From the monthly archives: "January 2017"

Thurmont Ambulance Company Opens Event Complex

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Deb Spalding

The members of the Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, Inc. have officially opened a large facility for public event rentals and their own fundraising activities. This 28,600-square-foot venue was designed by Company member, Jim Rice. It is situated on 21.5 acres of ground, adjacent to the Thurmont Little League baseball fields in Thurmont, and accessed by Lawyer’s Lane off of Route #550.

The 10,000-square-foot main room seats eight hundred people spaciously, and can accommodate many more, standing. The stage is 46’x18’ and is accessed by stairs or a lift. Five ambulance bays, a storage bay, and a huge, and a fully-equipped (thanks to a gracious donor) kitchen complete the spacious facility. From the main room, there are several serving windows, including a self-serve soda fountain and two bar windows.

Future plans include the use of the grounds for festivals, weddings, and outdoor events. In the future, pavilions and amenities will be built on the grounds for that purpose. The water wheel from the former Cozy Restaurant will eventually be installed in some manner for all to enjoy.

The Company’s president, Lowman Keeney, said, “The construction took two-and-a-half years, and there were many road blocks. Our own membership did a tremendous amount of the work.” Donations and grants were heavily relied upon throughout the process. Funding was provided through Frederick County Bank, with Denise Guyton Boyer and Roxan Welch managing the allocation. “Thanks to all who volunteered to make the project come to life,” expressed Keeney.

Renters may either arrange that the Ambulance Company to cater their events or rent the facility and contract their choice of caterer. The Ambulance Company has a full liquor license for events they sponsor. The Ambulance Company has planned sportsman dinners, seafood feeds, bingos, and concerts inside the complex, beginning with an Open House for the community to tour the facility on February 11, 2017, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Upcoming events include a Turkey, Ham & Oyster Dinner on February 18, a Wing & Fried Shrimp Feed on March 25, a Pot Pie & Fried Chicken Feed on March 31, and the band, The Amish Outlaws, on November 11.

“We appreciate when citizens attend a function, because their participation comes back as a donation for the community to provide emergency services. The alternative is paying taxes for the services. We do have twelve-hour career staff from 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday,” said Keeney.

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The spacious main room at the new Thurmont Community Ambulance Event Complex is shown.

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Pictured is the grand, fully equipped kitchen at the new Thurmont Community Ambulance Event Complex.

Destined to Be Together

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Earl A. Rice, Jr. and Mary (Gene) Eugenia (Matthews) Rice were meant to be together. Some of the family members joke that their marriage was an arranged one. Earl and Gene first met in the backyard of the old Rouzer home in Thurmont, from which, the wall paper, now in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House, came.  Their mothers—Jessie (Rouzer) Matthews and Helen (Creager) Rice—grew up as next-door neighbors, and were visiting their childhood homes with their first born on the same weekend, sometime in 1924—when someone snapped the above picture. It must have been love at first sight, because they grew up separated by a mountain range and thirty-five miles. They would see each other on occasion during these kinds of weekend visits and dated during their teens and early twenties. They mostly double-dated—the only way Jessie found acceptable—and have many fond memories of those times. Earl sometimes got to borrow his mother’s Lincoln Zephyr, so they got to date in style. Mostly, he came in the Model A that he and his lifelong friend, Henry Steiger, owned together.

After their courtship, they were engaged, and Earl was off to fight in WWII, training to be a bombardier on the B-29, the most advanced warplane of its time. Gene had earlier graduated from St. Joseph’s College, with a major in home economics and a minor in physics. Her first and only teaching job was at Emmitsburg High School, teaching physics. One of the classes she taught was engine basics.

Not being able to stand the idea of being separated, Earl and Gene decided to marry in California, where Earl was training at Victorville Army Air Base. Gene quit her job and got ready to travel west. Francis Matthews brought his daughter by train on the 2,500 mile trip to bring these two together for their seventy-plus year journey. In keeping with the good customs and scarcities at the time of war, Earl shared a room with Francis the night before the wedding, which he often jokingly asks, “How many men have done that?”  They were married in San Bernardino, California, on February 24, 1945. Francis, after giving away his and Jessie’s most precious daughter, travelled alone back to Emmitsburg.

Earl and Gene lived for a time in California, then onto various assignments, including Pecos, Texas, where these East Coast kids had to contend with such things as spiders and West Texas dust storms.   Earl and his crew had to travel separately on a troop train, while the wives followed with one of his fellow officer’s mother as a chaperone, another sign of a different time. Gene made some lifelong friends, with many of the wives demonstrating the love that has endeared her to all those around her.  Only a short time after their marriage, Earl and his crew were assigned to their B-29 in the South Pacific Island of Tinian. They had to travel on a troop ship to meet up with their aircraft.  Gene headed back home.

At the war’s end, they settled outside Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, where Earl worked at his family’s goldfish farm. In 1952, he decided to take his dedicated wife and two boys, Earl A. Rice III (Gus) and Robert “Scott” Rice, to Emmitsburg to work for Gene’s father, Francis, whose business was struggling at the time. In 1954, they were blessed with a daughter, Mary Ann Rice Clever. Earl’s efforts helped to save the business, for which Francis was always grateful. They have lived in Emmitsburg for the rest of their marriage.

Their time in Emmitsburg during the 50s, 60s, and 70s were dedicated to raising their children, instilling great values in them, and to running a business. As is the case for many marriages, theirs sometimes took work. These efforts were done with their sense of humor and knowing each other to the core. As an example, one time, when the family wanted to do something that Earl wasn’t supporting, Gene said, “Wait until it’s your father’s idea.” She was right.

Their years together blessed them with three children, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Those of us who have known them are likewise truly blessed.

Earl A. Rice, Jr. and Mary (Gene) Eugenia (Matthews) Rice first met in the backyard of the old Rouzer home in Thurmont…destiny bringing them together.

Town Hall Reports January 2017

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Emmitsburg

Statue of John Armstrong to be Erected

Emmitsburg’s famous gunsmith, John Armstrong, will have a statue erected to him at the Route 15 Visitor’s Center. Armstrong was the best-known of the local gunsmiths during the early 1800s. So distinct were their rifles that they came to be known as the Emmitsburg School of Gunsmiths.

Armstrong is most famous for the variation of the Kentucky long rifle. His rifles are highly sought-after collector’s items today. One collector wrote, “His pieces often draw comparisons to Swiss watches and Rolls Royce automobiles—classics that defy time.”

Gary Casteel, the sculptor who repaired the Doughboy statue when it was damaged, has been talking with town staff and Mayor Don Briggs about creating the sculpture. The catch has been trying to find an appropriate location for the statue to be displayed. The visitor’s center was finally selected. Briggs explained that it is considered part of Emmitsburg, since it is on the town’s water and sewer systems.

Town Planner Sue Cipperly sees this as a possible start to creating more heritage tourism sites in town. “We have these craftsmen here in town, and they should really be memorialized,” she said.

The statue could be dedicated as early as this spring.

In the Town Hall Notes item titled “Statue of John Armstrong will be erected” in the February issue of The Catoctin Banner. A number of possible future projects were discussed at the town meeting, and some of them got mixed up in the article. A statue of John Armstrong within the town is a future possibility, but is not imminent. The Route 15 Visitor’s Center was being considered for two things: a traveling display of Armstrong rifles and studio space for Casteel to work on a Civil War monument. Since the article was published, the state has decided to not allow these two things to happen in the visitor’s center. Sorry for the confusion.

James Rada, Jr.

Town Planning to Get Algae-Destroying System

The Town of Emmitsburg is considering installing a new system that uses cutting-edge technology to destroy algae in the water of Rainbow Lake. Bill Kramer, with Kershner Environmental Technologies, spoke to the commissioners about LG Sonic. The company’s algae-control technology actually destroys algae in the water. The company is located in the Netherlands and has been around since 1999. Although the technology is used in roughly 10,000 places around the world, in the United States, it has only been installed in New Jersey.

The technology uses ultrasound waves to destroy algae. It modulates the ultrasound frequency to target different types of algae to prevent them from rising to the surface to reach sunlight. Without sunlight, the algae die and sink to the bottom. Most of the systems use solar panels to power the technology, so there is little energy consumption.

“Getting algae out of the drinking water has a lot of positive benefits,” Kramer said.

The cost of the system for Rainbow Lake is $160,000 with about $15,000 annual in maintenance costs. It is projected to pay for itself in under two years. Savings would be seen in lower operating costs and more efficient water filtration.

Kramer said that the company and town staff would come up with benchmarks to determine the system’s success over a year. If the system didn’t meet those benchmarks, a portion of the funds would be refunded and the system would be removed.

The commissioners will continue discussing whether or not to move forward with this system during their February meeting.

 

Lions Collecting Winter Clothing

The Emmitsburg Mayor and Commissioners agreed to allow the Emmitsburg Lions Club to set up a collection box between the town gym and Emmitsburg Library. The Lions will be collecting scarves, hats, gloves, and coats, which will be donated to area schools to be given to students who need them. This project is part of the Emmitsburg Lions Club “Make A Difference Month.”

