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The Supermarket Gourmet

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by Buck Reed

Cobblers, Crisps, and Buckles

It may not feel like it, but fall is upon us. And what’s not to like? We get a little respite from all the hot weather, we witness beautiful foliage change, and we get to enjoy a string of food-centric holidays. Add onto that, it’s pie season. Yes, we have to bring out the rolling pin and start our work that calls for a myriad of pies needed to pair the dessert with the holiday they line up with. Yet, maybe you can cut back a little of that work by substituting one of those pies with a crisp or a cobbler. Would anyone even notice if an apple pie was replaced by a crisp? It might bring a little variety to your feast. It will also save you a bit of labor.

Let’s start by labeling these cobblers, just to make it simple. There are many kinds of cobblers, but a basic definition of one would be “a prepared fruit that is baked under or over a batter, streusel, or dough.” Below are the basic types:

  • Betty: Fruit is topped with buttered breadcrumbs and spices and baked.
  • Buckle: Fruit is topped with a simple yellow cake batter and baked.
  • Cobbler: Fruit is covered with biscuit or pastry dough—either rolled out, stamped out, or dropped. Dessert is baked until golden brown.
  • Crisp: Fruit is topped with a mixture of butter, sugar, flour, and, sometimes, nuts, then baked.
  • Crumble: Fruit is topped with butter, sugar, flour, and oatmeal, then baked.
  • Fruit Roll: Biscuit dough is rolled and fit into a loaf pan. Fruit is added, and dough encases the fruit. Dessert is baked, then sliced.

Serving them simple is not a bad way to go, but it is just as easy to make something a bit more elegant. The only set rule is to try to serve them warm or even hot. This may call for assembling and planning on warming it up if prepared ahead or cooking it in a timely manner to be enjoyed right after your meal. You can make this work.

Right now is the perfect time to start that planning. Deals and sales are being offered by your local supermarkets, and with a little work right now, you can get started on Thanksgiving dessert and be ahead of the game. This will call for you to purchase your various fruits and begin peeling, slicing, cooking, or macerating them into a usable product that will help you make a spectacular dessert. Just place it all in freezer bags and freeze, feeling good that you have something already done for your holiday. Don’t relax too much. You still have 999,999 other things to make it to January.

Like I said, basic and simple is good, but I have done some pretty amazing things with this dessert. Try adding cheese, such as mascarpone, cheddar, or Parmesan, to your fruits. This can add an unexpected richness to your dessert. I also like a sour cream apple crisp, which is a winner in anyone’s book. Also, using a layer of cheesecake batter on your cobbler will make it stand out. Look at the various top-shelf jellies, which will add pizzazz to your dish. Raspberry or strawberry jam goes well in a berry cobbler. Why not add some fig jam as well?

This is one of those desserts that can be a game changer for your holiday feast, but you need to do a bit of planning and execution to pull it off. Make a splash this holiday season, and create your own cobbler, crisp, or buckle.

Eat well feel good

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Jalapeño Popper Mac n’ Cheese Bites

Prep Time: 2o minutes

Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12
High-Calcium     Bone-Health     Vegetarian     Nut-Free     Low-Sodium

Ingredients

6 ounces small elbow macaroni

5 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 large egg

¾ cup whole milk

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon dry mustard

2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeño pepper

2 tablespoons finely chopped pickled jalapeños (optional)

12 ounces shredded Mexican cheese blend (about 3 cups), divided

Cooking spray

¼ cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)

12 pickled jalapeño slices, halved (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.

Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente, omitting salt. Drain and return the pasta to the pan. Add cream cheese and butter, stirring until the butter is melted and the cream cheese is smooth and melted. Set aside.

Whisk egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard in a large bowl. Add the pasta mixture; stir to combine. Add chopped jalapeño and chopped pickled jalapeños. Reserve 1/2 cup shredded cheese; stir the remaining cheese into the pasta mixture.

Lightly coat a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the pasta mixture into each cup; top evenly with the reserved cheese. Sprinkle evenly with panko, and lightly coat with cooking spray.

Bake until set and lightly browned on top, 22 to 24 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand for 15 minutes. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley and top each bite with a halved pickled jalapeño slice. Serve immediately.

Community Veteran Event Board

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American Legion Post 168, Thurmont
The Pop-Up Shops have been a great hit! But due to Octoberfest, we are taking a break in October. We will return with Shop Small Weekend on November 30 and Christmas in Thurmont on December 7.

Calling all Legion members (yes, SAL and Auxiliary, too), we are in need of volunteers for various jobs and baked goods for Octoberfest. If you are interested in setting up, manning the bake sale tables/beer garden, and taking  down, please email thurmontlegionaux168@gmail.com and indicate where you are interested in assisting. Baked goods need to be at the Legion by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 11. We will need your name and phone number, as well as the ingredients accompanying your baked goods. Remember, these are fundraisers, and the funds help Veterans, children and youth, education, scholarships, and the community.

On October 26, National Day of the Deployed honors all service members who have been deployed in service of our country and acknowledges the sacrifices that military families make during deployment. If you know of a deployed service member, check in with the family, maybe take them to dinner, or take the kids to the park. There are many ways to show them that they are not forgotten.

The 2025 membership year began July 1. Dues for 2025 need to be paid by December 31, 2024. Dues are as follows: Legionnaires—$45.00, Sons of American Legion—(over 21) $25.00 and (under 21) $15.00; Auxiliary—$35.00; Juniors—$12.00. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Legion, stop by and pick up an application at the bar.

We are looking for a Junior Member to be Miss Poppy. If you are a member of the Legion Auxiliary Juniors or know of someone who can join as a member and would be interested in filling this position, please email thurmontlegionaux168@gmail.com.

Remember, we have fun weekly events happening at the Legion. Check us out on Facebook and in the Community Calendar in this issue. The kitchen is open with amazing specials and a regular menu on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 5:00-8:00 p.m.

Mark your calendar for our Veterans Luncheon on November 16 and Breakfast with Santa on December 14.

“The Patriot’s Pen” Essay Contest

Each year, the VFW Post 6658 Auxiliary in Emmitsburg sponsors a contest, titled “The Patriot’s Pen,” which is open to students in grades 6 through 8.

Students are required to do a typed essay of 300-400 words based on the theme: “My Voice in America’s Democracy.” Monetary prizes are given to the winners on local, state, and national levels. Judging is based on knowledge of theme, theme development, and clarity of ideas.

If interested, please contact Annette Wivell at 240-675-0356 for an entry form. Entry deadline to VFW Post 6658, Emmitsburg, is October 31, 2024.

“Voice of Democracy” Contest

Each year, the VFW Post 6658 in Emmitsburg sponsors a contest, titled “Voice of Democracy,” which is open to students in grades 9 through 12. Students are required to record a 3-5 minute audio essay based on the theme: “Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Vision?” 

Monetary prizes are given to the winners on local, state, and national levels. Judging is based on originality, content, and delivery.

If interested, please contact Eric Wivell at 240-675-0346 for an entry form. Entry deadline to VFW Post 6658, Emmitsburg, is October 31, 2024.

 

Thurmont Senior Center

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Jody Eyler , the newest inductee into the Maryland Senior Center Hall of Fame
Fred Henning, faithful customer at our monthly fundraiser at Roy Rogers
Teresa and Terry Kempisty, our former coordinator and her husband reminding everyone to visit our bake sale and to mention the Senior Center when getting dinner

by Kristen Bodmer
Fall is here, leaves are changing colors and crisp breezes are blowing. We are looking forward to Colorfest, our Yard Sale, Thanksgiving! We would love for you to come join us as we get to spend time together laughing and playing games and sharing fellowship.

October is full of activities. Take the opportunity to take a look at the calendar of events we have scheduled. You can find our calendar on the website at thurmontseniorcenter.org, on Facebook, or just come in to pick one up. Just a quick reminder that because of Colorfest, we will not be having the fundraiser and bake sale at Roy Rogers this month. Carol and Nancy will be busy with our annual yard sale that week. The yard sale will be on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. We hope to see you there.

We are so proud to announce that Jody Eyler of Thurmont was inducted into the Maryland Senior Citizen Hall of Fame. We are so happy that she has been recognized for all that she does for this community. Along with volunteering at the Grange and the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, she is an outstanding volunteer here at the Thurmont Senior Center. She works in the kitchen, drives people to the store or appointments—really, she just steps in whenever she can. Jody, we are so proud of you!

September was a fun-filled month.  We had two exciting bingos. We stretched and exercised. We played Farkle, Hand and Foot, Pinochle and Poker. We laughed and laughed.  We also had coffee, tea, and goodies galore. You just never know how much fun you can have. We would love for you to join us for some fun and fellowship.

We hold a free balance and strength exercise session daily, on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, beginning at 11:00 a.m. We play Pinochle on Tuesday, Bunko on the second Thursday of the month, and Farkle on the fourth Thursday of the month. We also play Bingo every first and third Wednesday of the month. If a month has a fifth Wednesday, we have a Special Bingo. It is always a fun time, full of enjoyment and special homemade treats for halftime. I can’t forget to mention our coffee. We are told it’s the best, so come in and have a cup with us.

Friday’s, we have Zumba. We also offer Poker and 500. Just to let you know, we now have a whole corner dedicated to exercise. We have two treadmills, a stair climber, and a recumbent bicycle for use during our hours, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There is no charge to use this equipment.

Just a reminder that some activities may have a minimal cost, but to join the center is free.

We really love having the community use the center. Check out the YMCA’s Y on the Fly. They will be having some classes in the evenings here. We are very excited for this partnership.

Come out and have a delicious lunch with us, served every day at noon. The meals are $6.00 each. We would love to share a meal with you.  Please call the day before to sign up for lunch. Menus can be found at the center, on Facebook, and on our website at thurmontseniorcenter.org.

As you know, we get our lunches from restaurants in town. We do everything possible to keep our costs down, and these restaurants continually work with us to make that happen. We have served so many lunches this past year, and, because of this partnership, we were able to put $35,000 back into the restaurants.  We love each restaurant: Bollinger’s, Fratelli’s, Mountain Gate, Rocky’s, and Kountry Kitchen. Thank you for your continued support.

As a reminder with COVID, flu, and cold season upon us, if you have symptoms or are not feeling well, please stay home. We have some COVID tests at the center if you need one. We want to keep everyone as healthy as we can. We will hold a Flu Clinic on Mondy, October 15, from  11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The Thurmont Senior Center is available to rent for different activities as well, like perhaps a baby shower, a birthday party, or a bridal shower.

Don’t forget to call the center or check online to get an updated calendar for our lunches and activities for the next month, and check out the Community Calendar in this issue for event dates and times. We always have fun things planned, and we would love to have you come out and join us.

As always, if you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us at 301-271-7911.

“Observations from the Woodpile”

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Jeff Yocum

Prologue

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

I’ve often wondered if my kids had been birds in a nest, which one would have been pitched over the side by the others? Nature shows on television tell us that it helps the species because the weaker siblings don’t live long enough to breed. I think human siblings do it to convince the parents not to have more kids. I know I’m convinced.

