Emmitsburg Commissioner Seats decided
September 30, 2009
Emmitsburg held thier election on September 29, 2009 for two commssioner seats. Mr. Clifford Sweeney will keep his commissioner seat and Joyce Rosensteel lost her seat to Mr. Tim O’Donnell. Congratulations to both winners! Emmitsburg holds an election every year for a commissioner seat. 2009 election was for two seats with four candidates.
Officers Debord and Fitzgerald honored for DUI arrests
September 30, 2009
Officers Fitzgerald and Debord honored for DUI arrests
One hundred twenty officers received distinction for having made the highest number of DUI arrest within their respective departments for calendar year 2008 this past Sunday, September 27th during the eighth Annual DUI Law Enforcement Award presented by the Impaired Driving Coalition. The Coalition is compiled of approximately 300 members representing professional highway safety professionals, law enforcement, highway safety advocates as well as public and private sector agencies, businesses and associations. The Maryland Highway Safety Office is the proud sponsor of this annual award as it personally recognizes the sacrifice and commitment made by Maryland Officers from every part of the state. Two Thurmont Police Officers were recognized at this year’s event and received awards for their DUI enforcement within their jurisdiction. Officers Mark Debord and Daniel Fitzgerald were honored at this event which was held at the Carroll County Agricultural Center in Westminster.
Special of edition of Thurmont World for Mayoral Candidates
September 27, 2009
The final three candidates will be interviewed this week on WTHU 1450AM. There will be two special editions featuring the unexpected mayoral candidate Rosie Bentz. Martin Burns will air Thursday, October 1st at 7:30 am and Rosie Bentz on Friday, October 2nd at 7:30 am. John Bean, candidate for commissioner will air Saturday, October 3rd at 9 am. All shows may be heard on wthu.org
Guess what?
September 27, 2009
This month readers will be spared my ponderings. Due to the elections and three seats up for grabs October 5th, I dedicated a large amount of space to the five candidates in Thurmont. I had the opportunity to interview the three commissioner candidates as well as two mayoral candidates. Please see “Breaking News” for all five of those interviews. Publisher Ponders will return next month just like a pesky fly. I will leave you with columnist Mark Smith Ramblings this month which appeared in the printed edition. Til next time-Peace!
Remembering Post 9/11 Bi-Partisanship Mark Smith
Upon reflecting recently of the 8-year anniversary of the tragic events of September 11th, 2001, I can vividly recall so many emotional memories that occurred that day. I remember when the news broke, and then broke again, and then again and again. I recall my initial reaction that this could be the beginning of WWIII and how scared I was of that actually happening. One thing I distinctly remember was the impromptu “God Bless America” sing along by both Republicans and Democrats together in Congress later that afternoon. I also can summon up the sentiment that this was going to be a “different America” now. Partisanship was less important; Patriotic unity was going to be what made our country resilient and strong after this horrific day. How long did that last? 6 months? A year, maybe?
The bickering between the political parties is now again full-blown. Democrats are too busy defending their newly elected President by continuing to live in the past and blame the Bush administration for the state of the union. Republicans are too busy attacking the current administration’s policies without offering any solutions to the existing problems this country is submersed in. Instead they choose to basically proclaim that President Obama and Josef Stalin are one-in-the-same.
Hey, I recognize the importance of the two political party system that we run on in this country. The balance of power HAS to be shifted back and forth for us to stay unified and be able to have the freedoms and liberties that makes of the UNITED States of America. If one set of beliefs and values is all we can rely on in our leaders, we essentially WILL be communists and/or socialists. If you look back in history, it has been proven that this is indeed the case. The Democrats seize control of the country for a while and then the Republicans will have it for a period of time. And back and forth, and so on and so on…
To me it is very frustrating to see the negative propaganda that is being put out by the Republicans these days. I am sent so many emails from my conservative friends that are intended to be humorous, comparing Obama to a socialist and a Nazi, and some other ones making disturbing references to his race. Regardless of how you voted this past November, one thing we all should be proud of as Americans is that as a society, we have escalated above the point where race is a factor anymore. I am so proud to see the next generations, which really are the ones that determined the outcome of this past election, do not even see the color of a persons skin when making judgments about leadership capabilities. Let’s not go backwards again and make race an issue here, please?