 

Thurmont

Town Makes Donation to Thurmont Food Bank

The Town of Thurmont donated $2,750 to the Thurmont Food Bank in December. This is in addition to the food donations raised at the annual Halloween in the Park event.

Pastor Sally Joyner Giffin told the commissioners that the food bank provides food to an average of 300 families monthly. In November, it provided food to around 400 families.

 

Thurmont’s Heroin Problem

Thurmont Police Chief Greg Eyler recently told the Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners that twenty-five people overdosed on heroin in Thurmont in 2016, and of that number, three of them died. The rest were saved when Narcan was administered. Commissioner Marty Burns called the number “staggering,” and pointed out that it didn’t include residents who overdosed outside of the town boundaries.

 

Commissioners Approve Civitan Club Inclusive Playground

The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners approved the first phase of the first all-inclusive playground in Frederick County. It will replace the old playground at East End Park. The park has been in the planning and fundraising stages since July 2015. The new equipment will be paid for with a $25,000 Program Open Space grant that the town received and a $50,000 grant that the Thurmont Civitan Club obtained from Civitan International.

Chief Administrative Officer Jim Humerick said, “This will be a one-of-a-kind playground in the area. There’s nothing close by. This is going to be something that kids with all disabilities and non-disabilities can come and enjoy.”

The playground is not only designed for physically challenged children, but also children with emotional problems such as autism.

The overall cost of the playground is expected to be about $280,000 and to be completed in three phases. Playground Specialists in Thurmont is helping with the design and will be installing the new equipment.

 

Police Commission Openings Filled

The Thurmont mayor and commissioners selected from among four candidates to fill two open positions on the Thurmont Police Commission. Shawn Martiak and Greg Seymour will fill out the seven-person commission.

Community Park Winter Closing

The Thurmont mayor and commissioners voted to close Community Park during the winter. This was done to discourage vandalism, which had occurred at the back end of the park during the winter when few people use it. The front parking lot will still be open for families who want to use the playground on Frederick Road.

A few of the picnic tables will be moved closer to Frederick Road to be available for anyone who might want to use them. The commissioners also allowed town staff the leeway to open the park on warm days or to end the closing early if winter weather ends sooner than expected.

 

From the Mayor

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Thurmont

Mayor John Kinnaird

This past week, I have had the pleasure of participating in the Thurmont Middle School (TMS) Kindness Week Challenge. As students arrive for their day, I have been greeting them and wishing them a good day. I am happy to report that every one of the young people I have spoken to are excited to be at school and are, themselves, very polite and considerate of others. The goal of Kindness Week is to encourage an atmosphere of kindness and consideration among all students. It is obvious to me that these goals are being meet by all students and staff at TMS! My thanks to all of the students and staff for allowing me to play a small part in their day.

On January 21, Karen and I had the pleasure of attending the Thurmont Community Ambulance Company Awards Banquet, held in the newly completed Thurmont Ambulance Event Complex. The new building located off Lawyer’s Lane on Strafford Drive is a real gem of a facility. The main room is massive and can seat well over six hundred comfortably, with room for a dance floor. There is a large stage for presentations and concerts, as well as several drop-down video screens. The kitchen is a spacious room, with ample capacity for large banquets, weddings, or meetings. We would encourage anyone looking to rent a large venue to give the Event Complex a look! The banquet was prepared and served by members of the Rocky Ridge 4-H, and it was delicious. The Ambulance Company thanked the Scouts of Troop 270 and the Venturing Crew for installing the stone work on the exterior of the building and for planting over a hundred trees on the property. The Thurmont Ambulance ran a total of 1,258 calls in 2016; although I hope no one requires an ambulance, I can tell you from personal experience that you could not find better qualified, courteous, or professional ambulance personnel anywhere. I want to thank all the members of the Thurmont Community Ambulance Service for their hard work in getting this building built, and for their continued service to the residents of Thurmont and our neighbors in Frederick County.

Although we are still not through the worst part of winter, I want to mention a local project that will be worth visiting time and again once the weather warms up. Frederick County is currently making big improvements to the Roddy Road Park. These changes include moving the road away from Owens Creek in order to make pedestrian access to the stream much easier. There are new benches, picnic tables, walkways, dedicated parking, an infant playground, and even a new composting toilet. There are plans to develop a walking trail on the south side of Owens Creek that will wind along the embankment and up across the palisade. Of course, I can’t mention the park without saying something about the Roddy Road Covered Bridge. As everyone knows, the bridge was damaged twice in the last year and suffered major damages during the last incident. I am happy to say that Frederick County has stepped up and is repairing the bridge to a like-new condition. Many of the main frame timbers were damaged and have been replaced with identical woodwork. There are dozens of original supports being incorporated in the sides in the rebuilt bridge, and new steel beams will carry the weight of traffic under the wooden deck. The final touch will be a new metal roof and board siding. As I said, the County has stepped up on this project and it is obvious that they are intent on keeping the beloved Roddy Road Bridge in service. This landmark is a destination for many tourists and local residents, and the improvements will be a welcome addition. I want to also thank Fitzgerald Heavy Timber Construction for the fine craftsmanship they are investing in the rebuilding of the bridge.

As we get into February, I want to remind everyone that we will probably be seeing snow sometime this month and next. The Thurmont Police Department recently started a project called the Snow Team. Code Enforcement Officer Christy Wood has developed this project as a way to assist elderly and disabled residents with the removal of snow and ice from their sidewalks. The Snow Team is looking for teenage and adult volunteers to sign up to help clear snow for residents that are unable to do so themselves. Student volunteers can use the volunteer time as part of their community service requirements. Please stop by the Town Office or the Police Department to find out how you can help in this effort.

As always, I hope everyone has a safe and healthy month!

 

Emmitsburg

 Mayor Don Briggs

With the new year came the 133rd Vigilant Hose Company Banquet, an annual event Lib and I are always honored to attend. Over the course of the evening, I could not help but notice the parallel state of readiness and preparedness of the volunteer fire company and the teams that would compete in the upcoming College National Football Championship game. Both Clemson and Alabama and our fireman go through hours upon hours of rigorous training in preparation for yet unknown events and outcomes. Framing the comparison is not difficult. To no surprise, before a big football game, there is an elevated pitch in the locker room. Monday night players will go through a predictable series of steps in preparing for the game. Go to the stadium, tape up, suit up, loosen up, get a pre-game talk, and then go out on the field and play in the game. Looking across the Mother Seton auditorium, I knew that in a blink of an eye, the room could be emptied if a call came in and fire personnel were needed. Every firefighter and company support member would be gone. Gone to the fire house to suit up, but, unlike football, there would be no tape ups, loosening up or pre-game talk before going on to their “field”—on a call with no level field or fixed boundaries. A “field” of unknowns. If asked what it is like to be a volunteer fireman, knowing every day and every night that a call could come in, is only met with a shrug of the shoulders and a smile. Amazing people.

So what is the circle of care in Emmitsburg? One example is the first level of care: The volunteer Vigilant Hose Company responded to a call at a residence on East Main Street, where a fire would soon be extinguished, with limited damage and no personal injuries; but as a result, the family is now displaced. Hearing this, Sharon Hane and another concerned resident contacted Pastor John Greenstone, who manages the Emmitsburg Council of Churches fire fund, and told him of the family’s situation. The good Pastor concurred with the need and wrote a check. To accommodate the father’s schedule, one evening before Christmas, I gave him the check at the Community Center, where he was waiting to pick up his child from the town-sponsored after-school program. Volunteer Fire Company to concerned citizens to charitable resources and to town-sponsored childcare program is one way of how the circle of care works.

More “Green.” During the current drought conditions, predictably, the water levels at Rainbow Lake dropped. Unpredictably, though, was a natural consequence of algae levels that rose quickly, in part with more exposure to sunlight. Currently, the increased algae level necessitates more backwashing, which is expensive and exacerbates the water shortage by using and wasting water in the process. The town administration has proposed to the town council installing a solar powered “Advanced Ultrasonic Algae Control System.”

Soon there could be charging infrastructure for electric vehicles coming to Emmitsburg. From Shannon Moore, director of the Office of Sustainability: “As part of a settlement with the federal government, Volkswagen (VW) committed $2 billion over ten years to help advance the Electric Vehicle/Plug-In Electric Vehicle infrastructure in the United States. As a part of this settlement, VW is soliciting applications, due by January 16, 2017, from those interested in helping advance said infrastructure.  The COG (Washington Council of Governments) team is seeking project partners to receive the financial assistance to install chargers at host sites, either public or private. The team also is seeking partners to assist with education and outreach as well as vocational training.” To keep things moving, the town has expressed an interest in becoming a partner and possibly installing two charger stations. More to come on this.

 

Resolution Contest

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Catoctin Banner Resolution 2017 Spotlight #1

Being a new contest, identifying our resolution contestants has been an adventure. We’re introducing our first contestant in this issue, and we will introduce another in our next issue. Then, we’ll give progress reports through the year to measure progress and capture their story.

Rachel Mohler is a thirty-nine-year-old artist and mother of three small children (four-and-a-half years, three years, and seven months). She moved to Sabillasville last November and has resolved to paint one tiny painting a day that is inspired by the view out the window of her new home. Each painting is created on a 2 1/2” x 3 1/2” piece of watercolor paper.

