Currently viewing the category: "Columns"

BY Caitlyn Kirby

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joan Bittner Fry

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

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

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

Submitted by Joan Bittner Fry

Fireplace Wood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Waste Anything

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Understanding Estimated Tax Payments

Who Needs to Pay & How to Stay on Track

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

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

What Are Estimated Tax Payments?

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

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

Who Needs to Make Estimated Tax Payments?

Generally, you need to make estimated tax payments if:

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

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

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

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

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

Safe Harbor Rules: Prior Year vs. Current Year Calculations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Withholding Advantage: A Way to Catch Up

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

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

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

Final Thoughts: Staying on Top of Your Taxes

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

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

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

James Rada, Jr.

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

October 1924, 100 Years Ago

Annual Convention of Pythian Sisters

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

                                – Frederick News, October 7, 1924

Another “Bootie” Gets Six Months Term In Prison

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

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

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

                                – Frederick News, October 9, 1924

October 1949, 75 Years Ago

Funeral Services For Merchant Held Tuesday

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

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

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 7, 1949

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

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

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

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

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 7, 1949

October 1974, 50 Years Ago

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

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

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

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

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 3, 1974

Three Students Receive Notice

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

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 3, 1974

October 1999, 25 Years Ago

Community Harassed by Thoughtless Teens

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

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

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

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, October 1999

Global Anesthesia Systems to Build in Emmitsburg

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

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

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

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, October 1999

by Michele Tester
“Chomping at the Bit”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But, that’s just my two cents.

by James Rada

Colleges Take to the Skies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maxine Troxell

Okay, here I go, divulging the source of some of my secret recipes. Back in 1972, I purchased a cookbook from The Farm Journal called The Country Cookbook. I have gotten a lot of my prize recipes from this book, including a number of bread, cake, cookie, and pie recipes.

This Pecan Pie recipe was included in this book, and I have won several champion recipes with this pie. The filling is very easy to make. I hope you enjoy it!

USDA Pecan Pie

Ingredients

1 unbaked pie shell

4 eggs

1 cup sugar

½ teaspoon salt

1½ cups dark corn syrup

2 tablespoons, plus 1 teaspoon melted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup pecan halves

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Beat eggs just until blended but not frothy. 

Add sugar, salt, and corn syrup. Add the cooled melted butter and vanilla, mixing just enough to blend.

Spread nuts in bottom of pie shell.

Pour in filling.

Place pie in the oven and immediately reduce heat to 325 degrees. Bake for 50-60 minutes.

by Buck Reed

Cobblers, Crisps, and Buckles

It may not feel like it, but fall is upon us. And what’s not to like? We get a little respite from all the hot weather, we witness beautiful foliage change, and we get to enjoy a string of food-centric holidays. Add onto that, it’s pie season. Yes, we have to bring out the rolling pin and start our work that calls for a myriad of pies needed to pair the dessert with the holiday they line up with. Yet, maybe you can cut back a little of that work by substituting one of those pies with a crisp or a cobbler. Would anyone even notice if an apple pie was replaced by a crisp? It might bring a little variety to your feast. It will also save you a bit of labor.

Let’s start by labeling these cobblers, just to make it simple. There are many kinds of cobblers, but a basic definition of one would be “a prepared fruit that is baked under or over a batter, streusel, or dough.” Below are the basic types:

  • Betty: Fruit is topped with buttered breadcrumbs and spices and baked.
  • Buckle: Fruit is topped with a simple yellow cake batter and baked.
  • Cobbler: Fruit is covered with biscuit or pastry dough—either rolled out, stamped out, or dropped. Dessert is baked until golden brown.
  • Crisp: Fruit is topped with a mixture of butter, sugar, flour, and, sometimes, nuts, then baked.
  • Crumble: Fruit is topped with butter, sugar, flour, and oatmeal, then baked.
  • Fruit Roll: Biscuit dough is rolled and fit into a loaf pan. Fruit is added, and dough encases the fruit. Dessert is baked, then sliced.

Serving them simple is not a bad way to go, but it is just as easy to make something a bit more elegant. The only set rule is to try to serve them warm or even hot. This may call for assembling and planning on warming it up if prepared ahead or cooking it in a timely manner to be enjoyed right after your meal. You can make this work.

Right now is the perfect time to start that planning. Deals and sales are being offered by your local supermarkets, and with a little work right now, you can get started on Thanksgiving dessert and be ahead of the game. This will call for you to purchase your various fruits and begin peeling, slicing, cooking, or macerating them into a usable product that will help you make a spectacular dessert. Just place it all in freezer bags and freeze, feeling good that you have something already done for your holiday. Don’t relax too much. You still have 999,999 other things to make it to January.

Like I said, basic and simple is good, but I have done some pretty amazing things with this dessert. Try adding cheese, such as mascarpone, cheddar, or Parmesan, to your fruits. This can add an unexpected richness to your dessert. I also like a sour cream apple crisp, which is a winner in anyone’s book. Also, using a layer of cheesecake batter on your cobbler will make it stand out. Look at the various top-shelf jellies, which will add pizzazz to your dish. Raspberry or strawberry jam goes well in a berry cobbler. Why not add some fig jam as well?

This is one of those desserts that can be a game changer for your holiday feast, but you need to do a bit of planning and execution to pull it off. Make a splash this holiday season, and create your own cobbler, crisp, or buckle.

Jalapeño Popper Mac n’ Cheese Bites

Prep Time: 2o minutes

Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12
High-Calcium     Bone-Health     Vegetarian     Nut-Free     Low-Sodium

Ingredients

6 ounces small elbow macaroni

5 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 large egg

¾ cup whole milk

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon dry mustard

2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeño pepper

2 tablespoons finely chopped pickled jalapeños (optional)

12 ounces shredded Mexican cheese blend (about 3 cups), divided

Cooking spray

¼ cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)

12 pickled jalapeño slices, halved (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.

Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente, omitting salt. Drain and return the pasta to the pan. Add cream cheese and butter, stirring until the butter is melted and the cream cheese is smooth and melted. Set aside.

Whisk egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard in a large bowl. Add the pasta mixture; stir to combine. Add chopped jalapeño and chopped pickled jalapeños. Reserve 1/2 cup shredded cheese; stir the remaining cheese into the pasta mixture.

Lightly coat a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the pasta mixture into each cup; top evenly with the reserved cheese. Sprinkle evenly with panko, and lightly coat with cooking spray.

Bake until set and lightly browned on top, 22 to 24 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand for 15 minutes. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley and top each bite with a halved pickled jalapeño slice. Serve immediately.

by Richard D. L. Fulton

Staff Sgt. Richard J. Tieman

Richard J. Tieman was born on November 21, 1981, at the Letterman Army Hospital in San Francisco, and subsequently resided in Waynesboro, the residence of his father, Richard Tieman, Jr., and his stepmother, Diane Tieman. 