The boiling point for me was the bumper sticker I saw that read, “Obama lied; the economy died.” What exactly is that supposed to mean besides being an obvious retaliation the other bumper sticker about President Bush and the war in Iraq. What did Obama lie about? And again, please tell me how HE killed the economy? How can you kill something that was dead when you took it over? I distinctly remember how Obama wanted to make it clear during his campaign that there was NO quick fix to the mess our economy was (and still is) in. This is just a convenient opportunity to attack the man eight months in to his four-year term. Like Jerry Reed once sung in a not-so-famous song many years ago, “We’ve got a LONG way to go, and a short time to get there”.
And Democrats, can you please articulate how Obama’s policies are going to pull this country out of this mess without attacking the Bush administration, please? That’s all you hear from them. “We’re in this mess because the Bush administration did this or didn’t do that.” Please, let’s move forward. You got the power of the White House back, do something with it now instead of attacking the Republican party.
The message every year on September 11th is “We shall NEVER forget!” We will never forget so many things that happened that day, but that short-lived sense of bi-partisanship and unity I feel is long gone.
Adopt me Please!
September 27, 2009
Name: Stella-6178
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Age: 9 years old
Gender: Female
Weight: 11.5lbs
Stella arrived at Frederick County Animal Control because her owner went into assisted living. She enjoys the company of people and can hold up her end of the conversation. Stella has been spayed and tested negative for feline leukemia and feline immune deficiency. Her adoption fee is $57.50.
Name: Waldo-6140
Breed: Domestic Medium Hair
Gender: Male
Age: 1.5 yrs
Weight: 7.9lbs
Waldo was relinquished to Frederick County Animal Control on June 24th; he was given up because his family was moving. It was reported that Waldo enjoys lying on a lap and that he lived with a dog and other cats. Waldo’s adoption fee is $77.50
Name: Rock-0819
Breed: Alaskan Malamute Mix
Age: 6 years
Gender: Male
Weight: 99lbs
Rock was relinquished by his owners because they both became unemployed and could not care for him. His owners reported that he has lived with another dog and four cats. Rock’s adoption fee is $72.50 and includes
Name: Braxton-1428
Breed: Cocker Spaniel/Lab Mix
Gender: Male
Age: 3 yrs
Weight: 51.6lbs
Braxton arrived at the shelter a victim of a divorce. He has lived with younger children and been around other dogs. Braxton’s adoption fee is $92.50 and will include microchip registration, a vet wellness visit, a rabies vaccination voucher and a county license.
A Cat by any other Name
September 27, 2009
A Cat By Any Other Name by D. “JB” Bramson
The word cat is used by almost all European countries. It is probably an ancient word derived from the Arabic word - guttah. The Egyptians are the people who domesticated cats.
The word for cat in various languages:
chat- French
gato- Spanish
gatto- Italian
katze- German
katt- Swedish/Norwegian
kat- Dutch
kottur- Icelandic
kot- Polish
kats- Yiddish
kata- Greek
guttus- Maltese
The origin of the word puss (i.e. pussy cat) is probably from Pasht, the early Egyptian cat goddess. The origin of tabby is the Turkish name utabi. Another word for cat in Turkish is kedi, hence kitty.
Cat Breeds
The oldest cat breed is the shorthaired which is descended from cats across Europe which were spread by Romans. In the 16th century, ships from the orient brought the tail-less Manx to the Isle of Man. At the same time, longhaired breeds (i.e. Angora) were brought to Europe from Turkey. Later, in the mid-19th century, the Persian breed, from Asia Minor gained popularity. In the late 19th century, the Siamese came from the Far East, the Russian Blue from Russia, and the Abyssinian from Ethiopia. In the 1930’s, the Burmese was brought to the U.S. In the 1960’s, the Sphinx, a naked cat from Canada, the Rex from Devon and Cornwall in England, and the Scottish Fold were all introduced. In the 1970’s, the Japanese Bobtail was imported to the U.S.
The Ragdoll is so named because when they are picked up, they hang limply like a ragdoll.
Cat Senses
Cats, like us, respond to four basic tastes: bitter, sour, sweet and salt. Cats do not have a strong sweet tooth. Their most powerful response to food comes from smell, not taste. A cat can learn all it needs to know about a food item without even trying the food. A cat’s preferred temperature for food is 86 degrees F, the same as its tongue temperature.