Rummaging around in the barn, the boys found an old two-man saw I had bought several years ago. They brought it to me, eager to give it a try. I had my doubts but agreed. I showed them how to pull the saw through the wood and rest as the other fellow pulled it back. That keeps the saw from binding. 

After some safety tips, I let them go at it. I was careful to watch them, more out of curiosity as to how long it would take before they were in a fight than for fear that they would get hurt. I thought after the saw bound a few times from one of them trying to push, they’d end up rolling on the ground and I’d have to separate them.

I have to admit, they sure fooled me. They got the hang of working a two-man saw after just a couple cuts. Before long, they had cut off the end of every log that stuck out of the stack. Sensing that I had stumbled across something, I built them a sawbuck and began saving logs eight to ten inches in diameter for them to cut. I let them use the saw only after we had split some wood. (That way the sawing was still viewed as a privilege).

The following September, our little town put on its annual community show. One of the attractions was a sawing contest for different age groups. The boys entered and actually won the blue ribbon for the under-twelve age group. Don’t you know, I’ve used that little story to show them what they can do when they cooperate.

Fall Festival Yard Sale Guide

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Shopping yard sales during October 9-13?
Check out our Yard Sale Guide, so you don’t miss the best bargains and treasures around.

Multi-Family/Estate Sale

October 10-13: Multi-Family/Estate Yard Sale (rain or shine): 8 a.m.-6 p.m., 13731 Hillside Avenue, Thurmont. Household & Vintage Items & Many Assorted Box Lots. Come & Negotiate A Fair Price — Everything Must Go.

Yard Sale

October 9-11: Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-3 p.m., 14507 Holstein Court, Thurmont.

Apples Church Yard Sale

October 10-12: Yard Sale: 7908 Apples Church Road, Thurmont. Tons of good stuff for sale.

Graceham Moravian Yard Sale

October 10-12: Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Graceham Moravian Church, 8231A Rocky Ridge Road, Thurmont.

Harriet Chapel Giant Yard Sale

October 10-12: Giant Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Harriet Chapel, 12625 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont. Great items and great prices.

Legacy Livestock Flea Market

October 12: Flea Market: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 137 Emmitsburg Road, Thurmont.

Ridgefest

October 11-13: Flea Market Vendors: (Oct. 11-12) 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; (Oct. 13) 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Mt. Tabor Church Park, 13616 Motter Station Road, Rocky Ridge.

Estate Yard Sale

October 10-12: Estate Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-until, 3 Ironmaster Drive, Thurmont. Jewelry (all types), crafts, ceramics, and Christmas decorations.

Weller UMC Yard Sale

October 9-10: Yard Sale (rain or shine): 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Weller UMC, 101 N. Altamont Street, Thurmont.

St. John’s Estate Yard Sale

October 10-12: Estate Yard Sale (rain or shine): 7:30 a.m., St. John’s Lutheran Church, 8619 Blacks Mill Road, Thurmont. All proceeds benefit building fund/window project.

St. Anthony’s Shrine Yard Sale

October 10-13: Yard Sale: 7 a.m.-2 p.m., St. Anthony’s Shrine, Emmitsburg. Clothes, shoes, household items, and lots of good stuff.

Albert’s Yard Sale

October 12: Yard Sale: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Benefits St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 17015 Sabillasville Road, Sabillasville. Something for everyone.

Community Calendar

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Event Advertisements

You may advertise an event in our calendar for free by submitting an entry under the ‘Calendar’ tab at www.TheCatoctinBanner.com. For a more detailed listing (details, contact information, ticket information, and web address), please sign up for a paid display ad under the Calendar tab and reference the Advertisement Rates tab for costs and contract. Paid display ads come with a detailed calendar listing and a write-up in the Around Town section that references your ad page. Calendar listings will be listed only in the calendar month in which they take place.

October Community Calendar

1…….. Help the Town of Thurmont Honor Catoctin Colorfest on Its 60th Anniversary, Thurmont Municipal Offices, 615 E. Main St., Thurmont. 7 p.m.

1…… Open Chess Play, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 3 p.m.

1…… Balance & Strength, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 11 a.m. Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Friday.

2…… Bible Studies with Pastor Ken (Wednesdays), Thurmont UMC, 13880 Long Rd., Thurmont. 7 p.m. 301-991-7839.

2…… Coffee & Chat, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 10 a.m. Also: 9, 16, 23, 30.

2…… Bingo, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 1 p.m. Also: 16, 30.

3…… Bible Study (every Thursday), Weller UMC, 101 N. Altamont Ave., Thurmont. 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.

3…… Taekwondo for All Ages (Thursdays), Thurmont UMC, 13880 Long Rd., Thurmont. Special classes for adult self-defense over 40 (7 p.m.); Youth classes (5 p.m.). With Master Pete Golden. 301-991-7839.

4…… Bingo (every Friday night), Thurmont Event Complex, 13716 Strafford Dr., Thurmont. Doors open 5 p.m.; Bingo 6:45 p.m. Tip jars; food; jackpot $1,000. Benefits Thurmont Community Amb. Srv. www.thurmonteventcomplex.com.

4…… Dominoes, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 1 p.m. Also: 18, 25.

4,5…. Jacob’s Church Yard & Bake Sale, 495 Harbaugh Valley Rd., Fairfield, PA. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

5…… Operation Christmas Child Project Leader Workshop, Mt. Airy Baptist Church, 1402 N. Main St., Mt. Airy. 11 a.m.

5…… Zumba, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 10:15 a.m. Also: 19, 26.

5…… Rocky Ridge Vol. Fire Co. Cruise In Car Show, 13527 Motters Station Rd, Rocky Ridge. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dash plaques to first 50 entries. No entry fee. Donations welcome. Food & drink for sale. Basket raffles, 50/50 & more.

5,6…. 51st Annual Catoctin Gas & Steam Engine Show, Wolfsville Ruritan Community Park, 12708 Brandenburg Hollow Rd., Myersville. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Gas & steam engines, tractors, antique cars & trucks, sawmill demo, homemade food (breakfast 7-10 a.m.; lunch 10 a.m.-5 p.m.), flea market, craft vendors & kids’ playground.

6…… Shotgun Shoots (12 Gauge & 410), Indian Lookout Conservation Club, 17107 Riffle Rd., Emmitsburg. Registration at noon; shoots 1 p.m.

6…… Lewistown Ruritan BBQ Chicken, U.S. 15 North & Fish Hatchery Rd., Thurmont. 10 a.m. until sold out.

7…… Teen Black Light Pumpkin Painting, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 6 p.m.

7…… Community Clothes Closet, Thurmont UMC, 13880 Long Rd., Thurmont. 6-7:30 p.m. Free clothing for men, women & children. For emergency needs call 301-271-4511.

8…… A Conversation on International Affairs w/Shaun Donnelly, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 7 p.m.

8…… Gettysburg Community Concert Association Presents the Barclay Brass, St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York St., Gettysburg, PA. 7:30 p.m.

9…… Building Community: Habitat for Humanity in Frederick County, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 6 p.m.

9,10.. Yard Sale, Weller UMC, 101 N. Altamont Ave., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Rain or Shine. 301-271-2802 or www.wellerchurch.com.

10-12 Huge Colorfest Yard Sale, Apples UCC, 7908 Apples Church Rd., Thurmont. Tons of great stuff for sale. Hot dogs & baked goods avail. 301-606-2169.

10-12 Fall Fest, Harriet Chapel, 12625 Catoctin Furnace Rd., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Great food: homemade soup, sausage sandwiches, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, etc. Bake table.

10-12 Estate Yard Sale, 3 Ironmaster Ct., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-until. Jewelry (all types), crafts, ceramics & Christmas decorations.

10-12 Yard Sale, Graceham Moravian Church, 8231A Rocky Ridge Rd., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Food sale: fried oyster sandwiches, hot dogs, hot beef, ham sandwiches, chicken salad, soups & baked items. www.gracehammoravian. org or 301-271-2379.

10-12 Hugh Yard Sale, St. John’s Lutheran Church, 15 N. Church St., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sandwiches & drinks for sale. Great bargains.

10-12 Giant Yard Sale, Harriet Chapel, 12625 Catoctin Furnace Rd., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Great items; great prices.

10-12 Yard Sale, Graceham Moravian Church, 8231-A Rocky Ridge Rd., Thurmont. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Food sale: fried oyster sandwiches, hot dogs, hot beef, ham sandwiches, chicken salad, soups & baked items. www.gracehammoravian.org or 301-271-2379.

10-13 Yard Sale, Food Sale & Bake Sale, St. Anthony’s Shrine, Emmitsburg. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Clothes, shoes, household items, lots of good stuff. Food only Thurs. & Fri. Spaces avail.: $5/day (must bring own table). Reservation for space not needed. Info.: Leo 301-730-3384.

11….. Livestock Auction, Legacy Livestock Auctions, 137 Emmitsburg Rd., Thurmont. 5 p.m. 240-440-4841.

11-13 Thurmont Grange Hall, Carnival Grounds and Carroll St., Thurmont. Oct. 11: 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Oct. 12-13: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Hand-dipped ice cream, chicken salad & country ham sandwiches, drinks & homemade baked goods.

11-13 Mount Tabor Church Ridgefest, Mount Tabor Church Park, 13616 Motters Station Rd., Rocky Ridge. Fri. & Sat.–8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun.–8 a.m.-1 p.m. (for food only). Flea market, home-cooked food (cash only), apple butter $5/pint.

11-13 Yard Sale Fundraiser, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

12….. 48th Annual Sabillasville Mountain Festival Car Show, Sabillasville Environmental School (SES), 16210 Sabillasville Rd., Sabillasville. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration 10 a.m. $10 entry fee. Dash plaques for first 50 registrants. Trophies awarded. All proceeds benefit SES PTO. Rain date: Oct. 13. www.sesclassical.org.

12….. Flea Market, Legacy Livestock Auctions, 137 Emmitsburg Rd., Thurmont. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Call 301-712-5176 to set up.

12….. Thurmont AMVETS Post 7 Kitchen & Dining Room Open to the Public, 26 Apples Church Rd., Thurmont.Noon-6 p.m.

12….. Community Movie Night: Top Gun Maverick, Carnival Grounds, 8 W. Locust St., Union Bridge. 5 p.m.; movie 7 p.m.

12,13 60th Annual Catoctin Colorfest, Community Park, Fredrick Rd., Thurmont. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nationally recognized juried arts & craft show. Free admission; shuttle bus service avail. www.colorfest.org.

12,13 48th Annual Sabillasville Mountain Festival, Sabillasville Environmental School (SES), 16210 Sabillasville Rd., Sabillasville. Oct. 12: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Oct. 13: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission & parking. Family-fun event. Vendors, live demos, kid’s games, food trucks, live music (noon-2 p.m.). Car Show (Oct. 12: 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; registration 10 a.m.); Tractor Show (both days). All proceeds benefit SES PTO. www.sesclassical.org.

