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Thurmont Lions Club Community Event

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Along with District 22-W, the Thurmont Lions and Leo Clubs are sponsoring a community event for the public at the Thurmont Regional Library. This is a community event for all ages (adults and children). Student service hours are available. The event will be held April 6, from 1:30-4:30 p.m.

This is a hands-on project event, whereby, anyone can make: Linus fleece blankets, friendship bracelets, adopt-me bandanas for dogs, and spider cat toys; also painting with straws and finger painting.

The Thurmont Lions Club will supply materials and instructions with volunteer help. For more information, please contact Lion Dianne McLean at 410-206-1805.

Who Will Be the 2024 “Thurmont Volunteer of the Year”?

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Everyone must know someone who is making a difference to be nominated for this award!

The Thurmont Lions Club is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Volunteer of the Year. Nominate an individual(s) who is/are making a difference in the lives of others—working with children in the schools, helping at the food bank, a member of a service organization or church, a special neighbor who is always there to help whenever needed, and so forth. There are many, many individuals eligible for this honor. Please nominate those deserving individuals for the goodwill and volunteer services they give to help their community. These individuals are an asset to your community.

The volunteer service work must be done in the area of zip code 21788. Forms are available online at www.thurmontlionsclub.com or by contacting Lion Joyce Anthony at jananny@comcast.net. Nomination forms are due no later than April 15, 2024.

Send your completed nomination form to Lion Joyce Anthony, 31 Sylvia Circle, Thurmont, MD 21788, or to Thurmont Lions Club, P.O. Box 306, Thurmont, MD 21788, or email to jananny@comcast.net.

Club members are eligible to be nominated with the stipulation the MAJORITY (95 percent) of the volunteer services considered for the award must be performed outside of related Lions Club community service (e.g. church, school, community, another organization, etc.)

The Volunteer of the Year will be recognized and receive their award at a Thurmont Town meeting.

Dog and Cat Food Collection for Thurmont Food Bank

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During the month of February, local organizations, Thurmont Grange No. 409, Rocky Ridge Progressive 4-H Club, and BSA Scout Troops 270B and 270G joined together to collect dog and cat food to be donated to the Thurmont Food Bank.

Their combined efforts resulted in 311 pounds of dry dog and cat food, 28 cans of food, as well as cat litter, dog treats, and various dog and cat toys, being donated to the Food Bank. It is important to remember that pets are also family members, and we need to do what we can to make sure they also do not go hungry.

Pictured (from left) are Pastor Sally Joyner Giffin, Thurmont Food Bank Director; and Nancy Wine, Thurmont Granger and Food Bank volunteer.

Grange Hosts “Antique Roadshow”

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The Thurmont Grange No. 409 hosted its annual Antique Roadshow on Monday, March 11. This event is held each year to raise money for an individual or family in need or an organization’s cause.

This year, funds were donated to the Catoctin FFA Chapter’s trip to the 2024 National FFA Convention in Indianapolis. Several past FFA members attended the Roadshow and shared their experiences at National Convention and the impact the trip had on them.

Those in attendance brought a wide variety of antiques and collectibles to be evaluated by our local experts, Norman Feldser and Bill Eyler, who graciously volunteered their time and knowledge. Everything from a toy train and swords to a corn sheller and pocket watch, and everything in between, was examined and evaluated.

All the guests enjoyed listening to the stories and history behind these items and learning the potential value and professional opinions of both Norman and Bill. Our experts also shared local history and personal experiences related to many of the items. Catoctin High Ag teacher, Barry Birch, was present to receive the donation Thurmont Grange was able to raise, thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended the Roadshow.

Bill Eyler examines a crock belonging to Joe Pelkey, as Norman Feldser observes.

Students of Shenandoah Conservatory Give Free Concert

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Lynnelle Ediger, daughter of Dr. Ray Ediger of Thurmont, recently hosted three students of the Shenandoah Conservatory, who gave a free concert of harp, organ, and soprano solos at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Utica.

Pictured (from left) are Lynnelle Ediger, Anna Smith (harp, organ), Danielle Caldwell (harp), Serenity Flores (harp, soprano), and Karen Schlosser (piano accompanist).

Norman Elsworth Elsbree, Jr.

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September 27, 1939 – February 25, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Norman Elsworth Elsbree Jr., who peacefully left this world on February 25, 2024, at the age of 84. Norman was born on September 27, 1939, to proud parents, Norman Elsworth Elsbree Sr. and Marjorie Eleanor Elsbree nee Mathies.

Norman was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, whose kindness and patience touched the hearts of all who knew him. He proudly served his country as a Veteran in the U.S. Army, where he received many accolades, including a Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the prestigious Presidential Service Badge and Certificate.

Norman is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Diane, his children, Norman “Rusty” and his wife Melinda, Kim and her husband Andy, along with his beloved grandchildren (Josh and his wife Lisa, Rachel, and Hannah and her fiancé Tyler, and his great-granddaughter, Naomi), and other beloved family members. He was anxiously awaiting the birth of his second great-granddaughter in June. He was preceded in death by his son, Brian; his granddaughter Jessica; and his cherished cat, Coco.

While in the Army, he was a communications specialist at the White House, serving under the Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson administrations. Other than his pride for his family, this was one of his proudest accomplishments! After leaving the Army and White House, he was employed with the federal government at the Department of Energy until retiring in 1994.

A celebration of Norman’s life, complete with military honors, will be held on April 27, 2024 from 2:00-5:00 p.m., at Thurmont Grange #409, to honor his memory and the impact he had on all those around him.

His legacy of love, patriotism, and dedication will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him!

Gary Paul “Jake” Jagow

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June 25, 1949- December 6, 2023

Celebration of Life

Sunday, April 14, 1:00-4:00 p.m., Thurmont American Legion Hall

Light lunch, cash bar, music & memory-sharing

Gary Paul “Jake” Jagow, 74, of Littlestown, PA, passed away suddenly on December 6, 2023, from complications following emergency heart bypass surgery and RSV. That day, the angels recruited a new drummer for their heavenly rock & roll band.

Gary was born on June 25, 1949, in Niagara Falls, NY. He was the son of the late Victor Russel and Betty Louise (Wise) Jagow.

While at Thurmont High School, he kept the beat going as drummer for The Coachmen, a popular 60s rock & roll dance band, founded and managed by his father. After graduation in 1967, he began his career in radio at WTHU, when the station first went on the air. Gary then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where they were quick to recognize and utilize his radio talent. He worked for the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service while he was stationed in Greenland and Germany. After proudly serving his country, Gary returned home to continue his career at WTHU. He eventually went on to become a well-known radio personality with Frederick’s WFMD/WFRE stations. When syndication forever changed radio, Gary decided to change gears, to leave the studio confines for the freedom of the open road as a delivery driver for AmeriGas Propane.

Most recently after retirement, he was a Frederick County Meals on Wheels driver, where he loved all of his coworkers. He held a special place in his heart for the elderly folks he looked forward to seeing every day. His dedication and caring nature surely will be missed.

Throughout his work career, Gary continued to play drums or bass guitar in several prominent bands, including Don Barnes & The Countrymen and Full House.

Gary had a remarkably eclectic musical ear and enjoyed everything from rock, country, and jazz classics to German oompah and modern jazz. He also loved attending drum and bugle corps competitions. He volunteered in his younger years for a few weeks during the summer as a drum line assistant. He was also an avid animal lover, classic car enthusiast, and always enjoyed celebrating his family’s German heritage, especially during Oktoberfest season.

Gary is survived by his cherished life partner of 33 years, Harriette Mathews; his sister Gwen Leahy and husband Jerry of Wellsboro, PA; one nephew and niece; precious friends, Alban Little and Rocky Birely, plus countless other friends and band mates.

