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The Emmitsburg Knights of Columbus presented a check for $400 to the Catoctin Pregnancy Center (CPC) in Emmitsburg as part of the Knights Aid and Assistance After Pregnancy program.
The check amount represents 20 percent matching after the Annual Fr. Didier Memorial Run, sponsored by the Emmitsburg Knights of Columbus.
Pictured are Howard Hagan and Melanie Carroll (Director CPC).
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Tom’s Creek UMC in Emmitsburg welcomed Pastor Mike Cantley (pictured right). Pastor Mike Cantley is “fired up” about the joy of Jesus! Mike began his pastoral appointment with Tom’s Creek UMC on July 1, and he is excited about what God will do through our community working together to share the goodness of Jesus’ life and Way.
Born in Louisiana and raised in Arkansas, Mike Cantley was a professional firefighter and an instructor with the Arkansas Fire Academy before getting “fired up” about Jesus and disciple formation with the local faith community. He served as a Christian Education and Families Minister in Arkansas, work that inspired his coming to Washington, D.C., to study International Relations at American University and theology next door at Wesley Theological Seminary. His fire department background cultivated a love for peace work and conflict response.
Mike became a pastor in 2010 while still in graduate school, long before ordination as an elder in the UMC. He served two consecutive years on delegations to Colombia, South America, with Christian Peacemaker Teams. Mike and his wife, Brooke, have three gifted young adult children: Jess, Noah, and Katie. Brooke has grown “a houseful of artistic hearts” and gracious encouragers, and she shares this ministry in many ways. The family inspires Mike’s own passion for art and for completing his music degree in classical guitar. The Cantley’s smallest family member is a little Maltipoo, named Rosie.
Thurmont Grange No. 409 was proud to present scholarships to three Catoctin High School 2023 graduates who will be pursuing their higher education goals. All scholarship recipients are exceptional students and very involved in community service, as well as many extracurricular activities. Tanner Seiss will be attending University of Maryland, Abby Moreland will be attending Wilson College, and Morgan Ridenour will be attending Hood College.
A donation was also made to the college fund of the grandchildren of Thurmont Grange members Bob and Carolyn Wiles, whose son, Dales Wiles, passed away unexpectedly last year.
Congratulations and best of luck to Tanner, Abby, Morgan, and all of our 2023 graduates.
Pictured from left are Niki Eyler (Scholarship Committee Chair), Addison Eyler (Committee member), Tanner Seiss, Morgan Ridenour, Abby Moreland, and Susan Crone (Committee member).
For the eighth consecutive year, the Town of Thurmont has been recognized as a Banner City/Town by the Maryland Municipal League. Thurmont Chief Administrative Officer Jim Humerick accepted this prestigious award at the Maryland Municipal League (MML) Summer Conference on June 27 in Ocean City.
Paula Chase Hyman, MML Director of Member Engagement, stated, “Congratulations to the 46 municipalities that received their 2023 Banner City/Town designation. Banner cities and towns are the League’s most engaged municipalities.”
Thurmont was recognized again based upon the following achievements during 2022 and 2023: Attended the 2022 Summer and Fall Conferences; Set up an exhibit on Municipal Main Street at the Summer Conference; Attended the Maryland Mayors Winter Conference; Attended and actively participated in Frederick County MML chapter’s events; Conducted a school visit to educate students of all ages on local government; Hosted the “If I Were Mayor” essay contest for fourth-grade students at Thurmont Elementary School and recognized the winners at a Town meeting; Town officials and staff are enrolled in and/or graduated from the Academy for Excellence in Local Government; Approved a Proclamation recognizing Municipal Government Works month in November and held an Open House at the Municipal Offices.
“I am very pleased and proud that we have once again achieved this recognition in MM L’s Banner City/Town program,” said Mayor John Kinnaird. “Our dedicated Town staff and my fellow elected colleagues will continue to work hard to provide the best and most efficient services to our residents, and maintain this important accreditation.”
The new Ritchie History Museum at Fort Ritchie celebrated its grand opening earlier this month with much fanfare and a number of notable visitors. Yumi Hogan, wife of former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, was among the first to see the new museum; her interest particularly of the sizable Korean War exhibit, created by Commander Ron Twentey of KWVA Chapter 312.