She has defined her objectives as: (1) to try and stay creative in the wake of small children, sleep deprivation, and all the chaos that comes with being a mom, wife, and business owner (she and her husband own a land surveying business); (2) to remind her to pause each day and take in the wonder that is nature and to be grateful for such a lovely place to live; (3) to watch the colors of the seasons change and to learn nature’s palette; and (4) to be open to the lessons this resolution has to teach and to have a record to share with her children when they get older.

Rachel has already begun her daily paintings as of January 1 (see samples below) and is looking forward to sharing her progress with the readers of The Catoctin Banner.

On Fleek Brow Boutique to Open in Thurmont

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Kerrin Marchese

Tamara Manahan—devoted wife, homeschool teacher, and mother of five—shares how she plans to use an up-and-coming cosmetic technique to make a difference.

It was in the spring of 2016 when Tamara Manahan first heard about microblading, a form of tattooing that deposits pigment under the skin to mimic the stroke of eyebrow hairs. Unlike traditional tattooing, this is done using a handheld tool, which helps make eyebrows appear fuller and natural looking. When first introduced to microblading by a friend, Tamara was intrigued but didn’t give much thought to the technique otherwise.

Later that summer, Tamara found out that she would become a life-saving bone marrow donor for her father, who had been battling Lymphoma. In preparation for her surgery, Tamara spent time in the waiting rooms of The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Building at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. It was here where she developed an awareness of how many people are affected by cancer and disease, and the number of people that experience hair loss due to the effects of chemotherapy. And while some patients do experience hair growth during recovery, some, unfortunately, do not. Coincidentally, earlier that month, the same friend had reached out to Tamara about a microblading workshop in Washington, D.C.—the first of its kind, locally. Though she initially did not plan to attend, Tamara realized she had an opportunity to make a difference. Driven by her desire to give back, she attended the training held by renowned European master artist, Dovile Zilinskaite, of Branko Babic’s PhiBrows Academy—the most prestigious microblading academy in the world.

“Helping others is deeply rooted in my heart,” expressed Tamara, “which is what has truly made the process worthwhile.” Currently, Tamara is completing the final level of her microblading certification, which is timed with the opening of her studio. On Fleek Brow Boutique is located at 12 N. Center Street in Thurmont, where Diane “Dee” Miller had her shop (Dee’s Hair Stylists) for forty years. A beloved member of the community, Dee passed away in September 2016 after battling ALS. As a longtime neighbor and family friend, Tamara plans to donate ten percent of her initial proceeds to the ALS Association DC/MD/VA Chapter and Hospice of Frederick County in honor of Dee.

With this new venture, Tamara hopes to give back on a larger scale. “I believe that beauty is so much more than what we see when we look in the mirror. True beauty is reflected in the art of giving. I’m thrilled not only to be able to help people look and feel beautiful, but to give back with the hope of making a small difference in a world full of need.”

On Fleek Brow Boutique is set to open February 1, 2017, for scheduled consultations, with procedures beginning in March. For more information, please visit www.OnFleekBrowBoutique.com.

Tamara Manahan is shown in her studio, using microblading technique on a client.

Frederick County Native Helps Create Clean-Burning Wood Stove

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James Rada

Imagine having a wood stove where all you needed to do was add wood and throw in a match? The stove would then take things from there, getting the fire going and keeping the room where the stove is located at just the right temperature, as well as burning the wood so efficiently that there is only a tiny amount of ash left.

“We call our stove the Catalyst,” said Taylor Myers, a Catoctin High graduate and chief technical officer for MF Fire. “It’s the first automated wood stove. It uses a smart controller and automatically adjusts to optimize efficiency and cleanliness, and it’s easy to use.”

Myers and his business partner, Ryan Fisher, developed the idea for the Catalyst while they were attending University of Maryland College Park in the fall of 2012. Myers was studying fire protection engineering and decided to compete in the Alliance for Green Heat’s Wood Stove Decathlon that was held in Washington D. C. He and his partner put together a prototype of the Catalyst they called the Mulciber. They were the only student team competing in the Wood Stove Decathlon in 2013.

“We won the low-emission prize, and then the next year we won the grand prize,” said Myers.

After that success, Myers and Fisher knew they were onto something and needed to bring the stove to market. They teamed up with Paul LaPorte to develop a commercial model of the stove and create MF Fire.

The Catalyst can heat 2,000 square feet using standard cord wood, and it is a free-standing stove that can replace any existing stove. Future improvements might include a fireplace insert as well.

“New regulations are going to make 85 percent of the wood stoves on the market now illegal to sell after January 2020, but we’re already compliant with those new regulations,” stated Myers.

Testing showed that the Catalyst has only 0.2 gm per hour of particulate emissions, which is twenty times lower than the new EPA rules require. The Catalyst has a 99.5 percent combustion efficiency, which means that nearly all of the wood is consumed. This creates less smoke.

“We generate less than half the smoke of one cigarette,” explained Myers.

It also releases 30 percent less carbon dioxide than a traditional wood stove.

The Catalyst can be controlled from a computer or smartphone. You can remotely start your stove and have a warm house to come into after being outside.

“You load the wood in the stove, throw in a match, set the room temperature on your smartphone, and the stove takes care of the rest,” said Myers.

Although the company’s offices are in Baltimore, the stoves are manufactured in Smithsburg.

The U.S. Census estimates that 2.5 million homes heat with wood stoves, and the Catalyst may make the option attractive to even more households.

The first shipment of the Catalyst stoves is preparing to ship to customers who paid just under $5,000 for them.

To learn more about this new way to heat your home, visit the website at mffire.com.

Pictured from left to right are Ryan Fisher, Paul LaPorte,  and Taylor Myers

Eyler Stables Hosts 30th Anniversary of New Year’s Day Horse Sale

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January 1, 2017, marked the 30th anniversary of the New Year’s Day Horse Sale at Eyler Stables in Thurmont. During this auction, anything to do with horses is auctioned or consigned, all day long. You can bid on or purchase new and used saddles, bridles, horses, hay, trailers, and just about anything you would need to care for a horse, to ride a horse, or to look good on a horse.

Since 1933, horse auctions have been held on the property known as Eyler Stables on Emmitsburg Road in Thurmont. Today, Niki Eyler, great-granddaughter of the stables’ founders, continues to manage the facility, which includes a weekly flea market and subcontracted horse and tack auctions.

Niki has managed the indoor and outdoor flea market every weekend—Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays—since she started that business as an alternative use on the property in October of 2014.

The New Year’s Day Horse Sale of 2017, specifically, enjoyed its 30th birthday on a mild and sunny day. While livestock trailers were auctioned in one field close to the stable, food vendors tempted the crowd with the aroma of grilled beef; tack was sold by vendors on the grounds; the indoor auction area was filled with people, tack, and saddles; and the horses were stabled or exercised in the ring out back to prepare for auction.

Niki could be found with her mother, Jody Eyler, at the sale counter in the indoor flea market. Niki manages the property in honor of her Eyler ancestors. Her dad, Albert Eyler, started the annual New Year’s Day Horse Auction at the stables and hosted it until his passing in 1999. Niki took over the event and hosted it until 2010. She now leases the event to auctioneer, Tim Smith, and Jim Roberts of RSD Livestock. While the annual New Year’s Day Horse Sale was the idea of her father, Niki’s paternal grandparents, Joe and Ruth Eyler, and great-grandfather, Harry Eyler, ran Eyler Stables with regularly scheduled horse auctions starting in 1933.

People from all over the mid-Atlantic, and beyond, attend the New Year’s Day Sale every year. It’s well known in the equestrian circles and, according to comments online, seems to offer a step up in the quality of the horse sold at auction in general.

“Now, there are other New Year’s Day or New Year’s Eve horse auctions, but, this is the oldest one. When my dad started it, nobody else was doing it.” Niki explained. “These days, when horses are no longer necessary in our lives, there is still a market for the horse. They are purchased for recreational riding, showing, racing, and breeding purposes.”

For more information about Eyler Stables Flea Market, take a look on Facebook, call 301-471-5158, or stop by 141 Emmitsburg Road in Thurmont. For more information about Eyler Stables Horse Auctions, visit RSD Horse Auctions on Facebook or rsdhorseauctions.com.

This year’s Eyler Stables Horse Sale indoor auction is pictured. During each auction, tack and equipment is sold earlier in the day, then the horses are walked through the auction area to attract the highest bid.

Emmitsburg Firefighters Support Presidential Inauguration in D.C.

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Local Emmitsburg Vigilant Hose Company (VHC) First Responders played important roles on Friday, January 20, 2017, in Washington, D.C., during the Presidential Inauguration. Neither political nor partisan in nature, their public safety duties included filling in at a District of Columbia fire station, due to the fact that the City’s normal call volume can increase three-fold on this particular day every four years, plus many D.C. emergency services units are committed to responsibilities directly associated with the day’s public events (from which they cannot be easily released). Emmitsburg personnel, along with other emergency personnel from Frederick County’s emergency services, were approved for their unique duty assignments (after having been cleared to serve by the U.S. Secret Service, the DCFD, and our own Frederick County Government / Department of Fire and Rescue Services).

