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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Businesses Past…

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sugar’s underselling store

by Richard D. L. Fulton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What about the eggs?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

BusinessBriefs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming

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

The Dream Price Paid

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Joan Bittner Fry

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

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

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

Businesses Past…

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by Richard D. L. Fulton

The Distelfink Drive-In

The Distelfink Drive-in, which had been located at the intersection of Old Harrisburg Road and Shrivers Corner Road, just off Route 15 in Straban Township, near Gettysburg, thrived as basically a “roadside attraction” in the food category from 1954 until 2011.

Distelfink takes its name from the Pennsylvania Dutch for a finch, a symbol of good luck.

The Distelfink Drive-in was established in 1954, by Cecil D. Sandoe of Biglerville, who was only 21 years old at the time, according to the March 9, 2018, edition of The Evening Sun (eveningsun.com).

 Sandoe was born “at home” on November 25, 1933, to David E. and Virginia (Mary) Sandoe. He graduated from the Biglerville High School in 1952, where he had been active in football, basketball, and track. 

After graduating, Sandoe began his entrepreneurial career when he opened a small fruit market at the corner of Route 15 and Route 394, according to his obituary.

Sandoe was subsequently drafted into the Army on February 8, 1954, and served as a battalion mail clerk in the 254th field artillery during the Korean War, during which he was stationed in Germany. In his absence, his parents continued to operate his fruit stand.

After being discharged from the Army in 1956, Sandoe returned home and established Sandoe’s initially as a “farm market and a soft ice cream stand, with a variety of homemade sandwiches,” according to his obituary. 

The Gettysburg Times had reported in a story published on January 20, 2004, that Sandoe’s parents “mortgaged their home for collateral to build and equip the restaurant.”

The Distelfink Drive-in soon expanded its offerings to include home-cooked Dutch-baked ham and beef, ham and pork barbecue, pretzels, donuts, breads, rolls, pastries, cookies, and cakes.

In 1955, Sandoe hired his next-door neighbor, 15-year-old Patty Reinecker, who worked at Distelfink while she was in high school until she graduated and attended nursing school.

In December 1962, Sandoe and Reinecker married.

Together, the duo owned and operated the Distelfink Drive-in until they decided to sell the eatery in 1979, after Sandoe had sustained a heart attack, according to The Evening Sun (eveningsun.com).

The Evening Sun noted that among the Distelfink Drive-in’s regular clientele was Mamie Eisenhower, wife of Dwight D. Eisenhower, “to purchase her husband’s favorite bakery items, sticky buns, cream puffs, and twists with granulated sugar.”

During the years that the Sandoes operated the Distelfink, they had employed some 40 employees, with at least 12 employees on duty at any given time, according to The Gettysburg Times, who further noted that, typically, on Sundays, Distelfink’s staff “would make 33 gallons of donut (dough),” which produced “36 dozen (of donuts) to a gallon.”

In addition, The Gettysburg Times stated that Distelfink employees would sell as many as 5,000 soft pretzels on a Sunday.

Cecil Sandoe passed away on May 17, 2023, according to his obituary, which further stated he was survived by Patricia Sandoe, his wife of 60 years, and his two sons, David C. Sandoe and Mark E. Sandoe.

He was interred in a private Interment, with military honors provided by Adams County Allied Veterans, in the Biglerville Cemetery.

Several entrepreneurs purchased the Distelfink Drive-in succession after the Sandoes sold the operation. But, today, the vacant eatery and its signage still stand at the intersection of Old Harrisburg Road and Shrivers Corner Road, after the last purchaser had closed the operation’s doors sometime between 2011 and 2012. 

An effort was even made in the early 1980s to launch several spin-off Distelfinks, including one in Gettysburg, by the initial purchasers of the original Sandoes’ Distelfink.

In 2004, the 1.83-acre property, and the old Distelfink structures located on it, was listed at $450,000.

As late as 2023, there were rumors of renewed interest in revitalizing the old Distelfink in one form or another. However, to date, nothing has yet materialized in the way of any proposed progress.

The old sign of the Distelfink; Source: Library of Congress; Carol M. Highsmith, photographer.

Honest Work, Quality Service

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Brady’s Auto & Truck Solutions Now Open in Sabillasville

Kenny Brady’s journey to becoming a diesel mechanic began with his first truck. When it broke down, his father refused to cover the repair costs, so Brady took matters into his own hands and learned how to fix it himself. That pivotal moment marked the beginning of his passion for mechanics—a passion that eventually led to the founding of his own business.

Today, a photo of that first truck proudly hangs in the lobby of Brady’s Auto & Truck Solutions, a tribute to how it all started.

Kenny and his wife, Lindsay, recently opened Brady’s Auto & Truck Solutions, located at 17040 Sabillasville Road in Sabillasville. Although Kenny has been doing automotive work on the side for the past decade, owning his own shop has always been his dream.

The couple takes pride in delivering high-quality work at reasonable prices. Brady’s Auto & Truck Solutions offers a wide range of automotive services, including brake repairs, diagnostics, air conditioning services, and more. Kenny even extends his expertise to 4-wheelers, side-by-sides, and trailers. Lindsay describes her husband as an honest and straightforward person; when working on your vehicle, he’s upfront about what needs immediate attention and offers advice on preventive maintenance to avoid future issues.

Brady’s Auto & Truck Solutions operates Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with weekend appointments available upon request.

To schedule your next appointment, visit their Facebook page or call 301-462-3789.

The Brady Family poses outside their new business.

BusinessBriefs

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Thurmont New Business and Development Briefs

The following are the statuses of new businesses and development coming to Thurmont:

Subdivisions

Hammaker Hills, Phase 1 (Woodland Avenue) — 36 single-family lots recorded, built, and sold.  Final site work to be completed.

Hammaker Hills, Phase 2 (Westview Drive) — 22 single-family lots in R-2; Final Plat approved; site work underway.