Tieman also had one brother, Tyler. Tyler Tieman described his brother, in an article published on May 21, 2010, by The (Harrisburg) Patriot News, as having been “full of life and fun to be around, easy-going and loved his country,” additionally noting that his brother was also a Philadelphia Eagles fan.

Tieman’s father further stated in the newspaper that, “He liked playing sports, fishing, lifting weights, and occasional drinking. The things that other young people typically do.”

Tieman enlisted in the Army at age 18 on September 29, 1999, and his first assignment had been to serve  in the Support Battalion in the 3rd Corps at Fort Hood, Texas. This was followed by his deployment for two tours of duty in the 54th Combat Engineer Battalion in Bamberg, Germany, from 2002 to 2007, during which he was promoted to sergeant and awarded the Combat Action Badge, according to his father (via goldstarfamilyregistry.com).

Tieman was serving his third tour of duty with the STB (Special Troops Battalion), V Corps, based in Heidelberg, Germany, when he and his unit were deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, when he was killed, according to the Public Opinion.

The York Dispatch reported on May 20, 2010, that Tieman died, along with four other soldiers, and other individuals (a Canadian colonel and a dozen Afghans), when a NATO convoy, in which they were riding,  was attacked in Kabul, Afghanistan.  Tieman’s father told the Public Opinion that the attack was executed by a suicide car bomber armed with 1,700 pounds of explosives.

Bob Harris, director of the Franklin County Veterans Affairs Office, reportedly had told the Public Opinion that Tieman “was in charge of the convoy as it was passing the embassy when the suicide bomber set off the bomb.”

Tieman was killed a month after having married his wife, Staff Sergeant Paulina (also in the Army), in April, and was only two months away from coming home for additional military training and to see his wife, according to the May 20 and May 29, 2010, editions of the Public Opinion.  

When Tieman was killed, his wife had learned of his death while still being stationed at Fort Riley in Kansas. His father reportedly told the Public Opinion in an earlier story that the newlyweds had been considering honeymooning in Australia.

Staff Sgt. Tieman’s body was returned back home via the Dover Air Force Base.

The Public Opinion reported in the May 23, 2010, edition that some 30 individuals held a memorial service in the parking lot of the Waynesboro K-Mart on May 22, noting that, “Community officials, police, fire, and ambulance personnel surrounded the family of the soldier… The speeches were short. The event lasted 15 minutes.”

In addition, American flags were placed throughout the downtown area.

As a further tribute, the Letterkenny Child Development Center was named in honor of Tieman in a dedication ceremony held on June 8. Tieman’s widow, Paulina, told the Public Opinion that naming the center in honor of her deceased husband was appropriate.  “Kids adored him,” she said, adding, “It could be his smile.  He was just a funny guy.”

Tieman’s body was laid to rest on June 11, 2010, in the Arlington National Cemetery.  The Public Opinion reported that Courtney Wittmann, public affairs officer for the Arlington National Cemetery, stated that the national cemetery had provided the pallbearers, firing party, and the bugler for the burial ceremony.

Staff Sgt. Tieman was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. 

Waynesboro Mayor Richard Starliper reportedly had told the Public Opinion that Tieman was the first Waynesboro resident to have been killed in action since the Vietnam War.

Staff Sgt. Richard J. Tieman

American Legion Post 168, Thurmont
The Pop-Up Shops have been a great hit! But due to Octoberfest, we are taking a break in October. We will return with Shop Small Weekend on November 30 and Christmas in Thurmont on December 7.

Calling all Legion members (yes, SAL and Auxiliary, too), we are in need of volunteers for various jobs and baked goods for Octoberfest. If you are interested in setting up, manning the bake sale tables/beer garden, and taking  down, please email thurmontlegionaux168@gmail.com and indicate where you are interested in assisting. Baked goods need to be at the Legion by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 11. We will need your name and phone number, as well as the ingredients accompanying your baked goods. Remember, these are fundraisers, and the funds help Veterans, children and youth, education, scholarships, and the community.

On October 26, National Day of the Deployed honors all service members who have been deployed in service of our country and acknowledges the sacrifices that military families make during deployment. If you know of a deployed service member, check in with the family, maybe take them to dinner, or take the kids to the park. There are many ways to show them that they are not forgotten.

The 2025 membership year began July 1. Dues for 2025 need to be paid by December 31, 2024. Dues are as follows: Legionnaires—$45.00, Sons of American Legion—(over 21) $25.00 and (under 21) $15.00; Auxiliary—$35.00; Juniors—$12.00. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Legion, stop by and pick up an application at the bar.

We are looking for a Junior Member to be Miss Poppy. If you are a member of the Legion Auxiliary Juniors or know of someone who can join as a member and would be interested in filling this position, please email thurmontlegionaux168@gmail.com.

Remember, we have fun weekly events happening at the Legion. Check us out on Facebook and in the Community Calendar in this issue. The kitchen is open with amazing specials and a regular menu on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 5:00-8:00 p.m.

Mark your calendar for our Veterans Luncheon on November 16 and Breakfast with Santa on December 14.

“The Patriot’s Pen” Essay Contest

Each year, the VFW Post 6658 Auxiliary in Emmitsburg sponsors a contest, titled “The Patriot’s Pen,” which is open to students in grades 6 through 8.

Students are required to do a typed essay of 300-400 words based on the theme: “My Voice in America’s Democracy.” Monetary prizes are given to the winners on local, state, and national levels. Judging is based on knowledge of theme, theme development, and clarity of ideas.

If interested, please contact Annette Wivell at 240-675-0356 for an entry form. Entry deadline to VFW Post 6658, Emmitsburg, is October 31, 2024.

“Voice of Democracy” Contest

Each year, the VFW Post 6658 in Emmitsburg sponsors a contest, titled “Voice of Democracy,” which is open to students in grades 9 through 12. Students are required to record a 3-5 minute audio essay based on the theme: “Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Vision?” 

Monetary prizes are given to the winners on local, state, and national levels. Judging is based on originality, content, and delivery.

If interested, please contact Eric Wivell at 240-675-0346 for an entry form. Entry deadline to VFW Post 6658, Emmitsburg, is October 31, 2024.

 

What Are Electrolytes & the Foods That Can Prevent An Imbalance?

by Dr. Thomas K. Lo, Advanced Chiropractic & Nutritional Healing Center

Electrolytes are important to your overall health. Not only are they found throughout the human body in the blood, sweat, and urine, but they also play a vital role in everything from fluid balance to heart health and brain function.

Fortunately, electrolytes are present naturally in a variety of food sources, which makes it easy to meet your needs by following a nutritious, well-rounded diet. If needed, supplements are also readily available for a quick and convenient dose of these important minerals.

