Your Information Link To Area Past & Present | gettysburgcompanion.com Vol. 11/No. 4 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Half Century of Evergreens

AdAms County’s Feathered Charlie Gomer’s Friends Colorful Personality

Rolling through an Alternate gettysburg Lifestyle really Does rock! 2 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 august REGULAR september 2014 Features What’s Inside Vol.11, No. 4 Beauty in the Sky...... 16 Editor’s Notebook For the Love of the Game...... 20 By Alex J. Hayes...... 5 Gettysburg Rocks Returns...... 24 Community Faces...... 6 Alter Egos on Wheels...... 26

What’s Goin’ On...... 8

Personality Profile Charlie Gomer...... 12 One Tank Traveler Lake Tobias...... 28 Delectable Dining Wells Family Bakery...... 30 Beyond The Microphone Skyla Burrell Band...... 34

4 16 20 Vol. 11/No. 4 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 201 Your Information Link To Area Past & Present | gettysburgcompanion.com

Half Century of Evergreens

AdAms County’s Feathered Charlie Gomer’s Friends Colorful Personality

Rolling through an Alternate gettysburg Lifestyle really Does rock!

ON THE COVER 26 Young minds wanting to Our Supporting Advertisers be molded are not the only a Lit’le Irish, Too...... 4 Herb Peddler/dohi Center for Well-Being....4 B&C Auto Menders...... 33 Homewood at Plum Creek...... 11 creatures living at Gettysburg Blue & Gray Bar & Grill...... 33 House of Time, Inc...... 4 College. This shot by Bonita Catoctin Mountain Orchard...... 7 James Gettys Hotel...... 7 A. Portzline shows a family The Christmas Haus...... 33 Lark Gift Shop...... 4 Clingan’s Landscaping...... 19 Martin’s Family Shoes...... 4 of mallard ducks that lives in Cross Keys Village...... 35 Marty Mummert Studio...... 14 a pond on the campus. Fitzgerald’s Shamrock Restaurant...... 15 National Apple Harvest...... 25 The Flower Boutique...... 4 The Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg...... 2 Franklin County Visitor Center...... 32 Quarry Critters Alpaca Ranch...... 23 Friendly’s Restaurant...... 19 Red Bud House...... 11 The Good Life Cleaning Services...... 14 Sea Grace at North Beach Realtors...... 23 Gettysburg Community Theatre...... 15 Shippensburg University/Luhr Center...... 36 Gettysburg Times...... 19 Timber View Veterinary...... 19 Gettysburg Family Restaurant...... 23 True Friends Boutique & Bead Store...... 4

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4 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 EDITOR’S

NotebookBY Alex J. Hayes

A publication of Gettysburg Times, LLC One of my goals of this magazine is to showcase PO Box 3669, Gettysburg, PA 17325

Adams County beyond the battlefield, or touch publisher on the lesser-known aspects of Gettysburg’s Civil Harry Hartman War history. Summer is always a great time to do Editor Alex J. Hayes that, with there being so much in our backyard Magazine Design & Production that we may not know about. Chris Blaska Matt Fern Speaking of backyards, that is exactly where writer Jim Hale takes us this issue. Contributing Writers Every month, the South Mountain Audubon Society lists its meeting in our Ashley Andyshak Hayes newspaper, the Gettysburg Times. It made me curious so I sent Jim on a mission to Holly Fletcher find out how many birds we actually have here in Adams County. It turns out there is a lot. After seeing all of the photos supplied by Bonita Portzline, I may have to go Jessica A. Rudy buy a pair of binoculars. Jim Hale Do you have anyone named Gogo Tenenbomb, Dennis the Menace or By O Jarrad Hedes Hazard in your office? Are you sure? It is possible that you do, but they only go by Vanessa Pellechio that name when they are gliding across the roller rink. Roller Derby is making a Scot Andrew Pitzer comeback, and writer Jarrad Hedes tells us how Hanover’s Black Rose Rollers are Photography making their mark. John Armstrong I first met Charlie Gomer about a year ago while working on the YWCA’s “Dancing with the Local Stars” fundraiser. Charlie caught our attention because Bonita A. Portzline he a well-known, and well-liked, retired teacher but it turns out that Charlie’s Darryl Wheeler retirement has been pretty colorful. Writer Vanessa Pellechio tells us about Charlie’s Advertising Sales love for peacocks and daylilies. The Gettysburg Times sales staff Scot Andrew Pitzer is our hometown boy on the Gettysburg Times staff, and there is no one more fitting to write about the decades old summer tradition of South The Gettysburg Companion is published bimonthly Penn Baseball. South Penn brings ballplayers old and young together and Pitzer and distributed throughout the area. The Gettysburg Companion can be mailed to you for $27 per year explains how the league has changed. (six issues) or $42 for two years (12 issues). Discount We also continue our series, “Beyond the microphone,” in this issue by focusing rates are available for multiple subscriptions. You can subscribe by sending a check, money order or credit on the Skyla Burrell Band. Writer Ashley Andyshak Hayes has been proving to us card information to the address above, online at get- that Gettysburg loves to rock, and that is emphasized by a special music festival tysburgcompanion.com or by calling 717-334-1131. coming to town, properly titled “Gettysburg Rocks.” What makes this festival even All information contained herein is protected by copyright and may not be used without written per- more special is that it benefits children with cancer. mission from the publisher or editor. I hope you enjoy this issue and what is left of your summer. As always, please give Information on advertising may be obtained by call- ing the Gettysburg Times at 717-334-1131. me a call if you have any story ideas. Visit the Gettysburg Companion website at gettys- burgcompanion.com for additional information on advertisers.

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 5 FacesCOMMUNITY 1 Area residents from all walks of life, who are out & about, doing this & that.

1. Stanley Wolf drives one of his antique tractors in the tractor parade during the Latimore Valley Fair on June 28. (Photo by Darryl Wheeler)

2. Several members of the Gettysburg American Legion Post 202 march in the annual Gettysburg Memorial Day parade. (Photo by Darryl Wheeler)

3. Cyclists ride through Gettysburg on July 1 as part of their trek from Ottawa to Washington, D.C. with the CanAm Veterans’ Challenge, an 18- day event sponsored by World T.E.A.M. Sports. (Photo by Darryl Wheeler) 2 3 4. The Information Services Department at Cross Keys Village - The Brethren Home entered this creation in the 5th annual Cardborad Boat Regatta on June 6. There were 11 vessels that competed in the annual event. (Photo by Darryl Wheeler)

5. Gettysburg National Military Park Superintendent Ed Clark talks with Michael Cooper-White and John Spangler, both of the Gettysburg Lutheran Theological Seminary, during a July 1 announcement that Lee’s Headquarters will be sold to the Civil War Trust and restored to its 1863 appearance. (Photo by Darryl Wheeler) 4

6. Erica Parker shows a room she has prepared for her adopted children, 8-year-old Jino and 6-year-old Benedicte. Jino and Benedicte are waiting to be released from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. (Photo by Darryl Wheeler)

7. Randy Prasse, executive director of the Gettysburg Festival, rides in the annual Parade of Chrome, which was part of Gettysburg Bike Week in early July. (Photo by Darryl Wheeler)

8. Gettysburg Times Staff Writer Vanessa Pellechio had to get down very low to interview one of the youngest re-enactors on the field, 4-year-old Jeremy Philbert, at the annual Gettysburg Anniversary Committee Re- enactment on July 4. (Photo by Darryl Wheeler)

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August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 7 WHAT’S

GCompiledoin by Jessica ’A. RudOny

Ongoing Now-Aug. 3 Gettysburg Saturdays, August-September, Totem Pole Playhouse, Fayetteville, presents Fridays and Saturdays, 6-9 p.m. 7 a.m.-12 p.m. “The Foreigner.” www.totempoleplayhouse.org Hauser After Hours at Hauser Estate Winery, Gettysburg Farmers’ Market, Lincoln Square, (717) 352-2164 410 Cashtown Road, Biglerville Gettysburg Now-Aug. 10 www.hauserestate.com Saturdays, The Gettysburg National Military Park offers Fridays, 7-10 p.m. August-September, 7 p.m. a variety of tours and interpretive programs. Live Music Night at Reid’s Orchard & Tasting Courtyard Chats at the Rupp House, www.nps.gov/gett Room, 400 Baltimore St., Gettysburg 451 Baltimore St., Gettysburg

Now-Aug. 17 www.reidsorchardwinery.com www.gettysburgfoundation.org The Eisenhower National Historic Site offers Saturdays in August, 11 a.m. Saturdays, 7-10 p.m. a variety of tours and interpretive programs. Underground Railroad Tours of McAllister’s Live Music Night at Reid’s Orchard & Tasting www.nps.gov/eise (717) 338-9114 Mill. Meet at the south end of the parking lot Room, 400 Baltimore St., Gettysburg Wednesdays, August, at Mulligan MacDuffer Golf Course, 1360 www.reidsorchardwinery.com 6 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg (717) 659-8827 Historic Church Tours of Gettysburg Saturdays in August, www.historicchurchwalkingtours.org 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays, Historic Christ Lutheran Church Tour at august August-September, 2-6 p.m. Christ Lutheran Church, 30 Chambersburg Aug. 1 Adams County Farmers’ Market Farm Fresh St., Gettysburg. (717) 334-5212 First Friday will be celebrated at restaurants, Market will be open at the Gettysburg Saturdays in August, 8 p.m. galleries and retailers throughout downtown Heritage Center “Songs and Stories of a Civil War Hospital” at Gettysburg Gettysburgretailmerchants.com Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. Christ Lutheran Church, 30 Chambersburg Aug. 1-2, 7 p.m.; Aug. 2-3, 2 p.m. Women’s Singer Songwriter Night at Reid’s St., Gettysburg. (717) 334-5212 “The Velveteen Rabbit” Orchard & Tasting Room, 400 Baltimore St., Saturdays, 5-8 p.m.; at Gettysburg Community Theatre, Gettysburg www.reidsorchardwinery.com Sundays, 2-5 p.m. 49 York Street., Gettysburg Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Reid’s Orchard & Winery, 2135 Buchanan www.gettysburgcommunitytheatre.org ( Singer Songwriter Night at Reid’s Orchard & Valley Road, Orrtanna, presents Music in the 717) 334-2692 Tasting Room, 400 Baltimore St., Gettysburg Valley www.reidsorchardwinery.com Aug. 1-2, 7 p.m.; Aug. 3, 2 p.m. www.reidsorchardwinery.com Saturdays, August, 2-5 p.m. The Acts of Kindness Theatre Company Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Summer Concert Series at Adams County presents “Tarzan” at the Eichelberger Thirsty Thursdays at Hauser Estate Winery, Winery, 251 Peach Tree Road, Orrtanna Performing Arts Center, Hanover 410 Cashtown Road, Biglerville www.adamscountywinery.com www.theeich.org www.hauserestate.com Saturdays, August-September, Aug. 1, 5-8 p.m. Fridays, August-September, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. “Art, Wine & Music” 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Adams County Farmers’ Market Farm Fresh at Bluebrick Gallery, Adams County Farmers’ Market Farm Fresh Market will be open at the Outlet Shoppes at 18 N. Washington St., Gettysburg Market will be open at the Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg www.bluebrickgallery.com

