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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 96^th 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.

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.

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 68^th 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 12^th 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 advertisem*nt 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.

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.

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 150^th 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 150^th 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 25^th 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 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.

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, 3^rd 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.

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.

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.

Nine FCPS Career & Technology Center (CTC) students recently placed in the top ten at the 60^th Annual SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta. Considered the largest skill competition in the world, SkillsUSA features more than 6,500 competitors in 115 hands-on skill and leadership contests. Each contestant is a state gold medalist. In this year’s competition, 26 FCPS Career & Technology Center students took part. Finishing in the top 10:

Michael Umana from the CAD engineering program: Silver medal and second nationwide in Technical Drafting.

Benjamin Kimbark from the Collision Repair Program: Bronze medal and third nationwide in the Collision Repair Technology Competition.

Isabella Rogers from the AOHP Nurse Assisting program: Bronze medal and placed third nationwide in the Nurse Assisting competition.

Dianna Solis from the AOHP Nurse Assisting and Medical Assisting programs: Fourth nationwide in the Basic Health Care Skills Competition.

Andrew Winkler from the HVAC-Plumbing program: Fifth nationwide in the Sheet Metal competition.

Amanda Rivera Colon from the AOHP Nurse Assisting and Medical Assisting program: Eighth nationwide in the Health Occupations Professional Portfolio competition.

Joshua Onspaugh, from the Electricity Program, Ariel Tembi from the AOHP Nurse Assisting Program, and Tyler Wilson from the Electricity Program: Ninth nationwide in the Chapter Display competition.

Also recognized for outstanding achievement and representing the state of Maryland were the team of Kaden Aiello and Varsh*th Jatla for Robotics: Urban Search and Rescue, the team of Mishani De Silva, Suvanjal Dhungana, Mathew Garviria Silva, and Alejandro Mendoza Janampa for Entrepreneurship, Shirsho Banerjee for Related Technical Math, Dean Ryder for Plumbing, Declan Brennan for HVAC, Shannon Clarkson for First-Aid/CPR, and the team of Carly Cairns, Arwen Flint, Aiden Petrie, and Zoe Razunguzwa for Health Knowledge Bowl.

The FCPS CTC provides intensive career-specific training to both college-bound and employment-oriented students. In addition to career training, emphasis is also placed on the development of broad, transferrable professional skills that are essential for successful employment.

Students in Grades 10-12 from any Frederick County public high school may apply to attend. Each year, approximately 700 students elect to get a head start on their careers and college experience by enrolling in programs that are taught in half-day blocks. Students attend their home high schools for the remainder of the day.

For more information about the FCPS Career & Tech Center, please contact Principal, Michael.Concepcion@fcps.org; Assistant Principal, Jack.Newkirk@fcps.org; or Chapter Advisor, Lera.Straits@fcps.org at 227-203-3650. For more about the competition, please visit www.skillsusa.org.

FCPS Career & Technology Center participants.

Thurmont’s Potter Pirates Play for Coach at Cooperstown

Alisha Yocum

In 1996, Louis “Coach” Presutti, along with his father and son, visited the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. During the visit, Presutti’s father expressed a wish that every child in America should have the opportunity to play baseball in Cooperstown. This idea resonated with Presutti, and shortly after his father’s passing, he and his wife purchased 156 acres of land to build Cooperstown Dreams Park. The dreams have been coming true for thousands of youth baseball players since it was first built, and recently, 12 players representing Thurmont had their opportunity to play at the prestigious facility.

Unlike many teams that compete at Cooperstown, the Potter Pirates and their families had to fundraise for over a year to make the trip possible. The team was chosen by the late Coach Jeff Potter of Potter Baseball, who was known for traveling across the country to teach youth about baseball and community service. Each year, Potter selected three teams to use his “berth” to Cooperstown, and this year marked the third time he gave young men from the Catoctin area the chance to play at Cooperstown Dreams Park.

Sadly, Coach Potter passed away in late spring after a battle with cancer and was unable to see the team play. However, the team honored him by carrying a banner and wearing shirts that read “Playing for Coach Potter.”

The team arrived on July 31 and quickly settled into their bunkhouse, where they would stay for the week. After unpacking, the excitement grew as pin trading began. With 104 teams from across the country participating, each team brought a unique pin representing their group. Trading pins became a fun and competitive activity throughout the week, with players aiming to collect all 104, including some rare ones.