On January 26, 2024, Gary was inurned at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery with the full military honors he had earned and rightly deserved. Please join us as we celebrate his amazing life on Sunday, April 14, from 1:00-4:00 p.m., at the Thurmont American Legion.

Memorial donations may be made to Frederick County Meals on Wheels.

Jerry E. Ferson

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September 7, 1967 – February 29, 2024

Jerry E. Ferson, Jr., 56, of Thurmont, passed away on February 29, 2024, at Frederick Health Hospital in Frederick. He was the beloved husband of Patricia (Tomalewski) Ferson.

Born on September 7, 1967, in Sunnyside Washington, he was the son of Reverend Jerry E Ferson and Linda F (Radach) Ferson.

Jerry graduated from Lee University and worked as a sound engineer and videographer.

As a devoted husband and father, Jerry exemplified unwavering love and support for his family. He valued the moments spent with his boys, instilling in them integrity, perseverance, and kindness. He was a pillar within the Catoctin Youth Association (CYA) community. A leader and advocate, known for his love of football and commitment to the Thurmont youth. Throughout the years, Jerry’s involvement in youth sports included coaching, football coordinator, vice president of CYA Football, and a member of CYA Inc. He was the first one on the field on Saturday mornings for youth football and the last one to leave. No job was too small or insignificant. He was a constant encouragement for new coaches, and he would often help out or fill in until a permanent coach took over. On Friday nights, Jerry could be found in the high school announcers booth, recording the football and lacrosse games. Jerry will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the entire youth sports community.

In addition to his wife and parents, Jerry is survived by his sons, Wayne and Wyatt Ferson; sister Lee Ann Ferson-Roehl and husband Mike. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the Thurmont community for the tremendous outpouring of support that they have received. Words cannot effectively communicate how humbled and moved they are by your expression of love for Jerry. The words of encouragement and memories shared has strengthened them through this difficult time.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 9, at 11:00 a.m. at the Thurmont United Methodist Church, 13880 Long Road, Thurmont.

MSM Forges Out A Unique Class

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In the breadth of a single stanza, Longfellow evokes the image of two icons that have all but disappeared from our shared American experience: the village blacksmith and the American chestnut. Mount Saint Mary’s (MSM) is doing its bit to revive one of those icons by offering credited courses in blacksmithing.

MSM is in its second year of offering the course. There were six students the first year for just one class. This year, there are fifteen students in three classes. Each of the three classes meets once a week in the evening for four hours. One of the classes is an advanced class for the students who wanted to continue learning from the previous year.

As a testament to the class’s appeal, there is a waiting list forty-six students deep—and counting—for next year’s course.

The course is taught by Harold Green of Emmitsburg at his shop on Waynesboro Road. He prefers to be addressed simply as Harold. Initially reluctant to teach, Harold has been wowed by his students. He constantly comments on how enthusiastic his students are and what a pleasure it is to teach a skill to such eagerness.

When asked why they would take a course in such an old technology, senior math/computer science major Thomas Passaro simply expressed a desire to create something with his hands. That seemed to be the consensus of the others—a desire to create something tangible.

Annie Brennan, a neuroscience major from Northern Virginia, was one of the charter students of the first year. She’s in the advanced class this semester and helps Harold teach the class, all while learning the trade. She’s done well enough to have some of her work picked up to be sold in the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum’s gift shop in St. Augustine, Florida.

In watching Harold conduct his class, it’s easy to see the truth in his statement that his students have become friends. There is a continual, good-natured banter between student and teacher not often found in a typical classroom. His wife, Diane, often feeds the students.

After seventeen years, Harold retired from Camp David in 2016. He’s been a blacksmith for more than forty years. In a year’s time, he exhibits his skills and wares at as many as twenty-seven vendor shows, including Colorfest.

Harold’s shop, Horseshoe Forge & Ironworks, is located at 9245 Waynesboro Road, just west of Emmitsburg. Besides the items from the forge found in the gift shop, Harold is a farrier and does custom ironwork as well.

If you want to find him at Colorfest, you can find him up front in the town park near the tennis courts. Just listen for the ring of the anvil.

MSM blacksmithing instructor, Harold Green, in his Emmitsburg shop.

Annie Brennan demonstrates for the class.

Annie Brennan demonstrates for the class what the taper for a wall hook should look like.

Olivia Irvin, a Health Sciences junior from Calvert County, Maryland, starts forming a piece of bar stock that will become a wall hook.

Thomas Passaro discusses with Annie Brennan his progress with the wall hook project.

Attention All Graduating Seniors

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Are you looking for a scholarship? Check the Community Foundation of Frederick County (www.Frederick CountyGives.org) for the scholarships offered by the Thurmont High School Alumni Association.

The application’s new final date is April 15, 2024. You must be a graduating high school senior and related to someone that graduated from Thurmont High School or from Catoctin High School, classes of l969 to l974.

Then remind those that did graduate during those years that the annual alumni banquet will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the Thurmont Ambulance Event Complex. Any questions may be directed to Viola Noffsinger at 301-418-1760 or by email vmnoff@gmail.com

EHS Alumni Association Offers Scholarships

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The Emmitsburg High School Association is accepting Scholarship Applications. Four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded in May to deserving students. Any Catoctin High School senior or graduate who is enrolled in an institution of higher learning is eligible if he/she resides in the Emmitsburg School District. This includes Emmitsburg 21727, Rocky Ridge 21778, and Taneytown 21787 (Taneytown boundary is determined by Bridgeport on Rt. 140). Applicants may apply each year as long as they are enrolled in an institution of higher learning.

Selection is based on having a 3.0 or higher GPA, being a full-time student, presenting two letters of recommendation, and pursuing higher education (4-year college, community college or technical). No GPA is required for full-time technical school.

Applications may be obtained by contacting the Guidance Department at Catoctin High School (240-236-8082, Mike Marquez) or EHSA (443-677-5705, Vickie Frushour).

All applications must be received by May 1, 2024.

Catoctin High School Distinguished Graduate Organization Nomination Form

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The Distinguished Graduate Organization was established to recognize the graduates of Catoctin High School (CHS) who have made a difference locally, in the state, and/or in the nation. These men and women are nominated in five categories: Academics, Arts & Humanities, Athletics, Business, and Service (community, military, or public).

Nominated graduates will be mailed an application to complete. Honorees are selected from those applications returned to the committee. All nominees must be graduates of Catoctin High School. Students who attended CHS but did not graduate from CHS are not eligible for recognition.

The Distinguished Graduate Organization would also like to recognize former Catoctin staff members who have had a significant impact on the graduates of Catoctin High School. The community can nominate former cafeteria workers, custodians, instructional aides, secretaries, administrators, or teachers. The earliest a former staff member can be nominated is two years following their departure from CHS.

Please return completed Nomination Form by April 15: USPS—Catoctin Distinguished Graduate, 14745 Sabillasville Road, Thurmont, MD 21788; Fax—240-236-8101; Email—Rebecca.Hurley@fcps.org or Lacee.Andrew@fcps.org.

Nominees will then receive an application to be completed by May 15. The Distinguished Graduate Organization committee will determine the award recipients by June 21.

Catoctin High School Drama Department Presents Little Shop of Horrors

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Stephanie and Evan Felmet, Directors

This spring, the Catoctin High School (CHS) Drama Department is trying something a little different: a double cast show.