12,13 48th Annual Sabillasville Mountain Festival Tractor Show, Sabillasville Environmental School (SES), 16210 Sabillasville Rd., Sabillasville. No entry fee. Brad Brauning for drop-off info.: 443-375-9766 or email SESMountainFest@gmail.com. www.sesclassical.org.

12,13 Ridgefest Food Sales, Rocky Ridge Vol. Fire Co., 13527 Motters Station Rd, Rocky Ridge. 6 a.m.-5 p.m. Breakfast sandwiches or famous fried ham sandwiches, fries, drinks. Yard sale spots avail: $20 inside spot; $10 outside spot: Penny 240-674-9834.

13….. Blue Ridge Summit Library Silent Auction Fundraiser at Top Secret Tap Room, 14332 Barrick Ave., Fort Ritchie. 3-6 p.m.

13….. Combined Services, Weller UMC, 101 N. Altamont Ave., Thurmont. 8:30 a.m. No Sunday School. 301-271-2802 or www.wellerchurch.com.

13….. Union Bridge Country Breakfast, Union Bridge Fire Hall, 8 W. Locust St., Union Bridge. 7 a.m.-11 a.m.

15….. Community Clothes Closet, Thurmont UMC, 13880 Long Rd., Thurmont. 10-11:30 a.m. Free clothing for men, women & children. For emergency needs call 301-271-4511.

15….. Open Chess Play, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 3 p.m.

15….. Flu Clinic w/Safeway, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

16….. Thurmont AMVETS Post 7 Ladies Aux. Wednesday Bingo Night, 26 Apples Church Rd., Thurmont. Doors open 5 p.m.; games 7 p.m.

17….Senior Potluck Luncheon (for those 55+). 11:30 a.m., St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 17015 Sabillasville Rd, Sabillasville

18….. Seated Massage by Marie Free, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

19….. Community Yard Sale, Grace “Rocky Hill” Lutheran Church, 10825 Coppermine Rd., Woodsboro. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

19….. Woodsboro Days, Woodsboro Park, Woodsboro. Noon-5:30 p.m. Free music festival (bring own chairs), vendors, food trucks, face painting, beer & wine & much more. Yard sales around town. Info. or to be a vendor: Burgess Heath Barnes 301-401-7164.

19….. Tom’s Creek UMC BBQ Fundraiser (Eat-In/Carryout), Tom’s Creek UMC Fellowship Hall, 10926 Simmons Rd., Emmitsburg. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy delicious BBQ sandwiches, sides & desserts. Everyone welcome. www.tomscreekumc.com.

19….. Rocky Ridge Vol. Fire Co. & Auxiliary Open House, 13527 Motters Station Rd., Rocky Ridge. 1-4 p.m. 75th Anniversary Ceremony 2 p.m. Balloons, face painting, demos, and more. Light refreshments. Free to spectators.

19….. Big Yard Sale & Food Sale, Woodsboro Lutheran Church, Woodsboro. 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

19….. Catoctin High School Class of 1979 45th Reunion, Thurmont AMVETS Community Room, 26 Apples Church Rd., Thurmont. 5 p.m.

19,20 Fall Harvest Show, Murphy Farm, 11502 Browningsville Rd., Ijamsville. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

19,20 Brain to Bookshelf Maryland Writers’ Association Annual Conference, Hilton Hotel BWI, 1739 West Nursery Rd., Linthicum. 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

20….. Shotgun Shoots (12 Gauge & 410), Indian Lookout Conservation Club, 17107 Riffle Rd., Emmitsburg. Registration at noon; shoots 1 p.m.

20….. Light the Night Trunk or Treat, Victory Tabernacle, 6710 Kellys Store Rd., Thurmont. 5-7 p.m. Registration begins 4:45 p.m. Free hot dogs, snacks, treats. Crafts & door prizes.

20….. Trunk of Treat, Thurmont UMC, Church Parking Lot, 13880 Long Rd., Thurmont. 5 p.m.

21….. Slippery Chicken Pot Pie Quart Sale Pre-Order, Drive thru at Union Bridge Firehall, 8 W. Locust St., Union Bridge. 1-3 p.m. 443-791-8496.

21….. Teen: Create Boo-tiful Tiny Art, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 6 p.m.

22….. Crafting fun w/Pauline’s Pals – Rock Painting Party, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 1 p.m.

22….. Not-So-Spooky Storywalk, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 5 p.m.

22….. Open Chess Play, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 3 p.m.

23….. Why Vote, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 6 p.m.

24….. Potluck & General Meeting w/Special Music, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. 1 p.m.

25….. Farkle, Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E Main St., Thurmont. 1 p.m.

25….. Trunk or Treat, Legacy Livestock Auctions, 137 Emmitsburg Rd., Thurmont. 6 p.m. 240-440-4841.

26….. Halloween in the Park, Thurmont Community Park, Thurmont. 5 p.m.

26….. Fall Party of Parties, St. John’s Lutheran Church, 15 N. Church St., Thurmont. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Meet vendors & shop for holidays. Light refreshments provided.

26….. Horse & Tack Sale, Legacy Livestock Auctions, 137 Emmitsburg Rd., Thurmont. Tack 12 p.m.; Horses 3 p.m.  240-440-4841.

26….. AMVETS #7 Halloween Dance Party & Costume Contest, 26 Apples Church Rd., Thurmont. 7-11 p.m. Featuring DJ Fire. Raffles, 50/50, games. Halloween drink specials. Costume contest: best couples, scariest, most original, overall best. Open to public. Kitchen open until 8 p.m. (lite fare provided after).

26….. Trunk n’ Treat, First Baptist Church, 7 Sunny Way, Thurmont. 4-6 p.m. Decorate your car trunk (no scary scenes). Enjoy treats, games & free food. Trophy for best trunk. Bring non-perishable food item for food bank. Register: www.fbcthurmont.org.

27….. Fall Festival, Weller UMC, 101 N. Altamont Ave., Thurmont. Combined Services 9:30 a.m.; lite lunch 11 a.m. Children’s costume judging and trunk or treat. All welcome. 301-271-2802 or www.wellerchurch.com.

27….. Slippery Chicken Pot Pie Quart Sale Pre-Order, Drive thru at Union Bridge Firehall, 8 W. Locust St., Union Bridge. 1-3 p.m. 443-791-8496.

27….. Coach Bag & Money Bingo, Thurmont Event Complex, 13716 Strafford Dr., Thurmont. Doors open 11 a.m.; games 1 p.m. $25/person (includes 28 games). Tip jars, 50/50, door prizes. Cash bar & kitchen. Benefits Thurmont Amb. Co. Tickets: Tammy Wolf 717-420-0209.

27….. VTC Trunk or Treat, 6710 Kelly’s Store Rd., Thurmont. 5 p.m.

27….. Cub Scout Pack 270’s Spookghetti Dinner, Thurmont American Legion, 8 Park Ln., Thurmont. Noon-5 p.m.

28….. Community Clothes Closet, Thurmont UMC, 13880 Long Rd., Thurmont. 6-7:30 p.m. Free clothing for men, women & children. For emergency needs call 301-271-4511.

28….. Teen Create Your Own Haunted House Luminary, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 6 p.m.

29….. Open Chess Play, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 3 p.m.

31….. Not-So-Spooky Storytime, Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Rd., Thurmont. 10:30 a.m.

31….. Halloween in Emmitsburg. Trick-or-treating 5-6:45 p.m. Parade tagging & lineup 6:50-7:15 p.m. at town swimming pool parking lot on W. Lincoln Ave. Costume judging categories: cutest, funniest, scariest, most original, best group. Gingerbread & cider, door prizes & awards following parade at Vigilant Hose Co. fire station. All welcome.

AROUND town

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Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company Open House

Drop by the Rocky Ridge Fire Company and help celebrate its 75th Anniversary on October 19, from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., beginning at  2:00 p.m. Additional activities include face painting, demonstrations, and fire injury prevention information. Light refreshments will be served and anniversary apparel will be available for sale. View the advertisement on page 40.


Halloween in Emmitsburg

Bring the whole family out for Halloween in Emmitsburg on Thursday, October 31, for a spooky-fun time! Trick-or-treating will be from 5:00-6:45 p.m. The parade tagging and lineup will be at the town swimming pool parking lot, from 6:50-7:15 p.m. Costume judging categories are cutest, funniest, scariest, most original, and best group. Also enjoy gingerbread and cider, games, and door prizes and awards! View the advertisement on page 33 for more details.


60th Annual Catoctin Colorfest

Bring the whole family out for the 60th Annual Catoctin Colorfest on October 12 and 13, from 9:00 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Thurmont Community Park. Browse the juried art and crafts vendors and enjoy great food. Free admission and shuttle bus service available. View the advertisement on page 27.

Holiday Bazaar

Mark your calendars for the Guardian Hose Company’s Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, November 2, from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Activities Building on E. Main Street in Thurmont. Come hungry! They will be serving breakfast and lunch. View the advertisement on page 3.

Thurmont Lion’s Christmas Ornaments

Don’t wait! Make sure to order your Thurmont Lion’s Club Christmas Ornament,  featuring local artist Rebecca Pearl’s painting “Winter Magic at Belle Hill.” Ornaments are $10.60, including tax. View the advertisement on page 30 for more information.


Bingo — Every Friday Night

The Thurmont Community Ambulance hosts its Friday Night Bingo every Friday! Come out to the Thurmont Event Complex every Friday night to play bingo! Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Bingo starts at 7:00 p.m. Bingo also features tip jars, food, and a jackpot up to $1,500! Proceeds benefit Thurmont Community Ambulance. View the advertisement on page 35.


Thurmont Grange Food Sale

Stop by the Thurmont Grange Hall during Colorfest on Friday, October 11, from 11:00 a.m. -1:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, October 12-13, from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., for reasonably priced food, including hand-dipped ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, butter pecan, black raspberry, peach), country ham sandwiches, chicken salad sandwiches, drinks, and baked goods. View the advertisement on page 20 for more details.


Tom’s Creek UMC BBQ

Mark your calendars for Tom’s Creek UMC BBQ fundraiser (eat in/carryout) on Saturday, October 19, from 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., at Tom’s Creek UMC Fellowship Hall, 10926 Simmons Road in Emmitsburg. Enjoy delicious BBQ sandwiches, sides, and desserts. Everyone is welcome, so please bring family, friends, and neighbors. Check the website for more information at www.tomscreekumc.com and view the advertisement on page 38.

Light the Night Trunk or Treat

Victory Tabernacle is hosting a Light the Night Trunk or Treat event on Sunday, October 20, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Registration will begin at 4:45 p.m. The event includes free hot dogs, snacks, treats, crafts, and door prizes! View the advertisement on page 27.

Country Breakfast & Butchering

The Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company’s Country Style Breakfast & Butchering is on Saturday, November 23, at the Activities Building on Motters Station Road, from 6:00-10:00 a.m. Butchering orders must be placed in advance. Visit www.rockyridgevfc.com for more details and view the advertisement on page 26.

