James Rada, Jr.

Emmitsburg’s World War I Doughboy statue should be back on its pedestal by mid-March, according to Emmitsburg Mayor Donald Briggs.

The statue, which was erected in 1927 to honor the town’s WWI Veterans, was damaged on June 17, 2015, when a car hit the pedestal. The pedestal was damaged and the statue suffered minor damage. Repairs were slowed at first, because the historic nature of the statue required a specialized company to perform the repairs that was approved by the State of Maryland.

“It took two seconds to knock that thing out and six to seven months to get it back,” said Briggs.

The slow process irritated many residents, particularly Veterans, who did not understand why it was taking so long.

Their ire was further inflamed when some officials and residents began talking about replacing the plaque on the statue’s pedestal to integrate the names of the African-American Veterans into the list of Caucasian Veterans. The names are currently segregated.

The commissioners had heard from residents and Veterans previously about whether the current plaque should be replaced with a new one. The response to that idea was very negative, with even descendants of some of the African-American Veterans speaking out against it.

On February 1, 2016, Commissioner Glenn Blanchard presented some ideas—for discussion only—about adding a second plaque that explained why the names were segregated, a second plaque noting the statue’s rededication with some reference to the segregated names, or interpretative signage in town that explained the statue and Emmitsburg’s role in WWI.

“This is an opportunity to get involved with the centennial of WWI to explain the role of Emmitsburg in WWI,” Blanchard said.

Fred Wood, representing American Legion No. 121, and Gene Lingg, representing VFW No. 5568, both spoke at the meeting, saying they did not see a need for a second plaque. Both also pointed out that while African-American Veteran names would not be segregated today, the statue is historic and that was typical for the time. However, today, that segregation of names can be seen as a “badge of honor,” according to Lingg. Both he and Wood said that it shows that there were African-Americans in Emmitsburg who believed that the country was worth fighting for and did so despite the segregation of the time.

Both men were interested in hearing more about the interpretive signage, and asked that the Veterans groups be included in the discussions.

What is a “doughboy”?

Although the U.S. soldiers of WWI are the ones most commonly given the nickname “doughboy,” it has been used since the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) to identify soldiers. It was even used at the beginning of WWII. The name has also been applied to British troops.

The name “doughboy” itself has applied to fried dumplings that were an early version of doughnuts and a baker’s apprentice. It was also used interchangeably with “doughhead,” a colloquialism for stupidity.

The name first appeared in reference to soldiers during the Mexican-American War. No explanation was ever given as to why the nickname was used, but a number of theories have been advanced over the years. While some are feasible, none have proof to support them.

This winter, four families received the much-welcomed gift of a new high-efficiency heating and cooling system, thanks to the “A Gift of Warmth” program sponsored by BGE HOME, Constellation Home and United Way of Central Maryland, United Way of Frederick County and United Way of York County.

Deserving families were nominated by fellow members of their community, and winners were selected in Baltimore, Millersville, and Thurmont, Maryland, as well as Hanover, Pennsylvania.

The Valentine family in Thurmont had their new high-efficiency heating and cooling system installed in early January. BGE Home received about twenty nominations through the United Way of Frederick County for this year’s program, and two of them were for the Valentine family of Thurmont. Their neighbors pointed to their positivity, work ethic, caring spirit, and tight-knit family in their recommendations.

The family’s old unit was about twenty years old and required constant upkeep. The Valentines were unable to replace it due to a series of setbacks, including a flood caused by a neighbor’s home that insurance wouldn’t cover.

Steve Valentine said, “Lady Luck has never really shined on us, and when my wife got the call, she was literally in tears… We were ecstatic. We totally feel blessed.”

The cost of the newly installed system with installation is valued at about $10,000. The new heating and cooling system should last about fifteen years and is more efficient, so it could lower heating and cooling costs by about 20 percent. BGE HOME has a service center in Mount Airy and provides services to all of Frederick County.

BGE HOME also assists with heating-related calls to the 2-1-1 Maryland United Way Helpline, which provides unique community information referral services to people in need of food, shelter, job resources, health care, child care, and other vital services.

The 2-1-1 Maryland United Way Helpline is one of four 2-1-1 call centers in Maryland, and is available 24/7 in 150 languages. Anyone can dial 2-1-1 for free, confidential help.

“We believe that safe, affordable housing is a basic human need, essential to keeping families stable,” said Mark Furst, president and CEO, United Way of Central Maryland.

The heating and cooling systems were donated by Trane, Carrier and Slant/Fin.

James Rada, Jr.

Mount St. Mary’s University held its annual Hall of Fame luncheon and Induction ceremony on Jan. 30 in the McGowan Center.

Those inducted into the Mount Athletic Hall of Fame were:

Christopher Fallon (Class of 1976) —

 Baseball

In his freshman year, prior to his season being cut short by injury, Fallon hit for a whopping .627 average. After he recovered from an injury, Fallon hit for a batting average of .450 in his sophomore year, en route to his first of three All-Mason/Dixon Conference selection. During his junior and senior seasons, Fallon hit for batting averages of .425 and .395 respectively, and was selected by his peers as the team’s most valuable player.

Michael Kuhn (Class of 1991) —

Soccer

Kuhn started every game throughout his playing career, racking up 73 career starts, placing him fourth on the all-time list of games played. During his tenure at the Mount, Mike helped lead the program through the transition from Division II to Division I after his freshman season. Kuhn was a key cog in the Mount’s backline for the 1987 and 1990 teams that hold several team records. The 1987 team posted a school-record 14 wins while also setting Mount standards for goals against average (0.58) and shutouts (11). All three of those records still stand today. The 1990 team, known for its offensive prowess, set single season records in games played (20), goals scored (47), assists (42), and total points scored (136). (Note: Kuhn and his father Ed are the first father-son duo in the Mount Hall of Fame. Ed was inducted in 2007).

Thomas Muth (Class of 1989) —

Men’s Soccer, Track and Field

The Mount Athletic Department calls Muth “the greatest sweeper back to play at the Mount.” There are few statistics kept for defensive players, but the team’s success can be traced directly to the strength of the defensive back line. The 1987 team was ranked in the top 10 in the nation at the NCAA Division II level, and to this day still remains one of the best soccer teams in school history. That year, the program excelled on the field, winning the most games in program history (14), all while proving that defense wins championships, as evident through their school records in lowest goals against average (0.58 goals per game) and shutouts (11). That year, Muth was named to the Maryland Small College All-State First Team and an Academic All American by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA).

Naomi Marie Campano Radio (Class

of 2004) — Lacrosse

A dual-sport athlete, playing goalie for both women’s soccer and women’s lacrosse, Naomi helped lead the women’s lacrosse program to its first two Northeast Conference (NEC) Championships and trips to the NCAA Tournament in 2004 and 2005. In addition to her three All-NEC selections, the 2005 NEC Lacrosse Player of the Year and 2005 NEC Tournament MVP led the conference in goals against average and save percentage, totaling a school-record 225 saves for the 2004 season. In 2005, she ranked fourth in NCAA Division I with a .568 save percentage, and eighth in goals-against average of 7.46. At the conclusion of her career with the women’s lacrosse program, Naomi had set three school records, including career saves (770), career wins (41), and career minutes played (4,342).

Nicole Trumpler (Class of 1999) —

Soccer, Softball

Trumpler is one of the best goalkeepers in Mount history, ranking in the top six in multiple categories in the Mount record books. A First Team All-Northeast Conference selection in both soccer and softball during her senior year, Nicki tallied multiple school records for her career in both sports. In soccer, Trumpler ranks fifth in goalie games played (47), fourth in goalie games started (34), fourth in goalie minutes played (3,626), sixth in saves (250), fourth in save percentage (78.1%), fourth in goals allowed (1.74 goals per game), third in career victories (14), and fourth in shutouts (3.5). For the 1998-1999 season, Trumpler was named the NEC’s Women’s Soccer Scholar-Athlete of the Year. In softball, Nicki ranks seventh all-time in career hits (136), sixth in runs batted in (71), twelfth in at bats (440), sixth in doubles (27), seventh in triples (5), and eleventh in total bases (185). During her senior season, in addition to being named to the First Team All-NEC, Trumpler was named a National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-America Scholar Athlete.

The Mount St. Mary’s National Alumni Association created the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1971 to recognize former Mount athletes who “have exhibited athletic prowess of an outstanding nature in an intercollegiate sport,” according to the web site. More than 150 athletes, eight coaches, four teams, and three supporters of Mount Athletics have been inducted since 1971.

It was also announced at this luncheon that the Mount would be expanding its NCAA Division I athletic programs to include men’s swimming and diving. Men’s swimming and diving becomes the 17th NCAA Division I sport at the Mount, encompassing 17 teams and 315 student-athletes.

“Mount St. Mary’s has one of the longest traditions of sports excellence of any member of the NCAA, excellence that is measured in terms of meeting the highest standards of sportsmanship and student-athlete success in addition to games and championships won,” said Mount President Simon P. Newman “We are expanding upon that strong foundation. College athletics play an integral role in the university experience of athletes and spectators alike. I am extremely proud of our athletics program and fully committed to its continued growth and development.”

Neil Yost, the Mount’s first and only women’s swimming coach at the Mount, will also serve as the head coach for the men’s swimming and diving program. In his 11th season at the Mount, Yost has posted a 53-40 dual meet record in his career.

Pictured from left are Christopher Fallon (C’76), Naomi Marie Campano Radio (C’04), Nicole Trumpler (C’99), President Simon Newman, Michael Kuhn (C’91), and Thomas Muth (C’89).

Photo by Tom Lesser, courtesy of the MSM Alumni Relations

Thurmont Little League 2016 Spring Season Updates — Preparing for a Great Season of Baseball

March has arrived, and in just a couple of weeks, baseball players will fill the baseball fields in preparation of the 2016 spring baseball season.  This year marks the 65^th season of baseball for Thurmont Little League (TLL), and the TLL Board of Directors are preparing for a great celebration for opening day on Saturday, April 16.

Now that registration has concluded, TLL would like to announce their 2016 Player Assessments.  Assessments will be held on Saturday, March 5, and Sunday, March 13, at the Fort Ritchie facility, located at 518 W. Argonne Avenue in Fort Ritchie (Cascade).  Minor league assessments will begin sharply at 3:00 p.m., followed by the major league assessment at 4:30 p.m. The timeline will be the same for both assessments. All minor players, first time major players, and players currently on a major roster who would like to go back into the draft, must attend one of the two assessments. If you played in the major league division for the first time in the fall of 2015, you are required to try out for the 2016 spring division—fall baseball does not qualify as a major league season. If you have questions, please call Ed Lowry at 267-664-5059, please do not delay.  They will need to ensure everyone participates in the player assessments.

Once the major and minor league assessments have concluded, next on the agenda will be the draft, team selections, and a head coaches meeting. Coaches will begin to reach out to players in mid-March and, before you know it, there will be a line at the concession stand and a cheerful buzz around the ball fields.

As TLL celebrates its 65^th year of baseball, they would like to also call on our great community to take an active part in their special year by becoming a volunteer. Volunteerism is what makes Little League Baseball the greatest youth organization in the world. It exists only because of its volunteers. Locally, TLL is fortunate to have the best volunteers that any youth organization could ask for.  The volunteers are committed to fostering the spirit of Little League and the pillars it stands for: Character, Courage, and Loyalty.  The TLL volunteers are committed to making each and every year the best year. But, again, 2016 won’t be just any year at TLL. In celebrating their 65^th year as a baseball organization, there is no better time to get involved and call yourself a volunteer. When you commit to volunteer as a coach, team mom, umpire, or committee member at TLL, you are committing to our youth in the community.  There is no greater reward or sense of pride that you can make a difference in a child’s life (outside of your own family).  The fellowship of being a volunteer in an organization that has been in existence since 1952 is something you can take pride in.

Please mark your calendars for opening day on Saturday, April 16.  Team sponsorships are currently needed for the league. If you are interested, contact Ed Lowry at edlowryjr@hotmail.com for details.  Visit Thurmont Little League’s website at www.TLLbaseball.com, check them out on Facebook: ThurmontLittleLeague, or on Twitter and Instagram @theTLLnetwork.