Mechanicstown, LLC — (Emmitsburg Road) — Final Plat conditionally approved for 31 single-family lots in R-2/ ARP.

Mountain Brooke (Emmitsburg Road) — Final Plat conditionally approved for 11 single-family lots in R-2/ ARP.

Leal Homes (Eyler Road) — Preliminary Plat to create 6 single-family lots in ARP using clustering subdivision regulations; third party review of stormwater management plan.

Simmer’s Property — Contract purchaser, Cross & Company, held a public meeting at the Thurmont Library on June 27, 2024, to discuss potential development plans, but has not officially submitted for Town review.

* No activity on Oak Forest Concept Plan

Site Plans

Thurmont Bank Building — Final Site Plan approved; interior building redevelopment, 3 Commercial Spaces and 9 Apartment Units. Under construction.

Thurmont Business Park, Lot 1 — Goodwill store; 17,850-square-foot building – under construction.

Michael & Holly Late — Preliminary Plan, 2 Duplexes, 4 dwellings, in Mixed Use Village-1; continuation requested by applicant.

Sheetz Store — Preliminary Site Plan for re-build of site in General Business, Planning & Zoning Commission conditionally approved March 28, 2024. Final Site Plan approval upon meeting conditions.

Emmitsburg New Business and Development Briefs

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

Penny Mart (7 E. Main Street) — Held its grand opening on July 17.

Federal Stone (Creamery Road, east side of US 15) — Awaiting status updates from the developer.

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

Emmitsburg Distillery (East Emmitsburg Industrial Park II Lot 4) — An updated improvement plan has been reviewed by town staff and comments submitted. The developer needs to address the comments to align the plan with the Creamery Court improvements.

Christ Community Church (Creamery Road) — The improvement plan is under review.

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

Upcoming

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

Businesses Past…

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T h u r m o n t ’ s D i x i e D i n e r

by Richard D. L. Fulton

Beginning in the late 1930s, and reaching a peak in the 1960s, seemingly every town or community across America served as home to a genre of eateries commonly referred to as diners, known for their “home-cooked” meals offered at amazingly reasonable and affordable prices.

They became as much a part of “Roadside America” as petting zoos, theme parks, and miniature golf sites, all of which, including the diners, were spawned by the 1930s-1940s’ “introduction of highways (spurred further by the creation of the interstate highway system by President Dwight D. Eisenhower) and the rising car culture of America,” according to The Evolution of the American Diner, by Cassidy Nemick (scalar.usc.edu).

Not only did diners provide cheap, home-cooked, wholesome meals to travelers at very competitive prices, but they also tended to be supported by numerous local patrons as well, often serving as a center of social interaction.

The Dixie Diner

More often than not, as a cost-saving measure, diners were housed within retired streetcars, buses, and even old railroad cars that were purchased for near-scrap prices, which were then converted into diners with seating, tables, and kitchen included.

Thurmont Mayor John Kinnaird stated that the Dixie Diner was located in Thurmont at the intersection of Frederick Road and Water Street and was established and initially owned by Mary and Leonard Fogle, beginning in the late 1930s.

Nancy Gearhart Rice, Thurmont, noted in The Way Things Were in Local Government and More (Catoctin Banner, September 2023), that the diner was subsequently operated by Bill Houck, Audie and Audrey Moore, and Myrtle and Jim Steele.

In this respect, the Dixie Diner of Thurmont was no different. According to Kinnaird, the old Dixie Diner was housed within a streetcar that was once used on the Hagerstown & Frederick (H&F) Railroad.

Kinnaird stated, “It is a good bet that the streetcar was purchased by the diner owners directly from the H&F, and then had it transported via the H&F to Thurmont.”

At some point in time during the diner’s operation, a second car was added in order to accommodate the increase in patronage. The mayor stated that “At this time, all the traffic on Rt. 15 passed this location.”

Not only did the Fogles live in a house adjacent to the diner, but Leonard Fogle also owned a garage located next to the diner, being strategically located in proximity to Route 15, Leonard sold fuel and repaired trucks. The name of the enterprise was given as having been the Dixie Diner & Service Station in a 1950 advertisement.

Offbeat Incidents

Sometime during the night of August 19, 1940, after the diner was closed, a thief apparently entered the diner via the rear window, according to August 20, 1940, The Frederick Post, which further noted, “Authorities are inclined to believe the prowler was a man familiar with the establishment.”

The theft was discovered upon opening the diner the next morning at 6:00 a.m. by waitress Audrey Ecker. The thief reportedly had stolen “between $7 and $10.”

Another theft was reported by The Frederick Post on October 13, 1947, when a wallet, believed to have been unknowingly dropped on the floor while patron Sherman Shuff reportedly was in the diner. The wallet was subsequently recovered by a puppy belonging to Anna M. Jones. The dog found the wallet in a creek on East Street and then “proudly” presented his find to Jones.

The newspaper reported that various contents of the wallet were seemingly intact, except for the money it had contained, which was missing.

The Demise of the Diners

Kinnaird stated that the diner had “closed around 1958 after the Route 15 bypass opened,” adding, “After shutting the Dixie Dinner, the then-owner, Jim Steele, opened his restaurant at Franklinville.”

So, what led to the demise of America’s diners, overall?

Clearly, the Age of the Diner came to an end in the 1960s. Nemick wrote, in The Evolution of the American Diner, “Unfortunately, diners began to find that their clientele were being snatched away to fast-food joints, food chains, and (restaurant) drive-ins,” noting further that the number of diners continued to wain “as motorists and travelers began to choose convenience and speed over traditional dining.”

Diner co-owner Mary Fogle at the Dixie Diner after having added a second streetcar.

Two New Businesses Welcomed to Emmitsburg

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The Town of Emmitsburg celebrated the opening of two new downtown businesses with a July 17 ribbon-cutting ceremony: Penny Mart and Gettysbur g Smoothie Company. The town is excited to have Penny Mart, a convenience store, on the square, where you can find a little bit of everything, and the Gettysburg Smoothie Company, where you can get delicious smoothies, Açaí bowls, coffee, and more.