8 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 WHAT’S

GoinCONTINUED ’ On

Aug. 2, 7 p.m.; Aug. 3, 2 p.m. Aug. 11-15 Gettysburg www.gettysburgfoundation.org “Route 30 Three!” premieres at the Majestic Musical Theatre Summer Intensive at Aug. 16, 12-4 p.m. Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg Gettysburg Community Theatre, Benefit concert for Shining Stars Therapeutic www.gettysburgmajestic.org 49 York Street., Gettysburg. Riding Ministry at Hauser Estate Winery, 410 Aug. 3, 12-3 p.m. www.gettysburgcommunitytheatre.org Cashtown Road, Biglerville (717) 334-2692 Annual Summer Dinner and Live Bluegrass www.hauserestate.com Music, Hickory Bridge Farm, 96 Hickory Aug. 12-16 Aug. 16, 5 p.m. Bridge Road, Orrtanna The 92nd annual South Mountain Fair will GBPA Summer Picnic & Annual Meeting, www.hickorybridgefarm.com be held at the South Mountain Fair Grounds Daniel Lady Farm, 980 Hanover Road, Aug. 3, 1-4 p.m. near Arendtsville www.southmountainfair.com Gettysburg www.gbpa.org Wine and Design at Hauser Estate Winery, Aug. 13, 6-9 p.m. Aug. 16, 9 a.m. 410 Cashtown Road, Biglerville Dancing with the Vines at Hauser Estate WCO David L. Grove Memorial Run www.hauserestate.com Winery, 410 Cashtown Road, Biglerville will step off from 75 Cunningham Road, Aug. 6, 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. www.hauserestate.com Gettysburg www.active.com (717) 772-2207 Read, Learn, Grow, at Hollabaugh Brothers Aug. 13, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 16, 12-3 p.m. Inc. Fruit Farm and Market, 545 Carlisle “The Music Box” and “It’s a Gift” will be The Historic Gettysburg Road, Biglerville www.hollabaughbros.com shown at the Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Adams County Architectural Salvage Aug. 6, 7:30 p.m. Gettysburg www.gettysburgmajestic.org Warehouse is open on the first block of “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” will be Aug. 14-Aug. 17 South Washington St., Gettysburg. shown at the Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., The 69th Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival, (717) 334-8312 or (717) 677-6400 Gettysburg www.gettysburgmajestic.org Granite Hill Camping Resort, Aug. 16, 6 p.m. Aug. 8-Aug. 9. Sterling Pavilion, Gettysburg An Evening with the Painting at Gettysburg Gettysburg Rocks music festival will be held at www.gettysburgbluegrass.com National Military Park Museum and Visitor locations throughout Gettysburg Aug. 15-16 & Aug. 22-23, 7 p.m.; Center, Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg www.gburgrocks.com Aug. 17 & Aug. 24, 2 p.m. www.gettysburgfoundation.org Aug. 8-Aug. 31. “Little Women” at Gettysburg Community Aug. 17, 10:30 a.m. Totem Pole Playhouse, Fayetteville, presents Theatre, 49 York Street., Gettysburg Yoga on the Hill at Hauser Estate Winery, “Godspell.” www.totempoleplayhouse.org www.gettysburgcommunitytheatre.org 410 Cashtown Road, Biglerville (717) 352-2164 (717) 334-2692 www.hauserestate.com Aug. 17, 4 p.m. Aug. 9-10, 12-5 p.m. Aug. 15-16 2014 Peach Festival at Hollabaugh Brothers 18th annual Civil War Music Muster at Land Conservancy of Adams County Summer Inc. Fruit Farm and Market, 545 Carlisle Gettysburg National Military Park. Picnic, Boyer Nurseries and Orchards, Road, Biglerville www.hollabaughbros.com (717) 338-4433 or (717) 334-1124, ext. 3251 405 Boyer Nursery Road, Biglerville www.nps.gov/gett www.lcacnet.org (717) 334-2828 Aug. 11, 7 p.m. Aug. 19, 7:30 p.m. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Aug. 16 Night-time” will be presented at Majestic Encounters with History, a full day indoor Sue Hill introduces Elsie Singmaster at the Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg program at Gettysburg National Military Park monthly educational meeting of Historic www.gettysburgmajestic.org Museum and Visitor Center, Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg Adams Counth, GAR Building,

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 9 WHAT’S

GoinCONTINUED ’ On

53 E. Middle St., Gettysburg Aug. 30-Sept. 1 David Wills and the Soldiers’ National www.hgaconline.org (717) 334-8312 2nd annual French and Indian Encampment Cemetery” at Gettysburg National Military and Living History Event, Daniel Lady Farm, Park. www.nps.gov/gett (717) 334-1124, Aug. 20, 7:30 p.m. 980 Hanover Road, Gettysburg www.gbpa.org ext. 3251. Advanced registration required. “The Third Man” will be shown at the Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg Aug. 31, 1-3 p.m. Sept. 13, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. www.gettysburgmajestic.org Home Wine Making Class at Adams County 40th annual East Berlin Colonial Day, West Winery, 251 Peach Tree Road, Orrtanna King Street, East Berlin. Features vendors Aug. 20, 7-9 p.m. www.adamscountywinery.com of traditional and contemporary crafts. Paint Nite at Hauser Estate Winery, 410 Sponsored by the East Berlin Historical Aug. 31, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Cashtown Road, Biglerville Preservation Society. (717) 259-7049 19th annual Hanover Chili Cook Off, Good www.hauserestate.com [email protected] Field, North Forney Avenue, Hanover Aug. 23, 4:30-8 p.m. www.hanoverchilicookoff.com Sept. 13, 6 p.m. Gettysburg Brew Fest at the Lutheran “What in the World is a Cyclorama?” Aug. 31, 1:30-4 p.m. Theological Seminary, Gettysburg will be presented at the Gettysburg National St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s 240th birthday www.gettysburgbrewfest.com (717) 334-0853 Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, celebration, National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Aug. 23, 6-9 p.m. Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg Ann Seton, Emmitsburg, Md. The Hauser Hop at Hauser Estate Winery, www.gettysburgfoundation.org www.setonheritage.org 410 Cashtown Road, Biglerville Sept. 16, 7:30 p.m. www.hauserestate.com Tim Smith speak on the French and Indian Aug. 26, 6:30 p.m. War at the monthly educational meeting of Zumba, Sangria and Skinny Jeans at Hauser september Historic Gettysburg Adams Counth, GAR Estate Winery, 410 Cashtown Road, Sept. 5, 5-8 p.m. Building, 53 E. Middle St., Gettysburg Biglerville www.hauserestate.com Art and Music at Bluebrick Gallery, 18 www.hgaconline.org (717) 334-8312 Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m. N. Washington St., Gettysburg www. Sept. 19, 7 p.m. “The Producers” will be shown at the Majestic bluebrickgallery.com “Imagine” birthday Cabaret and 2015 season Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg Sept. 5 announcement at Gettysburg Community www.gettysburgmajestic.org First Friday will be celebrated at restaurants, Theatre, 49 York Street., Gettysburg Aug. 30 galleries and retailers throughout downtown www.gettysburgcommunitytheatre.org Art on the Hill at Hauser Estate Winery, 410 Gettysburg. Gettysburgretailmerchants.com (717) 334-2692 Cashtown Road, Biglerville Sept. 6-7 Sept. 19, 7-10 p.m. www.hauserestate.com 10th annual Gettysburg Wine and Music USO Show and Dance, New Oxford Borough Aug. 30, 6 p.m. Festival, Gateway Gettysburg, Presidential Building 124 N. Peter St., New Oxford “What in the World is a Cyclorama?” will be Circle, Gettysburg www.gettysburgwine.com (717) 624-6240 presented at the Gettysburg National Military Sept. 11-13 Sept. 20, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Park Museum and Visitor Center, Baltimore Biglerville Fall Festival, Biglerville Hose Liberation of New Oxford, a World War Pike, Gettysburg & Truck Company, South Main Street, II Re-enactment, on Center Square, New www.gettysburgfoundation.org Biglerville www.biglervillefd.org Oxford www.liberationofnewoxford.com Aug. 30, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 12-14 Sept. 20-21 Fly Casting Clinic, Strawberry Hill Nature Gettysburg National Military Park Seminar World War II Weekend, Eisenhower National Preserve, Fairfield www.strawberryhill.org “The Unfinished Work: Abraham Lincoln, Historic Site, Gettysburg www.nps.gov/eise