In addition to Mrs. Hogan, the offices of Congressman David Trone, Senator Chris Van Hollen, State Senator Paul Corderman, Delegates William Wivell and William Valentine, and several Washington County Commissioners. Even more moving were the numbers of families who had a direct connection to the historic Army Post. Several children of Ritchie Boys were in attendance and other Ritchie Veterans, spanning from those who closed Ritchie in 1998 to Ritchie Boy, Gideon Kantor, the 99-year-old Veteran who trained there during WWII.
Director Landon Grove and various museum volunteers estimate that approximately 150 visitors came out to the grand opening, which was highlighted by the launching of the museum’s cannon at exactly 12:30 p.m. The museum has been in the works for many years, and thanks, in part, to a number of generous monetary and artifact donations as well as several grants, the museum is now open at no cost to visitors, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Visitors to the museum can learn the history of the property, dating back to the Buena Vista Ice Company in the late 1800s to Fort Ritchie’s missions over a 70-year period. A substantial collection of WWII and Korean War memorabilia is on display. Grove is still seeking more Ritchie artifacts to continue to grow the exhibit, as there are many facets of the property that can be highlighted.
The new Ritchie History Museum’s grand opening in June.
Photo Courtesy of Fort Ritchie
Frederick Health, the largest healthcare provider in Frederick County, is pleased to announce an ongoing partnership with Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) that brings grief counseling to students within the education system.
Beginning in October of 2022, Frederick Health Hospice has served as the primary provider of one-on-one grief counseling sessions for students at all FCPS schools. If a student is grieving, they can be referred to the program by a teacher, a guidance counselor, or a parent or guardian. This service is free to FCPS students.
Everyone experiences grief differently, and grieving children and teens have unique communication styles. To help address the specific needs of school-aged children, a licensed, specially trained grief counselor, who is also fluent in Spanish, is made available to students to help guide and talk them through feelings of loss.
“We’ve known for years that there were many grieving children in Frederick County that we were just not reaching, whether due to transportation barriers, parental work schedules, or other challenges,” said Kaili Van Waveren, Bereavement Care Supervisor with Frederick Health Hospice.
Since launching this program, scores of students have benefited from hundreds of hours of free counseling and support.
“We are so grateful to finally meet this need in our community,” added Van Waveren.
Does all the technology you use every day frustrate you? Does the technology of the future make you want to put your head in the sand?
No more worries! The Thurmont Lions Club is hosting a free presentation by Kelly Schulz on Wednesday, July 26, at 6:30 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, located at 15 N. Church Street in Thurmont. The public is welcome.
Kelly Schulz is a woman of talent and energy. Prior to public service, Schulz “… put herself through college and worked as a server and bartender in the evenings and on weekends, yet always made time to serve on the school PTA and to volunteer with Brandon and Bradley’s sports teams.” Eventually, she become a partner in opening a small business, a cybersecurity firm. In 2015, Schulz was tapped by the former Governor Hogan and served seven years as the secretary of labor and secretary of commerce. She is now the chief executive officer of the Maryland Tech Council. Schulz resides in Frederick County with her husband, John Nowell
This event is open to all at no charge. It is chance to learn from an extremely knowledgeable person, who can answer questions about the present and the future in technology. Join the Thurmont Lions Club for this unique and relevant presentation.
Seton Center, Inc., a non-profit social service agency that provides a variety of programs and services to communities in Northern Frederick County, is pleased to announce the appointment of Deb Bisenieks as its new executive director.
Bisenieks brings over 10 years of experience in the social service field to the role, most recently serving as Director of Support Services/Physician Practice Manager at Brook Lane Health Services. She previously served in the United States Marine Corps, and holds a degree in Psychology.
“I am honored to join the team at Seton Center and look forward to working with the board, staff, and community to continue to provide essential services to our neighbors in Emmitsburg, Thurmont, and the surrounding area,” said Bisenieks. “I am passionate about helping others and believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. I am excited to be a part of Seton Center’s mission to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.”