Cat Feeding Behavior- explaining food rejection/ finicky eater.
Some causes of sudden decrease in appetite:
1) a female who’s in heat
2) weather changes- increased heat and humidity
3) finding food/prey elsewhere(neighbor’s house, hunting outside)
4) location of food bowl- too sunny, too noisy, too much commotion
Food Variety mechanism- this was found in birds originally. It ensures not being dependant on one kind of prey in case it should no longer exist. This allows for switching diets in the home for a pet cat. Some cats stick to one food and one food only. They bond to that food and won’t even try another more tasty food (like canned). Even if given a variety of food, it will refuse one of it’s favorites occasionally. Most pet cats should not be allowed to eat whatever amount of food they want. They tend toward obesity and if they have a cushy, couch potato lifestyle, they require much fewer calories. If calories in are greater than calories out you get a fat cat. Portion control by owners is key.
Drinking Behavior
Cats will avoid the clean water source quite often because it has been treated with chemicals/chlorine. Alternatively, the odor from cleaning products used on water bowls can be a deterrent. Instead, cats like the natural organic odors of puddles and pooling water outside (ponds and bird baths).
Make sure to rinse bowls well after using detergents. Always have water available and do not give milk to cats. As cats get older, they get lactose intolerant. This leads to gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea.
There are actual water fountains made for cats too, since they often like running water.
Remember; if you give food, shelter and a loving home to your dog, it thinks you’re God. If you give food, shelter and a loving home to your cat, it thinks that it’s God!
Source: Cat Watching by Desmond Morris
Bentz Interview
September 27, 2009
Question #1:
What was the determining factor in your decision to run for commissioner? (Or determining factor to run for re-election?)
After many people approached me I thought it would be a wise decision so folks would at least have a choice in the election for mayor.
Question #2:
What strengths do you feel you bring to the table?
I have very good organizational skills. I also delegate duties and get along well with people. I have held top offices in church, legion and the work place. I don’t have a temper and negotiate to accomplish satisfactory results.
Question #3:
If you were to implement a strategic plan, what would your ten year plan include?
I would like to bring harmony to the board and restore the town to a peaceful community and would like to see our electric cost decline and deep taxes livable. I would also like to see our sewer system upgraded to standard and some of our streets need paving.
Question #4:
What is your party affiliation?
The town government is a non partisan position. However, I am a liberal and trust worthy.
On the personal side:
Question #5:
How long have you lived in Thurmont?
I have lived in the condos on Cody Drive for 16 years. Prior to that we spent 7 years on Hillside Ave and 25 years in Creagerstown, which is all in the 21788 zip.
Question #6:
When voting in an election, what do you look for in a candidate?
Someone who is a good steward of ethics and advocates thrift. They should be ready to revise, recycle and respect their fellow colleagues to get the job done.
Question #7:
Who has been a mentor for you?
My best help comes from the Lord. My husband is my cheerleader and many people have influenced my life.
Question #8:
How would you describe Thurmont to an individual who has never heard of Thurmont?
Thurmont is small town US. It is located at the foothills of the mountain which make it a beautiful, quiet town. We have good schools, industry, a good senior center and many youth programs as well. It is also a fun place to live.
Question #9:
How would your best friend describe you to me if I did not know you?
They would probably say I am fun to be with, honest and hard working. I am good natured and God’s child.
Question #10:
What do you enjoy most to do in any spare time you may have?
Spare time? What’s that! I keep moving with one project after another. I really like my charitable work with the VA at Martinsburg. They really appreciate seeing people come.
And back to business:
Question #11:
What do you think is Thurmont’s greatest challenge in the next four years?
Sewer, electric and street paving
Question #12:
How do you think technology will streamline the town’s payroll expense resulting in a savings for the taxpayers? Email all mail and bills to those who have it and save postage. Use direct deposit for employees and make sure the employees are doing their jobs and utilize time effectively.
And now you have the last word:
I am not always good with words but I get the job done. I have had a wide range of jobs in my life and have never been fired from any of them. I am proud to be an American Citizen and thankful that I am free to decide and “I would like to run for mayor!” The American dream is to do the things in life which mean the most. I love this town and enjoyed being the Heritage Queen last year. It gave me an opportunity to be a good ambassador for Thurmont. We were received most agreeably in every town we went to. We had a great time attending the library opening, police building opening, gallery strolls and helping with Halloween in the Park and the Christmas tree lighting ceremonies. I just like people and keeping on the move. Elect me and I will show you my colors!