Yard Sale! Food Sale! Bake Sale!

Come out to St. Anthony’s Shrine in Emmitsburg on October 10-13, from 7:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., for its Yard Sale, Food Sale, and Bake Sale! Find clothes, shoes, household items, and more, plus delicious food and baked goods. Spaces are available for $5.00 per day (must bring your own table). Reservations for space is not required. View the advertisement on page 12.


Woodsboro Days

Bring the whole family out for Woodsboro Days on Saturday, October 19, from noon-5:30 p.m., at Woodsboro Park. Enjoy a free music festival—just bring your own chairs. The event also features vendors, face painting, beer and wine, food trucks, and much more! Don’t miss the big Yard Sale & Food Sale at Woodsboro Lutheran Church, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. View the advertisement on page 25 for more information.


Shotgun Shoots

The Indian Lookout Conservation Club in Emmitsburg will be holding Shotgun Shoots (12 gauge and 410) on October 6, October 20, and November 6. Registration starts at 12:00 p.m., and the shoots start at 1:00 p.m. View the advertisement on page 41 for more details.


Apples Church Yard Sale

Come by and browse the huge Yard Sale benefiting Apples Church and the community on October 10, 11, and 12 in Thurmont. Tons of great stuff for sale! Hot Dogs and baked goods will also be available. View the advertisement on page 43 for more information.


Legacy Livestock Horse & Tack Sale & Flea Market

Legacy Livestock Auction LLC in Thurmont will hold a Flea Market on October 12, from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Want to be a vendor? Call 301-712-5176. On October 26, they will hold their monthly Horse & Tack Sale, starting at 12:00 p.m. for tack and 3:00 p.m. for horses. View the advertisement on page 18 for more information.


First Baptist Church Trunk or Treat

Come in costume for Thurmont First Baptist Church’s Trunk or Treat on
Saturday, October 26, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Decorate your car trunk (no scary scenes, please). The event will include treats, games, and free food. Trophy awards to the best trunk! Bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank. Register at ww.fbcthurmont.org. For more information, view the advertisement on page 45.


Seton Center 55th Anniversary Sale

Seton Center in Emmitsburg is celebrating its 55th Anniversary with a surprise sale on Friday, November 1. The first 55 community members will receive a free cupcake! The store is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. In addition, Holiday Helping Hands Program applications will be open October 21 through November 6. View the advertisement on page 50 for more details.

Halloween Dance Party and Costume Contest

AMVETS #7 in Thurmont is hosting a Halloween Party and Costume Contest on October 26, from 7:00-11:00 p.m. The event is open to the public and will feature music by DJ Fire. Raffle and 50/50 tickets will be available for purchase. The kitchen will be open until 8:00 p.m., with light fare provided after. View the advertisement on page 49 for more details.


Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company Bingo

Mark your calendar for the next Bingo at the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company in Rocky Ridge on Saturday, November 9. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., with games starting at 7:00 p.m. Make sure you come hungry! Food is available for purchase. View the advertisement on page 49 for more details.


Self-Defense Classes (Over Age 40)

Thurmont United Methodist Church (UMC) holds Self-Defense Classes each Thursday at 8:30 a.m. View the advertisement on page 22 for more information.


Bag & Cash Bingo

Mark your calendar for Vigilant Hose Company’s Bag & Cash Bingo on Sunday, November 10, at the Activities Building on Creamery Road in Emmitsburg. Doors open at 11:00 a.m., with games at 1:00 p.m. $25.00 per ticket. Food, beer, and wine for sale. View the advertisement on page 20 for ticket information.


48th Sabillasville Mountain Festival

Bring the whole family out for this year’s 48th Annual Sabillasville Mountain Festival on Saturday, October 12, from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., and Sunday, October 13, from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., at the Sabillasville Environmental School on Sabillasville Road. Admission is free! Enjoy local vendors, demonstrations, food trucks, music, fun for kids, a Car Show (October 12 at 11:00 a.m.), an Antique Tractor Show (both days), and so much more! View the advertisement on page 23 for more information.


Estate Yard Sale

You won’t want to miss this Estate Yard Sale on October 10, 11, and 12, at 3 Ironmaster Court in Thurmont, starting at 8:00 a.m.! Browse through jewelry (all types), crafts, ceramics, and Christmas decorations. View the advertisement on page 27.

A Labyrinth and Soul Collage

Join Pastor Jule Brigham on Saturday, November 2, from 10:00 a.m.-noon, for a Labyrinth and Soul Collage. This is a free event. Bring copies of family photos for the Soul Collage. View the advertisement on page 55 for more details.


Ridgefest

Stop by the Rocky Ridge Park for Ridgefest on October 11-12, from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., and October 13, from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Enjoy soups, sandwiches, pies, and breakfast sandwiches. Apple Butter is for sale ($5.00/pint). Flea market vendors will also be set up. Call Jeff Sharrer for a space at 301-447-6387. All proceeds benefit the Mt. Tabor Church. View the advertisement on page 55 for more details.


Frederick County Parks & Rec October Program

Sign-up for Frederick County Parks & Rec programs, including history and agricultural programs, art clinics, preschool sports, adult volleyball, gymnastics, and storytime for kids. For details, visit www. recreater.com and view the advertisement on page 39.


Catoctin Gas & Steam Engine Show

Join the Wolfsville Ruritan Club for its 51st Annual Catcotin Gas & Steam Engine Show on October 5-6, from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., at the Wolfsville Ruritan Community Park. The show will include gas & steam engines, tractors, and antique cars. Food will also be served, including breakfast (7:00-10:00 a.m.) and lunch (10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.). View the advertisement on page 30 for more information.


Thurmont Lions Club’s Cash Bingo

Want to win some cash playing Bingo? Mark your calendars for Thurmont Lions Club’s Cash Bingo event on November 9 at the Guardian Hose Activities Building on E. Main Street in Thurmont. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., with games at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.00 per person (includes 20 games and 3 specials). Event also features King Tut, tip jar, specials, raffles, and more! View the advertisement on page 20 for information on how to reserve your tickets today!

Tom’s Creek UMC “Mulch” Fundraiser

Tom’s Creek UMC in Emmitsburg is holding a “Mulch” Fundraiser: $5.00 per 3-cubic-ft. bag Brown Hardwood Mulch or $4.00/20 bags or more. Orders can be picked up at the Baughman Farm, located at 12120 Harney Road in Taneytown. Contact Curtis Baughman at 443-336-5269 to order mulch or if you have any questions. The mulch can be delivered to you for a goodwill donation. View the advertisement on page 49 for more information.

Slippery Pot Pie & County Ham Sandwiches

Lewistown United Methodist Church in Thurmont will once again be selling Slippery Pot Pie ($8.00 per quart) and Country Ham Sandwiches ($5.00/each). Place orders by Saturday, November 2, by calling 301-606-7873. Pickup will be Saturday, November 9, from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.View the advertisement on page 31 for more information.


Harriet Chapel’s Fall Fest & Giant Yard Sale

Come out for Harriet Chapel’s not-to-be-missed Fall Fest & Giant Yard Sale on October 10-12, from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.! Enjoy wonderful food, a bake table, and great items at great prices. View the advertisement on page 57 for more information.


Veteran’s Day Celebration

Save the date for the Veteran’s Day service, hosted by Trinity United Church of Christ in Thurmont, on November 10. The patriotic music by The Solid Ground Band from Ft. Detrick will begin with music at 10:00 a.m. The service will start at 10:15 a.m. The service will include guest speaker retired Navy Chaplain Dale Williams. View the advertisement on page 54.


Coach Bag & Money Bingo

The Thurmont Ambulance Company is holding a Coach Bag and Money Bingo on Sunday, October 27, at the Thurmont Event Complex. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. Bingo starts at 1:00 p.m. Cost is $25.00 per person. Ticket includes 28 games, including a half-time game of $500 and a final game of $1,000. Purchase tickets at eventbrite.com or call Tammy at 717-420-0209. View the advertisement on page 39 for more information.


Graceham Moravian Church’s Yard Sale

Don’t miss the Yard Sale at Graceham Moravian Church in Thurmont on October 10, 11, and 12, from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Enjoy great food on Friday, October 11, from 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.; and Friday, October 12, from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Choose from fried oyster sandwiches, hot dogs, hot beef, ham sandwiches, chicken salad, soups, and baked items! View the advertisement on page 45 for more information.


Weller UMC Yard Sale

Stop by Weller UMC in Thurmont for its Yard Sale on October 9 and 10, from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Browse lots of different items! The event will take place rain or shine. View the advertisement on page 32 for more information.


Fall Party of Parties

Shop for the holidays at St. John Lutheran Church’s Fall Party of Parties on Saturday, October 26, from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., in Thurmont. Light refreshments will be provided! View the advertisement on page 51.


New Year’s Eve Bingo

The Thurmont Ambulance Company will once again hold its New Year’s Eve Bingo on December 31, featuring over $17,000 in prices! The doors open at 5:00 p.m., and games begin at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $50.00 each if purchased in advance or $60.00 at the door. Ticket includes a dinner platter. For more information, view the advertisement on page 55.


Weller UMC Fall Festival

On Sunday, October 27, Thurmont United Methodist Church (UMC) will host a Fall Festival, starting with a combined worship service at 9:30 a.m., followed by a light lunch at 11:00 a.m., costume judging, and trunk or treat. All are welcome! View the advertisement on page 32 for more information.


Whole Country Hams for Sale

Trinity UCC is selling whole country hams. Call the church to place an order at 301-271-2305. View the advertisement on page 58.


St. John’s Lutheran Church’s Huge Yard Sale

Browse the huge yard sale at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Thurmont on October 10-12, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Get great bargains and help the church! View the advertisement on page 59 for more information.


Ridgefest Food Sales

Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company’s Ridgefest Food Sales will be on October 12 and 13, from 6:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Don’t miss their breakfast sandwiches or famous fried ham sandwiches! Fries and drinks are also available. Yard Sale spots are still available. View the advertisement on page 18 for more information.

About the Cover

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A Family Tradition

Burrier Becomes FFA State Officer

Alisha Yocum

For Ella Burrier, agriculture has always been a way of life. From the age of eight, she was actively involved in 4-H, where she raised rabbits and turkeys and took part in various craft projects. So, when she began her freshman year at Catoctin High School (CHS), it was only natural for her to join the Future Farmers of America (FFA), a student organization that fosters interest in agriculture and leadership.

Burrier’s deep connection to agriculture and FFA runs in the family (pictured above). Her parents, Tatiana and Seth, were both FFA members, making her involvement a continuation of a cherished family tradition.

“It’s just what our family does,” Burrier said, reflecting on the important role FFA has played in shaping her and her family’s life.

After graduating from CHS in May, Burrier is taking her passion to the next level as she steps into a leadership role as Maryland State FFA Vice President. She applied for a state officer position back in the spring. Once her application was reviewed, she went before a 10-person panel to complete an interview process, and she had to develop and present a workshop. A total of six offices were up for grabs. Although applicants don’t apply for a specific office, Burrier was selected by the panel to serve as vice president for the next year.