Thurmont Middle School Spirit Show Choir

The Broadway Life is a busy one! The Thurmont Middle School (TMS) Spirit Show Choir continues practicing their hearts out, getting their routines down, and perfecting those smiles to prepare for competition season. They are fast approaching their first event in Martinsburg, West Virginia, on March 19, 2016. In April, they will be traveling to the bright lights of New York City to compete at Brooklyn College.

The kids are extremely excited about this trip and continue to raise funds in order to create an unforgettable experience. They are holding an All-You-Can-Eat Pizza and Salad Night at Rocky’s Pizza in Thurmont on March 14, 2016, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Adult tickets will be $10.00 each; senior citizens and children (ages twelve and under) are $6.00. You may contact any show choir member to get your ticket in advance or you can get your tickets at the door. Please come and support these talented kids!

The Thurmont Spirit Show Choir, directed by Mrs. Berna Laforce, consists of forty-three TMS members. The routines this year are all performed to Broadway-style music, and the kids’ costumes are just as bright as their personalities. There are also upcoming competitions at Hershey Park and Oakdale High School, both in May. The group also performs at Thurmont Middle School in May as part of the Spring Concert.  They appreciate all of the community donations and support that has enabled the group’s continued success.

Catoctin High School Distinguished Graduate Organization Accepting Nominations

Nomination forms can be picked up in the front office of Catoctin High School (CHS) or can be downloaded from the CHS website at education.fcps.org/chs. Nomination forms must be submitted by May 1, 2016. Nominees will then receive an application to be completed by June 1, 2016.

The Distinguished Graduate Organization committee will determine the award recipients by June 21, 2016.

Catoctin Area 2016 Teacher of the Year Nominations

It is time to recognize that special teacher who has made an impact on your child’s life and on your school community. You can let this teacher know how important he or she has been to you by nominating him or her for the Thurmont Lions Club Teacher of the Year Award. Parents, students, administrators, and fellow teachers may nominate a teacher.

This award is open to Pre-K through Grade 12, full-time teachers, in these public and nonpublic schools in the Catoctin feeder school system: Catoctin High School; Thurmont Middle School; Thurmont Primary School; Thurmont Elementary School; Sabillasville Elementary School; Lewistown Elementary School; Emmitsburg Elementary School; and Mother Seton School.

All nominees will be recognized at a reception on April 21, 2016, and one finalist from each school will be announced. The Teacher of the Year will be selected from these finalists by a committee of community leaders and will be announced at the Thurmont Lions’ Education Night on May 11, 2016.

Nomination forms are available at www.thurmontlionsclub.com, at the Thurmont Regional Library, and the Thurmont Town Office. You may also pick up a form at your child’s school. Forms are due by March 23, 2016 (all information needed for filling out the nomination form and submitting it is included on it). This is a truly meaningful way to show your appreciation for that teacher who has made a difference in your child’s life and in the school community.

Williams Awarded International Leo of the Year 2015

On October 28, 2015, during the Thurmont Lions Club annual charter banquet, Marah Williams, a senior at Catoctin High School, was awarded International Leo of the Year 2015. Also in attendance were Lion Wendy Candella, CHS Leo Club advisor, and District Lion Eileen.

The Lions Club International, District 22W level, may nominate one high-achieving Leo each year for this medallion and certificate award. The Lions Club is an international service organization.

Marah is one of thirty-one award recipients from around the world, out of 44,000 members. This year, there are ten international Leo’s from the United States and twenty-one Leo’s from various countries around the world: Japan, Australia, India, Nigeria, and Italy, to name a few. Prior to becoming International Leo of the Year, Marah was awarded Leo of the Year, and Regional Leo, and is the current Catoctin High School Leo Club president.

Frederick County 4H Therapeutic Riding Program Spring Session Begins April

The Frederick County 4H Therapeutic Riding Program’s (TRP) spring session begins on April 23, 2016.  The program provides education, socialization, recreation, and therapy to more than seventy-eight individuals each spring and fall at no charge. The program, a 501c3 non-profit organization, will begin its thirty-second year of service to Frederick County citizens with emotional, physical, and/or mental disabilities. Students ride one hour per week for seven weeks during each session without charge. Class instructors and physical and/or occupational therapists design specific programs for each student, direct the implementation of these programs, and monitor the progress of the students.

Each of their riders requires a “team”: a horse leader and one or two side walkers. The “teams” are an invaluable asset to their program. They assist riders with completion of riding tasks and encourage the “I can do attitude.”

Also, each student rides a specific horse with specific equipment, deemed necessary by the instructors and therapist, thus requiring a capable Barn Crew to groom and ready the equine therapist for their job. Volunteers are the heart of this good work.

Volunteer Training Day for all prospective volunteers will be on Saturday, April 16, 2016, at the farm, from 9:00 a.m.-noon. If you have never attended volunteer training, please come and join the TRP family. For more information, check them out on Facebook or visit their website at www.fc4htrp.org.

Selfless Volunteers Build New Playground in Mount Tabor Park

A wonderful group of volunteers from Mt. Tabor Churches donated their time, labor, and tools to build a new playground in the Mount Tabor Park.

Volunteers from Mt. Tabor Churches complete spreading 64 cubic yards of playground mulch and installing borders and railings: (back row) Mike Harris, Travis Sanders, Marrie Sanders, Charles Riggs, Shirley Sharrer; (front row) Bill Dinterman, Regina Dinterman, Kevin Sharrer, Pat Riggs, Jeff Sharrer; (kneeling) Daniel Hobbs. Not Included: Larue Long, Alex Sumner, Tyler Sumner, John Sanders, Ben Sanders, and Kathy Sixx.

Commissioners Consider Raising Colorfest Fees

James Rada, Jr.

For the last four years, the amount that Thurmont receives from parking fees and vendors fees has not covered the costs that the town has incurred to host the annual Colorfest festival. This includes the cost for bus transportation for visitors, trash pick-up after the activities, Sani-pot rentals, personnel to help with traffic, and other Colorfest-related items.

“We need to make sure that we at least break even,” Mayor John Kinnaird told a group gathered for a workshop on the issue.

In 2015, the town spent $61,588.74, while bringing in only $49,153.

Kinnaird suggested raising the recommended charge for parking from $10.00 to $15.00. He also said that increased parking enforcement was needed to make sure that people weren’t parking where they shouldn’t and that all cars parking were being reported.

“We have latched onto parking fees multiple times over the past decade,” said Commissioner Marty Burns. “It’s starting to get almost too steep.”

He pointed out that the number of permits for crafters selling goods at the festival has dropped over the years, which can have a big impact on revenues.

As part of the workshop, Kinnaird invited representatives of various organizations that make a lot of money from the festival. They urged the commissioners to find ways to reduce Thurmont’s expenses before raising fees. In particular, sanitation and transportation have increased drastically.

Many of the representatives thought that the parking fee was already as high as it could go.

Other options suggested included requiring permits to be paid earlier so that vendors can’t wait to see what the weather is like before purchasing permits or charging an admission fee.

The commissioners took up the issue again during a January 26 workshop. Commissioner Bill Buehrer presented the commissioners and mayor with his suggestions to serve as a starting point for discussion.

Following discussion over multiple workshops, the commissioners are considering raising the following permit fees: Non-profit food vendors: $27 to $30; Craft vendors: $35 to $50; and Information-only booths by location: $50.

These increases, if approved by the commissioners, would raise more than $8,700, based on the 2015 permits. Even with a 10 percent decrease in permits, revenue would still increase by nearly $7,900.

Also, as the attendees at the first workshop urged the commissioners to look at cutting expenses the town pays for, Buehrer suggested cutting transportation, sanitation, and security by 20 percent. He believes it is an achievable number when the detailed spending for each of those items is considered.

Kinnaird suggested that transportation might even be cut more than 20 percent. “I think we could do away with a third of the buses,” he said.

Town staff ran projections based on these recommended numbers and presented them to the commissioners on February 9. Reducing the number of portable toilets around town by 39 and increasing the number of handicapped-accessible portable toilets by two represents a savings of $2,725 for the town. Reducing the number of buses running each day of Colorfest by five creates a $6,600 savings. Using one less variable-message board on Route 15 saves $900. The combined savings in costs to the town would be $10,225.

The commissioners considered reducing the number of security personnel at Colorfest, but Thurmont Police Chief Greg Eyler told the commissioners that the current level was needed not only for security but to direct traffic at 15 intersections around town.

“I don’t think we’d see any kind of real savings by cutting four or five security personnel,” Kinnaird added.

The net benefit would be roughly $19,000, which would have more than made up for the Colorfest deficit that the town saw last year.

The commissioners are also talking about putting any surpluses from Colorfest into a separate fund that would be used to offset any years where the town does run a deficit.

A Friendship to Remember

Seana and Gilley were paired up through the horse buddies program at the Frederick County 4H Therapeutic Riding Program, held at Silverado Stables in Lewistown. That was the beginning of an amazing friendship.

Seana learned how to take Gilley’s vitals, groom her, and train her. During training, they would practice multiple things: whoa, walk-on, lunging, and going through obstacles to keep Gilley fresh for the TRP riding program. They introduced different noises and items to familiarize her with things that could spook her in the field and in the ring. Seana’s favorite thing during training was lunging Gilley. She loved grooming her, just to spend time with the horses. Seana did not, however, like cleaning Gilley’s feet: “Too much smelly yuk!”  Of course, her favorite part was giving treats after they were done grooming and training.

Sadly, Gilley passed in January. “It has always amazed me how gentle Gilley was with Seana, always going her speed and listening to her commands. She will always be remembered,” expressed Debbie Endlich of the Frederick County 4H Therapeutic Riding Program.

If you would like to volunteer with the Frederick County 4H Therapeutic Riding Program, email fc4htrp@aol.com or call 301-898-3587. Check them out on Facebook and visit their website at www.fc4htrp.org.

Seana is shown riding on her much-loved Gilley at the Frederick County 4H Therapeutic Riding Program. Also pictured is the horse leader, Holly Feather; side walker (on left), Joy Jenkins; and side walker (on right), Megan Bogart.

Volunteers Sought to Help with Maple Syrup Festival

Volunteers are sought to assist in the 46^th year that Cunningham Falls State Park has demonstrated the making of Maple Syrup during the park’s Maple Syrup Festival in March.

Volunteers will help serve food, help gather maple sap, and fill additional roles. This event is one of several held by the Friends. Interested individuals should email info@cunninghamgambrill.org or call 301-271-7574 for more information.

27th Annual Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company Banquet

Allison Rostad

We all know who Oprah Winfrey is: an extremely successful American talk show host, actress, producer, and philanthropist. But how many of you know that she was demoted from her job as a news anchor because she “wasn’t fit for television”? Oprah’s story of fortitude embodies the same essence that filled the banquet hall of the Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company (EVAC) on Saturday, January 30, 2016, during EVAC’s annual end-of-the-year banquet.

In 2014, EVAC was placed on second-due status. As of May 16, 2015, the career staff returned to the station, and they became fully reinstated in running ambulance calls for the Emmitsburg community. EVAC’s President Mary Lou Little and Chief Rose Latini made many mentions of the great success the company had achieved over the past year that pushed the company back into service.

The emcee of the evening, Eric Stackhouse, started off the night by introducing the guest speaker, Frederick County Executive Jan Gardner. Gardner set the tone of “hard work pays off” by congratulating EVAC, with praiseful words: “You worked hard in 2015 to meet county standards and to be placed fully back in service, and that was a tremendous accomplishment.” She made note to the audience that EVAC’s fail response rate had dropped to less than two percent in 2015. Gardner fully extended her appreciation for EVAC’s hard work and dedication to the community and passed the audience’s attention back to Stackhouse, where he invited President Mary Lou Little to give her speech on the year’s success.

“Fundraising efforts remained very successful this year,” Little said, as administrative president. “Wednesday afternoon and Friday night bingos continue to bring new players in and regulars coming back.”

Little astonished the audience with a jaw dropping gross of $300,000 being earned just through their bingo fundraising efforts. EVAC holds an extra 50/50 game of bingo that brings thousands of dollars in each year to be donated back to the community through charitable non-profits. This year they raised over $6,000. Little concluded, “That’s the way we continue to be volunteers and save the county lots and lots of money.”