Burns Interview
September 27, 2009
Question #1:
Why do you think you are running unopposed?
I think the residents are happy with the direction the town is going and understand how much time and effort I put into it personally for them. During these tough economic times we have been able to balance the budget, cut our expenses and lower the tax rate below what we took in last year.
Question #2:
What do you feel has been your best accomplishment while serving as mayor for Thurmont?
The best accomplishment has been the development of personal relationships with the State which brought an unprecedented amount of tax dollars (Grants) back to Thurmont, $220, 000 for Parks, $1.4Million for sewers, Trolley trail Grants, Trolley car Grants, $75,000 from Department of Natural Resources and the ability to refinance long term loans, and restructure health care which saved approximately $700k and $100K respectively.
Question #3:
What was your biggest disappointment during your tenure as mayor?
Not being able to develop a better working relationship with the Commissioners. No one likes turmoil and it makes it harder to get things accomplished for the citizen’s when we are disagreeing on what should or shouldn’t be done.
Question #4:
What is your party affiliation?
I am a registered Republican. However I have and will continue to vote for candidates that I feel represent my interests whether they are Republican or Democrat. I feel most Americans are sick of partisan politics and simply want everyone to debate an issue vote and then support the outcome.
On the personal side:
Question #5:
How long have you lived in Thurmont?
I was a Marine at Camp David for 3 1/2 years and have lived in Thurmont town limits since 1993. So that’s a total of 16 years at my current residence.
Question #6:
When voting in an election, what do you look for in a candidate?
That depends, It shouldn’t matter what your party affiliation is. At the municipal level I look for someone who wants to put forth a combined effort to help the Mayor and Commissioners do all we can do for the betterment of the residents and aren’t running just to be an obstructionist. When you get to the State and Federal Level then It can come down to major platform issues and those differences are found in political parties. What I hate most is when people or politicians vote ONLY based on PARTY or private alliances. I want an independent thinking individual who will base decisions on the issue at hand and has the ability to defend his/her position based on sound rationale reasons.
Question #7:
Who has been a mentor for you?
I’ll be honest with you, there are two men who I would say have influenced my life and most likely never knew it until now. One is Bob Hamlin who is a Thurmont resident. Bob’s daughter and my daughter grew up playing soccer together and I found him to be a kind compassionate man who I never saw lose his temper or get angry. Everyone seemed drawn to him and he has a caring, kind compassionate disposition. The second would be my son, Chad. He epitomizes everything I want to be. He is a caring, compassionate person who has always done what’s right and has made me proud. Both these men are who I would like to be.
Question #8:
How would you describe Thurmont to an individual who has never heard of Thurmont?
This is an easy one and I use it all the time to describe Thurmont. I tell everyone this “Thurmont is a small Middle American like town. You can walk into Hobbs Hardware store and go up to the counter and be greeted by Mike or Ed Hobbs who will greet you by name. You can go to pay for the item you’re buying and if you realize you don’t have enough money, they’ll write an IOU and tape it to the register and tell you to bring the rest in later. They have done that for me on many occasions and that was long before I was Mayor”. Try doing that in Rockville or Gaithersburg. I think all of Thurmont is the same.
Question #9:
How would your best friend describe you to me if I did not know you?
My best friend would say that I was a dedicated, loyal, honest person. A perfectionist who is never satisfied with his effort. A humble person with a big heart.
Question #10:
What do you enjoy most to do in any spare time you may have?
If I could do anything in my spare time I’d be playing basketball. I love the game, I play every week and would play it every night if there were leagues that ran every night.
And back to business:
Question #11:
What do you think is Thurmont’s greatest challenge in the next four years?
The greatest challenge will be to continue to adjust spending and reduce services to prepare for further budget cuts. We are on what I’d describe is “fiscal life support” only spending what is absolutely necessary. Currently we have Branch Heads having to request permission to spend $35 even if the item was in the budget. Next year could be worse. It’s that bad and we must prepare for more fiscal pain. The biggest heartburn is that we balanced our budget this year only to have the State reduce our revenue they said was coming to Thurmont. Had they projected more appropriately and reduced spending we would be in better shape. Thank goodness we always budget very conservatively underestimating revenues and over estimating expenditures.