10 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 WHAT’S

GoinCONTINUED ’ On

Sept. 20, 12-3 p.m. Sept. 21, 12-5 p.m. Sept. 27, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; The Historic Gettysburg 23rd annual Adams County Sept. 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Adams County Architectural Salvage Heritage Festival, Gettysburg Fairfield Pippinfest, Main Street, Warehouse is open on the first block of Recreation Park, Long Lane, Gettysburg Fairfield www.pippinfest.com South Washington St., Gettysburg. Sept. 27, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 28, 8 p.m. (717) 334-8312 or (717) 677-6400 Gettysburg Fall Outdoor Antique Show, “Songs and Stories of a Civil War Hospital” at Sept. 20, 1-5 p.m. Lincoln Square and surrounding streets, Christ Lutheran Church, 30 Chambersburg Harvest Festival, Adams County Winery, Gettysburg gettysburgretailmerchants.com St., Gettysburg. (717) 334-5212 251 Peach Tree Road, Orrtanna Sept. 27, 6 p.m. Sept. 30, 6:30 p.m. www.adamscountywinery.com An Evening with the Painting at Gettysburg Zumba, Sangria and Skinny Jeans at Hauser Sept. 20-21 National Military Park Museum and Visitor Estate Winery, 410 Cashtown Road, World War II Weekend at Eisenhower Center, Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg Biglerville www.hauserestate.com National Historic Site, Gettysburg. www.gettysburgfoundation.org www.nps.gov/eise (717) 338-9114

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 11 PERSONALITY Story by Vanessa Pellechio Profile Photos by Darryl Wheelerr

12 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 Charlie Gomer Peacocks, daylilies, and teaching fill Gomer’s colorful life

harlie Gomer may be known as “Mr. Since teaching, Gomer has gotten involved “I did not realize the variety of daylilies CGomer” to his former students, spending in the community by joining the board of the there were,” Gomer continued. most of his 35 years of teaching at Gettysburg Adams County Arts Council and the Penn Gomer became a member of the American Area High School. State Master Gardeners in Adams County. Hemerocallis Society, which is a nonprofit But there is more to the 63-year-old Gomer also volunteers as an usher, reader organization looking to promote and Chambersburg native than his extensive and greeter at St. James Lutheran Church. encourage the development of daylilies. business and technology education career. Gomer has been working at the Dobbin He also joined a daylilies club in Maryland Gomer, who moved to Gettysburg in 1975, House since 1979 and still works two days where he met people “from all walks of life,” has been retired from the school district since a week. he said. June 6, 2006 and taken on other interests For the Penn State Master Gardeners “After being a teacher and being in my like growing more than 1,000 daylilies and organization, Gomer took a master gardening own little group of teachers those years, it owning 21 peacocks at his home, a pre-Civil class after retiring in 2006. was nice to meet people with totally different War house on 15 acres adjacent Little Round Students who took the 13-week course met vocational backgrounds,” Gomer said. Top. once a week for a couple of hours to discuss He started collecting daylilies in 2008 and “I did feel my service was to give students different topics from soils and pesticides the most expensive one he owns is about some kind of economic education whether it to fruits and vegetables. At the end of the $200. Gomer plans to sell his daylilies next was teaching business math or accounting,” course, students must pass the test with a year. With the extensive collection he has, Gomer said. “You could use common math score above 80 percent. the gardens are designated regional display skills in shopping, measuring portions in Gomer said he passed the test and gardens. recipes and accounting is the language of dedicated 50 hours of volunteer service Every morning, Gomer and Anne have a business.” with master gardening in the first year as a routine of drinking their cups of coffee while Gomer’s wife Anne said former students requirement. Now, the volunteer service walking through their yard to see which still approach Charlie and say how he was could not be physical work and needed to daylilies have bloomed. their favorite teacher by giving practical involve applying their knowledge from the To have the daylilies in his garden, Gomer lessons they took with them to college or course. After the first year, the requirement is needed to tear down a fence that he used for their own businesses. 20 volunteer hours. the pasture for the all the horses he owned “When I say I am Anne Gomer, people At one of his master gardening meetings, and bred over the years. always ask if I am married to Charlie Gomer,” a woman brought in pictures of daylilies and Since eighth grade, Gomer had horses and Anne said. “That is how I went through life.” described the different colors. raised show prospects. He is a life member

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 13 of the United States Equestrian Federation. As a teenager, Gomer showed horses and a story book,” with peacocks walking all “My best pony was named Stuart Little paid for at least one year of college by selling around, he said. and he was actually second in the whole horses. Gomer bought a young horse from a retired United States,” Gomer colonel and the colonel’s recalled. “He went for wife offered peacock eggs over $200,000 at one to him. Gomer’s father time.” hatched the peacock eggs Gomer explained how and Gomer bought a male it could cost thousands to peacock from him a year or show a pony a year, but two later. there were a lot of wealthy For more than 20 people who wanted their years, Gomer has owned children to have the peacocks. He is member winning pony. of the United Peafowl “I did grow attached to Association. them, but most of them Last year, Gomer went to nicer homes,” hatched 32 pea-chicks and Gomer said. “They went sold 28 in one week. to good places.” Besides the most familiar In 1996, Gomer color, India-blue, he owns realized his dream of owning horses was not Gomer said he was always looking for the bronze, midnight, peach, white, pied and feasible. There was a terrible snowstorm and next horse and heard of one in Hagerstown, cameo peacocks, but Gomer has learned it Gomer owned nine horses but only six stalls, Md., that he went to see with his mother. can be challenging to care for the young pea- he said. That is where he saw a farm “just out of chicks because they are easily susceptible to

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14 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 • Authentic Irish Shepherd’s Pie sicknesses and do not recover most of the • Fresh Shad & Shad Roe time. He continues to raise pea-chicks on his farm and sell them to this day. • Irish Lamb Steak In addition to peacocks and horses, • Eastern Shore of itzgerald’s Gomer has a soft spot for animals in need. Maryland Soft Shell Crabs F Gomer saved three stray cats that • Local Wines & Full Bar were roaming around in his barn. The hamrock three cats were taken to get their rabies shots and stay in the barn as outside cats, S Restaurant according to Gomer. since 1963 Just two years ago, Gomer and Anne rescued two Chihuahuas who were in a hording situation at a home in Chambersburg. The two lap dogs protect the house from intruders and enjoy snuggling with their owners. Gomer, who has traveled to Dubai, Australia, Hawaii, Ireland, Europe and Mexico, hopes to continue to explore the world. Lunch & Dinner Served Daily Out of all the things Gomer has done in his life, he said his biggest 301-271-2912 accomplishment is his family. He raised www.ShamrockRestaurant.com his sons Phillip and Drew, who are both 6 miles south of Mason/Dixon Line on US Route 15, Thurmont, MD independent and doing well. He is also grateful for his wife he met at Gettysburg Area School District in 1973 and got married in 1978. Gettysburg Community Theatre “It has been an interesting ride Find Your Stage Door...And Open It! throughout,” Anne said. “Charlie goes Home of the Adams County School of Musical Theatre after things wholeheartedly.” +

August 15, 16, 22 & 23 PreK - 4th Grade Performances at 7pm Production Workshop. September 12 & 13 Register online at 7pm August 17 & 24 or by phone. at 2pm September 13 & 14 Class starts August 11th. at 2pm $15 Reserved Seating Performances November 14-16, 2014 $11 Reserved Seating

Gettysburg Community Theatre, 49 York Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325 Limited Seating. Order Tickets & Register For Classes Online. www.GettysburgCommunityTheatre.org or by calling 717-334-2692