What Are Electrolytes?

Electrolytes are a type of particle that carries either a positive or negative charge when dissolved in water. Strong electrolytes, such as hydrochloric acid, ionize completely in a solution, while weak electrolytes ionize only partially.

A few of the most common electrolytes that are important to health include:

•   Magnesium;

•   Phosphorus;

•   Sodium;

•   Potassium;

•   Chloride;

•   Calcium; and

•   Bicarbonate.

These important minerals are involved in several metabolic processes, all of which are essential to overall health.

An electrolyte imbalance can come with serious consequences, including muscle weakness, confusion, and fatigue.

Benefits

Some of the potential benefits and functions in the body include:

•   Regulating fluid balance;

•   Promoting nerve and muscle function;

•   Supporting heart health;

•   Improving bone strength; and

•   Maintaining brain health.

Some Causes of Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolyte levels in the blood are closely regulated by the body to help keep them in balance. However, in some cases, electrolytes can increase or decrease to levels above or below normal, which can cause an electrolyte imbalance.

Several factors and conditions can disrupt electrolyte levels, which can have harmful effects on health.

A few common causes of low electrolytes include:

•   Dehydration;

•   Fluid loss caused by excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting;

•   Eating disorders;

•   Poor diet;

•   Kidney disease;

•   Severe burns;

•   Congestive heart failure; and

•   Certain medications, such as water pills or laxatives.

Electrolyte Imbalance Symptoms

Symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance can vary based on the severity, the specific minerals that are affected, and whether your levels are too high or too low. While a mild imbalance may not cause any symptoms, severe cases can have serious side effects and may even be fatal in some cases.

Common symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance may include:

•   Irregular heartbeat;

•   Confusion;

•   Fatigue;

•   Muscle weakness;

•   Headaches;

•   Numbness;

•   Stomach pain;

•   Convulsions;

•   Constipation;

•   Frequent urination;

•   Dry mouth;

•   Mood changes;

•   Increased thirst;

•   Vomiting; and

•   Loss of appetite.

Keeping Electrolytes in Check

One of the simplest and most effective methods for getting sufficient electrolytes is to follow a healthy diet and eat plenty of foods with electrolytes, such as fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, and seeds.

Not only are these foods rich in natural electrolytes, but they also provide several other important nutrients that your body needs, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

Here are a few good choices of electrolyte food sources:

Calcium Sources: yogurt, kefir, cheese, canned sardines, leafy greens, and almonds.

Sodium Sources: cottage cheese, salt, pickles, and olives.

Phosphorus Sources: meat, fish, poultry, dairy, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

Magnesium Sources: nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, avocados, whole grains, and beans.

Potassium Sources: bananas, potatoes, spinach, lentils, beans, beets, dried fruit, and coconut water.

Chloride Sources: table salt, seaweed, tomatoes, celery, and olives.

Electrolyte Supplements

In addition to enjoying a variety of healthy foods, some people also choose to use supplements, such as electrolyte drinks or electrolyte powder, to help boost their intake of these important minerals.

For healthy adults, consuming supplements or drinks with electrolytes is not typically necessary, as most people can meet their needs by following a healthy diet rich in nutritious whole foods. In some cases, however, the use of products like electrolyte powders can be beneficial.

Athletes, for example, may opt to use sports drinks that contain electrolytes in water to help balance their levels after long bouts of physical activity. Consuming water with electrolytes can also be beneficial to replenish losses of important minerals caused by fluid loss due to diarrhea or vomiting.

However, overuse of these supplements can also contribute to high levels of these key minerals, which can be just as dangerous as deficiencies. Therefore, it’s best to talk to your practitioner, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Risks and Side Effects

Although most people can meet their needs for these key minerals through healthy food sources, some groups need to be especially mindful of their intake to prevent adverse effects on health.

If you’re taking medications like diuretics or laxatives or have any health conditions like kidney problems or congestive heart failure, your doctor should monitor your electrolyte levels carefully to avoid an imbalance.

Those following a ketogenic diet should also be mindful of their intake. This is because ketosis can cause increased urination, which causes certain nutrients to be flushed out of the body more quickly.

Ensuring that you get enough keto electrolytes can help minimize symptoms of keto flu, such as headaches, fatigue, and changes in mood.

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. Check out the website at www.doctorlo.com.

The office is located at 7310 Grove Road #107, Frederick, MD. Check out the website at www.doctorlo.com.

by Kristen Bodmer
Fall is here, leaves are changing colors and crisp breezes are blowing. We are looking forward to Colorfest, our Yard Sale, Thanksgiving! We would love for you to come join us as we get to spend time together laughing and playing games and sharing fellowship.

October is full of activities. Take the opportunity to take a look at the calendar of events we have scheduled. You can find our calendar on the website at thurmontseniorcenter.org, on Facebook, or just come in to pick one up. Just a quick reminder that because of Colorfest, we will not be having the fundraiser and bake sale at Roy Rogers this month. Carol and Nancy will be busy with our annual yard sale that week. The yard sale will be on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. We hope to see you there.

We are so proud to announce that Jody Eyler of Thurmont was inducted into the Maryland Senior Citizen Hall of Fame. We are so happy that she has been recognized for all that she does for this community. Along with volunteering at the Grange and the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, she is an outstanding volunteer here at the Thurmont Senior Center. She works in the kitchen, drives people to the store or appointments—really, she just steps in whenever she can. Jody, we are so proud of you!

September was a fun-filled month.  We had two exciting bingos. We stretched and exercised. We played Farkle, Hand and Foot, Pinochle and Poker. We laughed and laughed.  We also had coffee, tea, and goodies galore. You just never know how much fun you can have. We would love for you to join us for some fun and fellowship.

We hold a free balance and strength exercise session daily, on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, beginning at 11:00 a.m. We play Pinochle on Tuesday, Bunko on the second Thursday of the month, and Farkle on the fourth Thursday of the month. We also play Bingo every first and third Wednesday of the month. If a month has a fifth Wednesday, we have a Special Bingo. It is always a fun time, full of enjoyment and special homemade treats for halftime. I can’t forget to mention our coffee. We are told it’s the best, so come in and have a cup with us.

Friday’s, we have Zumba. We also offer Poker and 500. Just to let you know, we now have a whole corner dedicated to exercise. We have two treadmills, a stair climber, and a recumbent bicycle for use during our hours, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There is no charge to use this equipment.

Just a reminder that some activities may have a minimal cost, but to join the center is free.

We really love having the community use the center. Check out the YMCA’s Y on the Fly. They will be having some classes in the evenings here. We are very excited for this partnership.

Come out and have a delicious lunch with us, served every day at noon. The meals are $6.00 each. We would love to share a meal with you.  Please call the day before to sign up for lunch. Menus can be found at the center, on Facebook, and on our website at thurmontseniorcenter.org.

