Walmart and Target. Abruptly, rows of decorative vases and towels were replaced with seas of backpacks, notebooks, and pens.
Despite the great number of school supplies stacked on these shelves each year, they don’t last very long—in my experience, at least. By mid-August, half of the shelves stood barren. I was impressed: That must be a lot of money, right?
At first, it doesn’t seem like a lot; however, $2.00 scissors and $3.00 packs of colored pencils add up quickly, especially if one decides to purchase everything new for the upcoming school year. Thus, to answer the question I asked earlier: Yes, that’s a lot of money.
According to research conducted by Capital One, a leading American bank holding company, “American families spent a total of $41.5 billion on K-12 back-to-school shopping in 2023.”
Yes, that number was in billions of dollars.
Initially, that number may not sound too bad. After all, there are a lot of children in the United States. Don’t worry, that number gets higher once you factor in back-to-college shopping. As explained by Capital One, “Americans spent a total of $135.5 billion for back-to-school and back-to-college shopping in 2023.” If you further break up the data, one child spent an average of $597 for back-to-school, and the average household spent more than $1,300 on back-to-college hauls.
To put the aforementioned numbers in perspective, in 2022, Starbucks’ net revenue was “only” 26.58 billion dollars, and Target’s 2022 net revenue came up to roughly 106 billion dollars. (Emphasis on the quotation marks around “only”; 26.58 billion dollars is by no means a little amount of money.) Both of these notorious companies made considerably less than what Americans spent on school necessities this year!
It’s worth noting that this incredible amount of money was not just for glue sticks and erasers. Those are the cheapest back-to-school shopping supplies. Most families included new clothes, electronics, and other essentials in their budgets for back-to-school shopping, which are certainly more costly than your typical school supplies. On new shoes alone, families spent an average of about $166.
It’s safe to say that parents and guardians aren’t the happiest spending hundreds of dollars annually, but what about the kids? Do they feel excited to use their new supplies?
One teenager discussed ignoring much of the school supply list this year. “I didn’t use most of it last year, so I don’t see the point in getting new stuff,” she remarked.
Another high schooler commented, “Imagine getting a new backpack every year. I still use mine from middle school. It’s doing its job.”
An elementary schooler was enthusiastic about his new school supplies. “I got a new supply case, and it locks and it has keys,” he told me. “The coolest part is that it makes noise when you scratch the front.”
I’m more with the elementary schooler on this one. In my opinion, fresh supplies symbolize a fresh start, and they “set the mood” for the rest of the year. Nothing feels like writing in a pristine notebook for the first time.
Regarding the attitude about returning to school in general, a teenager replied, “I’m really excited to go back to school. I’m looking forward to talking to my teachers and friends I haven’t been able to see this summer.”
On the flip side, a senior responded, “[I’m] happy that I have a year left. I’m looking forward to graduation, so I never have to come back.” I hate to admit it, but I kind of agree with him. While I like living in the small town of Thurmont, I’m anticipating experiencing life outside of its bounds.
Finally, a younger student described his worries for this academic year. “I don’t want to go to fourth grade,” he mentioned. After I asked him why, he answered, “Because it’s harder. Everything is harder [than third grade].”
Personally, I’ve had moments this year that led me to save a bit of money on materials for school. For instance, after showing my friend a picture of a $99.00 backpack I was debating on purchasing, he said, “I got mine for $20.00, and it lasted three years.” Hearing that, I decided to hold off on buying it—maybe I’ll invest that money toward a backpack for college instead.
Moreover, when shopping for my younger brother’s school supplies, I noticed how it called for exceptionally high numbers of things, such as six notebooks and four packs of loose-leaf paper. That’s a lot of paper, isn’t it? Most of the time, he returns home with notebooks that are mostly empty and other gadgets that were hardly touched. Don’t tell my parents, but I got him only five notebooks and three packs of paper.
With all of that being said, it’s definitely a privilege to be debating whether I want to buy a $100 backpack. Around this time, it’s great to see organizations such as churches and schools providing school supplies to students free of charge. As we’ve already observed, going down back-to-school supply lists is no inexpensive undertaking! Evidently, when humanity unites, beautiful things happen.
Well, this is my final year of K-12 school shopping, so I guess I better cherish it. Next year, I’ll have to shop for college. K-12 back-to-school shopping is enough of a headache, and I’m saying that with 12 years of experience! Scurrying through cluttered shelves and groups of shoppers for one specific item never gets easier.
I learned a lot researching this topic. Furniture, even for a dinky college dorm room, is expensive! A singular headboard can be upwards of $300, even $400! One thing’s for sure: I won’t be getting a headboard. When the time comes, I hope I won’t spend past the national average of $1,366.95 on back-to-college shopping, but I won’t make any promises yet.
Pomme Agaçante, Student Ghost Writer
Cows! Free stuff. Baby animals. Delicious treats. How are you not already at our local fairs and shows? You’ve probably seen the signs and advertisements trying to bring people into these wonderful happenings.
Now, lemme just talk about the best part of these events (at least for me growing up and now). It’s not the amazing foods. I’m talking about the businesses that generously offer freebies at their booths. If you muster up the social courage to go have a peek, you might be greeted by kind staff who simply want to spread their message. That’s great and all, but I’ll say it, I really enjoy the free merch!
I love fire safety and the little bag of pencils and coloring pages that go with it. I’ll stop, drop, and roll for that free stuff (PLEASE do so in the event of a fire!). Dairy is my favorite food group when I can score a free sample of chocolate milk from the dairy barn, as well as a little cow eraser and fancy pencil sharpener.
There are so many more free things out there (I’ve even scored a fidget spinner and cup from a certain auto decal place), but you’ll only find out the variety if you seek out the hidden treasures!
You bet I’ll be sporting the latest fashion of rubber bracelets, ranging in cow-pattern black-and-white to rainbow pride bracelets.
Next, I love THE PEOPLE! Crafters, farmers, bakers, and tailors of all different ages never cease to amaze me. The wares created by these talented people inspire me more than Pinterest ever could. I might not have the time to craft at home, but I’ll be hitting up the trailer with the awesome ladies for a fall decoration for home.
In the baked goods exhibits, the creative cakes certainly make me want to up my birthday cake game. And, all the pastries? They might just turn me into an inspired pastry chef, albeit with a fraction of the talent these exhibitors display. Shout out to you young exhibitors! I, and so many others, are simply wowed by your aptitude to bring amazing things into the world at a young age, ESPECIALLY the art. Breathtaking!
I must admit I’ve been getting into crocheting recently, and seeing the crocheted creations makes me want to bow down to the creators and beg them for lessons. The time it takes to make those items—as well as sewing and quilting done by others—makes me, an impatient youth, weep. I think it’s time for me to learn a lesson in patience for me to even try to measure up to the amazingness of crafters.
Animal therapy, anyone? As a mere student, I pine for any animal that is willing to receive love and affection. I love seeing the animals just vibe: nuzzling, trotting, standing, pooping, gnawing at my clothes…wait a minute! (Yes, I’m a goat lover. You caught me.) I never knew true joy until I saw the fluffy chicks courageously climb up and slide down the long slide into a tiny pool of water. I feel their pain, reaching for the good stuff (corn for them, achievements for me) and having to be exposed to harsh reality (cold water, deadlines), yet boldly climbing up the ladder for another try. You go, lil’ chicks.
So…rustle up your family and friends and head out to a local show or a fair! They’re full of entertainment, cute animals, crafters, artists, contests, entertainment, exhibits, and everything in between. I’ll see you there!
By James Rada, Jr.
September 1923, 100 Years Ago
Penna. Youth Killed In County Auto Crash
George Shell, the 18-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Shell, Williamsport, Pa., was killed in an automobile accident at Franklinville, Md., on the Frederick Road, about three miles south of Emmitsburg, at about 6 o’clock, Tuesday evening.
Young Shell was driving a machine, occupied by his father, mother, another woman, one other man and a child. The machine was traveling northward and as it was rounding a curve at the beginning of Franklinville, slipped from the road.
The automobile swung around, overturning. All of the occupants were thrown out and badly shaken up. All escaped serious injury, however, with the exception of Shell.
– Frederick Daily News, September 5, 1923
Artillery Camps Here Over Night
A battalion of field artillery of the United States Army, Capt. Percy G. Black, commander, passed through Frederick Sunday and camped for the night at the Fair Grounds. They left early today for Rockville, where they will pitch camp for the evening. They will return to Fort Myer, Va., a few miles south of Washington, tomorrow.
The battalion consisted of Batteries A, B and C, and the Headquarters Detachment and Headquarters Train of the Sixteenth Artillery. They are on the return from Tobyhanna, Pa., where they trained the Pennsylvania National Guardsmen.
They made the return trip by way of Gettysburg, Pa., and camped at Thurmont Saturday night.
– Frederick Daily News, September 24, 1923
September 1948, 75 Years Ago
Old Timers Lose To Town Team By 15-13
Thurmont athletes ranged from 1908 vintage to present day baseball ganged up to draw better than a $100 benefit gate, Labor Day, when the Town Team of Frederick County League bested the Old Timers, 15-13, by a ninth-inning thriller.
Proceeds of the holiday, “father and son” game, were donated to John Strine, injured earlier in the season playing with the Thurmont nine.
– Frederick News, September 6, 1948
Maryland CFA Has Annual Meeting Sunday In Thurmont
Approximately thirty members of the Dan Rice Top, Maryland division of the circus fans association, and their friends met in Thurmont Sunday, September 12th for the annual state meeting.
Meeting chairman George W. Wireman, president of the Lou Jacobs Tent No. 44 of Thurmont arranged a most interesting program which included master of ceremonies, Congressman J. Glenn Beall, Melvin D. Hildreth, past president of CFA and charter member from Washington, D.C., Dr. Wm. Mann, director of the National Zoological Park in Washington, and Mrs. Leah Lanyon, creator of the popular Emmett Kelly and Lou Jacobs clown dolls.
– Frederick News, September 15, 1948
September 1973, 50 Years Ago
Aerosol Cans Blamed For Fire
Discarded aerosol cans are believed to be the cause of a fire in the former Gingel Quarry which Emmitsburg and Fairfield firemen were unable to extinguish.
Fairfield Fire Chief Lawrence E. Eversole said the firemen reported twice last Wednesday to the quarry off Route 16, east of Zora, and now owned by W. B. Shank and used as a dump. After pumping thousands of gallons of water into it, firemen decided that nothing could be done but let the blaze burn itself out. The two fire companies finally extinguished the blaze Monday morning.
– Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 6, 1973
Town Receives Grant For Park
Acquisition of land south of West Main Street adjoining the corporate limits of Emmitsburg with a State grant of $80,520, is one of 3 park projects in Frederick County that have received funding from the State Program Open Space, as a result of action by the Board of Public Works, Governor Marvin Mandel has announced. The grant represents 100 per cent of the eligible project costs.
– Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 20, 1973
September 1998, 25 Years Ago
Mount Upbeat About New Community Club
A record freshman class, the return of students for the fall semester and the start of an exciting new cultural club with the Emmitsburg area community has produced a decidedly upbeat feeling on the campus.
On Thursday evening, Sept. 3, Mount Saint Mary’s College President George Houston is hosting a party at the President’s House on Old Emmitsburg Road to kickoff the formation of the Mount Community Social Club, designed to engage members of the community from Gettysburg to Frederick and all areas in between to take part in cultural and academic activities offered by the school.
– The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, September 1998
Dave Haller New Town Manager
David Haller resigned last month his newly elected position as a town commissioner to fill the town manager position vacated by Yvette Kreitz in June.
Mayor William Carr announced his selection for the job at the August 3 town meeting. Dr. Carr said about 40 applications for the position were reviewed. He felt the town was fortunate to get somebody with Haller’s qualification as well as having a town resident in the position. Mr. Haller has lived in Emmitsburg for the last 9 years.
– The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, September 1998
What to Write?
by Valerie Nusbaum
I intended for this month’s column to be about a social experiment I had recently conducted. The experiment was a simple premise. For ten days, I posted a positive or inspirational (sometimes humorous) thought/message on my Facebook page. People responded or hit “like,” and I had thought I might collect the data, do some math, and come up with some statistics and conclusions about how folks reacted to it. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a lot to work with. With one exception, everyone agreed with my posts.