Burrier is the fourth person in her family to serve as an FFA Maryland State Officer. Burrier’s mom and two aunts were selected as Maryland State Officers upon graduating high school.

Burrier has already hit the ground running after being installed at the 96th Maryland FFA State Convention in June. In her role as Maryland State Vice President, Burrier spends her time promoting agriculture around the state by attending Maryland FFA Chapter events and talking to agriculture businesses.

“I have already learned so much about Maryland agriculture, and I am proud to be representing our small town,” expressed Burrier.

You will also find Burrier at upcoming local agriculture events, including the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show and the Great Frederick Fair. At the Fair, she will be a part of the Frederick County FFA Greenhand and Character Counts Ceremony, highlighting first-year FFA members and FFA members with outstanding character, as well as educating youth in the City Street Country Roads building throughout the week.

When asked what advice Burrier would give to those considering joining FFA, she replied, “I highly recommend getting involved and getting involved in competitions and, most importantly, be yourself—authenticity is a huge part of FFA.”

Ella Burrier, Maryland FFA State Vice President, sits on her grandfather’s 1952 Super M farm tractor. Cover Photo Credit: Brittany Thomas Photography

Ella Burrier, 2024-2025 State Vice President

Tatiana Smith, 1996-1997 State Reporter

Hope Burrier, 1994-1995 State Sentinel

Meaghan Smith, 1989-1990 State Chaplain

FFA State Officers tour Arlington National Cemetery.

Ella with the National FFA President Amara Jackson.

The Burrier Family at the Great Frederick Fair with their rabbits.

Town Hall Reports

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by James Rada, Jr.

Thurmont

Public Hearing on Water and Sewer Rates

The Town of Thurmont held a public hearing on the new proposed water and sewer rates for Fiscal Year 2025, which may be increased by 15 percent at all usage levels. The rates were last raised in 2012, and costs since that time have risen dramatically. Few people spoke about the rate hike, and those that did tended to ask for clarification on various aspects.

Frank Bentz Pond Project

The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners were given an update on how the dam removal at the Frank Bentz Pond is progressing. The project is out for bids with a start date expected for spring 2025. Once started, the project is expected to take 12-18 months, depending on the weather.

Once complete, the flood plain in the area is expected to shrink, which means that there should be less of a chance of flooding in the area. Residents in attendance seemed skeptical of the claim, but there is little they can do but wait and see what happens when the project is complete.

Electric Substation Project Update

The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners approved a bid of $494,447 from Westco ABB to replace the circuit breakers at the electric substation on Moser Road. This is the first step in a $2.3 million project to renovate the substation.

ARPA Funds Reassigned

The Thurmont Mayor and Commissioners used ARPA funds left over from a Thurmont Little League project to approve the purchase of a lawn tractor for Catoctin Recreation League Softball to use for field dragging. The used tractor will be purchased from Harrington and Sons in Emmitsburg for $3,500.

In addition, the mayor and commissioners also approved $3,571 from the funds to be used to improve the sound system used for town meetings.

Emmitsburg
Sports Fee Help

Emmitsburg Mayor Frank Davis said during a town meeting that he is hoping to create a joint program with Thurmont to help Catoctin High School students afford the sports registration fee that the Frederick County School System charges. The fee is $185 for a single sport in a season, plus $148 for dual sports in a season. This would be a total of $333 for a student playing two sports in a season. The cost creates hardships for some families of student-athletes, and Davis would like to find a way to help them.

Election Judges Approved

The Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners approved the town election judges for the town election on Oct. 8. The judges are:

•  Chief Judge — Lynn Orndorff

•  Judge — Melissa Mckenney

•  Judge — Mark Long

•  Greeter/Alternate Judge — Charolette Mazaleski

They all have prior experience as election judges for the town. They will run the polls at the Old Town Office at 22 East Main Street from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.

Charging Stations

Currently, the charging stations for electric cars that are located behind the town office can only be used until 10:00 p.m. Because of the growing number of electric cars in town, the town is seeking a change in legislation so that the stations can be used for a longer period of time.

Shed Approved

The Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners voted to allow the Catoctin Mountain Futbol Club, a new soccer league in Emmitsburg for children ages 3 to 14, to build an equipment storage shed on town property in the E. Eugene Myers Community Park. The club is building the shed with donated materials and time and will maintain it. The club already has about 60 children signed up to play this fall season.

From the Mayor

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Thurmont

Mayor John Kinnaird

It is hard to believe that summer has almost come to an end. A sure sign that fall is coming soon is when school is back in session. Chief Armstrong and I had the privilege of attending the first day of school flag ceremony at the Thurmont Elementary School. It is always heartwarming to see all the students lined up in front of the school and to hear them recite the Pledge of Allegiance as the flag is raised high over the school. As usual, Principal Karl Williams asked if I had any words of wisdom to share with the students. I told the students that Thurmont Elementary (TES) is an amazing school and that I first went there in 1960. I have fond memories of my teachers and staff at TES, as I am sure today’s students will have as they grow up. I want to thank all the teachers, administrators, staff, classroom assistants, custodial staff, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, crossing guards, and others who work together to give our children a wonderful education, a strong sense of community, and the ability to work and interact with others. These experiences will serve all our children well as they go through life, and I am confident that our future will be in good hands.

The North Church Street project is nearing completion. This project has seen the replacement of old water and wastewater lines, new lateral connections and cleanouts, and new water service connections for residents on North Church Street. Several old sections of the lines have been removed, and obsolete infrastructure has been replaced. Currently, the contractor has been finishing the repairs to the sidewalks, curbs, and gutter pans. The final step in the project will be milling and repaving the roadway surface. This final piece of the puzzle will be completed by the State Highway Administration. This project has been a long and involved process and has caused inconveniences to residents and those utilizing the roadway. The project will be completed within the anticipated time frame. I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this complicated process.

The Thurmont and Emmitsburg Community Show will be held on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 6-8. This will be the 68th Annual Community Show! I invite everyone to attend this year’s Community Show to experience a true agricultural community event. There will be livestock displays by the Catoctin High School chapter of the FFA, local 4-H groups, and our local grange. There also will be displays and judging of a wide array of crafts, baked goods, arts, fruits and vegetables, children’s crafts and arts, photography, knitting and sewing, modeling, local businesses, social organizations, and many others. Book lovers will want to visit the Friends of the Thurmont Library Book Sale in the small gymnasium, and everyone will enjoy the delicious food available. If you have never been to the Community Show or if you are new to the area, be sure to join us at one of the best community events of the year!

The tennis court replacement is progressing and will be completed before Colorfest. The surface has been removed and foundations for new light towers are being installed now, and the new surface and new fencing will follow.

Just a reminder to be watchful in the mornings and evenings, as children are going to or coming home from school. Also, be alert for school buses stopping to pick up or drop off children. You can not pass school buses when the red warning lights are flashing. Slow down, be watchful, and let’s all work together to ensure our children’s safety!

Questions, comments, or concerns? I can be reached at 301-606-9458 or by email at jkinnaird@thurmont.com.

Emmitsburg

Mayor Frank Davis

Summer has flown by, school is back in session, fall sports are kicking off, and fall activities are just around the corner. Please make sure to visit the town website and sign up for the My-Emmitsburg phone app to stay up to date on all the events.

We are lucky to be in Northern Frederick County, surrounded by so many great communities in both Maryland and Pennsylvania. Having great partnerships with neighboring towns makes managing our municipality so much easier. Thank you to all our neighbors.

I want to give you a quick brief on the projects that are kicking off around town.

    The DePaul Street water line replacement started on August 6 and will be completed in April 2025.

    Construction of the sewer lift station on Creamery Road is on schedule and will be completed in December 2024.

    Notice to proceed with the new parking lot at Rainbow Lake has been granted and will be completed in November 2024.

    The construction of the new water clarifier treatment plant is in the beginning stages and is scheduled to be completed in October 2025.

    Construction of the new restroom/concession stand in E. Eugene Myers Memorial Park is underway and will be completed in December 2024.

    The multi-use trail improvement project contract was awarded on August 1 and will be completed in April 2025.

If you have any questions or would like more information on any of our projects, please contact the town office.

The commissioners have scheduled a workshop to review and discuss water rates, tap fees, and impact fees. The workshop will be held on September 24, starting at 7:00 p.m.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns regarding the town, please let me know. If you would like to meet in person, just give the office a call at 301-600-6300 to set up a time convenient for you to meet.

Woodsboro

Burgess Heath Barnes

Greetings! I hope everyone has a good Labor Day weekend. I am not a fan of this holiday as it means summer is ending, but it also means the beginning of cooler temperatures and fall adventures for all to enjoy.

This month was quiet, and there is not a lot to update. At our August 12th meeting, we discussed that, unfortunately, we could not get a grant to have the pond in the park dredged. We will continue to look at options to get it corrected. We also discussed that a company has reached out in the interest of being the town’s new water and sewage operator, as our current operator’s last day was August 31. 

As far as the town hall update, which I know seems to be going on and on, things are happening. The loan was signed, and we are almost through the permitting process. In addition, the brick, shingle, and shutter colors were all picked out, and we are excited about that as we are getting closer and closer every day to breaking ground.

Believe it or not, Woodsboro Days is next month. Look for the advertisement here in The Catoctin Banner in this issue on page 11 and the October issue. It will be held on October 19 this year, and the plans are for it to be even bigger and better than ever. If you would like to be a vendor, please reach out me at hbarnes@woodsboro.org or 301-401-7164.

As always, I encourage everyone to support Glade Valley Community Services (GVCS) if you have clothes or food donations, as they are always in need of items for members of the community. For more information, please contact GVCS by email at gvcs.inc@verizon.net or by calling 301-845-0213.

If you have any questions, concerns, complaints, or compliments, please feel free to reach out to me at hbarnes@woodsboro.org or by phone at 301-401-7164.

Woodsboro town meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. In addition, Planning and Zoning (P&Z) meetings are at 6:00 p.m. on the first Monday of the month, as needed. If you have an item fo r the agenda, it needs to be submitted 14 days before the P&Z meeting. The current location for meetings is the St. Johns United Church of Christ, located at 8 N. 2nd Street, Woodsboro, MD 21798. The public is always invited to attend.

Labor Day — Not Just Another Day Off Work

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by Mitchell Tester, College Student

We all think of Labor Day as getting a day off work on the first Monday of September every year, but what does it really mean?

The first Labor Day occurred on September 5, 1882, in New York City. On that day, 10,000 workers took unpaid time to march from City Hall to Union Square, starting the tradition of Labor Day parades. This was done to celebrate the achievements of American workers and their ability to strive for greatness and hard work. Although the first technical celebration of Labor Day was in 1882 in New York City, it was actually Oregon that became the first state to recognize Labor Day. In 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed it into law as a federal holiday. 

It is an interesting tale as to who first proposed the holiday for workers. Although, two men are most likely responsible for the founder of Labor Day.