Question #12:
How do you think technology will streamline your payroll expense resulting in a savings for the taxpayers?
We had the Chief Financial Officer sign all of the payroll checks and paid our employees ever week. We changed it to every two weeks which has cut the process in half. When you add that everyone is being paid electronically and money is deposited directly into the employees bank account you save on Labor, Paper (checks), and also save on employees going to the bank on payday to cash the checks (during lunch). Streamlining brings us up to what most others do and is a proper way to keep town operations current with industry. It wasn’t necessarily done to save large sums of money it was done to be more efficient which in the end will save some money and make our operations a better value to our residents.
And now you have the last word:
I want to thank the residents who have put their trust in me to lead the town. I am truly humbled to have your faith and confidence to continue if successful at the polls on October 5th . With ten years in office we have compiled the following impressive record. New Library, New Police Station, second grocery store (Weis), $1.4 Million Grant (sewers), $200K (Parks), $35K (Trolley), $50K (Trolley Trail), $1 Million (Refinanced Loans), developed a web site, email, and cell phones to improve communication and access to elected officials, we’ve lowered taxes numerous times, and absorbed what equates to a 3 cent tax increase from the county (increased tipping fees). I was offered the opportunity to write for 9 years in 3 local papers to keep everyone informed. We have kept the growth rate to a minimum and voted accordingly during annexation petitions. If successful for another 4 years we will work to reduce the first due area Fire & Rescue Tax and establish a tax differential which would keep the county from keeping our tax equity payment. No matter who you vote for it’s important you show up at the polls and take part in your town’s future by electing those you think will do the best for all of Thurmont’s residents.
Terpko Interview
September 27, 2009
Question #1: What was the determining factor in your decision to run for commissioner? (Or determining factor to run for re-election?)
There are several reasons that I want to run for re-election:
- I do not like to let any unfinished projects, so I want to get the sewer lines replaced on Carroll, Lombard, and Walnut Streets. We received a 1.4 million dollar grant to do this work.
- The town has had a master plan for Eyler Road Park since the 1980’s. It has not been completed; however, it has been updated. I would like to see all the work out there done. The restrooms, a concession stand, 2 all purpose fields, and an amphitheater. (We have been notified that we are receiving a grant for $142,000.00 to complete the restrooms and concession stand, and one field is in the budget.)
- Next, I would like to address the towns need to produce its own electricity. I believe we can do this. All we need to do is decide which is the best option for us to use. Bio mass, with woody waste and then possibly burning sludge and trash, or using some wind generated power. No matter what we choose to use, the ultimate goal is to reduce rates to residents and keep Thurmont an affordable place to live.
- Then I would also like to see us work with the County Commissioners to possibly reduce our fire tax rate. If they cannot reduce the rate, then send the excess monies back to our local fire department and ambulance company.
- I would like to work on bringing new businesses into town by promoting the affordability of Thurmont and the great location to major cities and airports.
Question #2: What strengths do you feel you bring to the table?
I believe that this town, to be successful, must be run like a large business. My 25 plus years of management experience helps with my decision process on cutting expenses and balancing the budget. I also believe my ability to work with others and share ideas to come to a common goal, has also assisted the town. I also believe the relationships I have developed over the past several years in the county and the state have helped us achieve some of our goals. Finally my open honest approach to all issues and being able to make tough decisions that need to be made prove that I have the skills to lead in this challenging economy.
Question #3: If you were to implement a strategic plan, what would your ten year plan include?
My 10 year Strategic Plan would include:
- A growth strategy with a completed Master Plan
- A completed Eyler Road Park
- A fully remodeled Senior Citizen Center
- An alternative energy producing electricity so we may reduce rates to our residents
- Keeping Thurmont a safe, affordable place to live and raise a family, or retire to
- A thriving business community that includes year round events to keep tourist dollars coming in and businesses growing
- Infrastructure that does not fail and is fully repaired
- Business/entertainment for children, families and people of all ages
Question #4: What is your party affiliation?
In Thurmont, our elections are Non Partisan. I would consider myself a fiscal conservative and a social moderate.
Question #5: How long have you lived in Thurmont?
