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Outdoors Outlet Becomes One-Stop Shop

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Blair Garrett

Keymar Outdoors, Frederick County’s newest hunting, fishing, and outdoor supply specialty shop, has officially opened its doors.

Outdoorsmen in the Northern Frederick County area can rejoice now that they have a new hub in Keymar, housing everything from fishing rods to deer feed, and much, much more.

Those of us who have stopped by Keymar Outdoors’ former location, Craig’s Mower and Marine, will see a familiar face among the walls of boating supplies and lawn care accessories.

Craig Eichelberger, owner and operator of Keymar Outdoors, has changed things around a bit. Eichelberger’s new shop has a new look and offers plenty of equipment to keep your mowers running and the fish biting. He now sells ammo and gun accessories, too, and plans to expand his hunting section even further.

“I applied for my Federal Firearms License (FFL) back in March, so I’m waiting on that to come through now,” Eichelberger said. “Once that comes through, we’ll be adding guns and stuff into the mix.”

While the store does offer much of the gear that hunters need, Eichelberger believes adding the guns to the store will take his business to the next level.

“Right now, we do everything hunting except for the guns,” he said. “In this area, there are a lot of hunters and a lot of farmers, so I think once the FFL comes in, it’ll be a really good thing once we get everything up and running.”

Despite the shop just opening its doors back in April, Eichelberger and company have been building this business for a long, long time.

“I originally started just doing mower repair. I worked part-time just down the road around 1990, and I decided to go into it full-time in ‘92,” Eichelberger said.

An unlikely call led to an opportunity that allowed his business to expand, and he ran with it. 

“Fort Ritchie got me into the boating side,” he said. “They called me when they were open as a military base, and they asked if I’d be interested in servicing some of their equipment.”

As he worked on some of their outdoor motors, locals began to take notice, and a new branch of his business was born.

“People would come in and see we had a boat motor sitting there, and they’d ask if we’d work on those,” Eichelberger said. “We really didn’t, but we’d take a look at it, and then we added that in for quite a few years.”

Keymar Outdoors no longer does the boating repairs it did at its previous location, but Eichelberger and his team have still got you covered on your boating needs. 

“We added hunting, fishing, and crabbing supplies, and that’s been a real hit, but we still sell all the boating parts and the accessories.”

While he now has a well-rounded outdoors store, he may be best known for his help fixing up faulty mowers. There’s a level of dependability leaving your engine repairs to a technician with the amount of experience that Eichelberger has.

Eichelberger has been fixing things for the better part of three decades. Before he got his start in his own business, he worked as a mechanic for a small plumbing company in Germantown, repairing generators and small engines. It was the first sign of foreshadowing for a business opportunity from which he would eventually be able to create a career.

Fortunately, Eichelberger’s willingness to adapt to his consumers’ needs has historically opened up avenues for business that have kept him successfully in this line of work for 30 years.

“I still have a lot of my normal customers, but we’ve picked up a lot of new people here, too, even if it’s just to stop by and see what we have in stock.”

If you’re someone who likes to spend your time out on the water or out in the woods, or needs lawn or garden equipment, stop by Keymar Outdoors and they just might have exactly what you’re looking for.

Keymar Outdoors is located at 1067B Francis Scott Key Hwy in Keymar. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; Saturday, 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.; and closed on Sundays. Call 301-271-2196 or view the advertisement on page 26 for more information.

Owner Craig Eichelberger mans the front of the store, offering patrons friendly advice on outdoor supplies.

Photo by Blair Garrett

Emmitsburg Business Briefs

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The following are the status of new businesses and development coming to Emmitsburg:

•  Brookfield cul-de-sac — The sketch plan is submitted, and the town is waiting for development plans for 10 single-family dwellings.

•  Christ’s Community Church — A concept plan has been submitted to build a 12,500 sq. ft. church with 98 parking spaces on Creamery Road near Quality Tire.

•  Emmit Ridge 2 — The property has sold to an investor. RJD Development and Ryan Homes are working with the investor to purchase it. Wetlands have been found that compromise eight of the proposed lots and part of the proposed Irishtown Drive. Wetland mitigation will need to be approved by the State of Maryland. Forty-eight lots have been proposed.

•  Federal Stone — The groundbreaking has been scheduled for 2023.

•  Frailey Farm — The property is for sale. The Emmitsburg town planner met with a potential developer in May.

•  Mason Dixon Logistics Park (Trout Property) — The concept plan has been submitted to staff for a commercial/industrial park. 

•  MDOT/SHA Park & Ride — The design is 15 percent complete. The project is on hold due to state budget cuts resulting from COVID-19. Staff is working with legislators to push the project forward. 

•  Ripleigh’s Creamery — Owners are working on a Fred. Co. building permit.

•  Rutter’s — The project is under active construction. It is expected to be completed later this summer.

•  Village Liquors & Plaza Inn — The owners are working with Frederick County on erosion and sediment control and stormwater management permits. Also, they are working on conditions for approval on the town site and improvement plans.

•  Warthen’s Court 5-unit townhomes — A sketch plan has been submitted. The developer is preparing the required engineered plans for the Emmitsburg Planning Commission submittal.

Emmitsburg New Business and Development Briefs

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The following are the status of new businesses and development coming to Emmitsburg:

 Brookfield cul-de-sac — The sketch plan has been submitted, and the town is waiting for development plans for 10 single-family dwellings.

Christ’s Community Church — A concept plan has been submitted to build a 12,500-square-foot church, with 98 parking spaces on Creamery Road near Quality Tire.

 Emmit Ridge 2 — The property has been sold to an investor. RJD Development and Ryan Homes are working with the investor to purchase it. Wetlands have been found that compromise eight of the proposed lots and part of the proposed Irishtown Drive. Wetland mitigation will need to be approved by the State of Maryland. Forty-eight lots have been proposed.

 Federal Stone — The final subdivision plat, the forest conservation plan, and the site plan have been submitted for combined lots 7 and 8.

 Frailey Farm — The property is for sale. A potential developer has reached out to the town for a meeting.

 Mason Dixon Logistics Park (Trout Property) — The concept plan has been submitted to staff. 

 MDOT/SHA Park & Ride — The design is 15 percent complete. The project is on hold due to state budget cuts resulting from COVID-19. Staff is working with legislators to push the project forward. 

 Ripleigh’s Creamery — The owners are working on obtaining a Frederick County building permit.

 Rutter’s — The project is under active construction. It is expected to be completed later this summer.

Village Liquors & Plaza Inn — The owners are working with Frederick County on erosion and sediment control and stormwater management permits. Also, they are working on conditions for approval on the town site and improvement plans.

 Warthen’s Court 5-unit townhomes — A sketch plan has been submitted. The developer is preparing the required engineered plans for the Emmitsburg Planning Commission submittal.

15-Year-Old Launches Successful Innovative Creamery in Pennsylvania

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Ripleigh’s Creamery dares to think differently about ice cream. The creamery is inspired and owned by 15-year-old Ripleigh Maring (pictured right), a rising sophomore at Delone Catholic High School and a member of the school’s volleyball team. You can find Ripleigh creating new flavors in the kitchen and whipping up some awesome shakes and other treats at one of the two Ripleigh’s Creamery locations!