The first man, Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and co-founder of American Federation of Labor, was said to suggest that we should have a day for celebrating the laboring class and to honor those “who from rude nature have delved and carved all the grandeur we behold.” (dol.gov).

Recent research, though, leads us to the idea that a man by the name of Matthew Maguire, secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists, proposed the idea for the holiday in 1882 as the secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York.

At any rate, though, no matter who we have to thank for the national holiday, we should all learn to respect and appreciate the working class of America, not only on Labor Day but every day, for it is the working class who built America.

Maryland on Stamps…

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Antietam,2012
Richard D. L. Fulton

Such a storm of balls I never conceived it possible for men to live through. Shot and shell shrieking and crashing, canister and bullets whistling and hissing most fiend-like through the air until you could almost see them…

                                          – Lt. Col A.S. Pendleton, CSA

On April 24, 2012, the United States Postal Service issued a Forever Stamp commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the September 17, 1862, Battle of Antietam, which occurred among the fields and hills around Sharpsburg during the American Civil War.

The stamps were issued as part of a series of stamps commemorating the 150th anniversary of the 1861-1865 Civil War. 

The Antietam stamp was issued along with the stamp commemorating the 1862 Battle of New Orleans. A sheet of stamps consisted of four Antietam and four New Orleans stamps (issuing different stamps attached to each other in a single sheet is referred to as se-tenant).

Antietam First Day of Issue covers can be found postmarked by the New Orleans Post Office (by virtue of being issued at the same time as the se-tenant New Orleans stamps) and by the Sharpsburg Post Office.

Confederate Maryland

Amid the secession of the Southern states as the nation stood on the brink of a civil war, a significant number of Marylanders had launched an effort to join the rapidly assimilating Confederate States of America.

It’s probably safe to state that the population of Maryland was deeply divided on the issue, with perhaps a third of the populace supporting the secession movement, a third rabidly against secession, and a third that wanted nothing whatsoever to do with either side, and simply desired to remain neutral.

Sensing the possibility that Maryland legislature might vote to join the Confederacy, President Abraham Lincoln dispatched agents into Maryland to track down and arrest any legislators who were found to be considering voting for secession.

In addition, the President sent federal troops to occupy Baltimore and Annapolis.  Due to the federal occupation of the Maryland capital, the legislature was relocated to Frederick, resulting in Frederick having become the capitol of Maryland until the pro-secession legislators rescinded the effort to secede.

Although the secession effort failed, more than 20,000 Marylanders left the state and joined the Confederate Army.

The Road to Antietam

Confederate General Robert E. Lee, who commanded the Army of Northern Virginia, led his army north, beginning on September 4, 1862, ultimately colliding with the Union Army of the Potomac, commanded by General George B. McClellan, in and around Sharpsburg on September 17.

The Army of Northern Virginia consisted of more than 100,000 troops, while the Army of the Potomac consisted of some 50,000 troops (13,000 Union troops had already been captured in Harper’s Ferry two days before the engagement at Sharpsburg),

So why did Lee march into Maryland?

One of the primary reasons given was to take the war into the north in the hopes of convincing the Northern population of the futility of continuing the war. But another motive was inspired by the 20,000 Marylanders who had already joined the Confederate Army—that being the possibility that if the Confederates crossed into Maryland, countless additional Marylanders might have joined their numbers.

On September 17, the two opposing Armies collided around Sharpsburg, resulting in the bloodiest one-day battle of the “War of Rebellion.” 

Before the September 18 withdrawal of the Confederate forces, the Confederates had suffered more than 28,000 casualties (of which 2,783 were killed), and the Union Army had sustained more than 16,000 casualties (of which more than 3,800 were killed).”

Although the battle ended Lee’s first invasion of the north, the outcome of the battle by most writers was/is considered as having been a tactical draw. 

Some “historians” have claimed it was a Union victory, but Lincoln himself simply called the battle the “closest thing to a victory” that the Union Army had thus far experienced.

Lee also did not see any significant increase in Maryland recruits as having been a direct result of the Maryland campaign.

Sept. 12, 2012 Antietam First Day of Issue cover.

Businesses Past…

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by Richard D. L. Fulton

The Distelfink Drive-In

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In December 1962, Sandoe and Reinecker married.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Honest Work, Quality Service

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Brady’s Auto & Truck Solutions Now Open in Sabillasville

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Brady Family poses outside their new business.

BusinessBriefs

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Thurmont New Business and Development Briefs

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

Subdivisions

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

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

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

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

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

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

* No activity on Oak Forest Concept Plan

Site Plans

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

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

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

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

Emmitsburg New Business and Development Briefs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming

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

Western Maryland Railroad Tragedy at High Bridges

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Submitted by Joan Bittner Fry

On my way home from Thurmont today, I drove under the railroad bridges (High Bridges). The train “ran over” me twice. I was reminded of the stories I’d read and heard about of the head-on collision over High Bridges in 1915 (119 years ago). At that time, the bridges were wooden. Here is the story, excerpted from Chapter 15 of George Wireman’s book Gateway to the Mountains, published in 1969.  –Joan Fry

Story from Gateway to the Mountains

“The tragic train wreck occurred on June 25, 1915, involving the Blue Mountain Express and a mail train near Thurmont, Maryland. The two trains collided head-on, causing significant damage and casualties. Mrs. W. C. Chipchase and her son, Walter, were among the victims. They were in the baggage car that fell into a ravine due to the collision. Unfortunately, Mrs. Chipchase died in the collision, and Walter succumbed to his injuries later that night.

This accident was a result of a mix-up in right-of-way orders, which led to the tragic collision.

On June 25, 1915, the famous Blue Mountain Express met a mail train from Hagerstown in a head-on crash on High Bridge just west of Thurmont, killing six persons and injuring several others. Fifty-two years (since 1969) have passed since this wreck, but there are a number of local citizens still living that recall the wreck and its effect on the community. One of these is Charles W. Eyler, who was only 17 years old at the time. His account of the wreck follows:

Charles W. Eyler Recalled

“I was 17 years old at the time, and had a paper route in town with a friend, Earl Rout, now of Biglerville. We would meet the Western Maryland’s Blue Mountain Express every afternoon about 5:10, get the Baltimore papers from the baggage men and deliver them before supper.

The express, known to the railroad and the townspeople as No. 11, was a crack passenger train, rarely off schedule. On the afternoon of June 25, however, it was off. Earl and I waited around the station for twenty minutes and finally heard its whistle coming up the line.

It pulled in and we asked the fireman, Fred Hayes, what had happened. He said that they had had a hotbox which they had repacked at Union Bridge. The one-legged baggage man, Luther Hall, was complaining that he would be late getting home to supper in Hagerstown.

Earl and I got our papers and walked around the engine toward town. Sometimes we waited until it had finished taking on water and pulled out, but we were late ourselves and wanted to get the papers delivered. This afternoon the conductor would have to get new orders from Hagerstown, telling him which siding to use to let the eastbound mail train pass. Much of the line through the mountains was single track.

We heard the train pull out from the station as we were almost finished making our rounds, and about five minutes later we heard the whistle blow again. But this time it didn’t stop blowing, and we knew right away that something was wrong. We got rid of the rest of our papers in a hurry and took off up the track, half running.

We got almost to the bridge over Owens Creek, about two miles west of town, when we met the flagman running back down the line. He told us the express had crashed head-on into the mail train right on the bridge, and that some people had been killed. A terrible sight met us when we got to the bridge.

The two engines were locked together with their front sections telescoped. They must have met with a terrific impact. How they stayed on the bridge, nobody could understand, but that surely prevented further loss of life. Coals were falling from one of the boilers and for a time threatened to set fire to the wooden structure of the bridge. The whistle on one of the engines had stuck in an open position and kept blowing until all of the steam was gone.

The wooden baggage car of the express was lying down in the ravine 100 feet below, completely smashed. The heavy steel Pullman behind it had been thrown forward by the sudden stop, crushing both the baggage car and the engine’s tender, knocking them off of the bridge. The Pullman fell half off the bridge.

Most of the passengers had come out of the cars by the time we arrived and some were trying to help those trapped in the wreckage in the ravine. Besides the baggage man, a Baltimore woman, Mrs. Edwin Chipchase, and her son had been riding in the baggage car. She was an invalid and had to lie on a cot while she traveled, which is why she was not riding in the Pullman.

Also dead were Luther Hall, who had been worrying about being late for supper, and the fireman we had talked to at the station. The engineer, Frank Snyder, had been thrown out on the locomotive’s running board and had both legs broken.

Both the engineer and the fireman of No. 10, the mail train, were dead. The engineer, Coleman Cook, was from Baltimore. He had been thrown down to the road under the bridge and killed instantly. Both engineers had been close friends and had seen many years of service with the Western Maryland.

Six people died altogether, and twelve were injured. The first rescue parties arrived by car from Thurmont. We helped some of the injured to neighboring homes, where they awaited transportation to the hospital in Hagerstown. Darkness was fast approaching and there was nothing anybody could do for the people in the ravine.”

It might be well to state here that so many people had gathered at the scene of the wreck that work of identifying the dead and injured and locating those who were hurt was quite difficult. Dr. E. C. Kefauver, of Thurmont, the official physician of the Western Maryland at Thurmont, was in charge of the rescue work. Other doctors who assisted in the rescue work were Dr. Victor F. Cullen, Dr. C. L. Wachter, both of Sabillasville, and Dr. Morris A. Birely of Thurmont.

End of George Wireman’s Gateway to the Mountains, Chapter 15, from 1969.

Added by Joan Fry

Funeral services for Fannie B. Chipchase and her 27-year-old son, Walter Nelson Chipchase, were held June 27, 1915, at St. Michael and All Angels’ Church. (Published in The Evening Sun, June 26, 1915.)

Mrs. Chipchase’s will was published July 16, 1915, in The Baltimore Sun. It began with the sentence: “Knowing the uncertainty of human life, I now make this my last will and testament.” To her husband, W. Edwin Chipchase, she bequeathed a dwelling in Washington County, Maryland, for life and then to her children.

Her husband’s obituary from The Baltimore Sun, March 6, 1939, read, in part ‘funeral services for W. Edwin Chipchase, 86, retired commission agent, will be conducted at Christ Protestant Episcopal Church by the Rev. Arthur G.W. Pfaffko of the Church of the Transfiguration, Blue Ridge Summit, PA. It was largely through Mr. Chipchases’s efforts that the Blue Ridge Summit church was erected’.”

High Bridge above Mechanicstown.

Simple Ways to Support Local Businesses and Strengthen Your Community

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In an age where online shopping and big-box retailers dominate the market, local businesses often struggle to stay afloat. Yet, these small enterprises are the heart and soul of our communities, providing unique products, personalized service, and a boost to the local economy. Supporting local businesses isn’t just about making a purchase, it’s about fostering a vibrant and resilient community. Here are four simple ways you can make a big impact by supporting your local businesses.