The baseball festivities kicked off with an opening ceremony at Little Major League Park. The ceremony featured fun activities led by parents, but also emphasized the traditions of baseball. In keeping with Presutti’s vision, players could be suspended for infractions like wearing hats backward or having untucked shirts. The ceremony also highlighted the love for our country and paid respect to our Veterans.

Once the games finally started, the nerves kicked in a little. The facilities were impeccable, and many of our youth may never play on fields this pristine again. The team started out strong with a 13-0 victory over the Brooklyn Park Bulldogs, and then took four losses to teams from California, New York, and Pennsylvania. On Sunday, single elimination bracket play began, and the team played a talented team called the Wayzata Warriors. The Pirates fought hard but lost 4-2, and the Warriors would go on to win through the third round of bracket play.

The week ended with a closing ceremony, where all players, regardless of outcome, receive a ring and are inducted into the American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame.

In their downtime, the team was also able to explore the quaint downtown streets of Cooperstown, which included a visit to the Baseball Hall of Fame. There, players strolled the building, viewing memorabilia and video highlights of some of the greatest players in the game.

Coach Potter always said playing at Cooperstown was not about winning, but it was about the memories, and the Potter Pirates and their families sure left with a lot of those!

Thank you to the following businesses who sponsored the team: Ace Hardware of Thurmont, Steve C. Rehman, Blueprint Robotics, C&R Electric, Catoctin Wildlife Preserve, CB Flooring, CF Kerns Trucking, Clean Air Heating & A/C, Easy Calvery Red House, Frank Jackman, Gateway Automotive, Gulf Group LLC (10Tavern), Harrington & Sons, JB Plumbing & Heating, miscellaneous Metals, Inc., Owings Brothers, Owings Home Services, PJ’s Roofing, SHE excavating, Inc., Specialty Screen & Window, Tim’s Garage, Tyian Lodge 205, WF Delauter. In addition, thank you to Roy Rogers, Bollinger’s Restaurant, and Kountry Kitchen for donating a portion of the proceeds from fundraiser nights for us.

Players from the Potter’s Pirates show off their rings after being inducted into the American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame, a tradition at Cooperstown Dreams Park.

Pictured from left: (back row) Coach Nathan Laird, Eli Yocum, Daniel Genemans, Coach Chad Hahn, Parker Hahn, Camden Atkinson, Kaiden Dewees, Coach Jimmy Holmes, Evan Laird, Holden Holmes, Wesley Meekins. Coach John Veronie, Coach Justus Yocum; (front row) James Clements, Desean Brown, Jeremy Veronie, and Weston Tyler.

Holden Holmes shows all the pins he collected from teams from around the country at Cooperstown Dreams Park.

with Michael Betteridge

If Rodeo Was Easy, They’d Call It Football
My 21-year-old granddaughter, Maida, lives on a farm up in Ortanna, Pennsylvania. She is an accomplished barrel racer, competing often at the Chambersburg Saddle Club. For many years, I coached her brother, Stephen, in Fairfield youth football. My daughter, Corinne, their mother, and her family love two things: horses and football! I’m not sure which one they love more. My daughter grew up around horses and Redskins fanatics. Her mom was an accomplished equestrian rider who loved horses, and I loved football. Do you see a pattern yet?

Corinne had to endure years and years of HTTR (Hail to the Redskins), and when she went away to college, she met a great guy. Well, I thought he was great until I found out he was from Pittsburgh. Now, all my grandchildren are stolen Steelers fans. How could this be? I guess there was some trade-off there since she convinced the guy from Pittsburgh, who knew nothing about horses, to buy a horse farm where they could raise their family.

Recently, at one of Maida’s rodeo competitions, I saw a big, tough-looking kid with a T-shirt on that said: “If Rodeo was easy they’d call it Football.” I pointed it out to my granddaughter, and we laughed. Her brother, my Fairfield senior football-playing grandson, didn’t think it was funny.

Several weeks ago, I attended the opening day practice for the Catoctin Cougars. I was stunned with how big and strong their offensive line looked. Their returning starting center, Hoyt Sayler, weighs 300 pounds! Their returning starting left tackle, Deacon McIlvaine, is 6’4” and 290 pounds. Returning starter left guard, Ethan Robeson, is 255. And, then, I saw Shane Milbourne walk up to the line of scrimmage, the smallest lineman on the team at 6’2” 230. This kid had an air about him that I couldn’t describe. He looked battle-tested…Marine tough…the kid was scary! I asked Coach Rich: “What’s up with that kid?” And he just smiled. Later in his office, Coach told me that this was the best offensive line Catoctin has seen in years.