I have lived here for over 17 years with my wife Tina and our 3 sons, Ron Jr., Brandon, and Anthony
Question #6: When voting in an election, what do you look for in a candidate?
In a candidate, I look for honesty, integrity, and a clear understanding as to where a candidate stands on issues. I want someone who participates in discussions, brings ideas and solutions to the table, and is not afraid to make a decision that will benefit the people. I also want a person who listens and communicates with people and not connected to any special interest groups or has a personal agenda.
Question #7: Who has been a mentor for you?
My mentors are Russ Delauter, Paul Nolan, and Rosemary McDermott. All 3 have contributed to me in so many ways. I know they have all guided me in directions that I believe have not only benefited the town, but have helped me grow personally and professionally. I feel I am very fortunate to have been able to receive the guidance, direction, and support from these individuals.
Question #8: How would you describe Thurmont to an individual who has never heard of Thurmont?
Thurmont is a beautiful community tucked away at the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains. The town borders Camp David and is home to a National Park and State Park. Thurmont is a quaint town with approximately 6000 residents. It is a community of very generous and caring people. Thurmont is a proud community who believes in taking care of itself. Thurmont is a community of many volunteers and people who help each other out. It is a very safe, quiet and peaceful place to live. Thurmont is a wonderful place to raise a family.
Question #9: How would your best friend describe you to me if I did not know you?
Ron is an honest hard working person who sets goals, makes plans, and will not give up on a task or anyone. He genuinely cares about people and is always willing to help someone out. He is very straight forward and will not tolerate anyone who is not sincere or willing to work hard to get what you want or a job done. He does not like a thief or a liar. He is trustworthy and a man of his word. Ron is a great friend to have.
Trust me, after 24 years of marriage, I know him better than anyone and I am proud that he calls me his best friend.
Question #10: What do you enjoy most to do in any spare time you may have?
I like to do many things, but most of all I enjoy a family dinner with my wife and sons. I enjoy all the conversation that takes place. I also love watching sporting events with my family. It seems we all have our own favorite teams and we cheer them on. I also enjoy spending time with my friends. As I grow older, you realize just how lucky you are to have such great people in your life. I also like to golf, bowl, and just relax on the beach.
Question #11: What do you think is Thurmont’s greatest challenge in the next four years?
Continued repairs to our sewer system, keeping taxes low while still providing excellent services, and keeping Thurmont an affordable place to live by working on ways to reduce our utility rates to our residents.
Question #12: How do you think technology will streamline the town’s payroll expense resulting in a savings for the taxpayers?
With some restructuring of our office staff, the possibility of outsourcing some of our clerical functions, one of our staff members could become our Zoning Administrator and then we could possibly eliminate one of our department head positions saving the taxpayer 70,000 plus dollars a year. I also believe doing a time study and gathering employee input on how we could streamline jobs, or implement processes to help find a way to more efficiently do tasks could reduce additional payroll costs and save taxpayer dollars.
And now you have the last word:
I believe we need to work on finding an alternative energy source or way to produce electricity. I believe Biomass maybe an efficient way to do this. The perfect scenario would be to build by Mount Saint Mary’s University. This would enable the steam produced to be used by the school, and electricity sent down the grid to Thurmont at a much lower rate than we are paying now. We could then reduce rates to our residents and help heat the university and save both a lot of money. Then we could address an issue every community has, and that is sludge from the sewer plant and trash from the homes and businesses. The biomass plant could be modified to burn sludge and trash saving residents a couple hundred thousand dollars a year. This would definitely reduce your sewer rates and tax rate. This would happen because we would not have to pay to have sludge or trash removal. This is an option that definitely needs exploring. I also feel the years I have served as Commissioner and my work experience give me the ability to help lead the town through these tough economic times. My record shows I can make the tough decisions, stick by them, and implement programs that save the tax payers money. I have shown I care about our community, and the people who live here. This job is not about planning parties or events. It is about making decisions to build a community and keeping this a safe and affordable place to live. I am asking for your vote on October 5th. I hope to see you at the voting polls.
Bean Interview
September 27, 2009
Question #1:
What was the determining factor in your decision to run for commissioner? (Or determining factor to run for re-election?)
I have considered getting involved with town politics for a long while. My friends and I get together to watch town meetings and participate in town events. I was motivated to run for Commissioner based on their encouragement and the support of my family;
Also, I feel that my life experiences, my love for this town, and my motivation to help improve it will help me succeed as a town commissioner.