1. Shop Local Whenever Possible

The most direct way to support local businesses is to prioritize shopping locally. Whether you’re buying groceries, gifts, or everyday essentials, seek out local stores and markets. Small businesses often offer products that are unique, handmade, or sourced locally, giving you a chance to find something special while keeping your money within the community. Every dollar spent at a local business generates significantly more economic activity in the area compared to money spent at a national chain.

2. Spread the Word

Word-of-mouth is one of the most powerful tools for a local business. When you have a positive experience at a local store, restaurant, or service provider, share it with others. Leave a review on social media or popular review sites like Yelp and Google, or simply tell your friends and family. Positive reviews and personal recommendations can drive new customers to local businesses, helping them thrive in a competitive market.

3. Attend Local Events and Markets

Farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and local festivals are not just fun community events; they’re also great opportunities to support local businesses. These events showcase a variety of local vendors, offering everything from fresh produce and handmade crafts to artisanal foods and unique gifts. By attending and purchasing from these vendors, you’re directly contributing to the success of small businesses while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere.

4. Use Social Media to Promote Local Businesses

Social media is a powerful tool that can significantly boost the visibility of local businesses. Follow your favorite local shops, restaurants, and service providers on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Engage with their posts, share their content, and tag them in your photos when you visit. This not only shows your support but also helps these businesses reach a wider audience, attracting new customers.

Maryland’s Coyotes and Coywolves

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Richard D. L. Fulton

Coyotes were first reported in Maryland in 1972, and have spread throughout the state, while coywolves (wolf and coyote hybrids) seem to have concentrated in the Chesapeake Bay areas.

Coyotes were once considered endemic to the “Wild West,” often playing the role of those menacing, howling inhabitants among the shadows of the night.

But something happened that caused the western coyotes to eventually migrate east, inhabiting every state on the East Coast—Maryland and Delaware being the last two states to experience the arrival of the furry invaders.

The Coyote Invasion

In Maryland, the first reports of the presence of coyotes were made in Cecil, Frederick, and Washington counties in 1972, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Coyotes were generally concentrated west of the Mississippi, but “Alterations and/or elimination of competing predators during the post-European colonization period facilitated rapid range expansion into eastern North America,” the DNR reported.

In other words, humans set the stage for the coyote invasion of the East Coast by eliminating, through hunting or just plain shooting (to protect livestock, etc.), a significant number of coyotes’ natural enemies: mountain lions, wolves, foxes, black bears, weasels, badgers, wolverines, and even eagles.

 So what is a coyote? The species name for the coyote is Canis latrans). In addition to coyote, they are also called prairie wolf (so dubbed by 19th century explorers, Lewis and Clark), brush wolf, American jackal, and “in many western states, they are referred to simply as dogs,” according to the National Park Service NPS).

Generally, the coyotes have the general appearance of a German Shepherd, with a shoulder height of 18 to 23 inches, a length of 4 feet or more, and a weight of 20 to 35 pounds.

Generally, coyotes are pack animals. If there are coyotes around where a resident lives, one might have heard their distinctive howl as they communicate with one another. They also travel in packs of five-to-six adults. However, the NPS notes that packs can actually have as many as 10 adults or more.

Coyotes are basically omnivores, meaning they will eat plants and animals, but they are principally carnivores. It has been said that if a person notes a decline in foxes and outdoor pets, it could likely be that there is one or more coyotes prowling the neighborhood.

As far as the occurrences of the coyotes in Maryland, the DNR stated, “In Maryland, coyotes occupy most of the state’s habitat types, with the highest densities occurring in intermixed woodland and farmland areas… (with the) highest densities (numbers of coyotes present) in Western Maryland and the lowest densities on the Eastern Shore.”

Now For the Coywolves

Maryland has not only been faced with a coyote invasion, but also a new form of coyote has appeared on the scene: the coywolf.

Apparently, coyotes, being a canine, can breed with other types of canines. As a result, some coyotes arriving in Maryland had cross-bred with wolves, as was discovered through DNA analysis. As a result, this new coyote-wolf “breed” has been dubbed as coywolves.

DNA analysis has additionally revealed that some of the coywolves had even cross-bred with common household dogs.

According to the Smithsonian Institute, the average DNA result of a coywolf is 25 percent wolf, 10 percent domestic dog (usually large dogs), and 65 percent coyote.

The wolf DNA found in the coyote was attained by crossbreeding with eastern wolf and/or western wolf, while the presence of domestic dog appears to have been the result of crossbreeding with large dogs, such as Doberman Pinschers and German Shepherds.

It should be noted that some authorities claim that all of Maryland’s coyotes are, in fact,  coywolves, but the issue continues on as a matter of debate.

In general, the coywolf looks very much like the coyote but, on average, is generally “about 55 pounds heavier than pure coyotes, with longer legs, a larger jaw, smaller ears, and a bushier tail,” according to the Smithsonian Institute.

For some reason, the coywolves seem to be more prolific around the Chesapeake Bay area, but this could just be the route of the initial coywolf invasion. Javier Monzon, a genetics researcher at Stony Brook University in New York, reported in an article written by Sadie Dingfelder, and published by timberwolfinformation.org, that the coywolves “are perfectly adapted to the I-95 corridor.”

It also seems that those that have also crossbred with dogs may be less sensitive to vehicular traffic and city noise.

Sharon Levy, in Rise of the coyote: The new top dog (published by nature.com), reported that the coyotes began to arrive in the Washington, D.C., area in 2004, when an encounter occurred between a hiker and her German Shepherd and two suspected coywolves in Rock Creek Park.  Apparently, according to local news coverage, the Shepherd had initially challenged the two coywolves, but then subsequently retreated.

Preparing for a Close Encounter

Coyote and coywolf attacks on humans are extremely rare in Maryland. In fact, only two attacks on humans have ever been recorded in Maryland, one of which occurred in Rockville, and the animal involved was subsequently found to be suffering from rabies.

If one finds themselves in a potential “stare down” with one or more coyotes or coywolves, Harry Spiker with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources told ABC 7 that in order to avoid a conflict, individuals or groups of people should, “Stay upright. Don’t bend down. Never run. Any member of the canine species has a chase reflex, where they will chase something that runs. So, back away, make yourself large, talk in a firm voice. If it continues to approach you, throw rocks or sticks in its direction, continuing to back away. And ultimately, if it would attack, fight back. Don’t play dead.”

Spiker noted, however, that a human encounter with a coyote or coywolf would be “extremely unlikely.”

The most serious concerns would be protecting indoor-outdoor pets and farm animals.

First, one might want to contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to see if there has been any coyote activity in the area of a resident, neighborhood, or farm.  Coywolves seem to be attracted to areas with a high deer population.

The best way to reduce the chance of encounters with indoor-outdoor pets and farm animals is to eliminate some of the attractants (hunting has not proven to be effective since eliminating a pack simply opens the way for a new pack to move in).

Hobbyfarms.com has listed a few means of reducing encounters with coyotes or coywolves, especially around homesteads:

•   Don’t leave bowls of pet food or water outside overnight. 

•   Keep garbage in a sturdy container with a tight-fitting lid.

•   Don’t place garbage cans out at the curb until the morning of your scheduled pickup day.

•   Compost in enclosed bins instead of exposed piles.

•   Clean up around bird feeders.

•   Keep all pets inside at night and watch small dogs while outside, even during daylight hours.

•   Keep cats indoors.

•   Make sure your fences are more than 6 feet high with no gaps at ground level—coyotes are good diggers.

As far as protecting farm animals, farmandanimals.com notes that, “Because coyotes are smart, observant, cautious, and elusive, keeping them away from your crops, pets, and livestock can be very challenging. They learn and adapt fast, so it’s smart to have a varied bag of tricks to use against them.

Farmandanimals.com offers several  recommendations to help protect the farm, including installing tall, strong fencing; using electric fences where possible; and adopting guard animals, such as large herding dogs (Great Pyrenees, Komondor, Anatolian, Akbash), donkeys, and llamas.

For additional tips and more information, visit Farmandanimals.com.

Coyotes do not hibernate and hunt year-round

The Mount Opens Its School of Health Professions in Emmitsburg

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Mount St. Mary’s University is getting a little closer to Emmitsburg. The university is planning to start a physician assistant program in the Daughters of Charity building on South Seton Avenue in Emmitsburg.

“We are developing a premier Physician Assistant (PA) program and recognize the important responsibility of training PAs who are not only committed to delivering the highest quality of care but are also equipped to address their own well-being and pursue long flourishing careers,” Donna Klinger, Executive Director of Communications for Mount St. Mary’s University, wrote in an email.

The School of Health Professions welcomed students this school year. Besides the PA program, which is planned to open in January 2026, the school houses the graduate Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program, which is in its third year, and the Center for Pediatric Behavioral Health, which opens in November. The latter will serve area children and provide clinical hours for ABA students and experiential learning for undergraduate students.

The school uses two floors of the E-wing in the Daughters of Charity building. “In partnership with the Daughters, we are completing a full renovation of the space to create a facility that will house our PA program, a pediatric applied behavior analysis center, and support future expansion into additional healthcare education programs,” Klinger wrote.

The move also strengthens the university’s connection with Emmitsburg by bringing a portion of it into the town limits.

The goal is to have cohorts of 42 students in the school. It is well on its way to achieving that goal through virtual open houses and publicity for the program.

“We also have been fortunate to partner with numerous regional healthcare organizations who share our vision to prepare providers who will champion healthcare equity, compassion, service, and well-being,” Klinger wrote.

A grand opening for the School of Health Professions is being planned for Spring 2025.

Heroes: Here, There, and Everywhere

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Lion Ruth Heaney

Heroes. They are here in the Catoctin High Student Government Association and Unified Generation Club. Together, these clubs hosted an event, netting $5,000 to benefit the Special Olympics of Maryland. 

There are dogs and people who work together to perform heroic acts. One example is Trakr, a German Shepherd, and his handler. Together, they located the last survivor of the 9/11 attack. According to www.firerescue1.com, more than 300 dogs were used in the 9/11 rescue efforts. Toby, a Golden Retriever, kept a Maryland woman from losing consciousness when an apple got lodged in her throat. The American Kennel Association lists Toby as one of the 10 real-life tales of heroic dogs.

Then, there is Anita, a Golden Retriever, who is a Hero Dog to Joe. Joe is a Veteran four-year Marine Corp magazine gunner and a former firefighter in Montgomery County. Anita and Joe came together through Hero Dog, Inc., a Maryland 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Their mission is to improve “…the quality of life of our nation’s heroes …” and to enhance “… the services of community organizations by placing assistance dogs with customized training and lifetime support.” Anita is a hero to Joe. Good days are good, but bad days can also become good days as Anita allows Joe to go out and do the things he wants to do.

Everyone is invited to meet Joe and Anita at the Thurmont Lions Club meeting on September 12. This is a chance to sit back and watch as Joe explains and demonstrates the role of Anita in his life. The special bond between Joe and Anita is heartwarming.