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 15 Beauty

The blue-gray gnatcatcher, known as the “Gettysburg bird,” near Spangler’s Spring. Adams County perfect for bird watching snatching a fish from the quarry lake on the many friends, but also a sharper sense of the Gettysburg College campus and a sublime world around us. Story by Jim Hale, instant when bald eagle soared over her own “I’m a birder, and I’m also very concerned PHotoS by bonita a. Portzline residence in the middle of Gettysburg and about the environment,” she said. “I want seemed to look directly at her. to do anything I can to preserve habitats She’s not the only one to experience big and make people aware of environmental birds in town. issues.” Educating the public is among the A pair of baby black vultures hatched in society’s most important missions, Locher former SMAS President Nancy Locher’s said, and public programs through the year A great blue heron near the Eisenhower Farm this past June. barn on the borough’s western edge along help further that goal. Seminary Ridge. By early July, the pale Bird habitats have been shrinking locally, puffballs had darkened and grown to the she said, pointing to the large-scale removal dams County is prime territory Important Bird Area includes the bulk of Perhaps in response to her imitation, the To top it off, within days, Portzline saw size of small dogs, big enough to thoroughly of trees to restore historic sightlines at the for birding, and the South the county, notably the wide-open spaces of sound came closer until “there was a fly-by,” a black-billed cuckoo at the Sachs Covered intimidate a reporter, who barely convinced Gettysburg National Military Park and to Mountain Audubon Society the Gettysburg National Military Park. prompting Portzline to walk 25 yards or so Bridge over Marsh Creek near Pumping himself to climb the same barn stairs that residential development. “Some areas that A(SMAS) leads the way. The SMAS website lists more than 239 into the woods. There, she said, “suddenly Station Road. That species had been on her Locher had just ascended with complete have been developed with large houses used Field trips with binoculars and cameras are species as having been reported or confirmed – it’s never slowly – a yellow-billed cuckoo wish list for some time. “I marvel at being confidence. The hatchlings’ “always an adventure - a treasure hunt,” said in the county, from the rare American bittern appeared and perched on a bare branch.” It able to see remarkable things at times,” she parents, who Locher said wildin bird photographer the Bonnie Portzline of skyto the ubiquitous European starling. was a female. said, and “I’m humbled to be able to share might defend their offspring Gettysburg. Portzline estimates she has seen “about Portzline quickly focused her camera. it with others” through photography. Some by aggressively regurgitating “Sometimes you don’t see much,” she said, four-fifths” of the local species, including No sooner had she begun shooting than 175 people attended a campfire program on the contents of their stomachs, but plenty of other times you’re “humbled” an “exquisite” sighting in July at State Game “in comes the male, into the viewfinder.” birds that Portzline gave at the national park were fortunately away by what she calls “a National Geographic Lands 249 off Old Route 15. He bore a green larva in his bill. Portzline last fall, one of many times the former SMAS somewhere searching for tasty moment.” board member and education committee road-kill. There are many such moments to be “It’s more than just looking. It’s observing their chair has presented her work to groups. Infinitely more congenial had here, said SMAS Vice President Carole “Birding has taught me I do not own was Locher’s beautiful home, Male, right, and female bald eagles near Simon. behavior and listening to their songs.” these photos,” Portzline said. “I cannot own where she perched in a Pumping Station Road in November 2009. “We have the luxury” of local bird habitats Nancy Locher, South Mountain Audubon Society them. I did not make that bird. I couldn’t set chair and observed a catbird recognized as significant by the National up the scene. I was just fortunate enough to and a downy woodpecker as they busied to be really great for birding,” said Locher, Audubon Society, she said. be blessed to be a witness to it. I must share themselves at a feeder outside a window. who formerly served as SMAS’s conservation The South Mountain Important Bird From the parking lot, she heard a cuckoo lowered the camera for an instant to them so others can appreciate and enjoy and Of course, barns and houses are not the chair. Area includes a portion of western Adams or two calling. It had been six years since glimpse the pair with her own eyes, but find significance and meaning in them for usual sites for birding. Since Locher and her Portzline too expressed concern about County and extends into the Michaux State she last sighted a member of that species. photographed them as they mated. By the themselves.” late husband Jack became charter member habitats. It’s not a matter of preserving a Forest. Luckily, she said, that cuckoo’s clucking end, the female was clutching the larva in Especially meaningful moments for of SMAS in 1981, she said she has enjoyed hobby, she said, but rather that birds are “a The Southern Adams County Grasslands sound “is the one call I can sort of make.” her bill. Portzline include a migrating osprey expertly countless field trips and gained not only canary in the coal mine,” a barometer of the

16 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 Beauty

The blue-gray gnatcatcher, known as the “Gettysburg bird,” near Spangler’s Spring. Adams County perfect for bird watching snatching a fish from the quarry lake on the many friends, but also a sharper sense of the Gettysburg College campus and a sublime world around us. Story by Jim Hale, instant when bald eagle soared over her own “I’m a birder, and I’m also very concerned PHotoS by bonita a. Portzline residence in the middle of Gettysburg and about the environment,” she said. “I want seemed to look directly at her. to do anything I can to preserve habitats She’s not the only one to experience big and make people aware of environmental birds in town. issues.” Educating the public is among the A pair of baby black vultures hatched in society’s most important missions, Locher former SMAS President Nancy Locher’s said, and public programs through the year A great blue heron near the Eisenhower Farm this past June. barn on the borough’s western edge along help further that goal. Seminary Ridge. By early July, the pale Bird habitats have been shrinking locally, puffballs had darkened and grown to the she said, pointing to the large-scale removal dams County is prime territory Important Bird Area includes the bulk of Perhaps in response to her imitation, the To top it off, within days, Portzline saw size of small dogs, big enough to thoroughly of trees to restore historic sightlines at the for birding, and the South the county, notably the wide-open spaces of sound came closer until “there was a fly-by,” a black-billed cuckoo at the Sachs Covered intimidate a reporter, who barely convinced Gettysburg National Military Park and to Mountain Audubon Society the Gettysburg National Military Park. prompting Portzline to walk 25 yards or so Bridge over Marsh Creek near Pumping himself to climb the same barn stairs that residential development. “Some areas that A(SMAS) leads the way. The SMAS website lists more than 239 into the woods. There, she said, “suddenly Station Road. That species had been on her Locher had just ascended with complete have been developed with large houses used Field trips with binoculars and cameras are species as having been reported or confirmed – it’s never slowly – a yellow-billed cuckoo wish list for some time. “I marvel at being confidence. The hatchlings’ “always an adventure - a treasure hunt,” said in the county, from the rare American bittern appeared and perched on a bare branch.” It able to see remarkable things at times,” she parents, who Locher said wildin bird photographer the Bonnie Portzline of skyto the ubiquitous European starling. was a female. said, and “I’m humbled to be able to share might defend their offspring Gettysburg. Portzline estimates she has seen “about Portzline quickly focused her camera. it with others” through photography. Some by aggressively regurgitating “Sometimes you don’t see much,” she said, four-fifths” of the local species, including No sooner had she begun shooting than 175 people attended a campfire program on the contents of their stomachs, but plenty of other times you’re “humbled” an “exquisite” sighting in July at State Game “in comes the male, into the viewfinder.” birds that Portzline gave at the national park were fortunately away by what she calls “a National Geographic Lands 249 off Old Route 15. He bore a green larva in his bill. Portzline last fall, one of many times the former SMAS somewhere searching for tasty moment.” board member and education committee road-kill. There are many such moments to be “It’s more than just looking. It’s observing their chair has presented her work to groups. Infinitely more congenial had here, said SMAS Vice President Carole “Birding has taught me I do not own was Locher’s beautiful home, Male, right, and female bald eagles near Simon. behavior and listening to their songs.” these photos,” Portzline said. “I cannot own where she perched in a Pumping Station Road in November 2009. “We have the luxury” of local bird habitats Nancy Locher, South Mountain Audubon Society them. I did not make that bird. I couldn’t set chair and observed a catbird recognized as significant by the National up the scene. I was just fortunate enough to and a downy woodpecker as they busied to be really great for birding,” said Locher, Audubon Society, she said. be blessed to be a witness to it. I must share themselves at a feeder outside a window. who formerly served as SMAS’s conservation The South Mountain Important Bird From the parking lot, she heard a cuckoo lowered the camera for an instant to them so others can appreciate and enjoy and Of course, barns and houses are not the chair. Area includes a portion of western Adams or two calling. It had been six years since glimpse the pair with her own eyes, but find significance and meaning in them for usual sites for birding. Since Locher and her Portzline too expressed concern about County and extends into the Michaux State she last sighted a member of that species. photographed them as they mated. By the themselves.” late husband Jack became charter member habitats. It’s not a matter of preserving a Forest. Luckily, she said, that cuckoo’s clucking end, the female was clutching the larva in Especially meaningful moments for of SMAS in 1981, she said she has enjoyed hobby, she said, but rather that birds are “a The Southern Adams County Grasslands sound “is the one call I can sort of make.” her bill. Portzline include a migrating osprey expertly countless field trips and gained not only canary in the coal mine,” a barometer of the

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 17 person, Bertram doesn’t keep a life list, but condition of the planet. Portzline said, noting also he does report birds he sees in the area to an However, Locher noted that vehicles can make birding online database. He prepares a yearly report that there are hopeful field trips possible for people on species sighted locally and maintains the signs as well, including the with disabilities. SMAS’s website. recognition of the county’s The mentors for Simon “I like the challenge of seeing and Important Bird Areas as well were her grandmother and identifying birds,” said Bertram, but “I’m as the Land Conservancy of great-aunt, who planted the more interested in the wider, ecological side Adams County’s longstanding seed as she was growing up in of things.” efforts to preserve the area’s Ohio. Getting kids interested Discovering more about that topic is one rural character. early can provide lifelong A red-bellied woodpecker A killdeer at Gettysburg of the attractions of the Audubon Society, Portzline is heartened near Sachs Bridge. College’s Quarry Lake. rewards, she said. he said. Through SMAS, he said he has not by birds’ adaptive powers, For example, SMAS only found congenial, like-minded people, exemplified by red-tailed member Mike Bertram has but has also gained the opportunity to share hawks keeping their eyes been intrigued by birds since their knowledge. “I’ve learned an awful lot peeled for prey from atop about age 8, when he lived in from people, and I’m always happy when utility poles to an upland England. He said his parents I’m learning,” he said. sandpiper atop a wooden instilled in him “an interest His observations often underscore post along Pumping Station in nature generally,” which is Road. still going strong years later Interest in birds runs deep and thousands of miles away. in the county. The SMAS Getting to know bird includes some 30 active populations on both sides members, Simon said, but of the Atlantic has revealed interesting “parallels and subscribers to the National Northern cardinal males in June. Audubon Society’s magazine Photo By Peter Eastman differences,” Bertram said. total roughly 300 in Adams A house finch at the home Some British and American the relationship between birds and the A cedar waxwing this year. County. of Nancy Locher in May. species are so similar “you environment as a whole. For example, a Over her career as birder, couldn’t tell them apart,” he couple of years ago, a huge population of Locher has seen wonderful territory. Birds from different regions even said, but others share only a big grasshoppers appeared in his yard. Like things, from recently viewing the mating have different “dialects,” Portzline said. name. He said he misses the English robin, magic, a hawk materialized and began displays of sage grouse and prairie chickens “Birds from the South talk slower.” which he described as a more active bird with gorging on the insects. Soon, an entirely in Colorado to witnessing cranes dancing “There’s a lot to learn, to recognize and a broader repertoire of lively behaviors. different species joined the feast. The in the snow on Hokkaido, Japan’s second- identify birds, and you can be too anxious That’s not to say, however, that he hasn’t newcomer was flightless and lacked feathers: largest island. about taking it all in,” Portzline said. “It’s a seen amazing things since moving to it was a fox. The roster of species Locher has personally process not only of discovery – you don’t get Shippensburg Road some four years ago. Birding “provides a calmness,” Simon sighted – her “life list” as birders call it – to see everything when you want to – but of The local turkeys are fond of his yard, said, “a sense of peace, a break away from stands at roughly 2,800. “I’ve been at this a retaining information and picking up hints he said, and even fonder of his back door, the chaos and trouble and stress in life. It’s while, you know,” she said. from other birders.” where they peck the glass after mistaking the same as gardening. Gardening and birds What keeps someone active in birding for Mentoring by a more advanced birder their own reflections for other birds. “They’re go hand in hand. Enjoying the birds is a lot decades? can be crucial for a beginner, said Portzline, not just tapping gently,” said Bertram, like enjoying flowers.” “Part of it is their beauty,” Locher said, but who first really committed herself to birding who eventually forestalled the problem by Anyone interested in gaining peace, “it’s more than just looking. It’s observing about 2000, when a “great friend” acted as applying decals to the glass. enjoying beauty, finding friends, and their behavior and listening to their songs.” her mentor. Since then, Portzline said, she Bertram treasures the sighting of preserving the environment is welcome “Musicality” is part of birding’s attraction, hopes she has learned enough to be her hundreds of nighthawks against the sky to join SMAS. Attending a public said Portzline, who is herself an accomplished friend’s “peer” and a birder. The pair still along Shippensburg Road. The heavily educational event or field trip is a great pianist and singer. While she captures birds routinely go out together, with the friend camouflaged birds usually hide in vegetation, way to start, Simon said. Information, with her lens, she noted that other birders always willing to relocate the car or shut off but sometimes gather in big groups when including event and meeting are dedicated to recording their songs, which the engine to ensure a great, vibration-free it’s time to migrate. schedules, is on the society’s website at play a key role in competition for mates and shot. “Cars are a pretty good bird blind,” Though he is a numbers and computer southmountainaudubon.org.