As you know, we get our lunches from restaurants in town. We do everything possible to keep our costs down, and these restaurants continually work with us to make that happen. We have served so many lunches this past year, and, because of this partnership, we were able to put $35,000 back into the restaurants.  We love each restaurant: Bollinger’s, Fratelli’s, Mountain Gate, Rocky’s, and Kountry Kitchen. Thank you for your continued support.

As a reminder with COVID, flu, and cold season upon us, if you have symptoms or are not feeling well, please stay home. We have some COVID tests at the center if you need one. We want to keep everyone as healthy as we can. We will hold a Flu Clinic on Mondy, October 15, from  11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The Thurmont Senior Center is available to rent for different activities as well, like perhaps a baby shower, a birthday party, or a bridal shower.

Don’t forget to call the center or check online to get an updated calendar for our lunches and activities for the next month, and check out the Community Calendar in this issue for event dates and times. We always have fun things planned, and we would love to have you come out and join us.

As always, if you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us at 301-271-7911.

Jeff Yocum

Prologue

Observations from the Woodpile” is a collection of essays bundled together and given as a birthday present for my wife, Nancy, in 1997. Twenty-seven years have passed since the collection was given. The two main subjects of the essays, my sons Justus and Jacob, have grown into men with families of their own.

I’ve often wondered if my kids had been birds in a nest, which one would have been pitched over the side by the others? Nature shows on television tell us that it helps the species because the weaker siblings don’t live long enough to breed. I think human siblings do it to convince the parents not to have more kids. I know I’m convinced.

Rummaging around in the barn, the boys found an old two-man saw I had bought several years ago. They brought it to me, eager to give it a try. I had my doubts but agreed. I showed them how to pull the saw through the wood and rest as the other fellow pulled it back. That keeps the saw from binding. 

After some safety tips, I let them go at it. I was careful to watch them, more out of curiosity as to how long it would take before they were in a fight than for fear that they would get hurt. I thought after the saw bound a few times from one of them trying to push, they’d end up rolling on the ground and I’d have to separate them.

I have to admit, they sure fooled me. They got the hang of working a two-man saw after just a couple cuts. Before long, they had cut off the end of every log that stuck out of the stack. Sensing that I had stumbled across something, I built them a sawbuck and began saving logs eight to ten inches in diameter for them to cut. I let them use the saw only after we had split some wood. (That way the sawing was still viewed as a privilege).

The following September, our little town put on its annual community show. One of the attractions was a sawing contest for different age groups. The boys entered and actually won the blue ribbon for the under-twelve age group. Don’t you know, I’ve used that little story to show them what they can do when they cooperate.

Shopping yard sales during October 9-13?
Check out our Yard Sale Guide, so you don’t miss the best bargains and treasures around.

Multi-Family/Estate Sale

October 10-13: Multi-Family/Estate Yard Sale (rain or shine): 8 a.m.-6 p.m., 13731 Hillside Avenue, Thurmont. Household & Vintage Items & Many Assorted Box Lots. Come & Negotiate A Fair Price — Everything Must Go.

Yard Sale

October 9-11: Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-3 p.m., 14507 Holstein Court, Thurmont.

Apples Church Yard Sale

October 10-12: Yard Sale: 7908 Apples Church Road, Thurmont. Tons of good stuff for sale.

Graceham Moravian Yard Sale

October 10-12: Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Graceham Moravian Church, 8231A Rocky Ridge Road, Thurmont.

Harriet Chapel Giant Yard Sale

October 10-12: Giant Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Harriet Chapel, 12625 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont. Great items and great prices.

Legacy Livestock Flea Market

October 12: Flea Market: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 137 Emmitsburg Road, Thurmont.

Ridgefest

October 11-13: Flea Market Vendors: (Oct. 11-12) 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; (Oct. 13) 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Mt. Tabor Church Park, 13616 Motter Station Road, Rocky Ridge.

Estate Yard Sale

October 10-12: Estate Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-until, 3 Ironmaster Drive, Thurmont. Jewelry (all types), crafts, ceramics, and Christmas decorations.

Weller UMC Yard Sale

October 9-10: Yard Sale (rain or shine): 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Weller UMC, 101 N. Altamont Street, Thurmont.

St. John’s Estate Yard Sale

October 10-12: Estate Yard Sale (rain or shine): 7:30 a.m., St. John’s Lutheran Church, 8619 Blacks Mill Road, Thurmont. All proceeds benefit building fund/window project.

St. Anthony’s Shrine Yard Sale

October 10-13: Yard Sale: 7 a.m.-2 p.m., St. Anthony’s Shrine, Emmitsburg. Clothes, shoes, household items, and lots of good stuff.

Albert’s Yard Sale

October 12: Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Benefits St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 17015 Sabillasville Road, Sabillasville. Something for everyone.

by Mitchell Tester, College Student

We all think of Labor Day as getting a day off work on the first Monday of September every year, but what does it really mean?

The first Labor Day occurred on September 5, 1882, in New York City. On that day, 10,000 workers took unpaid time to march from City Hall to Union Square, starting the tradition of Labor Day parades. This was done to celebrate the achievements of American workers and their ability to strive for greatness and hard work. Although the first technical celebration of Labor Day was in 1882 in New York City, it was actually Oregon that became the first state to recognize Labor Day. In 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed it into law as a federal holiday. 

It is an interesting tale as to who first proposed the holiday for workers. Although, two men are most likely responsible for the founder of Labor Day.

The first man, Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and co-founder of American Federation of Labor, was said to suggest that we should have a day for celebrating the laboring class and to honor those “who from rude nature have delved and carved all the grandeur we behold.” (dol.gov).

Recent research, though, leads us to the idea that a man by the name of Matthew Maguire, secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists, proposed the idea for the holiday in 1882 as the secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York.

At any rate, though, no matter who we have to thank for the national holiday, we should all learn to respect and appreciate the working class of America, not only on Labor Day but every day, for it is the working class who built America.

Lion Ruth Heaney

Heroes. They are here in the Catoctin High Student Government Association and Unified Generation Club. Together, these clubs hosted an event, netting $5,000 to benefit the Special Olympics of Maryland. 

There are dogs and people who work together to perform heroic acts. One example is Trakr, a German Shepherd, and his handler. Together, they located the last survivor of the 9/11 attack. According to www.firerescue1.com, more than 300 dogs were used in the 9/11 rescue efforts. Toby, a Golden Retriever, kept a Maryland woman from losing consciousness when an apple got lodged in her throat. The American Kennel Association lists Toby as one of the 10 real-life tales of heroic dogs.