Frederick County provided a total of four ambulances, two engines, two ATV’s, and a Battalion Chief. VHC members staffed Emmitsburg’s Engine 63 and were assigned to D.C. Fire and EMS Station 20, located in the Tenleytown section of the City (on Wisconsin Avenue, just south of Tenley Circle in upper northwest), plus special assignments like staffing an EMS ATV (all-terrain vehicle) near the Washington Monument and driving an ambulance stationed along the parade route.

VHC Chief Chad Umbel, who for weeks helped plan the support effort, said, “It was a great honor for our small department to be selected, and our people were treated very well,” adding that, “their day started before 4:00 a.m., not getting back home until 9:00 p.m., followed by cleanup of the unit. It was something our personnel are certain to always remember.”
Leading the crews were VHC Lieutenants Alex McKenna and Doug Yingling, along with President and former Chief Frank Davis, who drove the Engine. In addition to Davis, McKenna, and Yingling, staffing Engine 63 and accomplishing related duties in the Nation’s Capital were VHC Firefighters Matt Boyd, Vance Click, Greg Sterner, Shawn Wetzel, and Dave Zentz.
Adequate coverage here on the home front was planned for in advance, knowing that a number of VHC’s operational response personnel were helping to assure an orderly transition of American power—a hallmark of the nation’s democracy.

VHC Engine 63 became ‘Engine 906’ for the day, their assigned designation under the Washington Council of Governments’ regional emergency services plan (Frederick County units use the ‘900’ series while each county in the metro area has its own unique designation to avoid confusion in the event of a major regional disaster.


Pictured left to right are Matt Boyd, Shawn Wetzel, Greg Sterner, Dave Zentz, and Alex McKenna.

Thurmont Community Ambulance Banquet Held

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Deb Spalding

Members of Company 30, also known as the Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, Inc., held their annual awards banquet on January 21, 2017. This banquet was the first event held in their new event facility on Lawyer’s Lane in Thurmont.

Company President Lowman Keeney served as the master of ceremonies during the banquet. The banquet meal was catered by approximately fifty members of the Rocky Ridge 4-H Club and their parents.

Lowman Keeney expressed appreciation to all involved with the progress made by the company throughout 2016, including the demand of the construction of the new facility, and, in spite of that demand, members staying up-to-date on training and conducting the primary day-to-day operations of the busy company. (See article on page 1 about the new event facility for more information about the building.) The building took two and a half tough years to build. “It was a tremendous undertaking. Thank you to all the members,” said Keeney.

Keeney also acknowledged Venturing Crew 270 for completing a substantial stonework project in December 2016 that took 25 days and 739 volunteer hours. The stonework project was spear-headed by Keegan Coolidge. Another project by Venturing Crew 270 was led by its president, Devon Stafford, during which 112 trees were planted on the property.

Company 30’s secretary, Joyce Stitely, worked diligently over the course of a full year, from February 2016 to January 2017, to make 300 hand-made baskets to commemorate the opening of the new Thurmont Ambulance Company Event Complex. The sight of the baskets lined up for distribution at the banquet was worthy of appreciation and awe. Each attendee was able to exit the event with one in hand, as a commemorative gift.

Lowman introduced the recipient of the President’s Award, James Wolf, stating, “He’ll do anything in the world for you.”

Chief Dennis “DJ” Ott reviewed that Company 30 responded to 1,258 calls for the year 2016. “We’re busy. We run a lot of calls.” He reviewed that, in addition, members participate in, and conduct, a lot of training. They had just sent two ambulances to Washington D.C., and had helped prior to that with the Marine Corp Marathon. He reviewed that an ambulance was purchased by Company 30 in 2016. It cost $271,000, empty, before adding top-of-the-line equipment. He said, “We had a good year, but we can absolutely do better.” He thanked the Town of Thurmont employees and police for their support.

Chief Ott acknowledged the Top Five Responders: Jen Frushour (416), Rose Latini (188), Brooke Kennedy (184), Lisa Eichelberger (95), and Jared Snyder (93). He awarded individuals for operational support: Lowman Keeney, Denny Ott, Glenn Muth, Bob Lookingbill, and Walt Kelch were acknowledged. He also cited Joyce Stitely and Shirley Stackhouse for their dedication to the company.

Chief Ott presented the Chief’s Award to Judy White. About her, he said, “Without this person, we wouldn’t be sitting in this building. She stops what she’s doing at any time to help.”

Incoming officers were sworn in by the president of the Maryland State Firemen’s Association, Mike Davis. He said, “The camaraderie found in this community shows what it used to be about for other communities (that have since grown large and lost the small-town closeness). We’ve wained from that, especially when we have to have 350 hours to be an EMT.” He assured, “I am behind you.” 2017 Company officers include: President Lowman Keeney, Vice-President Bob Lookingbill; Secretary Joyce Stitely; Assistant Secretary Shirley Stackhouse; Treasurer Judy White; Assistant Treasurer Dennis Ott, Sr.; and Board of Directors, Glenn Muth, Jim Wolf, Tim Wiltrout, and Dave Place. Operational Officers include: Chief D.J. Ott; Assistant Chief Rose Latini; Lieutenants, Brooke Kennedy and Renea Coolidge; and Sergeant Jen Frushour.

Life memberships were awarded to Kevin Albaugh, Sue Moss, Jason West, Sarah Pigula, Dan Harbaugh, and Eugene “Sonny” Grimes (recently deceased).

The invocation and memorial for active member, Franklin Lee Shriner, who passed recently, was given by Pastor Ben Hays of Life and Liberty Baptist Church in Walkersville.

Honored guests included Thurmont Mayor John Kinnaird and his wife, Karen; Thurmont CAO Jim Humerick and his wife, Lisa; Thurmont Commissioner Wes Hamrick and his wife, Kim; Thurmont Public Works Butch West; Thurmont Chief of Police, Greg Eyler and his wife, Brenda; John and Maggie Doll of Gateway Farm Candyland and Liquors; Frannie Black of Catoctin Mountain Orchard; Frederick County Councilman Bud Otis and his wife, Rose; Frederick County Sheriff Tim Clarke and his wife, Becky, and Jason West; Medic 30’s Walt Kelch and Steve Adams; Frederick County Fire and Rescue’s Michael Davis and his wife, Ann; Mount Carmel Church’s John and Kathy Dowling; Guardian Hose Company’s Vice President Terry Frushour, Treasurer Bev Frushour, and Doc Simmers and his wife, Pat; Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company’s Dennis and Paulette Mathias, and Alan and Ethel Brauer; Wolfsville Fire Company’s Steve Nalborczyk and Tammy; and Vigilant Hose Company’s Carl White and Karyn Myers. The Middletown Fire Company was acknowledged as the fill-in crew during the banquet.

Thank you to local businesses for their support of Company 30 and donation of door prizes: Bollinger’s Restaurant, Hobb’s Hardware, Cousins ACE Hardware, Mountain Gate Restaurant, Weis, Jen’s Cutting Edge, Food Lion, At Home Primitives, No. 1 Nails, Direct To You Gas Station, Wendy’s, Gateway Candyland, Rocky’s Pizza, and Fratelli’s Pizza.

Company Officers are shown (top to bottom): (left) Vice-President Bob Lookingbill; Secretary Joyce Stitely; Assistant Secretary Shirley Stackhouse; Treasurer Judy White; Assistant Treasurer Dennis Ott, Sr.; (center) President Lowman Keeney; Board of Directors, Jim Wolf, Glenn Muth, Tim Wiltrout, and Dave Place; (right) Operational Officers: Chief D.J. Ott; Assistant Chief Rose Latini; Lieutenants, Brooke Kennedy and Renee Coolidge; and Sergeant Jen Frushour.

Top Five Responders are pictured top to bottom: Jen Frushour (416 incidents), Rose Latini (188 incidents), Brooke Kennedy (184 incidents), Lisa Eichelberger (95 incidents), and Jared Snyder (93 incidents).

Company 30’s Secretary, Joyce Stitely, made 300 baskets by hand to commemorate the opening of the Thurmont Ambulance Company’s Event Facility. A basket was given to each banquet attendee as a gift.

Vigilant Hose Company Holds Its Annual Banquet

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Grace Eyler

On January 7, 2017, Mother Seton School’s gym in Emmitsburg was the setting for Vigilant Hose Company’s 133rd annual banquet. While members and family members found their seating, GT’s Catering prepared a fresh meal to serve the crowd.

The invocation was given by Fr. Kreig from St. Joeseph’s Parish in Emmitsburg. Past president, Tim Clarke welcomed other fire company representatives, their neighbors from the Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company, County Executive Jan Gardner, County Councilmen, Kirby DeLauter and Bud Otis, and other special guests. The three county representatives joined together to give their thanks to Vigilant. Emmitsburg Mayor Don Briggs stood up to praise Vigilant for their service in Emmitsburg. Mayor Briggs also recognized other members of the company, commissioners, recently-retired town manager, Dave Haller, and other Emmitsburg Town staff who attended the banquet.