Little Shop of Horrors—the horror comedy rock musical—will take the CHS stage on April 18-20. The “Green” cast, led by George Hawkins and Colette Hartman-Carstensen as Seymour and Audrey, will perform on Thursday, April 18, at 7:00 p.m.,  and Saturday, April 20, at 7:00 p.m. The “Red” cast, led by Doug Whitworth and Anna Code in the same roles, will perform on Friday, April 19, at 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, April 20, at 1:00 p.m. Each main cast brings their own interpretation of the characters. The actors are encouraged to make their own acting and staging choices to ensure the performances are unique.

Creation of the various Audrey II puppets has taken months to complete. The man-eating plant begins as a small handheld puppet, then grows three times until it, and its grasping vines, take over most of the stage.

Meanwhile, the cast has been hard at work memorizing lines, practicing songs, and perfecting their dance steps. The crew has also been busy creating sets, lighting, and effects that will draw the audience into this bone-chilling story.

The show is rated PG-13 due to violence, substance abuse, and mild language.

What happens when a young florist finds a plant that’s out of this world?

Come find out at Catoctin High School on April 18-20.

Pictured (above) are George Hawkins, Colette Hartman-Carstensen, Doug Whitworth, and Anna Code.

A Cut Above the Rest!

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Danielle Jackson

Do you know where your food comes from? How is it processed? Or even packaged? A lot of people think that their food comes from a store. But how does it get there? What steps are taken to get it to your table? This is something that is slowly slipping away from younger generations today.

Today’s youth are not as educated about the agricultural industry and where their food comes from. But the Catoctin High School FFA Chapter in Thurmont has a passion for agriculture and teaching! They keep our youth informed, educated, and active in the agriculture industry.

Every year in February, the Catoctin High School FFA Chapter, the Catoctin FFA Alumni and Supporters Chapter, and surrounding community members all come together to participate in their annual hog butchering.

This year, the annual butchering was held on February 9 and took place in the agriculture area and agriculture classrooms at Catoctin High School. The day started around 7:00 a.m. and didn’t end until all the orders were processed and picked up. The Catoctin High School teachers, staff, and administration have always been so supportive of this tradition. Many teachers even bring their classes to the butchering. The butchering isn’t just an agricultural lesson or experience, it can be tied into other aspects of learning, too, such as math, science, photography, social studies, health, and history. Some of the teachers who bring their classes to visit create lesson plans and assignments based on the butchering. Math teachers will incorporate the scales and weighing of the processed meat into their assignments. Some science teachers will include the biology and chemistry of butchering in their lessons. Health teachers can incorporate how pork is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Any student who is part of the Catoctin High School FFA Chapter or in any ag class at the high school can participate in the butchering if their grades are eligible. Students help cut up meat, package meat, stuff sausage into casings and bags, and fill customer orders in the evening. By doing this, ag students actively experience the hard work that goes into a butchering, and they learn how food is processed and then put on their own tables. The experience also gives non-ag students at the school a new and better appreciation for agriculture.

Every year, the butchering continues to grow in more ways than one—in members, volunteers, and orders! There were about 120 total students, volunteers, and alumni members present, with 40 of those being FFA members. The students, members, and volunteers butchered 23 hogs, with an additional 3,000 lbs. of extra meat to fill over 300 orders.

We asked Amy Jo Poffenberger, one of the ag teachers and FFA Advisor at Catoctin High School, what her favorite part of butchering was every year. She said that her favorite part would have to be the sense of community, and everyone coming together to help with the entire day. This is Mrs. Poffenberger’s fourteenth year at Catoctin High School and her fourteenth butchering at the school.

We also spoke to Daniel Myers, who is a lifetime member of the Catoctin FFA Alumni and Supporters Chapter and head of the butchering committee. We asked him what he hopes this experience teaches the students at Catoctin High School. He said that he hopes it gives them all a better understanding of how their meat is processed and packaged, and that they know that food does not just come from a store.

Everyone who helped said that this year’s butchering was probably the best and smoothest-running butchering that they have ever had, and they hope that they can top it next year.

This event would not have been possible without the help of students and chapter members, alumni and supporters’ members, the staff of Catoctin High School, and the surrounding community members.

The Catoctin High School FFA Chapter hopes to keep this tradition alive for as long as possible and for generations to come.

Catoctin High School FFA members stuff sausage into casings.

Catoctin FFA Alumni, Supporters Chapter members, and community members work together to cut meat into portions to be processed.

Students from Catoctin High School take a tour and watch while Alumni and community members tend to the kettles.

2023-2024 CYA Basketball Season Recap

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Ryan Tokar, CYA Basketball

Dwight Baumgardner, Head Coach, Catoctin Middle School Girls Varsity

The 2023-2024 CYA Basketball season came to a thrilling end in early March. After months of rigorous practices and intense games, it was time for our players to showcase their skills in the end-of-season tournaments for their respective leagues. Our K-2 Instructional Clinic also came to a close, with all of the players learning a lot and having a bunch of fun in the process.

While many teams made serious runs throughout the playoff tournaments, only three were left standing to battle it out for a chance at a championship. From our MYBA Rec Program, CYA was represented by our U12 Boys, coached by Justus Yocum, and U16 Boys, coached by Keith Myers. The U12 Boys had an amazing run during the regular season, going undefeated. That momentum continued in the playoffs, as they remained hot all the way to the championship game. Unfortunately, some untimely injuries and a tough St. John’s team derailed their run, as they fell just short in the championship.

Likewise, the U16 team had an equally impressive regular season, fighting hard and working together to stay very competitive throughout against some very good competition. They, too, would make a solid run in the playoffs; but, like the U12 squad, they fell just short in the championship against Middletown. Despite these losses, both teams represented CYA Basketball well, and they should be extremely proud of their efforts.

On Sunday, March 3, the Catoctin Middle School Girls Varsity team defeated Linganore 39-35 to win the Mid-MD “AA” League Championship.  The team had an outstanding season, going 14-2 during the regular season.  They won their division with a 9-1 record. In the playoffs, the team defeated FSK in the quarterfinals by a score of 59-20. In the semifinals, they defeated Walkersville 46-35, and then beat the previously undefeated Linganore team in the championship to finish the year 17-2 overall. Olivia Hoyt and Sophia Burgee were named Co-MVPs for the playoff tournament.

Congrats to all of our teams on a successful season. We look forward to seeing everyone again next fall!

Mid-MD Girls Varsity celebrates winning the AA Tournament Championship.

Team members are: Ashlyn Vaughan,Caroline Hoyt,Chloe Mathias, Olivia Hoyt, Leah French, Madelynn Case, Madeline Whetzel, Sophia Burgee, Logynn Thomas, and Ivy Simon, with Head Coach Dwight Baumgardner (back, right) and Assistant Coach Tommy Hoyt. 

This is the third straight year the Catoctin Middle School Girls have won Mid-MD Championships.

CYA’s Boys 12U Team went undefeated during the regular season. Pictured (from left) are Coach John Veronie, Stiven Obest, James Clements, Sawyer Burrier, Deegan Beard, Nathanael Fountain, Jeremy Veronie, Weston Tyler, Dominic Jacobs, Daniel Genemans, Eli Yocum, and Coach Justus Yocum.

Hope Springs Eternal!

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Sports Talks with Michael Betterridge

Every year, at the beginning of every sports season—fall, winter, and spring—I find that I always have a pre-conceived narrative developed in my head about how the season will turn out before it even starts. And I am certain that the narrative will come to fruition simply because I love my Catoctin Cougars, and that kind of selfless and righteous loyalty and devotion must always be rewarded with success…in a fair world.