Then, there is Anita, a Golden Retriever, who is a Hero Dog to Joe. Joe is a Veteran four-year Marine Corp magazine gunner and a former firefighter in Montgomery County. Anita and Joe came together through Hero Dog, Inc., a Maryland 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Their mission is to improve “…the quality of life of our nation’s heroes …” and to enhance “… the services of community organizations by placing assistance dogs with customized training and lifetime support.” Anita is a hero to Joe. Good days are good, but bad days can also become good days as Anita allows Joe to go out and do the things he wants to do.

Everyone is invited to meet Joe and Anita at the Thurmont Lions Club meeting on September 12. This is a chance to sit back and watch as Joe explains and demonstrates the role of Anita in his life. The special bond between Joe and Anita is heartwarming.

There are other heroes, past and present. There is the first-known female firefighter, Molly Williams, “who took her place with the men on drag-ropes during the blizzard of 1818.” According to www.firerescue1.com, it is a reminder that people from all walks of life—Army Special Forces, Marine and Vietnam Veterans, volunteer firefighters, a WTC maintenance worker, NYPD, a president of a Medical Device company—were heroes on that fateful day.

There are firefighters and other personnel away from their families for unknown periods of time as they battle the Park Fire. It began on July 25, 2024, near Chico, California, and is still affecting lives in four different California counties.

Save September 25th for Chip Jewell, an accomplished man, active in Frederick County fire/rescue service. He served on the command staff for the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. Mr. Jewell will dress in past firefighter’s uniforms and share his knowledge from his 2022 book History of Fire Companies in Frederick County, Maryland. This is an evening for the family.

Both these events are free and open to the public at the St. John’s Lutheran Church, located at 15 N. Main Street in Thurmont.

Come join the fun at 6:30 p.m. Meet Joe, Anita, and Chip Jewell—heroes in Maryland!

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


Understanding Life Insurance

What You Need To Know

Life insurance is one of those financial tools that you’ve heard of and know you probably need but aren’t sure where to start. It’s easy to put off or ignore, but having the right life insurance policy can make a world of difference for your family in a time of need. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of life insurance, explain the differences between term life insurance and whole life insurance, recommend how much coverage the average family should have, and help you determine whether you even need life insurance.

What Is Life Insurance?

At its core, life insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company. In exchange for regular payments (known as premiums), the insurance company promises to pay a lump sum, called a death benefit, to your beneficiaries if you pass away during the term of the policy. This money can help cover funeral costs, pay off debts, replace lost income, or support your family’s future needs, such as funding your children’s education.

Term Life Insurance vs. Whole Life Insurance

When shopping for life insurance, you’ll likely encounter two main types: term life insurance and whole life insurance. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for making the right choice for your situation.

1. Term Life Insurance

Term life insurance is the simplest and often the most affordable type of life insurance. As the name suggests, this policy covers you for a specific term or period—usually between 10 and 30 years. If you pass away during this period, your beneficiaries receive the death benefit. If you outlive the term, the policy expires, and no benefit is paid.

Pros of Term Life Insurance

Affordability: Term life insurance generally has lower premiums, making it an attractive option for families on a budget.

Simplicity: The policies are straightforward, with no complicated investment components or hidden fees.

Flexibility: You can choose a term that aligns with your financial obligations, such as until your mortgage is paid off or your children are financially independent.

Cons of Term Life Insurance

•  Temporary Coverage: Once the term ends, you no longer have coverage unless you renew or purchase a new policy, which can be more expensive as you age.

•  No Cash Value: Term life insurance does not accumulate cash value, so if you don’t pass away during the term, you won’t see any return on your premiums.

2. Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance, on the other hand, is a type of permanent life insurance. It covers you for your entire life, as long as you continue to pay the premiums. In addition to the death benefit, whole life insurance includes a savings component, known as the cash value, which grows over time. This cash value can be borrowed against or withdrawn, although doing so may reduce the death benefit.

Pros of Whole Life Insurance

•  Lifelong Coverage: As long as you pay your premiums, your beneficiaries will receive a death benefit, regardless of when you pass away.

•  Cash Value: The policy accumulates cash value over time, which you can access while you’re still alive.

•  Fixed Premiums: Your premium payments generally remain the same throughout the life of the policy.

Cons of Whole Life Insurance

•  Higher Cost: Whole life insurance is significantly more expensive than term life insurance. The higher premiums can strain a family’s budget, especially if you’re paying for coverage you don’t really need.

•  Complexity: The policies are more complicated, with fees, penalties for withdrawing cash value, and often lower returns on the cash value compared to other investments.

•  Overselling as an Investment: Whole life insurance is often marketed as a good investment, but it typically doesn’t deliver the best returns compared to more straightforward investment vehicles.

How Much Life Insurance Does the Average Family Need?

Determining how much life insurance you need depends on your specific circumstances. A common rule of thumb is to have coverage that is 7 to 10 times your annual income. For example, if you earn $50,000 per year, you should consider a policy that provides $350,000 to $500,000 in coverage.

However, this is just a starting point. You should also consider:

•  Outstanding Debts: Factor in your mortgage, car loans, credit card balances, and other debts that your family would need to pay off.

•  Income Replacement: Calculate how many years your family would need to replace your income to maintain their standard of living.

•  Future Expenses: Think about future costs, such as college tuition for your children or your spouse’s retirement.

•  Funeral Expenses: The average funeral can cost between $7,000 and $10,000, so it’s essential to include this in your calculations.

Who Needs Life Insurance?

Life insurance is not one-size-fits-all, and not everyone needs a policy. Here are some guidelines to help you decide whether life insurance is right for you.

You Need Life Insurance If…

•   You Have Dependents: If you have a spouse, children, or other family members who rely on your income, life insurance is crucial to ensure they are financially secure if something happens to you.

•   You Have Significant Debt: If you have a mortgage, car loan, or other debts, life insurance can prevent your family from being burdened with these payments.

•   You Want to Leave a Legacy: Life insurance can be a way to leave an inheritance or charitable donation, even if you don’t have substantial assets.

You May Not Need Life Insurance If…

•   You’re Single with No Dependents: If no one depends on your income and you have enough savings to cover your funeral expenses, life insurance may not be necessary.

•   You’re Financially Independent: If your savings, investments, and other assets are sufficient to cover your family’s needs, life insurance may not be essential.

•   You’re Retired with a Spouse Who Can Support Themselves: If your spouse has enough income or assets to live comfortably without your financial support, life insurance might not be needed.

Beware of the Sales Pitch

It’s important to be cautious when shopping for life insurance, especially if you’re considering whole life insurance. Insurance agents may push whole life policies because they earn higher commissions on them, but these policies aren’t always the best choice for everyone. The idea of having lifelong coverage and a built-in savings component can sound too good to be true—and, in many cases, it is.

Conclusion

Life insurance is a vital part of financial planning. Understanding the differences between term and whole life insurance, assessing your family’s needs, and making informed decisions can provide peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be protected. Before signing on the dotted line, make sure the policy you choose truly meets your needs—without stretching your budget or buying into promises that don’t deliver.