18 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 person, Bertram doesn’t keep a life list, but Open Sunday-Thursday 8 am-10 pm condition of the planet. Portzline said, noting also he does report birds he sees in the area to an Friday-Saturday 8 am-11 pm However, Locher noted that vehicles can make birding online database. He prepares a yearly report that there are hopeful field trips possible for people on species sighted locally and maintains the 10% Senior Discount signs as well, including the with disabilities. SMAS’s website. on Entrees recognition of the county’s The mentors for Simon “I like the challenge of seeing and Important Bird Areas as well were her grandmother and All Day Every Day identifying birds,” said Bertram, but “I’m as the Land Conservancy of great-aunt, who planted the more interested in the wider, ecological side Adams County’s longstanding seed as she was growing up in of things.” efforts to preserve the area’s Ohio. Getting kids interested early can provide lifelong Discovering more about that topic is one rural character. A red-bellied woodpecker A killdeer at Gettysburg rewards, she said. of the attractions of the Audubon Society, Portzline is heartened near Sachs Bridge. College’s Quarry Lake. 717-337-1426 • 445 STEINWEHR AVENUE, GETTYSBURG • WWW.FRIENDLYS.COM he said. Through SMAS, he said he has not by birds’ adaptive powers, For example, SMAS only found congenial, like-minded people, exemplified by red-tailed member Mike Bertram has but has also gained the opportunity to share 106 W. Cabin Hollow Rd., hawks keeping their eyes been intrigued by birds since their knowledge. “I’ve learned an awful lot Dillsburg, 17019 peeled for prey from atop about age 8, when he lived in (1.2 miles from Northern HS in a country setting) from people, and I’m always happy when utility poles to an upland England. He said his parents I’m learning,” he said. (717) sandpiper atop a wooden instilled in him “an interest 432-2513 His observations often underscore post along Pumping Station in nature generally,” which is Monday to Saturday Road. still going strong years later 8am - 10:30pm Interest in birds runs deep and thousands of miles away. Sundays by appointment in the county. The SMAS Getting to know bird includes some 30 active populations on both sides Compassionate Care for You & Your Pet 365 Days a Year! members, Simon said, but of the Atlantic has revealed interesting “parallels and www.TimberViewVet.com subscribers to the National Northern cardinal males in June. Audubon Society’s magazine Photo By Peter Eastman differences,” Bertram said. total roughly 300 in Adams A house finch at the home Some British and American the relationship between birds and the A cedar waxwing this year. County. of Nancy Locher in May. species are so similar “you environment as a whole. For example, a couple of years ago, a huge population of Clingan’s Over her career as birder, couldn’t tell them apart,” he lawn care Locher has seen wonderful territory. Birds from different regions even said, but others share only a big grasshoppers appeared in his yard. Like things, from recently viewing the mating have different “dialects,” Portzline said. name. He said he misses the English robin, magic, a hawk materialized and began QUALITY & DEPENDABLE SERVICE RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL displays of sage grouse and prairie chickens “Birds from the South talk slower.” which he described as a more active bird with gorging on the insects. Soon, an entirely MOWING • MULCHING Accepting in Colorado to witnessing cranes dancing “There’s a lot to learn, to recognize and a broader repertoire of lively behaviors. different species joined the feast. The New Contracts NOW! 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It’s while, you know,” she said. from other birders.” where they peck the glass after mistaking the same as gardening. Gardening and birds What keeps someone active in birding for Mentoring by a more advanced birder their own reflections for other birds. “They’re go hand in hand. Enjoying the birds is a lot decades? can be crucial for a beginner, said Portzline, not just tapping gently,” said Bertram, like enjoying flowers.” Adams County’s “Part of it is their beauty,” Locher said, but who first really committed herself to birding who eventually forestalled the problem by Anyone interested in gaining peace, “it’s more than just looking. It’s observing about 2000, when a “great friend” acted as applying decals to the glass. enjoying beauty, finding friends, and Best News Source their behavior and listening to their songs.” her mentor. Since then, Portzline said, she Bertram treasures the sighting of preserving the environment is welcome “Musicality” is part of birding’s attraction, hopes she has learned enough to be her hundreds of nighthawks against the sky to join SMAS. Attending a public said Portzline, who is herself an accomplished friend’s “peer” and a birder. The pair still along Shippensburg Road. The heavily educational event or field trip is a great pianist and singer. While she captures birds routinely go out together, with the friend camouflaged birds usually hide in vegetation, way to start, Simon said. Information, with her lens, she noted that other birders always willing to relocate the car or shut off but sometimes gather in big groups when including event and meeting are dedicated to recording their songs, which the engine to ensure a great, vibration-free it’s time to migrate. schedules, is on the society’s website at play a key role in competition for mates and shot. “Cars are a pretty good bird blind,” Though he is a numbers and computer southmountainaudubon.org. TO SUBSCRIBE CALL 717-339-2063

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 19 For The

Love of the Game South Penn Baseball keeps ball players active Story by Scot Andrew Pitzer

They are regular people, still enjoying America’s pastime. By day, they are businessmen, fathers, husbands, fruit growers and blue collar professionals. At night, they are fearless sluggers, hard-throwing pitchers and skilled defenders playing baseball in the South Penn League. “Everybody is here for the same reason, it’s the love of the game,” says Cashtown Pirates Manager Matt Rebert. “I love the game at this level. It’s not that I don’t like watching the Baltimore Orioles, I just like being with the guys because they love playing baseball.” The league is made up of recreational teams from south- central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. Most players are in their 20s and 30s. Today, seven squads compete for glory on small-town diamonds throughout the area, in a grueling four-month, 30-game schedule, with weekday and weekend games.