Penny Mart CEO Jamil Malik shows Emmitsburg Mayor Frank Davis around the new Penny Mart store on the downtown square. Penny Mart is a small chain of convenience stores that feature groceries, deli foods, and tobacco products.

Emmitsburg Town Planner Najila Ahsan (second from left), Commission President Amy Boehman-Pollitt, Penny Mart franchise owner Marij Ahmed, Emmitsburg Mayor Frank Davis, Penny Mart franchise owner Umair Hussein, and Penny Mart CEO Jamil Malik, cut the ribbon to officially open the new Emmitsburg Penny Mart on the downtown square.

Emmitsburg Commission President Amy Boehman-Pollitt speaks with Gettysburg Smoothie Company owner Phil Letendre inside the new Gettysburg Smoothie Company on the downtown square.

Gettysburg Smoothie Company owner Phil Letendre, Summer Rodkey, Emmitsburg Commission President Amy Boehman-Pollitt, Emmitsburg Town Planner Najila Ahsan, Emmitsburg Mayor Frank Davis, and Town Operations Specialist Brandy Malocha cut the ribbon to officially open the new Gettysburg Smoothie Company on the downtown square.

BusinessBriefs

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Thurmont New Business and Development Briefs The The The following are the statuses of new businesses and development coming to Thurmont:

Subdivisions

  • Hammaker Hills, Phase 1 (Woodland Avenue) — 36 single-family lots recorded, built, and sold. Final site work to be completed.
  • Hammaker Hills, Phase 2 (Westview Drive) — 22 single-family lots in R-2; Final Plat approved Oct. 26, 2023; site work underway.
  • Mechanicstown, LLC — (Emmitsburg Road) — Final Plat conditionally approved for 31 single-family lots in R-2/ ARP.
  • Mountain Brooke (Emmitsburg Road) — Preliminary Plat approved for 11 single-family lots in R-2/ ARP; Final Plat to be reviewed August 22, 2024.
  • Leal Homes (Eyler Road) — Preliminary Plat to create 6 single-family lots in ARP using clustering subdivision regulations; third party review of stormwater management plan.
  • Simmer’s Property — Contract purchaser, Cross & Company, held a public meeting at the Thurmont Library on June 27, 2024, to discuss potential development plans, but has not officially submitted for Town review.

* No activity on Oak Forest Concept Plan

Site Plans

  • Thurmont Bank Building — Final Site Plan approved; interior building redevelopment, 3 Commercial Spaces and 9 Apartment Units. Construction has begun.
  • Thurmont Business Park, Lot 1 — Goodwill store; 17,850-square-foot building – under construction.
  • Michael & Holly Late — Concept Plan, 2 Duplexes, 4 dwellings in Mixed Use Village-1, Planning & Zoning Commission tabled March 28, 2024.
  • Sheetz Store — Preliminary Site Plan for re-build of site in General Business, Planning & Zoning Commission conditionally approved March 28, 2024. Final Site Plan approval upon meeting conditions.

Emmitsburg New Business and Development Briefs

.The following are the statuses of new businesses and development coming to Emmitsburg from the town planner ’s report:

  • Federal Stone (Creamery Road, east side of US 15) — Under construction.
  • Seton Village — The applicant is seeking planning commission approval of a subdivision plat to convert two condominium units into two re corded lots. The town is awaiting signatures and the fee in-lieu for forest conservation.
  • Emmitsburg Distillery (East Emmitsburg Industrial Park II Lot 4) — An updated improvement plan has been submitted and reviewed. The developer needs to address the new comments.
  • Christ Community Church (Creamery Road) — A conditional zoning permit has been issued, and the improvement plan is under review .
  • Mount St. Mary’s University E Wing Improvements (South Seton Avenue) — Tree removal started at the beginning of July, and excavation started during the week of July 8.
  • Emmit Ridge — The town engineer and town staff are reviewing the sketch plat. There is an ongoing discussion regarding the setback requiremen ts. The Board of Appeals approved the setback variance.
  • Penny Mart — Zoning and sign permits have been issued.

New Farm Store Brings Local Meats and More to Fairfield

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Alisha Yocum

Raven Rock Livestock recently opened at the corner of Rt. 16 and Harbaugh Valley Rd in Fairfield, Pennsylvania. The Zeller Brothers, Tyler and Andrew, and their families, recently started the new venture together after purchasing the farm from their grandparents in 2017. As kids, the two spent many hours helping their grandparents around the farm and learning along the way. The families carried on what their grandparents had first started many years ago, which was selling beef and pork that they raised on the farm. However, they were looking for a better way to distribute their meats, which is why they decided to open the farm store. Tyler said, “The sausage has been a big hit for us.” The store features a variety of unique sausage flavors, including blueberry, apple, peppers and onions, and sweet Italian, to name a few.

The farm store also collaborates with other local farms to bring customers a variety of local products, including milk and cheeses, in a variety of flavors; eggs; honey; and fresh-cut flowers.

When pulling up to the store, you will also notice gates, round pens, feeders, and other farm equipment for sale. “Our goal is to become a one-stop shop for all your farm or agricultural needs,” said Tyler. The store is an official Tarter Farm & Ranch equipment retailer. The owners are dedicated to beating the “box store” prices and providing better customer service.

The Zeller family hopes to build community with their new store. Tyler says he wants this to be a place where everyone can come and everyone can feel welcome, and he hopes they will be able to pass along the business to their children one day.

The business is open Thursday and Friday, from 2:00-6:30 p.m., and Saturday, from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. The store also offers an after-hours bell. If you are driving by and just need a gallon of milk, ring the bell, and someone will come to the store to assist you—a true sign that they are committed to offering the best in customer service.

