Diamond Rings for sale
January 28, 2010
Brand new, never been worn.10K Ring $50 Paid $190 (certification papers) Solitaire Princess Cut 3/8 Diamond Ring (size 
$300 Paid $999 (Certification papers) 301.271.2075
Bristol Race Tickets for Sale
January 28, 2010
Bristol Motor Speedway. 2 races the Nationwide Race & Sprint Cup Race. March 20th & 21st 2010.Section Darrell Waltrip AA 8 tickets available. $148 per person. Call Dave or Dawn 301.271.2075. Just leave a message
January Questions of the Month
January 28, 2010
Lady Cougars 2010 Schedule
January 28, 2010
From left to right:
Front Row: Courtney Clemons, Courtney Topper, Whitney Wenmoth, Kylie Raubaugh
Second Row: Aislinn Latham, Taylor Joy, Tyra Watkins, Ally Delauter, Kristy Erfurdt, Amanda Hackney
Back Row: Asst Coach Mark Topper, Head Coach Jeff Raubaugh, Asst Coach Mike Delauter
MID-MARYLAND GIRLS HOME GAME SCHEDULE
ALL GAMES PLAYED AT THE THURMONT MIDDLE SCHOOL GYMNASIUM
Saturday February 6 Smithsburg Home 5:30 & 7:00
Friday February 12 Thomas Johnson Home 5:30 & 7:00
Saturday February 27 Tournament Home TBD (All Day)
Sunday February 28 Tournament Home TBD (All Day)
The Catoctin Lady Cougars JV & Varsity girls’ basketball teams of the Mid-Maryland basketball conference have begun their season. The next home game will be February 6th, 2010 which will be held at the Thurmont Middle School gymnasium. The Junior Varsity will begin their play at 5:30 PM and the Varsity girls will play immediately following the conclusion of the JV game. If you are a student of the Catoctin School District area and wear your basketball team jersey, your entry to the Smithsburg game will be free. Come on out and support your local area Thurmont Middle School girls. For those of you that enjoy the tournament atmosphere, February 27 & 28 is going to be packed full of girls basketball. This year the Catoctin Lady Cougars will be hosting the Division II tournament. Please feel free to stop by the Thurmont Middle School on the 27th & 28th and enjoy some very good basketball.
Tasty Tips from Tina
January 27, 2010
One of my New Year’s resolutions was to start cooking big meals again on Sundays. Considering I haven’t been back to the gym, religiously done two loads of laundry a day, given myself more time in the morning so I’m not so stressed on my way to work and become an overall kinder person I figured the least I can do is cook a good meal once a week.
Since there’s only been three Sunday’s so far it hasn’t been much of a streak. I enjoy preparing the menu, which is like trying to solve the Rubic’s Cube. This one doesn’t like this but the other two do. Kid A likes that but without mushrooms and Girlfriend B doesn’t like it at all. Husband A is fairly easy to please when it comes to dinners. I think he’s afraid to mess with me after I get all the colors lined up.
Dessert is the easiest part. Almost anything goes. This week I made “Dirt” which is nothing more than pudding and whipped cream combined and layered with crushed Oreos. I even used the truffle bowl for effect, fancy schmancy. My boys were teasing me because I put the little gummy worms in it but by the time they were done digging for them the poor dessert actually looked like the dirt from the front yard. So much for ambiance.
The best part of the meal was the visits I got from the family during the preparation. The kisses and hugs I got as they looked over my shoulder to see how much longer it was going to be. It dawned on me these days are numbered. In the midst of our busy lives they grew up. So if I don’t get to the gym and laundry doesn’t get done everyday oh well, but Sunday dinner is one resolution I plan on keeping.
This recipe came to me from a very old and dear friend.. His wife is one of the lucky women whose husband does most of the cooking.
Sea Food Bisque
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cups coarsely chopped sweet red peppers. {3 large}
3 green onions, shopped
1 cup coarsely chopped celery, {3 ribs of celery}
2/3 cups of chopped carrots {2 carrots}
1/2 cup coarsely chopped red onion
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp. Dried tarragon leaves
1/8 tsp ground red pepper
4 cups coarsely chopped tomatoes {4 tomatoes}
1 1/2 cups whipping cream
1 cup dry sherry
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1/2 pound lumped crab meat
shrimp or langostinos {if you want thicker soup}
In a 6-quart saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add next 8 ingredients, cook stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender. Add tomatoes, stir until well blended. Stir in cream and sherry. Reduce heat to low and and simmer 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Stir in lemon juice and seafood and simmer 10 minutes or longer if seafood is frozen. Serve warm.