Chief Rose Latini added to Little’s comments when she took the stage for her speech, commenting, “Last year at this time, I wasn’t sure if we were going to be here again this year.” She applauded the company members as they stood up in the audience and thanked them for their dedication. “We didn’t sit idle. We trained, and trained again, and trained some more. And we continue to do so,” Latini said, pointing at the Zembower Trophy they were awarded from the Maryland State Fireman’s Association in recognition for their participation in formal training (only the second time awarded to Frederick County). The company recorded 90.3 hours per member of training from July 1, 2014, through June 30, 2015. Even though the company was set on second-due status, they never stopped working hard to overcome and grow as a company, adding fifteen new operational members to the team.

Overall, EVAC had 752 response calls from May through December after they were reinstated. With the help of Vigilant Hose Company 6, 1,089 EMT-related calls were attended to. As the company continues to improve and expand their team, they will be working closely with Company 6 to organize a better way to fill in holes and work with one another to better serve the Emmitsburg community. “Onward and upward—that’s our goal!” Latini concluded.

The banquet ended on a good note, with awards being given to the Top 10 Responders: Brandon Murdorf (81), Eric Stackhouse (69), C. N. Burriss (59), Jennifer Frushour (54), John Ruppel (47), Rose Latini (40), Lisa Eichelberger (40), Beth Ruppel (34), Amber Zimmerman (24), and Chad Zimmerman (20).

A Special Recognition Award was given to Career Officer Scott Johnson for entering the burning home on West Main Street in Emmitsburg, in search of the entrapped victims of the fire that took place in December 2015. Eric Stackhouse was presented the Jamie Eyler Volunteer of The Year Award and Pam Ellison was awarded the Donald B. Byard Humanitarian Award.

The President’s Award was given to Vicki Long, and the Rookie of the Year Award was presented to Brandon Murdorf. Jen Frushour was awarded the David Copenhaver Driver of the Year, and Eric Stackhouse was chosen as the Thomas L Topper EMS Provider of the Year. Lastly, Nicki Burriss was awarded the Chief’s Award.

2016 Operational Officers include: Rose Latini, Chief; Eric Stackhouse, Assistant Chief; Amber Zimmerman, Lieutenant; Chad Zimmerman, Lieutenant; Beth Ruppel, Sergeant; John Ruppel, Sergeant; Brandon Murdorf, Sergeant.

2016 Administrative Officers: Mary Lou Little, President; Eric Stackhouse, Vice President; Vicki Long, Secretary; Kim Bolin, Assistant Secretary; Pam Bolin, Treasurer; Beth Ruppel, Assistant Treasurer; and Directors Bob Dinterman, Diane Kelly, Donna Miller, and Ed Little.

Special thanks to Thurmont Community Ambulance Company 30 for their food service, as well as to Taneytown Volunteer Fire Company 5 for covering as fill-in crew during the banquet.

2016 Administrative Officers

2016 Operational Officers

Photos by Allison Rostad

Lewistown District Volunteer Fire Department Holds Annual Banquet

Deb Spalding

Volunteers of the Lewistown District Fire Department held their annual awards banquet on Saturday, February 6, 2016, in their banquet hall in Lewistown. Company President, Donald Stull, Sr., served as the master of ceremonies for the evening. He mentioned that the volunteers at Lewistown “have a lot of fun,” which was definitely demonstrated later in the evening with the presentation of the “Oopsies Awards”!

The invocation and benediction were given by Board Member Scott Martin.

Two members of the Lewistown VFD earned significant accolades over the past year. Outgoing Chief, Vicky Martin, was designated as Michael Wilcom Officer of the Year within the Frederick County Department of Emergency Services, and Chuck Jenkins was inducted into the 2015 Frederick County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association’s Hall of Fame.

Pastor Elza Hurst held a memorial service for four members who were laid to rest in 2015. Friends and family stepped forward to honor Fran Beahm, Donna Cook, Marlin Green, and Lester Rice.

Steve Stull presented Oopsies Awards. “These awards,” he explained, “celebrate the human condition to not be so perfect.” A golden toilet plunger; a Fischer Price blood pressure kit; an emergency pocket card, stating “Locked Inside Please Help”; and miniature traffic cones were just some of the comical awards distributed.

Vicky Martin presented the Chief’s Award to Wayne Stull. Wayne was a top responder on both the Fire and EMS side, as well as helping with numerous things around the station and being very active with fundraising. She mentioned that one man spends most of his time at the station, and recognized Donald Stull as that person. He is helped by his “firehouse wife,” Karen Stull. Vicky said, “She heads all fundraising efforts, bingos, dinners, etc., and keeps us in line and out of trouble.”

Donald Martin was recognized for keeping the apparatus and the building in working order.

Top Fire Responders for 2015 were: Vicky Martin (126); Beth Wachter (125); Wayne Wachter (121); Wayne Stull (118); Donald Martin (107); Steve Stull and Frannie Wachter (95); Mike Fogle (75); Donald Stull (60); Mike Stull (37); Lisa Monday (23).

Top EMT Responders for 2015 were: Beth Wachter and Wayne Wachter(157); Vicky Martin (137); Frannie Wachter (50); Mike Fogle (45); Steve Stull (38).

Emergency Medical Responders were: Stephanie Wachter (123); Brianna Wachter (104).

Fire police were recognized for their service, including Steve Stull, Doc Wachter, Ronnie Myers, Diana Bryant, Fred Bureau, and Bud Howerton.

2016 Officers were installed by Frederick County Director of Volunteer Fire & Rescue Services, Chip Jewell. Administrative Officers include: Donald Stull, Sr., President; Chuck Jenkins, Vice President; Karen Stull, Secretary; Mary Frances Bostian, Assistant Secretary; Lena Stull, Treasurer; Lisa Monday, Assistant Treasurer. Line Officers include: Mike Fogle, Chief; Mike Stull, Deputy Chief; Wayne Wachter, Jr., Assistant Chief; Doug Wallick, Jr., Assistant Chief; and Scott Stonesifer, Assistant Chief.

Board of Directors are Donald Martin, Steve Stull, Wayne Stull, Scott Martin, Scott Stonesifer, Jake Howell.

Vicky Martin presented a visual review of 2015. Special thanks were extended to Company 10 (Guardian Hose Company of Thurmont) for serving as the standby crew for the night.

G.T.’s Catering of Cascade, Maryland, prepared and served the meal. Congratulations to all who received awards and acknowledgements at this year’s banquet.

Donald Stull, Sr., closed the ceremony expressing his gratitude to the volunteers and for the support of the company over the past year.

Pictured from left are: (top row) Jake Howell, Scott Stonesifer, Wayne Wachter, Doug Wallick, Mike Stull, Mike Fogle; (front row) Donald Martin, Scott Martin, Wayne Stull, Steven Stull, Karen Stull, Donald Stull, Lena Stull, and Mary Francis Bostian.

Photo by Deb Spalding

Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company Holds Annual Banquet

Grace Eyler

Blizzard Jonas was not a deterrent on January 28, 2016, for members of the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company to hold their annual banquet at New Midway Fire Department. Friends, families, and members flocked to the local fire hall to celebrate this year’s successes for the fire company. As members found their seats, four-year-old Devin Humerick and Junior Treasurer Breezy Combs passed the time with a quick card game while others shared their stories of the recent blizzard.

President Dale Kline warmly welcomed Rocky Ridge Fire Company members and thanked them for their support throughout 2015. Company 10 in Thurmont covered calls for Rocky Ridge for the evening. Members lined up for a home-cooked meal, courtesy of their New Midway cohorts. After everyone finished dinner, apple pie—made by the Rocky Ridge Auxiliary—was served with ice cream.

Leading the awards ceremony, President Dale Kline asked Pat Riggs to come forward to speak in remembrance of her friend, Nancy Albaugh, who passed on March 19, 2015. “Nancy Smith married Richard Albaugh in 1954; she was pretty certain her future life would be revolved around the fire service…” Nancy was a charter member of the Auxiliary, as well as when it was formally recognized in 1955. Aside from Nancy’s dedication to the fire company, she was a truly devoted foster mom. Her daughters, Linda Northrup and Bonny Hurley, along with their brother Kevin, are also very involved members of the fire company.

“This year, we had our best-ever carnival!” Dale reflected. He then reflected on the company’s success, “What draws people to Rocky Ridge is, without a doubt, the food!” From 4:30 in the evening, the ham sandwich and French fry stand was loaded with customers, bringing in almost $115,000. The funds that are raised from the event go towards the upkeep of buildings and equipment.

This year, Rocky Ridge is celebrating sixty-six years in service. They started from the ground up, with just one shed next to Mount Tabor Church that housed one fire engine. “Today, we have two buildings with some of the most modern equipment in Frederick County, and nobody could be prouder of that than me,” Kline commented, as he continued to thank the members and their families in the audience for their support through these years.

The company is divided between operation and social members. The operation members run equipment and partake on calls, and the social members volunteer their time to raise money for the fire company to stay in operation and protect the surrounding communities. Last year, Rocky Ridge’s most popular fundraisers included the annual butchering, bingo, basket bingo, car show,  Ridgefest, gun raffles, and meat raffles. They also sponsor for the children of the community their annual Halloween party, Santa Detail, and Santa’s Workshop, all of which the community looks forward to each year.  The president welcomed new recruits to join the fire company in 2016.

Kline joked, “ As a social member, you receive an invite to this great banquet…but that’s all ya get!” Last year, the company had three new members join. They also boast well-known “Junior” members who are supervised by the Humerick family.

“I’ve got some of the greatest help that could ever be received,” said Kline, who recognized the highly competent members. Company officers were asked to stand in recognition of their contributions during the past year.

Administrative Officers include: Vice President Dennis Mathias; Secretary Paulette Mathias; Assistant Secretary Melissa Mathias; Treasurer Bun Wivell; Assistant Treasurer Bonny Hurley; Chaplin James Russell; and Directors, Andrew and Jamison Mathias, Donnie Kaas Jr., Wesley Burrier, Craig Hovermale, Leon “Buddy” Stover, and Steve Orndorff.

Operational Officers include: Chief Alan Hurley; First Assistant Jim Rice; Luke Humerick Second Assistant; and Captain Kevin Albaugh.

The Auxiliary Officers include: President Betty Ann Mumma; Vice President Nancy Summers; Secretary Bonnie Sander; Assistant Secretary Emily Grant; Treasurer Betty L. Mumma; Assistant Treasurer Helen Burrier; Historian Linda Northrup; Chaplin Pat Riggs; and Assistant Chaplin Nancy Baker.

Junior Fire Company Officers include: President Jolene Mathias; Vice President Jacob Dolly; Secretary Josie Kaas; and Treasurer Breezy Combs.

The president also called upon “Community Line Members” that included the Church of the Brethren, the Lutheran Church, and the United Church of Christ.

President Dale Kline then passed the attention over to the president of the Auxiliary, Betty Ann Mumma. She thanked New Midway’s Auxiliary for hosting the extensive dinner, as well as her own Auxiliary for this year’s accomplishments. She called upon the president to receive a $15,000 donation from the Auxiliary fundraisers. “Again, ladies and gentlemen, this shows us what can be done when we all work together as one organization.”

Mumma then invited Frederick County Executive Jan Gardner to share her thoughts on Rocky Ridge’s service to the community. “I just wanted to come up to say thank you to everybody who served the community this past week with the weather—wherever you might live—and for spending your weekends at the fire station. I really thank you for taking care of the people… on behalf of the county, we thank you.”

Bonny Hurley and Linda Northrup presented this year’s awards. Starting off, the recipient of the “Outstanding Junior Award” was given to Heather Hurley. The “Charles Mumma Firefighter of the Year” recipient was Robert Eyler. The Honorary Member award was given to Craig Hovermale. The “Outstanding Volunteer” in honor of Robert Albaugh, was presented to “our Super Woman,” Betty Ann Mumma.

Years of Service award pins were presented by Paulette and Dennis Mathias. Heather Mathias and Heidi Myers (5 years), Robert Black (10 years), Dawn Albaugh and Denny Ott (15 years), Donnie Kaas Jr. and Juliann Frantz (25 years). Dale Kline Jr. and Lewis Smith (35 years), Richard Weagley (40 years), and Robert Burrier (45 years).