With four returning starters, a great summer in the weight room, and high football IQs, he was really excited about this season. Then, Coach Rich said something to me that gave me an instant flashback. I asked Coach if he could think of any great stories about his players to share with the fans, and he told me that his right guard, Shane Milbourne, is a rodeo champion. Instantly, that T-shirt flashed in my brain. That explained everything. So, I looked up Shane online and found out that not only is he a rodeo champ, but he won the Central Pennsylvania Youth Rodeo Association’s 14-18-year-old calf-roping championship this summer and placed third in all round points. If that weren’t enough, his brother Wyatt placed second in calf roping and sixth all round in the competition! Wyatt is one of two Catoctin varsity quarterbacks. The Milbourne brothers are an old Garth Brooks song in the flesh: “It’s the ropes and the reins and the joy and the pain” as the lyrics go. After a tough summer of rodeo competition, you finish it off with a grueling fall football season. And you thought you knew tough.

Picture you’re one of Boonsboro’s starting defensive front three, staring into the eyes of a guy who wrestles steers for fun, and he comes at you with his 300-pound Cougar friend, their center. That’s underwear changing time!

The offensive line finishes out with Tyler Boke, Joziah Payne, and Jayden Worthington competing for time. Any football coach will tell you that it always starts and ends with the line. And this one is scary good.

Here’s some advice. Shaymus Stull and Jake Bell, take your offensive line to Golden Corral before the season starts and also every time they win.

Speedster Shaymus Stull is the Catoctin senior starting quarterback. Last year, Shaymus stepped up into the starting position when Haydn Matthews was injured, and he carried the team deep into the third round of the playoffs. Coach Rich plans to capitalize on Shaymus’ speed and quickness, grit, and determination. Stull is a Cougars track star. His backup is quarterback rodeo cowboy, Wyatt Milbourne. That’s a pretty good combo in the backfield. And, speaking of backfields, Jake Bell is bigger, stronger, smarter, and quicker than last year. This is his year. Jake is always smiling. I love this kid! He should be smiling a lot this year from the opponent’s endzone. Tyler McCallion will handle wide receiver duties this year, along with Ben Bingman, Brady Davis, Konnor Dodson, Kendall Jones, Levi Misner, and Urban Moore.

On a difficult note, running back Hunter Bradshaw tore up his knee in lacrosse last spring. He was out on the field for opening football practice in street clothes and is an inspiration to every Cougars football player for what he has been through with his surgery and rehab. He will be greatly missed in the backfield, but not on the sidelines.

Catoctin has a 31-player roster this year. They will find out early how good they are, facing two of the top 1A football teams in the whole state early in the season. Coach made a smart choice to head up to Fort Hill on August 30 to scrimmage the 1A state champion. That will give them a pretty good understanding of where they stand a week before opening day with rival Boonsboro in the first game of the season, followed by the second game of the season against state 1A runner-up Mountain Ridge in Frostburg. That’s a tough way to start any season, but it will bring clarity to the mission.

I have some more advice, this time for new first-year athletic director, Brett Campbell. For that Catoctin home opener against Williamsport on September 20, make sure you have that Garth Brooks song “Rodeo” in your workout mixtape and for all the fans, tighten your “riggin” and plan on covering (that’s cowboy talk….look it up). This is going to be a wild rodeo season.

A serial fiction story for your enjoyment

written by James Rada, Jr.

T h e C a t o c t i n B a n n e r b r i n g s y o u . . .

10: A Night on the Town

Stacy Lawrence had reluctantly allowed her ex-husband, Jack, to stay with her and their son, Peter, in the small cottage on Bobby Hennessey’s farm on Catoctin Mountain.

She felt a twinge of nostalgia as she watched him play with their son, Peter, in the yard. But she made it clear that he would have to earn his keep during his stay. She was more than a bit surprised that he agreed.

She put him to work on the farm. However, she quickly realized that he was putting on an act to get out of work—something he had always been good at. She didn’t let him off easy, though, assigning him the dirtiest tasks like mucking out the horse stalls.

One particular incident had Stacy trying hard not to burst into laughter as she watched Jack step into a pile of manure and then flail around in frustration as he tried to clean his shoe.

As evening approached and Jack finished his chores for the day, he strolled confidently into Stacy’s bedroom wearing nothing but boxers. She shot him a disapproving look and handed him a pillow and blanket. “The couch is your bed,” she told him firmly.