Chip Jewell, Director of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services, led the formal installation of Company 6’s 2017 officers. This year, Vigilant’s officers consisted of President, Frank Davis; Vice President, Dave Wilt; Treasurer, Steven Hollinger; Assistant Treasurer, William Boyd, Jr.; Secretary, Steven Valentine; Assistant Secretary, Thomas Vaughn; Board of Directors, Hugh Boyle, Elyssa Cool, Randy Myers, Douglas Orner, David Stonesifer and Carl White. Operational Officers include Chief, Chad Umbel; Deputy Chief, James Click; Assistant Chief, Chris Stahley; Captain, Joshua Brotherton; Lieutenants, Alex McKinna, Derek Rosensteel and Douglas Yingling. Fire Police include Captain Lynn Orndorff; 1st Lieutenant, Stephen Orndorff; and 2nd Lieutenant, Samuel Cool. Auxiliary Officers for 2017 include President, Tina Ryder; Vice President, Sharel Boyle; Secretary, Joyce Glass; Financial Secretary, Mandy Ryder; and Historians, Jennifer Boyd and Katie Davis.

Following the installation of new officers, a moment of silence was taken to remember the ones lost over the year during their Memoriam. In 2016, Vigilant lost five valued members including Charles ‘Shorty” Hartigan, Sterling Orndorff, Larry “ReRun” Ridenour, Carroll “Gene” Newcomer, and William “Billy” Wilson.  Tim Clarke fondly recalled special memories of each individual while recognizing the family members in attendance.

After recognizing those who passed, the company presented the video “The Fallen and the Brave,” a video developed by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and produced by Dave Carroll in Emmitsburg. Many of Vigilant’s volunteers were a part of the production.

Members applauded the moving presentation, Tim Clarke lightened the mood with some humor about the Christmas season. He called upon President Davis to recognize the Auxiliary for all that they do for Company 6. “Without them, we wouldn’t be what we are. That is in every way. They are there during major fires, fundraising, and most importantly their financial support that is a major part of our budget… we don’t say thank you enough,” said President Davis. Auxiliary President, Tina Ryder, stood to recognize the accomplishments of her team and present Vigilant with a check for $45,000.

In 2016, Vigilant tended to 461 fire calls in Emmitsburg and the surrounding areas, with an average of eleven volunteers attending each call. The average time of response from the time of dispatch to being on the scene was a mere six minutes and fifty-eight seconds. The total fire loss this year was $93,500. The busiest days were tied between Wednesdays and Saturdays with 72 calls on each day and Monday earning third busiest with a total of 71 during 2016. Company 6 was busy with fundraisers, including the new “Six of Hearts Drawing,” an idea brainstormed by President Davis, being very successful so far.

Service awards were presented to volunteers who have consistently served the company — with the oldest members serving the Company for 75 years. Five-year awards were presented to Eugene Fauble, Patrick Reaver, Derek Rosensteel, Greg Sterner III, Shawn Wetzel and Douglas Yingling. Other awards for service included, Charles Stuart (10 Years), Christopher Ryder (15 Years). and Paul Kreitz (20 Years). Frank Rauschenburg celebrated 25 years, receiving “Life Membership.” Other Life Members included John Glass (30 Years); Steve Hollinger and Hugh Boyle (35 Years); Herb Click, Jr. (40 Years); Larry Glass (45 Years); Michael Orndorff and Roland Sanders (50 Years); Patrick Boyle (65 Years); John Hollinger (70 Years); and Tom Hoke, who was honored with 75 years of service.

The President’s LOSAP awards were presented to Dave Wilt (67 Points), Elyssa Cool (73 Points), Steve Hollinger (79 Points), Brandon Burris (82 Points), Thomas Vaughn (87 Points) Jim Click (88 Points), Matt Boyd (98 Points), Bill Boyd (119 Points), and Doug Yingling (124 Points). Joshua Brotherton received top recognition with a total of 148 points accumulated through the year. Randy Myers received the “President’s Award” from Frank Davis for his time given to the company during 2016.

Chief Umbel recognized Top Ten Responders: Tom Ward (121 calls), Chuck Stuart (123 calls), Brandon Burris (125 calls), Alex McKenna (129 calls) Hugh Boyle (131 calls), Derek Rosensteel (145 calls), Dave Zentz (178 calls), Matt Boyd (182 calls), Frank Davis (209 calls), and Top Responder, Cliff Shriner (224 calls).

Chief Umbel also recognized Vigilant’s top Fire Police Responders including Tom Vaughn (43 calls), Sam Cool (60 calls), and Steve Orndorff (79 calls).

The Outstanding Service Award was presented to former Emmitsburg Town Manager, Dave Haller. Tim Clarke explained, “This individual went above and beyond to make sure that the fire company had the town’s backing and shared the town’s resources to the fullest,” he explained that without Haller’s assistance and expertise during his seventeen years of tenure with the town, projects like the demolition and rebuilding of the company’s administrative and volunteer facilities, “…would have been delayed and gone over budget.”

Honorary memberships were presented to Jim Hobbs, Jr., Dave Hobbs, Andy Hobbs, and Steve Hobbs for the continued support they’ve provided to Vigilant not only financially, but with needed materials including the refrigerated truck used each year for Spring Fling.

The Training Award was presented to Jeffery Redding who retained 140 hours throughout the past year.

One of the most honorary awards given at the annual banquet is the “Hall of Fame Award.” Former President Clarke said, “Every year, a member is recognized for their lasting contributions to our fire department, community and region.” The nominees are voted on by the other Hall of Fame members who have already been inducted in previous years. This year’s recipient was Carl White who has been a member since September 14, 1982. He has served many roles, working both in operations and administrative. To this day, Carl is still an active responder and EMT, and a certified CPR instructor who trains members of the company and members of the community.

Before members enjoyed entertainment from the band, First Class, the evening closed with Tim Clarke commenting on proposed considerations by Frederick County Officials regarding a Fire Tax, “I can’t stress this strongly enough. Implementing a fire tax will seriously curtail our fundraising events. History has shown no matter how often we educate our citizens, that a Fire tax is really an EMS tax.” He explained that people believe that since they are already paying a fire tax, they deem it unnecessary to make an additional contribution to the fire company when there are other non-profit organizations who are competing for the same dollar. “I firmly believe and support the current project initiated by Chief Owens to move our fire and rescue fleet into a program that charges our company monthly or yearly lease fees and incorporates a replacement formula that helps the entire county fleet remain functional.”

Frank Davis inducted Carl White into Vigilant’s “Hall of Fame” on January 7, 2017.

Tina Ryder, Auxiliary president presented Frank Davis with a check for $45,000 from the year of fundraising, during the Vigilant Hose Company’s Banquet.

AMVETS Post 7 Shares Holiday Joy With Others

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Jehu B. Shown

Members of the AMVETS Post 7 in Thurmont, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of AMVETS, and the AMVETS Riders offered their service to others during the holiday season.

Members provided camaraderie to senior residents at Homewood at Crumland Farms in Frederick and at St. Joseph’s Ministries in Emmitsburg.

Residents at North Point Homeless Veterans Program in Hagerstown were treated to holiday cookies, and members visited with patients at the Martinsburg Veterans Hospital Center and distributed “We Care” kits, Beanie Babies, and Bobble Heads.

A Giving Tree to help less fortunate families, a Toy Drive to benefit pediatric patients at Frederick Memorial Hospital, and Care packages for active military personnel helped the jolly man in red to provide a memorable holiday to others.

A Children’s Christmas Party was held for the children and grandchildren of members, as well as for children of local military units. The children were delighted when Santa Claus appeared to hear each child’s wish list. The children received treats as well as small gifts during the party.

Contributions were also made to the Wreaths Across America program to help remember and honor deceased Veterans during the holiday season.

More than $6,690 was donated to include the activities above, as well as to support homeless Veterans, children’s hospitals, a local food bank, and families in need.

Susan Shown, Pat Superczynski, Donnie McKinnon, Mary Forrest, Jehu Shown, Mary McKinnon, James Payne, and Richard Fleagle are shown at Homeland at Crumland Farms.

North Point Homeless Veterans Program: Sandi Reed-Burns presents holiday cookies to Program Supervisor Jennifer Drake for program clients.

Art in Motion!ESP Showcase Featuring The Thurmont Spirit Show Choir and Special Guest Maggie Kudirka “The Bald Ballerina”

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Experience Art in Motion! Join in for the ESP Performing Company Showcase Fundrasier on Saturday, February 25, 2017, at 7:00 p.m. in the Catoctin High School auditorium. This is your opportunity to experience the award-winning ESP Performing Company live onstage in your hometown community. ESP is thrilled this year to share the stage with Thurmont Spirit Show Choir and “The Bald Ballerina.”

Maggie Kudirka, “The Bald Ballerina,” has been dancing since she was four years old. In 2014, while dancing with The Joffrey Ballet Concert Group, Maggie was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Maggie shares her journey and speaks to groups around the country to help bring awareness about metastatic breast cancer. Maggie also teaches master ballet classes and continues to dance while fighting this terminal disease.  You can follow Maggie on her Bald Ballerina Facebook page.