I envision a Cougars football team that blows through the opposition to a Cinderella state championship, like in a blizzard in 2009 or Doug Williams holding the championship trophy aloft in his final game in 2019. I dream of another repeat 2022 girls’ basketball team with freshmen Brooke Williams and sophomore Taylor Smith churning through the 1A, this time to win a State 1A championship. I dream of another carnival-like ride from Smithsburg to Bel Air and Deep Creek Lake to Waldorf in 2021, when we put 500 miles on the Cool Oldies 1450 radio wagon to win a state baseball championship against St. Michaels at Regency Furniture Stadium. It’s “poetry in motion” for dreamers like me.

But reality is the constant reminder that the world isn’t fair, and it levels the playing field for everyone.

At the end of the football season, our Catoctin Cougars football team led us down that primrose path to victory on the road in the playoffs, following a tough regular season to Loch Raven and then Patterson Mill. Could this be the year? And, then, Mountain Ridge ended the dream in Frostburg three days before Thanksgiving! There was nothing thankful about that resounding defeat that ended their season.

So, it was on to basketball. As they say, boys will be boys; and so it was with our boys’ basketball team, who play hard, but lose often.

The girls won out to Christmas, six wins in a row! Then, they ran into eventual 4A Maryland State Champion Clarksburg, who handed them their first defeat during the Christmas week tournament at Hood College. If you are going to lose, do it to the state champion of one of the largest schools in Maryland! And, then, 10 wins in a row to face a really good Linganore team for only their second loss of the season. A win at Middletown, and then a loss at Mountain Ridge, and there they were, positioned as the #2 seed in the 1A for a big run to College Park for the second time in three years.

They started the state tournament quarterfinals after six wins in a row against the No. 7 seed, Surrattsville. At 22:17 of the game, our announcers observed that Taylor Smith twisted her ankle. Taylor got up during the injury timeout and walked off the injury. We breathed a sigh of relief. They took her to the bench and checked her out as a safeguard. After the initial shock of the injury subsided, and Taylor relaxed on the bench, the trainer brought Taylor over to the area behind the bleachers to see how she was doing and to examine the injury more closely. We all thought it was an ankle injury, but when we saw the trainer examine Taylor, we realized this was a knee, not an ankle. As we watched, the trainer had Taylor do some deep knee bends and then jump. Taylor’s knee completely gave out on the jump and she sank to the ground in serious pain. And, we knew, this was not good. Sitting immediately to the left of my position at the broadcast table at courtside was Taylor’s softball coach, Jess Valentine. She saw the collapse, and I heard a gasp from Coach Jess in horror. She began to realize that the most valuable player on the 2024 Catoctin girls’ softball team, who had played to within one run of a state championship last year, had just experienced a potentially devastating year-ending knee injury. The narrative had taken a turn that was as far from our dreams as we could ever imagine.  Taylor had torn her ACL. I remember the eerie sound in the gym that night.  You could have heard a pin drop when Taylor collapsed on the floor in pain.  Coach Burdette, Coach Little, and I looked at each other at the broadcast table and our hearts sank. The basketball team lost its quarterback, and the softball team that was destined for a repeat state championship would soon be without its starting pitcher and one of its best hitters before it had even begun. The worst realization for all of us was that as the Lady Cougars destroyed Surrattsville, 55-18, in that pivotal game, they could have easily done it without Taylor, who would not have been injured. But, then, who knew?

The Lady Cougars basketball team lost in the next round to South Carroll, even though the team, without Taylor, played their hearts out. Taylor sat on the bench, along with her crutches, cheering her teammates on at Thomas Johnson High School in the 1A state semifinals.

It was such a devastating loss to our broadcast team, personally, that for the first time in 10 years, we did not go to College Park for the finals, even though the Oakdale girls and the Frederick boys were playing for championships. 

Congratulations to the Frederick boys on a MD 4A basketball State Championship, the lone Frederick County team to bring home a trophy from College Park this year. 

Year after year, we follow every Frederick County team to the state championships. This year, we would have broadcast the Oakdale girls in the 3A and the Frederick boys in the 4A, but we just didn’t have any desire to go there without our Lady Cougars after what happened to Taylor.

I guess, in retrospect, success is hollow without overcoming disappointments, and that’s why we play the games. They tell the stories of real life and not my fairy-tale sports dreams.

Taylor, we love you. Your heart, toughness, athleticism, and competitive spirit represent our hopes that spring eternal. I think I can speak for the entire community when I say that we are all praying for a quick and complete recovery. 

That was why it got so quiet in the gym that night…we were all praying for you!

Catoctin Furnace Historical Society Receives “Preserving America” Grant From Americana Corner

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Catoctin Furnace Historical Society has won a $7,500 grant from Americana Corner to restore a 19th century bellows.

CFHS was one of 171 historic preservation organizations across the country to receive a grant in honor of George Washington’s birthday.

The restored bellows will be used in the blacksmithing demonstration program held in Catoctin Furnace’s newly constructed blacksmith shop.

The bellows was manufactured circa 1875 to 1885 by J. C. Onions company in Birmingham, England, the preeminent bellows manufacturer of the day. The giant bellows measures five feet by three feet and is constructed of wood, tin, and leather. Blacksmiths use bellows to deliver a constant supply of oxygen to the fire, allowing for the high temperatures, which are required to heat iron to the point that it can be worked.

With the addition of the bellows, Catoctin Furnace has a full complement of 19th century blacksmithing tools.

Just as iron was arguably the most critical industry in the development of the early United States, blacksmiths were essential to the production of equipment and supplies, such as nails, hinges, hooks, wagon parts, and tools.

Late 18th and early 19th century blacksmiths in Catoctin Furnace were primarily enslaved and free Africans and African Americans. Research into the African American owned Moses Jones (1787-1868) blacksmith shop in Carroll County and the Felicity or Oakland Mills blacksmith shop in Howard County informed the design of Catoctin Furnace’s new blacksmith shop.

With the addition of this restored bellows, the blacksmith shop will become a platform to honor the contribution of blacksmithing to our history, revive the practice of the craft, and educate visitors about its importance. In addition, it will become an essential part of Catoctin Furnace’s Heritage at Work program geared toward work skills training for at-risk students.

Catoctin Furnace Historical Society shares the history of ironmaking through special events throughout the year, including an annual commemoration of black history month’s “In Their Own Voices,” an autumn performance of Spirits of the Furnace, now in its 21st year, and the Maryland Iron Festival.

The 6th Annual Maryland Iron Festival will take place on Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19, 2024, in the village of Catoctin Furnace, and throughout Cunningham Falls State Park and Catoctin Mountain Park. For more information, contact info@catoctinfurnace.org.

The Best Time to Start a Financial Plan is Now

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

Hi, I’m Tricia Bush, CPA, CFP®, and I’m here to share with you what I’ve learned from working with successful retirees to help lead you to your financial and retirement goals.

One of the overriding themes I’ve seen of those who have been successful is that they have developed a financial plan themselves or have worked with a financial advisor to create their financial plan.

So, how do you get started?

In the realm of financial planning, there’s no shortage of advice and strategies. From Dave Ramsey’s rapid debt payoff method to the notion of leveraging debt for investment—the options are endless. But amidst this sea of information, how do you determine what’s right for you? The answer lies in understanding your own financial goals and priorities.

Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you and your family. Are you feeling overwhelmed by credit card debt? Perhaps you’ve recently come into an inheritance and are faced with new investment decisions. Or, maybe retirement is looming, prompting a shift in your financial mindset. Each circumstance calls for a customized financial plan, tailored to your specific needs.

Once you’ve identified your priorities and envisioned your financial destination, the next step is to assess your current financial landscape.