Jack pouted playfully and stretched out his arms, attempting to show off his toned figure. “Don’t trust yourself around me?” he smirked.

“I don’t trust you,” Stacy retorted without missing a beat. “And let me warn you, I sleep with a taser within reach.”

Jack chuckled and shook his head. “Well, can’t blame a guy for trying. How about Petey switches rooms with me?”

“Why should he? This is his room, and he didn’t invite you here.” A glint of annoyance flashed in Stacy’s eyes as she added sarcastically, “Oh wait! You invited yourself.”

Jack stayed up late, watching videos on his phone. The next morning, he dragged himself out of bed, his body heavy and sluggish, despite the strong aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air. The caffeine may have helped others wake up, but for Jack, it was no match for his sleep-deprived state.

Sadly, Jack settled in and even began to put in an honest effort at learning his new job on the farm. And, to Stacy’s surprise—though she would never admit it—it almost felt like a family again with Peter working alongside his father.

Stacy still met with Bobby regularly, discussing her progress and ideas for the small farm. She had started selling eggs locally and had even planted a garden to grow fresh vegetables. It wasn’t bringing in much income, but it was a start, and Bobby never complained.

She couldn’t help but notice that he had been leaving more frequently in the evenings lately, wondering if he had found someone else. But she quickly brushed off the thought—it was none of her business.

Bobby walked into the tavern on East Main Street and was greeted by a round of “Hellos.” He sat down at the bar, and Kevin Poland, the tavern owner, brought him a Cherry Seven-Up. Bobby stayed away from booze. It wasn’t that he was an alcoholic, but drinking stirred up a lot of memories he would rather forget.

“How’s Stacy doing on the farm?” Kevin asked.

“She’s doing great. Works harder than I ever did,” Bobby replied with a hint of pride in his voice.

“Tell her I said hi and I miss her,” Kevin said with a smile.

Bobby nodded and took a sip of his soda before turning around to survey the tavern. The jukebox played modern songs instead of records now, filling the room with music. Locals chatted and laughed at the tables and bar, a few waving at him as he looked around.

As he sat down, Jack caught sight of Bobby across the room. A small smirk formed on his lips as he stood up and walked over to join him. “Didn’t think I’d see you here,” Jack said with a chuckle.

“I could say the same,” Bobby replied coolly.

“I needed to blow off some steam and have some fun. Been working for two weeks straight up on that mountain,” Jack explained, gesturing towards the nearby hills. “Don’t know how you do it on your farm all the time.”

“Obviously, I don’t. I’m here now,” Bobby stated, taking a sip of his soda.

Jack’s grin widened. “Well, let me buy you a drink as thanks for letting me crash at your place. What are you drinking?”

“Cherry Seven-Up,” Bobby answered.

Jack raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Soda? Who comes into a bar for a soda?”

“Someone who enjoys the company of others,” Bobby countered.

“Hey, I like ‘em too,” Jack responded, pointing over to his table. “See that sweet thing over there? Her name’s Tricia.”

“What’s her last name?” Bobby asked out of curiosity.

Jack shrugged nonchalantly. “I don’t know, and I don’t really care.”

“Well, with that red hair, she might be a Gifford. That family has a lot of redheads,” Bobby remarked slyly.

“I don’t give a damn about ancestry,” Jack declared, his eyes firmly fixed on Tricia.

“So, what happened to the woman who dropped you off?” Bobby asked, changing the subject.

“Gwen? She’s back in Gaithersburg,” Jack replied with a dismissive wave of his hand.

“I take it things weren’t too serious between you two, then?” Bobby prodded.

“Serious? You mean sleeping together? Oh, we are, and if I’m lucky tonight, Tricia, whose last name doesn’t matter, and I will be very serious,” Jack stated boldly.

Bobby simply shook his head in response. “What? You disapprove?”

“Not my place to approve or disapprove. I’m just curious about what you and Stacy had in common,” Bobby replied honestly, his eyes narrowed in thought.

Jack snorted at Bobby’s response. “You think she’s such an angel? Let me tell you something about her.”

Bobby’s grip tightened on his glass as he braced for whatever gossip Jack was about to divulge. “Not if you want to stay on my farm,” he warned, his voice low and stern.

Jack shrugged nonchalantly, but there was a hint of mischief in his eyes. “Fine.” He started to walk back to his table, but he turned back to Bobby with a sly smile and said, “Let’s just say that we might need you to watch Petey one night.”