The first location in Emmitsburg was launched when Ripleigh was 14 years old, and she has just completed the successful grand opening of her second location in McSherrystown, Pennsylvania. 

Ripleigh’s love of traveling has been a huge inspiration for her creative thinking. Visiting 12 countries and 42 states, she has seen and tasted some of the craziest treats in the world. From this exposure, she noticed that ice cream seemed to be a universal happiness. So, with the help of her parents, she decided that she would open her own ice cream shop. If you know Ripleigh, you know she is anything but boring so the ice cream needed to match her vibrance! She’s developed some pretty interesting flavors, too. Spicy Pineapple Avocado, Maple Bacon Caramel, Mango Siracha, and Green Bean Casserole (seasonal) are just a few of the wild creations!

Ripleigh feels that being a locally sourced company is also a top priority, so Ripleigh’s is a proud partner with a local family-owned dairy farm from East Berlin, Pennsylvania, providing the freshest dairy available. Ripleigh’s is also a peanut-allergy-conscious company, having protocols to prevent cross-contamination for customers with nut allergies, based on her childhood friends growing up with peanut allergies.

In Pennsylvania, Ripleigh’s Creamery can be found at 2 South 6th Street, McSherrystown, open daily from 12:00-9:00 p.m., offering homemade small-batch ice cream, along with Cookie Dough, Italian Ice, Freak Shakes, and Pop-It Waffles. For more information, visit www.ripleighs.com or www.facebook.com/ripleighs

Carriage House Celebrates Grand Re-Opening After Renovations

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On June 21, the Carriage House celebrated big renovations to one of Emmitsburg’s landmark restaurants with a grand re-opening and ribbon-cutting. Many friends of the beloved restaurant attended, including Emmitsburg Commissioner Tim O’Donnell.

Beginning construction in August of 2021 for the patio addition, and then the interior renovations in February 2022, Sharon Hance and her team have worked diligently through renovations to keep up with the demand for dining in, as well as catering. “I love how the new renovation kept the charm of the old 1857 building and just added new energy,” Manager Kristy Shriner said.

These updates included a spacious outdoor patio with ample seating, a brand-new bar to enjoy a beverage or a meal, and a fresh modern look to the classic dining space.

If you’re in the mood for a decadent meal or a nice casual dining experience, be sure to stop in or follow them on Facebook to see upcoming dining events, one-of-a-kind $10.00 burger specials on Wednesdays, and so much more!

Pictured from left are Commissioner Tim O’Donnell, Kristy Shriner, Sharon Hance, Teresa Vaugh, and Chef Tennille Middleton.

Grant Will Help Businesses Save Money Through Energy-Saving Improvements

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New grants are available for businesses to make energy-efficient retrofits and save money. Frederick County is offering supplemental grants, up to $5,000 for LED lighting upgrades and up to $10,000 for deeper retrofits to HVAC and commercial refrigeration systems. These funds will cover the customer co-pay for incentives offered by Potomac Edison. By combining funds, businesses may make improvements at no cost as long as funding is available.

There are two eligible Potomac Edison programs. First, the Small Business Direct Install provides a turnkey solution, choosing the best products for an upgrade, managing the installation process, and providing enhanced warranty support. Potomac Edison provides incentives covering up to 80 percent of installed energy saving measure costs.

Second, Building Tune-up (BT) offers incentives to offset the upfront costs for energy efficiency improvements in existing commercial buildings through HVAC, refrigeration, lighting, and food service measures. These incentives support more comprehensive improvements.

The programs are available for most non-residential facility types, including commercial, institutional, and industrial customers. To qualify, participating projects must be in Potomac Edison’s Maryland service territory.

Willdan Energy Solutions is implementing the Potomac Edison programs in partnership with Frederick County.

For more information, contact Willdan: energysavemd@willdan.com or call 800-880-3808.

Frederick Health’s 120th Anniversary

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Frederick Health, the largest healthcare provider in Frederick County, recently marked the 120th anniversary of its founding on May 1, 1902. Frederick Health—then known as Frederick City Hospital—was founded by Emma Smith, a local Frederick resident who had a deep commitment to her community.

Smith spent most of her life working on behalf of the residents of Frederick, and her legacy continues to live on in the care provided by the organization that she helped to found. “Our community is so incredibly blessed to have this organization,” said Tom Kleinhanzl, president & CEO of Frederick Health. “Ms. Smith, our founder, had a saying: ‘Care for the sick, comfort the injured, and provide peace of mind,’ and we’ve certainly done that incredibly well for 120 years.” From its humble beginnings as a single hospital with a dozen beds, Frederick Health has grown to a network of facilities, offering state-of-the-art, award-winning healthcare. Recently, Frederick Health Hospital was named one of the Top 100 Hospitals in the Nation by Healthgrades America.“Our hospital now has nearly 300 beds, and our expansive network contains 22 facilities, with nearly 4,500 team members. Emma Smith could have never dreamed that we would have grown in such a way,” added Kleinhanzl.

Throughout the month of May, Frederick Health marked the anniversary with special announcements and ceremonies. The system continues to grow and will be opening its new Critical Care Expansion at the hospital later this summer, as well as its 23rd facility in Emmitsburg.

“Together, we row this boat that cares for this community. We’ve been caring for you, our friends, family, and neighbors for 120 years, ”continued Kleinhanzl. “We’re going strong and we will continue to be here for this community.” For more information, please visit www.frederickhealth.org/120.

Dynamic Automotive Opens in Emmitsburg

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Deb Abraham Spalding

Adam Trawick of Sabillasville jumped at the opportunity to move from the New Market Dynamic Automotive location, where he worked as an auto technician, to become the manager at the new Dynamic Automotive location on Creamery Way (formerly His Place) in Emmitsburg.

Trawick has been working on cars “since he could hold a wrench.” As a teenager, he built his first car behind his dad’s shed, so he had something to drive, a gray 1979 Mustang.

To gain auto repair experience, he worked at various auto shops in Frederick while in high school. Then, he attended Lincoln Tech to earn his certificate in auto repair. Today, he’s a master certified ASE technician with a Maryland State Inspection license. Transmissions, brakes, and more, Trawick prides himself on being a pretty good diagnostic technician. He said, “I like a problem. I like to see if I can fix it.”

Trawick is joined by Gwen Delauter, Jesse Johnson, Dennis Smith, and Brady McKenzie (student) to provide any, and all, general auto repair, to include anything from tire repairs to engine replacements and advanced diagnostics.

“The community is awesome. I’ve gotten to know the businesses and I’m a fan. The community and first responders are important, and we support them,” said Trawick.

There are five locations of Dynamic Automotive: New Market, Urbana, Libertytown, Emmitsburg, and Frederick.

Dynamic Automotive has earned Frederick Magazine “Best of Frederick” designations for several years.

Dynamic’s hours are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Customers can schedule service online at www.dynamicautomotive.net/emmitsburg/or by calling 301-447-2800. Night drop is available.