Question #2:
What strengths do you feel you bring to the table?
LEADERSHIP: I have a great deal of experience in employee relations and labor negotiations as I hold a senior leadership position in my job. I am blessed with a calm demeanor, good judgment, and the ability to make sound decisions
WILLINGNESS TO LISTEN: I understand that I don’t have all the answers, but I pledge to listen to all citizens’ concerns and respond in a respectful way
FISCALLY CONSERVATIVE: I possess a unique ability to understand budgeting and living within our means. I understand the need to separate governmental “wants” from governmental “needs” to ensure the best services are available to all residents in a cost effective manner
UNDERSTANDING: I believe that growth needs to be viewed in such a way that all of those impacted should have input before any construction starts, and I pledge to ensure that happens
FRESH SET OF EYES AND EARS: I am running for this position strictly as a concerned citizen and not as a politician.
Question #3:
If you were to implement a strategic plan, what would your ten year plan include?
MANAGING GROWTH
As more people discover our wonderful town and want to move here, we must consider two major factors:
1) Before considering any proposed growth, we need to give careful and deliberate consideration to the existing and proposed infrastructure which includes: adequate water and sewer; electrical capacities; impact on existing and proposed roads and traffic patterns; how the proposed growth blends with existing area architecture, history and land use to ensure it does not conflict with long term planned future development. We also need to consider compliance with the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance, and large scale developments must upgrade the existing infrastructure before the first shovel of dirt is turned. This will ensure developers make good on their promises.
2) More importantly, the Town cannot depend on growth to meet the needs of the General Fund budget. If this occurs, it will make Thurmont dependent on growth just to pay the bills. This dangerous trend has recently been realized by some neighboring towns and cities faced with the troubled economy. Thus, when the construction slows or stops, towns have been forced to reduce services and/or raise taxes. The citizens of Thurmont should never have to face either option due to the Town’s dependence on growth.
INCREASING TOURISM/STIMULATING THE LOCAL ECONOMY
Question: What do you think of if someone says they are going to New Market for the day?
Answer: Antique shopping!
While Thurmont is famous for our Colorfest weekend, we need to establish our “niche” market that will draw people to our town 365 days per year. Working together with our Main Street Maryland team, we can create opportunities that draw artists, painters, potters, blacksmiths, and other artisans and shopkeepers to set up their respective shops in Thurmont, with an emphasis on our own local talent! I envision taking the yearly Gallery Stroll and making it into a weekly event by encouraging weekend visitors. By revitalizing our own Main Street and creating a marketing strategy, Thurmont can become known for Colorfest AND weekend Gallery Strolls. By drawing people to Thurmont throughout the year, we can stimulate the local economy and existing businesses at the same time. Finally, not only do we want to draw artists here but we want to provide incentives to KEEP them here and I believe this should be a goal of our strategic plan.
Question #4:
What is your party affiliation?
Republican but I pledge to be a non-political, non-partisan commissioner
On the personal side:
Question #5:
How long have you lived in Thurmont?
My family and I moved to Thurmont over seven years ago.
Question #6:
When voting in an election, what do you look for in a candidate?
I look for a candidate who can communicate their vision in a way that I can relate to and understand. The candidate has to have a real handle on the issues and incorporate their plan for progress into their platform. I support candidates who bring energy and enthusiasm to their campaign. The candidate who demonstrates the ability to get along with others and who practices diplomacy gets my vote.
A candidate sets the tone for their campaign and is responsible for their actions and those of their supporters. Negative campaigning (which includes voter and supporter coercion) are signs of cowardice and candidates engaging in these behaviors, overtly or covertly, directly or indirectly, never get my vote!
I’m a firm believer in “actions speak louder than words” and therefore, the number of years in office does not impress me as much as the candidate’s achievements while in office, such as demonstrating a consistent and active a record of community activism, efficiency and effectiveness. In short, I look for a candidate who exudes leadership not in position or the number of meetings and workshops attended but in action.
Question #7:
Who has been a mentor for you?