Anytime I go to an Italian restaurant I look for this on the menu. Turns out it is so easy to make.
Chicken Marsala
1/4 cup all-purpose flour for coating
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - pounded 1/4 inch thick
4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp olive oil
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup Marsala wine
1/4 cup cooking sherry
1. In a shallow dish or bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper and oregano. Coat chicken pieces in flour mixture
2. In large skillet, melt butter in oil over medium heat. Place chicken in the pan, and lightly brown. Turn over chicken pieces and add mushrooms. Pour in wine and sherry. Cover skillet. Simmer chicken 10 minutes, turning once until no longer pink and juices run clear.
Thurmont police calls 2009
January 27, 2010
Thurmont Police Department Calls
Offense 2009 YTD
Murder 0
Rape 1
Robbery 1
Aggravated assault 9
Burglary 15
Theft 46
Vehicle Theft 5
Officers Assaulted 0
Calls for Service 7981
(Non-Traffic)
Traffic Citations 605
Traffic Warnings 1113
Municipal Citations 43
Municipal Citations 33@$1925
(Paid)
Patrol Checks 2527
Adult Arrests 1403
Juvenile Arrests 34
CDS Arrests 31
CDC Seized 17
Weapons Seized 6
DUI Arrests 32
Destruction of Property 58
Parking Citations 184
Total cases reported 484
Total cases closed 340
Mason- Dixon Discovery Center Closing
January 27, 2010
Mason- Dixon Discovery Center Closing Editorial by V. Grinder
Three years ago The Mason Dixon Discovery Welcome Center made its debut in Northern Frederick County, a $5.3 million dollar debut. Many independent businesses witnessed the transformation of the Emmitsburg Welcome Center come to life, and looked forward to more visitors channeling from the new center into their nearby establishments. But just three years later, the center is closed. On December 1, 2009, the State cut the funding for the Mason Dixon Discovery Center in addition to four other centers located throughout Maryland. The recent cut saves the state $100,000 per year in their budget according to DBED in December. This closing is beyond budget cuts. Two weeks prior to their closing the State of Maryland praised the tourism industry for the great strides achieved during a time of economic demise; in addition to one of the top providers of employment. One full time and two part-time positions were eliminated at the Mason and Dixon Center. This center also had the opportunity of several volunteers who took pride in one of America’s most popular routes where history was born, the road to Gettysburg. The state perhaps saved their budget; but what about the Northern Frederick County businesses which depended on this center to send visitors their way, especially during the winter months? The center permitted local businesses to display their literature and welcome center staff would direct these visitors to local establishments. While the state cuts the center, hospitality and retail can expect to see a decrease in traffic as well in Frederick County. Gettysburg ranks the third most visited venue nationally for visitors according to a recent Michigan State statistic. State cuts budget + sales decrease in the local tourism industry + unemployment tax increase on businesses as of January 2010 equals the perfect ingredients for yet more loss of jobs in the area. The following is a quote from the FNP from Marci Ross, “The Mason-Dixon history is about freedom, conflict and resolution, faith and humility. When people think of the Mason-Dixon, they usually think North and South and Maryland, hence, the need to capitalize on that history,” “It’s a welcome center for the 21st century, designed and built to fit in with the scenery.” Ms. Ross is the assistant director for product development with the Maryland Office of Tourism Development. Needless to say, Frederick County will not be capitalizing on any of that statement. Sidling Hill Exhibit Center west of Hancock closed in July, leaving the restrooms open which recently closed January 5, 2010. SHA “spokesperson” was quoted in the Herald Mail as saying, “The restroom closure at Sideling Hill will save the state about $114,000 in water, electricity and other costs, Buck said. “For the purpose of a bathroom, you only have to go five minutes on either side (of Sideling Hill),” Buck said. “Will the amenities be the same? Probably not. But a bathroom is a bathroom.” With that said then why are the bathrooms still open at the Mason Dixon Center? After all a bathroom is a bathroom. So cut the jobs and possible revenue for local businesses, yet pay to keep the bathrooms open? If you are going to close it, then close the entire facility. Funnel the restroom “business” into local business, like Buck said, “you only have to go five minutes on either side.” Seems consistency is not in their game plan. It was also noted in the Herald Mail in December 2009; Mr. Buck said signs would be made for posting to inform motorists the center is closed. Wonder how much they will cost? Tom Riford, president and CEO of the Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau, said in an e-mail that the restroom closing at Sideling Hill would hurt tourism in Washington County because people will drive straight through without stopping. Frederick County will experience that same decline.