Pictured are Jesse Johnson, Gwen Delauter, and Adam Trawick of Dynamic Automotive in Emmitsburg.

An Over-50-Year Tradition of Comprehensive Dental Care Continues at Catoctin Dental

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Dr. Richard Love has been an integral part of the Catoctin community, taking care of generations of dental patients over the last 39 years. While not quite ready to hang up his coat and retire, Dr. Love has passed the torch of ownership of one of Thurmont’s oldest dental practices to Dr. Neil Feldman.

Dr. Feldman and Dr. Love met in early 2020 at a Frederick County Dental Society meeting. Dr. Feldman had been living in Baltimore, while practicing in Harford County for several years. He and his wife were looking forward to moving to Frederick County to be closer to their families and start a practice of their own. Dr. Feldman asked Dr. Love about his office and, over the next several months, learned more about Thurmont and the history of the office.

Dr. Love began practicing dentistry in Glen Burnie before returning to his hometown of Thurmont in 1983 and purchasing the practice at 10 Water Street from Dr. John Doll. In January 2021, Dr. Feldman continued the tradition and became the latest owner. Now, Dr. Feldman and his predecessor Dr. Love work together at Catoctin Dental to treat their patients and serve our community. Working alongside Dr. Love not only helped Dr. Feldman learn more about his new patients, office, and surroundings, it helped him ease into another important role. Just one month after joining the Thurmont community, Dr. Feldman became a father, as his wife, Halley, gave birth to their twins, Clark and Julie, at Frederick Health Hospital. “It all happened at the same time!” Dr. Feldman laughed, while adding, “I was so lucky to have Dr. Love and my new staff there to keep things running smoothly.” The twins are now over a year old and love showing off their new smiles as more and more teeth come in. You can be sure that they’re learning proper dental hygiene early in life.

Though from different generations, Dr. Feldman and Dr. Love have a lot in common. Both are Maryland natives and graduates of small local colleges. Dr. Love attended Catoctin High School and Western Maryland College (renamed McDaniel College) in Westminster, while Dr. Feldman is a Westminster High School and St. Mary’s College of Maryland alum. Both are graduates of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry in Baltimore, the world’s oldest dental school. Both also strongly believe in the importance of staying current on the latest dental procedures. Dr. Love and Dr. Feldman have both attained Fellowship status in the Academy of General Dentistry, a recognition requiring over 500 hours of continuing education and a rigorous certification exam.

The two professionals have a solid relationship in which they share many core values and philosophies relating to dentistry and patient care. Together, their knowledge serves to further expand the variety of services offered at Catoctin Dental. Dr. Feldman said, “There are some things that I do that Dr. Love used to refer out, and I look forward to learning even more from his years of experience.” Catoctin Dental offers something for all ages and levels of care, including routine preventive exams and cleanings, emergency appointments, extractions, implants, Invisalign, root canals, dentures, and all other aspects of general and cosmetic dentistry.

 “I want to thank the community for being so welcoming to me and my family,” Dr. Feldman said with a smile. “Thurmont is a great place. Everyone has been so kind.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Feldman and Dr. Love, call Catoctin Dental at 301-271-2811. The office, located at 10 Water Street in Thurmont, is open Monday through Thursday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Check out Catoctin Dental’s advertisement on page 72 for more information.

Dr. Feldman is shown with his wife Halley and twins julie and Clark.

Dr. Feldman reads to his twins, Julie and Clark.

Thurmont Welcomes H&M Wheel Solutions

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The Town of Thurmont welcomed H&M Wheel Solutions on March 12. H&M Wheel Solutions is owned by two best friends since high school, Danny Hanagan and Casey Marshall (“H&M”), and they specialize in wheel repair, restoration, powder coating, and refinishing.

Repair services include welding and crack repair and straightening to factory specifications.

Can’t get to H&M Wheel solutions? No problem! They can come to you with their mobile unit! H&M Wheel Solutions serves Frederick, Washington, and Montgomery Counties.

H&M Wheel Solutions is located at 9 Woodside Drive in Thurmont. Contact them at 301-337-9962 or visit www.hmwheelsolutions.com.

Pictured from left are: (back row) H&M Wheel Solutions Manager Justin Linck; Owners, Danny Hanagan and Casey Marshall; Mayor John Kinnaird; Commissioner Wayne Hooper; (front row) Charlotte, Eleanor, Jasper, Cameron, Jaxson, and Devin.Courtesy P

Tuscany’s Pizzeria Opens in Emmitsburg

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Blair Garrett

Emmitsburg’s newest restaurant has officially opened its doors, giving patrons a piece of Italy, one slice at a time.

Tuscany’s Pizzeria and Italian Ristorante on the square in Emmitsburg made its grand entrance on February 23, with Emmitsburg Mayor Don Briggs helping to unveil the town’s newest family-owned business.

The ristorante is owned and operated by a tight-knit team, and they’re excited to start dishing out authentic Italian meals to locals who are itching for a new great place to eat.

The shop is run by owner Cesar Ramos and four brothers, all who play their part in making Tuscany’s into a hopefully thriving business.

“We wanted to give people a place in town they could stop by and enjoy and see if we could give people what they want and deserve,” Ramos said.

Owning a restaurant runs in the family for the Tuscany’s.

“Most of my family has been running restaurants since the 1980s,” Ramos said.

That experience offers Ramos and his team something to lean on while they get everything moving at full capacity.

They’ve absorbed as much information as they can to be successful, and that hard work looks like it’s paying off already.

“Since we moved to this country, we’ve been working with a family who has taught us everything about this business,” Kelvin Martinez said.

Tuscany’s offers a variety of Italian favorites, but their specialty is in their pizza. They’ve got over a dozen styles of gourmet pizzas, with each option as unique as the next.

The new ristorante takes over the shop where Stavros Pizza used to be, with the hopes to continue to bring great pizza to the people of Emmitsburg.

“We want to give people something different and something new from what this restaurant used to be,” Ramos said. “We come in with a new name, new ownership, new menu, and new ingredients. We’re trying to give people the best we can do.”

The team is offering a variety of foods that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Between the assortment of hot subs, Sicilian pizzas, and house favorites, it’ll be tough to narrow down which specialty meal you like best.

Despite only being here a short time, the crew at Tuscany’s already feels a connection to this town.

“We’re Catholic, so we would come to town sometimes to see Mount St. Mary’s soccer and basketball games, and we support them,” Kelvin Martinez said. “We would always see this town and we really liked it, and the people are always very nice, too.”

Catch Tuscany’s Pizzeria at the square in Emmitsburg to try out some of their specialty dishes.

You can find more information online through their Facebook at: facebook.com/TuscanysEmmitsburg.

Enrique Martinez, Kelvin Martinez, Cesar Ramos, and Yusthin Martinez represent Tuscany’s Pizzeria, the newest restaurant in Emmitsburg.

Photo by Blair Garrett

Slow Progress Toward a Royal Farms Store

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James Rada, Jr.