For more information, visit their website at www.ravenrocklivestock.com or follow their Facebook page.

Co-owner Tyler Zeller and his family recently opened a farm store with his brother, Andrew, in Fairfield, Pennsylvania.

The Zeller sisters pose with their favorite flavors of milk, Cookies and Cream and Strawberry.

Businesses Past…

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E m m i t s b u r g  B o w l i n g  L a n e s

Emmitsburg Recreation Center, which once contained the Emmitsburg Lanes bowling alleys, was located across an alley from the existing laundromat on West Main Street and was in operation from the 1940s until 1965.

The building housing the recreation center was described by The (Frederick) News, in 1965, as having been “two stories tall in the front with three apartments over the snack bar,” and that “the back of the building drops down to a one-story level over the bowling alley.”

The  Emmitsburg Recreation Center and the inclusive Emmitsburg Lanes were owned and operated by  Charles A. Harner, who owned other theaters as well. The center served as the host to numerous tournaments during its existence, in addition to sponsoring local leagues and teams. The News noted in 1951 that the center had established the “Civil League,” consisting of 12 teams.

Things didn’t always go well at the center. The News reported on November 14, 1950, that Harner “is recovering at his home from injuries received when two men gave him a brutal beating at his place of business.” His injuries landed him in the Annie E. Warner Hospital (later known as the Gettysburg Hospital) for a week before his release.

Sometime during 1958, three individuals broke into the center and stole some $35 from a soda machine, cash register, and a tray that contained $20 in pennies, according to The News. This and other acts resulted in two of the participants being remanded over to the Maryland House of Corrections. A third suspect was awaiting a hearing in the juvenile court.

On March 25, 1965, the glory days of the Emmitsburg Recreation Center came to a disastrous end in a raging blaze, covered by newspapers from Cumberland to Frederick to Baltimore.  The morning after the fire, the top headline of The News read, “Blaze Ruins Recreation Center.”

The News reported that the fire had been initially reported around 11:35 p.m. on March 25, and that the fire had spread throughout “the entire first story of the building, including a 10-lane bowling alley and a snack bar.”

According to The (Baltimore) Evening Sun, state police stated that the fire had been started in a deep-fryer in the snack bar of the Recreation Bowling  Lanes,” and then “spread rapidly through the restaurant and bowling alleys.” More specifically, The News reported that the fire had started “from an overheated deep fry pan when grease exploded and set the restaurant section of the brick building on fire.”

More than 70 firefighters rushed to the scene of the blaze, The News stated, which included firefighters from Emmitsburg, Thurmont, and the Citizens Company of Frederick. The newspaper reported that the firefighters had battled the blaze for more than six hours, and the smoldering embers continued to be doused with water even longer until there was no chance of the fire rekindling itself.

The News reported that the fire companies were shooting water from their hoses onto the burning building from the rooftops of the laundromat and the United Church of Christ, and that the blaze had raged “uncontrollably” from 11:35 p.m. to around 1:00 a.m.

The Cumberland News reported that “A woman and her three children were rescued by ladder from the smoke-filled apartment on the second floor.”   The News identified the four individuals as “Mrs. Andrew Michell, and her three children, all under four years of age,” further noting that the rescue had been conducted by members of the Emmitsburg Fire Company (predecessor of the Vigilant Hose Company),

Two couples living in the other apartments had made their own way out to safety. The News identified them as having been Mr. and Mrs. Henry Troxell and Mr. and Mrs. Junior Manahan, all of whom had found their way out “through the dense smoke,” further stating that several bowling alley patrons had also managed to escape the smoke and fire.

The Sun reported that state police had stated that the building had sustained an estimated $70,000 in damages in the fire. The News noted that the building was covered by insurance, but the contents of the restaurant, which was managed by William Boyd, were not covered. The apartments were not burned but had sustained smoke and water damage.

One Emmitsburg fireman had been overcome by smoke and was transported to the Annie E. Warner Hospital, where he was treated and released.

Harner never re-opened the center or the bowling alleys.

Unidentified bowlers at Emmitsburg Recreation Center.

Business Briefs

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Emmitsburg New Business and Development Briefs

.The following are the statuses of new businesses and development coming to Emmitsburg from the town planner’s report:

Federal Stone (Creamery Road, east side of US 15) — Under construction.

Gettysburg Smoothie (5 E. Main St.) — Opened May 22.

Seton Village — The applicant is seeking planning commission approval of a subdivision plat to convert two condominium units into two recorded lots. The planning commission approved the plan unanimously, and the plan is awaiting signatures.

Emmitsburg Distillery (East Emmitsburg Industrial Park II Lot 4) — An updated improvement plan has been submitted and reviewed.

Christ Community Church (Creamery Road) — The site plan for review has been approved. The improvement plan is pending.

Mount St. Mary’s University E Wing Improvements (South Seton Avenue) — They are awaiting signatures.

St. Joseph Church (North Seton Avenue) — The planning commission unanimously approved the improvement plan for the installation of a ramp that meets ADA standards.

Emmit Ridge — The town engineer and town staff are reviewing the sketch plat. There is an ongoing discussion regarding the setback requirements. The Board of Appeals received the application for variance on May 28.

Penny Mart — Town staff has had an initial meeting with the owner. The town is awaiting the zoning permit application.

Development Pipeline/Applicant Interest

Frailey Property Annexation — A potential developer is interested in developing the portion of the property within the town boundary before annexing and developing the rest of the property.

Rodney McNair Property Annexation — Town staff is awaiting an annexation application.

Businesses Past…

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Emmitsburg’s Gem Theater

Emmitsburg’s lone theater, which was located at 125 West Main Street, provided not only theatrical entertainment to the community but also hosted social events and fundraisers.

The earliest mention of Emmitsburg’s Gem Theater appeared in the November 1933 edition of The (Hanover) Evening Sun, when according to the Sun, “Fire broke out in the projection room of the Gem Theater about 10 o’clock Saturday during the last show,” adding, “The flames caused quite a commotion among those in the theater.”