Jeff Yocum

Prologue

Observations from the Woodpile” is a collection of essays bundled together and given as a birthday present for my wife, Nancy, in 1997. Twenty-seven years have passed since the collection was given. The two main subjects of the essays, my sons Justus and Jacob, have grown into men with families of their own.

Rising Water

Along about the second week in January 1996, we had a blizzard that dumped about three feet of snow on us. You could barely tell where the wood was. The boys and I had nearly finished the woodpile and felt pretty good about our industriousness, but the snow was just too deep to do any more cutting. Besides, we had our hands full just digging out.

Despite all the work the snow caused, there was considerable satisfaction in the scenic and acoustic quality of the snow. That much snow swallows all other sounds so well that there’s nothing left but your own labored breath and thoughts.

After a few days, the roads were clear enough to travel and enough paths had been blazed that life was returning to normal. The whole family had spent evenings together shoveling snow off the roofs of the barn and the house, out of the drive and walks. It was a good stretch of “quality time” with the kids. As it turned out, we needn’t have bothered.

During the afternoon of January 18, a weather front with heavy, warm rain moved into the whole snowbound region. The rain fell, melting the snow, and all the water rushed into the creeks and rivers. The following day, I received a call at work from my daughter. She had been released from school early because of the potential for flooding in the area. Her voice was stressed as she described the scene from our kitchen window. 

The little creek (Owens Creek) next to us had suddenly grown into a river. It had risen enough to make an island of the covered bridge perched upon its abutments. I left for home immediately.

The drive home was filled with visions of disaster and mayhem. I tried to remember the exact wording of my flood insurance. Then it dawned on me that the cut and spit wood was all stacked less than twenty-five yards from the creek. I had one vision after that: nearly five cords of firewood bobbing along for miles.

I reached home just as the water crested. It was impressive, but not to the point of real danger. The stacks of wood were surrounded by water, but it wasn’t deep enough to move them. A couple of hours later, the water receded.

The evening news showed scenes from all over the region of the destruction and damage. I thought about my fixation on the possible loss of all that wood. It could have all been replaced for less than $600. I felt a little embarrassed by my concern.

However, after thinking about it, I realized that there was something else about the wood that concerned me more. The thought of losing all the time and effort the boys and I had invested really bothered me. Justus and Jacob had worked more like men than the boys they were, and they were proud of their achievements. I was proud of them.

I no longer use the field next to the creek as the wood lot. I’m a little more protective of my investments.

Hoof and Mouth Disease Hits Local Farm

In the fall of 1908, the State of Maryland started killing cattle in Frederick and Carroll counties in an effort to protect residents from falling ill.

Hoof and mouth disease first appeared on H. M. Kneller’s farm in Lineboro, where it was reported that his entire herd was affected. It is an infectious and sometimes fatal disease that attacks cloven-hoofed animals. It causes a high fever that lasts for days and forms blisters in the animal’s mouth and near the hoofs. If the blisters near the hoofs rupture, it may cause lameness.

“The meat of the infected animals, it is said, is not particularly dangerous as food for mankind, although it is by no means fit to eat; but the milk from infected cows is dangerous, and the disease may be spread to human beings through butter or cheese as well,” the Frederick News reported.

The cause of the outbreak was traced to a single cow that arrived among a railcar full of cattle from Buffalo, New York.

“To stamp out this disease, which it is said attacks animals only having cloven hoofs, the U. S. and State officials have taken every precaution, quarantining the farm and entire state,” the Catoctin Clarion reported.

The State of Maryland, in consultation with the federal government, instituted a strict quarantine for the farm. The animals were limited in their movements and even the residents of the farm faced “severe restrictions,” according to the Frederick News. Susceptible animals were not allowed to cross the state lines.

The initial belief was that all the animals on the Kneller Farm would need to be killed. However, as the outbreak seemed to be contained, it was decided that only the cattle and hogs would need to be killed.

This did not sit well among the local farmers, who argued that the animals could recover from the disease. However, the government argued that while that was the case, it would also require that the state stay in quarantine for six months or more until it was certain that all the infected animals had recovered and there were no new cases.

Then, another problem arose, when infected cattle were found on a nearby farm owned by W. L. Wentz. Six of his seven cattle were infected. Because of the nearness of the Kneller Farm, it was initially thought that one of Kneller’s cattle was the cause, but it was determined that another animal on the train from Buffalo, perhaps the same one that infected Kneller’s cattle, had infected Wentz’s.

The government decided to proceed with the killing of Kneller’s infected animals. It had to be delayed, though, because Dr. F. H. Mackie, the state veterinarian, couldn’t find anyone local who was willing to dig the six-foot-deep pit that was needed. The locals did not support the government’s decision to kill all the animals. Mackie had to hire a contractor from Pennsylvania to come in and dig the pit.

Mackie then oversaw the killing and burial of 24 cattle and 52 hogs. About 50 area farmers gathered on the county road that ran next to the farm and about 100 yards from the burial pit, which was about 10 feet by 40 feet and 7 feet deep.

“The killing began at 1 and was finished at 5 o’clock. The hogs were thrown on top of the cattle in the pit and a thick layer of quick lime spread over the carcasses. The hole was filled, then earth being piled up in a mound,” The Baltimore Sun reported.

Although the chickens weren’t killed, they all had to be dipped in a disinfecting solution. The barn, barnyard, and hog pen were also all thoroughly disinfected.

“The Kneller farm will probably be quarantined until every trace of the disease is eradicated by disinfection,” according to The Sun.

The quarantine was eventually lifted near Christmas, just in time for the holidays. The Sun reported, “The effect of the quarantine is especially noticeable in Washington by the scarcity of veal, very little being on the market. What there is available is said to be bringing high prices.”

Although Kneller was partially responsible for the high prices, he didn’t benefit from them. He was reimbursed $1,300.83 for the lost livestock ($805.20 for the 24 cattle and $495.03 for the 52 hogs). The State of Maryland paid one-third of the cost, and the United States Department of Agriculture paid the other two-thirds.


Photo shows the effect of Hoof and Mouth disease on an animal’s mouth.

As we learned last month, the Sun and stars alike are fascinating celestial objects. They produce the energy that allows us to exist, while varying greatly in size while doing so. To understand stars is to understand the lives that they lead. I will be breaking stars into two categories. First, I will lay out the life the Sun will have and stars similar to it, which will be denoted by “M8-.”

This means that any star from 0.8 of the Sun’s mass (has to be larger than 0.8 of the Suns mass; any smaller star dies before it gets the chance to live, becoming a brown dwarf) to eight times the mass of the Sun will be discussed first, denoted by “M8-”. While the big stars are anything that is bigger than eight times the mass of the Sun, which will be denoted by “M8+.” M8+ and M8- stars live much of their lives the same in the beginning phase, although, much later in life is when they differ. Let us discuss the smaller stars, M8-.