As the Rutter’s in Emmitsburg begins to take shape, people have wondered if another Rutter’s is going to be built on the old Shamrock property along Route 15.

The 2.7-acre property sold last year to Two Farms, Inc. of Baltimore for just under $4 million. Two Farms is a holding company for properties for Royal Farm Stores.

Royal Farms is a convenience store/gas station chain, much like Sheetz and Rutter’s. It is well known for its fresh-cooked chicken. The chain has been around since 1959 and has 205 locations in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

Plans for how the Farm Store will look and what it will offer are up in the air. At one point a truck stop was proposed, which Frederick County quickly shot down because it does not allow truck stops.

The Town of Thurmont approached Two Farms about possibly annexing the property so that it could be connected to the municipal water and sewer systems. However, Two Farms believes the well and septic system on the property will be sufficient.

The building is currently having any asbestos removed and is expected to be demolished this spring, according to communications between Two Farms and the Town of Thurmont. Site work could begin this summer.

The Royal Farms Store is expected to be built between the old Shamrock restaurant and Franklinville Road. Traffic flow in and out of the location and across Route 15 is expected to complicate things. It is believed that the Franklinville Road crossover of Route 15 will have to be closed and northbound traffic rerouted to Route 15. This has yet to be determined, though, as things still seem in the early stages

These Businesses “Make Thurmont Proud”

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James Rada, Jr.

Thurmont recently recognized its business all-stars with the “You Make Thurmont Proud” Awards. The awards recognized businesses and individuals who “exceeded or excelled at a county, state, or national level,” Thurmont Economic Development Manager Vickie Grinder told the Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners.

The first set of awardees came from the Frederick County Office of Economic Development that recognized the top 50 young professionals under 40. Thurmont had two representatives on the list: Alex Uphold with State Farm Insurance; and Amber Seiss with Gateway Candyland, Gateway Liquors, and Farmhouse Exchange.

Seiss told the commissioners that people had told her that she was too young, that she was a bad person, and/or that she wouldn’t make it in business. She said that she considers the naysayers “white noise.”

“It’s a distraction, something that is a waste of energy,” Seiss said.

She focuses on the positive and surrounds herself with people who build her up rather than tear her down.

The next pair of awardees were businesses that received national recognition: Kountry Kitchen was named the Best Chicken in Maryland in 2021 by MSN;          Playground Specialist’s Tim Boyle was named the National Playworld Representative of the Year.

Grinder then listed the various Thurmont businesses that were finalists in the Frederick News Post’s Best of the Best awards:

Best Festival—Catoctin Colorfest (2nd).

Best Company to Work For—Kountry Kitchen (2nd), Woodsboro Bank (3rd). “Two of the three best places to work for are right here in Thurmont,” Grinder said. “That needs to be duly noted.”

Best Barbeque—Bollinger’s Restaurant (2nd).

Best Buffet—Mountain Gate Family Restaurant (3rd).

Best Place to Camp (Regional)—Ole Mink Farm Recreation Resort (2nd).

Best Lodging—Springfield Manor (2nd).

Best Butcher Shop—Hill Side Turkey Farm (2nd).

Best Electric Contractor—G&S Electric (2nd).

Best Bingo—Thurmont Event Complex (3rd).

Best Chicken—Kountry Kitchen (2nd).

Best Local Band—5.5 Men (3rd).

Best Small Town—Thurmont (3rd). Grinder said she and some other municipalities complained to the Frederick News Post because Frederick was considered a small town for this category when it is clearly not. Frederick also took second place, so Grinder said in her mind, Thurmont was actually second.

Next, Grinder went through the local businesses that actually won their categories and were named Frederick’s Best of the Best:

•    Best Tree Service—Baker’s Tree Service (four years in a row).

•    Best Pick-Your-Own Farm/Orchard—Catoctin Mountain Orchard.

•    Best Winery, Distillery, Brewery—Springfield Manor.

•    Best Wedding Venue—Springfield Manor.

•    Best Wine Drink—Springfield Manor’s Farmhouse White.

•    Best Candy Shop—Gateway Candyland.

•    Best Orthodontist (Individual) —Dr. Jon Moles.

•    Best Funeral Home—Stauffer Funeral Homes.

•    Best Landscaping—Hawkins Landscaping (seven years in a row).

•      Best Place to Camp—Cunningham Falls State Park (four years in a row). Park Manager Mark Spurrier told the commissioners, “It’s your park. It’s our park, and everything we do in it is for you in the community and visitors that come to us.”

•      Best Bank—Woodsboro Bank.

Finally, Grinder made a special award called the Community Heart Award. It was given to Kountry Kitchen for their work in providing area students meals while the schools were closed.

The Kountry Kitchen restaurant was providing between 125 and 175 meals a day during the pandemic lockdown.

You Make Thurmont Proud Award recipients (from left): (front row) Mark Spurrier—Cunningham Falls State Park; Sherry and Rob Myers—Thurmont Kountry Kitchen; Alex Uphold—State Farm Insurance; David Hawkins—Hawkins Landscaping; Amber Seiss—Gateway Candyland; Angie Simmons, Stephen Heine, Hannah Smith—Woodsboro Bank; Commissioner Wes Hamrick from Stauffer Funeral Homes; (second row) Thurmont Commissioners Bill Buehrer and Wayne Hooper; Mayor John Kinnaird; and Commissioner Bill Blakeslee.

Maryland Workforce Development Career Fair Held

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Deb Abraham Spalding

The Maryland Workforce Development Division partnered with several agencies and businesses to provide a career fair on January 11, 2022, at the Thurmont Event Complex.

At the career fair, employers were seeking part-time, remote, and full-time job applicants, and applicants were looking for great opportunities.

Theresa Mena, the regional business solutions consultant with the Maryland Department of Labor’s Division of Workforce Development said, “There’s a great turnout. I’m thankful to Thurmont Ambulance for making the facility available, so we can support our employers in their quest to find job seekers. My goal [for the career fair] is to provide the bridge so employers can find applicants they’re looking for.”

“If you’re looking for a job or job applicants, don’t forget to register yourself, or your business, in the Maryland Workforce Exchange, so we can help connect you with opportunities. That’s the first step in transforming your life,” Mena explained.

Yolanda Faust with Rutters (will be located along Route 15 where Shamrock used to be) said she was looking for “retail, as well as food service team members with first, second, and third shift availability starting out at $16.00 per hour.”

Brian Fitzsimmons, Facility Administrator on TJ Drive at DaVita, a dialysis company, was looking for nurses and techs in a full-time capacity. DaVita has three clinics in Frederick (Thomas Johnson Drive, Golden Mile, Ballenger Creek), as well as Carroll County, Westminster, Mt. Airy, and Hagerstown.

Thelma Lehmann, Human Resources Administrator with the Frederick YMCA, was looking for childcare, youth center, and aquatics applicants.

Brittney Rowse with Structural, LLC, located in Thurmont, was seeking full-time applicants at the fair.

The Flood Department out of Mt. Airy performs emergency water removal services and was seeking full-time applicants.

