(12/2019) The holidays are fast approaching. It’s the perfect time to reflect on our blessings. Personally, I am thankful for the birth of my second grandchild, who arrived a few weeks ago. We have much to be thankful for in Frederick County. We live in an incredibly caring community. Our economy is thriving. And we are preserving the things we love about our county.

Caring

Every child deserves a chance to have fun and play. Now children of all abilities can play at a new inclusive playground at Emmitsburg Community Park. The Town installed special swings, climbing equipment, and musical features. At the ribbon-cutting on Nov. 2, I saw huge smiles as boys and girls explored the playground. Kudos to the Catoctin Civitan Club, the Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners, and everyone who played a role in the project. Together we are making life better for people!

Another example of how we care for and support one other in our community is our dedicated volunteer community. I want to congratulate one of Woodsboro Fire Company’s volunteers, Katherine Dixon, who recently graduated from the County’s year-long Paramedic Class. Of the 10 new graduates, Katherine was the only one representing the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service. She also earned the honor of being class valedictorian. Students complete more than 1,500 hours of class work, clinical and field training, and hospital experience before passing two national certification exams. Our other new Frederick County paramedics include Michael Curry, Nathaniel Harper, Carly Heflin, Ethan Hundertmark, Lauren Lum, Patrick Mangus, Jason Porterfield, Brittany Ryley, and Jennifer Wilson. Each of our paramedics is passionate about serving the people of Frederick County.

Thriving

We can all be proud that our economy is thriving. Frederick County is growing jobs with new and expanding businesses. This fall, I joined our Office of Economic Development during Business Appreciation Week as they visited more than 100 local businesses. More than 80% told us their business had grown this year, and 63% said they plan to expand! An impressive 100% said they like doing business in Frederick County. The visits are an important way to support our existing businesses so they can prosper.

One local company that is prospering is Walkersville-based Galaxy Control Systems, which celebrated its 45th anniversary last month. Galaxy is a global leader in the manufacturing and support of security access control systems. Their products are proudly made in the U.S.A. and can be found in 70 countries. The company operates out of a building on Main Street that in the early 20th century housed a bakery. Congratulations to Galaxy on reaching this milestone!

Preserving

Frederick County has a rich agricultural history. We celebrated a chapter of that history recently when the Frederick Soil Conservation District marked its 75th anniversary. Members were joined by the Catoctin Soil Conservation District at a banquet to mark the occasion. Soil Conservation Districts play an important role in protecting our land and waterways. They promote best practices in farming operations across Frederick County.

One of my priorities is to ensure that we keep agriculture economically viable so we leave a legacy of agriculture for future generations. That means we must preserve our best, most productive farms, and help to keep agriculture an economically viable industry. In the coming year, the County’s workgroup on value-added agricultural will recommend steps to help farmers grow value-added products through a production and processing co-op.

I’m also looking at ways to accelerate our farmland preservation programs. We have preserved about 65,000 acres of prime farmland, putting Frederick County in the top 10 counties in the nation. We know the demand is there for more people to participate. The challenge is finding the funding. This year, we had more than 40 applicants for preservation easements and enough money to make 7 offers. The time to protect our farmland is now.

Holiday cheer

Take some time this month to enjoy the season. Emmitsburg’s Evening of Christmas Spirit and town tree lighting take place Monday, December 2nd at 6 p.m., with events at the community center and the Carriage House Inn. The annual Christmas in Thurmont event is scheduled for Saturday, December 7th at the Guardian Hose Company Fire Hall. Activities and entertainment run all day, from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. The town’s holiday train display will be open on weekends leading up to Christmas at 12 East Main Street in Thurmont.

I hope your holiday is filled with joy!