In my personal life, it would have to be my father. He was the most patient and universally liked man I’ve ever known. My father was a dedicated family man and a hard worker throughout his 38 year career with the Postal Service. I’ve been told that I’ve inherited his ability to relate to people on a personal level with a calm, reassuring demeanor. At his funeral, people waited for hours to reminisce about Bascomb Bean, and I’m thankful for each and every story.
In my professional life, Assistant Fire Chief Raymond Faith. Chief Faith never felt compelled to make himself look better by trying to make his peers or subordinates look bad. He could make one phone call and get just about any project rolling. If you needed anything: a load of dirt, a new telephone, or new tires on the fire truck, he knew who to call and always had someone who owed him a favor. Often he bought pizza for the guys who did the oil changes for our apparatus, or bought everyone lunch at a tedious training session. Everyone knew that he took care of them and they returned the favor ten-fold. He laughed at himself far more that anyone else and never took his power and authority for granted. I credit him for my quiet yet effective leadership style.
Question #8:
How would you describe Thurmont to an individual who has never heard of Thurmont?
Thurmont is a small, beautiful town of approximately 6,000 residents at the foot of the Catoctin Mountains. It is regionally famous for its scenic views during the fall when the leaves change and for its fall event appropriately titled “Colorfest.” Colorfest is an artisan/craft show that takes place over a weekend in October drawing huge crowds and is one of the biggest shows on the East Coast. During Colorfest, many of the town’s streets are closed and the parks are filled with hundreds of artisans selling their products and doing demonstrations. Local residents hold yard sales and community groups provide food and drink. The rest of the year Thurmont is a quaint town that is a great place to live and work. Thurmont sits between Gettysburg, PA and Frederick, MD on Route 15 and is home to Camp David, the Presidential Retreat.
Question #9:
How would your best friend describe you to me if I did not know you?
My best friend of 29 years would describe me as a very likeable guy who works hard on things that interest him and who is fun to be around. He would tell you that I have a great sense of humor and that I can be counted to keep my promises. He’s never seen me lose my temper. He would tell you that I’m practical and have the gift of common sense and that we were both taught to always be respectful, especially of our elders.
Question #10:
What do you enjoy most to do in any spare time you may have?
In my spare time, I enjoy woodworking, fishing, hunting and all things outdoors. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and helping my daughter with girl scouts, karate and ju-jitsu. My wife and I are renovating Coach Birkland’s old house room by room.
And back to business:
Question #11:
What do you think is Thurmont’s greatest challenge in the next four years?
Thurmont’s biggest challenge over the next four years will be weathering the economic downturn without significantly decreasing services or increasing taxes. This will be made more difficult by the unreliable nature of the State and Federal governments’ contribution to the town budget.
Question #12:
How do you think technology will streamline the town’s payroll expense resulting in a savings for the taxpayers?
Thurmont has recently begun paying employees through an automatic payroll direct deposit through the bank. This modern payroll method saves the town money by alleviating the costs associated with printing paper checks and paying employees to sit and calculate, handwrite or type, and deliver payroll checks. As such, employees can focus on other job duties and responsibilities instead of spending at least one day every two weeks dedicated only to payroll. Many municipalities and governmental agencies use payroll services to also calculate leave balances and other payroll deductions such as taxes and insurance. The town needs to continue to pursue ways to streamline personnel services.
And now you have the last word:
Since being nominated for Commissioner, I have received an overwhelming positive response from the citizens. I’ve been invited to a number of meetings and gatherings and each time I have been greeted with handshakes, smiles, and A LOT of good questions. In my opinion, the people of Thurmont are well informed about every facet of life in our town. I am humbled by the wonderful people who have invited me into their homes or onto their porches to sit and talk about our town.
As your Commissioner, I will continue to listen to your concerns, put forth an agenda that supports the Thurmont you envision, and be a voice for all people of Thurmont. My years as an Instructor with the Fire Service have taught me that in order to be an effective leader; you must be able to present your ideas in a way the people can understand. If people cannot understand your message, no matter how often or loud you repeat it, the message is lost.
The town of Thurmont has many desirable qualities and there is always room for improvement. When asked about how to foster an environment for improvement, Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist.com, said “There’s no genius behind it, its persistence and listening to people.” I will use both persistence and my listening skills to give every citizen the right to be heard and treated respectfully; to preserve the town we have; to ensure the best services available and that our tax dollars are spent wisely; and to improve the quality of life for our families. Thank you for your vote on October 5th.
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