Jodee Rudy of In-home Health Care was hiring full- and part-time 24-hour in-home caregivers to work in Frederick, Washington, and Carroll Counties.

Lexie with NVR said, “I’m hiring for manufacturing laborers to build houses.” See the NVR advertisement on page 12 of this edition of The Catoctin Banner to learn how to apply.

Other vendors at the fair included Frederick County Public Schools, Frederick Health, Amazon, Western Maryland Hospital Center, Frederick Police, and more.

Participants signed up online in the Maryland Workforce Exchange. By attending the career fair, it counts as a reemployment activity for the applicant.

James Marchinke is a Maryland State employment rep, covering Garrett, Frederick, Allegheny, and Washington Counties, helping Veterans get employed. He partnered with the Maryland Workforce Exchange to reach Veterans seeking employment.

Marchinke reminded us, “A resume won’t get you a job, a resume will get you an interview. It’s up to the applicant to sell themselves at the interview.”

Job seekers visit with employers during the career fair.

Beard’s Trash Provides 50 Years of Service

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Blair Garrett

From humble beginnings to a 50-year business, Beard’s Trash Service in Thurmont celebrates a huge milestone.

The desire to make a successful business that your family can inherit is not uncommon. However, the ability to make it a reality is a whole different story.

Beard’s Trash Service is a family-owned business that epitomizes what it means to be hard-working, along with putting in the hours necessary to be successful.

Richard, Pam, and Luke Beard still run the day-to-day operations for Beard’s Trash, but it’s hard to forget their roots in the company.

“My mother-in-law, Ada Beard, started the company in 1972,” owner Pam Beard said. “She started it in a Ford F-150 pickup with wood sides.”

Starting off by herself, she soon needed help with the growing clientele base.

“She would pick up household trash, pick up papers, and all that for $3.00 a month,” Pam said. “She eventually started getting a lot more customers, so my husband started helping her on weekends.”

The world has changed a lot since 1972, but Beard’s Trash Service’s quality service is still a staple of the business.

Beard’s has seen significant growth from its Ford F-150 days, with a much-expanded team that still provides the same person-to-person service.

“Now we have three big garbage trucks, three employees on the trucks, and three people in the office,” Pam said.

The crew runs the routes solo and covers a tremendous area several times a week.

“We run the majority of Frederick County, and we run Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday,” Pam explained. “We help over 3,000 customers and have over 200 dumpsters we service in Frederick County.”

The hours are long, but sometimes that’s what it takes to push a family business to the next level. “They start running at 1:00 a.m. and pick up for residences and dumpsters until 1:00 or 2:00 in the afternoon,” Pam said.

It’s been a remarkable 50 years for the company, and the community support has kept them going for the past five decades.

“We just want to thank all our loyal customers who have been with us for years,” Richard said.

Local businesses have a way of giving back to the community in a way that huge corporations just can’t match. When customers keep supporting a business run by a family that lives within that community, a huge portion of their profits are re-invested back into that area. A community thrives when everyone succeeds.

Five decades of providing local trash pickup service is impressive, and Beard’s Trash Service keeping the business in the family for so long holds significant value to them.

“It means a lot to be around 50 years because it’s spanned three generations,” Pam said. “My mother-in-law started it, and then my husband has worked there for years, and then once he retires, my son will be taking it all over.”

There’s something special about passing your business down to your children, knowing they will keep it going with the same care and attention that was given to it when it was started.

The Beards are proud of their milestone, but Pam’s message to the community remains the same. “If anyone wants good family service, give us a call.”

Richard Beard and his son, Luke Beard, proudly show their American spirit with their newest truck and logo. You can’t miss a Beard’s Trash truck! Courtesy Photo

Catoctin High School Recognizes Its Distinguished Alumni

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James Rada, Jr.

Catoctin High School (CHS) recognized its graduates who have gone on to find success post-high school during its 6th Annual Distinguished Graduates Induction Ceremony in November 2021.

Principal Jennifer Clements told the audience, “Catoctin High School is a place of deep roots and strong traditions. Our history is so rich because of the incredible staff and students who have walked these halls, making a positive impact on our school and our community.”

It is that tradition and those people that the school celebrates with its Distinguished Graduate Program. The Catoctin High School Distinguished Graduate Organization was formed in 2015 to honor alumni in the areas of academics, arts and humanities, athletics, business, and public service.

The 2021 program recognized alumni from the arts and humanities, academics, and public service sectors. It also recognized two former CHS staff members.

Former teacher, John Koepke, taught, coached, and advised students at CHS for 35 years. During the program, he passed on some advice from his father to the students in attendance. “Life is full of cool moments. Enjoy the cool moments.”

He also shared some advice from Dr. Jack Graham, a Texas pastor, and it was to PACE yourself through life. However, Koepke added his own words for the acronym.

Patience helps peace.

Acceptance helps attitude.

Confidence helps commitment.

Embrace encouragement.

Rebecca Chaney, Class of 1982, was the arts and entertainment inductee. She is an author, speaker, and livestock and dairy judging coach. Her twin daughters, Sheridan and Rianna Chaney, who are seniors at CHS introduced their mother.

“You need to remember to dream big,” Cheney told the students. “Never waver from your dream and goals. With hard work and determination, you can achieve incredible things in this life.”

Brian Haines, Class of 2000, was the academics inductee. He is currently an assistant principal scientist at Merck, working in regulatory affairs.

He told the students not to give up on their goals. However, you need to work to make them happen. “Dig in just a little harder and not give up after setting a goal,” Haines said.

Maria Smaldone, Class of 2010, was the public service inductee. Her professional career has been spent in social work, and she is currently the senior neighborhood resource coordinator at Neighborhood Housing Services in Baltimore. Her sister, Raphaela Smaldone, a CHS senior, introduced her.

She said, “My normal is probably not your normal…considering someone’s context (their normal) is critical to understanding their thoughts, their feelings, and their motivations.” She added that this understanding will help bridge “trust gaps” between people of different backgrounds. She urged the students to get to know someone with a different normal and listen to them and learn from them.

She also told students not to, “pigeonhole yourself too soon into what you think you’re good at or what you think is good for you. There are so many other things out there, and you are capable of so many other things than you can give yourself credit for.”

Curtis Howser, a former industrial arts teacher and school counselor for 44 years, was another former CHS staff inductee. He served as a counselor at CHS for 18 years.

He said. “Be part of the solution rather than someone who just talks about it.”

Pictured from left are: (standing) Curtis Howser, John Koepke, and Bryan Haines; (seated) Maria Smaldone and Rebecca Chaney.

Photo by James Rada, Jr.

Thurmont Postmaster Retires

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Deb Abraham Spalding

Jim Adams (pictured right), Postmaster at the Thurmont Post Office, officially retires on November 30, 2021, after 22 years with the United States Postal Service.

While retirement will provide Jim with more time with family and opportunity for travel, that doesn’t mean he won’t miss the great team of postal workers at the Thurmont Post Office. About them he said, “I’ve been very blessed, and I will never ever take them for granted.”