Chief Alan Hurley came forward to present this year’s statistics for the fire company. This year’s team for Fire Police consisted of Alan Brauer Sr., Ronnie Hahn, Emily Grant, Steve Orndorf, and Carl Dolly. Rocky Ridge Fire Company ran a total of 185 calls during the past year. The top three call types were 81 calls involving the special unit and a tie between House Fires and Vehicle accidents, with each classification holding 18 calls. Operation personnel put in over 130 hours of training for the fire company. The busiest day during the week was Wednesday, and the busiest month was February, with 22 calls.

Luke Humerick joined the chief to recognize this year’s Top Ten Responders: Matt Moser (131), Alan Hurley (102), Kerri Gasior (100), Luke Humerick Jr. (95), Christina Hurley (92), Bonny Hurley (90), Leon Stover Jr. (82), Wesley Burrier (73), Kevin Albaugh (65), and Craig Hovermale (52).

This year’s recipient of the President’s Award was given to Leon “Buddy” Stover Jr. “It was ten degrees last weekend, and he was running around in the snow with his shorts on.” Kline recognized Buddy’s accomplishments, stating that, without a doubt, “This gentleman has done it all,” commending Buddy’s volunteer work in the fire company for over twenty years.

Luke and Connie Humerick (Supervisors of the Junior Fire Company) stood up to recognize the seven member’s, with a total of 309 hours volunteered during 2015. “They are hardworking, fun to be around, and I’m proud of them.” said Luke. The young members came forward to receive a gift of appreciation.

From one end of New Midway’s fire hall to another, the administrative, operational, auxiliary, and junior officers lined up in preparation for the induction. Bob Jacobs of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services, drew the evening to a close as he administered an oath while officers held their right hand in the air, promising to serve and protect “The Ridge” in 2016.

by James Rada, Jr.

Emmitsburg

Seeking Farmer’s Market Vendors

The Town of Emmitsburg is currently looking for vendors who want to offer their food items at the town’s Farmer’s Market this year. For more information, call 301-600-6303 or e-mail anaill@emmitsburgmd.gov.

South Seton Sidewalk Replacement

The replacement of the sidewalks on South Seton Avenue is expected to begin in March or April. Emmitsburg town staff also expects to be able to construct sidewalk from South Seton Avenue to Creamery Road, which will make it safer for students walking to Mother Seton School. The necessary rights of way have been obtained, and town staff is waiting for a memorandum of understanding with the State of Maryland, which could bring with it a total of $45,000 to go towards the project. A start date is not yet known.

Citizens Advisory Committee Appointment

The Emmitsburg Mayor and Commissioners unanimously appointed Wendy Walsh to be a member of the Citizens Advisory Committee on February 1.

Commissioners Get Overview of Town Audit

The Town of Emmitsburg received an unmodified opinion (good) in its annual audit of town finances, conducted by Draper and McGinley of Frederick. Last year, the town had assets of $42,112,883, up 11.6 percent from 2014. Water and sewer assets made up 86 percent of this amount. The town’s liabilities were $8,978,003, up 10 percent from 2014, and 91 percent were from the water and sewer accounts. The town’s net position increased 12 percent over 2014, showing that the town’s financial stability increased.

The audit is required of all municipalities to be conducted annually to make sure that they are following the best financial practices and, if they are not, to alert them to changes that need to be made.

For more information on the Town of Emmitsburg, visit www.emmitsburgmd.gov or call 301-600-6300.

From the Mayor

According to the National Weather Service, the massive snowstorm in January was the worst three-day snowstorm in the history of Frederick County. Thank you to our town staff and subcontractors for their tireless efforts. The cooperation between all levels of government was over-the-top to the benefit of the town. Fortunately, we experienced limited drifting and no power outages. Cost of the snow removal: $49,133.

Town Zoning Administrator Jerry Muir and I attended the County-sponsored solid waste management public forum on February 9 at the Thurmont Town Office. As the last of several countywide public forums, it was well attended. The Frederick County landfill has eighteen years remaining before it is full. Based on 2013 figures, the county generated 271,000 tons of material, of which 134,000 tons was diverted from landfill (49.5 percent) through recycling and composting. Of the balance, 90 percent of the material was trucked to neighboring states. Foreseeing many “ifs and buts” concerning the cost and availability of out-of-state options, County Executive Gardner selected community members to serve on a County Solid Waste Steering Committee last spring.

Libby and I, along with Councilman Glenn Blanchard and his wife, Maggie, attended the 27^th Annual Emmitsburg Ambulance Company Banquet and Awards Ceremony dinner. What a wonderful dinner. Congratulations to all the award winners.

Things are moving ahead on having a “dog park” in Community Park by late spring. The facility will have separate enclosed areas for large dogs and small dogs.

The State Highway Administration (SHA) – Town Square revitalization project has formally expanded to incorporate replacement of the sidewalks along Main Street, MD 140 (Main Street), from East North Avenue to Timbermill Run. The project was initiated by the town to enhance pedestrian safety (pedestrian, cyclists, and vehicular) at the square and along main thoroughfares. The improvements will be made under the State Urban Reconstruction Program (URP). Though it may seem like a long period of time from the inception and start of design in 2013, to the first meeting with the State Highway Administration (SHA) in October 2014, it has taken less than three years. Final review of plans is scheduled for June 2016, advertising (out for bid) in December 2016, and notice to proceed in late spring 2017. The estimated cost is $2.6 million. Thank you to town staff and the community for supporting this project. A special thank you goes out to former Secretary of Transportation, James Lighthizer, for visiting the square in 2013 and giving his support to the project.

Under another SHA program, work on replacing sidewalks along South Seton Avenue will start this spring. The East Main Street bridge replacement project is scheduled to start this fall.

Libby and I attended the 2016 Mount St. Mary’s University Athletic Hall of Fame luncheon. Congratulations to all the new inductees.

The Community Center gym is once again abuzz with activity; the gym is a wonderful complement to what is provided for our community activities.

Happy 80^th birthday to Father Charlie Kreig.

Update: Stavros has completed its hiring and is scheduled to open in early March. More commercial activity is in the works.

Thurmont

Cpl. Dave Armstrong Promoted

Dave Armstrong of the Thurmont Police Department was promoted to the rank of corporal on January 15. His promotion was recognized at a ceremony during the Thurmont town meeting on January 19.

Thurmont Police Chief Greg Eyler also recognized Officer Kyle Minnick for saving the life of a woman who had overdosed on an unknown substance by administering Narcan. He was awarded a lifesaving commendation.

Officer Torres was awarded a lifesaving commendation for saving the life of the same woman on a different date. She had again overdosed on an unknown substance and was saved with a dose of Narcan.

Officer Brian Donovan saved the life of a person who was in cardiac arrest and showing no vital signs. The patient was safely transported to Frederick Memorial Hospital, but he later died after suffering another cardiac arrest. Officer Donovan also received a lifesaving commendation.

Help the Thurmont Green Team

The Thurmont Green Team is looking for community input about sustainability in Thurmont. Please help by taking a short survey for the team at www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2491994/Thurmont-Green-Team-Community-Survey.

Work Begins Toward Handicapped-Accessible Playground

The Thurmont mayor and commissioners voted to support a proposal by the Thurmont Civitan Club to build a handicapped-accessible playground in Thurmont. The playground will replace the existing playground behind the Thurmont Senior Center.

The new playground will have a rubberized surface so that wheelchairs can roll around the playground. It will have pieces of equipment that will be able to be used by any child.

“We’re going to use what we can that’s already out there,” said Ginger Malone with the Civitan Club.

The projected cost of the playground is around $250,000, and will be completed in three stages.

Preliminary Costs from the Blizzard

Chief Administrative Officer James Humerick gave the Thurmont mayor and commissioners the initial costs to the town of the January blizzard that dumped around thirty inches of snow in the region.

The storm began at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 22, and staff was in to prepare for it at 7:00 a.m. that morning. Staff overtime ended at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 24. Fifteen public works employees worked 508 hours of overtime, and salaried staff worked an additional 128 hours of overtime. Fifteen pieces of equipment (twelve trucks, two backhoes, and a skid loader) were used in the snow removal. Overtime costs for the event are estimated at $15,423.

Chief Financial Officer Appointed

The Thurmont mayor and commissioners unanimously appointed Linda Joyce as the Thurmont Chief Financial Officer on February 9. She has twenty years of accounting experience, including fifteen years in municipal government accounting with Sykesville and Taneytown.

View the Town of Thurmont’s website at www.thurmont.com or call the town office at 301-271-7313 for more information.

Dha Dental of Emmitsburg

Just last month, after twenty-two years in Eldersburg, Maryland, Dr. Michael Hargadon DDS, MS consolidated his thirty-three year dental practice to only Emmitsburg. Since closing the Eldersburg office, he’s retained about thirty percent of his clients from that location who are traveling from the Eldersburg/Westminster area to see him. That says a lot about a dentist.

Dr. Hargadon started his career in Microbiology, working at the Baltimore Cancer Research Center, where he also obtained his Masters of Science in Microbiology. He entered Dental School in 1979, and received his DDS in 1983 from the University of Maryland at Baltimore.

He opened his first office in West Baltimore on Frederick Avenue. Within six months, he purchased another office on Eastern Avenue in Baltimore from the estate of Dr. Miksinski. At one point, he employed two associates and a part-time orthodontist. To simplify the greeting of Dr. Hargadon and Associates, he registered the name “Dha Dental.”

After about eight years, he closed the Eastern Avenue Office and moved his interest to Eldersburg in Carroll County, while continuing his practice in West Baltimore.

In 2007, after almost a quarter century, he left Baltimore City and opened his Emmitsburg Office in the old Knights of Columbus Building at 7-9 East Main Street, while continuing his practice in Eldersburg. He and his wife, Jane, who also serves as his office manager, own the building, which interested them due to its rich history.

The building was once the meeting place for the Knights of Columbus for Emmitsburg. It was also the “guild” for Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s canonization. It was the place where many of the testimonies and documentation of records were kept while Elizabeth Ann Seton’s “cause” was being considered.

“The building itself is a relic,” said Dr. Hargadon.

He originally found interest in Emmitsburg after meeting with his Spiritual Director, Father Jack Lombardi, the former Chaplain at the Grotto. Father Jack introduced him to pilgrimage, and to date, Dr. Hargadon has been on pilgrimage to Calcutta, Peru, Tanzania, and Haiti. All of these trips involved a range of dental services, from extracting a tooth on a woman in Mother Theresa’s House of the Dying, to seventy-five dental exams on Peruvian children at 14,000 feet above sea level, to extracting some one hundred twenty teeth in a week in Haiti.

Reflecting on the mission work, Dr. Hargadon expressed, “It struck me that we could be doing this at home as well.” Therefore, in Frederick County, he continues his pilgrimage as he provides dental services for the Frederick Rescue Mission and the Seton Outreach Dental Program.

The Dha Dental office has a warm feel. As you walk into the building, head straight back to the hall and open the door, Jane will warmly welcome you from behind the counter. The office also has two rooms to see patients, a lab, and parking in the rear of the office, as well as a wheel chair lift that is required by building code.

Dr. Hargadon provides general dental services, such as fillings, cleanings, bridges, crowns, dentures, extractions, etc. He rarely utilizes hygienists, doing most of his patients’ cleanings himself.

Dha accepts most insurance policies, and encourages anyone who has a question to call or stop in to see what they cover. He said some people are concerned with the type of dental policy they have, and might possibly avoid the dentist altogether. This could easily cause more damage if there is an existing dental problem. Dr. Hargadon can take preventative measures for patients, or at least give a heads-up as to what their dental future holds.

He and Jane have been married for forty-one years. They have four children and nine grandchildren. He has dabbled in politics through the years, ranging from being a state officer in a Maryland third party, to challenging Congressman Cummings for the GOP in Congressional District 7, to running for Central Committee and Delegate to the Convention.

The Hargadons love living along the base of Mary’s Mountain, where he tends with chickens and goats, and enjoys gardening. Jane is always planning her next trip out to the Midwest to spend time with their grandchildren.

For more information about Dha Dental, please call the office at 301-447-3585.

Dr. Michael Hargadon and his wife, Jane, of Dha Dental in Emmitsburg.