One guy did take issue with Day #1’s comment, “Be happy. It drives other people crazy.” He proceeded to tell me that a smile can warm the heart of someone who is struggling. Yeah, whatever. I went to high school with this guy, and he always had to be right, which prompted my post for Day #2: “Being entitled to an opinion isn’t necessarily an invitation to share it.”
Anyway, my point is that sometimes the thing I plan to write about doesn’t pan out, and I’m forced to look for inspiration elsewhere.
This morning, I woke up determined to get something in print. But it was still early, and I didn’t want to disturb Randy. He’d fought a stomach bug all night long and needed to ease into the day today. He said he feels fine now, though, and he made us breakfast in bed. His chocolate chip waffles are the bomb!
After two cups of tea (I made hot chocolate with the little marshmallows for Randy.) and two episodes of The Great Food Truck Race, I decided it was time to tackle my column. I really wanted to get all my work done today because tomorrow is my birthday, and I’m entertaining the idea of staying in my pajamas all day and watching murder and mayhem on Lifetime. It bothers Randy when I watch Lifetime because he’s afraid it will give me ideas. I decided to strip the bed and put on clean sheets this morning, rather than do it tomorrow. Another job out of the way.
Day #3’s post was: “Life happens. The trick is how you deal with it.”
Dirty laundry in hand, I went downstairs to the kitchen to do some cleanup. Randy was nice enough to cook breakfast. The least I could do is clean up. I finished the dishes, cleaned all the counters, did some dusting, scrubbed the microwave, and noticed that the stovetop needed a good cleaning. That ceramic surface is always smeary. So, I got out the special cleaner and went to work until I could see myself, which reminded me that I needed to put in my prescription eyedrops. Since I was already downstairs, I figured I might as well go start a load of laundry. I saw some stuff that needed to go into the dryer on the fluff cycle, so I took care of that. I had started my day at around 5:30 a.m. and it was now nearly 10:00 a.m. Nothing written yet.
Back upstairs in my office, after having cleaned myself up at some point during the morning, I stared at my desk where a number of art prints were lying in wait for me to sign, number, and inventory. There was also a pile of Etsy orders that needed to be cleared. I put those things aside and sat down to collect my thoughts. This writing stuff isn’t easy. Really.
I looked back at my Facebook posts and focused on Day #4: “A positive attitude and a sense of humor are powerful weapons.”
Several of my women friends agreed with that one, and Randy lamented that he’d be much more effective if only people got his humor.
My computer is old and has been acting up, plus our internet is slow, so there were the usual frustrations. I’ve gotten up several times to do chores like put the clean sheets on the bed. Does anyone else have trouble getting the fitted bottom sheet on right the first time? Yes, I know there’s a tag and all that, but unless the sheet has stripes on it, I still have to struggle. I can fold the heck out of a fitted sheet, though. Martha Stewart would applaud me or be horribly jealous. And how many of you vacuum your mattress? Really? You know that there are dust mites in there, don’t you?
At 11:30 a.m., I have 724 words on paper. I’ll let you decide if they make any sense at all. Just remember that Day #5’s post was: “Pass out granola bars. Mean people don’t get enough fiber.”
On Day #6 I posted: “Celebrate every little thing….and use the good china.” Randy and I try to do just that.
Unfortunately, a lot of those celebrations are showing up on my hips. There’s a big, decorated birthday cake downstairs right now just calling my name, and Randy has gotten some lovely non-china paper plates and non-linen napkins to go with it. My advice isn’t always followed to the letter. And, yes, I know I should refer back to Day #2, but as I’ve told you before, Oprah left a big void, and I’m doing my best to fill it.
Day #7’s post advised that: “Getting old is a privilege. Not everyone gets to do it.” I’ll keep that in mind tomorrow as I celebrate.
by James Rada, Jr.
On June 20, 1923, a young Prince Georges County man had a visit to Thurmont that he didn’t enjoy.
W. E. Trego was a salesman for the Isaac A. Sheppard Co. in Baltimore, but he lived in Thurmont. While traveling from Roanoke, Virginia, to Washington, D.C., for work, he met Allan Immich, a 16-year-old from Takoma Park.
The two started talking, and when Allan heard Trego was from Thurmont, Allan told the older man of his recent visit to the town.
Allan had been heading home earlier in the day. He had gotten off a streetcar near his Montgomery County home and was walking home when two men in a car stopped and asked him if he knew where Mr. Thomas lived. Allan knew Mr. Thomas and got in the car to direct the men to the house.
It was a bad decision.
“After going a short distance, the men in the car gagged and bound Immich while the car was traveling at a lively pace,” the Frederick News reported.
Allan didn’t know where they were going, but he heard the name “Frederick City” mentioned. They then stopped in Thurmont in front of a meat shop.
“One man entered a nearby store to get something to eat while the other guarded the boy,” the newspaper reported.
They then drove from Thurmont, hours away to Roanoke. Before entering the city, they men stripped Allan of nearly all his clothing and left him alone on the side of the road in his underwear.
Someone passing him on the road reported him to the police, and they came out to see what was going on. He explained what had happened, and they took him to the police station where he called his father.
Besides the story of his unusual trip, Allan told the police he had also seen burglar tools, blackjacks, guns, and liquor in the car.
His father wired money for a train ticket back to Washington. Allan was returning home when he met Trego on the train.
Thurmont Police tried to assist the investigation by questioning citizens if anyone had seen anything. Some people remembered seeing the car in town, but no one could remember.
It’s not known whether the men were ever captured, but nothing more was noted of the incident in the newspapers.
East Main Street in Thurmont around the time of the kidnapping.
Photo Courtesy of Thurmontimages.com
by Ana Morlier
It’s time for the season of great family fun: Autumn! There are so many opportunities for great family-bonding time, whether it’s raking and playing in the leaves, making tasty sweets, or cozying up by the fire (or other heat source). However, the greatest fun of all lies in local farms and corn mazes! Endless outdoor activities, mazes, and fresh produce await anyone looking for more fall adventure—and the opportunity to pick a stellar pumpkin to kick off spooky October! However, finding the perfect pumpkin comes with its own tricky set of criteria for the healthiest or most visually appealing.
Tips & Tricks for Picking the Best Pumpkin
Ripe pumpkins come from vines that are slightly dried up. This also means the most vibrant color has been attained. If you cut a pumpkin from a green vine, it may be more dull or lose coloration. However, the pumpkin’s stem should not be dried up or mushy. A dark green coloration is suggested.
After choosing your pumpkin, cut from the vine, and not too close to the pumpkin.
Check for a hollow sound. You can do this by raising the pumpkin to your ear with one hand, and with the other, knock on any side of the pumpkin. The louder the hollow/echo sound present, the better the pumpkin is!
Hardened pumpkins are important for storage and longevity. You can test this by pressing your fingernails to the pumpkin’s flesh. If its skin or flesh cracks, it won’t last long and decay rather quickly. The skin should be somewhat leathery, but not give in when you push your nail in. Spongy or fleshy spots are not a good thing!
Checking for holes, bruises and soft spots is more important than you think, especially since these are easy entrances for bugs and fungal infections that can rot your pumpkin quickly! Please take extra care to check the bottom of the pumpkin, which is often missed and liked by bugs.
Dense pumpkins can be determined by their lack of or lesser hollow sound and relative heaviness compared to other pumpkins.
When walking around with your pumpkin, hold it by the base. Not only does it lower the risk of a very heavy object falling on your foot (ouch), but if the stem pops off (which it more than likely will if you are walking for a while and holding it by the stem), it leaves an open hole for bugs to get in or infections to occur.
When looking for cooking varieties of pumpkin, small pumpkins will be your best bet in texture, sweetness, and density. Dull-colored pumpkins are ok in this department (as the pumpkin flesh is still good). What isn’t ok are any dark bruises, wet spots (signs of frost), or holes.
Seeds are edible for all pumpkins! So, roast and enjoy.
If you don’t know what to look for in name for cooking pumpkins, some include: “Small sugar pumpkin, New England Pie Pumpkin, ‘Baby Pam’, ‘Autumn Gold’, and ‘Ghost Rider, Lumina, and crookneck squash/pumpkins’’ (Ianotti). Or, simply ask staff for their suggestions!
Handling Tips
Do not carve pumpkins that aren’t soft enough (aka, akin to carving wood). This is just a disaster waiting to happen with the uncontrolled misstep of any carving utensil. The exterior should protect the flesh inside but still be able to be carved with relative ease. For the easiest carving, lighter-colored pumpkins are your friend.
Balanced pumpkins are really important for your safety and presentation. To test that your pumpkin has even balance, rest your pumpkin down and closely examine your pumpkin if it tilts or falls in a way that can’t be corrected.
Carving size suggestions: Small pumpkins for traditional, easier patterns, medium pumpkins for stencils, and large pumpkins for intricate designs.
Preserving your pumpkin: The more open wounds on your pumpkin (aka from carving), the faster your pumpkin will rot. To prevent quick decay, place in any cool (not freezing), dry place until it’s showtime for your carving! When you display your work, place the pumpkin in a shady spot outside. Sunbeams can damage the color and cause it to rot faster.
You can also coat and then wash the pumpkin’s skin with a half cup of bleach to 4-4.5 cups of water (double if you run out).
While the list seems daunting, trust your instincts and other knowledge about the quality of produce to help you find the way to the perfect pumpkin. These are also mere suggestions. If cuts or abrasions go with the aesthetic you’re going for, pick that one! If you want a green pumpkin for a theme, that’s cool too! Shape, size, and color are all a matter of personal preference, ultimately. Handle these heavy plants with care (no broken appendages, please!) and carve carefully and AWAY from you (that goes to my younger, careless self). Now, get out there and pick some perfect pumpkins!
*Credit to Marie Iannotti of The Spruce, Viveka Neveln of Better Homes and Gardens, Farmers Almanac Staff and Maki Yazawa and Natalie Andelin of Well + Good.
by Buck Reed
Perfect Pie Crust
If the kitchen were a concert hall, then cooking and baking would be very different music. Cooking would be Rock and Roll, in that it is based on musical talent that has no real or consistent structure. There are rules but not really written in stone. But if we look at baking, we would compare it to opera. Opera is pure structure with standardized music and very structured voices for the various parts. Where you can get away with cheating a technique or substituting out an ingredient or two in cooking, you really cannot do the same with baking. Baking calls for specific ingredients that are measured out and combined in a very specific way. We call this technique, and this is the mantra of baking!
When making pie dough, we are looking at Pate Brise and Sucre, as well as 1-2-3 dough. As far as technique, they are exactly the same. All you are doing is combining your fat with the dry ingredients by cutting them together so that the fat looks like little pea shapes surrounded by dry ingredients. Then, you gently mix in the wet ingredients to make a dough with the dry ingredients that has streaks of fat in it. Do not overmix the dough. Form it into a ball, wrap it up, and let it stay in the refrigerator for about an hour.
When you roll it out, the dough will form layers of dough separated by fat. As it bakes, structure will form with the dough, but as the fat melts, it will become flakey in texture.
Ingredients are also an important factor in making pie dough:
Dry – All Purpose Flour is all I have ever used to make pie dough, and I have always had good results. Some recipes will call for sugar to be added.
Fat – Shortening or butter are usually called for, but lard is said to be the best choice.
Wet – Water would be the main ingredient, but some recipes might call for milk and some might call for eggs. Also, a half a splash of vinegar can be added to your liquid as it will help stop the formation of gluten, which will make your crust tough. Also, that’s probably how your grandma did it and you don’t want to argue with grandma! Another rule is to make sure your wet ingredients are as cold as possible when you mix them with the dry/fat ingredients.
If you follow these easy steps and use the proper ingredients, you will find success in your baked products. And once you master this technique, you can make not only any pie dough, but biscuits and cobblers as well.
by Maxine Troxell
Peach Cobbler
Peach season is here. My mom always made good use of fruits while they were in season. She had a habit of writing down a lot of her recipes in a black and white composition book. While going through my late sister’s estate, we came across one of these books. This is her Peach Cobbler recipe that we found in one of them. I hope you enjoy it.