He explained, “I don’t care what the challenge is from one day to the next, we all pull together and get the job done each and every day.”

With the cumulative goal for postal workers being to get a letter or a package from its point of origin to its destination as efficiently as possible, Jim said, “Our focus is to be fully engaged and providing nothing but outstanding service to our customers, and each and every member of our team has the same commitment and focus every day they come to work.”

Jim is one of six children and was raised in Elyria, Ohio. While working his way through college at Cleveland State University, Jim lost his job and moved in with his sister and brother-in-law in Baltimore, where work was plentiful.

With a fresh degree in psychology from UMBC, it was the degree, not the field of study that charted his postal career. “There wasn’t a tremendous amount of opportunity with that degree,” he explained.

While living in New Market, Maryland, he responded to a big “Help Wanted” banner in front of the post office and was hired as a rural carrier associate by Pat Sortino. Pat served as a mentor and nudged Jim along as he worked his way up towards management.

He rose within the profession, serving as the Retail and Bulk Mail Supervisor in Frederick, Officer in Charge of the Rocky Ridge Post Office, and then left there for an Associates Supervisor program where he received very extensive postal training.

He started his management career as a level 15 supervisor at the Hagerstown Post Office. After about seven years, opportunity knocked again, and Jim went to Frederick.

The piece that was missing in his career was retail, but his bulk mail experience in Frederick set a foundation for his move to Thurmont.

After 11 years at Thurmont, the step for retirement is now. “I have five grandchildren who have me wrapped,” Jim said.

Family is important to Jim, he’s very close with his brothers and sisters, and they are celebrating his decision to retire right along with him.

Jim and his wife, Ellen, have a blended family, with his daughter Jessica and her three children, Ashley Brianna, and Curtis. Truly one family.

Jim is ready to celebrate family and already has trips planned to spend quality time together.

The plan for Jim’s replacement had not been announced at the time of this interview, but Jim assures that there will be a seamless transition for a new postmaster.

He said, “I only hope that as the Postmaster that I have provided outstanding customer service to each and every individual that I was responsible for in Thurmont, and also the Rocky Ridge, Sabillasville, and Cascade zip codes. It’s my hope that whoever comes in behind me has that same passion and that same focus of providing nothing but outstanding service. That’s all that we have to offer.”

Jim has been very passionate about the postal service.

“I was raised in a family where it’s always important to show appreciation. It’s been an honor and a pleasure.”

Photo by Deb Abraham Spalding

40th Anniversary of J&B Real Estate

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Deb Abraham Spalding

If you’ve lived in the Catoctin Region for any length of time, chances are high that you or one of your neighbors have used J&B Real Estate to buy or sell a home…maybe even more than once!

Through good economic times and bad, J&B Real Estate celebrates 40 years of service and a trusted reputation.

Bonita Smith, J&B’s founding Real Estate Broker, shared that while she and her husband Jim (late) were both raised in the Catoctin area (Jim was one of the Hillside Turkey Farm family), they moved back from Glen Burnie in 1981 and, soon after, started the firm. They operated the fledgling business out of their home on Emmitsburg Road in Thurmont. Though Bonita wanted the name to be “B&J Real Estate,” Jim suggested that “J&B Real Estate” would be more memorable because of “J&B Scotch.” The decision stuck.

The Smiths also had a seafood carryout business in Laurel that was operated with a partner. That business was sold a few years into the real estate venture, as the Smiths’ focus shifted to full-time real estate.

When they opened, Bonita was the broker and Jim was an agent. In the fall of 1981, J&B became incorporated, and in a few short years, the business was moved from their home to its current location in the former Weighbright Store at 13 ½ Water Street in Thurmont. In those days, Jim Bittner, Holly Clabaugh (late), and several other agents helped carve the solid foundation upon which J&B stands. Jim Bittner is still an active agent today.

In J&B’s tenure, locals have come to depend on J&B Real Estate’s vast experience to navigate the buying and selling process. Having roots, family, and heritage in Sabillasville, Emmitsburg, and Thurmont, the Smiths not only grew their business but also raised their daughters, Jennifer, Jamie, and Anne.

Bonita said that it was her plan to retire at age 50. At this 40th anniversary, she deserves some teasing since she still keeps a consistent part-time schedule as an active agent and Associate Broker, and she just might have passed the 50-year mark.

In January 2018, J&B was purchased by veteran J&B real estate agent, Cindy Grimes. Sadly, Jim Smith passed away on December 17, 2020.

Today, Cindy leads J&B’s continued success with 11 licensed agents, 9 of which are active. “We’re a hometown boutique brokerage,” she explained, “Though we’re not a big brand, we have just as much to offer.”

“I’ve been here for fifteen years and believe most of my success is because of her [Bonita]. They’ve [Jim and Bonita] always been good to me. I love it here. In the beginning, although I had a mortgage background, my knowledge of real estate was limited, and I was running Main Street Groomers [with her twin sister, Judy Cochran],” said Cindy.

“Holly [Clabaugh] was a great mentor, too,” Cindy added, “Though she passed away soon after I started, she was always very helpful and shared a ton of knowledge with me.”

Bonita laughed, remembering,  “Holly was in the office one day when Andy Rooney walked in to ask questions about Camp David. He wanted to know how much it was worth.”

Cindy shared that the J&B team has great camaraderie in the office. “You don’t feel competition, just support in the J&B office. It can be a very stressful career, but it’s very rewarding and it really helps when you work with such a great team of agents. It’s a customer-service job more than a sales job. We are most interested in what is best for our clients and doing the best job we can for them.”

A shared characteristic of J&B’s agents is that they know the area extremely well. Cindy said, “When someone calls, I typically know exactly what house they’re talking about if it is located in Northern Frederick County. We know so many people in the area. I think it makes people more comfortable.”

Cindy wants the community to know, “We’re not planning on going anywhere. We love this community and we’re here for you. As a small boutique brokerage, we try to offer a more personal experience for our clients.”

Today’s active agents include Cathi Miller, Diane Bowers, Bonita Smith, Cindy Grimes, Elle Smith, Beth Ohler, Vinny Testa, Jim Bittner, Deb Gartner (licensed in PA), and Vonnie Frazier. Most all of the agents are licensed in Maryland and Pennsylvania. Reach out directly to any of the J&B agents for more information or to buy or sell your home.

Standing from left are Judy Cochran, Cindy Grimes, Diane Bowers, Cathi Miller, Deb Gartner, Jennifer Phillips, Elle Smith, Beth Ohler, Vonnie Frazier, and Vinny Testa. Seated are Bonita Smith and Jim Bittner. Photo by Deb Abraham Spalding

Frederick Health Partners with Mount St. Mary’s University on New Healthcare Facility

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Frederick Health is pleased to announce the groundbreaking of a new, cutting-edge healthcare facility in Emmitsburg. This facility—which will be built and operated in partnership with Mount St. Mary’s University—will provide award-winning local care to residents of the area, staff, and students.

This facility will provide a wide range of healthcare services, focusing on prevention, treatment, and the overall wellness of the community. The development and construction of this facility will continue to improve access to quality care in the northern parts of Frederick County.