“Deb is a highly experienced and accomplished leader,” said Sister Jane Graves, D.C., board chair of Seton Center. “She has a deep understanding of the challenges facing our community, and she is committed to making a difference. We are confident that she will be an outstanding leader for Seton Center.”
Seton Center, Inc is a non-profit, social service organization and thrift shop providing assistance and educational services to Northern Frederick County, Maryland. For information about specific programs, please visit SetonCenter.org.
Richard D. L. Fulton
Mount Saint Mary’s University (MSMU) has received a significant donation to be utilized in supporting the institution’s “Climb the Mount” initiative.
University President Timothy Trainor announced that Raphael Della Ratta, MSMU Class of 1992, had presented a “major gift” to fund the “Climb the Mount” initiative in support of the university’s mission.
Donna Klinger, executive director of Communications, Office of University Marketing & Communications, stated that Della Ratta is a member of the Mount’s Board of Trustees “and a long-time supporter of the liberal arts at the university.”
Trainor said, “The ‘Climb the Mount’ initiative recognizes that three intersecting areas of the undergraduate experience at the Mount accelerate students on the path to leading lives of significance in service to God and others,” adding, “The Mount community is deeply appreciative of Raphael Della Ratta’s generous gift that will provide support for students in the ascent along their educational journey at the university.”
Klinger reported that, under the “Climb the Mount” initiative, students are led through a self-discovery process as part of the integrated core-curriculum. “Next, students are introduced to avenues to leave campus in order to interact with the world beyond Emmitsburg. Finally, the university assists students in securing external academic opportunities that will launch them to purpose-driven lives and successful careers.”
Dean of the College of Liberal Arts Bryan Zygmont stated, “Raphael Della Ratta’s transformational gift is meant to achieve three strategic initiatives to strengthen our core curriculum through an investment in the First-Year Symposium, increase support to our marvelous Study Abroad programing, and assist the Office of Competitive Fellowships in providing aid to our ambitious students to secure world-class fellowships, grants, and internships.”
“Together, these three programs impact each student we teach at the Mount,” Zygmont said.
Della Ratta said, “My intent is for the ‘Climb the Mount’ initiative’s impact to be both immediate and enduring,” adding, “It will transform the lives of students, both during their time at the Mount and long after they leave campus.”
Klinger stated that Della Ratta, president of Commercial Management Company, graduated from the Mount in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in philosophy. “He recalls the two-semester freshman seminar course as a great introduction to ‘what was expected of new students in the classroom of a liberal arts college.’”
Thirty years later, Della Ratta said he still remembers the pedagogical experience and vocations and meaningful work units as providing great insights, further stating, “The working unit urged students to consider what makes for a meaningful career after graduation.”
The “Know Yourself” segment of the “Climb the Mount” initiative focuses on ensuring that the instruction of First-Year Symposium classes is provided by full-time professors who are equipped to impact students’ minds, hearts, and lives from within the classroom.
The Mount is recruiting current faculty members with a proven record of excellence in instruction to also teach this foundational course. In addition, the university is hiring two early-career faculty members who will focus on teaching sections of First-Year Symposium and other core curriculum courses that align with their areas of academic interest. The First-Year Symposium program is led by Edward Egan, who also directs the Pre-Law Program.
The other two components of the “Climb the Mount” initiative, titled “Know Your World” and “Change Our World,” are not all-encompassing like the core curriculum improvements, but their impact on those who participate is limitless.
“Know Your World” seeks to enhance the Mount’s Study Abroad Program by further diversifying the locations of the university’s international offerings, making such programs more affordable and increasing administrative support for the program. These efforts would allow for more students to participate, and holistically realize their place in the world. The Mount’s study abroad program is directed by the chair of the Department of Political Science, Amanda Krause.
The “Change Our World” section of the “Climb the Mount” initiative provides resources for the Office of Competitive Fellowships to support students in pursuing prestigious external fellowships, internships, and grants. The program was compiled by the professor of World Languages and Cultures, Christine Blackshaw.
Climb the Mount donor Raphael Della Ratta (front, center) with Fellowship students at an end-of-year celebration.