Ingredients
3 cups sliced fresh peaches
1 cup sugar
¼ teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1½ cups All-purpose flour
1 well-beaten egg
½ teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons baking powder
½ cup shortening
½ cup milk
3 tablespoons sugar, divided
Directions
Arrange peaches in a greased 8-inch baking dish or pan.
Sprinkle with 1 cup sugar, almond extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Heat in 350-degree oven while preparing topping.
Sift together flour, salt, baking powder, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Cut in shortening until mixture is like coarse crumbs. Add shortening and milk. Stir just until flour mixture is moistened.
Spread dough over hot peach mixture. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons sugar.
Bake in 400-degree oven for 35 to 40 minutes.
Bernard L. Talley Jr. was born on February 23, 1939, in Baltimore to parents Emma Louise Sheely and Bernard Leo Talley, Sr., and was the youngest of his parents’ three children.
Talley was a graduate of Loyola High School, Towson, and was graduated in the Mount Saint Mary’s University Class of 1962 with a bachelor’s degree in economics before entering U.S. Air Force Officer Training School on June 27, 1962.
Talley was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, according to Veterantributes.org, on September 25, 1962, and served as a supply officer at McCoy Air Force Base, Florida, until entering Undergraduate Pilot Training in April 1964.
Veterantributes.org also reported that he was awarded his pilot wings at Laredo Air Force Base, Texas, in May 1965, and then flew F-4 Phantom II fighters with the 25th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. In April 1966, at the age of 26, Talley volunteered to serve in Vietnam as an F-4C Phantom II pilot.
Talley flew 76 combat missions with the 433rd Tactical Fighter Squadron out of the Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand, before being forced to eject over North Vietnam on September 10, 1966, according to Veterantributes.org. The Dallas Morning News reported, in his 2022 obituary, that his plane was struck by a missile, and further noted that Talley’s Flight Commander, Douglas “Pete” Peterson, who was also in the plane, was also forced to eject.
Pownetwork.org reported that Tally’s target for the mission in which his plane was shot down was a bridge and ferry complex near Hanoi, and, as they were departing the strike zone, the Phantom was hit by a surface-to-air missile (SAM). “Fortunately,” according to Pownetwork.org, “It was not a direct hit, thus neither the pilot nor Talley were injured by the missile’s blast. The aircraft, however, was severely damaged. Both engines were rendered inoperative, and the entire aft portion of the aircraft was on fire.”
Apparently, Talley and Peterson knew they could not make it to a safe area where they stood a chance of being rescued and decided to eject.
The Dallas Morning News reported that Talley had managed to evade capture for one day before being taken prisoner on September 11, further noting that he was the 125th American airman captured.
Talley subsequently spent the next six-and-a-half years in captivity. The Dallas Morning News stated, “Talley’s parents would not know he was KIA (Killed Action)/MIA (Missing in Action) or a Prisoner of War for three years and one day.” He was released along with Douglas “Pete” Peterson during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973. Talley subsequently retired from the Air Force as a Colonel.
For bravery demonstrated in Vietnam during a bombing raid in Vietnam on September 3, 1966, seven days before his plane was shot down, Talley was awarded the Silver Star. The citation is quoted here in full (militarytimes.com):
The President of the United States of America… takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Bernard Leo Talley, Jr., United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a Pilot of the 433d Tactical Fighter Squadron, Ubon Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action over North Vietnam on 3 September 1966. On that date, Lieutenant Talley conducted a night strike on a vital supply and storage area of the hostile force in a highly defended area. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Talley continued the attack in the face of intense defenses to deliver ordnance on the target, completely destroying it. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Talley has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
by Dr. Thomas K. Lo, Advanced Chiropractic & Nutritional Healing Center
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient found in many foods. In the body, it acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are compounds formed when our bodies convert the food we eat into energy. Free radicals are also in the environment from cigarette smoke, air pollution, and ultraviolet light from the sun.
The body also needs vitamin E to boost its immune system so that it can fight off invading bacteria and viruses. It helps to widen blood vessels and keep blood from clotting within them.
Some Signs of Vitamin E Deficiency
Vitamin E deficiency is very rare in healthy people. It is often linked to certain diseases in which fat is not properly digested or absorbed. Examples include Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, and certain rare genetic diseases and ataxia. Vitamin E needs some fat for the digestive system to absorb it.
Vitamin E deficiency can cause nerve and muscle damage that results in loss of feeling in the arms and legs, loss of body movement control, muscle weakness, and vision problems. Another sign of deficiency is a weakened immune system.
Can Vitamin E Be harmful?
Vitamin E that is naturally present in food and beverages is not harmful and does not need to be limited.
In supplement form, however, high doses of vitamin E might increase the risk of bleeding (by reducing the blood’s ability to form clots after a cut or injury) and of serious bleeding in the brain (known as hemorrhagic stroke). Because of this risk, the upper limit for adults is 1,000 mg/day for supplements of either natural or synthetic vitamin E. This is equal to 1,500 IU/day for natural vitamin E supplements and 1,100 IU/day for synthetic vitamin E supplements. The upper limits for children are lower.
Some research suggests that taking vitamin E supplements even below these upper limits might cause harm. In one study, for example, men who took 400 IU (180 mg) of synthetic vitamin E each day for several years had an increased risk of prostate cancer.
Vitamin E Can Interact With Medication
Vitamin E dietary supplements can interact or interfere with certain medicines that you take. So, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking vitamin E supplements.
Vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding in people taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicines, such as warfarin (Coumadin®).
In one study, vitamin E, plus other antioxidants, reduced the heart-protective effects of two drugs taken in combination (a statin and niacin) to affect blood-cholesterol levels.
What Foods Contain Vitamin E?
People should get most of their nutrients from food and beverages, according to the federal government’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Foods contain vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and other components that benefit health. In some cases, fortified foods and dietary supplements are useful when it is not possible to meet the needs for one or more nutrients (for example, during specific life stages such as pregnancy).
You can get vitamin E by eating a variety of foods including the following:
Wheat Germ Oil
One tablespoon of wheat germ oil contains roughly 20.2 milligrams (101% DV) of vitamin E. It also contains a host of antioxidants, which help wheat germ oil promote regularity, stabilize blood sugar, support heart health, manage weight, and support immunity.
Sunflower Seeds
A quarter cup of sunflower seeds provides about 11.6 milligrams (58% DV) of this micronutrient. These seeds are also high in B vitamins, manganese, and other minerals. As such, they can help lower the risk of heart disease, combat cancer, support the thyroid, protect bones and muscles, balance blood sugar, and promote skin health.
Almonds
One ounce of almonds holds approximately 7.3 milligrams (37% DV) of vitamin E. Almonds nutrition also supplies healthy fats, protein, and several other vitamins and minerals. Almonds are good for the heart, brain, skin, blood sugar, weight management, nutrient absorption, digestion, immune health, teeth, and bones.
Hazelnuts
Supplying approximately 4.2 milligrams (21% DV) per ounce, hazelnuts have been shown to help promote heart health, manage diabetes, boost brain health, combat obesity and disease, and contribute to healthy nails and skin. Hazelnut nutrition is especially high in manganese, copper, magnesium, and B vitamins as well.
Spinach
A cup of cooked spinach provides about 3.7 milligrams (19% DV) of this vitamin. Known for its high vitamin K content as well, spinach nutrition is an immune-boosting powerhouse that can defend against chronic disease, while supporting eye, bone, skin, and brain health.
Avocado
With 3.1 milligrams (16% DV) in a cup, avocado benefits come from its tremendous nutrition profile, including its high vitamin E content. This superfood provides a healthy dose of good fats and just about every important micronutrient. That is why avocado is good for the heart, gut, skin, eyes, hair, brain, and immune system.
Turnip Greens
Turnip greens nutrition provides 2.7 milligrams (14% DV) of vitamin E in one cooked cup, as well as plenty of vitamins C, A, and K, along with other micronutrients. These greens benefit the heart, bones, eyes, and more.
Butternut Squash
There are about 2.6 milligrams (13% DV) of vitamin E in one cup of cooked butternut squash. Also high in antioxidants, butternut squash is good for combating inflammation, certain cancers, bone maladies, and symptoms of PMS. It also can help with weight loss, physical performance, and boosting energy.
Pine Nuts
Pine nut nutrition supplies roughly 2.6 milligrams (13% DV) of vitamin E in a one-ounce serving. Along with its other vitamins and minerals, pine nuts can help lower bad cholesterol, maintain healthy weight, reduce blood pressure, support bone health, improve eye health, and stabilize mood.
Peanuts
So long as you are not allergic to peanuts, they can support metabolism and even aid in fat loss when consumed with omega-3 foods. One ounce also contains 1.9 milligrams (10% DV) of vitamin E.
Olive Oil
One tablespoon of olive oil contains approximately 1.9 milligrams (10% DV) of this micronutrient. One of the healthiest oils around, olive oil benefits extend to the whole body, proving beneficial to the heart, waistline, brain, and immune system. In fact, olive oil may help combat cancer, slow aging naturally, and lower risk of diabetes.
Sweet Potato
A cup of cooked sweet potatoes contains 1.4 milligrams (7% DV) of this vitamin. One of the healthiest potatoes available, a sweet potato is high in antioxidants, providing an immune boost, along with being a healthy carb option.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes provide about 1.3 milligrams (7% DV) of vitamin E in one cooked cup. Also high in vitamins A, C, and K, tomatoes are versatile and support the immune system, along with eye health and so much more.
If you are struggling with health issues, call the Advanced Chiropractic & Nutritional Healing Center at 240-651-1650 for a free consultation. Dr. Lo uses Nutritional Response Testing® to analyze the body to determine the underlying causes of ill or non-optimum health. The office is located at 7310 Grove Road #107, Frederick, MD.
Check out the website at www.doctorlo.com.
*Source: Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), draxe.com.
classified and display ads
To place a classified ad, submit and pay online at www.TheCatoctinBanner.com under the ‘Classifieds’ tab. A classified ad costs $20 and includes up to 200 characters in the For Sale, For Rent, Help Wanted, Yard Sales, and Wanted categories. Classifieds under the Services category require a paid display ad. When purchasing a paid display ad, you may place a classified ad for free in the months you advertise. Also, continuous advertisers who have regular customer walk-in hours at their brick-n-mortar business location get an additional ad in the Town section. This is to encourage the quick reference reader to visit your business.
Barbie Dolls! (one – My Size Barbie), numerous dolls (all kinds, Xmas, etc.), (boxed and unboxed), and Barbie toys. Call 301-606-7873.
Seasoned mixed hard woods for sale. Call 301-271-4812. Leave message.
CHS Class of 1973 50th Reunion #2, September 15 at Thurmont Community Park (big pavilion). Bring your own lunch & drinks (no alcohol). Questions: Deb Fornwald at 301-271-2981.
The Annual John David and Anna Bell Keilholtz Family Reunion will be held on Sunday, September 3, 2023, at 12:30 p.m. at the Thurmont Community Park. A pot luck “Buffet” and fried chicken lunch will be served. Please bring a covered dish and dessert if desired; also beverage, place setting, and a $2.00 wrapped gift for the bingo game.
HALL RENTAL: Weddings, Banquets, Events of any kind. Call the Thurmont American Legion at 301-271-4411 between 9 and 11 a.m.
Looking for a place for a meeting, reunion, reception, picnic, or party? St. John’s Church in Sabillasville rents its pavilion or parish hall. Contact Megan Doolittle at 301-514-3115 or [email protected].
Fort Ritchie Community Center in Cascade, MD is available for various rentals. Stop by, call 301-241-5085, or visit www.TheFRCC.org for information.
Looking for a storage solution? Storage units available for rent in Emmitsburg. Call Dan 301-788-2626.
Help Wanted State Farm Agency in Gettysburg looking for a Full Time Licensed Insurance Rep. Service and Sales. $36K-$52K depending on experience. Salary plus bonus/commission structure. Send resumes to [email protected].