No plans have been made for the reopening of the Mason-Dixon Discovery Center. Spring perhaps? I left several messages and emails for the Office of Maryland Tourism, and DBED for more specific future plans of this center and to date have received no response. The state s decision to ax tourism centers throughout the region necessary? Perhaps, but when one calls the state and you are told, “Oh yes, you need to speak with [the assistant to the assistant] of that department” I think that speaks volumes of budget cuts. We all know how the trickledown effect works and have been the victims; wonder if we could reverse that and trickle up cutting those jobs?
Unforgettable… that’s what you are! by Vickie Grinder
January 27, 2010
Have dogs taken on a different role in society? Oh yea! Fido has become an enormous role in our everyday family lives like never before. With that said pet portraits are popping up on walls everywhere. I recently discovered Nancy Houston; Surgical Assistant at Catoctin Vet Clinic is also a talented artist. Nancy has been painting for twenty five years and her specialty? Dog portraits. Ms. Houston tells us, “I’ve been painting for about 25 years. “I studied under Dennis Blalock at the Firedrake Studio here in Thurmont.” “He was a great mentor and is a dear friend.” Nancy has always wanted to be an artist, and says jokingly, “that is why I am a vet assistant!” Ms. Houston comes from a long line of painters. Her grandfather was a painter and was entranced by his studio from a very young age. “I used to go in and pretend I was painting by mimicking his strokes on a canvas with a dry brush.” Nancy added “I really just wanted to do what he did; his pieces were so vibrant and exciting.” Needless to say a vet surgical assistant coupled with artisan abilities would contribute to a natural extension of her pet portrait passion. Nancy commented it was a natural extension of the course of her life-similar to that of a marriage between her two passions. “I love to paint dogs, doing what dogs do; it’s the best of both worlds.” You can stop by Catoctin Vet Clinic, 4 Paws Place in Thurmont, to view several pieces of Nancy’s work on display. Interested in getting “Man’s (And female) Best Friend” portrait painted? Select that special Fido photo and Nancy will bring the picture to life as a memorable keepsake for years to come! A portion of the price of the portrait is donated to pet charities. Nancy may be contacted at 301.271.0156 or nancyzoo91@comcast.net
It’s Tax Time!
January 27, 2010
It’s Tax Time!
Melissa Wetzel, CPA, P.C. is offering several discount programs when preparing your tax return. This year Melissa will be offering free electronic filing. Melissa says this helps ensure her clients get their refunds in a timely manner, and that her filing will ensure your tax return will be entered into the IRS data base promptly and correctly. Another option is her $1 per canned food item (up to $5) brought to office when she prepares your tax return. What a great way to help others! Melissa Wetzel also offers a referral program where she will send you a check for $20.00 to any client who refers three new clients to her office. My favorite option is the “Patronize local business” discount. When you visit Melissa to have your taxes done, you show Melissa a receipt that is dated within the last two weeks from an independent business from Emmitsburg, Thurmont, Taneytown or Fairfield Business and she will take $2 off your tax return. This does exclude supermarkets, fast food chains and gas stations. Helping local businesses can help you as well. Melissa’s office will also be selling baked goods for the Non-Profit Organization, EOPCC (Dr. Portier’s Office), during tax season to help raise money for their cause. Melissa says, “Whether I am doing your taxes or not, people can stop by to purchase baked goods for this much needed cause.” She will be selling baked goods from February 10th through
March 31, 2010. Why take a chance on your tax return when you can have the return professionally prepared at an affordable price. Melissa offers not only individual tax returns but businesses as well. She also specializes in consulting, payroll taxes and notary services. Melissa Wetzel, CPA, P.C. is located at 301 West Main Street Emmitsburg, MD or contact her at 301.447.3797. Her hours are Monday through Saturday (Tuesday’s and Thursday’s late afternoon through evening).
Say What? by Mike Cady
January 27, 2010
SAY WHAT!
Caveat Emptor is Alive and Thriving! By Mike Cady
Caveat emptor is Latin for “let the buyer beware” and it is alive and thriving in many businesses, but none more than in the auto industry. For the past three years, I served as the Business Development and Internet Manager for a local car dealership and what I learned was a real eye opener. I understood that buying a vehicle was a negotiation process, but I did not know on how many levels. Now retired, I am happy to share with you a few thoughts that may save you thousands of dollars on your next vehicle purchase.