20 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 The season concludes with a post-season When the Black Sox experienced some down champions, or teams that have built dynasties over tournament, when a champion is crowned. years following a championship run through the years. “We play competitively and we might get 2004, Biglerville Player-Manager Kyle Knouse DYNASTIES feisty, but at the end of the game, everyone shakes saw declining interest. hands,” says 27-year-old Biglerville Assistant “The better we do in the league, the more guys The Littlestown Dodgers won 12 straight titles Player-Manager Ashton Taughinbaugh, who has that want to play for us,” says Knouse. “If you’re from 1978-1989. They were supplanted by the been playing baseball for 20 years. playing at the bottom or getting knocked out in Taneytown Cardinals, who appeared in seven the first round of the playoffs, they’re not super- consecutive championship series from 1990- THE LOVE OF THE GAME excited to play.” 1997, winning five titles. “It’s a laid-back group of guys, and you can tell Meckley recalls an “intimidation factor” any right away that they all love the game,” Rebert says time his New Oxford Twins would face Littlestown regarding the South Penn League. “They know it’s in the 1980s or Taneytown in the 1990s. as far as they want to go in their career and they “When you went to Littlestown then, their fans don’t expect to move onto another level.” were all over the foul lines. It would get boisterous Biglerville Black Sox slugger James Yingling and loud,” says Meckley. “If you made an error, has been playing baseball since he was six years the fans would be on you. If you struck out, the old. He is currently in his fourth season in Apple fans would boo and heckle you.” “As a teenager, it Town, after stints with Mummasburg and Cash- was definitely intimidating,” adds Meckley. “But town. Yingling admits that this season may be his looking back, it was exciting at the same time.” last, so he tries to savor each minute. “I still love it When Taneytown was the league’s dominant as much as I did when I started playing baseball as squad, the Cardinals frequently tried to run up the a kid,” says Yingling. “It’s like the Kevin Costner score and embarrass the opposition. “They tried to movie to me, For the Love of the Game. That’s score 15 runs every night. It really got your juices why I play - - - I love baseball.” THROWING PUNCHES running,” says Meckley. The Biglerville Black Sox won four crowns The league traditionally features anywhere The longtime president and commissioner from 1999-2003, appearing in five championship from eight to 10 teams. Currently, there are seven of the league, Parker Lerew, notes that the series. Hanover appeared in four championship squads competing throughout the season, from competitive spirit wasn’t always gentlemanly on finals from 2003-2006, winning the whole bundle mid-May until early August: the Biglerville Black the field. In fact, in the 1960s and 1970s, “the twice. Sox, Brushtown Bulldogs, Cashtown Pirates, townspeople went home disappointed” if a fight The Brushtown Bulldogs won four straight Hanover Raiders, Littlestown Dodgers, North didn’t break out during a game. titles beginning in 2005. They were supplanted Carroll Panthers and the New Oxford Twins. “Back then, there was a different mindset. by the New Oxford Twins, winners of three titles There wasn’t a team that didn‘t like to fight,” FIGHTING FOR FIRST between 2009-2012. Lerew explains about the “old days” of the South Teams are able to remain at the top by building Sportsmanship is paramount throughout the Penn League. “These were grown men, yelling at a strong core of youth, and allowing that nucleus league. However, when teams step onto the field, each every night. They were reliving their high to mature. their competitive spirit takes over. school glory days, and fighting for their towns, so “The constant influx of new players helps keep “One of the things that has always stood out to they wanted to win at any cost.” parity in the league,” explains Meckley. “When a me in my 28 years is that there has always been Sportsmanship replaced fights when the “old team gets a good core and can keep them together a team at the top that is the clear-cut team to guard moved on and retired.” “When the World a while, that spawns success. They all stick around beat, whether it’s been Littlestown in the 1980s, War II guys stopped playing and the Baby and mature together.” Taneytown in the 1990s, Biglerville in the early Boomers came in, the fights stopped and the 2000s, or New Oxford during our run,” says Ox games became more civil to what we have today,” HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Manager Scott Meckley. “It goes in waves. The rest says Lerew. The 66-year-old Lerew didn’t know much of the league is always doing what they can do to Now, while it’s not as hard-core as it used to be, about the league in 1967, when he was 19-years catch that front-runner.” teams still play to win. old and joined the Arendtsville Apple Knockers. The competitive spirit personifies the league. “Back in the earlier days, every game mattered He quickly fell in love with the competition and “Win, lose or draw, it doesn’t bother a lot of the like it was life or death,” laughs Meckley. “It’s not local flavor. guys anymore. I’m part of the old regime though, winner takes all anymore. You realize that baseball “I was just looking for something to do and I like to win every game,“ says Rebert. “That’s just is fun, and it’s still the game you learned as a kid.” stay active,” says Lerew, who previously worked as the way I was raised. We’re still there to try and It is not uncommon for opposing players to a Minor League umpire. His South Penn playing win every game that we play.” enjoy a cold beverage after the game together, career spanned 1967-1977, with one year off, Rivalries are prevalent in the South Penn either. “Now, it seems there is a lot more of before he became league president. He’s held the League. Take 22-year-old Sam Wertz, for example, camaraderie among the teams,” says Meckley. position for 37 years. “The rest is history,” laughs who pitches for the Littlestown Dodgers, but faces “I enjoy winning baseball games as much as the Latimore Township resident. many players from his home town when his squad anybody, but once the game ends, you can make Meckley is in his 28th year in the league, faces North Carroll, Md. “It gets competitive,” some friends, whether it’s the relationships with although his playing career didn’t blossom until said Wertz. “That’s what I love about it, I don’t your team or the guys wearing the other uniform. late in his high school years. He didn’t even enjoy want to lose to those guys.” It’s what I like most about league right now.” baseball as a child, when he cried before youth A team’s ability to compete for championships Now, the competitive nature of the league games. “I just hated it,” he recalls. “I had a lot directly affects player participation and depth. is geared toward knocking off the reigning

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 21 more fun in the backyard playing wiffleball and the South Penn League for Littlestown since he home run derby,” says Meckley, who didn’t start was 18. He grew up in the Gettysburg youth For The playing competitive baseball until his sophomore leagues, before attending Delone Catholic. Now, year at Delone Catholic. he’s one of the oldest players on his squad. “It’s Love When Meckley resumed playing baseball a learning experience for me, taking a leadership of the in high school, he was recruited to the South role,” says Hutchinson, who plays catcher for the Game Penn League in 1987 by McSherrystown Twins Dodgers. “There is a lot of accountability,” adds Manager Jack Greenholt. Meckley immediately Hutchinson. “You’re part of something special fell in love with the comradeship in the dugout. when you’re in the dugout.” The Twins moved to New Oxford in 1989, Knouse has been playing competitive baseball where Meckley has served as the club’s manager since he was 10 years old in Little League. The since 2008. He also swings a bat from time to 33 year-old started his South Penn Career when time, although it’s infrequent. he was a junior at Biglerville High, where he “I knew that the end of my playing days, at graduated in 1999. He took over managerial least as a regular, were coming to an end in my duties for the Black Sox in 2004 when he was 23. late 30s, so that’s why I got into managing,” says The squad was concluding a championship run the now 44-year old Meckley. “I knew I could still and team veterans were beginning to step away play competitively, but I knew I didn’t have to be from the game. one of the core nine guys, and I could still stay “There are points that any team goes through, involved as the manager.” where if you want to continue, someone has to Meckley is often asked when he plans to hang step up and take over leadership duties,” says up his cleats. Not any time soon, he replies, Knouse, a Delaware Valley College graduate. “My because the fire still burns. “I think I’ve played time will end, and someone else will step up. It so long because I never got burned out,” says happens everywhere.” Meckley. “As a youth and a teenager, I never really played. I was still learning how to play when I was SMALL-TOWN AMERICA in my 20s and 30s.” When the league began, there was representation from small towns throughout Adams County YOUTH MOVEMENT and northern Maryland. Townspeople from each The core of the league is represented by the community would set up lawn chairs along the everyday working populace, such as Rebert, a foul lines, and root for their favorite 1996 graduate of Gettysburg High. He works in children, grandchildren, nieces and the mason business with his father and brother in nephews. The community spirit still Orrtanna, and manages the Cashtown squad in occurs today. the spring and summer. “You have a connection with the Rebert attributes the longevity of the league to community and the home town,” the infusion of youth, who tend to join the league says Knouse, who lives in Upper in their high school and college years. Adams with his expectant wife “It seems like the older group is starting to get Lindsay, and first daughter. fewer and fewer,” said Rebert, 35. “There are a lot Knouse’s roster is primarily of younger players stepping into leadership roles.” comprised of Biglerville High High school players join the league to keep graduates. “That’s a big part of our their skills sharp, while college kids participate connection with the community,” says Knouse. to hone their craft. The majority of the league’s “It’s town pride, in a way.” core is made up of players who are done playing Rebert believes the community spirit inspires scholastically and looking for a place to play his squad. “There are so many players whose recreationally. parents and relatives played for Cashtown, and our The season doesn’t even start until mid-May to generation stepped up to carry on the tradition,” allow college students to join rosters. he says. “Guys were playing into their 50s when the Rebert fondly recalls attending Cashtown league started,” reminisces Lerew. games as a child with his father. It peaked his The late Grafton Wagner was among the rare interest in the South Penn League, as he enjoyed breeds, as he played competitive baseball for seven watching family and friends play baseball well into decades, including a final stint with the recently their adult years. folded Mummasburg Mets. Wagner played “My thought was that, maybe some day, I’ll be into his 60s, and threw his final pitch in 2010. good enough to play there,” says Rebert, an 18- “Grafton was an ambassador of the sport,” says year league veteran, who has managed the Pirates Lerew. for 14 years. Twenty-three year old Delone Catholic The sport was such a passion for Rebert that he graduate Matt Hutchinson has been playing in and a group of friends re-launched the Cashtown

22 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 team in 2000, after it folded in the 1990s. “I played Six Packs Join us for generous helpings on the Cashtown field during youth baseball, so it To Go! of great home-cooked foods was always a field of dreams,” says Rebert. served in a friendly, MEMORABLE MOMENTS family atmosphere. There have been many fond memories during Meckley’s near three-decade career, including • Daily Specials • Breakfast • watching one of his teammates get married before • Lunch • Dinner • a game. The minister dressed up as an umpire, and ~ Separate Lounge ~ the bride and groom walked under bats during the Our History Is Serving Good Food... ceremony. Also, his great uncle, Dick Meckley, helped 1275 York Rd., Peebles Plaza • 717-337-2700 launch the Twins in the 1950s, and served as an Hours: Monday - Saturday 6am-9pm, Sunday 7am-8pm assistant coach through the 1990s. He was asked to throw out a ceremonial first pitch during a championship series between Taneytown and New Oxford in the 1990s. Above all else, Meckley will never forget the GET YOUR ALPACA ON! squad’s three championships in 2009-2010 ALPACAS FOR SALE Relax • Have Fun and 2012. “It’s a lasting memory,” Meckley says including our new cria (babies). Fresh  ber-to- nish products for sale. Make New Friends regarding the team’s glory years. “We finally got MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Plan to visit Quarry Critt ers Alpaca Ranch over the hump and won our first championship. It Saturday, September 27 10:00 - 3:00 was very meaningful to finally earn what we had to Celebrate National Alpaca Farm Days chased so long as a group.” Call To Schedule A Knouse concurs regarding championship glory. Visit To The Ranch! Wins create the most lasting memories. “Taneytown was the dominant team when I QUARRY CRITTERS ALPACA RANCH “Satisfying Dreams One Fiber At A Time” started, and when we finally took them down and 580 Basehoar Rd., Littlestown, PA 17340 • 717-359-9989 ended their run, we had the target on our back. It www.quarrycrittersalpacas.com was a great memory,” says Knouse. THE FUTURE Knouse and Rebert liken the league to lower- level Minor League baseball, except that no one Home and Condo Rentals makes any money at this stage. It truly is for the On & Near Beautiful Ocean City Maryland! love of the game. “There are times when you can say, man these North Beach Realtors® offers a wide selec- guys are just as good as seeing the York Revolution,” tion of condominium and beach house rentals says Rebert, “and there are other times that for your next Ocean City vacation. Book weekly make you laugh and understand why they’re in stays as well as mini-weeks. Cashtown. You really don’t see it anywhere else.” Knouse adds: “There are good athletes, and Reservations available online, by e-mail or phone! guys making plays that you’d see at a minor league stadium. We’re not as big and not as fast, but it’s Let us find you the perfect place to stay still competitive baseball.” for your next vacation get-a-way! Teams are responsible for buying their own uniforms, bats, gloves, cleats and other equipment. Experience Ocean City, MD They must also find their own transportation for road contests. T Fantastic Fishing T Great Golf Games are free to fans, however most teams do T Nature Cruises T Dining Delights ask for donations. T Water Sports T Fun and Sun The league has always had peaks and valleys as far as participation and membership. Attracting a younger generation is key to the longevity and sustainability of the league. “I think there will always be recreational baseball in this area, as long as baseball maintains its status 800-331-5755 quo as America’s past time,” says Lerew. “It’s local [email protected] baseball, it’s local spirit and it’s town pride.” www.northbeachrealtors.com