D&J Auto Enterprises, located at 12440A Creagerstown Road in Thurmont, is hiring for a skilled auto body tech and mechanic. Stop in and apply. www.newbillsautobody.com.
McDonald’s is Hiring! Minimum starting salary $13/hr. and above for Crew, $14.25/hr. (Thurmont & Walkersville) for Maintenance. Apply in person at your local McDonald’s or text 38000 and enter location code. Also hiring Managers!
Ott House, 5 W. Main Street, Emmitsburg. Hiring cooks, servers, and crew. 301-447-2625.
Help Wanted for established Local Home Improvement company. Call 301-271-4850 for interview.
Giant Yard Sale, October 12-14, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Harriet Chapel, 12625 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont.
Antiques & Collectibles like crocks, jugs, postcards, photographs, advertising items, old signs, old dolls, toys & trains (pre-1965), quilts, political items, guns, old holiday decorations, hunting & fishing items, jewelry, and coins; gold, sterling, coin collections, etc. Will buy one item or collection. 301-514-2631.
Data Entry Services – Reasonable rates. Contact Maxine at 301-271-7169.
Need blinds, shades, shutters or other window treatments? Call Melanie Young with 3 Day Blinds at 240-517-6095 or email [email protected].
Lawn Services – Fertilizer programs, mowing, landscaping, mulching, and more. Call Mountain View Lawn Service at 301-271-2832.
Thurmont Backhoe Services. Friendly. Dependable. Affordable. Call 240-288-7048 or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to serving you!
Septic tank pumping, Reliable Service and Reasonable Rates. Serving Frederick County and surrounding areas. Staley’s Onsite Services 301-788-3636 or email [email protected].
Asphalt paving and seal coating by Frederick County Paving. Call for a free estimate, 301-662-2820 or email [email protected].
Visit Quality Tire in Emmitsburg for super tire service at 17650 Creamery Road in Emmitsburg. Call 301-447-2909.
Accounting services and tax management and filing with Melissa Wetzel in Emmitsburg. Schedule your appointment today at 301-447-3797.
CC Transport provides hauling, tree and brush removal, mulch delivery, stone delivery, building material delivery, trash removal and much more! Rent a 7-yard dump trailer for one week for $400. Rental includes drop and pick up. You fill it! No paint or hazardous materials. For a free estimate, text or call 301-748-7934.
Firewood, snow removal, welding and fabrication, lawn and landscaping. Call Ward Business Group 301-607-1099.
Maryland Potomac Edison residential or commercial customers are eligible for a Maryland Quick Home Energy Check (QHEC) performed by Perry Joy, a BPI-Certified Home Energy Professional. It is FREE and you receive $150 worth of energy-saving products. Eligible customers sign up online at www.energyauditinfo.com or call Perry Joy at 443-974-7966 for info.
Affordable Lawn Care and Handyman Service gives free estimates and there’s no job too small. Call 240-651-4248 for mowing, trimming, edging, mulching, home repairs, and maintenance.
Small Business Website Hosting & Coaching. Richie123.com or 307-224-6147.
High tensile, board & post fence repair and replacement. Property maintenance, exterior painting, house clean outs, junk removal, hauling, and weeding. Also bush hogging and skid loader service. Call Mike at 240-285-6648.
Rick Hurley & Son Small Engine Repair Service. Call 301-271-2117 or 240-285-2494 (leave message).
Event Advertisements
You may advertise an event in our calendar for free by submitting an entry under the ‘Calendar’ tab at www.TheCatoctinBanner.com. For a more detailed listing (details, contact information, ticket information, and web address), please sign up for a paid display ad under the Calendar tab and reference the Advertisement Rates tab for costs and contract. Paid display ads come with a detailed calendar listing and a write-up in the Around Town section that references your ad page. Calendar listings will be listed only in the calendar month in which they take place.
1…… Bingo (every Friday night), Thurmont Event Complex, 13716 Strafford Dr., Thurmont. Doors open 5 p.m.; Bingo 6:45 p.m. Tip jars; food; jackpot up to $1,000. Benefits Thurmont Community Amb. Srv. www.thurmonteventcomplex.com.
1…… Tom’s Creek “MULCH” FUNDRAISER SALE: $5/3-cubic-ft. bag Hardwood Mulch or $4/20 bags or more Hardwood Mulch. Orders can be picked up at the Baughman Farm, 12120 Harney Rd., Taneytown. Contact Curtis Baughman 443-336-5269 to order mulch or with any questions. Mulch can be delivered for a goodwill donation.
1…… Zumba, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 10:15 a.m. Also: 8, 15, 22, 29.
1,2… Grandma O’s Collectibles Sale, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 15 N. Church St., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-noon.
2…… The Frederick Co. Health Department Hosts Family-Friendly Event In Observance of National Recovery Month, Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Rd., Frederick. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
2…… Community Shred Event, Sponsored by Lewistown Ruritan & Lewistown Vol. Fire Dept., 11099 Hessong Bridge Rd., Lewistown. 8 a.m.-noon. 3-5 box limit. Free-will offering.
3…… Grandma O’s Collectibles Sale, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 15 N. Church St., Thurmont. 12-4 p.m.
3…… Long Reunion, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 8619B Black’s Mill Rd., Creagerstown. 11:30 a.m.
4…… Served With Grace Free Dinner, Graceham Moravian Church, 8231-A Rocky Ridge Rd., Thurmont. 5:30-7 p.m. 301-271-2379.
4…… Annual Labor Day Festival, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Parish Hall, Church St., Thurmont. Noon-5 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Family-style dinner, raffle, 50/50 drawing & music by Home Comfort Bluegrass Band. $15/adult; $6.50/ages 6-12; Free/ages 5 & under. Take-outs available. Ample parking.
4…… Yoga, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 9:30 a.m. Also: 11, 18, 25.
4…… Balance & Strength, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont.
5…… Beginner Baton Twirling Course, Emmitsburg Elementary School Gymnasium, Emmitsburg. 6:30 p.m. Ages 5 & up. Free.
5…… Coffee & Chat, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 10 a.m. Also: 12, 19, 26.
6…… 50/50 Bingo, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 1 p.m. Also: 20.
7…… Dominoes, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 12:30 p.m. Also : 14, 21, 28.
7…… 3-D Archery Shoots (Thursdays), Indian Lookout Conservation Club, 17107 Riffle Rd., Emmitsburg. 5 p.m.
8…… Legacy Livestock Auction LLC: Livestock Sale, 137 Emmitsburg Rd., Thurmont. 6 p.m. 240-440-4841.
8-10. 67th Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Rd., Thurmont. Free admission/free parking. Food vendors, community org. & business displays, free entry of exhibits in large gym, Baked Goods Auction (Sept. 8 at 7:30 p.m.), Pet Show, plus petting zoo, pony rides, contests, entertainment & much more. www.thurmontemmitsburgcommuniyshow.webs.com.
9…… Bingo, Rocky Ridge Vol. Fire Co., 13516 Motters Station Rd., Rocky Ridge. Doors open 5 p.m.; games 7 p.m. Food available for purchase.
9…… Thurmont Main Street Plein Air – Paint the Town, 11 Water St., Thurmont. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Subject for this year’s event: Buildings of Thurmont Main Street. www.thurmontmainstreet.com.
9…… Bingo Banquet, Union Bridge Fire Hall, 8 W. Locust St., Union Bridge. 3:30 p.m.
9…… 23rd Annual Mission of Mercy Healing Through Love Gala, Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick. 5:30 p.m.
9…… Old Fashioned Bingo, St. Anthony’s Shrine, Upper Hall, 16150 St. Anthony Rd., Emmitsburg. Doors open 5 p.m.; games 6:30 p.m. Tip jars, 50/50 & raffles. Benefits Cemetery Fund. www.sasolmc.org.
10…. Classic Car & Truck Show, Community Park, 21 Frederick Rd., Thurmont. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $15/vehicle (register 9 a.m.-noon). Voting closes 1 p.m.; awards 2:30 p.m. Food by Open Grille & Antietam Dairy Ice Cream. Chinese auction, raffle & oldies music noon-2:30 p.m. No rain date for this event.
10…. Shotgun Shoots, Indian Lookout Conservation Club, 17107 Riffle Rd., Emmitsburg. Registration at noon; shoots 1 p.m.
10…. Round-Up Sunday, Tom’s Creek UMC, 10926 Simmons Rd., Emmitsburg. 9 a.m. Wear your western attire (cowboy hats, boots, bandanas, chaps, etc.) and bring a friend for fellowship and fun. www.tomscreekumc.com or 301-447-3171.
10…. Dinner and a Movie, St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 13025 Greensburg Rd., Smithsburg. 6 p.m. Discover American history w/a rap musical about the founding of our country. Free admission. 240-405-2173.
10-24…… Artist in Residence at Cunningham Falls State Park (Cindy Stockton Moore,) Cunningham Falls State Park, 14274 William Houck Dr., Thurmont.
11…. Thurmont Lions Club: 9-11 Memorial Service, Memorial Park, Thurmont. 6:30 p.m.
11…. Libertytown Food Truck Event, Libertytown Carnival Grounds, 12027 South St., Libertytown. 5 p.m.
12…. Knitting & Crocheting Group, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont.10 a.m.
14…. Bunko, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 1 p.m.
14…. Roy Roger’s Fundraiser for Thurmont Senior Center, Roy Rogers Restaurant, Thurmont. 5-8 p.m.
15…. Catoctin High School Class of 1973 50th Reunion #2, Thurmont Community Park, Big Pavilion, Thurmont. Noon-4 p.m. Bring own lunch & drinks (no alcohol). Deb Fornwald 301-271-2981.
16…. Chicken BBQ, Emmitsburg Lions at 17701 Creamery Rd., Emmitsburg. $12/half chicken w/potato salad, applesauce & chips. 11 a.m. (until sold out). Delivery: Lion Dianne 301-676-1561.
16…. Car Show, Thurmont Event Complex, 13716 Strafford Dr., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. $15/registration fee (includes one BBQ chicken dinner meal; additional meal tickets $11). Dash plaques to first 100 registered. Trophies 1 p.m. Music/DJ by Joe Brown, door prizes, games & more. Vendors wanted: 240-674-1235 or 301-667-1545. Mail all pre-registration forms to: 9 Brown Ave., Thurmont, MD 21788. Proceeds benefit Thurmont Comm. Amb. Co.
16…. Bass Fishing Tournament, Fort Ritchie Community Center, 14421 Lake Royer Dr., Cascade. 7-11:30 a.m. $25/adult; $10/youth. Cash prizes for adults, door prizes & raffles. Sponsored by Cobblestone Hotel & Suites. www.thefrcc.org.
16…. Drawing w/Nature Workshop, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont.
17…. Chicken Pot Pie Quart Sale, Union Bridge Fire Hall, 8 W. Locust St., Union Bridge. 1 p.m.
17…. MWA Music in the Park, Taneytown Memorial Park, Corner of Park Road & MD 140, Taneytown. 4-6 p.m. Open outdoor seating, bring chairs/blankets. Refreshments available. Donation Only event. Call/text Rick Bibbee 301-991-7799. Benefits Maryland Horse Rescue.
19…. Community Clothes Closet, Thurmont UMC, 13880 Long Rd., Thurmont. 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Free.
19…. “Secrets of Site R,” Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. Local author James Rada, Jr. 7 p.m.
20…. Bingo, AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Post 7, 26 Apples Church Rd., Thurmont. 5 p.m.
20…. Library Day, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 10 a.m.
21…. Seated Massage by Marie, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
21…. Monthly Birthday Party, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 12:30 p.m.
22…. 5th Annual Gateway to the Cure Golf Classic, Maple Run Golf Course, Thurmont. Register online or download mail-in application: www.thurmontmainstreet.com. Proceeds benefit The Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund.
23…. Festival, Mt. Tabor Church Park (home of the big slide), 13616 Motters Station Rd., Rocky Ridge. 3-7 p.m. Music by Honky Tonk Twins 4-7 p.m., home-cooked food (cash only) & Christian Fellowship. All ages.