“The construction of the new Emmitsburg facility is yet another way of increasing access to the award-winning care provided by Frederick Health. These kinds of improvements help our neighbors and community grow healthier together,” said Tom Kleinhanzl, president & CEO of Frederick Health.

The facility, which broke ground on October 15, 2021, is expected to open to the public in June 2022. It will be the 23rd facility within Frederick Health’s expanding network.

“Bringing care to residents of the northern part of Frederick County is extremely important. As our county continues to grow, we must ensure that all Frederick County residents can receive quality medical treatment,” added Kleinhanzl.

Frederick Health was pleased to partner with Mount St. Mary’s University, an institution with nearly 215 years of history in the Frederick community. Under this partnership, Mount St. Mary’s University graciously donated the land upon which the facility will be built. This facility, which will be open to the general public and operated by Frederick Health, will also serve as the university’s new student health center.

Mount St. Mary’s first entered into a strategic healthcare partnership with Frederick Health in 2018, allowing for expansion and improvement of health and wellness services for students and student-athletes. “We have been very pleased with our partnership, which has become even stronger during the pandemic and was a major factor in our ability to have students living and learning on campus last year,” said Mount St. Mary’s President Timothy E. Trainor, Ph.D.

“As part of our commitment to our students’ and the local community’s health and well-being, the partnership has evolved to further improve services to our students and help bring needed healthcare services to Northern Frederick through this healthcare facility,” stated Trainor.

Lawyer’s Automotive Update

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Mark Breeden, owner of Lawyer’s Automotive in Thurmont, has announced the name transition from Lawyer’s Automotive to Breeden Automotive. With the transition, the logo and signage has been updated, but the quality of service remains the same.

Stop by to see Mark and his right-hand mechanic, Caden, for your car care needs.

October is Brakes for Breast Cancer campaign, during which Breeden Automotive will match your donation. View the advertisement on page 41 to find out how. Breeden Automotive is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Call 301-271-2736 for more information.

Young Workers Are an Important Piece for Businesses

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Jayden Myers

With the current unemployment situation and local businesses closing, a lot of places are understaffed and feeling the fallout of hard times.

As kids graduated middle school, entered high school, and became of age, many were eager to work. Many places may not want to hire younger kids because of lack of experience, age, or even because of the limited hours they are allowed to work.

However, many kids in these younger generations are hungry for an opportunity to work right now. This generation often has more to offer than what we are held responsible for.

Starting out in the workforce as a teen is quite terrifying at first, but eventually, you get the hang of it. Expect to make mistakes. It is okay to make mistakes, and you will learn from them and be able to improve.

I work in a restaurant, and I know my first few weeks consisted of many mistakes, yet I learned from them and improved each week.

Communication is a big thing. If you don’t communicate with your coworkers or boss for help, or in general, it can be hard to adjust. Make sure that your boss knows ahead of time if you need days off.

When first starting out, working around the schedule can definitely be a tough one. Though eventually, you’ll get into a routine and it will get easier. It helps to know when the routine is going to change, so you don’t get too overwhelmed.

A routine helps organize your everyday life and often gives younger workers the structure they need to succeed inside the classroom, as well as in their personal endeavors.

Balancing work and school is definitely hard sometimes. This is why communication is a big one in the workplace. Make sure that you stay on top of school work, so you don’t fall behind. Also, make sure that your work doesn’t interfere with school-related activities. That balance is sometimes overlooked, but incredibly important.

Although this sometimes lack of flexibility can be hard for employers, hiring teenagers can be beneficial. It allows them to learn new responsibilities, expand their knowledge, and obtain better communication skills. This is important because it gives them a chance to experience the workforce and to grow. It gives them a start for future jobs as well.

Personally, working has given me a great opportunity to grow as a person. It has allowed me to become part of a team, to work with others, become more independent, and have more responsibility.

My coworkers have truly become like family as we’ve worked together, and they’ve taught me a lot of what I know now. This has allowed me to build my work ethic.

Young adults starting work can open many opportunities for them in their future as they continue growing and learning. That structure and camaraderie have been important for me and thousands of others who share that same drive.

Come on in!

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Deb Abraham Spalding

The new and former owners at Hobbs Hardware and Lumber in Thurmont invite the general public and general contractors to, “Come on In!”

In a time where small businesses everywhere are struggling to maintain a grasp on viability, it’s even more rare to find a successful small hardware store that is still thriving in the face of big-box hardware store competition. Hobbs Hardware is THAT rarity!

Hobbs Hardware recently became Hobbs Hardware and Lumber when it was purchased by Structural LLC. Structural is a commercial business located in Thurmont, where they have 50 acres of lumber. Voila! With this transition, Scott Austin, CEO of Structural, accomplished several goals: He expanded the product line at Hobbs, he brought a backbone of contract business that allowed pricing to become competitive with the big-box hardware store pricing, and he proudly maintained the historical integrity of the business by continuing the name and employing its heritage with Eddie and Mike Hobbs manning the store. Austin said, “They [Eddie and Mike] are the brains, they have all of the experience.”

The Hobbs family has a deep history in the community. The family purchased the hardware store in 1942 from Sam Long, who had already logged 40 years in the Thurmont business. According to John Kinnaird and courtesy of ThurmontImages.com, “The hardware store has been in the Hobbs family for four generations: Edward G. Hobbs and Louise F. Hobbs (Eddie and Mike’s dad and mom) had the hardware store and a grocery store, E. Guy Hobbs and Lillian Hobbs (Eddie and Mike’s grandparents who bought the grocery and hardware stores in 1942.) Eddie and Mike Hobbs stepped in in high school and have kept it going since.”

Hobbs Hardware has occupied other locations in Thurmont but has been in the current location at 15 E. Main Street since 1981.

Scott Austin is originally from Buffalo, New York, but lives in New Market, Maryland, now. He’s been the owner of Structural LLC since 2010. Structural Systems has been in business since 1992.

Austin eyed up the Hobbs Hardware business to complement a need within the Structural business to add residential products. They were getting a lot of requests for lumber and didn’t have a way of selling lumber because they are manufacturing it. The solution was to keep the hardware part at Hobbs and to merge the lumber there.

Austin said, “It is a partnership, and they work very well together. We are here to service the community through our hardware store, and we are continuing to grow the Hobbs tradition.”

Eddie and Mike Hobbs are joined by several new faces, General Manager Rob Baker and Chad Crane.

Hobbs Hardware and Lumber is a handyman’s playland with lumber, lots of power tools, and tons of contractor-friendly inventory. Residents, small builders, and contractors are welcome to shop at Hobbs to get lumber for basements, decks, additions, etc. Hobbs delivers as far as Northern Virginia, actually up to 100 miles away!

Hobbs is open 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday. Call 301-271-2233 for product inquiries and more information.

Pictured from left are Eddie Hobbs, Scott Austin,  Mike Hobbs, and Chad Crane at the new checkout counter at Hobbs Hardware and Lumber in Thurmont.

Hobbs Hardware store in 1980.