Photo by Jacob Chielli, Courtesy of MSMU
The Thurmont Lions Club held “Education Night” on April 26, 2023, to recognize the outstanding achievements of teachers and students in the Catoctin Feeder area.
Scholarships were presented to four exemplary high school students who submitted stellar applications. Recipients of the scholarships were Michael LeGare, who received the four-year Vic Jagow Scholarship; Tanner Seiss, who received the Lynn Stuart Scholarship; Morgan Ridenour; and Joel Miller. The Lion and Jr. Lion Awards were also presented to students who accrued the most hours for dedicated service to the community. Addison Smith of Thurmont Middle School and Bethany Study of Catoctin High School received these awards. A certificate of recognition and a monetary gift was given to these committed students.
Each school in Frederick County Public Schools nominates an outstanding teacher to participate in the FCPS Teacher of the Year event. The nominated teacher from each FCPS Catoctin feeder school was recognized during the program. The nominees are: Even Felmet from Catoctin High School; Shari Stone from Emmitsburg Elementary School; Melissa Sweeney from Lewistown Elementary School; Sadie Wiles from Sabillasville Environmental Charter School; Brooke Claggett from Thurmont Elementary School; Sean McNally from Thurmont Middle School; and Rachel Hamscher from Thurmont Primary School. Highlights from their nomination letters were shared, which described their exceptional achievements; they each received a certificate and gift card.
School donations were also presented to the administrators of the schools in the Catoctin feeder area, including Mother Seton School. Each administrator shared how the donation would be put to good use in their respective schools. A reception was held at the end of the awards program for the honorees and their families.
The evening was a celebration and a tribute to all of these dedicated and inspiring students and educators!
Pictured from left are President Julie El-Taher, Thurmont Lions Club; Shari Stone, Emmitsburg Elementary School; Saide Wiles, Sabillasville Environmental Charter School; Brooke Claggett, Thurmont Elementary School; Evan Felmet, Catoctin High School; Rachel Hamscher, Thurmont Primary School; Melissa Sweeney, Lewistown Elementary School. Absent from the picture is Sean McNally, Thurmont Middle School.
Courtesy Photo
Annually, the Wednesday before Memorial Day, Scouts in our area get together and honor our fallen military by placing a flag at their gravestone. This year, Girl Scout Troop 37191, Cub Scout Pack 270, BSA Scouts Troops 270B/G, and Venturing Crew 270 honored our Veterans by placing flags in 12 local cemeteries.
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Kenny Hubbard has been a member of the Lewistown Ruritan Club for more than 54 years. Club President Frank Warner presented Kenny with an award from Ruritan Nation for special recognition for his years of service. During this time, Kenny has supported the Lewistown Ruritan Club in many ways, enabling them to be an active club in our neighborhood. He also helps with the club’s famous chicken BBQs, which is one of its major fundraisers.
Pictured from left are Kenny Hubbard and Frank Warner, Lewistown Ruritan President.
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Detectives from the Frederick County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit spoke at the June Meeting of the Lewistown Ruritan Club.
These dedicated detectives provided a wealth of information on the narcotic activities not only in Frederick County, but throughout the United States. Apparently, there are no easy solutions when it comes to American’s addiction crises. Overdose deaths of 100,000 lives in more than two years in a row occurs because of fentanyl poisoning.
The detectives displayed some of the narcotics that are widely used throughout the United States and mentioned that there is a huge evidence of cocaine in this area. They mentioned that the “layperson Naloxone (NARCAN) training course” at the local health department will teach you how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and how to administer the opioid reversal drug, Naloxone.
This was a very well-received presentation due to the nature of the subject and its presentation. The Ruritan recognizes the danger associated with the work these detectives and others do for the citizens of the United States and specifically here in Frederick County.
$6.9 Million Project Includes New Concrete Deck, Reinforced Support Beams
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration has completed a $6.9 million project, replacing the deck on the northbound US 15 bridge over MD 77 (West Main Street) and Hunting Creek in the Thurmont area of Frederick County. Concrete barriers separating the two traffic lanes have been removed and both lanes of northbound US 15 are now open.
“US 15 is a tremendously important connection for the community and the region, and we’re excited to deliver an improved span that will serve the area for many decades to come,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “We appreciate the county and local residents for their patience and collaboration during this important project.”