23…. Thurmont Lions Club’s Sandwich Sales, Bell Hill Farm, Rt. 15, Thurmont. 9 a.m.-sold out. Pit beef, pork, ham & turkey sandwiches.
23…. Indoor Yard/Bake Sale, Germantown Church of God, 16924 Raven Rock Rd., Highfield/Cascade. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
23…. Invasive Ink Program by Cunningham Falls Artist in Residence Cindy Stockton Moore, Concessions Building at South Beach in Cunningham Falls State Park, 14274 William Houck Dr., Thurmont.
23,24…… 42nd Annual Pippinfest Craft Show, Historic Fairfield, PA. Food, crafts & entertainment. www.pippinfest.com or 717-642-5640.
24…. Shotgun Shoots, Indian Lookout Conservation Club, 17107 Riffle Rd., Emmitsburg. Registration at noon; shoots 1 p.m.
24…. Frederick Co. Health Department Rabies Vaccination Clinic, Thurmont Community Park, Thurmont. 12:30-3:30 p.m.
25…. Community Clothes Closet, Thurmont UMC, 13880 Long Rd., Thurmont. 6-7:30 p.m. Free.
26…. Town of Emmitsburg Election Day, Old Town Office, 22 E. Main St., Emmitsburg. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Mayor’s seat and one commissioner seat are up for election.
26…. Nominating Convention, Thurmont Municipal Office, 615 E. Main St., Thurmont. 7 p.m.
27…. Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater Guest Speaker at Thurmont Lions Club Meeting, St. John Lutheran Church, 15 N. Church St., Thurmont. 6:30 p.m.
28…. Thurmont Grange Night & Bake Sale, Roy Rogers Restaurant, Thurmont. 4:30-8 p.m.
28…. Farkle, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 1 p.m.
29…. A Labyrinth Observing St. Michael and All Angels, Mt. Moriah Evangelical Lutheran Church, 15116 Foxville Church Rd., Sabillasville. 6:30 p.m. 240-405-2173.
30…. Legacy Livestock Auction LLC: Horse Sale, 137 Emmitsburg Rd., Thurmont. Noon for Tack; 3 p.m. for Horses. 240-440-4841.
30…. Hot Rods & Hoses Cruise-In, Thurmont Carnival Grounds, 123 E. Main St., Thurmont. 4-8 p.m. Elvis Tribute 5-7 p.m. Tip jars, raffles & food. Free to public & spectators. $5 to “cruise in” (optional) to be eligible for money drawing at end of event. Presented by Guardian Hose Co.
30 Catoctin Pregnancy Center Father Darin Didier Memorial Run, Mount St. Mary’s University, Emmitsburg. Onsite registration 7 a.m. One Mile Fun Run/Walk 9 a.m. 5K Run/Walk 9:30 a.m. Refreshments before race; fruit and drinks after race. $35/runner or $70/family. Online registration: www.catoctinpregcenter.org/online-individual-sign-up.html.
Money & Coach Bag Bingo
Save the date for the Money & Coach Bag Bingo on Sunday, October 22, at the Thurmont Event Complex! Doors open at 11:00 a.m., with games beginning at 1:00 p.m. The cost is $25.00 per tickets. Bingo includes 14 games of Coach bags, 12 games of $100, half-time game of $500, and a final game of $1,000. Cash bar and food available. Proceeds benefit the Thurmont Community Ambulance Company. View the advertisement on page 32 for more information on how to get your tickets today!
Father Darin Didier Memorial Run
Register yourself or your whole family for the Catoctin Pregnancy Center Father Darin Didier Memorial Run on September 30 at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg. Onsite registration begins at 7:00 a.m.; online registration is at www.catoctinpregcenter.org/online-individual-sign-up.html. Coffee will be available before the race, and fruit and drinks after the race. View the advertisement on page 11 for more information.
Thurmont Lions Club’s 2023 Sandwich Sales
The Thurmont Lions Club is holding its popular sandwich sale at Bell Hill Farm on Rt. 15 in Thurmont on Saturday, September 23, from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (or until sold out). And they just added another date: October 21! The popular sale features pit beef, pork, ham, and turkey sandwiches. Proceeds benefit local youth programs. View the advertisement on page 12 for more information.
Emmitsburg Farmers Market
Emmitsburg Farmers Market has expanded! Come out each week to 302 South Seton Avenue in Emmitsburg and enjoy local produce, local meats, fresh baked goods, family activities, crafts, and more, plus food trucks every week! View the advertisement on page 59.
Thurmont Community Ambulance ATV Raffle
The Thurmont Community Ambulance Company is holding a 2023 CR Moto C-Force 500 4×4 ATV Raffle. Tickets are $10.00 each. Drawing will take place when all tickets are sold. The winner will be notified and posted on Facebook. Get your tickets at Friday Night Bingo at Thurmont Event Complex, on eventbright.com, or from members of the ambulance company. View the advertisement on page 20 for more information.
Served With Grace Free Dinner
Everyone is welcome at Graceham Moravian Church’s Served With Grace Free Dinner on Monday, September 4, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. View the advertisement on page 40.
Auctions Are Back
Legacy Livestock Auction LLC is holding a Livestock Sale on September 8 at 6:00 p.m., and a Horse Sale on September 30, starting at noon for Tack and 3:00 p.m. for horses, at 137 Emmitsburg Road in Thurmont. View the advertisement on page 31.
Emmitsburg Lions Chicken BBQ & Delivery Too!
The Emmitsburg Lions Club will host a Chicken BBQ with on-site pickup or delivery on Saturday, September 16. Order a half chicken with potato salad, applesauce, and chips for only $12.00! Pick up at the Vigilant Hose Activities Building at 17701 Creamery Road or call Lion Dianne at 301-676-1561 for delivery. View the advertisement on page 26 for more information.
Town of Thurmont Election Notice
Notice is given of the upcoming Town of Thurmont election for two commissioner seats: September 26—Nominating Convention, 7:00 p.m., Thurmont Municipal Office on E. Main Street; October 3—Last day to register to vote; October 18—Absentee ballots available; October 24—Last day to make application for Absentee Ballot; October 31—General Election held at Guardian Hose Activities Building on E. Main Street in Thurmont, from 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. View the advertisement on page 27 for more information.
67th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show’s Baked Goods Auction
All ages are encouraged to enter baked goods at this year’s Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, and eligible exhibitors are residents in the Catoctin area feeder school district. Exhibitors have the chance to enter and possibly receive one of the many awards and ribbons that are offered to exhibitors. The Baked Goods Auction is Friday, September 8, in the auditorium, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The grand champion and reserve champion cake, pie, and bread and junior and youth department champions will be sold at 8:00 p.m. Two buffets will be served by Mountain Gate Family Restaurant on Saturday, September 9, from 3:00-6:30 p.m., as well as Sunday, September 10, from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. You won’t want to miss the live entertainment on Saturday, September 9, at 6:30 p.m., and Sunday, September 10 at 12:30 p.m. and 1:45 p.m., plus so much more! There’s something for everyone at the Community Show! Parking, admission, and entertainment are free. View the advertisement on page 15 for more information.
50th Annual Catoctin Gas & Steam Engine Show
Bring the whole family out to Wolfsville Ruritan Community Park in Myersville on October 7-8, from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., for the 50th Annual Catoctin Gas & Steam Show. This free event features gas & steam engines, tractors, antique tractors, cars, trucks, sawmill demo, homemade food, flea market, vendors, kids’ playground, and more! View the advertisement on page 21 for more information.
42nd Annual Pippinfest Craft Show
Mark your calendar for this year’s 42nd Annual Pippinfest Craft Show on September 23-24 in historic Fairfield, Pennsylvania, featuring two days of fun, food, crafts, and entertainment! To sign up as a vendor, call 717-642-5640 or visit www.pippinfest.com. View the advertisement on page 13 for more information.
47th Sabillasville Mountain Festival
Mark your calendar for this year’s 47th Annual Sabillasville Mountain Festival on Saturday, October 14, from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., and Sunday, October 15, from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., at the Sabillasville Environmental School on Sabillasville Road. Admission is free! Enjoy local vendors, demonstrations, food trucks, music, fun for kids, a Car Show, an Antique Tractor Show, and much more! Vendors and sponsors wanted! View the advertisement on page 7 for more information.
Fort Ritchie Clay Shoot
On Friday, October 13, from 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., the Fort Ritchie Community Center is holding a Clay Shoot at Orvis Hill Country Shooting Grounds (519 Gladhill Road, Fairfield, PA 17320). Registration includes: 100 targets, 15 shooting stations, eye and ear protection, catered lunch, awards presentations, and complimentary gift. View the advertisement on page 31 to find out how to register.
Holiday Craft & Vendor Event
Mark your calendar for Vigilant Hose Company’s Holiday Craft & Vendor Event on Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., and Sunday, December 3, from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Vigilant Hose Activities Building on Creamery Road in Emmitsburg. Food available for purchase and get your picture with Santa! Crafters and vendors wanted! View the advertisement on page 20 for more information.
5th Annual Gateway to the Cure
Calling all golfers to the 5th Annual Gateway to the Cure Golf Classic on Friday, September 22, at the Maple Run Golf Course in Thurmont. Proceeds are donated to The Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund. Register online or download mail-in application at thurmontmainstreet.com. View the advertisement on page 13 for more information.
Car Show at Thurmont Event Complex
Mark your calendar for a Car Show on Saturday, September 16, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Thurmont Event Complex on Strafford Drive in Thurmont. Event features door prizes, games, BBQ chicken dinner, music, and more! Vendors wanted! Registration fee is $15.00 (includes one meal; additional meal tickets are $11.00). Proceeds benefit the Thurmont Community Ambulance Company. View the advertisement on page 33 for more information.
Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company Bingo
Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company’s Bingo is Saturday, September 9. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., with games starting at 7:00 p.m. Make sure you come hungry! Delicious food is available for purchase. View the advertisement on page 42 for more information.
Bingo — Every Friday Night
The Thurmont Community Ambulance hosts its Friday Night Bingo every Friday! Come out to the Thurmont Event Complex every Friday night to play bingo! Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Bingo starts at 7:00 p.m. Bingo also features tip jars, food, and a jackpot up to $1,500! Proceeds benefit Thurmont Community Ambulance. View the advertisement on page 42.
Festival at Mt. Tabor Church Park
All ages are invited to the Festival at Mount Tabor Church Park in Rocky Ridge on Saturday, September 23, from 3:00-7:00 p.m., featuring live music, delicious home-cooked food (cash only), and Christian Fellowship! View the advertisement on page 26 for more information.
Festival at Mt. Tabor Church Park
All ages are invited to the Festival at Mount Tabor Church Park in Rocky Ridge on Saturday, September 23, from 3:00-7:00 p.m., featuring live music, delicious home-cooked food (cash only), and Christian Fellowship! View the advertisement on page 26 for more information.
MWA Music in the Park
Come out for MWA Music in the Park on Sunday, September 17, at Taneytown Memorial Park in Taneytown, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Open outdoor seating, so bring your chairs and blankets! Refreshments available. This is a donation-only event. MWA is matching $2,500 of net proceeds. Event benefits the Maryland Horse Rescue. View the advertisement on page 12 for more information.
Old Fashioned Bingo
Mark your calendar for Old Fashioned Bingo on Saturday, September 9, at St. Anthony’s Shrine Upper Hall on St. Anthony Road in Emmitsburg. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., with games starting at 6:30 p.m. Bingo features 50/50, tip jars, and raffles. Benefits Cemetery Fund. View the advertisement on page 19 for more information.
Woodsboro Days
Bring the whole family out for Woodsboro Days on October 21 and 22! On October 21, from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., enjoy yard sales and food sales at the Woodsboro Lutheran Church, and October 22, from noon-6:00 p.m., enjoy a free music festival in Woodsboro Park some great bands! Plus, there will be face painting, vendors, beer, wine, food trucks, and so much more! View the advertisement on page 21 for more information.