However, the flames were extinguished by projectionist. Arthur Elder, using an “emergency fire exterminator.”  The newspaper noted that the fire did not cause “much damage.”  The causation of the fire was attributed to “a broken film (that was) ignited by an arc light.”

Beginning in  December 1934, the management of the Gem Theater had initiated an annual tradition by offering local children an opportunity to attend free movies during the Christmas season festivities being held in Emmitsburg.  Specifically, in December1935, the children were treated to a free western, according to The (Hanover) Evening Sun, a luxury for the children whose families were financially caught-up in the Great Depression.

In 1940, the owner/manager of the Gem Theater was identified as having been Harry T. Bollinger. Also in 1940, as the United States slid toward an inescapable collision of nations comprising the Second World War, the Gem Theater focused on local needs, and during July 1940 that a special two-night movie would be shown for the benefit of an Emmitsburg playground, The Sun reported. 

In 1952, The Sun identified a new owner of the Gem as being John G. Miller, who also owned the Taneytown Theater and a soon-to-open “open air” theater at Bridgeport. 

The Gem apparently continued to operate normally until the summer of 1954, which “had been closed most of the summer,” according to The Sun, but before it had reopened, the theater was leased by Miller to Clifford “Kayo” Keilholtz and William Rogers. 

Whatever transpired in the wake of that arrangement, it was not noted that the theater would re-open until November 2, 1955, under the new management of “Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Clem.” However, The Sun reported that the theater had been upgraded with a new wide-screen, and an enlarged concession stand.

But the end of the Gem was rapidly approaching. The (Frederick) News reported in October 1960 that the Gem Theater, “which has been closed for several years” will reopen on October 21, and is presently now under new management, and that the theater had undergone “extensive remodeling and improvements.” 

By December 1960, the theater reopened under a new name, the “MG Theater,” according to The News. No explanation was provided regarding the change of franchise, but the newly re-dubbed theater was going to continue with the Christmas holiday tradition of free movies for the area children, a tradition which was continued into 1963.

Bruce Hollinger, II, formerly of Emmitsburg, stated that his father was a partner in the theater operation going into the 1960s, during the effort to save the Gem/MG Theater, noting that the effort  was to have been “more of a benefit to the residents, rather than a profit-making endeavor.”

In spite of those efforts, in 1964, the Gem/MG Theater closed its doors forever, and the building was subsequently converted into apartments.

Emmitsburg area resident David Little recalled that, “The (theater seat) cushions were brown and thick, and you walked in aisles (to get to them) , and then to sit, you pushed the back-up, (whereas), nowadays you push the seat down to sit.”

Little and his family lived above the bowling alley at the time when the Gem was still in business and noted that whenever the doors of the theater were opened, “ We could smell the buttered popcorn from across the street.” He said admission for a matinee showing was ten cents. “My mother would give me a quarter for a Saturday afternoon matinee movie, candy, and a coke.”

 The former 125 West Main Street location of the Gem Theater.

Social Media Trend Sparks Spa Opening at Fort Ritchie

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Alisha Yocum

Local resident, Chasity Cool, first learned about Japanese Head Spas through a YouTube video. As its name suggests, this treatment originated in Japan and quickly gained traction in China and Korea before reaching the United States. Cool says TikTok videos have driven its popularity over the last few years.

After researching the new trend, Cool opened Orchid Oasis Day Spa inside Flat Top Suites at historic Fort Ritchie in Cascade.

The service combines traditional Japanese methods with contemporary haircare practices to address scalp and hair concerns. Throughout the treatment—in addition to shampooing and conditioning—water is directed to pressure points on the head, enhancing relaxation and promoting better blood flow to the scalp. According to Cool, while many clients seek these treatments for relaxation purposes, they also offer significant benefits for individuals dealing with hair loss or thinning, psoriasis, stress, or those recovering from chemotherapy treatments.

Cool has over 25 years of experience as a nurse in dermatology and is a licensed Esthetician. With her background, Cool created what she calls a Scalpacial, which includes the head spa, facial, and massage, giving you the ultimate spa relaxation package.

Although Cool just opened the spa in 2023, she has already added a second spa bed, and she hopes to add a third soon.

In March, a client’s TikTok video went viral, allowing Cool to quit her job in dermatology and work full-time at the spa.

“This is my dream and what I want to do, and I am finally doing it,” said Cool.

The spa offers a variety of services for men, women, and teenagers, in addition to those mentioned above, including waxing, eyelashes, beard conditioning, teen facials, and foot facials. 

Cool is also proud to support other women-owned businesses and sells those products in in her spa.

The spa is open Monday, 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.; Thursday, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.; Friday, 12:00-9:00 p.m.;  Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

Check out her website at orchidoasis.glossgenius.com or Facebook for upcoming events and specials, including Father’s Day specials!

Chasity Cool, owner of Oasis Orchid Day Spa, located at Fort Ritchie in Cascade, offers Japanese head spas and other spa services.

Evergreen Adult Medicine Moves from Gettysburg to Thurmont

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James Rada, Jr.

Although Wellspan Family Medicine in Thurmont is closing this summer, patients do not need to worry. A new family medicine practice opened in March to care for patients in the area. Evergreen Adult Medicine has its office at 20 Frederick Road, across from Community Park.

“We will be able to offer a supportive alternative,” said Dr. Talbot Smith, who runs the practice.

Smith has been a board-certified family physician since 2005. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore and has two undergraduate degrees: a B.S. in Biological Resources Engineering from the University of Maryland at College Park, and a B.A. in Liberal Arts from St John’s College in Annapolis.

Smith works with Physician Assistant Meagan Weaver. She has more than 15 years of experience. She earned a B.S. in Molecular Biology from Juniata College and an M.S. from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

They both formerly practiced at Apple Ridge Adult Medicine in Gettysburg. However, Smith decided to close that practice and open his new practice in Thurmont.