A look of concern crossed over Bobby’s face. He turned back to the bar, suddenly feeling uneasy. The lively atmosphere around him seemed to dull as he ordered himself a beer. So much for his enjoyable evening out.

His mind now filled with worries, doubts, and an image of Stacy and Jack together.

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

Understanding Life Insurance

What You Need To Know

Life insurance is one of those financial tools that you’ve heard of and know you probably need but aren’t sure where to start. It’s easy to put off or ignore, but having the right life insurance policy can make a world of difference for your family in a time of need. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of life insurance, explain the differences between term life insurance and whole life insurance, recommend how much coverage the average family should have, and help you determine whether you even need life insurance.

What Is Life Insurance?

At its core, life insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company. In exchange for regular payments (known as premiums), the insurance company promises to pay a lump sum, called a death benefit, to your beneficiaries if you pass away during the term of the policy. This money can help cover funeral costs, pay off debts, replace lost income, or support your family’s future needs, such as funding your children’s education.

Term Life Insurance vs. Whole Life Insurance

When shopping for life insurance, you’ll likely encounter two main types: term life insurance and whole life insurance. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for making the right choice for your situation.

1. Term Life Insurance

Term life insurance is the simplest and often the most affordable type of life insurance. As the name suggests, this policy covers you for a specific term or period—usually between 10 and 30 years. If you pass away during this period, your beneficiaries receive the death benefit. If you outlive the term, the policy expires, and no benefit is paid.

Pros of Term Life Insurance

Affordability: Term life insurance generally has lower premiums, making it an attractive option for families on a budget.

Simplicity: The policies are straightforward, with no complicated investment components or hidden fees.

Flexibility: You can choose a term that aligns with your financial obligations, such as until your mortgage is paid off or your children are financially independent.

Cons of Term Life Insurance

• Temporary Coverage: Once the term ends, you no longer have coverage unless you renew or purchase a new policy, which can be more expensive as you age.

• No Cash Value: Term life insurance does not accumulate cash value, so if you don’t pass away during the term, you won’t see any return on your premiums.

2. Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance, on the other hand, is a type of permanent life insurance. It covers you for your entire life, as long as you continue to pay the premiums. In addition to the death benefit, whole life insurance includes a savings component, known as the cash value, which grows over time. This cash value can be borrowed against or withdrawn, although doing so may reduce the death benefit.

Pros of Whole Life Insurance

• Lifelong Coverage: As long as you pay your premiums, your beneficiaries will receive a death benefit, regardless of when you pass away.

• Cash Value: The policy accumulates cash value over time, which you can access while you’re still alive.

• Fixed Premiums: Your premium payments generally remain the same throughout the life of the policy.

Cons of Whole Life Insurance

• Higher Cost: Whole life insurance is significantly more expensive than term life insurance. The higher premiums can strain a family’s budget, especially if you’re paying for coverage you don’t really need.

• Complexity: The policies are more complicated, with fees, penalties for withdrawing cash value, and often lower returns on the cash value compared to other investments.

• Overselling as an Investment: Whole life insurance is often marketed as a good investment, but it typically doesn’t deliver the best returns compared to more straightforward investment vehicles.

How Much Life Insurance Does the Average Family Need?

Determining how much life insurance you need depends on your specific circ*mstances. A common rule of thumb is to have coverage that is 7 to 10 times your annual income. For example, if you earn $50,000 per year, you should consider a policy that provides $350,000 to $500,000 in coverage.

However, this is just a starting point. You should also consider:

• Outstanding Debts: Factor in your mortgage, car loans, credit card balances, and other debts that your family would need to pay off.

• Income Replacement: Calculate how many years your family would need to replace your income to maintain their standard of living.

• Future Expenses: Think about future costs, such as college tuition for your children or your spouse’s retirement.

• Funeral Expenses: The average funeral can cost between $7,000 and $10,000, so it’s essential to include this in your calculations.

Who Needs Life Insurance?

Life insurance is not one-size-fits-all, and not everyone needs a policy. Here are some guidelines to help you decide whether life insurance is right for you.

You Need Life Insurance If…

• You Have Dependents: If you have a spouse, children, or other family members who rely on your income, life insurance is crucial to ensure they are financially secure if something happens to you.

• You Have Significant Debt: If you have a mortgage, car loan, or other debts, life insurance can prevent your family from being burdened with these payments.