4th Annual ZumbaThon
Come out to dance for a cure at the 4th Annual ZumbaThon for Thurmont’s Gateway to the Cure on Sunday, October 22, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., at the Thurmont American Legion on Park Lane in Thurmont. Registration is $20.00 per person; $15.00 per person (ages 55+). View the advertisement on page 26 for information on how to register today!
Annual Labor Day Festival
Everyone is welcome to Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Thurmont for its Annual Labor Day Festival on Monday, September 4, from noon-5:00 p.m., featuring a raffle and a family-style dinner, as well as music by Home Comfort Bluegrass Band. The cost is $15.00 per adult, $6.50 for ages 6-12, and free for ages 5 and under. View the advertisement on page 42 for more information.
Events at Harriet Chapel
You won’t want to miss these upcoming events at Harriet Chapel on Catoctin Furnace Road in Thurmont: the Fall Fest and Giant Yard Sale on October 12-14, from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Enjoy delicious food, a bake table, and lots of items for sale at great prices! View the advertisement on page 45 for more information.
67th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show
The 67th Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 8-10, at Catoctin High School in Thurmont. This is a not-to-be-missed community event! Free parking, admission, and entertainment. Enjoy auctions, exhibits, contests, two buffets catered and served by Mountain Gate Restaurant, live music, and so much more! View the advertisement on page 15 for more information.
Town of Emmitsburg Elections in September
The Town of Emmitsburg announces the town’s election day will take place on Tuesday, September 26, from 7:00-8:00 p.m. at the old town office at 22 East Main Street. The mayor’s seat and one commissioner seat are up for election. Registration applications can be obtained at the town office, located at 300A South Seton Avenue in Emmitsburg, or by visiting www.elections.maryland.gov. The write-in deadline is September 19 at noon. View the advertisement on page 6 for more information or visit www.emmitsburgmd.gov.
St. Paul’s and Mt. Moriah’s Evangelical Lutheran Church’s Upcoming Events
St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church on Greensburg Road in Smithsburg is holding a Dinner and a Movie on Sunday, September 10, at 6:00 p.m. Admission is free. A Labyrinth Observing St. Michael and All Angels will be held on Friday, September 29, at 6:30 p.m. at Mt. Moriah Evangelical Lutheran Church on Foxville Road in Sabillasville. View the advertisement on page 14 for more information.
Tom’s Creek UMC
Tom’s Creek United Methodist Church of Emmitsburg is hosting a “MULCH” fundraiser sale. Hardwood Mulch is offered by the bag at $5.00 per 3-cubic-foot bag or $4.00 per bag for 20 bags or more. Contact Curtis Baughman at 443-336-5269 to order mulch or if you have any questions. On Sunday, September 10, wear your western gear (cowboy hats, boots, bandanas, etc.) and bring a friend to Round-Up Sunday at the church for fellowship and fun! View the advertisement on page 57 for more information.
Hot Rods and Hoses Cruise-In
Come out for the Hot Rods and Hoses Cruise-In on Saturday, September 30, from 4:00-8:00 p.m., at the Thurmont Carnival Grounds on E. Main Street.Enjoy live music with an Elvis Tribute from 5:00-7:00 p.m., along with tip jars, raffles, and plenty of food! Event is free to the public and spectators; $5.00 to “cruise in” (optional) to be eligible for a money drawing at the end of the event. Presented by the Guardian Hose Company. View the advertisement on page 31 for more information.
Indian Lookout Conservation Club
Indian Lookout Conservation Club in Emmitsburg is holding Shotgun Shoots on September 10 and September 24 (as well as October 8 and 22 and November 5). Registration begins at noon. Shoots start at 1:00 p.m. Plus, 3-D Archery Shoots will be held on Thursday evenings at 5:00 p.m. View the advertisement on page 32 for more information.
Frederick County Parks & Rec Trick or Treat
Mark your calendar for Frederick County Parks & Recreation’s History Trick or Treat at Rose Hill Manor Park in Frederick on Friday, October 27 (entry times from 6:00-7:30 p.m.), and Saturday, October 28 (entry times from 3:00-7:30 p.m.) Cost is $5.00 per person. Advanced registration is required. Volunteers are needed to dress up in costume and hand out treats: www.recreater.com/volunteer. View the advertisement on page 51 for more information.
Rocky Ridge VFC 12 Days of Christmas
Get your tickets now for Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company’s 12 Days of Christmas at $10.00 donation per ticket! Win guns or cash! Winners are determined by evening “Pick 3.” Cash alternative to firearms $350. View the advertisement on page 41 for information on how to get your tickets!
German POW Falls for Orrtanna Girl
Richard D. L. Fulton
Based on ‘Nazis’ in Gettysburg: World War II Comes to a Civil War Battlefield by Richard D. L. Fulton, pending publication
Over the course of World War II, three POW camps (they were called PW camps then) were constructed on the Gettysburg National Battlefield Park, one initially on Emmitsburg Road (which held some 400 prisoners) and then two on West Confederate Avenue (with a combined population of 800 prisoners).
The reason the German prisoners were here was to compensate for the loss of young men who had been involved in the local agricultural and canning enterprises and who were drafted or enlisted in the military to help fight the war.
As for escaping, under international law, POW escape cannot be regarded as a crime. When caught they were simply returned to their compound. If it involved a group, they would be split up and sent to different compounds. Escapees could be charged if they committed a crime or crimes during their escape (for example, stealing a vehicle).
German POW Hans Herman Harloff, age 20, a member of German General Rommel’s Afrika Corps, had fallen in love with Pearl Crease of Orrtanna, who worked at the cannery where he was employed. While the cannery was not specified in ensuing reports, Crease’s 2007 obituary stated she “had worked for many years at Krouse Foods in Orrtanna.” Prisoners were not permitted to communicate with civilian co-workers, but Harloff and Crease managed to stay in touch through smuggling letters to one another.
Harloff, along with fellow prisoner Bernard Wagner, 24, a probable prisoner taken during the Normandy invasion, escaped January 4, 1946, from the POW compound that had been located on West Confederate Avenue at the site of a former Civilian Conservation Corps camp. The escapees had found an unguarded corner of the camp and slipped out from between strands of barbed wire.
When recaptured on January 7 near Zora, a little community outside of Carroll County Township, by Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents, Pennsylvania State Police, and military personnel, the duo reportedly told authorities they had escaped because they just wanted to see America, but Crease’s letters discovered among Harloff’s personal effects told a different story.
Much of the rest of the story comes from the subsequent March 4 testimony of FBI Agent Maurice Carroll that had been given on March 4, leading to arrest warrants being issued, and FBI Agent H.B. Fletcher on the March 11 hearing (before the federal grand jury in Scranton).
As the story unfolded, it was a much bigger case than an otherwise perfectly legal POW escape attempt. The Crease family was implicated in aiding and abetting the escape.
According to the FBI agents’ testimonies, Harloff and Wagner made their way to the Crease’s home, arriving there around 2:00 a.m., where the family provided the escapees with food, water, and rendered other assistance, directing the escaped prisoners to a vacant house where they could hide.
The family continued to provide the escapees with food and subsequently transported them to an unused barn on the property of Clayton Philips of Emmitsburg, where they were discovered after authorities received a “tip.” The duo was discovered hiding in a straw stack.
The agents testified that letters from Crease to Harloff found among his belongings led investigators to the Crease household and the subsequent arrest of Pearl Crease and her parents, Byron J. and Lovell Herring, with each member being released on $1,000 bail each, pending a trial.
On May 7, the three pled guilty to harboring a German prisoner of war. The parents were each given probationary sentences of a year and a day, and Pearl was given a probationary sentence of two years.
Normally, the charges would have been very severe. But note the date of the offense: January 1946. The war was already over. The Germans were technically no longer prisoners of war and were merely biding their time awaiting repatriation (being returned to their homelands).
The judge stated that, given that the war was over and the “good reputation borne by the Crease family” that “imprisonment would serve no good purpose.”
West Confederate Avenue (McMillan Woods) CCC camp before being converted to a POW camp.
Photo Courtesy of Gettysburg National Park Service
The Day the South Won
Richard D. L. Fulton
Based on The Last to Fall: The 1922 March, Battles, & Deaths of U.S. Marines at Gettysburg by Richard D. L. Fulton and James Rada, Jr.
We have all been taught that the South “lost” the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, fought when the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia, under General Robert E. Lee, collided with the Union Army of the Potomac, under General George Meade.
While one could argue ad infinitum the validity of declaring the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg a Confederate defeat, Confederate forces did, in fact, defeat the Union forces and win the Battle of Gettysburg on that hallowed ground—only 59 years too late.
The year was 1922, four years after the end of the First World War, when more than 5,000 Marines—including the entire Fifth and Sixth Corps—along with their artillery, antiaircraft guns, M1919 tanks, dive and torpedo bombers, scout planes, and observation balloons descended upon Gettysburg—following their week-long, more than 80-mile trek from Quantico, Virginia, to the historic Civil War battlefield of 1863—for their annual summer maneuvers.
The troops left Quantico on June 19, arriving in Gettysburg on June 26. Some of the supplies and equipage were flown in or sent by railroad. It was said that it took the column more than a half hour to pass any given point along the line of the march.
The planned activities were two-fold: to train the troops and to hold public reenactments to promote the Marine Corps in the eyes of the public. The Marines held their public reenactments (specifically reenacting Pickett’s Charge, the game-changer that, on July 3, 1863, concluded the Battle of Gettysburg) on July 1, 3, and 4. The July 1 and July 3 reenactments were held in Civil War fashion, in conformity with the actual charge that occurred.
But the July 4 reenactment was another thing, altogether, because that day’s version of Picket’s Charge would be fought with all of the fire and fury and equipage of a World War I battle.
“On July 4, the Marines will fight the Battle of Gettysburg as they think it ought to have been fought… with tanks, airplanes, observation balloons and machine guns. They don’t need any rehearsal for this. They learned a good deal about it in France.” The (Baltimore) Sun, June 28, 1922.
Prior to the July 4 battle, the Marines announced that Colonel Frederick L. Bradman would be portraying Confederate General Robert E. Lee, while Major H.B. Pratt would portray Confederate General James Longstreet, and Confederate General George Picket was portrayed by Colonel James K. Tracey. Apparently, no one was assigned to represent the Union command.
Among the multitude of civilians that had arrived to see the battle was Colonel E.B. Cope, superintendent of the Gettysburg National Military Park, who had actually been attached to Union General Meade’s headquarters at Gettysburg during the July 3, 1863, charge. A number of Veterans of the war were also present to view the reenactment.
The Marines divided up their numbers to create the Union and Confederate forces needed to fight that battle.
Preparing for battle, the Confederate Marines were able to use their current uniforms by modifying how such was worn, including refiguring the slouch and floppy hats to the appropriate style. Beets were boiled to be used as blood during the battle.
The battle opened on July 4, with an artillery fire and the lofting of a Confederate observation balloon, which immediately triggered a dogfight between Union and Confederate bi-wing aircraft, the highlight of which was the shooting down of the observation balloon, which fell, burning the ground. The pilot threw out a dummy and, shortly after, parachuted himself out of the burning assemblage. The burning balloon landed somewhere on the west side of Seminary Ridge.
Around 10:30 a.m., smoke candles were lit ahead of the massed Confederate infantry to simulate the fog of war that would have been generated by all the mystery and artillery fire of July 3, 1863. Then came the Confederate advance, but unlike the deployment of Southern troops during the actual charge, in which the troops would have advanced in long shoulder-to-shoulder lines, they advanced in Squads and platoons as they would have done in battle in 1922.
The Marines advanced onto Emmitsburg Road, where they deployed machine gun crews and their weapons units, supported by squads of infantry. The (Baltimore) Sun wrote on July 5, “The audience heard only the thunder of artillery and the tat-tat-tat of machine gun and the crack of rifles… while the visible infantry appeared and disappeared within the voluminous amount of smoke.”
As the Marines prepared to advance on what today is referred to as the High Water Mark (which marks the furthest Confederate troops advanced on the July 3, 1863, charge), Confederate dive bombers strafed the Union troops posted behind the stone wall that further denotes the High Water Mark.