“I live in Maryland, and I’m originally from Baltimore,” Smith said. “I like the area, and I like the town. It’s closer to my home.”

Smith and Weaver can diagnose and treat a wide range of chronic and acute medical conditions in adults. They are also able to certify patients for medical marijuana in Pennsylvania and, eventually, Maryland.

“We can help adult patients with long-term health issues,” Smith said. “We are a private practice that offers our patients consistency of care and a focus on patient needs.”

Closing the Pennsylvania practice after 20 years was a big change; although, many of their patients have followed them to Thurmont. Switching states also required some other changes besides location. They had to change their state license, federal license, and insurance information.

Things locally have been much easier, though.

“We’ve had a great experience with the small-business community here,” Smith said. “Vickie [Grinder] with economic development and the town council have been very supportive.”

Evergreen Adult Medicine is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can reach them at 301-979-9636 or 717-334-8165 or by visiting www.evergreenadultmedicine.com.

Emmitsburg New Business and Development Briefs

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The following are the statuses of new businesses and development coming to Emmitsburg from the town planner’s report:

Federal Stone (Creamery Road, east side of US 15) — Under construction.

Seton Village — The applicant is seeking planning commission approval of a subdivision plat to convert two condominium units into two recorded lots. The planning commission approved the plan unanimously, and the plan is awaiting signatures.

Emmitsburg Distillery (East Emmitsburg Industrial Park II Lot 4) — An updated improvement plan has been submitted and reviewed. The town engineer and staff will meet with the developer again to discuss.

Christ Community Church (Creamery Road) — The site plan for review has been approved. The improvement plan is pending.

Mount St. Mary’s University E Wing Improvements (South Seton Avenue) — Updated Plans, including lighting plans, have been received and reviewed. They are awaiting signatures.

St. Joseph Church (North Seton Avenue) — The planning commission unanimously approved the improvement plan for the installation of a ramp that meets ADA standards.

Rainbow Lake Parking Lot — The project is being reviewed by Frederick County.

Emmit Ridge — The town engineer and town staff are reviewing the sketch plat. There is an ongoing discussion regarding the setback requirements.

Development Pipeline/Applicant Interest

Frailey Property Annexation — A potential developer is interested in developing the portion of the property within the town boundary before annexing and developing the rest of the property.

Rodney McNair Property Annexation — Town staff is awaiting an annexation application.

Businesses Past…

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The Slagle Hotels I & II

Richard D. L. Fulton

The three-story building that was once the Slagle Hotel still stands at the Emmitsburg Town Square and presently serves as a 16-unit apartment building. Over time, the 150-year-old building has undergone several name changes.

The Slagle Hotel did have two previous names: one being the Western Maryland Hotel (since railroads apparently built a number of hotels along their lines) and the other name being Hotel Spangler. 

The (Frederick) News reported on April 10, 1899, “The Western Maryland hotel at Emmitsburg was recently purchased by Dr. C. G. Spangler… The entire hotel has been remodeled and will be known hereafter as Hotel Spangler.” The hotel was actually acquired by the doctor in 1898 for $4,000.

James A. Slagle acquired the Hotel Spangler shortly before his death from appendicitis on December 19, 1910, and had become the proprietor of the newly dubbed Slagle Hotel a short time before his demise. It was announced in the August 5, 1911, edition of The (Frederick) Daily News that Slagle “a short time ago had succeeded as proprietor of Hotel Slagle.”

Following his death, the administration of his estate was assigned to his wife, Annie M. Slagle.  In December 1912, Annie Slagle decided to sell all the furnishings of the hotel and the equipage of the attached livery. The sale included all the family’s horses and vehicles associated with the hotel. It appears that the sale was for the purpose of disposing of all unwanted items as a prelude to reestablishing the Hotel Slagle in a new soon-to-be-announced location.

The readers of the advertisement in the December 12 edition of the Daily Record and Blue Ridge Zephyr were directed to contact either Slagle or L.L. Mondorff (Lawrence L. Mondorff was Slagle’s son from her first marriage). 

Beginning sometime around April 1913, George W. Biddinger rented the Slagle Hotel while Slagle’s widow, Annie Slagle, continue to operate it, Biddinger having stated in an article published April 26, 1913, edition of The (Frederick) Daily News that “Mrs. Slagle was now conducting the Slagle Hotel, which she would run until May 1.”

The newspaper noted that the soon-to-be former Hotel Slagle had been rented by George W. Pittinger (to make matters as confusing as possible, the name is also spelled as George W. Bittinger in some news accounts), and that Annie Slagle will be quitting as manager of old Hotel Slagle and will be taking charge of the new Hotel Slagle opening at the Emmit House.

It is here that basically the story of the Slagle Hotel (at the town square) ends… somewhat.  According to the March 29, 1913, edition of the Adams County News, which reported. “The Emmit House at Emmitsburg has been leased by Lawrence L. Mondorff and that well-known hostelry will shortly become the new home of Hotel Slagle…” 

Mondorff applied for a liquor license for a saloon at the “New Slagle Hotel” in April 1913, and it appears to have opened a Pandora’s Box in the process. 

The request had immediately fueled opposition, some claiming that liquor sales at the hotel had been taking place after midnight on Saturdays into Sunday mornings, that some of the liquor that was being sold was being served to minors, and that rooms at the hotel were being used for gaming and gambling. 

The effort to secure a liquor license apparently was unsuccessful.

Annie Slagle passed away in September 1921 at age 53. According to her obituary, she still owned(?) both the buildings that had contained the old Slagle Hotel, and the building that contained the newer one (the Emmit House).

According to the August 1922 Woodsboro-Walkersville News-Journal, the end of the Slagle Hotel finally came in 1922, when the buildings containing the (newer) Slagle Hotel was sold to William Roberts, at which point in time the building was then reverted to its previous name, the Emmit House.