The Thurmont Spirit Show Choir (TSSC) is a performing arts group under the direction of Berna LaForce. All of the TSSC members attend Thurmont Middle School.  They perform at school functions and compete both locally and regionally. Last year, they brought home many first-place awards. This year, the group will be competing in Martinsburg, West Virginia; Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Myrtle Beach, South Caronlina. If you have not seen them perform, you are in for a treat!

The choreography and dances presented by ESP in the showcase have already won numerous awards this season. They are excited to present these performances to their community, as well as continuing to travel the east coast this competition season.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Concessions will be available, as well as 50/50 drawings and gift basket raffles. Tickets are available for purchase in advance. Student tickets are $5.00 and adults are $10.00. Tickets may be purchased by contacting ESP Dance at 301-271-7458, by visiting the studio at 15 Water Street, or by contacting any ESP Company dancer or TSSC member. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the door: $6.00 for students and $12.00 for adults. Please join them on February 25 at Catoctin High School, and help keep art alive in Thurmont!

Also keep in mind that registration is still open for spring 2017 classes at the studio, culminating with their annual recital at the Weinberg Center on Saturday June 17, 2017. All levels of classes are available.  ESP specializes in all types of dance, including tap, ballet, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, acro, and pointe. Participating in dance class is a great way to build confidence, strength, and to have tons of fun!

Contact the studio office at 301-271-7458 or espdance.com for further information. Check them out on Facebook at ESP Dance and ESP Performing Company, and view their advertisement on page 31.

ESP Performing Company (from left, front to back): Annaliese Doolitttle, Tierney Burns, Adeline Ridenour, Georgia Wiles, Maria Fry, Evie Price, Abigail Shriner, Rose Weedy, Claire Daly, Olivia Gamer, Kristen Felichko, Olivia Ecker, Kimberly Stanley, Jaiden Pastick, Mackenzie Garrett, Julie Beech, Jack Estep, Robin Tucker, Nikita Burris, Sophia Daly, Lyla Zelenka, Catherine Estelle, Ashlyn Summerall, Victoria Stanley, Emily Mitchener, Lucy Estep, and Cheyenne Favorite.

Maggie Kudirka “Bald Ballerina.”

Catoctin High School Junior Selected as Frederick Woman’s Civic Club’s Mardi Gras Queen

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The Frederick Woman’s Civic Club, Inc. 56th Annual Mardi Gras Musical Madness 2017 semi-formal gala will be held Saturday, March 11, 2017, at the Francis Scott Key Holiday Inn, located at 5400 Holiday Drive in Frederick. Proceeds will benefit the James M. Stockman Cancer Institute, scholarships, non-profits and historic preservation. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., with a chance to bid on a variety of exciting and high-end Silent Auction offerings; a presentation of the Royal Court of the three Kings of Mardi Gras, the Queen and her Princesses at 7:00 p.m.; a delicious food-tasting, from 8:00-9:30 p.m.; and music and dancing, from 8:00-11:00 p.m. Costumes are optional but encouraged.

The Mardi Gras gala festivities began on January 6, 2017, with Twelfth Night – Kings of Mardi Gras at the Steiner House in Frederick. The three Kings presented were: Dr. Mark Soberman, King Proteus; James Bongard filled in for his grandfather, John Bongard, Rex-King of Mardi Gras; and Justin Saltzman, King Comus. The Twelfth Night event was also attended by past Kings of Mardi Gras, Frederick Woman’s Civic Club, Inc. members, and guests.

The Princess Tea was held on Sunday, January 22, 2017. The Mardi Gras Queen, Samantha Smith, a junior at Catoctin High School and the daughter of Terri Bougher and the late Samuel Smith, was selected through a charm ceremony at the tea. A wrapped box, containing a charm provided by Colonial Jewelers, was selected by each of the fifteen princesses. The princess with the crown in her box is Queen of Mardi Gras. She will receive a $1,000 scholarship provided by Frederick County Bank of Frederick.

Frederick’s pre-Lenten Mardi Gras began fifty-six years ago to enable the local Woman’s Civic Club to buy the Steiner House on West Patrick Street for its headquarters and to save the house from being demolished. The Steiner House was built in 1807 by local resident, Stephen Steiner, who also designed and built the bell tower at Trinity Chapel on West Church Street.

For additional information, including tickets, visit www.fwccinc.org, or call 301-663-5875. Tickets are also available at Eventbrite Frederick Events/56th Annual Mardi Gras. View the advertisement on page 10.

56th Annual Mardi Gras princesses (from left): (seated) Bianca Bonny, senior at Urbana High School; Julia Cool, freshman at Mount St. Mary’s University; Samantha Smith, Queen of Mardi Gras, junior at Catoctin High School; Peytyn Lofland, junior at Tuscarora High School; Rylee Duncan, senior at Walkersville High School; (standing) Sarah Holland, senior at Brunswick High School; Alayna Grossnickle, junior at Brunswick High School; Katerina George, attends Excelsior Academy/FCC; Maya Aylor, junior at Middletown High School; Wynnanne Walters, senior at Brunswick High School; Erica Craemer, junior at Brunswick High School; Chelsea Burke, junior at Middletown High School; Natalie Pinto, senior at Middletown High School; Catherine Oakley, junior at Walkersville High School. Not pictured: Mackenzie Wright, junior at Walkersville High School.

Lewistown Spelling Bee Champions

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Theresa Dardanell

Congratulations to Lewistown Elementary student Joanna Genemans, who will represent the school at the 2017 Frederick County Spelling Bee on March 11, 2017, at Frederick Community College. The winner of that competition will participate in the 2017 Scripps National Spelling Bee.

The Lewistown PTA sponsored an after-school Spelling Club for students in grades first through fifth. Jennifer Sunday and Julie Chappell worked with students weekly, from November until the Spelling Bee on January 18. They discussed strategies and played spelling games. Fourth-grade student Joanna Genemans was the overall winner; the winners from each grade level were: Emily Feaster (first grade); Kali Chappell (second grade); Lena Bussard (third grade); and Riley Robinson (fifth grade). Lena will attend the Frederick County competition as an alternate.

Lewistown spelling bee winners: Emily Feaster, Kali Chappell, Lena Bussard, Joanna Genemans, and Riley Robinson.

Lewistown Elementary School Fourth- and Fifth-Grade Girls Learn Valuable Lesson

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What a great “Learning Lunch” for the fourth and fifth grade girls at Lewistown Elementary School on January 11, 2017. Guidance Counselor  Greta Nettleton sets up different learning  lunches for students throughout the year. Priya Tandon from Oakdale High and Jordan Bramhall from Middletown High, both winners of the Distinguished Young Women of Frederick County Scholarship Program, presented a lesson on RESPECT for self and others. A tube of toothpaste was used to represent words and actions that you can’t take back once they are let out. Joanna Genemens is seen (above) trying to get the “words and actions” back into the tube.

In addition to speaking to elementary school children, Jordan and Priya have done multiple talks to middle school kids about the importance of staying in school, what a transcript looks like, what to expect in high school, as well as how to prepare for college and life after college. It is all part of the Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program, which is a national scholarship program that rewards high school juniors and seniors who exhibit excellence in academics, leadership and talent.

 

Pictured from left are Priya Tandon, Oakdale High; Joanna Genemans, Lewistown Elementary; and Jordan Bramhall, Middletown High

Emmitsburg Elementary School PTA Wanda Severance Scholarship

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The Emmitsburg Elementary School PTA is offering one Wanda Severance scholarship for $300 to a graduating Catoctin High School (CHS) senior. Requirements are: (1) Attended Emmitsburg Elementary School a minimum of one-full year (K-5); (2) Include a letter of recommendation from either a high school or community-related person (i.e. teacher, counselor, employer, clergy, activity coach); (3) Received an overall 2.85 GPA for four years of high school (verified by the school’s guidance office); (4) Acceptance by any accredited two- or four-year college or technical school; (5) Brief, one-page essay on how your experience at Emmitsburg Elementary School prepared you for your future.  Submit completed application to: Scholarship Committee, Emmitsburg Elementary School PTA, 300 South Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, MD 21727. Forward applications on or before April 3, 2017. The announcement will be made at the CHS awards ceremony.

The scholarship award must be used in the first year after graduating from high school and is non-renewable.

The scholarship funds will be disbursed upon receipt of a certificate of full-time student enrollment, sent to the Emmitsburg Elementary School PTA, by the registrar’s office of the educational institution he or she chooses to attend.

Don’t Make Love A Shot In The Dark

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by Cupid, G.O.A.L. (God Of Archery & Love, an honorary degree from Olympus University)

I was winging my way over the Catoctin Mountain the other day when an errant arrow, launched by a local young lady, sent me tumbling into a tree. I came crashing down pretty hard. It was scary. I’m Cupid. I don’t do scary well. The brown stain in my diaper can attest to that.

The lady apologized for nearly skewering me. Then she added, “I saw the diaper and the wings and thought you were a stork carrying a big, ugly baby my way.”

I took exception to that. My nose may be big, but it’s not that big. Besides, I have better-looking legs than a stork.