Then came the tanks, which The (Baltimore) Sun described as seeming, “Like lazy animals, already gorged with battle and bored with the slaughter, they wobbled through the oat fields, converging on the Codori House, and at a few hundred yards began spitting flame and smoke from their one-pounders.”
Union troops were offering serious resistance in the Codori House and outbuildings, so the Marines ordered up two tanks to take them out. Another two tanks were deployed on the left flank of the Confederate advance. One of the tanks rolled up to the Codori House and fired a smoke round into the house through a window and the Union resistance ceased.
The rifles used in the battle fired blanks, but blanks had not been developed at the time for machine guns, so the machine guns were firing live rounds. Berms had been created a short distance around the Codori Farm, into which the machine gunners directed their fire. The tank more than likely only fired smoke rounds, as well as their machine guns. Every so many Confederate Marines carried shotguns with smoke shells that they would fire into the ground as they progressed to simulate artillery shell impacts.
The Union troops had also created several mock pillboxes between Emmitsburg Road and the High Water Mark, in which they placed their machine guns—probably firing also into the temporary berms—and these were soon silenced by the tanks.
The battle was also monitored by judges, delegating points for gains made or losses taken. When the Confederate Marines cleared all of the Union resistance from Emmitsburg up to the High Water Mark, the battle was called off, and the Confederate Marines were judged to have been the victors. The South had just effectively won the Battle of Gettysburg.
The (Baltimore) Sun wrote, July 5, 1922, “Cemetery Ridge fell today, the blazing hills and knolls that hurled back the Confederate Army’s massed attacks in 1863 were silenced this morning by the United States Marines. Attacking like Indians among the wheat shocks and through the stubble and oat fields, while big guns pounded to pulp and machine guns peppered to death the fortresses that had held the old Union Army safe 59 years ago.”
The Marines left Gettysburg on July 6 and marched back to Quantico. They would not engage a Civil War enemy again until their summer maneuvers in 1923, when they advanced on the New Market Battlefield in Virginia, only this time as Union troops!
Source: Last to Fall, Fulton/Rada
Three of four “Confederate” tanks await the battle.
Source: Last to Fall, Fulton/Rada
“Confederate” Marine setting up machine guns on Emmitsburg Road.
Source: Last to Fall, Fulton/Rada
“Confederate” Marine platoons assault the Codori House.
by Helen Xia, CHS Student Writer
The title says it all: Is celebrating birthdays becoming less popular?
I was particularly curious about this topic this month because it’s my birthday month! I’m far from alone—did you know that August is the most common birthday month? On the flip side, February is the month with the least births in the United States. If you do the math, you’ll find that nine months back from August lands you around December—a very festive time of the year, indeed.
Ironically, holidays are some of the least common birthdays, including December 25, January 1, October 31, and July 4. Can you guess what the most common birthday is in the United States? It’s an obscure trivia question, so I’ll give you a hint: It’s in September… It’s September 9!
I feel that birthdays become increasingly less relevant as time goes on. When I was younger, I’d receive presents and celebrate with numbered candles. Now, other than having an excuse to eat an entire cake, my birthday is like any other typical day. It’s a little sad, but it’s true. However, is that the case with the general population?
After looking into it a bit, I’ve discovered that how I feel isn’t out of the ordinary. According to YouGov, around 47 percent of Americans feel neutral about their special day, and only 48 percent of people feel happy on their birthdays. Fortunately, 48 percent of people like or love their birthdays, and only 11 percent of people dislike or hate them. Other than happiness, leading sentiments were excitement, indifference, and calmness.
It seems that the attitude toward birthdays is more positive than negative, overall, though there is a very strong group that is simply unconcerned about turning a year older.
Don’t let me deter you from loving birthdays, though! Nine in ten Americans say it’s important to celebrate birthdays, and about 85 perecent of them feel special when their loved ones put a lot of energy into celebrating their day. With that being said, you may be wondering: How exactly do people choose to celebrate their birthdays?
From the same YouGov poll referenced earlier, the organization concluded that the most common American tradition is thanking God for being alive; specifically, 54 percent of the respondents did this nearly every year. Following this is spending time with family, opening presents and cards, and having a special meal or eating cake.
Speaking of cake, can you guess Americans’ least and most favorite birthday cakes? There’s one winner for most favorite, and it’s not a close call: It’s chocolate cake. This is followed by ice cream cake and cheesecake, which is a statistic I didn’t expect. On the other hand, the most disliked cakes are funfetti and carrot cake. I didn’t expect that, either.
There’s still a question I haven’t answered: Why? Why do people like or dislike birthdays? I thought this would be an interesting interview question, so I asked people—both teenagers and adults—to get some insight into this query. What exactly does a birthday stand for to people?
Most of the teenagers I received responses from didn’t feel passionate about their birthdays. “Nothing,” a teenager replied, “usually, it’s just cake.” Similarly, another said, “It’s boring, honestly. I don’t think much about it until it comes up.”
Among the neutral statements were a few saddening ones. “I feel nothing, to be honest,” a teenager commented. “I don’t like celebrating my birthday. It’s just one day closer to death, and it’s [one] day closer to losing the people you love.”
Moving on to the adults: The trend of neutrality continued in the replies from them, as well. “It’s nothing special,” a young adult explained, “It’s just another day.” Another shrugged, “Nothing, I don’t celebrate ‘cause I don’t care. It’s [not] important.”
Thankfully, I did receive some positive remarks this time!
“I feel like birthdays are a happy celebration meant to show appreciation toward the person being celebrated,” an adult elaborated. “Maybe it’s a bit morbid, but [I feel] glad this person was able to live another year with me. I really love celebrating birthdays and keeping notes on things I know people like, so I can get them something related.”
Another answered, “[I] can’t wait [for my birthday.] I like it; it’s exciting! [I] just went out with my friends for a few drinks.”
On that note of birthday tradition, somebody added, “I don’t really celebrate my birthdays, but I chill with my friends.”
The final respondent gave a thoughtful message to everyone: “[Birthdays give] another chance to grow and mature, explore, and learn from mistakes, and you only get so many of those chances in life.”
All of the responses considered, it’s evident that this “special” day isn’t special for everyone, which is understandable. While I struggle sometimes to feel happy about getting a year older, I do think it’s ultimately a day to feel grateful and proud of yourself for making it this far. It wasn’t easy to do so, I’m sure!
In a few weeks, I’ll be seventeen. Regardless of how old I feel, one fact is settling in now: I have a long road ahead of me. I’m almost a legal adult now, which is crazy!
Does anybody have advice on how to handle adulthood? I’m going to need it.
“My birthday cake for my sixteenth birthday! It was a sweet sixteen, indeed.”
Photo by Helen Xia
The 67th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road in Thurmont, on September 8, 9 and 10, 2023.
The entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 7, from 5:30-8:30 p.m., and on Friday, September 8, from 8:30-11:30 a.m., in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area.
Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 8, from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
The show will open to the public on Friday, September 8, at 5:30 p.m., and the opening program will begin at 6:30 p.m. with the 45th Annual Community Organization Flag Ceremony. Patriotic music will be performed by the Catoctin High School Band, and the 2023-2024 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. Admission is free, and a silver offering will be received to benefit the Sabillasville Environmental School. Parking is free, provided courtesy of the Thurmont Scout Troop 270. Visitors are encouraged to sign up for door prizes, which will be drawn over the weekend. No animals are allowed inside the school (except service animals).
The Baked Goods Auction will begin immediately following the program (at approximately 7:30 p.m., and the grand champion and reserve champion cake, pie, and bread and junior and youth department champions will be sold at 8:00 p.m.
On Saturday, September 9, the show will be held from 9:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep and Swine Fitting & Show, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the Ag Center at the school. The Thurmont Guardian Hose Company No. 10 and the Emmitsburg Vigilant Hose Company 6 will be conducting fire safety demonstrations, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in front of the school, before the Pet Show.
The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. outside the front of the school. The petting zoo, farm animals, sow and litter of piglets, pony rides, and face painting will also be held on Saturday and Sunday near the Ag Center area. The Elower-Sicilia Productions dance show will be held in the auditorium at 1:00 p.m., and the Thurmont Academy of Self Defense will provide a martial arts demonstration in the auxiliary gym at 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Mountain Gate Restaurant will cater and serve a roast turkey and baked ham buffet in the school cafeteria, from 3:00-6:30 p.m. on Saturday night, benefitting the Thurmont Grange No. 409. The Gospel Ridge Bluegrass Band will perform in the school auditorium at 6:30 p.m. There will be no admission charge for the entertainment.
The 49th Annual Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters Beef, Sheep & Swine and Market Goat Sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night, with approximately 50 animals being sold. Buyers are welcome to support the local FFA and 4-H youth with their animal projects.
Activities begin on Sunday, September 10, at 9:00 a.m. with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show.
In the Ag Center area, there will be a petting zoo, sow and litter of piglets, pony rides, and face painting. The Decorated Animal Contest will begin at 11:00 a.m. in the Ag Center area, and prize money will be awarded.
Beginning at 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., Mountain Gate Restaurant will cater and serve a fried chicken and pulled pork BBQ buffet dinner in the school cafeteria, which will benefit the Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters.
A pedal tractor contest for kids will be held on Sunday afternoon at noon in the Ag Center, and the Log Sawing Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. under the show tent in the Ag Center area, with categories consisting of women’s team, men’s team, men and women’s team, and a children’s division. Prize money will be awarded to winners in each division.
The 42nd Annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. on the softball field, and prize money will be awarded.
Elvis Tribute Artist Taylor Brown will perform in the school auditorium on Sunday at 12:30 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. There is no admission charge.
Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 10, between 3:00-5:30 p.m. Please note the new deadline to pick up items.
Other food vendors at the Community Show throughout the weekend include Creager’s Country Catering, which will be located in the Ag Center area; Glamour View Creamery, which will be located in front of the school; and the Catoctin FFA Chapter.
The community show booklets can be found in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg, and surrounding area businesses. New residents of the community are urged to enter and be a part of the Community Show, the largest in the State of Maryland.
Exhibit departments include: Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing & Needlework, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Paintings & Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department and Youth Department.
There is no entry fee. Please visit the website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow.webs.com.
The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters, the Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board.
Pomme Agaçante
So, it’s August. Already. And how do I know? Simple: store displays of school supplies. Now, before I continue, I’d like to alert kiddos in middle school and younger not to read this. Why? I don’t want to stress you out about school! Try to enjoy your summer! Okay, cool. Read on and enjoy, teens and adults.
Thanks to big office supply and grocery stores, kids across the nation are forced to face the cold hard reality that another summer of blissful freedom and fun shall soon draw to an end. Though to be fair, these kiddos are exposed to this idea in July. It’s hard for kids to be innocent and happy when the weight of school “drawing near” is dragging down those little sandaled feet.
But, have no fear! These stores are here to prepare one physically—not mentally because how else would they market so much if they didn’t pry on the fear and insecurity a child and parent feel—with a barrage of folders, binders, endless sheets of looseleaf paper that may never see use, pencils that invariably get lost, and emotional support plushies.
It’s true one must research the market to find the best place to find these goods. And with online shopping and many other suppliers, it’s hard to choose. There are selections of office supply stores and grocery superstores, as well as local stores.
So, which one to go to? Well, as a hardened veteran of school shopping, I can give you the inside scoop.
In terms of a multitude of school supplies to choose from, office supply stores have you covered with top-of-the-line backpacks, folders/notebooks with slick designs, endless pens and pencils for that pesky teacher who wants ridiculously specific writing utensils, and an amazing selection of art supplies. If you want peace of mind as you shop, this is the place for you. Office supply stores emanate a purposeful professional vibe with plenty of space, except for the long line for one cashier open. Yet, if you’re looking to save money…good luck with that one.
The grocery superstores are a tried-and-true supplier of many school products, but these stores have some downfalls.
Good luck with the selection. Scarcity and surplus aren’t just terms kids will learn in biology. Nope, it’s a concept they can learn early, often at the risk of a temper tantrum.