In today’s world, it’s not uncommon to have accounts scattered across various institutions and platforms. While this setup may offer convenience, it can obscure your overall financial picture. Listing all these accounts in one place can provide a clearer view of your overall financial health. By calculating your net worth—total assets minus liabilities—you establish a baseline for progress.

With your financial baseline established, it’s time to examine your cash flow, commonly referred to as your budget. This serves as the bridge between your current situation and your financial goals. Maybe you have some discretionary income each month; yet, without a budget, it’s easy to fritter it away without a second thought. While the occasional splurge at Starbucks for that Venti Caramel Macchiato with the extra shot of espresso might seem harmless, aligning your spending with your priorities can lead to greater financial security.

For instance, if your top priority is saving for your child’s college education, earmarking those funds for a 529 plan can set you on the right path. A common theme I’ve seen with the successful retirees I’ve worked with is that they had a good handle on their budget.

One of the greatest benefits of having a financial plan is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that you’re on track to meet your retirement savings goals, or not pulling too much out of your retirement accounts, can alleviate stress and allow you to enjoy life’s pleasures without any guilt. However, just like sticking to an exercise routine, some individuals may find it challenging to stay motivated on their own. If financial planning feels daunting or you struggle to stay the course, consider seeking guidance from a financial advisor.

Contrary to popular belief, financial advisors aren’t just for the wealthy or the Wall Street elite. They come in various specialties, each focused on helping you achieve your unique financial objectives. Whether your goal is retirement planning or debt management, finding the right advisor can provide invaluable support and expertise.

Whether you choose to go it alone or enlist the help of a financial advisor, the important thing is to take that first step toward securing your financial future. By crafting a financial plan tailored to your needs and aspirations, you’re taking control of your destiny and setting yourself up for success.

In closing, I hope this article serves as a catalyst for action, inspiring you to embark on your financial planning journey with confidence. We will continue to dive into more detail about different financial planning topics in future issues, but as you are working on your financial plan, if some topics or questions come to mind, send them to The Catoctin Banner at news@thecatoctinbanner.com, and we’ll see if we can answer your questions in a future issue.

Remember, regardless of where you are on your financial path, it’s never too late to start planning for a brighter tomorrow.

From May To December

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written by James Rada, Jr.

5: Helping Out

Peter Lawrence seemed to mature before his mother’s eyes, and she wasn’t sure if she was proud that he was growing into a fine man or sad that he was losing his childhood.

Stacy Lawrence had reluctantly given her son permission to work part-time on Bobby Hennessey’s farm. So far, Peter said he was enjoying the work, and Bobby had promised Stacy not to overwork the 12-year-old. Each day, Bobby would pick up Peter and drop him off, and for a few hours in between, Peter would take care of the animals and complete odd jobs around the farm–nothing too physically demanding.

Despite this, Stacy couldn’t shake off the guilt she felt. She would have loved to see her son out skateboarding with friends at the Thurmont Skatepark. Peter had chosen to help out on the farm after seeing how much Stacy was struggling financially. It was both heartwarming and bittersweet to see her son take on such responsibility at such a young age.

When she looked at her son, she saw glimpses of Jack, her ex-husband and Peter’s father. They shared the same unruly brown hair that never seemed to lay straight and bright green eyes that shone with kindness. But what really made them look alike was their smiles—wide open and friendly.

Thankfully, Peter had inherited his mother’s strong work ethic. He didn’t shy away from hard work and always gave it his all. With such dedication, it was no surprise that he proudly handed over most of his weekly pay to Stacy. And even though she knew they needed the money, she couldn’t bring herself to spend it. Taking Bobby’s advice, she opened a savings account in Peter’s name at PNC Bank. One day, he would have a nice nest egg thanks to his own efforts – and knowing Peter, she had no doubt he would use it wisely.

In the quiet moments while she tended the bar, Stacy’s thoughts often drifted to her son. She couldn’t help but miss his presence, even if he spent most of their time together, hunched over his tablet while she worked. Thankfully, Bobby was more than willing to match Peter’s days off with hers, so they could still enjoy some quality time together.

One day, after finishing work early, Stacy swung by Bobby’s farm to pick up Peter and save Bobby a trip. As she pulled up, she saw Peter feeding the animals and Bobby sitting under a tree with his easel and paints.

Curiosity getting the better of her, Stacy approached him and peered over his shoulder at his current creation.

“Not bad,” she said.

Bobby smiled warmly. “You’re kind. I enjoy doing it, though. I find it relaxing.”

“What do you do with them once you finish?”

“Half the time I just paint over them again.”

“And the other half?”

“When you go into the barn, you’ll see them hanging for the horses to enjoy.”

Stacy chuckled at the thought of a horse staring at Bobby’s paintings.

Putting his brush in a jar of water, Bobby stood up. “Would you like a glass of iced tea?”

She nodded, and they walked over to the house and the back deck. Bobby motioned to a cozy patio chair with a worn but comfortable cushion, inviting Stacy to have a seat.

“Have a seat, and I’ll bring out the tea.”

Stacy settled into the chair and took in the view of the farm. It wasn’t sprawling, but it had its own charm, with two rustic barns and a large fenced arena. She couldn’t help but feel relaxed as she sat and gazed out at the peaceful property. In the distance, she spotted Peter pushing an empty wheelbarrow into one of the barns before disappearing inside.

When Bobby returned with a tray carrying a pitcher of tea and two glasses, he joined her at the table. He set it down on the table between them and poured each of them a glass before taking a seat next to her.

“You really have a lovely farm,” Stacy remarked.

“Thank you, but it’s too much for me, really.”

“Then why not sell it?”

“I grew up here. I’ve got a lot of wonderful memories of my parents here. If I sold it, I would feel like I’m losing a part of myself. That’s probably why I have no interest in leaving Thurmont. Everywhere I turn, there are buildings, parks, houses that hold special meaning for me because of the memories attached to them.”

“I’ve never lived in a place like that.”

“Too bad.”

“Maybe, but can you miss something you never had?”

“Maybe not, but you can yearn for something you’ve only dreamed of having. In some ways, that can be even harder because it’s an ideal rather than a reality.”

Their conversation was interrupted by Peter jogging out of one of the barns.

“Bobby, I think you should take a look at Hershey,” the boy said.

“What’s wrong?”

“He’s been acting strange. I’m worried he might be sick or something.”

Bobby and Stacy quickly got up and followed Peter into the barn. “You named a stallion Hershey?” Stacy couldn’t help but ask.

“He reminded me of milk chocolate,” Bobby explained with a fond smile as they approached the stall where Hershey was housed.

Bobby’s four horses were housed in a spacious, rustic barn, with each stall adorned with fresh hay and a clean watering trough. Peter stood at the stall of a large, chocolate-colored stallion, its muscles rippling under its glossy coat. The horse kept shaking his head and biting at his flanks, clearly agitated and uncomfortable. Despite Peter’s attempts to soothe him with calming words and food, the stallion showed no interest.

Stacy entered the stall with cautious steps, her experienced hands lightly running along the stallion’s side. He nipped at her hand, but she quickly pulled it away. She noticed Peter hadn’t yet changed the bedding in the stall, which appeared crushed and dirty.

“I think he may have a mild case of colic,” she said to Bobby.

“What should we do?” he asked, concern etched on his face.

“Let me take him out to the arena and walk him for a while,” Stacy suggested. “Movement can sometimes help with mild cases. In the meantime, Peter should clean out the stall and remove any remaining food. A sick horse shouldn’t be eating.”

With a halter in hand, Stacy led Hershey out of the barn. The horse was hesitant at first, but with gentle words and slight tugs on the halter, he reluctantly followed her lead. As they walked around the arena, Stacy explained to Bobby how walking can help relieve gas and stimulate bowel movements in horses experiencing colic.