The project began in December 2021 and involved repairs to the steel beams that support the concrete bridge deck, as well as repairs to the supporting piers. While the bridge deck replacement is complete, some remaining work, such as painting, will be performed without interrupting traffic.
“This project demonstrates our commitment to keeping Maryland’s infrastructure in a state of good repair,” said State Highway Administrator Tim Smith. “US 15 is a critical corridor that serves thousands of motorists every day, whether it’s for the daily commuter or to move commercial goods.”
The primary contractor, Clearwater Construction Inc., of Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, completed the construction on the bridge, which was originally built in 1957. Crews worked on one lane at a time, which allowed northbound US 15 traffic to continue moving during construction.
The State Highway Administration works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for our crews, as well as our customers. Drivers need to stay alert, focus on driving, and look for reduced speed limits, as well as other driving pattern changes. Please drive like you work here and slow down in construction zones.
For a list of all major projects, go to the project portal or visit their home page at roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov.
Memorial Day is traditionally known as the official start of summer. The first Memorial Day was celebrated in 1865, known as Decoration Day, established to recognize the fallen soldiers of the Civil War. After World War II, the name was changed to Memorial Day to remember and honor those who have died while serving our country.
In 1971, The National Holiday Act moved Memorial Day to the third Monday of May to provide a three-day weekend. Today, many civic organizations, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS (American Veterans), The American Legion, and Knights of Columbus keep with tradition and celebrate Memorial Day on May 30.
Annually, the Thurmont American Legion Post 168, in conjunction with AMVETS Post 7, Voiture Locale 155 40/8 locomotive Chewy, and the Town of Thurmont, hosts a ceremony to include a guest speaker and a wreath laying to honor our military from each War/Conflict at Memorial Park. Memorial Day is about honoring our military that have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms
Girl Scout Troop 37191, Cub Scout Pack 270, BSA Scout Troops 270 B/G, Venturing Crew 270, and Christian Service Brigade provide the the flag ceremony, honoring this year’s Memorial Day Ceremony. Courtesy Photo
The 67th annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road in Thurmont, on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 8, 9, and 10, 2023. All events throughout the entire weekend are free.
There’s great news for Community Show bakers of all ages! Most baked products classes have an increase in their prize money, and classes have been added for both the Youth Department (ages 18 and under) and the Junior Department (ages 10 and under).
Entry of exhibits will take place in the gymnasium and agriculture department area on Thursday evening, September 7 and on Friday morning, September 8. Commercial exhibits and community organization displays will be set up throughout the facility all weekend.
This year’s Friday night (September 8) Opening Ceremonies will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium, with the 45th Annual Community Organizations Flag Ceremony, followed by the 2023-2024 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador announcement. The annual Baked Goods auction will begin immediately following the program at approximately 7:30 p.m. The Grand Champion and Reserve Champion cakes, pies, and breads will be sold at 8:00 p.m.
On Saturday, September 9, the Community Show is open to the public from 9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. In the Agriculture Center area, the Market Goat, Beef, Sheep, and Swine Show and Fitting & Showing Contest will start at 9:00 a.m.
The Pet Show’s free registration takes place in front of the school, with the competition starting at 10:30 a.m., for 12 Pet Show Classes.
On Saturday, September 9, the Thurmont Academy of Self Defense will provide martial arts demonstrations in the auxiliary gym, and the Linda Elower Studio of Dance and The Gospel Ridge Bluegrass Gospel Band will perform in the auditorium.
Mountain Gate Family Restaurant will cater and serve a Roast Turkey and Baked Ham Buffet on Saturday, September 9, from 3:00-6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria, to benefit the Thurmont Grange.
The 49th Annual Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters Market Goat, Beef, Sheep & Swine Sale will be held on Saturday night, September 9, at 7:00 p.m. in the Agriculture Center area. All buyers are welcome to attend and purchase animals, which are exhibited by 4-H and FFA members.
On Sunday, September 10, the Community Show is open to the public, from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Activities begin in the Agriculture Center with the Dairy Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Cattle Show. The Decorated Animal Contest begins at 11:00 a.m.