M8- stars, such as our Sun, start life as any other star, in an interstellar cloud. This interstellar cloud eventually starts to grow desnser. These dense clumps are usually caused by disturbances in the clouds from neighboring clouds, exploding stars, and other celestial events or objects. Pushing the material close enough till it is caught by neighboring materials’ gravitational pull. To understand it better, I think of how a rolling snowball will continue to collect snow, becoming larger and larger as it rolls down a hill. This gas clump begins to collapse due to the gravitational pull of the collecting material. The dense clump is then turned into a protostar when it grows big enough, beginning to rotate. The protostar then has bipolar outflows, one on each side of the magnetic poles, causing a clearing of most gas and dust around the infant star, which then goes into the T-Tauri phase. A star, like our own, uses its hydrogen to create helium through nuclear fusion. This particular type of nuclear fusion is what makes our star, the Sun, heat the Earth for as long as we are alive. After T-Tauri heats up enough, it starts its longest phase, the same phase our Sun is in, called the Main Sequence. Due to everything in our universe being temporary, an M8- star, like any other star, will run out of its supply hydrogen that is being fused into helium. While the M8- star tries to stay going, it then reaches for anywhere to use up the remaining hydrogen, which is not in the core anymore but in the layer surrounding the core. This causes the distinct bloating of a red giant. The M8- star can become 20 to 100 times bigger than our Sun due to the bloating of its layers. It is so big, in fact, that when this happens to the Sun (which it will in 5 billion or so years), it will reach far out to even Venus, possibly coming close to engulfing Earth. Scientists are actually still not sure if the Earth will be engulfed or if it will orbit dangerously close. No matter what the case, though, it is estimated that life on Earth will absolutely cease to exist in 5 billion years. The core of the red giant is still heating up, more than ever actually. The star is not in hydrostatic equilibrium as it once was in the main sequence phase; its core is now being compressed due to the lack of pressure against gravity, continuing to heat it up. After this, the M8- star then turns into a yellow giant. This is due to the depletion of hydrogen and its fusing of helium to keep it going. After its short yellow giant phase, it turns back into a red giant once more. The core is now reaching even greater temps from the increasing contraction. The red giant finally has no more hydrogen or helium left to fuse, and the star dies.

Due to the continuing contraction of the core, it ejects the outer layers of the star, leaving only what we call a white dwarf behind. In the blast, heavier elements are created such as carbon, which is an essential ingrediant for life. The white dwarf, now in hydrostatic equilibrium once more, is figuratively dead though, as alive as an asteroid in a sense. It is only luminous due to its residual heat from many years of nuclear fusion and past contraction of the core. The ejection of the outer layers creates a planetary nebula. This nebula can spread one light year across, and is the birth place of stars just like the one that just died.

The M8+ star’s life is much shorter due to it using up hydrogen much faster due to its increased temperature. Instead of the long-winded 10-billion-year cycle of the Sun, it spans a couple 100 million years, depending on the mass of the M8+ star, of course.

A M8+ star lives a similar life to any other star. Instead of a T-Tauri phase though, which is for stars of lower mass, high mass stars go through what is called a Herbig Ae/Be (HAeBe) phase.

Another important difference to note is that once a high-mass star leaves its main sequence, it goes straight into a yellow giant, while a M8- star goes from red giant, yellow giant, back to red giant before dying.

The M8+ star goes straight into the fusing of helium because of its increased temperature. After the depletion of its helium, it becomes a red giant, much larger than the red giants of M8- stars. Due to the increasing temperature, the star is able to fuse heavier elements than hydrogen and helium; this process is called nucleosynthesis. This occurs after it runs out of hydrogen and helium. The M8- star counterpart would turn into a white dwarf, surrounded by a planetary nebula, after running out of hydrogen and helium because it is not hot enough to fuse heavier elements, therefore, it dies. The M8+ fusing heavier elements causes it to be hotter and hotter. The core is then contracting more and more due to gravity and lack of hydrostatic equilibrium. The core becomes an iron core, iron being the heaviest element the star can fuse. As the inward contraction of gravity continues, the electrons and protons form a neutron core, and the star will go supernova due to its complete inability to support itself, blasting the heavier elements (and creating even heavier ones in the blast) into interstellar space in a catastrophic explosion.

M8+ on the smaller size will then be formed into a neutron star. This is formed due to the pressure in the core of the M8+ star, so much heat that it squishes electrons and protons into neutrons. Bigger M8+ stars will also go supernova, blasting even heavier elements into space. These larger supernovas form the infamous black holes, celestial objects with so much mass that even the speed of light cannot escape it, light being the fastest thing in the known universe.

As previously stated, planetary nebulas are the birthplace of stars. In fact, usually at the death of any star, it gives back most of what it took to form years ago as a protostar. M8- stars are known for being a large contributor of carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen, which are essential for life.

Supernovas are important as well. Due to their fusion of heavier elements, they allow for planets like Earth to be born. Heavy elements are created such as zinc, iron, silver, tin, gold, mercury, lead, platinum, and uranium through these celestial events.

These elements and other heavy ones are what create planets such as the Earth, and all of us here on Earth. You, me, and my German shepherd puppy, sitting in her bed next to me as I type this, is all thanks to the death of massive stars and smaller ones alike. We are created by what occurs in the universe. If stars such as our own and bigger stars did not die, we would not be here today.

This fact was what got me initially interested in the world of astronomy. It made me feel so much more connected to the world around me and above me. The transiency of stars, giving us the ingedients to be alive through their deaths, is the way for the universe to explore and learn about itself through us.

I hope this does not scare you to know everything in this universe is temporary but, instead, makes you want to explore it further.

After all, just like the Pink Floyd song, “Fat Old Sun,” speaks to us about reflection on moments passing, so does the Sun as it goes down and disappears, reminding us of the passing of time. Look up to remind yourself not to always look into the future or into the past, but to take time to be in the moment, even though it may be fleeting.

James Rada, Jr.

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

September 1924, 100 Years Ago

Dentist Leaves For Africa For Big Game Hunt

The dream of every hunter, from the boy who takes pot shots at squirrels to the man who hunts moose and bear, will soon be realized by Dr. Bernard Francis O’Toole, of Thurmont, Frederick county, who sailed Saturday from New York to hunt big game in Africa.

His trip will take him to the virtually unexplored parts of the Belgian Congo—to the Mountains of the Moon, along the mysterious Lualaba river, into the Iturea Forest, where the pygmies live. For a year or more, Dr. O’Toole will remain in the heart of the Dark Continent, collecting specimens of insects, mammals and birds..