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 23 benefit Four Diamonds, and Simon saw the trip to Gettysburg. One family in particular perfect opportunity to make his music fes- has both a son and a daughter who play in tival come to life. different bands, so the whole family is pack- The inaugural event, held February 7-8, ing up their RV and making the most of Gettysburg raised about $14,000 for the Mont Alto their trip, Simon said. THON, and Simon said he hopes to at “Some make a destination out of it,” he least match this total in August. said. RocksReturns Story By Ashley Andyshak Hayes

“I couldn’t wait a whole year to do it While the name suggests a focus on rock again,” he said. “Through the whole pro- bands, Simon said the festival will include cess, I learned a lot about Four Diamonds country, folk, blues, Americana, and even and the people who run it. It’s very satisfy- some ska and reggae. Each of the 17 par- ing to have it all come together and have it ticipating venues lends itself to a different be successful.” type of music, so the weekend isn’t just for Music is a passion for Simon; he has rock fans, he said. fronted his own original rock band, Rob- All of the shows are free and open to the bing Noll, for 16 years. He also has his public, although age restrictions apply for Gettysburg-wide music festival has own weekly show, “Under the Radar,” on some venues. Simon said the majority of A been on Rob Simon’s mind for some “The way Harrisburg-based rock station 105.7 The the proceeds from the event come from cash time. X. The show features local rock bands, and donations made at the shows; venue owners The dream became a reality in February, Gettysburg is set Simon said many of these bands will play at and corporate sponsors also contribute. bringing more than 125 bands to the area Gettysburg Rocks. Simon said he envisions Gettysburg Rocks for a three-day weekend of music. up, it should be a “It’s not just about charity; it’s about becoming a regular semi-annual event, serv- Simon is doing it again in August, bring- music and musicians,” Simon said. Most ing as an “exclamation point” for the grow- ing close to 180 bands to Adams County music town.” of the scheduled bands play their own ing music scene in the Gettysburg area. August 8-10 for a second “Gettysburg ~ Rob Simon original music, so the festival is a chance “The way Gettysburg is set up, it should Rocks” weekend. for them to showcase their talents in front be a music town,” he said. “It’s just ideal; it And just like in February, the festival is of new audiences. The August event will just has a feel to it that makes it the perfect “For the Kids,” with all proceeds to benefit cancer research. on the campus’ organizing committee for feature bands from 13 states as well as the place for something like this. It creates an the Four Diamonds Fund at the Penn State Simon said the partnership with the Four THON, the university’s annual dance mar- United Kingdom, some of which were re- energy...the history mixed with the music.” Hershey Children’s Hospital. Four Dia- Diamonds Fund was inspired by his daugh- athon that has raised millions of dollars for cruited through an ad on the artist website For a full list of Gettysburg Rocks monds provides care and support for chil- ter, Ashley, who was a student at Penn State the Four Diamonds Fund. She approached ReverbNation.com. performances and venues, visit dren fighting cancer, and funds pediatric University’s Mont Alto campus. Ashley was Simon about organizing a show or event to For some, the festival will be their first gburgrocks.com.

24 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 benefit Four Diamonds, and Simon saw the trip to Gettysburg. One family in particular perfect opportunity to make his music fes- has both a son and a daughter who play in tival come to life. different bands, so the whole family is pack- The inaugural event, held February 7-8, ing up their RV and making the most of Gettysburg raised about $14,000 for the Mont Alto their trip, Simon said. THON, and Simon said he hopes to at “Some make a destination out of it,” he least match this total in August. said. RocksReturns Story By Ashley Andyshak Hayes

“I couldn’t wait a whole year to do it While the name suggests a focus on rock again,” he said. “Through the whole pro- bands, Simon said the festival will include cess, I learned a lot about Four Diamonds country, folk, blues, Americana, and even and the people who run it. It’s very satisfy- some ska and reggae. Each of the 17 par- ing to have it all come together and have it ticipating venues lends itself to a different be successful.” type of music, so the weekend isn’t just for Music is a passion for Simon; he has rock fans, he said. fronted his own original rock band, Rob- All of the shows are free and open to the bing Noll, for 16 years. He also has his public, although age restrictions apply for Gettysburg-wide music festival has own weekly show, “Under the Radar,” on some venues. Simon said the majority of A been on Rob Simon’s mind for some “The way Harrisburg-based rock station 105.7 The the proceeds from the event come from cash time. X. The show features local rock bands, and donations made at the shows; venue owners The dream became a reality in February, Gettysburg is set Simon said many of these bands will play at and corporate sponsors also contribute. bringing more than 125 bands to the area Gettysburg Rocks. Simon said he envisions Gettysburg Rocks for a three-day weekend of music. up, it should be a “It’s not just about charity; it’s about becoming a regular semi-annual event, serv- Simon is doing it again in August, bring- music and musicians,” Simon said. Most ing as an “exclamation point” for the grow- ing close to 180 bands to Adams County music town.” of the scheduled bands play their own ing music scene in the Gettysburg area. August 8-10 for a second “Gettysburg ~ Rob Simon original music, so the festival is a chance “The way Gettysburg is set up, it should Rocks” weekend. for them to showcase their talents in front be a music town,” he said. “It’s just ideal; it And just like in February, the festival is of new audiences. The August event will just has a feel to it that makes it the perfect “For the Kids,” with all proceeds to benefit cancer research. on the campus’ organizing committee for feature bands from 13 states as well as the place for something like this. It creates an the Four Diamonds Fund at the Penn State Simon said the partnership with the Four THON, the university’s annual dance mar- United Kingdom, some of which were re- energy...the history mixed with the music.” Hershey Children’s Hospital. Four Dia- Diamonds Fund was inspired by his daugh- athon that has raised millions of dollars for cruited through an ad on the artist website For a full list of Gettysburg Rocks monds provides care and support for chil- ter, Ashley, who was a student at Penn State the Four Diamonds Fund. She approached ReverbNation.com. performances and venues, visit dren fighting cancer, and funds pediatric University’s Mont Alto campus. Ashley was Simon about organizing a show or event to For some, the festival will be their first gburgrocks.com.

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 25 thought it would be a great way to meet accepted to become Women’s Flat Track better on and off the track. new people. Roller Derby Association apprentices, and The Rollers aren’t just known for their “It was love at first sight,” she said. then again when they became full fledged time on the track, they are also involved in In roller derby, there are five players to a members. She considers herself a stronger many charitable endeavors. side. One player is the scorer, or jammer, person since joining the league. In June, several members of the league while the other four are blockers. Points “There’s something about taking a hit were involved in a burger battle against are scored when jammers lap members of that knocks you off your feet,” she said. the York City Police at Smokey Bones the opposing team. Blockers try to clear “Your mental and emotional defeats don’t Bar and Grill in York. Though the Rollers the way for their jammer, while trying to seem as important when juxtaposed with lost the four-burger, four-person relay, the prohibit the opposing scorer from night was a success as all winnings advancing. were donated to a group of pastors Underwood is a blocker, who “I have never met who volunteer as chaplains for the said she’s invested her blood, a more gracious, police department. sweat and tears into the league The group also gets together and credits other players for team oriented and on weekends for events like making it a success. the “bike wash” it held July Alter egos on wheels “I have never met a more accepting group of 12 at Sharpshooter’s Grille in Roller Derby empowers women gracious, team oriented and Gettysburg. accepting group of women in my According to “Flat Track” Story by Jarrad Hedes, Photos by John Armstrong women in my life.” life,” she said. statistics, the Rollers currently rank Like many Rollers, BY ~ KIm Underwood 126th in the Women’s Flat Track O. Hazard, real name Lacey Roller Derby Association. They are y day they are working women with “Some may think the movie gives derby a positive social environment for Adams, learned about the league from an the physical obstacles you take on weekly 6-2 so far this season. Bjobs like movie theater manager, part- a bad image, but I don’t think I would now women, encourage personal growth and advertisement, this one in a newspaper, and at practices and in games.” The Rollers last home match of the 2014 time welder and graphic designer, and derby existed if it weren’t for ‘Whip It,’” sportsmanship among all members and picked her name based on her Bachelor of With the physical nature of the sport do season is Nov. 2. against Diamond State. technical writer for a software company. Underwood said. supporters, and aim to improve and inspire Science degree and biology. come injuries. Dennis has suffered a broken At night they have names like Gogo The league name stems back to the our community and its surrounding areas She said her friends and family love arm. Underwood was kicked in the face by Tenenbomb, Dennis the Menace and By “Black Rose” which the royal family would through these means.” roller derby and have always supported her a skate at a scrimmage. Mace In Ya Face, or O Hazard. don when the German city of Hanover was Kate Dennis, or Dennis the Menace, has playing the sport. Macy Keefer, left with a minor contusion What brings them together when the under English rule. an athletic background having played field “I’m very competitive and have always in her left knee after a 2012 bout. sun goes down? Roller derby. Soon after forming, the Rollers added hockey in high school, but her first skating been an athlete,” said Adams, who has “My mom is totally supportive,” Keefer The Black Rose Rollers, a derby league referees and its first two teams, the Rotten experience came in May 2010 when she more than 10 years experience playing said of her participation in the sport. “My based in Hanover, formed in May 2010 by Cherries and the All-Stars. They played joined the Rollers. both soccer and basketball. “I love the grandparents freak out a little but they a group of friends, led by Kim Underwood, their first public bout in 2011. With Dennis being her last name, that friendships and sense of family in the have always been my number one fans.” or Gogo Tenenbomb. The Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby part of her derby name came easy, but the Rollers.” Keefer said her previous skating Underwood said “she was inspired by Association accepted the Rollers as a full- rest? The Rollers play against teams such as experience is limited to roller blading the movie Whip It,” a 2009 flick, starring member league in 2012. “I think I’m about as annoying as that the Harrisburg Area Roller Derby Fall Out jaunts on the front porch and a few middle Ellen Page and Drew Barrymore, about a Bouts run February through November, kid in the comic strip,” she said. Femmes, the Lehigh Valley Roller Girls school skating parties. shy, quiet girl who breaks out of her shell with home contests at the Magic Elm Dennis saw a flyer for the Rollers in a and the Mason-Dixon Roller Vixens. She said roller derby gives her something when she joins a nearby women’s roller Skateland in Conewago Township. bar and having moved back home after Dennis said one of her best moments to look forward to at the end of a long day derby league. Their mission statement is to “create attending college in New York City, she with the Rollers came when they were and her teammates motivate her to be