Photo by Grace Eyler

Sabillasville Resident Provides Heartfelt Mortuary Services Out of Westminster

Nicholas DiGregory

Few topics are more shunned by today’s society than the concept of death. In a world where modern science and medicine have prolonged life to considerable lengths, the idea of death has become merely an afterthought, albeit one that inspires a rather vicious response or fear and loathing.

And yet, death is an inevitable part of life. And while it should not be feared, death can bring immense sadness and vulnerability when it strikes a loved one. When a family member or close friend passes away, it can be hard enough to move on; the last thing many people want to think about at such a tragic time is making funeral arrangements.

Few individuals understand this fact better than . The twenty-seven-year-old Sabillasville resident and licensed mortician knows how hard coping with death can be, and with that in mind, he started Blacks Mortuary and Cremation Services.

Based out of Westminster in Maryland, Blacks Mortuary and Cremation Services provides a uniquely personal and heartfelt approach to the funeral process. As the owner and supervising mortician, Black focuses on providing affordable and unobtrusive care to those grieving the loss of a loved one.

“A casket is a casket, and a funeral is a funeral,” said Black. “It shouldn’t matter who’s providing the service as long as you like what was done and it made you feel good. That’s what it’s about at the end of the day. It’s not about buying the most or least expensive; it’s about what you can afford to make you feel good. And that’s really my goal, to make people feel good because it’s what they deserve.”

While Blacks Mortuary and Cremation Services is based out of a brick-and-mortar funeral home in Westminster, Black does not restrict himself or his company to any single location. Blacks Mortuary and Cremation Services offers viewings and funerals at places of worship and community venues as well, allowing for funeral arrangements that are less expensive but more personalized.

“We’ve adopted a business model that’s unique to this area,” said Black. “Our business model works off of the principle that we work out of another funeral director’s funeral home, and that contributes to us being able to provide a lower-cost service, since we do not have to deal with the overhead of building a brand-new funeral home.”

Another unique quality Blacks Mortuary and Cremation Services offer is in-home consultation. Black stressed that when a person is in mourning, there is no reason for them to have to travel from home to make funeral arrangements.

“We try to meet with people in the home,” said Black. “A lot of funeral directors make you travel all over God’s creation to come in to them, but we don’t think that’s appropriate when someone has lost a loved one. We bring the funeral home to you.”

In their special way, Blacks Mortuary and Cremation Services provides all of the traditional funeral services, and then some. In addition to the typical funeral, cremation, and burial options, Blacks Mortuary and Cremation Services also provides services for anatomical donation, mortuary shipping, cryonic suspension, and grave relocation. Most services are also available for cases of miscarriage or still birth, even as early as the first trimester.

Blacks Mortuary and Cremation Services is located at 254 East Main Street, Westminster, MD 21157. For immediate contact or to make funeral arrangements, call 443-292-5662 or 301-723-7180. General questions can also be addressed via email to blacksmortuary@gmail.com.

A Puppet Show at Weller United Methodist Church

It’s a puppet show! The Potter’s Hands presents “Stories of God’s Love” at Weller United Methodist Church in Thurmont on Saturday, March 12, 2016, at 7:00 p.m.

Tom’s Creek Supper

Tom’s Creek United Methodist Church in Emmitsburg is holding its Turkey & Oyster Supper on Saturday, April 9, 2016, from 12:00-6:00 p.m. The menu includes oysters, turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, and much more.

Save the Date for the USMH Open House

The University System of Maryland Hagerstown is holding an Open House on March 9, 2016, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. View the advertisement on page 27 for more information and visit their website at www.hagerstown.usmd.edu.

St. John’s Lutheran Church

On March 12, 2016, St. John’s Lutheran Church in Creagerstown is holding a Fried Oyster & Country Ham Dinner, from 12:00-5:00 p.m. The menu includes fried oysters, country ham, pasta salad, green beans, and more.

Fundraiser for Thurmont Food Bank

On Saturday, March 12, 2016, from 7:00-10:00 p.m., Senior Benefit Services, Inc. and 1st Look Properties invite you to join in the fun while fundraising. Just pay at door with a cash donation or nonperishable food item. Entertainment and Karaoke provided by The Firehouse DJ’s.

Thurmont Lions Club Cash Bingo

The Thurmont Lions Club is holding a Cash Bingo on Saturday, March 12, 2016, at the Guardian Hose Company Activities Building in Thurmont. Doors will open at 5:00 p.m., with bingo beginning at 6:45 p.m.

Catoctin High School Class of 2016 Safe and Sane Upcoming Fundraising Events

On March 19, 2016, an All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast and Easter Egg Hunt will be held at the Lewistown Fire Hall. Breakfast will be from 7:00-11:00 a.m.; the Egg Hunt will be from 11:00 a.m.-noon. On April 16, 2016, you won’t want to miss Glow Bowling at Taneytown Bowling Alley, from 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Blue Ridge Sportsmen’s Events

The Blue Ridge Sportsmen’s Association located on Waynesboro Pike, Fairfield, PA, is hosting many upcoming events in March, including a Wagner Shoot on March 5 and 19; a Cash Bingo on March 6; a Meat Night & Buffet on March 18; a Pool Tournament on March 19; a Breakfast with the Easter Bunny on March 26; and more.

Easter Drawing at Seton Family Store

Between March 2-22, 2016, purchasing customers at the Seton Family Store in Emmitsburg can enter the drawing to win an Easter basket or a Jubilee Food gift card. Winner to be drawn on March 22.

Lakeside Hall Bridal Showcase

On Sunday, March 13, 2016, visit the Bridal Showcase at Lakeside Hall at Fort Ritchie in Cascade, Maryland, from 12:00-3:00 p.m. Admission is free.

Save the Date for The Rock N Roll Relics

Save the date for the Rock N Roll Relics on Saturday, April 9, 2016, at the Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company building, located at 17701 Creamery Road in Emmitsburg, from 8:00 p.m.-midnight. Enjoy music from the 50s and 60s with The Rock N Roll Relics.

Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company’s Bingo Bash

Mark your calendar for the Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company’s Bingo Bash on April 2, 2016. Doors will open at 4:00 p.m., with games beginning at 7:00 p.m. Event features three $1,000 jackpots and a meal, plus twenty-two games, paying $250 each.

7th Annual His Place Car Show

Mark your calendar for the 7th Annual His Place Car Show, scheduled for Saturday, May 7, 2016, at Mother Seton School in Emmitsburg. Event features cars, trucks, hot rods, motorcycles, and tuner cars, along with three awards each for five categories, as well as door prizes, food, music, and more!

Guardian Hose Company Sponsors Yard Sale & Flea Market

On May 28, 2016, the Guardian Hose Company is sponsoring a Yard Sale and Flea Market at the carnival grounds in Thurmont. Spaces are available for $5.00 each.

American Legion 282 Auxiliary Spring Bazaar

Come out to the American Legion 282 Auxiliary’s Spring Bazaar on Sunday, March 13, 2016, at the Woodsboro American Legion, from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. The bazaar features over fifty crafters and vendors, plus a silent auction, food, and much more.

Harriet Chapel’s Pancake Supper Rescheduled

Harriet Chapel will hold its Pancake Supper—rescheduled from February due to snow—on Saturday, March 5, 2016, from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Fort Ritchie Community Center Bass Fishing Series

Fort Ritchie Community Center will be hosting the 2016 Bass Fishing Series on April 16, May 21, and June 18, with the championship held on August 13. The cost is $15.00 per event for youth; $35.00 per event for adults. Chance to win a $10,000 fish! Series sponsored by Cobblestone Hotel & Suites.

Frederick County Young Farmers to Hold Sportsman Drawing

The Frederick County Young Farmers (Frederick County Farm Bureau) will hold a Sportsman Drawing on Saturday, March 26, 2016, at the New Midway Fire Hall.  Donation is $25.00 per ticket. This is a BYOB event. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., a fried chicken and ham buffet dinner begins at 6:00 p.m., and drawing begins at 7:30 p.m. Event features a “guaranteed winner” raffle available the night of the dinner for a ticket that will be drawn as one of the top three prizes, as well as gun jars, tip jars, and door prizes.

Thurmont Thespians Present The Fantasticks

You won’t want to miss the musical The Fantasticks, presented by Thurmont Thespians. Performances will be held in March at the Thurmont American Legion. Tickets cost $15.00 per person ($35.00 per ticket for the Dinner Theater on March 19, which includes dinner and show).

Deerfield United Methodist Church Presents The Journey to the Cross

Join Deerfield United Methodist Church as they turn back the clock to over 2,000 years ago with their presentation of The Journey to the Cross on Palm Sunday, March 20, and Good Friday, March 25, at 7:30 p.m.

Flower Sale and Chicken BBQ

The Guardian Hose Company is sponsoring a Flower Sale and Chicken BBQ on May 6, 2016, from 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.; and May 7, 2016, from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Just in time for Mother’s Day, come out and see the large assortments of plants, flowers, bedding plants, and more.

“Take Care of Business” at the Thurmont Business Showcase

The 2016 Thurmont Business Expo will have some exciting changes, starting with the name. This year, the event will be titled the “Thurmont Business Showcase” and will be held Saturday, April 23, 2016, from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

They have a new and exciting location as well! The Thurmont Business Showcase will be held at the brand new Thurmont Community Ambulance Event Complex. By holding the event on a Saturday at a larger venue and for longer hours, local businesses can get a bigger “bang for their buck!”

They need your help to make the Thurmont Business Showcase awesome. They heard the many of you who expressed that it was time for changes, and they want you to know that they did not take your suggestions lightly: new venue, new day, and new times! They would like every business in the 21788 area to come back and help them make this event something prosperous and successful for everyone!

The Showcase will feature hourly demonstrations, such as do-it-yourself projects, fitness, cooking, and more! If you are interested in participating in the demonstrations, please email Vickie Grinder at vgrinder@thurmontstaff.com. Any business/non-profit with a 21788 mailing address may participate. The Thurmont Business Showcase is a Main Street Community event.

nstruDeb Spalding

The Catoctin FFA (formerly known as Future Farmers of America) Alumni sponsored an educational butchering fundraiser to raise money that will fund their annual banquet in May. The event took place on Friday, February 12, 2016, in the Catoctin High School agricultural area. It brought together an eagerness to learn the butchering process by as many as thirty-five students, paired with the talents and traditions taught by fifty-six volunteers from local farming families.

The day started at 6:30 a.m., when the hogs arrived already cut into halves from Horst Meats in Hagerstown. Pre-orders determined the number of hogs butchered. The number of hog’s butchered was up to twenty, from eighteen last year. From the point of pulling the halves off the truck, stations were set up where the various parts of the process were completed.

A long table was the center of the operation, where men and women were intent on cutting the large parts of the hog halves into smaller parts. The various parts were then taken to other stations for continued processing, weighing, and bagging.

Catoctin students, Madison Feltner and Lizzie Devilbiss, sorted rib and loin cuts into four-pound bags. Volunteers Steve Smith, Shea Smith, and Daryl Poffenberger bagged loose sausage. Catoctin students, Mackenzie Henderson, Carley Flora, and Josh Hubbard ground lard that would later be boiled in fired kettles to make cracklin’. Volunteer, Bernie Hobbs, and students, Cody Harmon and Megan Millison, separated cuts of lean meat and fats, passing them on to ground into sausage that would be sold loose or stuffed in casings.

Dave Shriver (Catoctin FFA Alumni member) volunteered his skills by cutting pork loins with bone into chops and cutting ribs into manageable pieces.

Outside, Bob Norwood and Rob McAfee, among many others, worked to tend fires under several cast-iron kettles, stirring the contents.

“We work with head meats and bony meats. Once meat leaves the bone, we strip it and grind it into puddin’ and scrapple,” explained Norwood.

Brian Hendrickson, Catoctin’s Ag Education Instructor, said, “Butchering is, for sure, an educational activity that teaches the science of butchering and the various parts of the process.”

This butchering event has been held annually at Catoctin for twenty-six years. The idea was suggested by then-FFA Alumni president, Gene Bollinger, and coordinated for many years by Catoctin’s former Ag teacher, Robert Beavan.

Denise Shriver, Catoctin FFA Alumni volunteer, has coordinated the butchering since 2010. Denise’s husband, Dave Shriver, who was manning the saw, gestured to the organized crowd of volunteers and said, “Many farmers just show up and volunteer. With a piece of mail they know to come on this day.” The butchering is always held on the second Friday in February.