Anyway, she told me that The Catoctin Banner Newspaper had a Valentine-themed issue coming up. She asked me, since I am the leading expert on archery, love, and romance, if I would give readers some tips for Valentine’s Day.

I told her, “Sure. Here’s the first tip: Be sure about what you’re shooting at! Don’t tick off the guy bringing the loving!”

She grinned and said, “Maybe I did get what I was aiming for. You’re here, aren’t you?”

She had a point, and it was at the end of the arrow that she was casually aiming in my direction. So here’s my second tip: Women! You can’t live with them, and you can’t outrun them if they are armed.

As I was shopping in Jubilee Market in Emmitsburg for some clean Depends in my size, I came up with a few more tips that I thought I would pass along for those of you who don’t mind advice from a god whose mom was the goddess of love and whose dad was the god of war.

Don’t use a bow that’s too powerful. Be realistic in your expectations of what you can accomplish for Valentine’s Day. If you have your heart set on a moonlight kiss while standing on the Eiffel Tower, you’ll be disappointed with anything realistic that you can actually do. So plan something you can actually pull off.

Sharp arrows penetrate. So do words. If you want to tell your romantic partner something, make it genuine and from the heart. It will have more impact than a greeting card.

Aim for the heart. It’s all about romance. What does your romantic partner love? Try to include that in your planning.

Wear a secure diaper. Like I just said, it’s all about romance. Don’t be in such a rush to get your clothes off. Enjoy the time together.

Make sure to have plenty of arrows. Have a backup plan in case something falls through. It doesn’t have to be elaborate because you shouldn’t need it. Just in case, though, you’re prepared.

Keep your wings out of the way. Not everyone can pull off wings like I can. Fancy is nice, but it’s not necessary. You’ll want to plan something that your romantic partner can connect with.

Make sure your bow is well strung. Get your mind out of the gutter! I wrote strung! Anyway, they say women don’t care so much about that. That’s another reason I wear a diaper.

Accuracy is important. Know what your goal is. You shouldn’t want to make things about you. Making yourself happy is a pleasant side effect. You’ll want to aim for making your romantic partner happy.

Don’t give up accuracy for speed. Take your time as your plans reveal themselves. Don’t rush for the hoped-for outcome. Enjoy the journey and being with someone you love.

Find the right place to hunt. Know where things will take place. Plan out your evening to make it special. If something requires reservations or set-up beforehand, don’t wait until the last minute.

Practice in low light. Game usually isn’t out in bright sunlight, so hunters need to get used to hunting in low-light conditions. The same is true if you’re hunting romance. Nothing helps set the mood better than dim light. Besides, don’t we all look better in candlelight?

Shoot for something. You eventually have to take the shot. Do something. You might mess up, but at least you tried. Don’t waste the most romantic day of the year watching NASCAR on television.

So there you have it, my friends. Sure-fire tips to make sure you hit your target on Valentine’s Day. Will they work? Of course, they will. If you can’t trust a love god who has lived for centuries, who can you trust?

Flashback Photo

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Thurmont – Gateway To The Mountain

The following comes from a June-July 1959 Thurmont Topics. The newsletter was a publication for employees of Moore Business Forms. Thurmont’s late George W. Wiremen was the editor of the publication during his career there.

The Bentztown Bard was the author of the following poem written for Thurmont. A bard is a poet. The Bentztown Bard was the pen name of a 42-year journalist with The Baltimore Sun, named Folger McKinsey. According to cecildaily.com’s journalist, Erika Quesenbery Sturgill, McKinsey was known in Frederick and Baltimore for his writing and poetry, but was an Elkton, Maryland, native and a former assistant editor to the Cecil Whig. He moved from Elkton to Frederick and lived in an area called Bentztown. He worked at The Daily and Weekly News while in Frederick, and wrote two volumes of History of Frederick County, MD, with Thomas J. Williams.

He continued in Baltimore as a columnist. While there he wrote the song, “Baltimore Our Baltimore” in 1915 for a contest that he won. He wrote countless poems. In his obituary upon his death at the age of 83 in July of 1950, he was acclaimed with knowing every nook and cranny of the state, from the mountains to the sea.

Thurmont – Gateway To The Mountain

Thurmont lies at the foot of the hills

And its street runs into the mountain,

And very near are the singing rills

And the foam of a forest fountain;

And the old homes stand in such friendly guise

As if to welcome you in

From the world of struggle and strife

And the hatred, evil and sin.

 

All day long the seasons flow,

The peaks of the ridge beyond it

Are telling of dreams that come and go

To the orchards that softly frond it;

And the lovely park in its quiet peace

Brings back as fine a story

Of the lads that served for the great increase

Of freedom and of glory.

Thurmont stands with its back to the blue

Of the hills, and looks away

To the vales that lie in the frost and dew

And the mists of the autumn gray;

And wandering spirits of fancy dwell

In the nooks and the lovely hollows,

And ever the kiss of the mountain spell

The way of the wanderer follows.

 

Thurmont, high on the hoary knob,

And yet so nestled down

In the tender arms of the mystic hills

That dream of the mountain town;

As I shall dream, as I go my way,

Remembering, aye, so long,

How the autumn sun shone yesterday

On its peace and beauty and song!

 

— THE BENTZTOWN BARD

YMCA Inducts Jerome Nolan Into Hall of Fame

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The 41st Annual YMCA of Frederick County Alvin G. Quinn Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2017, at 6:00 p.m. at the Downtown Y on Market Street in Frederick. Seven new inductees will be recognized, including 1983 Catoctin High School graduate, Jerome Nolan, as a Record-Setting Place Kicker.

Jerome, born and raised in Thurmont, was active in youth sports from an early age. Three of the five midget league football teams that he played on went undefeated. As a two-way starter on the undefeated Catoctin High School JV team, he also began his career as a place kicker. As a sophomore two-way starter for the varsity team, Jerome won all-MVAL and all-county honors as a place kicker and set a school record for PATs in a game. As a high school junior, he was named a First Team all-area linebacker and kicker. As senior captain of the undefeated MVAL and region champion Cougars, he was named as the Frederick News Post Co-Defensive Player of the Year, along with repeating all-star honors from his junior year. He went on to set several team kicking and punting records at Towson University.

Other inductees include Rosalind Anderson—National Age Group Champion Hurdler; Cara Consuegra—All-American Basketball Player and Outstanding College Coach; Ron Manges—Great Athlete, Football Coach, and Sports Announcer; Franklin Martz (deceased)—Outstanding Baseball Player and Coach; Randy Richter—Founder of Soccer and Lacrosse Officials Associations; Darryl Whiten—Outstanding Basketball Player, Coach, and Community Leader.

Tickets to the banquet are $40.00 each and are available through Kim Selby at the Frederick YMCA at 301-663-5131.

Thurmont Little League Baseball Registration for Spring 2017 Opens

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Thurmont Baseball is actively planning to make 2017 their best year ever. Registration is now open and is in full swing until February 24, 2017. Visit their website at www.TLLbaseball.com to register, and please share the message with your friends. Additionally, they will be offering in-person registration on February 5 at the TLL clubhouse (above the concession stand) from 10:00 a.m.-noon.

Players from Emmitsburg, Thurmont, Rocky Ridge, Woodsboro, Taneytown, and Union Bridge are welcome to register. They also offer a sibling discount that applies to families with more than one player. The 2017 League Divisions: All games played at the Thurmont Complex — Tee-Ball (ages 4-6): typically 7 to 10 teams; Instructional League (ages 5-8): typically 6 to 8 teams; Minor League (ages 7-11): typically 8 to 10 teams; Little League Major (ages 9-12): 6 teams; Babe Ruth (ages 13-18): typically 3 to 5 teams.

At the Tee-ball, Instructional, Minor, and Major divisions, all of their games are played in-house at the Thurmont Baseball Complex. This provides their families the convenience of not having to travel around the county for games during school nights. They also have their beautifully renovated concession stand, serving some of the best concession fare in Frederick County. New in 2017, they will be offering some healthier dinner options for families—but don’t worry, the pizza and nachos aren’t going anywhere!

Thurmont Little League is looking forward to seeing your player on their ball fields. Feel free to call Ed Lowry at 267-664-5059 with questions or email them at thurmontbaseball@hotmail.com. View their advertisement on page 28.

Kiara George Named 2017 Miss Catoctin-Aires Queen

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Kiara George, daughter of Teddy George and Donna Walter of Fairfield, Pennsylvania, was named to the prestigious title of Miss Catoctin-Aires Queen for 2017. This title was bestowed upon George from an overwhelming number of votes from the marching corps’ membership. George received the crown and sash from the outgoing queen, her sister, Shyanne George, who enjoyed the title in 2016. Kiara will now represent the group in its new year as queen. This title will permit her to be a featured performer in the group’s hometown parade, as well as other responsibilities throughout 2017.

First runner-up to the title was Erika Oland of Thurmont. Rachel Bechler of Frederick was named as court royalty. Each received a token for their participation in the royalty pageant.

In addition to the crowning ceremony, the group celebrated its undefeated marching corps status during its annual holiday show, held at Catoctin High School. Members of the organization performed in solo and group numbers, twirling batons, hoops, and color guard flags. The group also showcased its percussion line, capturing the 2016 Advanced Marching Corps Percussion Line Championship title with the Capital Area Marching Association organization.