Sure there are four sections of supplies, but they’re close together. Parents have to not only navigate a crowd only armed with a big shopping cart, a reluctant but picky child or two, a wallet that may cry, a scavenger (school supply) list, and waning patience, but must do so amongst kindred spirits with the same objective. Sure, that could result in looks of understanding and helpful collaboration. But we all know the grocery superstore ideology: find something and get out because life’s too short.
What does a grocery superstore have over an office supply store?
Price. Yeah, I said a parent’s wallet may cry, but it’s like a few tears versus the sobbing a wallet would do at a fancy office supply store.
Bribes for wailing kids to quiet down and come to grips with the fact that, no, they can’t have that folder and it won’t make them popular and happy.
Items for adults to get through the entire ordeal? Tylenol, candy bars, and a coffee. In-store Auntie Anne’s and Subway. Need I say more?
As for anyone free of the burden of school shopping, displays are impactful as well. Students feel dread and anxiety, parents feel a headache coming on, and others feel nostalgia with a pang of sadness and jealousy. Ah, to be young again and worry about notebook color over nearsightedness or expiration dates. Creativity has drained from office supplies. Maybe it’s time for a change. Picture this: a new line of briefcases, ranging from glittery cats to robots to rainbows to dinosaurs, coupled with functionality. Pens with emotive faces, pastel memo pads, and bright pink or blue mouses/keyboards gracing drab offices everywhere. Maybe it would make the Monday grind better, especially if the coffee machine had a smiling kitty saying “You can do it!”
There are some positives that come from school shopping. Seeing the innovations of supply makers (baby shark backpack, anyone?) and a bit of excitement or memories, comes to mind. But best of all? Lunchbox snacks are front and center in the food section. Admit it, we all love Lil’ Debbie for their never-changing oatmeal pies and cosmic brownies. The chip multipacks make the commitment to one chip bag less of a conundrum! Fruit Roll up, anyone? And there’s nothing wrong with everyone getting these tasty foods. Everyone needs a boost of glucose and endorphins at lunch. Kids to power those sponges of brains; adults to move and shake the world. Pump your fist to the sky—I don’t care what age you are—and chant “I deserve this!” if you’re in doubt about buying it. There’s no law against having it. Everyone deserves happiness.
That’s all for my monologue. Thanks for reading! Kids, best of luck, and believe in yourself this school year. Parents, do the same and treat yourself. Others? Well, have that nostalgic snack food. Don’t give me excuses. Just enjoy it, because you are deserving of joy.
by James Rada, Jr.
Thurmont Volunteer of the Year Named
The Thurmont Lions Club recently announced at a Thurmont town meeting that Bernie and Joanne Ricketts had been named recipients of the annual Thurmont Volunteer of the Year Award. They are volunteers at the Thurmont Food Bank and help with a variety of jobs that need to be done to have food ready for area families in need.
They received a certificate of appreciation, a gift card to a restaurant, and a $400 donation to a charity of their choice, which, not surprisingly, was the Thurmont Food Bank.
Thurmont Police Officer of the Year Named
Thurmont Police Det. Gerald Bowen was recently named as the Thurmont Police Officer of the Year. He has served with the department since 2013, and his investigations were called “thorough and meticulous.”
Bowen received a certificate of appreciation, a gift card to a restaurant, and a $400 donation to a charity of his choice, which was St. Jude’s Children Hospital.
Town Restricts the Types of Animals in the Town
The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners amended the town ordinance to restrict the type of animals that are allowed within the town limits. The changes allow the code enforcement officer the ability to issue citations and take other actions to correct a problem in town of people having what many people would consider livestock in their backyards. In recent months, some people with an abundance of animals in their yards have caused problems for their neighbors that include smells, mosquitos, noise, and rats.
Contract Awarded for Frederick Road Repaving
The Thurmont Mayor and Board of Commissioners awarded Pleasant’s Construction, Inc. to repave Frederick Road, from Tippin Drive to the Hunting Creek Bridge. There are also sections of curb and gutter that will be removed and replaced. The contract was for $191,470 and will be paid for with Highway User Revenues.
Sweeney’s Town Service Recognized
The Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners issued a proclamation recognizing Commissioner Cliff Sweeney’s service to the Emmitsburg Lions Club. He has been a member for 15 years and served as president of the club since 2010. During much of the time, he also served as an Emmitsburg town commissioner. The proclamation recognized not only his service but the fact that he is a resource to the community.
Discussion on Enterprise Fund Allocations Continue
The Emmitsburg Town Commissioners continue to discuss how staff salaries and other expenses are allocated to the town’s enterprise funds for water and sewer. Commissioner Amy Boehman – Pollitt has been the driving force behind an effort to find out how much of employee salaries are allocated to the enterprise funds and to determine whether this could be instead allocated to the general fund.
While such a change would make the enterprise fund smaller, it would increase the general fund, so that overall, the taxpayer would see no difference in what they pay. In fact, it could actually increase town residents’ total tax bills from the town.
During the July meeting of the commissioners, it was pointed out that some of the largest users on the town water system are not within the town limits. These large users also pay the highest rates. Because of this, anything charged to the water enterprise fund is spread over more users who pay greater water rates. This actually reduces the impact on town residents’ overall tax burden because non-residents are paying part of the water fund.
Anything the commissioners move from the water fund to the general fund will be paid for by residents alone.
Public Works Agreements Signed for Development Projects
The Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners approved and authorized the mayor to sign public works agreements between the town and Federal Stone and the town and Silo Hill Plaza.
Newly Awarded Grant
The Town of Emmitsburg recently received $2,255,552 in loans and grants from the MWIFA for water projects. North Seton Avenue waterline replacement will receive $1,145,552 ($859,164 from a loan and a $286,388 grant). DePaul Street waterline replacement will receive $1,110,000 ($832,500 from a loan and a $277,500 grant).
Board of Commissioners to Look Different in the Fall
With Emmitsburg Mayor Don Briggs’ announcement that he won’t seek a fifth term as mayor, the make-up of the board of commissioners and mayor will look different after this fall’s election to elect a mayor and town commissioner.
There will be a new mayor, and the two announced candidates are commissioners Frank Davis and Tim O’Donnell. If one of them wins the mayor election, a new commissioner will need to be appointed to fill the unexpired term.
In addition, Commissioner Joseph Ritz, III will not be seeking re-election. This means another commissioner seat will be filled with a new face.
The Emmitsburg town election will be held on Tuesday, September 26, at 22 East Main Street. Any potential candidates must file an application with the Emmitsburg town clerk by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, August 25. Financial disclosures are also due for each candidate at that time.
Mayor Don Briggs
ON VACATION
Mayor John Kinnaird
It’s hard to believe we are already more than halfway through 2023! Summer has been great so far, but it looks like the temps are going to be hitting the mid-90s for the beginning of August. When the temperatures rise, be sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, limit your time outdoors, wear a hat, and do not overexert yourselves. Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke can come on quickly and is life-threatening, with symptoms that can include a throbbing headache; confusion; nausea; dizziness; body temps over 103F; red, hot, dry, or damp skin; rapid pulse; fainting; and loss of consciousness. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke symptoms, call 911 and get medical assistance immediately.
The Frederick Road upgrades are completed, and the roadway is much improved. We appreciated everyone’s patience. Frederick Road was one of several paving projects we have in our pipeline. Improvements will be made to other roadways as funds become available.
The new softball field is under construction at East End Park. The mass grading is complete, and the conduit has been installed for the lighting system. The field should be ready for play by summer 2024. We are also installing a new loudspeaker system in Community Park, and the new tennis courts will be installed next spring. Planning has started on the pedestrian bridge over Hunting Creek that will provide a connection between Community Park and West Main Street. This bridge will provide an access point to Community Park for residents along West Main Street. It is also an integral part of the Gateway Trail and will allow hikers and bikers easier access to the State and Federal Park trails and will bring additional pedestrian and bike users to our downtown and Community Trail system.
We will soon be getting started on our Annual Gateway to the Cure events. The Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, September 22, at the Maple Run Golf Course, and the Covered Bridge 5K Run-Walk will be held on Saturday, October 21, at Eyler Road Park. This will be the Fifth Annual Golf Classic and the Ninth Annual Gateway to the Cure Covered Bridge 5K! Pink light bulbs, pinwheels, T-shirts, and other items will be available at the Town Office and other locations. The residents of Thurmont have been very generous in their support of this worthwhile cause. Thurmont is the only community in Frederick County to whole-heartedly support the ongoing breast cancer research, breast cancer treatment, and patient support provided to local patients through the Patty Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund at Frederick Health Hospital. These local efforts have resulted in donations of over $137,000 from the Thurmont Community over the past eight years! Cancer is a disease that touches everyone, either personally or through family and friends. Please support us this year as we join the Patty Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund in the fight against cancer.
The North Church Street project will be getting underway in late September. This project will include the replacement or upgrading of the water lines and wastewater mains that serve all the homes and businesses on North Church Street from the railroad bridge to past Sheetz, and will require one lane of traffic to be closed, with flaggers directing traffic. Consideration will be given to school traffic during the length of the project. You will be encouraged to find alternate routes to bypass the construction, if possible. This month-long project will bring improved dependability to the critical water and wastewater systems to a large part of our community. Once this infrastructure work has been completed, the Maryland Department of Transportation – State Highway Administration will be repaving North Church Street.
The 67th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show is September 8-10. This show offers everyone an opportunity to see how our agricultural heritage continues to play a large part in the Thurmont, Emmitsburg, and surrounding communities. The Catoctin High School FFA program is featured heavily and includes the livestock displays, livestock show, and auction. The Grange Livestock Auction helps students with the costs of higher education. The show also serves to display local talent in canning, baking, photography, fruit and vegetable growing, handcrafts, sewing & knitting, and other areas. There will be plenty of displays. The Annual Cake Auction is one of the highlights of the show and raises money to help the Grange support our Ag students. Farming is alive and doing well in Frederick County. Join us for the best community show in Maryland!
Colorfest this year is October 14 and 15. Colorfest is the single biggest fundraising opportunity for many of our churches, civic organizations, and non-profits. I look forward to welcoming tens of thousands of visitors each day.
Questions, comments, or concerns? I can be reached by cell phone at 301-606-9458 or by email at [email protected].
Burgess Heath Barnes
Greetings! I hope you all are having a wonderful summer. I cannot believe that at the end of this month, schools will be back in session for our students and teachers. I know in Woodsboro, we are currently having issues with people speeding down the streets. I highly encourage everyone to watch their speed, even more as our children begin returning to school. I did mention to the counsel that I will be gathering information on what it will take to install some speed cameras in town, as the problem has become much worse lately.
At the July 18th meeting, we had a very short meeting. I informed the council that I had met with the electric company to start the process of running the electricity into the eastern side of the park, where the stage is and where the new restroom is to be built. Based on different options, it’s possible we may have the electricity run before the music festival at Woodsboro Days in October. This will be nice for the bands, as for the last few years we have run the electricity off a generator. I also met with Ben Marshall and the contractor to build the skate park. I let them know that we had received a pending grant of $137,000 to build the park. Once we receive the official grant letter from the state, we will sign the contract and construction will begin shortly. The resurfacing of the tennis court and the pickleball lines has been tentatively scheduled and will begin any day now.
The latest town hall update is that I had a call with the engineer. He is optimistic that we will have it out for build within the next 60 days as the process is moving through the county at a good pace without hiccups right now. I remain optimistic that we will have a building started by late fall.
As always, I encourage everyone to support Glade Valley Community Services (GVCS) if you have clothes or food donations, as they are always in need of items for members of the community. For more information, please contact GVCS by email at [email protected] or call 301-845-0213.
If you have any questions, concerns, complaints, or compliments, please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] or by phone at 301-401-7164.
Woodsboro Town meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. In addition, Planning and Zoning (P&Z) meetings are at 6:00 p.m. on the first Monday of the month, as needed. If you have an item for the agenda, it needs to be submitted 14 days before the P&Z meeting. The current location for meetings is the St. John’s United Church of Christ, located at 8 N. 2nd Street, Woodsboro, MD 21798. The public is always invited to attend.