Mountain Gate Family Restaurant will be catering and serving a Fried Chicken & Pulled Pork BBQ Buffet on Sunday, September 10, in the cafeteria, to benefit the Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters.
Sunday afternoon activities in the Agriculture Center include the 38th Annual Log Sawing Contest, a Pedal Tractor Contest, and the 42nd Annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest near the softball field.
On both Saturday and Sunday, the Petting Zoo will be in the Agricultural area, while a sow with its piglets will be on display all weekend. There will also be face painting and pony rides.
Additional activities throughout the weekend include food trucks and food stands, the annual book sale, a Quilt & Afghan Show, and Thurmont area historical photos.
By early August, the Community Show booklets will be available in local businesses. All citizens of our Catoctin community are encouraged to enter exhibits for free to see what prize they may win and be a part of the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, the largest Community Show in the State of Maryland!
Departments include Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Fabric & Fiber Arts, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Fine Arts, Arts and Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department (Ages 10 and under), and Youth Department (Ages 11-18).
Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 10, from 3:00-5:30 p.m. Prize money will be mailed to the winners by November 15, 2023.
The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters, the Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board. The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show has been bringing our communities together since 1957!
Visit the website for detailed information: www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow.webs.com. View the advertisement on page 22.
In memory of their father, Wendric “Buddy” Moore, a long-time Lewistown Ruritan member, daughter Patty Goff (Lewistown Ruritan member) and her siblings refurbished the steps and banisters at the Lewistown Ruritan Pavilion, where the famous Lewistown Ruritan chicken BBQ is held. They also added a cement pad at the bottom of the refurbished steps, making it much safer to use.
The other siblings included Kevin Moore, Mike Moore, Joe Moore, Debbie Jones, Chuck Moore, Terry Kaas, and Cindy Kokoski.
Pictured from left are Chuck Moore and Patty Moore Goff.
Courtesy Photo
Early in 2022, the Vigilant Hose Company (VHC) formed a committee to replace its aging Aerial Unit, Tower 6, that has served this community faithfully for over 22 years. Shortly after forming the committee and receiving the approximate cost of the endeavor, President Tom Ward kicked off a fundraising campaign to help offset the estimated $1.6 million cost of the replacement Tower 6, due for delivery in October of 2023.
Today, VHC is proud to announce that when it accepts delivery of the new Tower 6, they will be able to push a button and transfer the funds necessary to fully cover the cost of its construction. “It goes without saying we are totally blown away with the outstanding and continued support of our little community, through donations and support for our many fundraising efforts.”
President Ward, Chief Brotherton, and the entire VHC Board want to express their sincere appreciation for all the hard work the membership and its auxiliary partners endured in achieving this astonishing goal.
“We were hopeful we could supplement a large portion of the cost to minimize the financing of Tower 6; but in our wildest dreams, we never imagined reaching our entire goal before delivery. It speaks volumes of how close-knit this community is and how dedicated they are in support of their own.”
Transit Services of Frederick County is thrilled to announce the launch of the new Adopt-a-Stop program with representatives from Fort Detrick USAG. The men and women of Fort Detrick embody service to the Frederick community and are demonstrating that today as the very first Adopt-a-Stop participants here in Frederick County.
With the Military Road at Fort Detrick bus shelter adopted by Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, or BOSS, at Fort Detrick, they are now a part of a statewide movement to sustain public transportation ridership, reduce pollution, and keep our community beautiful for years to come!
This bus shelter adoption is just one example of how working together as a community will help keep Frederick’s bus stops safer and help make cleanliness a priority for all residents and visitors.
If your organization is interested in adopting a bus stop or shelter, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/transit or call 301-600-2065.
The Town of Thurmont authorized retaining the law firms of Baron & Budd and Poole Law Group for the purpose of investigating legal options and remedies available to it due to the presence of “aqueous film forming foam” or “AFFF” and/or other products containing perfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) (including perfluorooctanoic acid (“PFOA” or “C8”), perfluorooctane sulfonate (“PFOS”), and other related compounds in the town’s water system.