The corps presented its membership with trophies for its championship title win of Advanced Majorette Corps and its undefeated season.  In addition, trophies were presented for perfect attendance, excellence in leadership, and most improved and most prepared twirler. Each member of the group received a duffel bag, displaying the 2016 championship title.

The Catoctin-Ettes, inc., a local, non-profit marching group, now begins preparation for its 2017 competitive season. There are openings in the areas of color guard, to include rifle spinning and flag twirlers; percussion (includes drums, cymbals and bells), as well as the majorette and pom pom lines. For more information about joining the group, please contact Donna Landsperger at 240-405-2604 or at donito@aol.com.

Catoctin-Ettes Free Annual Baton Twirling Course

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The Catoctin-Ettes, Inc. will again host its annual free four-week baton twirling course for beginner twirlers.

Classes will begin on Tuesday, February 7, 2017, at the Emmitsburg Elementary School, with two sets of classes being held: (1) three-five years of age; (2) six years of age and older.

The younger group will attend class from 6:00-6:30 p.m.; the older group will attend class from 6:45-7:30 p.m.

Batons are loaned free of charge for class time. There are absolutely no costs whatsoever. This is a great opportunity to determine a child’s interest for twirling, with no financial outlay. It is also a great opportunity to explore a new activity for children without obligation!

Participants must be pre-registered. For registration or more information, please contact Donna Landsperger at 240-405-2504 or donito@aol.com.

Trinket or Treasure

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by Lisa C. Cantwell

Dear Reader: This is a column to help you determine the history and value of your heirlooms, attic finds, flea market purchases, or antique items. Please send a picture and description of your piece, such as how you acquired it and any details about its history, to tomandlisa@wildblue.net. I’ll research any item, whether it’s a piece of furniture, a painting, a tool, a doll, a figurine, or an article of clothing.  An approximate value will be determined to inform you if it’s a “Trinket or Treasure.” Please submit all pictures and questions by the preceding 15th of the month for possible publication in the next monthly issue of The Catoctin Banner. All inquiries will be answered; however, only those selected for publication will include approximate value assessments. Furthermore, not all submissions may be published in the Banner due to space considerations.  Please include your name or initials and where you reside. Thank you and happy treasure hunting!

This month’s focus will be on three antiques that were recently sold within this region, along the Mason-Dixon Line.

Please send your vintage or antique curiosities to tomandlisa@wildblue.net by February 15 for inclusion in the March column.

Wall Curio Cabinet

This small, wall-mounted curio was bought for $125 at a Franklin County, Pennsylvania, antique show. Dating to the early 20th century, this pine and oak charmer has brass hinges and a turning latch on the door, which recall a “mission” design.  Four shelves on the sides depict a rather classical look, with its Corinthian columns and arches. The top shelf has a rolling, romantic design backdrop, with a hole cut for mounting. Three glass shelves inside suggest a later addition. The original shelves would have been wood. Buyers can expect to pay up to $300-plus for similar pieces with definite period features and maker’s imprint. The buyer planned to use it as a bathroom cabinet, but this piece would look lovely anywhere in a home, displaying small keepsakes and treasures.

 

Barrister’s Bookcase

A stackable, tiger-oak, barrister’s bookcase yielded $350 at a regional antique auction house in Pennsylvania, recently.  Dated 1908, this particular one was sold at a bargain price! Similar bookcases in good condition can bring as much as $600 to $800 in the antique market. This unique design was patented by American businessman, Henry C. Yeiser, in 1892, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

These bookcases were produced by his company, The Globe Wernicke Company, and enjoyed a worldwide market well into the 20th century. Immensely popular in Britain, the bookcase became known as a “barrister bookcase” due to its favor among lawyers and notaries.  In addition to the stackable feature of the shelves, retractable glass door fronts kept dust off precious, expensive law books. The patent on the Wernicke bookshelves lasted only twenty years, so many copycat bookcases were made, and knock-offs are still available in stores today. Globe Wernicke closed its doors in 1955, so to find one of their quality solid-wood barrister’s bookcases in good condition is well worth the investment for any booklover or antique aficionado.

Hay Cradle

The hay cradle brought $125 at an antique mall in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The buyer plans to hang it in her barn to display knitted goods made from organic wools processed at her sheep farm. This cradle has no identifiable maker but is typical of cradles used during the late 1800s. Also known as a “cradle scythe” or “American grain cradle,” it was used to collect straw, which was deposited into piles or mushroom-shaped mounds known as “swaths.” An experienced cradler at work on a farm during the height of use in the late 18th and 19th centuries could cut two acres of grain shafts per day. The earliest cradles of record date to 13th century Europe. Widespread use in Germany probably accounted for immigrant settlers bringing this invention to the Pennsylvania/Maryland region. According to “American Artifacts,” an internet site, E. Whitman Co. of Baltimore, advertised a five-finger cradle for $5.00 in 1858. According to the same source, Sears Roebuck catalog priced a four-finger grain cradle for $2.25.  With the invention of horse-drawn reapers and, later, steam-threshing machines, these cradles fell out of widespread use by the mid-20th century.  In 1924, the last U.S. patent was issued for a grain cradle. Still, American-made cradles can be found at local farm sales.

Happily Ever After- Writer’s Block

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by Valerie Nusbaum

Despite what you might believe, writing is hard work. If a writer has a good idea, the words can flow from the brain, almost more quickly than they can be written. When the ideas stop coming, then the problems begin. That’s where I am today. I have a column due next week and absolutely no idea what to write about.

The column is for the February edition, so it seems silly to write about the recent Christmas holidays. I’ve been there and done that already. Valentine’s Day has been done to death and, besides, there’s only so much I can say about hearts and flowers and romance without gagging. Groundhog Day? I could give you a brief history of how the tradition got started and then tell you that my in-laws were married on February 2, but I don’t know where to go from there. Let’s see…President’s Day? I guess we could discuss Washington and Lincoln and a few other Commanders in Chief. I could mention that I’ve been trying to memorize the names of the Presidents in order of service, and once I’ve mastered that, I plan to commit their terms and Vice Presidents to memory as well. I’m an American. I feel I should know that. I don’t believe I can come up with nine hundred words on that subject, though.

Randy really hasn’t done anything particularly funny lately. He’s working long days at his job, and we have a lot of family issues that we’re dealing with. There’s nothing of interest to my readers in that. This is supposed to be a light, humorous story, not something that will make you cry or fall asleep.

My brother is flying in from Montana for a short visit, and I could write about how we’re always happy to see each other, but we manage to get on each other’s nerves after two hours together. Some things never change.  I’m planning to make a sign to hold up at the airport for him. You know how the limo drivers hold signs with their passengers’ names? My sign will read “Booger.” I’m trying to talk Randy into holding a sign reading “Bigg.” There might be a story in that for another time.

Our nephew sent us pictures of our grand-niece, Clara, playing inside a big cardboard box. That’s it. Not even a paragraph.

My mother suggested that I write about the time we were kids, and Mom was sledding with us at my grandparents’ house. Mom ran over Pap’s peach tree with the sled. She thinks that story is hilarious. You be the judge.

I’ve started three other columns and have left them all hanging. One was, indeed, about Valentine’s Day. I couldn’t finish it. Another one was about the month of February.  Three paragraphs in and I was stumped. The third one was a piece of fiction about a girl who was allergic to flowers and chocolate. What was I thinking?

I was getting desperate, and then I remembered that right after Christmas I had read The Girl on the Train. I found that book very disturbing, and yet I couldn’t put it down. After I finished the book, I gave it to Randy and asked if he’d read it to see if he had the same reaction. Not being a big fan of “chick lit,” he read it and then said, “You’re darn right it was disturbing. I read the whole stupid book about those silly people, and the writer never once mentioned what kind of train it was.” His reaction cracked me up, but I didn’t think I could write a whole column around it.

I thought about writing something regarding weight loss since everyone seems to be trying to lose weight after the holidays. Then I remembered something else that Randy said recently. You see, he’s not a member of Oprah’s fan club. Now that Oprah owns a portion of Weight Watchers and she’s become their spokesperson, Randy is even more annoyed with her. We were watching television the other night and one of Oprah’s commercials came on. Randy looked over and said, “You know, someone should put Oprah and Marie Osmond in a room together and let them eat each other.” It took me a second, and then I figured out that Marie is a spokesperson for Nutri-Systems. Maybe a weight loss column is a good idea for another month, but I think I’ll leave Oprah out of it.  And Marie.

So here I am with a whole lot of nothing. Life is like that. Sometimes it’s exciting and filled to the brim with action and adventure. More often than not, it’s like this. Stuff happens, but most of it isn’t worth repeating. And some of it can’t be repeated in polite company (most of my emails with my friend, Gail, fall in this category). We have appointments with our doctors and dentists, we get bills that need to be disputed, we have lunch or dinner with friends, and we spend time with our families. We can choose to grumble about things or we can smile and get on with it. Most of all, we can relax and enjoy the slow times. Trust me, it won’t always be this way.