The event was indeed an educational process, during which, generations of farmers passed along the process and traditions. Several families had as many as three generations represented at the event. Ashley McAfee (2012 Catoctin graduate, former FFA Ambassador, and former Maryland State FFA Officer), was there with her brother, Justin McAfee (current Catoctin senior), her father, Jeff McAfee (Catoctin FFA Alumni member), and her grandfather, Rob McAfee. Daniel Myers (2010 Catoctin graduate, former FFA Ambassador, and former Maryland State FFA Officer) was there with his father, Bobby Myers (Catoctin FFA Alumni member), and grandfather, Rodman Myers (Catoctin FFA Alumni member).

Shelby Hahn, a 2011 graduate of Catoctin, is now a junior at Penn State University, majoring in Animal Sciences. She said, “I’m happy to see that the program has grown. It’s something we use to educate the public, but it’s something that brings the community together and makes us special at Catoctin.”

Catoctin is the only school in the state of Maryland to host a full butchering. Maryland Public Television was on hand filming the butchering all day. The footage will be aired December 2016 in their Farm to Harvest series that highlights various unique agricultural events.

Matt Dellinger, FFA Alumni Association Vice President, was outside learning the kettles from “the older generation.”

“It brings community together with tenured farmers, community members, students, and businesses,” expressed Dellinger.

Much appreciation is extended to all of the volunteers who contributed to the success of the event.

Special thanks to the following: Hillside Turkey Farm and Jubilee Foods for donating the use of refrigerated trucks, Norman and Sandy Shriver for donating the bags used for packaging the meat, Mrs. Ruth Lenhart for the use of her family’s equipment, Robert Wiles for use of his equipment, and Paul Dennis for the use of his equipment.

Mackenzie Henderson, Carley Flora, and Josh Hubbard are shown volunteering during the Catoctin FFA Alumni Educational Butchering Fundraiser.

March Madness started early at the Fort Ritchie Community Center this year. As part of the Fitness Frenzy weekend, the Community Center hosted its inaugural Free Throw Shooting Contest.

The Fitness Frenzy weekend included a free sampling of group exercise classes, free day passes to the Community Center, and displays from local health agencies. Instructors led group workouts for Zumba, Les Mills BODYPUMP, Yoga, Pilates, Mix It Up, and Senior Stretch. Each sampling lasted approximately fifteen minutes. Organizations promoting health and fitness were onsite to share information and encouragement to Community Center members and visitors. Among the vendors were the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Washington County Health Department, Heal of Washington County, Visiting Angels, Synergy Massage & Wellness Center, and doTerra representatives.

Twenty-five local children and youth participated in the free throw event.  Congratulations to the winners in each age group: (8 years old and under) Reese Tuttle—female champion, Austin Morris—male champion; (9-12 years old) Reese Fox—female champion, Carson Hall—male champion; (13-15 years old) Nick Diaz—champion.

The Fort Ritchie Community Center features a fitness center, computer lab, group exercise classes, childwatch, and before school care. Upcoming events include the first of three bass fishing tournaments, sponsored by Cobblestone Hotel & Suites, on Saturday, April 16, 2016. For more information, visit www.thefrcc.org or see their ad on page 19.

Barkers 4 Blood Cancer, a Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Light the Night team, held their annual Dance 4 A Cure Zumbathon on Saturday, February 27, 2016, at the Emmitsburg VFW, benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. They raised $1,330 at the event!

They would like to thank everyone who came out, all of the businesses that donated items for their raffle, and the following people who made the event a success: Morgan Dempsey; Tracie Lee; Tracy Boylan; Sue Reid; Kelly Reid; Heather Smith; Angie Quigley; Sandi Cox; Megan Courtney; Shannon Cool; Andrea Poffinberger; Peggy Dewees; Mary Dewees; Patricia Beard; Jeff Ridenour; Gail and Alex Hayes; Fran, Eric, and Tyler Dempsey; Becky King;  Lynne Murray; Ginny Knight; Ronnie Overfelt; Michelle Weatherhogg; and the Emmitsburg VFW and staff.

For more information on their fundraising team, please visit pages.lightthenight.org/md/westmd16/barkers4bloodcancer. Pictures and information about the event are on their Facebook page: barkers4bloodcancer.

The ground has been tilled and marked, the garden design laid out, and the plans for watering put in place for the new Thurmont Community Garden.

A work day will be held on April 2, 2016, to install the garden’s fence and gates, establish walkways of plastic and mulch, and set plot numbers. Prior to this, the town will be setting the fence posts, constructing a stand to house water containers, delivering mulch, and posting the Community Garden sign.  The Green Team will conduct water checks and overall garden checks on a schedule to assist tenants and maintain order and tidiness. Greg Daniels, leader of the Community Garden project, will answer questions about water, plot size, cost, location, and so forth. Local Thurmont Cub Scout Troop 270 will assist with the work day.

Much appreciation is extended to Cousins Ace Hardware, who generously donated all the fencing and posts needed for the garden.

The Community Garden is located in the Carroll Street Park, just below the playground. Residents may lease 9’x11’ garden plots within the 30×100’ garden area for $25.00 each. For more information, please contact Greg Daniels at ThurmontGarden@gmail.com, or the Green Team at ThurmontGreenTeam@gmail.com.

Allison Rostad

A vision and hope for the next generation was prominent at the Guardian Hose Company’s annual banquet, held on Saturday, March 5, 2016, at the Guardian Hose Company’s Activities Building in Thurmont.

Emcee of the night, President Wayne Stackhouse, welcomed guests to a dinner (catered by GT’s Catering of Cascade), with an invocation from Chaplin Reverend James Hamrick. Guests from surrounding fire companies, volunteer ambulance companies, and local businesses attended the banquet in support of the company.

Reverend James Hamrick held a memorial service and asked for a moment of silence for the one deceased member, Donald Weddle, before beginning the presentation of the 2015 report, awards, and installation of officers.

Chief Chris Kinnaird presented the 2015 report, mentioning several new equipment upgrades, including 5.5 Scott CVA Packs, a compressor and fill station, and computers. The total call volume was down from 2014 to 469 calls, with 373 of them being first-due calls. The total fire loss was only $25,500, which was a good low number for the year.

Several new members joined in 2015. After announcing that Daniel Myers, a member’s son, had joined the company this past year, Kinnaird stated, “We need outsiders to come in, and we also need our families to continue this tradition of firefighting that we’ve started and that continues in this department for so many years.” The next generation of Frushour and Duble families are expected to become active within the next year, continuing the generation tradition within the fire company.

Certificates of appreciation were presented by Chief Kinnaird and Assistant Chief Carroll Brown to the Top 5 Drivers: Steve Yingling (59 alarms), Mike Duble (143 alarms), Wayne Stackhouse (161 alarms), Larry Duble (169 alarms), and Terry Frushour (299 alarms); and for Top Firefighter Responders: Stacey Stackhouse (59 alarms), Mike Beard (75 alarms), Bobby Black (115 alarms), Steve Strickhouser (125 alarms), David Sanders (137 alarms), Brad Weddle (169 alarms), Christopher Kinnaird (173 alarms), David Easterday (183 alarms), Brian Donovan (240 alarms), and Chad Brown (256 alarms).

Two additional Chief Awards were presented to Chad Brown and Brian Donovan, who “showed commitment, passion for their duties, and furthermore, a willingness to help out anywhere they could.” Both men continued their education; were top responders; helped at all, if not most, company functions; and planned and organized a new fundraiser for the company. They both responded to the Emmitsburg house fire on December 7, 2015, and assisted with the interior search and rescue of a downed subject. Brown and Donovan did what they were trained to do and, although the outcome did not go as expected, they were recognized for their courage and diligence in responding to the call and administering life-saving assistance where needed.

Chief Kinnaird closed out his presentation with remarks regarding the year to come, and the hope of its success. Chief Kinnaird then turned everyone’s attention over to President Stackhouse, who introduced Vice President Terry Frushour to present a certificate of appreciation to Bill and Howard (non-members) for their support and reconstruction help of building and projects throughout the past year. President Stackhouse then invited the chairman of the events committee, Bev Frushour to award a certificate of appreciation to AJ Hahn, who has always provided help and assistance during Guardian Hose Company events.

President Stackhouse then cut right to his presentation of awards for years of service: Brian Donovan (5 years), Joshua Bentz (15 years), James Demarais (15 years), Randy Demarais (20 years), Tisha Miller (20 years), Abby Valentine (20 years), Ross Smith III (30 years), Timothy Bentz (30 years), Carroll Brown II (35 years), Judith White (35 years), Steve Yingling (35 years), Terry Frushour (40 years), David Valentine (40 years), and Robert Wilhide (55 years).

Life Membership awards were also presented to Roxanne Angel and Jody Miller.

To conclude the evening, President Stackhouse thanked several businesses within the Thurmont community that stood behind the company and supported them with donations, along with anything that was asked of them throughout the 2015 year.

“The standards we set forth in our operations to serve the community when we’re called to duty would be difficult for us to maintain without their support for the fire company,” expressed Stackhouse.

Prior to the benediction, the 2016 Operational and Administrative Officers were installed.

Administrative Officers: President—Wayne Stackhouse; President Emeritus—Don Stitely; Vice President—Terry Frushour; Secretary—Lori Borwn; Assistant Secretary—Tisha Miller; Treasurer—Russ Shantz; Assistant Treasurer—Pam Fraley; Trustees—Brian Donovan, Jody Miller, Steve Strickhouser, Chad Brown, and Joe Ohler.

Operational Officers: Chief—Chris Kinnaird; Assistant Chief—Carroll Brown; Captain—Blaine Schildt; Sergeant—Chad Brown; Lieutenants—Sean Donovan and Will Gue.

Operational Officers

Administrative Officers

Emmitsburg’s Doughboy Stands Tall After Repair

Emmitsburg residents stood aside, eager to see the the “Doughboy” statue placed upon a new pedestal where it once stood before being knocked over by a truck in front of the Emmit House on West Main Street. George and Sons and Gilland Memorial Works joined together to hoist the bronze figure in place. The Doughboy monument helps us remember the service and sacrifice of local soldiers who served in World War I.

Emmitsburg Resident and WWII Veteran, Tom Hoke, joined others from Emmitsburg to watch the re-installation of the Doughboy monument on March 16, 2015.

Photo by Grace Eyler

Thurmont Food Bank Fundraiser

During the fundraiser for the Thurmont Food Bank in March, Senior Benefit Services and Firehouse DJ’s raised $500 for the cause. The Ladies Auxiliary AMVETS Post 7 donated $500 as well. Many food items were collected. Pastor Sally Joyner-Giffin, coordinator for the Food Bank, thanked everyone very much for the generous donations.

Karen of Senior Benefit Services said, “We understand the importance of supporting the community, and what better way than contributing to the Food Bank!”

Thanks to everyone who joined in the festivities and contributed so generously.

Pictured from left are Phyliss Nizer, Barb Plovock, Shawn Graff, Paster Sally Joyner-Giffin, and Karen Simundson.

Photo by Grace Eyler

Local Frederick Animal Welfare Group Offers Free Spay/Neuter and Rabies Vaccines

Through a grant from the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA), Tip Me Frederick (TMF), a local animal welfare group, offers residents in Thurmont and other areas of northern Frederick County assistance in humanely managing the area’s community cats by offering them access to free spay/neuter and rabies vaccination services. TMF has conducted four free spay/neuter and rabies vaccination clinics to date and is taking reservations for upcoming clinics throughout the rest of 2016.

For more information or to reserve a spot at the next free clinic, please visit www.tipmefrederick.org, email info@tipmefrederick.org, or call 301-845-1061.

Meat Raffle

On Friday, April 29, 2016, a Meat Raffle will be held at the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with dinner beginning at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $10.00. View the advertisement on page 37 for more details.

Baltimore Work Camp Big Money Bingo

Come out to the Baltimore Work Camp Big Money Bingo at Mother Seton School in Emmitsburg on Saturday, April 23, 2016, to support OLMC/SA and St. Joseph’s. Doors will open at 5:00 p.m., with games starting at 7:00 p.m. Tickets include: All-inclusive 9 pack and spaghetti dinner (5:00-6:30 p.m. only). Must be 18 years old to play. View the advertisement on page 9 for more information.