Black’s Is a Familiar Name in Thurmont Funeral Services

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James Rada, Jr.

At a time when people are at their lowest because a loved one has died, Colt Black is there to help.

“I was always interested in a profession where I could help people, and a funeral director can help people when they most need it,” said Black, who owns Black’s Funeral Home in Thurmont.

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because funeral services runs in Black’s blood. His great-great uncle, Elmer Black, owned Black’s Undertaking in Thurmont in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

After graduating Catoctin High School, Black enrolled in mortuary school at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. While studying in Pittsburgh, he also worked for a funeral home and a removal service. He transferred to the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service in New York City and graduated in 2009 with his degree in funeral service. He then served an apprenticeship in Western Maryland before getting licensed in 2010.

He wanted to stay in this area with his family, but he couldn’t find work as a funeral director.

“I wound up subcontracting with funeral homes to pick up bodies and embalm them,” Black said.

He also got licensed in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Delaware so that he could increase the area he serviced. He even leased a colleague’s facility in Westminster to offer cremation services.

Even with a place of business, he soon discovered that people didn’t consider it a “real” funeral home because there was no place for viewing or funerals.

“In 2016, an opportunity came up to allow me to start out on my own,” Black said. He rented out the old Woodsboro Bank space in the Thurmont Plaza on N. Church Street.

“It hadn’t been occupied in 10 years, and it was in bad shape,” Black said. “Dad and I did most of the demolition.”

The entire inside needed to be gutted and then remade into a place where families and friends could feel at peace when attending a viewing. Because of the thickness of the walls around the old vault, Black decided that instead of removing it, to take the door off and turn it into a nice waiting room.

“We have as nice a space now as any other funeral home in Northern Frederick County,” Black said. “We have everything we need to hold any service anyone needs.”

Besides typical funerals and viewings, they offer cremation, mortuary shipping, pet services, DNA recovery, pregnancy loss, and Jewish funeral services.

Although proud of his facility, Black said that isn’t what makes a funeral home stand out. “What really counts is the service you render and how the family is treated,” he said.

Black’s Funeral Home can create online memorials, tribute videos, flowers, grief-support emails, and more.

“We are personable, compassionate, and efficient,” Black said. “Families need that when they have had a family member die.”

Funeral service room in Black’s Funeral Home in Thurmont.

St. Joseph’s Place Closing November 1

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James Rada, Jr.

Ascension Living St. Joseph’s Place, located in the Daughters of Charity building on South Seton Avenue in Emmitsburg, will be closing its doors to residents who aren’t Catholic sisters on November 1, 2021. About half of the current 40 residents are Daughters of Charity in need of skilled care.

“After thoughtful and prayerful discernment and discussions with the Daughters of Charity, we have decided to close Ascension Living St. Joseph’s Place…,” Molly Gaus, Ascension Living vice president of marketing and communications wrote in a statement.

The process of finding a new place to live for residents has started, and Gaus believes that there are enough places within a short drive where they can be moved.

“As we go through this transition, our top priority will be taking care of our residents and their families, as well as our valued associates,” Gaus wrote. “Our team will coordinate the transition of all current non-Daughters skilled nursing residents to an appropriate community of their choice.”

While that may be, Emmitsburg Mayor Don Briggs said that having high-quality nursing care services in town was convenient for many people.

The St. Joseph’s Place website (which oddly still allows visitors to schedule tours) boasts of the “outdoor gardens complete with a fireplace and putting green, pleasant dining rooms, personalized service, and a feeling of family. Plus, you’ll benefit from an array of social, educational, wellness, and spiritual opportunities, and much more.”

Once the non-sister residents are moved out, the Daughters of Charity will take over the care of their older sisters.

“Along with our decision to close the community, the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, Province of St. Louise, have decided to explore alternative means to provide assisted living and skilled nursing arrangements for the Sisters who live at Ascension Living St. Joseph’s Place and transform the use of the campus, which is owned by Daughters of Charity Ministries, Inc.,” Gaus wrote.

St. Joseph’s Place employs 116 people, about half of which are expected to be retained once the Daughters of Charity take over the operation. Briggs also said that 10-15 percent of the employees live in the Emmitsburg region.

“While it is a disappointment to see it close, hopefully, it will open up opportunities for lots of other things in that space that will benefit the town,” Briggs said.

The building currently holds the National Shrine of Elizabeth Ann Seton and the Daughters of Charity archives. Another wing is Seton Village low-cost senior housing, run by Homes for America. Mount St. Mary’s University also rents storage space in one wing.

The annual Mount Tabor Church Big Picnic and Baby Show was held on Saturday, August 14, at Mt. Tabor Park in Rocky Ridge, after being canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19. A total of 27 babies—18 girls and 9 boys—participated in the show. The youngest baby was nine-day-old Elijah Pescatore, son of Bryan and Brittany Pescatore of Keymar. Tylee and Leighton Kolb, twin daughters of Krista Kolb, traveled the farthest distance from Leesport, Pennsylvania.  Babies placed in three categories: prettiest girl, cutest boy, and chubbiest baby, in five age categories from 1 day to 24 months old.

There were five babies in the 1-day-to-3-month-old category. The prettiest girl was Saylor Gregory, six-week-old daughter of Danielle and Collin Gregory of Rocky Ridge. The cutest boy was Declan Green, one-month-old son of Travis and Elizabeth Green of Emmitsburg. The chubbiest baby was Kora Potts, three-month-old daughter of Kortney and Robert Potts of Fairfield, Pennsylvania. There was only one baby registered in the 4-to-6-month-old category. The cutest boy was Eli Myers, five-month-old son of Steve and Heidi Myers of Emmitsburg.

Of the six babies in the 7-to-12-month-old category, Addison Staub, 10-month-old daughter of Ashlea and Justin Staub of Thurmont, was judged the prettiest girl. The cutest boy was Michael Patterson, 11-month-old son of Sandy and Michael Patterson from Sykesville. Jolene Brewster, 8-month-old daughter of Charlotte and Peter Brewster of Keymar, was named the chubbiest baby. In the 13-to-18-month-old category, there were 10 babies. June Muse, 16-month-old daughter of Reanna and Hunter Muse of Middletown, was judged the prettiest girl. The cutest boy was Jaxton Hanson of Keymar, 16-month-old son of Emily and Nick Hanson. The chubbiest baby was Grayce Stitely, 14-month-old daughter of Hannah and Cody Stitely of Thurmont.

In the 19-to-24-month-old category, there were five babies. Hailey Wagner, 19-month-old daughter of Tammy Stone and David Wagner of Hagerstown, was named the prettiest girl. Mason Robert Lee Baugher, 19-month-old son of Brandy Garner and Curtis Baugher of Frederick, was named the cutest boy. The chubbiest baby was Coleson Mortorff, 23-month-old son of Deana and George Mortorff of Abbottstown, Pennsylvania.

Please come out again next year on the second Saturday of August to Mt. Tabor Park. You may register your baby (or babies) who range in age from 1 day up to 24 months, 0 days.  Watch your local newspaper for more details, including registration time.