• You Want to Leave a Legacy: Life insurance can be a way to leave an inheritance or charitable donation, even if you don’t have substantial assets.

You May Not Need Life Insurance If…

• You’re Single with No Dependents: If no one depends on your income and you have enough savings to cover your funeral expenses, life insurance may not be necessary.

• You’re Financially Independent: If your savings, investments, and other assets are sufficient to cover your family’s needs, life insurance may not be essential.

• You’re Retired with a Spouse Who Can Support Themselves: If your spouse has enough income or assets to live comfortably without your financial support, life insurance might not be needed.

Beware of the Sales Pitch

It’s important to be cautious when shopping for life insurance, especially if you’re considering whole life insurance. Insurance agents may push whole life policies because they earn higher commissions on them, but these policies aren’t always the best choice for everyone. The idea of having lifelong coverage and a built-in savings component can sound too good to be true—and, in many cases, it is.

Conclusion

Life insurance is a vital part of financial planning. Understanding the differences between term and whole life insurance, assessing your family’s needs, and making informed decisions can provide peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be protected. Before signing on the dotted line, make sure the policy you choose truly meets your needs—without stretching your budget or buying into promises that don’t deliver.

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.

Rising Water

Along about the second week in January 1996, we had a blizzard that dumped about three feet of snow on us. You could barely tell where the wood was. The boys and I had nearly finished the woodpile and felt pretty good about our industriousness, but the snow was just too deep to do any more cutting. Besides, we had our hands full just digging out.

Despite all the work the snow caused, there was considerable satisfaction in the scenic and acoustic quality of the snow. That much snow swallows all other sounds so well that there’s nothing left but your own labored breath and thoughts.

After a few days, the roads were clear enough to travel and enough paths had been blazed that life was returning to normal. The whole family had spent evenings together shoveling snow off the roofs of the barn and the house, out of the drive and walks. It was a good stretch of “quality time” with the kids. As it turned out, we needn’t have bothered.

During the afternoon of January 18, a weather front with heavy, warm rain moved into the whole snowbound region. The rain fell, melting the snow, and all the water rushed into the creeks and rivers. The following day, I received a call at work from my daughter. She had been released from school early because of the potential for flooding in the area. Her voice was stressed as she described the scene from our kitchen window.

The little creek (Owens Creek) next to us had suddenly grown into a river. It had risen enough to make an island of the covered bridge perched upon its abutments. I left for home immediately.

The drive home was filled with visions of disaster and mayhem. I tried to remember the exact wording of my flood insurance. Then it dawned on me that the cut and spit wood was all stacked less than twenty-five yards from the creek. I had one vision after that: nearly five cords of firewood bobbing along for miles.

I reached home just as the water crested. It was impressive, but not to the point of real danger. The stacks of wood were surrounded by water, but it wasn’t deep enough to move them. A couple of hours later, the water receded.

The evening news showed scenes from all over the region of the destruction and damage. I thought about my fixation on the possible loss of all that wood. It could have all been replaced for less than $600. I felt a little embarrassed by my concern.

However, after thinking about it, I realized that there was something else about the wood that concerned me more. The thought of losing all the time and effort the boys and I had invested really bothered me. Justus and Jacob had worked more like men than the boys they were, and they were proud of their achievements. I was proud of them.

I no longer use the field next to the creek as the wood lot. I’m a little more protective of my investments.

Hoof and Mouth Disease Hits Local Farm

In the fall of 1908, the State of Maryland started killing cattle in Frederick and Carroll counties in an effort to protect residents from falling ill.

Hoof and mouth disease first appeared on H. M. Kneller’s farm in Lineboro, where it was reported that his entire herd was affected. It is an infectious and sometimes fatal disease that attacks cloven-hoofed animals. It causes a high fever that lasts for days and forms blisters in the animal’s mouth and near the hoofs. If the blisters near the hoofs rupture, it may cause lameness.

“The meat of the infected animals, it is said, is not particularly dangerous as food for mankind, although it is by no means fit to eat; but the milk from infected cows is dangerous, and the disease may be spread to human beings through butter or cheese as well,” the Frederick News reported.

The cause of the outbreak was traced to a single cow that arrived among a railcar full of cattle from Buffalo, New York.

“To stamp out this disease, which it is said attacks animals only having cloven hoofs, the U. S. and State officials have taken every precaution, quarantining the farm and entire state,” the Catoctin Clarion reported.