2^nd Annual Fun Festival

On Saturday, May 21, 2016, the 2nd Annual Fund Festival will be held at Victory Tabernacle on Kelly Store Road in Thurmont, from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. The event features free games and prizes (ages 12 and under); free door prizes, free face painting, free snacks and drinks, and free live music. Meet Princell Leia and Chewbacca! View the advertisement on page 12 for more information.

Guardian Hose Company’s Sportsmans Bingo

Come on out for the Guardian Hose Company’s Sportsmans Bingo on Saturday, April 16, 2016, at the Thurmont Activities Building. Doors will open at 5:00 p.m., with bingo beginning at 6:30 p.m. Bingo features twenty games; tip jars, door prizes, jackpot games, 50/50, and more. View the advertisement on page 15 for more details and how to get your tickets.

Vigilant’s Annual Spring Fling  —   LOCATION UPDATE  —

Get your tickets now for Vigilant Hose Company’s Annual Spring Fling on Saturday, May 21, 2016. LOCATION UPDATE: This event will now be held on Echo Field at Mount St. Mary’s University. Spring Fling features $30,000 given in prizes, plus horseshoes, food, 50/50 tip jars, live music, and much more. View the advertisement on page 44 for how to get your tickets today!

Thurmont Business Showcase

The Thurmont Business Showcase will be held on April 23, 2016, from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. The showcase is free and open to the public. This will be the first event at the new Thurmont Ambulance Event Complex! View the advertisement on page 3 for more information.

Trinity UCC Holds Benefit Breakfast for Wyatt Black

Trinity United Church of Christ (UCC) is holding Benefit Breakfast for Wyatt Black (all-you-can-eat) on Saturday, April 16, 2016, from 6:00-11:00 a.m. View the advertisement on page 17 for more information.

Thurmont Lions Club Sandwich Sales

Thurmont Lions Club Sandwich Sales (pit beef, pit pork, pit turkey, and pit ham) will be held one-and-a-half miles north of Thurmont (west side of Rt. 15) on Saturday, April 30, 2016, from 10:00 a.m.-3 p.m. (or until sold out). View the advertisement on page 40 for more information and to see additional dates for their Sandwich Sales.

Ladies Day at Catoctin Church of Christ

Join the Catoctin Church of Christ for Ladies Day on Saturday, April 23, 2016, from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Registration and a light breakfast begins at 8:00 a.m. Enjoy spiritual encouragement prayer, songs, food, and Christian fellowship. View the advertisement on page 41 for more details.

April Showers Garden Party

You won’t want to miss the April Showers Garden Party, being held at St. Joseph’s Church Hall in Emmitsburg, on Saturday, April 30, 2016, from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Event features dinner, raffle, auction, music, hat contest, and more. View the advertisement on page 17 for more information.

Thurmont Middle School PTA Hosts Thirty-One Bingo

The Thurmont Middle School PTA is holding a Thirty-One Bingo event on Sunday, May 1, 2016, at the Lewistown Fire Hall. Doors will open at 11:00 a.m., with games beginning at 1:00 p.m. Come on out and help support TMS students! View the advertisement on page 14 for more information.

FRCC Bass Fishing Series

Fort Ritchie Community Center (FRCC) will be hosting the 2016 Bass Fishing Series on April 16, May 21, and June 18, with the championship held on August 13. The cost is $15.00 per event for youth; $35.00 per event for adults. Chance to win a $10,000 fish! Series sponsored by Cobblestone Hotel & Suites. View the advertisement on page 19 for more information and for additional upcoming events.

7th Annual His Place Car Show

Mark your calendar for the 7th Annual His Place Car Show, scheduled for Saturday, May 7, 2016, at Mother Seton School in Emmitsburg. Event features cars, trucks, hot rods, motorcycles, and tuner cars, along with three awards each for five categories, as well as door prizes, food, music, and more! View the advertisement on page 31 for more information and for a schedule of events.

Tom’s Creek Turkey & Oyster Supper

On Saturday, April 9, 2016, Tom’s Creek United Methodist Church is hosting a Turkey & Oyster Supper, from 12:00-6:00 p.m., featuring a bake table. View the advertisement on page 38 for more information and to see what’s on the menu.

Guardian Hose Company Sponsors Yard Sale & Flea Market

On May 28, 2016, the Guardian Hose Company is sponsoring a Yard Sale and Flea Market at the carnival grounds in Thurmont. Spaces are available for $5.00 each. View the advertisement on page 11 for more details.

Blue Ridge Sportsmen’s Events

The Blue Ridge Sportsmen’s Association located on Waynesboro Pike, Fairfield, PA, is hosting many upcoming events in April, including a Hunter Safety course; a Cash Bingo on April 3; a Pool Tournament on April 9; a 3D Archery Shoot on April 10; a Shuffleboard Tournament on April 17 at 1:00 p.m.; and more. View the advertisement on page 8 for more event information.

Flower Sale and Chicken BBQ

The Guardian Hose Company is sponsoring a Flower Sale and Chicken BBQ on May 6, 2016, from 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.; and May 7, 2016, from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Just in time for Mother’s Day, come out and see the large assortments of plants, flowers, bedding plants, and more. View the advertisement on page 28 for more information.

CYA Football & Cheer Information Night

Come out to meet the CYA Football and Cheerleading coaches, hear from players and cheerleaders, and check out football pads and gear at the CYA Football & Cheer Information Night on Thursday, April 7, 2016, at 7:00 p.m. at the Thurmont Regional Library. View the advertisement on page 23 for more details and for information on registering for football or cheerleading.

CHS 2016 Safe and Sane Fundraising

On April 11, an All-You-Can-Eat Pizza fundraiser will be held at Rocky’s Pizza in Thurmont, from 5:00-9:00 p.m. On April 16, come out to the Glow Bowling event at Thunderhead Bowl & Grill in Taneytown, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. On April 23, a Cash Bash will be held at the Emmitsburg Fire Hall, from 4:30-8:30 p.m. View the advertisement on page 13 for more information.

Dan McCarthy Performs at Trinity United Methodist Church

Join Trinity United Methodist Church in Emmitsburg on Sunday, April 3, 2016, at 6:30 p.m. for a performance from Dan McCarthy, folk/rock artist, singer-songwriter, and leader of the Christian Praise Band in Hagerstown. View the advertisement on page 13 for more details.

Emmitsburg Community Heritage Day History Art Contest

The Emmitsburg Community Heritage Day Art Contest is open for students in first through tweleth grades, in Frederick, Carroll, and Adams (PA) counties. All artwork should reflect the theme ”Civil War Retreat through Emmitsburg.” There will be cash prizes awarded in three divisions. View the advertisement on page 38 for more details.

Elvis Gospel Show

Come out to the Rocky Ridge Church of the Brethren on Sunday, April 17, 2016, at 6:30 p.m. for the Elvis Gospel Show, presented by Kevin Booth. Admittance is free, but a free-will offering will be taken. View the advertisement on page 6 for more information.

Grill Demos at Zurgable Brothers Hardware

Come out to Zurgable Brothers Hardware in Emmitsburg on Saturday, April 9 and April 30, 2016, from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., for live demos of the Holland Grill (April 9) and the Grill Dome (April 30). View the advertisement on page 11 for more information.

Cash Bingo at Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company

On May 1, 2016, the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company Auxiliary is holding a Cash Bingo, featuring twenty regular games, two special games, jackpots, holder jars, door prizes, and more. View the advertisement on page 14 for more information and on how to get your tickets.

Nicholas DiGregory

To the typical wandering traveler, cruising up or down U.S. Route 15, the little town of Emmitsburg does not appear to be a major attraction. While the town’s tourism landmarks—such as the stately National Shrine of Elizabeth Ann Seton and the picturesque Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes—do draw a crowd, Emmitsburg itself can easily be overlooked on maps and guides dominated by more popular destinations in cities like Gettysburg or Frederick. To an unknowing tourist, the little town of Emmitsburg appears to be just that—a little town.

However, looks can be deceiving. Beneath the quaint, small-town look and feel of Emmitsburg is a tightly knit community of friends and neighbors, many of whom have lived in the area for their entire lives. It is the strength of this community that gives the town of Emmitsburg a uniquely vibrant character.

While the quality of the community has always been the primary motivating factor for Emmitsburg’s prosperity, the strength and unity of that community has been challenged over the past few months by an unexpected controversy, which arose from Emmitsburg’s own Mount St. Mary’s University.

In the early autumn of 2015, disagreements between the university’s administration and its faculty reached a breaking point, with the then-president Simon Newman pioneering for changes that many at the university believed to be unethical. When the arguments boiled over into the community, many local faculty members, staff members, students, and alumni picked a side in the increasingly vociferous debate. The debacle at Mount St. Mary’s gained national attention from such sources as The Washington Post and several scholarly societies from across the country.

The resignation of university president Simon Newman, whose policies were at the center of the dispute, indicates that the school desires to move past the controversy; however, the decision has come too late for many members of the Emmitsburg community. Lack of straightforward communication from the university, coupled with sensationalized reports in local and national media, have left the community of Emmitsburg with few facts and many wounds.

We, at The Catoctin Banner, hope that the information that follows helps to resolve many of the questions that may remain regarding the whirlwind of allegations and accusations that have poured out of Mount St. Mary’s University over the past few months. It must be noted that The Catoctin Banner does not support any involved party other than the community as a whole; our efforts to present what transpired at Mount St. Mary’s University are not intended to harm, but to encourage healing among the embittered parties for the good of the community.

What follows is a documented account of the events that transpired at Mount St. Mary’s University over the past few months.

In the fall of 2014, the Mount St. Mary’s University met with three candidates for the university presidency, which was set to be vacated by Thomas Powell after eleven years of service. Upon reviewing the candidates, the university’s Board of Trustees selected Simon Newman as the 25^th president. Trustee member and Mount alumnus Francis W. Daily said that Newman was selected primarily for his financial experience, although communication skills and Catholic identity also played a part in the hiring.

At the time, Mount St. Mary’s was dealing with considerable debts; Newman’s financial expertise was a necessity for the struggling university. A fifty-one-year-old from the United Kingdom, Newman held almost thirty years of experience in the financial sector, specifically in private equity, strategy consulting, and financial operations. During that time, he led several businesses from the brink of bankruptcy, coordinating for more than $200 million in profit improvement.

Newman took charge of the university on March 10, 2015, five months earlier than expected. In an editorial piece, the editing staff of the Mountain Echo student newspaper welcomed Newman to his new position. While the authors of the article cited that Newman would have “his work cut out for him” in improving and increasing the campus’ living spaces and other facilities, they also affirmed that there was “utmost faith” in his ability to “guide the university through these times of concern.”

Newman’s program for improving the university, deemed Mount 2.0, outlined several key changes in the university’s programs and functions. Newman, with the support of the Board of Trustees, implemented several changes to the university’s academic development and marketing. Among other major changes were a re-evaluation of the core curriculum and the addition of two new financial programs: Enterprise Resource Planning and Customer Relationship Management.

While Newman’s financial decisions were originally lauded by the majority of those at the university, he came under fire for one particular decision in October 2015. On October 29, 2015, Mount St. Mary’s administration notified its employees of the elimination of the university’s long-held retiree health care benefits. Prior to this announcement, retired employees of the university that had served before 1996 were allowed to remain on the university’s health care plan. After Newman’s adjustments, these employees were removed from the program, as well as spouses of current employees. Retirement fund benefits for current employees were also cut in half.

While many retired and current employees of the university acknowledged that these benefits could not be funded forever, they criticized the way that Newman and the university administration went about implementing the changes. In a letter from three retired professors addressed to members of the university community, it was stated that the retired professors were “shocked” by the “very abrupt termination of the retiree health benefit.” The letter also stated that Newman implemented the changes behind the backs of many of the retirees.

“We were also shocked by the way we were informed—by receiving a letter in the mail or an email, and in some cases, not being informed at all,” the letter read.