There are other heroes, past and present. There is the first-known female firefighter, Molly Williams, “who took her place with the men on drag-ropes during the blizzard of 1818.” According to www.firerescue1.com, it is a reminder that people from all walks of life—Army Special Forces, Marine and Vietnam Veterans, volunteer firefighters, a WTC maintenance worker, NYPD, a president of a Medical Device company—were heroes on that fateful day.

There are firefighters and other personnel away from their families for unknown periods of time as they battle the Park Fire. It began on July 25, 2024, near Chico, California, and is still affecting lives in four different California counties.

Save September 25th for Chip Jewell, an accomplished man, active in Frederick County fire/rescue service. He served on the command staff for the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. Mr. Jewell will dress in past firefighter’s uniforms and share his knowledge from his 2022 book History of Fire Companies in Frederick County, Maryland. This is an evening for the family.

Both these events are free and open to the public at the St. John’s Lutheran Church, located at 15 N. Main Street in Thurmont.

Come join the fun at 6:30 p.m. Meet Joe, Anita, and Chip Jewell—heroes in Maryland!

The Rocky Ridge 2024 Baby Show Results

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The annual Mt. Tabor Church Big Picnic, Tractor Parade, and Baby Show was held on Saturday, August 10, at Mt. Tabor Park in Rocky Ridge, with lots of sunshine and a great time had by all! A total of 34 babies—12 girls and 22 boys—participated in the show. There were also 18 tractors in the Tractor Parade! The youngest baby was the six-week-old son of Ellie and Davis Crouse of Taneytown. There were no twins or triplets in this year’s Baby Show. Owen Leroy Hourihan, six-month-old son of Ashton and Manley Hourihan, traveled the farthest distance from Germantown.  Babies placed in three categories: prettiest girl, cutest boy, and chubbiest baby, in five age categories (1 day to 24 months old).

There were five babies in the one day to three‐month‐old category. The prettiest girl was Jaycee McAfee, two-month-old daughter of Justin and Kendra McAfee of Rocky Ridge. The cutest boy was Fulton Gsell, two-month‐old son of Lexi and Ben Gsell of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. Felix Masser, two-month-old son of Elise and Brandon Masser of Sabillasville, was named the chubbiest baby. There were five babies in the four- to six-month-old age category.  The prettiest girl was Emersyn Gemmell, six-month-old daughter of Taylor and Nathaniel Gemmell of Fairfield, Pennsylvania. The cutest boy was Dallas Lilly, four‐month‐old son of Katie Lilly of Thurmont. The chubbiest baby was Harper Gregory, four-month-old daughter of Collin and Danielle Gregory of Rocky Ridge.

In the 7-to-12‐month‐old category, there were 16 babies, the largest group of babies for this year’s show. Ember Snedegar, 8‐month‐old daughter of Natalie and Tommy Snedegar of Rocky Ridge, was judged the prettiest girl. The cutest boy was Lincoln Sherman Shuff, 11‐month‐old son of Ryan Shuff and Danielle Golden of Brunswick. Tatum Lee Staub, 9‐month‐old son of Darren Staub and Haley Varner of Thurmont, was named the chubbiest baby. The 13- to 18‐month‐old category had six registered babies. Heidi Jo Orndorff, 15‐month‐old daughter of Alana and Conner Orndorff of Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania, was judged the prettiest girl. The cutest boy was Ford Gebhart of Fairfield, Pennsylvania, 13‐month‐old son of Rachel and David Gebhart. The chubbiest baby was Tyler Domer, 18‐month‐old son of Destiny and Hunter Domer of Rocky Ridge.

In the 19-to-24‐month‐old category, there were only two babies. Ivy Barnhart-Smith, 23-month-old daughter of Lexi Barnhart and Colby Smith of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, was named the prettiest girl. Hayden Myers, 23‐month‐old son of Laci and Steven Myers of Cascade, was named the cutest boy and the chubbiest baby.

Please come out again next year on Saturday, August 9, to Mt. Tabor Park for the annual Baby Show. You may register your baby (or babies) who range in age from 1 day up to 24 months. Watch your local newspaper for more details, including registration time.

New Lions Officers Inducted at Thurmont Lions Club

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The Thurmont Lions Club invited PDG Paul Cannada to induct the new officers for the 2024-2025 Lions Year on June 26.

During the installation, each officer was called up individually and asked if they were willing to perform their official duties during the 2024-2025 Lions year.

Pictured from left are: (front row) Lion Bob Johnson, 2-Year director; Lion Don Keeney, Jr., Tail Twister; Lion Nancy Echard, President; Lion Ruth Heaney, Lion Tamer; (back row) Lion Kim Grimm, 2-Year Director; Beverly Nunemaker, 2-Year Director; Lion Marci Veronie, 3rd Vice President; Susan Favorite, Immediate Past President; Lion Joyce Anthony, Secretary; Lion David Crum, Dues Treasurer; Lion Doug Favorite, Treasurer. Absent from picture is Paul Cannada, LCIF Coordinator and Training Development.

The Thurmont Lions Club meets the second and fourth Wednesdays at St. John Lutheran Church in Thurmont, beginning 6:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Julie El-Taher at 301-788-0855 or www.thurmontlionsclub.com.

CHS and SES Lead the Way in Green Initiatives

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In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, Catoctin High School (CHS) and Sabillasville Environmental School (SES) are making significant strides in promoting environmental consciousness among students and staff. Through innovative programs and community partnerships, both schools are setting the standard for what it means to be a Green School.

In the spring, both schools received green school status from the Maryland Association and Outdoor Education (MAEOE). The schools have to show several things in their application, including environmental curriculum, teacher professional development, the use of sustainable practices, and community partnerships with the intent to teach and foster sustainability.

Both schools currently operate a composting program in their cafeteria. This included purchasing a small refrigerator for unopened cold goods like milk and fruit, which are then made available for later use rather than wasted. Students also help teach their peers what can be placed in the compost bin, what can be recycled, and what is trash. By carefully weighing the trash, recyclables, and compostable materials, students have been able to see firsthand the impact of their efforts, as the amount of waste has decreased over time.

Beyond composting, CHS students are actively involved in local tree planting and invasive species removal projects. Some of these trees have been planted on the school campus, and students regularly monitor their growth. These activities not only beautify the school grounds but also provide valuable educational opportunities.

Looking ahead, Catoctin aims to deepen its collaboration with the Thurmont Green Team, potentially taking on the maintenance of community green spaces along the Trolley Trail.

With SES’s focus on agriculture and environmental education, gardening has become an integral part of the Sabillasville curriculum, with each class creating its own garden that ties into classroom learning. The recent installation of electricity and water in the school’s greenhouse has opened up even more possibilities for hands-on learning in the upcoming year.

Community involvement has been crucial to Sabillasville’s success. The revitalization of the Blue Bird trail, done in partnership with local groups and a Master Naturalist, has provided students with unique opportunities to learn about nature.

In addition to these ongoing initiatives, Sabillasville hosts monthly theme days focused on agriculture and the environment. These events, supported by community volunteers, have included Farm Day, Pollinator Day, and Farm to Table activities. Field trips to explore local ecosystems further enhance students’ understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

Becoming a Green School is no small feat. Brian Brotherton, teacher and advisor to the CHS Conservation Club, estimates he and his students spent about 30 hours completing the green school application. Both Catoctin and Sabillasville have faced challenges along the way, but the rewards have been well worth the effort. Kaitlyn Bartlett, president of CHS’s Conservation Club, emphasized the hard work involved in maintaining their Green School status. “It was not easy to achieve, and it’s a lot of work to maintain, but it is definitely worth it,” she said. “We are very proud of what we are doing, and it’s amazing to see how much work people have put into this.”

Barb Doney, a teacher at SES, echoed this sentiment, noting the support from the community as a crucial factor in their success. “Becoming a Green School was a very rewarding experience. We were able to reach out to our community groups to help us increase our knowledge on being ‘green’. We appreciate the support that was shown to our school during this process,” Doney remarked.

As these schools continue to lead by example, they hope to inspire others to embrace sustainability and take action in their own communities. The future is green, and CHS and SES are helping to pave the way.

Teacher and Conservation Club Advisor Brian Botherton poses with students of the Catoctin high School Conservation Club with their Green School Banner.

Principal Sheena Talley and teacher, Barbara Doney stand with Sabillasville Environmental School’s Green School Banner.

Local Teachers Take Advantage of Professional Development Opportunities

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Over the summer, two teachers at Sabillasville Environmental School took advantage of professional development opportunities to enhance their knowledge in agriculture and history, both of which are areas of focus at the school. From these experiences, both were able to bring ideas back for the classrooms.

Kim Baker

Kim Baker, a third grade teacher, recently participated in the 2024 National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference, themed “Agriculture Elevated.” She was one of two educators in Maryland that received a scholarship to attend from the Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation. This premier professional development event is designed for Pre-K through 12th grade teachers, volunteers, and professionals passionate about agricultural literacy.

Held in the scenic city of Salt Lake City, Utah, the conference provided a unique opportunity for educators to enhance their understanding of agriculture and its vital role in our society. Participants engaged in hands-on workshops, interactive sessions, and valuable networking opportunities, all focused on integrating agricultural concepts into their classrooms. Throughout the conference, Baker explored innovative teaching strategies and resources aimed at promoting agricultural literacy among students. The event featured expert speakers, inspiring presentations, and practical activities that can be implemented in the classroom to help students understand the significance of agriculture in their daily lives.

This experience not only enriched Baker’s professional development but also equipped them with the tools necessary to inspire students and cultivate a greater appreciation for agriculture. With newfound knowledge and resources, Baker is excited to bring these initiatives back to the classroom, empowering students to explore the world of agriculture and its impact on their lives and communities.

Harry Hanna

Harry Hanna, a middle school teacher, recently participated in a weeklong traveling field study led by renowned program director and historical guide Arch Hunter through Founding Forward. This immersive experience took participants through significant Civil War historic sites across Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland, including notable locations such as Manassas, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Spotsylvania, Monocacy, Richmond, Appomattox Court House, Stonewall Jackson House, Antietam, and Harper’s Ferry.

During this extraordinary week, Mr. Hanna explored the very grounds where Civil War soldiers stood over a hundred and seventy years ago. The program provided a thorough examination of pivotal battles, strategic decisions, and the profound impact these events had on the lives of citizens in the surrounding areas. Participants delved into the political context of the war and engaged in group discussions, artifact analysis, and the review of primary source documents. This field study not only enhanced Hanna’s knowledge but also equipped him with valuable resources and insights to share with students, enriching their educational experience and fostering a deeper connection to American history.

Founding Forward, a 501(c)3 nonprofit charity, is the result of a merger between The Union League Legacy Foundation and Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. These two organizations, founded in 1947 and 1949 respectively, united, based on their long-standing partnership and shared values. Together as Founding Forward, they will combine their greatest assets and strengths to become the leading voice and institution in civic education. Sabillasville Environmental School Teachers, Kim Baker and Harry Hanna, take advantage of summer professional development opportunities.