The State of Maryland, in consultation with the federal government, instituted a strict quarantine for the farm. The animals were limited in their movements and even the residents of the farm faced “severe restrictions,” according to the Frederick News. Susceptible animals were not allowed to cross the state lines.

The initial belief was that all the animals on the Kneller Farm would need to be killed. However, as the outbreak seemed to be contained, it was decided that only the cattle and hogs would need to be killed.

This did not sit well among the local farmers, who argued that the animals could recover from the disease. However, the government argued that while that was the case, it would also require that the state stay in quarantine for six months or more until it was certain that all the infected animals had recovered and there were no new cases.

Then, another problem arose, when infected cattle were found on a nearby farm owned by W. L. Wentz. Six of his seven cattle were infected. Because of the nearness of the Kneller Farm, it was initially thought that one of Kneller’s cattle was the cause, but it was determined that another animal on the train from Buffalo, perhaps the same one that infected Kneller’s cattle, had infected Wentz’s.

The government decided to proceed with the killing of Kneller’s infected animals. It had to be delayed, though, because Dr. F. H. Mackie, the state veterinarian, couldn’t find anyone local who was willing to dig the six-foot-deep pit that was needed. The locals did not support the government’s decision to kill all the animals. Mackie had to hire a contractor from Pennsylvania to come in and dig the pit.

Mackie then oversaw the killing and burial of 24 cattle and 52 hogs. About 50 area farmers gathered on the county road that ran next to the farm and about 100 yards from the burial pit, which was about 10 feet by 40 feet and 7 feet deep.

“The killing began at 1 and was finished at 5 o’clock. The hogs were thrown on top of the cattle in the pit and a thick layer of quick lime spread over the carcasses. The hole was filled, then earth being piled up in a mound,” The Baltimore Sun reported.

Although the chickens weren’t killed, they all had to be dipped in a disinfecting solution. The barn, barnyard, and hog pen were also all thoroughly disinfected.

“The Kneller farm will probably be quarantined until every trace of the disease is eradicated by disinfection,” according to The Sun.

The quarantine was eventually lifted near Christmas, just in time for the holidays. The Sun reported, “The effect of the quarantine is especially noticeable in Washington by the scarcity of veal, very little being on the market. What there is available is said to be bringing high prices.”

As we learned last month, the Sun and stars alike are fascinating celestial objects. They produce the energy that allows us to exist, while varying greatly in size while doing so. To understand stars is to understand the lives that they lead. I will be breaking stars into two categories. First, I will lay out the life the Sun will have and stars similar to it, which will be denoted by “M8-.”

This means that any star from 0.8 of the Sun’s mass (has to be larger than 0.8 of the Suns mass; any smaller star dies before it gets the chance to live, becoming a brown dwarf) to eight times the mass of the Sun will be discussed first, denoted by “M8-”. While the big stars are anything that is bigger than eight times the mass of the Sun, which will be denoted by “M8+.” M8+ and M8- stars live much of their lives the same in the beginning phase, although, much later in life is when they differ. Let us discuss the smaller stars, M8-.

M8- stars, such as our Sun, start life as any other star, in an interstellar cloud. This interstellar cloud eventually starts to grow desnser. These dense clumps are usually caused by disturbances in the clouds from neighboring clouds, exploding stars, and other celestial events or objects. Pushing the material close enough till it is caught by neighboring materials’ gravitational pull. To understand it better, I think of how a rolling snowball will continue to collect snow, becoming larger and larger as it rolls down a hill. This gas clump begins to collapse due to the gravitational pull of the collecting material. The dense clump is then turned into a protostar when it grows big enough, beginning to rotate. The protostar then has bipolar outflows, one on each side of the magnetic poles, causing a clearing of most gas and dust around the infant star, which then goes into the T-Tauri phase. A star, like our own, uses its hydrogen to create helium through nuclear fusion. This particular type of nuclear fusion is what makes our star, the Sun, heat the Earth for as long as we are alive. After T-Tauri heats up enough, it starts its longest phase, the same phase our Sun is in, called the Main Sequence. Due to everything in our universe being temporary, an M8- star, like any other star, will run out of its supply hydrogen that is being fused into helium. While the M8- star tries to stay going, it then reaches for anywhere to use up the remaining hydrogen, which is not in the core anymore but in the layer surrounding the core. This causes the distinct bloating of a red giant. The M8- star can become 20 to 100 times bigger than our Sun due to the bloating of its layers. It is so big, in fact, that when this happens to the Sun (which it will in 5 billion or so years), it will reach far out to even Venus, possibly coming close to engulfing Earth. Scientists are actually still not sure if the Earth will be engulfed or if it will orbit dangerously close. No matter what the case, though, it is estimated that life on Earth will absolutely cease to exist in 5 billion years. The core of the red giant is still heating up, more than ever actually. The star is not in hydrostatic equilibrium as it once was in the main sequence phase; its core is now being compressed due to the lack of pressure against gravity, continuing to heat it up. After this, the M8- star then turns into a yellow giant. This is due to the depletion of hydrogen and its fusing of helium to keep it going. After its short yellow giant phase, it turns back into a red giant once more. The core is now reaching even greater temps from the increasing contraction. The red giant finally has no more hydrogen or helium left to fuse, and the star dies.