While the administration assured that the benefit cuts were necessary for the continued operation of the university, members of the university community began to distrust Newman’s methods. This distrust reached its climax on January 19, 2016, when the Mountain Echo reported that Newman’s newly-created student retention plan was engineered to ensure the dismissal of twenty to twenty-five of the university’s worst-performing students. Additionally, the article referenced a conversation between Newman and Professor Greg Murray, where Newman allegedly referred to poorly-performing students as “bunnies” that needed to be drowned or have a “Glock to their heads.”

The university’s administration responded swiftly to the article, condemning it as “grossly inaccurate.” A subsequent statement from John E. Coyne, the chairman of the Board of Trustees, confirmed that Newman used the “inappropriate metaphor” but denied that Newman’s new retention program targeted unintelligent students for dismissal. Coyne’s statement blamed the misinformation on an “organized, small group of faculty and recent alums working to undermine and ultimately cause the exit of President Newman.”

Opponents of Newman and the administration were further inflamed in February, when Newman ordered the termination of two university faculty members, one of which was tenured. Professors Thane Naberhaus and Edward Egan were escorted off campus by security, and their university equipment was seized. Newman himself did not address the men about their termination, but rather had letters delivered to the professors, stating that their termination was due to unspecified violations of university policy.

The majority of the faculty members believed that the terminations were retaliatory, as both men had objected to Newman’s policy changes. While the university offered later that same week to reinstate both professors, the damage had already been done. Articles about the university’s termination of the professors—one of whom still had tenure—were published in several local newspapers, as well as The Washington Post. Letters to the editor of the Mountain Echo poured in from current and past members of the university community; some stood with the faculty while others sided with Newman.

In light of the national publicity, the university faculty members voted overwhelmingly in favor of asking for Newman’s resignation. Despite the 87-3 vote, Newman insisted that he had no intention to resign.

On February 29, 2016, Newman did step down from the presidency. The Board of Trustees appointed Karl Einoff as the acting president.

James Rada, Jr.

In early March of this year, Mike Fitzgerald’s children performed a sad duty in honor of their father: they made his casket from standing dead trees that Mike had harvested years earlier.

Donald “Mike” Fitzgerald passed away on February 28, 2016, in the log home that he built himself. He was eighty-five years old.

The Shamrock Restaurant, which Mike opened in 1963, closed for a few days when it was learned that Mike had died. It reopened a week later, and now stands as a legacy for Mike’s hard work and love of family.

About Shamrock Restaurant in a 2014 interview, Mike Fitzgerald said, “There were days and nights in a row that I wouldn’t go home. I would be working here doing whatever needed to be done and then I would sleep here.”

The Shamrock was created out of an old dance hall. The walls were stripped and redone, turning the dance hall side of the building into the dining room. Only two rows of tables had tablecloths, originally, and a smaller dance floor was left in place for weekend dances.

On the bar side, Mike raised the price of beers to encourage the troublemakers, who used to come to the dance hall for cheap beer, to go drink elsewhere.

The Shamrock was a family business. Mike, his wife Doris Jane, his mother, and his nine children (as they grew old enough), all worked in the restaurant.

Mike had been a machinist with Moore Business Systems, but he had advanced as far as he could without moving out of state. He had grown up in a restaurant family, though. His parents had owned Fitzgerald’s in Emmitsburg until his father died in 1940. Mike and Doris Jane had decided that they could open a new restaurant and make it successful.

The Shamrock was the first restaurant in Frederick County to get a liquor license in 1965.

The restaurant also won a national award years ago for having the best St. Patrick’s Day party in the nation.

Mike’s living legacy, however, is his family. He is survived by his wife of sixty-eight years, Doris Jane (Wastler), and nine children: Donna (and TJ) Demmon of Thurmont; Dennis (and Dianne) Fitzgerald of Huntsville, AL; Dawn (and Donald) Knox of Taneytown; Diane (and David) Stottlemyer of Thurmont; Debra Oster of Thurmont; Daniel (and Heather) Fitzgerald of Emmitsburg; David (and Bonny) Fitzgerald of Emmitsburg; Darrell Fitzgerald of Frederick; and Dean (and Cecilia) Fitzgerald of Frederick. He also has seventeen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren who will all remember him.

The Town of Thurmont owes him a debt for helping establish the Thurmont Community Park and donating it to the town while he was president of the Thurmont Jaycees. He also helped in the creation of Catoctin Colorfest, which allows many non-profit organizations in town to raise a lot of money each year. He was the charter president of the Thurmont Colt’s Corral Chapter 12. Fitzgerald and his friend, Vernon Myers, also launched the Catoctin Youth Association.

He was interred in St. Anthony’s Catholic Church Cemetery.

Beth Watson is ready for her final bow, and when the curtain drops on the final performance of Footloose in the fall, the Thurmont Thespians twenty-year run will come to an end.

“It’s time,” said Watson, adding, “even if it’s going to be hard to give up something you love so much.”

Watson and her husband, Spence, moved to the Thurmont area in 1993 and formed the Thurmont Thespians a few years later. It originally began as an organization to train and inspire young actors and allow them to perform. It eventually expanded into an organization for adults that performed multiple shows each year at the Thurmont American Legion. During that time, it became a cultural staple for Thurmont.

“We both founded it, but it was his genius that got it going, not mine,” expressed Watson.

Watson retired after directing The Fantasticks in March. The performance of Footloose in the fall will be directed by Rosalyn Smaldone, who actually came up through the Thurmont Thespians program, learning her skills first in the children’s workshops, then as an actor with the group, and now finally as a director.

“I think it speaks well for the program that our last production is directed by someone who came through our program,” Watson said.

When Footloose closes, so will the Thurmont Thespians. It will be the sixty-fifth performance staged by the theater group.

“I’m really proud that we produced three original musicals over the years,” Watson said. This includes a play about autism that actually went on tour to Washington, D.C.

Although Watson still loves the stage, she is eighty-one years old and feels it is time to quit. Also, she points out that managing the group has been a heavier burden to run since Spence died in 2014.

Watson’s love of the stage is not surprising. She and Spence met onstage playing opposite each other in a dinner theater in Wilmington, Delaware, in 1980. They were married thirty years.

Out of the sixty-five shows the Thurmont Thespians have performed, her favorite production is The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, which they produced in the middle of the summer. She knew the author of the book and was able to tie in author events with the performances.

She has acted in, as well as directed, shows. She has even been able to perform with family. She and Spence acted together in Gin Game and Love Letters, and she performed with her daughter in Grace and Glorie.

Her main goal with the Thurmont Thespians, though, has always been to teach children to love the theater.

“I love the theater, and I think it teaches kids a lot,” Watson said. “The Thurmont Thespians was also able to provide something they couldn’t get in school.” She estimates that approximately three hundred children have attended the summer workshops for children held every year. Some children came back summer after summer and fell in love with the theater. Others only attended one summer and decided that it wasn’t for them.

However, keeping the program running requires a lot of time and effort. It also requires a lot of fundraising, which she never liked doing.

Once she retires, Watson said the first thing she is going to do is rest and relax.

Nathan Kopit, Emily Cofer, Beth Watson, and Rachel Johnson. Nathan, Emily, and Rachel participated in the Thurmont Thespians summer program and had lead roles in the adult production of The Fantasticks in March 2016. Emily and Rachel were both in productions as preschoolers, as they had older siblings in the program.

Beth Watson is shown teaching students in the Thurmont Thespians Program, her main goal always being to teach children to love the theater.

Deb Spalding

We all catch a cold or a flu bug now and then, but at the end of February of this year, 15-year-old Wyatt Black of Thurmont caught a very serious infection: bacterial meningitis.

Wyatt is an active, fun, farm-grown teenager. He plays sports, loves baseball, trains, and fire trucks, and is quick with a joke to brighten your day.

His extended family is well-known in the area as the proprietors of Catoctin Mountain Orchard. For generations, members of the Black family have proven themselves to be valuable members of the community and stewards of the land. That tradition continues today, with the youngest generation of Blacks, including Wyatt and his younger brothers, Nathan and Eaves, contributing to the orchard operation.

His parents, Christopher and Kiona Black, often show up to community functions with fresh fruit, a pie, or some other orchard-grown offering of good will. You could say, they’ve “got your back” regarding your sweet tooth. As of late, the entire Catoctin Community now has “got their back,” too!

When Wyatt began his fight against meningitis, he was taken to Penn State Children’s Hospital in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where he received exceptional care. From the beginning of his battle, his parents took to social media to give updates about Wyatt’s condition.

What they didn’t foresee was that those updates, via social media, would spread to thousands of people. The updates served to “rally the troops,” so to speak, for community members and friends to join together and flood the cosmos with prayers, community good-will, community spirit, and energy—all directed towards Wyatt’s battle against the infection.

The volume of action people have taken for Wyatt is astounding. People chanted “Wyatt! Wyatt! Wyatt!” at a fundraiser at the Furnace Bar & Grill in Thurmont; local students sent him drawings for his birthday; “Wyatt Strong” t-shirts are being sold; a “Fill the Boot” fundraiser was held; “Wings for Wyatt” is on-going on Wednesdays at Bollinger’s Restaurant in Thurmont; “Wioters Unite!” wristbands are being sold; and Catoctin High School Baseball is “Team Wyatt.” Catoctin FFA sponsored “Miles for Meningitis,” where participants were able to “beat” meningitis by taking a sledge hammer to a vehicle; a TES Talent Show featured Erin Bollinger, Hayley Bollinger, and Austin Ridenour “Whippin For Wyatt”; Kountry Kitchen Restaurant and Cousins ACE Hardware in Thurmont and Harrington & Sons in Emmitsburg posted messages for Wyatt on their marquis or store windows; a parade was held; raffles, auctions, and ribbon drives have been held; signs and banners state support; cookies were sold for Wyatt; lemonade was sold for Wyatt; food and gifts have been donated; and let’s not forget the many families, individuals, churches, and communities who continue praying for Wyatt.

We are sure we have missed naming many additional wonderful efforts and people here. Two upcoming events that we’ve learned about include “Wheels for Wyatt Car Show” at the Thurmont Carnival Grounds on April 9, 2016, and an All-You-Can-Eat Benefit Breakfast for Wyatt Black at Trinity United Church of Christ in Thurmont on April 16, 2016.

If a community can unite to heal a person, Catoctin’s community is doing it!

Meningitis is an infection of the membranes that protect the spinal cord and brain. When these protective membranes become inflamed, it has a harmful impact on every part of the body. At times our bodies can combat the bacteria and move on as if it were a common bug; yet, sometimes, it is a serious infection that sometimes leads to impairment or fatality.

In mid-March, after successfully breathing on his own and having his intubation tube removed, Wyatt was transferred to Penn State Hershey Rehabilitation Hospital, also located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Since arriving there, rehabilitation therapies have shown that he is able to write to communicate, but some skills need further development. Chris gave an update on Monday, March 28, “Today makes one week at rehab, they are anticipating another 3-5 weeks till he comes home. He receives speech, physical and occupational therapy daily. He needs to work on walking. He is getting better every day with swallowing. They are saying that he cannot open his eyes yet because the infection is still present in that part of his brain.”

Every day, our community has stood by Wyatt and his family, and continues to do so. The social loop on the internet has provided a fluent portal to communicate support and prayers.

While the medical doctors have not given a clear answer as to the magnitude or speed of Wyatt’s recovery, the Blacks have been assured by former patients that, “Wyatt will be just fine. It just takes time.” But, the fight is not won yet. It is a long recovery process for meningitis.

One friend on Facebook posted, “Thank you to all that have been praying. He’s been making great improvements and will continue to get back to the old Wyatt with all of your prayers, positive thoughts, and energy. This kid is truly a class act. We need more Wyatts in this world!!”

On March 24, Kiona posted, “Every day I am thinking of new ways to help Wyatt recover. Today he showed signs that he has both retrograde and anterograde amnesia when it comes to certain topics… Please post a favorite funny story that I can share with Wy and his brothers to help him rebuild his memory bank and to create an activity that the Brothers Three can do together. Having the Middle and Little involved in the story telling should help all of them start to move forward…together.”

The Blacks graciously thank everyone for their generous donations. There are not words to express gratitude for all of the support and caring that the Catoctin Community has shown!

About Wyatt, Chris and Kiona expressed, “We know in our hearts that he will make a full recovery. He has shown so much fight since day one.”

See Kiona’s (Wyatt’s mom) “Love Letter to my Sons” on page 31.