                                – Hagerstown Morning Herald, September 15, 1924

Death Accidental, Verdict In Thurmont Investigation

A coroner’s jury which conducted an investigation into the death of Robert Wilhide, 14-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. William Wilhide, of Thurmont, who was found dead in the woods near Thurmont with a bullet wound in his breast, rendered a verdict of accidental death. The inquest was held this morning at 10 o’clock in the office of Justice Cadow at Thurmont.

Young Wilhide had been missing from his home since Saturday morning, when he shouldered his gun and informed his parents that he was going hunting in the adjacent mountains. Having made previous trips of this nature, consent was given and the lad went on his way.

…Opinions divided over the manner in which the boy met his death. Some seem to think that he met with foul play and others adhere to the theory that young Wilhide stumbled and the falling gun went off, the shot piercing his breast above the heart. The boy’s body was found four miles west of Thurmont..

                                – Frederick News, September 30, 1924

September 1949, 75 Years Ago

Progress Being Made in Forming New League

A delegation of the Emmitsburg Baseball Assn. met with other representatives of the proposed Mason-Dixon League Monday night in Westminster. Represented at the baseball caucus were Emmitsburg, Taneytown, McSherrystown, Westminster, Reisterstown, Frederick and Hanover. By-laws were drawn up, player limit set, registration deadline set and number of players on rosters determined.

A decision was arrived at on the player roster question when it was agreed to allow a manager to have 25 players listed during any one season. Under the proposed setup clubs can obtain players from any distance as well as the use of college boys. No club can use another player living within five miles of the town he is to play for unless that player is given permission or release by the manager. In case of any disputes over the eligibility of any players or protests, a three-man arbitration.                                 

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 2, 1949

Penn-Maryland Baseball League is Reorganized

Seven teams of the Penn-Maryland Baseball League repudiated the Ralph Coe regime Tuesday night at a meeting held in the Firemen’s Hall, and laid the groundwork for the reorganization of the circuit. Delegations were present from Taneytown, Thurmont, Littlestown, Hanover, McSherrystown, Blue Ridge Summit and Emmitsburg. The insurgent body stated hey were thoroughly disgusted with the present setup of the league and appointed Bernard Weaver, Littlestown, as temporary chairman of the group.

The insurrection was created by the Emmitsburg Baseball Association after it became riled when Ralph Coe, ex-president of the league, stripped the local team of all its victories, for no apparent reason. Emmitsburg called the meeting together.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 23, 1949

September 1974, 50 Years Ago

Council Discusses Garbage Problem

The garbage dump vs. sanitary landfill question was again discussed at the Emmitsburg Town Council meeting Monday night. Struggling with what this area will do with garbage and trash after September 30, the commissioners expressed concern as to what will happen to garbage if dumps are not established in the nearby area.

According to Charles Wetzel, major trash hauler locally, the new proposed sanitary landfill near Woodsboro which he is supposed to use starting October 1, does not look as if it will be ready by that date. In addition, he said that he did not know if he would be able to carry some items, such as large tree limbs and discarded appliances, to the new dump.

Town Council reviewed a letter which Wetzel has received from the Environmental Protection Agency Office in Philadelphia. The letter warned that all burning and use of the dump which Wetzel now operates must cease by the end of September.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 12, 1974

VHC Prepares For Fire Safety Week

Forty-two members attended the monthly meeting of the Vigilant Hose Company held

Tuesday evening, Sept. 10 with President James Fitzgerald presiding. Chief Eugene E. Myers reported that twelve calls were answered during the previous month, along with two service calls and one drill.

Crystals have been secured for the four walkie-talkies to be used by the fire place, 300 feet of 3 inch hose has been ordered for use on trucks 51 and 62. A new section has been added to the by-laws under Article V. It will be section V and states “15 members shall constitute a quorum at business meetings.”

Members voted to let the Emmitsburg Lions Clubs hold their meetings in the company’s meeting room each second and fourth Monday.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 19, 1974

September 1999, 25 Years Ago

Rosensteel Adds Outdoor Studio

A visit to Bob Rosensteel’s new outdoor studio is similar to a tour of movie scenery stages in miniature. Bob has transformed the backyard of his home at 110 DePaul Street into a wonderland of 30 various settings in which his clients may choose to be photographed.

There is a beach complete with sand and sea grasses; a water fountain cascading into a stone enclosed pond; a weather-beaten porch made from wood of old apple crates featuring an antique whiskey barrel and a milk container; a wagon axle from the 1800s; a graffiti-painted fence announcing the “Class of 2000”; a barn complete with straw piles and many other unique locales. Future plans include an old-fashioned gas station and a waterfront scene. The beach scene, fence, and old porch have proved favorites among the high school seniors while the fountain and pond create stunning backdrops for bridal pictures.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, September 1999

Mount Starts Accelerated Degree Program at Frederick Site

Adults who want to finish college now have an exciting new option. Mount St. Mary’s College, a leader in Maryland higher education for more than 190 years, is offering its first accelerated degree program for adult learners at a newly opened site in the 270 Technology Park next to FSK Mall in Frederick. The program is designed for adults, 25 or over, who have some previous college experience and want to complete their undergraduate degrees.

The first classes, leading to a B.S. degree in business, start the week of October 4. Classes meet once a week in the evening and run for either 5-week or 8-week sessions. The first two classes are “Principles of Marketing” and “Business & Society.”

                                    – The Emmitsburg Regional, Dispatch, September 1999

Maxine Troxell

With the upcoming Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, I wanted to find a winning recipe to share. This recipe was the Grand-Prize winner in the 1968 Pillsbury Bake-Off. Happy baking, and I hope to see your cake at the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show Bake Sale on September 6 at 7:30 p.m.

Nutty Graham Picnic Cake

Ingredients

Cake

2 cups All-Purpose Flour

1 cup (14 squares) finely crushed graham cracker

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup margarine or butter (melted)

1 tablespoon grated orange peel

1 cup chopped nuts

1 cup firmly packed brown sugar

½ cup sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon cinnamon

1 cup orange juice

3 eggs

Glaze

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon margarine or butter

¼ cup chopped nuts

5 teaspoons milk

¾ cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease and flour a 12-cup fluted tube pan or 10-inch tube pan. 

2. In a large bowl, combine all cake ingredients, except nuts; beat 3 minutes at medium speed. 

3. By hand, stir in 1 cup nuts. Pour batter into greased and floured pan.

4. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-60 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool upright in pan 15 minutes; invert onto serving plate. Cool 1 hour or until completely cooled.

5. In small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar, milk, and 1 tablespoon margarine; cook over low heat just until sugar is dissolved, stirring constantly.

6. Remove from heat. Stir in powdered sugar; blend until smooth. Drizzle over cake; sprinkle with ¼ cup nuts.