An advertisement for the Emmit Hotel, under the management of Roberts, appeared in the August 13, 1922, edition of The Baltimore Sun.  The final demise of the old and new Slagel Hotel had arrived.

Town of Thurmont Recognized As a Tree City USA for the Eighth Consecutive Year

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For the eighth consecutive year, the Town of Thurmont has been recognized as a Tree City USA. To become a Tree City USA, a community must have: A tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observation and proclamation. The Thurmont Green Team, Thurmont Parks and Recreation Commission, Town staff, and other community organizations hold tree-planting events throughout the year.

Since 2014, the Town of Thurmont has planted over 1,200 trees. In addition to the Tree City USA recognition, Thurmont is also recognized for achieving the Growth Award for the fourth consecutive year. Thurmont is among a small group of cities (less than 15 percent of all Tree Cities) that earned a Growth Award for going above and beyond the four standards of Tree City USA this year.

“This recognition is a huge testament to the exceptional efforts put forth by our dedicated staff and volunteers,” said Chief Administrative Officer Jim Humerick.

The town is currently working on tree-planting projects that are affiliated with the 5 Million Trees Program, sponsored by the Maryland Forest Service. A community tree-planting project at East End Park scheduled for April 4 was canceled due to weather. A future date will be scheduled. Visit www.thurmont.com.

Business Briefs

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The following are the statuses of new businesses and development coming to Emmitsburg from the town planner’s report:

Federal Stone (Creamery Road, east side of US 15) — Under construction.

Seton Village — The applicant is seeking planning commission approval of a subdivision plat to convert two condominium units into two recorded lots. The planning commission approved the plan unanimously.

Emmitsburg Distillery (East Emmitsburg Industrial Park II Lot 4) — The Town Engineer and Staff had more comments regarding the updated Improvement Plan, especially regarding the size of the water pipe line and associated flow and pressure. Staff and Town Engineer met with the developer to clarify Town requirements.

Christ Community Church (Creamery Road) — The site plan for review has been approved. The improvement plan is pending.

Mount St. Mary’s University E Wing Improvements (South Seton Avenue) — The applicant has yet to satisfy all the conditions of approval. The town received updated plans on March 26.

St. Joseph Church (North Seton Avenue) — The planning commission unanimously approved the improvement plan for the installation of a ramp that meets ADA standards.

Development Pipeline/Applicant Interest

Frailey Property Annexation — A potential developer is interested in developing the portion of the property within the town boundary before annexing and developing the rest of the property.

Emmit Ridge — The town engineer and town staff are reviewing the submitted sketch plat.

Rainbow Lake Parking Lot — The project engineer has yet to satisfy the town engineer and staff comments.

Rodney McNair Property Annexation — Town staff is awaiting an annexation application.

Beth Ohler & Co. Opens as a New Team of J&B Real Estate

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Alisha Yocum

Beth Ohler & Co. recently started as a new team of J&B Real Estate. Ohler, who has been an agent for J&B Real Estate for seven years now leads her team out of the company’s office in Walkersville. Ohler says opening her new company allows her to maximize the team’s reach and allows for more flexibility in providing all the great services they offer!

Ohler’s team will include three additional agents and an administrative/marketing assistant. Combined, the team has over 14 years of experience.

Whether you are looking to sell or looking to buy your first home, a farm, land, or a townhouse, Ohler says she is ready to help you. The company even offers discounts for first responders!

When asked what advice Ohler had for the current real estate market, she advises sellers to use someone local who knows the market, so they can develop a strategy to maximize your sale. For buyers, she had similar advice: Don’t wait. Contact a realtor as soon as possible, even as much as a year out, so you can make sure everything is in order for when you are ready to buy.

Ohler resides on her farm in Thurmont with her husband, David, and two daughters, Madison and Jordyn.

When not selling real estate, you will find her around town at the softball fields or showing livestock her family raised on their farm. Ohler is also known for her support of the local community.

In December, Ohler connected with her parents at Kelco Plumbing and brother at Bulletproof Roofing to provide a Santa’s Workshop event for the community. Ohler says she hopes to do more events like this in the future, as giving back to the community is an important part of her business.

For more information about Beth Ohler & Co., view the advertisement on page 24.

The YMCA of Frederick County Brings Programs to Thurmont

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Beginning mid-April, the YMCA of Frederick County, working with the Town of Thurmont, is bringing several six- to eight-week-long classes to the town of Thurmont, as well as a one-day youth basketball clinic.

The YMCA of Frederick County has two branches and seven locations (including Camp West Mar in Sabillasville), but provides programs and services out of about 40 locations throughout the county, including before/after school care in 25 elementary schools and 8 Head Start classrooms. And, now, they are bringing programs to Thurmont, using Thurmont Regional Library and Thurmont Community Park. Programs will include:

Painting and Drawing, Mondays, 7:00-9:00 p.m., Thurmont Regional Library.

Youth Run Club, Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Thurmont Community Park.

Let’s Get Healthy, Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Thurmont Regional Library.

Flying Cows Basketball Skills Clinic, May 14, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (incl before/after care), Thurmont Community Park.

This is not the first time the YMCA has brought programs to Thurmont, but it is the first time in about two years. During COVID, the YMCA offered some one-day, family-friendly events outside at Thurmont Regional Park, but this is the first time the YMCA is bringing full-session, long programs, spanning a variety of program departments, including Arts & Humanities, Youth Sports, and Healthy Living.

The YMCA has been working with the Town of Thurmont to approve programs, find locations, and market the upcoming services. They recently attended the Thurmont town meeting and presented about the YMCA and the offered programs.

“We are so excited to be working in collaboration with the YMCA of Frederick County to bring the “Y On The Fly” programs to Northern Frederick County. The programs being offered for the spring session cover a wide range of interests for all ages. There is something for everyone,” says Vicki Grinder, economic development manager for the Town of Thurmont.