Such investigation may include the initiation of a complaint in the Multi-District Litigation (MDL), currently pending in Charleston, South Carolina, related to this chemical.
Thurmont has and will continue to meet all federal and state guidelines for safe drinking water. It has and will continue to protect its citizens. This action is a prudent effort to proactively determine whether third parties have legal responsibility for the cost of treatment for its water system; the taxpayers and ratepayers should not bear this financial burden. The town will continue to exhaust all efforts to protect its citizens and exercise financial prudence in the process.
For further information on PFAS, visit www.epa.gov/pfas.
Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater recently announced the launch of a county-wide project to raise awareness of stroke signs and the action to take. More than 300 stroke patients are treated at Frederick Health Hospital each year. This project has been a year-long collaboration between Frederick County Government agencies, including Division of Fire & Rescue Services, Frederick County Health Department, Diversity and Inclusion Office, Communications and Public Engagement, Senior Services Division, and Frederick Health Hospital.
“Stroke Smart Frederick has the potential to create lasting and meaningful change in our community,” County Executive Fitzwater said. “Strokes have an enormous impact on Frederick County. Through this collaboration, more people will know the signs and symptoms of someone having a stroke, will know they need to BE FAST, and the safer and healthier our community will be.”
This project launch can be found on the website using FrederickCountyMD.gov/Stroke and includes information on the signs of a stroke and actions to take—call 911! A short video is available for people to view, along with a quiz to confirm that the key points have been learned. This resource expands access to information, allowing any community group to view and share it. Videos in Spanish will be added to the website soon. A PSA video has been created in English to relay the importance of this health issue from the local perspective. A Spanish version of the video is under development.
“For decades, stroke has consistently been one of the leading causes of death in Frederick County, as well as the leading cause of disability,” said Frederick County Health Officer Dr. Barbara Brookmyer. “We’re using local data and setting a goal, and I look forward to seeing our progress.”
“Frederick Health is honored to help make Frederick County the first Stroke Smart county in the nation,” said Heather Kirby, vice president of Integrated Care and Chief Population Health Officer at Frederick Health. “When it comes to a stroke, every second counts. That is why we’ve been working to expand our outreach efforts and partnerships to educate our community on the signs of a stroke. Frederick Health has an award-winning stroke care team and is here for you when it matters the most.”
“It’s an honor to be part of this public health collective impact initiative,” said Kathy Schey, director of the Frederick County Division of Aging and Independence (formerly known as the Senior Services Division).
The Lewistown Girl Scout Troops got together and planted flower gardens at Lewistown Elementary School on May 6. This allowed Scouts to complete a Journey and earn badges and to give back to their community. Most importantly, it helps support our ecosystem, giving pollinators a place to graze.
Pictured are Members of Daisy Troop 81224, Brownie Troop 81449, Junior Troop 37173, and Cadette Troop 37014. All Troops currently meet at Lewistown Elementary School for their meetings.
Venturing Crew 270 spent a rainy Saturday, May 13, supporting our ecosystem at the Thurmont Conservation & Sportsman’s Club, weeding, landscaping, designing, and planting perennial flowering plants to help our environment. How? Flowering plants give our pollinators something to nibble on to keep our ecosystem in balance.
Without pollinators, humans and wildlife would not have much to eat. Pollinators are responsible for assisting over 80 percent of the world’s flowering plants to reproduce.
Pictured are Members of Venturing Crew 270: M.Place, M.Whetzel, and L.Resch.
Kayla, Alex, Tyrone, and Tristin load up a customer’s vehicle with Country Boy brand pre-purchased mulch.
BSA Scout Troops B/G would like to say “Thank You” to the Thurmont and Emmitsburg communities for their support in the second annual mulch sale. A special “Thank You” to Nikki Eyler for allowing the use of Eyler Stables for the pick-up point for mulch.
This fundraiser allows the Scouts to earn money to help pay for a week at summer camp. The Troops are traveling to Raven Knob Scout Reservation in Mount Airy, North Carolina for summer camp.
On April 20, BSA Scout Troop B/G spent an evening doing spring cleaning along the Trolley Trail and Memorial Park in Thurmont, to include wearing waders and fishing trash out of the creek.