“Do you have any experience with this?” Bobby asked.

“I’ve dealt with it before,” Stacy replied. “But I’m not a trained vet, so if this doesn’t work, you’ll need to call one out here.”

“You seem pretty knowledgeable.”

“I’ve been around horses my whole life,” Stacy shrugged modestly. “But I wouldn’t want to risk your horse’s health.”

“I trust you,” Bobby said sincerely.

As they continued their slow laps around the arena, they talked about their pasts. Stacy was surprised to learn that Bobby had been married, but tragically, his wife and daughter had passed away in a car accident several years ago.

“Doesn’t it taint your memories of the town?” she asked sympathetically.

Bobby shook his head. “No. The town helps me remember them. They’re buried in a small family cemetery back behind the barns. Sometimes it makes me sad to visit their graves because of the memories associated with their gravestones, but you have to take the good with the bad.”

Bobby came to a sudden stop, waving his hand in front of his face as if trying to ward off an invisible attacker. “Now that’s a something I can do without.” Hershey had let out a belch of gas, the putrid odor hanging heavily in the air. “Smells like a dead skunk that’s been left out in the sun for a week.”

Stacy couldn’t help but laugh at Bobby’s pained expression. “Like you said, you have to take the good with the bad.”

She paused and ran her hands over Hershey’s belly, relieved when he didn’t snap at her. “I think he’ll be fine. Let’s walk him a little longer and see if he gets rid of anything else.”

“If he does, I might just lose my lunch.” Bobby grimaced as they continued their stroll.

They walked for another 10 minutes before Stacy led Hershey back to his empty stall. “Leave it empty for tonight, no bedding or food. Just to be safe and make sure everything is okay. If his manure is soft or watery in the morning, then we’ll take him to get checked out. But he should be fine.”

“Thank you,” Bobby said gratefully. “I really appreciate you helping Hershey and potentially saving me a vet bill… or even losing my horse.”

“I’m just glad I was here to help,” Stacy replied sincerely.

“I want to pay you.”

Bobby reached for his wallet, but Stacy quickly placed a hand on his arm. “Don’t you dare. You’ve already been so kind to me and Peter. This is the least I can do.”

“Well…” He thought for a moment before an idea struck him. “At least let me order us some pizza, and we can have dinner on the back porch?”

Stacy smiled, nodding in agreement. “That sounds lovely.”

“Observations from the Woodpile”

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Prologue

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

The Right Tool for the Job

Over the years, I’ve seen quite a few devices for splitting wood. I’ve been tempted to try them all. Sometimes, I’ve been weak and fallen for promises of wood falling into nice uniform pieces with just one whack of this tool or that. After several seasons of trial and error, I’ve ended up with a basic set of tools: a splitting maul, two or three wedges, a chainsaw, and an instrument called a cant hook.

A splitting maul is a cross between a wedge, an axe, and a sledgehammer. It looks like a wedge with a handle. The chainsaw is noisy and otherwise ineloquent, but I don’t see how folks got along without them. My hat is off to the old-timers who felled the giants of the ancient forests with cross-cut saws.

Except for the cant hook, all these tools are necessary for getting the job done. The cant hook isn’t at all necessary. It’s one of those tools that make doing a job pleasurable or, at least, less of a burden, by taking some of the drudgery out. It’s a stout handle with a hook that pivots about a foot from the end. You use it to lift and turn logs by the principle of leverage. It has, no doubt, saved me from an irreparable back injury.

Being properly equipped for a task is often quite a balancing act. Not enough of the right equipment paralyzes a project. With too many tools and gadgets, too much time is spent on tools and not the task.

Properly equipping children with the right tools for their lives’ tasks is the quintessential purpose of parenting. The tendency is to equip them with too much hardware, too much stuff. It’s easy to throw money and hope it’s the right thing. So, what is the right list of tools?  Well, just as every job is different, so is every child. It takes a bunch of trial and error and that means a bunch of time. 

When Less Than Sharp Is Best

More than once, the boys have commented about how dull the splitting mauls are. They constantly want to file them to a knife edge. I explain to them that for the kind of work the mauls are designed to do, extra sharp is not best. Something very sharp is more easily blunted and dulled. The mauls are continually being driven into the ground and hitting rocks and such. It just doesn’t pay to keep them razor sharp.

Several years ago, I ran a planing mill in a cabinet-making plant. Every day, I replaced the huge planer knives with ones that had been sharpened the day before. Before finishing, I passed a special stone across the knives to take a tiny bit off the edge. I asked the fellow who sharpened the knives why that had to be done. He explained that if the knives were too sharp, the constant friction would cause them to burn up. They would not last through the next shift.

That’s a principle I’ve seen before. Very precise instruments require an extraordinary amount of maintenance. High performance cars spend a lot of time in garages. Sharp, intense people often can’t make it over the long run. They’re too sharp to resist the constant friction, and they simply burn up.

The two boys are too young to comprehend this observation, and I don’t want them using it on me as a way of avoiding their schoolwork. Someday, they’ll be grown men with careers and families and a thousand other responsibilities. I hope they will understand then to take a little of the edge off, so they can last the long run.

Youth Art on Display at the Delaplaine Arts Center

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On a Sunday afternoon in March, the Delaplaine Arts Center in Frederick was bustling with families, grandparents, and local community members, who were all there to see the talent of the budding young artists who are part of Frederick County Public Schools.

The Delaplaine Arts Center once again hosted the Frederick County Public School Youth Art Exhibit, from March 2 through March 25. Art teachers from each school across the county selected up to three of their student’s artwork to be displayed during the event.

The gallery rooms were filled with vibrant colors, displaying over four hundred pieces of artwork in a variety of mediums and even included three dimensional pieces. 

The following students from the Catoctin Feeder Schools were featured in the exhibit:

Catoctin High School: Arianna Calhoun (12th Grade), Leyna Durrschmidt (10th Grade), Kaitlyn Eyler (9th Grade), Kaitlynn Grimes (12th Grade), Lillian Holden (11th Grade), Rebekah Manahan (9th Grade), Abby Nichols (12th Grade)

Emmitsburg Elementary: Dani Beall (3rd Grade), Amilia Luyo (Pre-K), Alexa Sosa Torres (5th Grade)

Lewistown Elementary: Natalie Collins (5th Grade)

Sabillasville Environmental School: Hunter Steele (1st Grade), Julia Marl (6th Grade)

Thurmont Primary: Prairie Brown (2nd Grade), Iris Burdick-Grumphrey, Olivia Roecker (K)

Thurmont Elementary: Ava Burdette (4th Grade), Sydney Grimes (5th Grade), John Irons (3rd Grade)

Thurmont Middle: Garcelle Hinson (6th Grade), Payton Reid (8th Grade), Amelia Rice (7th Grade)

Mixed Media by Cobalt Wivell at Catoctin High School, Art Teacher Laura Day.

Scratchboard by Garcelle Hinson at Thurmont Middle School, Art Teacher Stephanie Strenko.

Collage by Olivia Roecker at Thurmont Primary, Art Teacher Jennifer Riggs.

Oil Pastel & Watercolor by Natalie Collins at Lewistown Elementary School, Art Teacher Cenica Korrell.

Oil Pastel by Leyna Durrschmidt at Catoctin High School, Art Teacher Laura Day.

Watercolor and Cut Paper by Hunter Steele at Sabillasville Environmental School, Art Teacher Destyni Cecil.

Paint and Marker by Ava Burdette at Thurmont Elementary, Art Teacher Jill Dutrow.

Stoneware and Clay Oxide by Arianna Calhoun at Catoctin High School, Art Teacher Valerie Pickett.