As part of its strategic plan, the YMCA is focusing on “offering vital Y programs and services throughout Frederick County by expanding programming.” The YMCA has hired Jon Watkins as director of Community Outreach to build and expand relationships with local governments and other organizations and nonprofits.

“Our mission is to provide critical services to those in underserved communities. We are excited about re-engaging in the town of Thurmont and look forward to learning more about the needs and interests of Thurmont residents,” says Chris Colville, president and CEO of the YMCA of Frederick County.

The YMCA is a 501c3 nonprofit organization and provides programs to build a healthy body, mind, and spirit for all. Through their annual campaign, they provide financial assistance, ensuring everyone has access to programs and services to learn, grow, and thrive. To learn more about financial assistance or programs and services offered, please visit frederickymca.org.

Emmitsburg New Business and Development Briefs

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The following are the statuses of new businesses and development coming to Emmitsburg from the town planner’s report:

Federal Stone (Creamery Road, east side of US 15) — Under construction.

Seton Village — The applicant is seeking planning commission approval of a subdivision plat to convert two condominium units into two recorded lots. Town staff met with the applicant to discuss the forest conservation requirements.

Emmitsburg Distillery (East Emmitsburg Industrial Park II Lot 4) — Update plans have been received, and town staff is reviewing them.

Christ Community Church (Creamery Road) — The applicant has resubmitted site plan for review. A landscape plan stamped by licensed landscape architect and a final review of the lighting plan are still pending.

Mount St. Mary’s University E Wing Improvements (South Seton Avenue) — The planning commission conditionally approved the plan, and staff provided additional comments for the applicant to address. The applicant has yet to satisfy all the conditions of approval, particularly regarding the lighting plan.

St. Joseph Church (North Seton Avenue) — Applicant summited an improvement plant for the installation of a ramp that meets ADA standards. Staff is currently reviewing it.

Development Pipeline/Applicant Interest

Frailey Property Annexation — A potential developer is interested in developing the portion of the property within the town boundary before annexing and developing the rest of the property.

Emmit Ridge — Town Staff will meet with the DRB Group regarding a sketch plat.

Rodney McNair Property Annexation — Town staff is awaiting an annexation application.

Goodwill Expansion Underway in Thurmont

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James Rada, Jr.

After two years of meetings for planning and approvals, the new, larger Goodwill retail store in Thurmont is under construction. While not complete, the end is in sight.

The new 17,850-square-foot store on Thurmont Boulevard, behind the Taco Bell/KFC, is expected to be finished by the end of November, with a grand opening sometime after that. The location is part of 2.95 acres in the Thurmont Business Park, according to planning documents.

The new, larger store will replace the current store on East Main Street and is conveniently located near shopping, banks, and restaurants.

The concept plan was first presented to the Thurmont Planning Commission in January 2022. The preliminary plans were presented in May and June of that year.

All new Goodwill stores, including store relocations like in Thurmont, will have drive-thru donation centers, according to a statement from Kristen Jones, senior manager of marketing and communications for Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley.

“We know that larger stores with more square footage will provide our shoppers with more product offerings at an affordable price,” the statement said. “[W]e’re committed to making a positive economic impact in Frederick and Carroll County, which includes increased employment opportunities for community members. Last year, we provided more than 300 jobs in the communities our stores serve.”

Mayor John Kinnaird said the Planning and Zoning Commission has handled reviewing and approving development plans, and the Board of Commissioners hasn’t provided much input on this project.

Kinnaird said the current Goodwill location has a “horrendous” parking situation, and there isn’t much room for the business to grow.

“Some nights, it’s surprising how many people are shopping at Goodwill, so I’m sure that their own customers’ needs have probably driven them to look for another location,” he said. “Any business that expands is great. It shows there’s a need for it, and they have the customer base to justify the expansion.”

Thurmont Town Planner Kelly Duty echoed Kinnaird and said the current Goodwill location has consistent problems with parking. When she passes by the store, it’s busy, she said.

“I think this definitely will be a benefit to the community at large. This will take a business where parking is an issue, it’ll move it to the general business district,” Duty said. “It’ll be easier to access by all.”

Sabillasville Resident Opens Studio Veer

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When Tamara Manahan of Sabillasville decided to open a business with her daughters, Mallery Sheppard and Jordan Reaver, it only seemed fitting to pick a name that indicated a change in direction. Manahan was looking for a new location for her permanent makeup business, and Sheppard, a hairstylist, had just moved back to the area after her husband completed six years as an airborne combat medic at Ft. Bragg. Reaver had also just completed her nail technician training. Together, they came up with the name Studio Veer, which is located at 204 Chambersburg Street in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. They believe that God had sent them in this new direction, with an opportunity to provide personalized care to their clients in a comfortable and intimate setting. Manahan says she doesn’t see this as just a business, but as a ministry. They love hearing their clients’ stories and journeys and helping them feel beautiful and confident.

Manahan has been doing permanent makeup for over eight years and offers services such as micro-blading, brow shading, combination brow, permanent eyeliner and lip color, tattoo removal, and, her newest service, fine line tattoos.

If you are looking for hair care, the studio offers full hair-care services, but Sheppard , who has been licensed since 2016, specializes in low-maintenance color, lived-in blondes, fashion shades, and gray blending. Reaver offers complete nail services, including manicures, pedicures, and beautiful nail art.

These ladies are proud to be women and a family-owned business, but they are also proud and passionate about their “Sunshine Project.” This program is for those who may need a little extra ray of light in their lives. Perhaps, someone is struggling through illness, the death of a loved one, divorce, financial struggles, and more. Studio Veer is asking for nominations of someone who could be blessed with a little extra sunshine in their life through a manicure, pedicure, haircut, etc. Text 301-302-6632 to make a nomination.

Studio Veer is open by appointment only. See their advertisement on page 12 for more details.