Due to the continuing contraction of the core, it ejects the outer layers of the star, leaving only what we call a white dwarf behind. In the blast, heavier elements are created such as carbon, which is an essential ingrediant for life. The white dwarf, now in hydrostatic equilibrium once more, is figuratively dead though, as alive as an asteroid in a sense. It is only luminous due to its residual heat from many years of nuclear fusion and past contraction of the core. The ejection of the outer layers creates a planetary nebula. This nebula can spread one light year across, and is the birth place of stars just like the one that just died.

The M8+ star’s life is much shorter due to it using up hydrogen much faster due to its increased temperature. Instead of the long-winded 10-billion-year cycle of the Sun, it spans a couple 100 million years, depending on the mass of the M8+ star, of course.

A M8+ star lives a similar life to any other star. Instead of a T-Tauri phase though, which is for stars of lower mass, high mass stars go through what is called a Herbig Ae/Be (HAeBe) phase.

Another important difference to note is that once a high-mass star leaves its main sequence, it goes straight into a yellow giant, while a M8- star goes from red giant, yellow giant, back to red giant before dying.

The M8+ star goes straight into the fusing of helium because of its increased temperature. After the depletion of its helium, it becomes a red giant, much larger than the red giants of M8- stars. Due to the increasing temperature, the star is able to fuse heavier elements than hydrogen and helium; this process is called nucleosynthesis. This occurs after it runs out of hydrogen and helium. The M8- star counterpart would turn into a white dwarf, surrounded by a planetary nebula, after running out of hydrogen and helium because it is not hot enough to fuse heavier elements, therefore, it dies. The M8+ fusing heavier elements causes it to be hotter and hotter. The core is then contracting more and more due to gravity and lack of hydrostatic equilibrium. The core becomes an iron core, iron being the heaviest element the star can fuse. As the inward contraction of gravity continues, the electrons and protons form a neutron core, and the star will go supernova due to its complete inability to support itself, blasting the heavier elements (and creating even heavier ones in the blast) into interstellar space in a catastrophic explosion.

M8+ on the smaller size will then be formed into a neutron star. This is formed due to the pressure in the core of the M8+ star, so much heat that it squishes electrons and protons into neutrons. Bigger M8+ stars will also go supernova, blasting even heavier elements into space. These larger supernovas form the infamous black holes, celestial objects with so much mass that even the speed of light cannot escape it, light being the fastest thing in the known universe.

As previously stated, planetary nebulas are the birthplace of stars. In fact, usually at the death of any star, it gives back most of what it took to form years ago as a protostar. M8- stars are known for being a large contributor of carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen, which are essential for life.

Supernovas are important as well. Due to their fusion of heavier elements, they allow for planets like Earth to be born. Heavy elements are created such as zinc, iron, silver, tin, gold, mercury, lead, platinum, and uranium through these celestial events.

These elements and other heavy ones are what create planets such as the Earth, and all of us here on Earth. You, me, and my German shepherd puppy, sitting in her bed next to me as I type this, is all thanks to the death of massive stars and smaller ones alike. We are created by what occurs in the universe. If stars such as our own and bigger stars did not die, we would not be here today.

This fact was what got me initially interested in the world of astronomy. It made me feel so much more connected to the world around me and above me. The transiency of stars, giving us the ingedients to be alive through their deaths, is the way for the universe to explore and learn about itself through us.

I hope this does not scare you to know everything in this universe is temporary but, instead, makes you want to explore it further.

After all, just like the Pink Floyd song, “Fat Old Sun,” speaks to us about reflection on moments passing, so does the Sun as it goes down and disappears, reminding us of the passing of time. Look up to remind yourself not to always look into the future or into the past, but to take time to be in the moment, even though it may be fleeting.