Tempera Paint by at Emmitsburg Elementary Alexa Sosa Torres, Art Teacher Heidi Hench.

You’re My World! (Literally)

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by Helen Xia, CHS Student Writer

Have you heard about the basins detected on Mars? Already, experts are devising ways astronauts could utilize this newfound resource. For instance, not only could this be used to discover more about Mars’ history, but it could also be used more directly, such as for rocket fuel. Something else, however, emerged from the finding of water on this extraterrestrial mass: questions about whether intricate life can one day be found on Mars—or, better yet, could life from Earth ever be transferred there in the future?

The answer is uncertain for now, but one thing’s for sure: Humanity thriving on Mars is no easy feat. From high radiation levels to bitter cold—approximately negative 81 degrees Fahrenheit, to be precise—lack of oxygen is not the only factor preventing us from abandoning our home on Earth.

All of that was a convoluted way to say that Earth is our only definite home. There is no guarantee we’ll have a “second chance” to migrate to another body in space if Earth becomes uninhabitable. Hence, some critics question, “Why expend so much time and resources tapping into Mars when those efforts can be used to preserve where we currently live?”

Fortunately, amongst extraordinary discoveries beyond Earth’s atmosphere, there is a day designated for understanding the struggles here on Earth and appreciating what our home has to offer: Earth Day.

Despite not being an official national holiday, Earth Day is celebrated by more than 1 billion every year on April 22. It is often regarded as the origin of the modern movement for environmental conservation. The environmental discussion—more prevalent now than ever—arose decades ago. The first Earth Day materialized in 1970, amid copious amounts of leaded gas emissions from automobiles and the soaring of industrialization. Back then, there was scarcely any legislation combatting these harmful practices, if any.

Junior Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin recognized this unsustainable conduct and employed the powerful voice of youth to amplify his message. Inspired by the anti-war protests occurring during this period, Senator Nelson wanted to incorporate students’ vigorous demands for change into the environmental debate as well. To accomplish this, he organized teach-ins on college campuses with Denis Hayes, who left his academic career at Harvard Law School to pursue environmental advocacy. This explains the seemingly random date of Earth Day: To maximize student participation, Senator Nelson and Hayes purposefully selected April 22, which falls in between college students’ spring break and final exam season.

The event quickly escalated beyond merely college campuses and saw remarkable success. On April 22, 1970, about 20 million people throughout the country—roughly 10 percent of the nation at the time—gathered in various cities and protested against the damage done by careless, uncontrolled industry. Since the first Earth Day, the United States government has formed the Environmental Protection Agency and passed several laws dedicated to environmental conservation, including the Clean Air Act.

Don’t worry, environment-centered initiatives don’t need to be as large-scale as the ones described previously to be effective. An example of a force for environmental good is right in our community: At Catoctin High School (CHS), Brian Brotherton’s Catoctin Conservation Club (CCC) is committed to advancing sustainability within the school and beyond. To accurately illuminate the notable achievements of this club, I interviewed CCC’s incredible president, Gina Lin.

For starters, what is CCC all about? “The Catoctin Conservation Club has been working toward sustainability since its founding in 2019. Although it’s gone through a series of name changes, the goal of CCC stays the same: increasing environmental awareness at CHS and implementing ambitious sustainability practices in various forms,” explained Lin. “To say that the club is juggling a few tasks is an understatement. We worked diligently and submitted the Maryland Green School Application before its deadline in early March. CHS used to be Green School certified. The dawn of CCC was full of momentum, but soon after came the pandemic, erasing much progress, one of them being the expiration of the Green School’s Application. There is a certain set of criteria schools have to meet regarding student-led action, community partnerships, and sustainable school systems [to qualify].”

According to Lin, some highlights of CCC’s hard work consist of partnering with National Park Services to organize a successful on-campus tree planting; applying for and receiving the Maryland State Department of Education’s School Waste Reduction and Composting Program grant; arranging a school-wide recycling movement, titled Recycling Battle Royale, and educating students on proper recycling habits; having a few members of the club—including Natalie Hoyt, Keelyn Swaney, and Lin—attend the Frederick County District 5 Budget Hearing to advocate for more sustainable practices around the county; and welcoming the Frederick County Public Schools’ Sustainability director and operations manager to CHS to discuss next steps with the club.

The CCC is, evidently, a treasure at Catoctin! I can attest that the organization’s positive influence can be regularly felt all through my school.

Managing the numerous dynamic components of CCC requires much dedication and endurance. A problem as extensive as the climate crisis may seem overwhelming, but from her experience, Lin urges, “The most important lesson [I’ve learned] is to just try. Even if you can’t get everyone on board with your ideas, the best you can do is try and influence those who actually demonstrate interest. You never know the full impact of your actions. Communication is so important—I cannot stress this enough. You need to be a good communicator and not afraid to put yourself out there in order to get things going.”

Hopefully, this article left you feeling hopeful or at least taught you something about our planet and the efforts to protect it. Everyone is capable of uniting and outputting good in this world we share.

I will leave you with the following message of encouragement from Lin about conservation: “Every bit of action is significant and will be meaningful in the long run. We can’t be indifferent to the things burning in front of our faces. One less piece of plastic that ends up in the Chesapeake and feeds into the Atlantic is one more marine organism saved. Our actions are what causes eutrophication, the difference between critically endangered and extinct, and the amount of property destruction in coastal areas. The climate crisis is an indisputable issue and one I wish wasn’t politically charged. This is the future of humanity we are saving.”

LOOKING BACK

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Littlestown Man Dies of Fright

John McCall of Littlestown, Pennsylvania, was one of the oldest engineers working on the Northern Central Railroad in 1909. He had worked for the railroad for over 30 years and even lost a leg eight years earlier in an accident on the railroad.

So, what could a man who had probably seen everything—good and bad—having to do with the railroad have seen that literally scared him to death?

The Northern Central Railroad ran from Baltimore to Sunbury, Pennsylvania. It had been completed in 1858. The railroad’s claim to fame was that President Abraham Lincoln rode on the railroad to deliver his Gettysburg Address in 1863, changing trains in Hanover Junction, Pennsylvania. Then, in 1865, the Northern Central Railroad carried Lincoln partway on his final journey to Springfield, Illinois, where he would be buried.

On December 3, 1909, McCall was working on the Frederick Branch of the railroad, east of Stony Brook, at the York Valley Lime and Stone company quarries, near Hallam, Pennsylvania. He backed Locomotive No. 4134 onto a siding at the quarry and unloaded the coal with which it was filled.

After coming off that siding, he reversed the locomotive to back onto another siding. The brakeman applied the hand brakes to stop the locomotive along the siding, but it began drifting backwards down the steep grade.

“When the brakeman realized that he was unable to hold the car, he shouted a warning to McCall, who may or may not have heard it. A moment later the heavy steel car side swiped the locomotive cab, tearing the right side entirely off and throwing McCall to the track, where he was pinned between the parallel bars and driving wheels of the locomotive,” the Gettysburg Times reported.

Men nearby rushed to his aid, but McCall was trapped. In order to free him, McCall’s rescuers had to saw off his wooden leg, “which was fastened under the engine in such a way that it was impossible to move the man otherwise,” according to the Gettysburg Times.

His injuries from the accident were considered slight. McCall had a slight gash on his forehead and a broken left thumb. The most serious of his injuries was the amputation of his left index finger. These injuries were indeed slight, considering that McCall had previously survived the loss of his right leg around the turn of the century.

The accident had occurred around 5:45 p.m. By 6:30 p.m. that evening, McCall was dead. Dr. W. F. Bacon pronounced McCall dead due to shock and not his injuries. The York County coroner, J. E. Dehoff, later agreed with Bacon’s pronouncement.