Most people do a fair to excellent job of negotiating the price of their new car purchase, but completely cave in when it comes to the value of their trade, finance rates, and after-market products, such as: extended warranties, gap insurance, car care services, and security systems to name just a few options. First, here are a few general rules to help you avoid making an emotional versus intellectual decision:
- Ø Research the vehicles of interest to you prior to contacting any dealership. Make sure you know which vehicles best meet your transportation needs and desires (e.g. style, size, power, fuel efficiency, safety ratings, price range, etc.).
- Ø Ask a friend or relative to accompany you when you visit a dealership. Make them promise not to let you sign any papers on your first visit.
- Ø Go to the dealerships closest to your home or place of work to test drive the vehicles of greatest interest and have all of your questions answered to your satisfaction. Be sure to get a quote on one or two vehicles that you want most.
- Ø After getting the quote, have your trade-in (if any) appraised. Do not let the sales consultant know of your trade until after you get the quotes you desire.
- Ø Do not reveal any financial data on the first visit (e.g., completing a credit application or how much down payment you plan to make). None of these factors should influence the price of your new car or the value of your trade.
Each visit should take less than an hour and it is imperative you take charge of the situation by staying focused on your objectives, not those of the sales consultant.
New Vehicle Sales Price - Having a minimum of three quotes on the sales price of your new vehicle and trade-in value, you are ready to do some serious marketplace testing. To get your best deal, use the Internet by e-mailing three dealerships within a reasonable distance from your home or place of work that sells the brands of greatest interest to you. For example: if you decided on a Ford Taurus, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry, ask nine dealerships for their respective prices on the exact models (including options) you are considering. This includes the dealerships you visited. Quite often, you will get a better price through the Internet than on the showroom floor. Do not concern yourself with your trade at this time. This important issue will be addressed on your second and (hopefully) last visit. Also, do not give your phone number and insist all communications be by e-mail. Regardless of the responses received, do not accept any of them as being their best price. There is still room for further negotiations on your second visit.
Return to the dealerships you originally visited armed with your Internet quotes. Many dealerships say they will match or beat any written quote. Directly ask the sales consultant how much over invoice is their quote. Once answered, ask to see a copy of the invoice. If they refuse or the invoice presented does not match the quote given, leave at once as this dealership cannot be trusted. Now, you are ready to deal by making an offer less than any of the quotes received.
Start the negotiation by taking the lowest quote received and offering the dealership of your choice $500 less than this quote. Pay no more than the lowest quote received or an amount greater than factory invoice (less factory rebates and incentives).
Trade-in Value - Tax wise, it is to your advantage to trade your current vehicle rather than sell it on you own. Note: its value is even more important to negotiate than the new car price. Start by going to www.kbb.com and entering all of the information about your trade (including zip code, mileage, all options and general condition). It will give you a trade-in value. Simply stated, take a copy of this information to the dealership and accept nothing less.
Finance Rates - Dealerships are only too happy to arrange financing for you. Most of them work with multiple lending institutions, but not necessarily to get you the lowest rate. Instead, most (if not all) of them try to place your loan with the institution that gives them the most mark up. For example, the dealership may tell you the interest rate is 7% for 60 months and the bank is actually offering 4.9%. Thus, the Dealership makes a profit of 2.1% on the life of this loan, which can add up to hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars. To avoid this mark up applying to you, always request the exact interest rate being paid and the name of the lending institution. Then, while at the dealership, call that entity and confirm the rate being quoted. If you are a member of a credit union, check with it for its best rate prior to visiting the dealership. USAA, as an example, offers a much better rate than commercial institutions. You can leave a deposit on a vehicle confirming the purchase and trade values while checking out finance options in subsequent days. If your credit is good, you should not pay more than 4.9% on a new vehicle and 6.9% on a used one.
After-Market Products - After a deal is agreed upon, the dealership will sweep you off to a Finance Office where a very pleasant person will go over all of the paperwork with you. However, before doing so, they will try to sell you a whole litany of products. Some of them are very worthy of your consideration. However, all of them are subject to negotiation. Do not pay the price quoted on any of them without seeing their actual cost and the mark-up being applied. One dollar over cost for extended warranties is a good deal. Gap insurance may be required by the lending institution, but that rate is also negotiable. By now, you have seen and talked to a number of people and are worn out. If too tired to cope with the Finance Officer, ask if you can return the next day to complete the transaction. Just the thought of you leaving the dealership will encourage the Finance Officer to be more efficient with your time and offer you their best product prices. And, there is nothing wrong with refusing all of the offerings. You can always return in a reasonable time-frame and pay cash for the items of interest to you.
Remember, caveat emptor (let the buyer beware) usually refers to the actual business deal itself. Is the
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