John’s son, Carter McCall, also lived in Littlestown. He was a member of the freight crew on his father’s train. He was notified of his father’s death so that he could claim the body and return it to his family in Littlestown.

“The accident is the most peculiar known on the railroad, and a similar accident could not be remembered by any of the oldest engineers on the road,” the Gettysburg Times reported.

The Crazy Plant Lady

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Resourceful Rain Gardens

Good day to you, readers! I’m sure you’ve done all the Earth Day activities before: picked up trash, potted a plant, or enjoyed nature. Those are all great, yet, if you find yourself with that time and energy this Earth day, consider making a rain garden for more lasting aid to the planet. You’ll be carrying on a Maryland tradition since the first rain garden was started right here in Maryland by Dick Brinker of Prince George’s County. It was created as a new way to mitigate water pollution in a newly built neighborhood in Somerset.

The installation of one rain garden per house was quite effective: stormwater runoff decreased a whopping 75-80 percent as it was absorbed and filtered by the garden. Even its use at the University of Maryland, College Park, resulted in transparent water (many pollutants, bacteria, and other materials were captured and filtered successfully). Rain gardens are designated depressions or ditches where water and other sediment can drain into. You can find a completed rain garden at Heritage Farm Park (Walkersville, by the baseball fields), accompanied by a sign about its design and implementation. Rain gardens are important, successful, and downright cool! So, are you ready to learn how to make your own?

Preparation

You’re going to be digging into your yard, so call 811 to make sure you don’t hit any important sewage utilities or the like.

First, test your dirt to see if it will drain quickly enough to prevent stagnant water. Start by digging a hole six inches deep by six inches wide. You can check to see if the spot is just right by filling the hole with water and seeing if it mostly drains within 48 hours. If it does drain, begin widening the ditch. The Groundwater Foundation recommends 100-400 square feet for most homes, but you can certainly make it smaller to meet your landscaping needs

Plan to make the garden in a relatively flat area that does not have stagnant water after the rain. Try to place near areas in which pipes, drains, and driveways release excess water.

Make sure the garden is 10 feet away or more from your home’s foundation and 50 feet from a septic system.

Foundation

The deepest part of the garden should be about six inches, with the middle and outside edges forming a slight slope to make a small depression in the ground.

Use excess dirt to line the side farthest from the source of water (for you gardening nerds, you’ll be making a berm to hold leftover water that flows in).

If you’re having trouble getting water to your rain garden, dig a shallow trench from the water source to the garden. Place landscape cloth or tarp on top with stones on the sides to make a waterslide!

Planting

Select native plant varieties based on the water level they need. The trench’s deepest part must consistently tolerate wet to moist conditions, while the outer edges should tolerate dry conditions.

It is essential to use native plants for this garden. Native plants are adjusted to the water cycle and will appropriately absorb water, so there is no excess pooling.

Some good materials to line the deepest layer include: Blue Sedge, Wool Rush/Grass, Little bluestem, blue wood aster, groundsel, spicebush, growing summer sweet; middle layer: Black-eyed Susan, Alumroot, black chokeberry, hillside blueberry; outskirts: Black-eyed Susan, Butterfly milkweed, inkberry holly.

After planting, water the entire garden and add a layer of mulch. Keep watering until rain occurs. Continue to weed until after summer (and you can use your energy on harvest season instead). The only maintenance you’ll need after that is cutting down old growth.

And there you have it! A beginner’s guide to making your own rain garden. If you’re confused about any details, the Environmental Protection Agency website has several resources on how to make the garden and continue upkeep. Further, the Rain Garden Alliance has a free and easy-to-use calculator to create the dimensions for your garden.

Some other benefits of a rain garden you may experience include lovely pollinators, less flooding in your basement, and feeling like a good Samaritan.

Best of luck to you readers, and thanks for saving the Earth!

Credit to: Les Engles from The Spruce, Jeanne Huber of This Old House, James Steakly of Almanac, Viveka Neveln from Good Housekeeping, the University of Maryland Extension, The US Environmental Protection Agency, Chesapeake Stormwater Network, Davis et. al 2001 of University of Maryland Rain Garden Study, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and Groundwater Foundation.

The Supermarket Gourmet

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by Buck Reed

Food Rants. PERIOD.

Okay, I have been writing this article for a while now, and I normally am a pretty happy-go-lucky kind of guy. For well over six years, I have been sharing my thoughts on a variety of food topics without any malice or thought toward any specific subject and usually with a little humor (some might say with as little as possible). But, now that we appear to be out of the pandemic, and things are getting to be a bit more normal, I want to share a few pet peeves I have with what is going on in the food service industry.

First, cauliflower is as good as it is going to get. Yes, you can cook it two or three different ways, and that’s about it. It makes a wonderful soup if you match it with something, you can boil it and serve it with butter, and, if you can tolerate the smell, you can roast it. Stop putting it in pizza crust, making “rice” out of it, or making “vegetarian macaroni and cheese” out of it. The last dish is not clever or new. When we made it back in the day, we called it Cauliflower Au Gratin. You either like cauliflower or you are normal.

I understand that the pandemic threw a monkey wrench into the restaurant business and that it might take a few years to get things back to normal. And, I know I am old and might be looking at this one through the eyes of someone who longs for yesteryear. Wait staff need to step up. That means simple things like knowing the menu of the establishment you are working in. Being able to answer simple questions about the ingredients and preparation of each dish is going to make you look more professional and make your job much easier.

I would say that in my day, if you mentioned to a good waiter or waitress that you wanted them to forego tips in favor of a flat hourly rate, you might have a mutiny on your hands. Being a server is a noble profession that requires a lot of skills, including sales, customer relations, and multitasking. Almost every server I have ever worked with made bank, or at least knew they would make it up on the weekend. Once they accept a flat rate, that will be all they will be able to make, as tips will disappear as fast as the menu prices go up.

Being in the food service industry as long as I have, it is easy for me to spot a dirty establishment. If the dining room is a bit disheveled, unorganized, or dusty, then I guarantee the kitchen is as bad. A dirty bathroom is a sure sign that the staff is not keeping up. Further, damage to the furniture and the carpet or cracked tiles is an indication that management is not paying attention to their establishment. I don’t mind seeing mouse or rat traps outside a business; most places have this problem. At least they are doing something about it. But if you see the trash dumpster or used oil bins, and they have bags or buckets that cannot fit in the receptacle, then that establishment has a problem, and I can assure you that it is a big one.

Finally, let me say as a lifelong cook that there is most definitely a proper way to cook almost all foods. Let’s start with hand-cut or boardwalk French fries. Some might even call these fresh-cut fries, which is actually not the case at all. These fries need to be cut from a variety of baking potatoes, then blanched in the fryer once, stored cold, and then refried to produce a crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, product that is delightful to everyone. To just fry a fresh-cut potato and serve it is just a hot mess next to your burger. The same goes for chicken wings. Seriously, I think any bank that is dealing with the food service industry needs a chef consultant to look over the cooking methods of any new establishment to make sure they are doing it correctly. There is actually a chain of wing places in Frederick that believes they can change the tried-and-true wing cooking method developed in Buffalo and put out a good product. (They don’t even have blue cheese dressing!)

Okay, suffice it to say, I got it out of my system. Please note, I have not mentioned any names concerning my rant; however, if you know of someone committing any of these transgressions, leave a copy of this article in their view. I will take the hit. Next month, I will be back to my wonderful self as I butcher the English language while describing the varieties of wild mushrooms available to you and your kitchen.