26 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 thought it would be a great way to meet accepted to become Women’s Flat Track better on and off the track. new people. Roller Derby Association apprentices, and The Rollers aren’t just known for their “It was love at first sight,” she said. then again when they became full fledged time on the track, they are also involved in In roller derby, there are five players to a members. She considers herself a stronger many charitable endeavors. side. One player is the scorer, or jammer, person since joining the league. In June, several members of the league while the other four are blockers. Points “There’s something about taking a hit were involved in a burger battle against are scored when jammers lap members of that knocks you off your feet,” she said. the York City Police at Smokey Bones the opposing team. Blockers try to clear “Your mental and emotional defeats don’t Bar and Grill in York. Though the Rollers the way for their jammer, while trying to seem as important when juxtaposed with lost the four-burger, four-person relay, the prohibit the opposing scorer from night was a success as all winnings advancing. were donated to a group of pastors Underwood is a blocker, who “I have never met who volunteer as chaplains for the said she’s invested her blood, a more gracious, police department. sweat and tears into the league The group also gets together and credits other players for team oriented and on weekends for events like making it a success. the “bike wash” it held July Alter egos on wheels “I have never met a more accepting group of 12 at Sharpshooter’s Grille in Roller Derby empowers women gracious, team oriented and Gettysburg. accepting group of women in my According to “Flat Track” Story by Jarrad Hedes, Photos by John Armstrong women in my life.” life,” she said. statistics, the Rollers currently rank Like many Rollers, BY ~ KIm Underwood 126th in the Women’s Flat Track O. Hazard, real name Lacey Roller Derby Association. They are y day they are working women with “Some may think the movie gives derby a positive social environment for Adams, learned about the league from an the physical obstacles you take on weekly 6-2 so far this season. Bjobs like movie theater manager, part- a bad image, but I don’t think I would now women, encourage personal growth and advertisement, this one in a newspaper, and at practices and in games.” The Rollers last home match of the 2014 time welder and graphic designer, and derby existed if it weren’t for ‘Whip It,’” sportsmanship among all members and picked her name based on her Bachelor of With the physical nature of the sport do season is Nov. 2. against Diamond State. technical writer for a software company. Underwood said. supporters, and aim to improve and inspire Science degree and biology. come injuries. Dennis has suffered a broken At night they have names like Gogo The league name stems back to the our community and its surrounding areas She said her friends and family love arm. Underwood was kicked in the face by Tenenbomb, Dennis the Menace and By “Black Rose” which the royal family would through these means.” roller derby and have always supported her a skate at a scrimmage. Mace In Ya Face, or O Hazard. don when the German city of Hanover was Kate Dennis, or Dennis the Menace, has playing the sport. Macy Keefer, left with a minor contusion What brings them together when the under English rule. an athletic background having played field “I’m very competitive and have always in her left knee after a 2012 bout. sun goes down? Roller derby. Soon after forming, the Rollers added hockey in high school, but her first skating been an athlete,” said Adams, who has “My mom is totally supportive,” Keefer The Black Rose Rollers, a derby league referees and its first two teams, the Rotten experience came in May 2010 when she more than 10 years experience playing said of her participation in the sport. “My based in Hanover, formed in May 2010 by Cherries and the All-Stars. They played joined the Rollers. both soccer and basketball. “I love the grandparents freak out a little but they a group of friends, led by Kim Underwood, their first public bout in 2011. With Dennis being her last name, that friendships and sense of family in the have always been my number one fans.” or Gogo Tenenbomb. The Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby part of her derby name came easy, but the Rollers.” Keefer said her previous skating Underwood said “she was inspired by Association accepted the Rollers as a full- rest? The Rollers play against teams such as experience is limited to roller blading the movie Whip It,” a 2009 flick, starring member league in 2012. “I think I’m about as annoying as that the Harrisburg Area Roller Derby Fall Out jaunts on the front porch and a few middle Ellen Page and Drew Barrymore, about a Bouts run February through November, kid in the comic strip,” she said. Femmes, the Lehigh Valley Roller Girls school skating parties. shy, quiet girl who breaks out of her shell with home contests at the Magic Elm Dennis saw a flyer for the Rollers in a and the Mason-Dixon Roller Vixens. She said roller derby gives her something when she joins a nearby women’s roller Skateland in Conewago Township. bar and having moved back home after Dennis said one of her best moments to look forward to at the end of a long day derby league. Their mission statement is to “create attending college in New York City, she with the Rollers came when they were and her teammates motivate her to be

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 27 one tank

TShortraveler trips you can take on one tank of gas. Story and photos by Jessica A. Rudy

Lake Tobias celebrates half-century of wildlife and human interaction

Set in the rolling green hills north of up close and personal with the various park safari tours to come along. This is where the real Harrisburg, Lake Tobias Wildlife Park is a inhabitants via what basically amounts to a feast begins for the cattle. surprising hidden gem in the heart of central modified school bus. At the snack bar located at the safari tour bus Pennsylvania. The camouflaged buses make their first stop stop, a variety of crackers and popcorn are for Celebrating its 50th year of operation this year, just inside the preserve where a group of alpacas sale. All of the animals on the safari tour are able Lake Tobias is home to a variety of interesting waits to visit with riders. to eat these treats and have no fear about asking animals, who for the most part get along better Very near the alpacas are the rheas and folks on the bus to share. than they would in the wild. ostriches. During a recent safari tour at Lake As the tour continues, the safari bus continues Located about an hour and a half from Adams Tobias, the rheas had just gone through their to a scene that seems almost from a storybook. County, Lake Tobias is best viewed as a day trip. mating season, and many male rheas were For a split-second, it’s easy to forget the park The variety of creatures and activities, as well as preparing to sit on clutches of eggs throughout is so close to the state capital as the European the chance to get hands on with the animals also the preserve grounds. Both males and females Fallow Deer emerge from the trees to look mean that Lake Tobias is a fun trip for family gain a bit of weight before the mating season, curiously at the safari tour bus. members of all ages. which comes in handy for the males once nests These are the deer that evoke scenes from tales When first arriving at the property, visitors are built. The birds will decline to eat or drink like “Snow White” or “Little Red Riding Hood.” have the chance to visit the birds, or wander during the lengthy incubation process. Though they’re a bit different from the white tail down to the main park area to see the big cats, Next the safari tour moves on to visit with a deer more familiar to Pennsylvanians, the deer the bears, a variety of slithery reptiles, or species variety of four-legged mammals including North residing at Lake Tobias have the same grace and from other continents. American Bison, Asian Water Buffalo, Watusi (a curious countenance so well-known in these Other visitors choose to start their visit with a sort of cattle found in Africa), and antelope. creatures. ride on the safari tour. Each of these animals can be seen lazing about The mothers and fawns are generally found Lake Tobias offers visitors the chance to get and munching on grass while waiting for the on the hill along the safari tour path, while the

How To Get There From Adams County, take Route 15 north to Route 581/83. Follow Route 83 to the Route 81, and merge towards Route 81 south. Take the exit for Route 322/Route 22 West. Follow to the Dauphin Boro/Water Gap exit to Route 225. Follow Route 225 to Halifax, then turn left onto Tobias Drive.

28 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 males are found in a nearby pasture - of course distinguishable by their antlers. The sight of If You Go dozens of these small animals are an awesome experience with which to end the safari tour. Lake Tobias However, the tour is by no means the only Wildlife Park experience Lake Tobias has to offer. 760 Tobias Road After disembarking near the zoo’s snack bar Halifax, PA 17032 and gift shop, visitors can either choose to climb www.laketobias.com up to the reptiles, monkeys and petting zoo, or (717) 362-9126 take a more leisurely route to the top of the park Hours: August • Monday-Friday by visiting the big cats. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Lake Tobias has many of the residents found Saturday-Sunday at much larger zoos: African lions, Bengal tigers, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. zebras, and a variety of simian friends. September It’s rare to see American black bears in a Saturday-Sunday controlled environment (unless you count the 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. living room window looking into your backyard, October as some in Adams County regularly experience Saturday-Sunday the bears), but there are three in residence at 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Last Safari Tour departs one hour before closing Lake Tobias. Admission Throughout the park, visitors will be amazed $6 park admission, ages 3 and older to see a variety of birds wandering free-range $6 Safari Tour admission, ages 3 and older throughout the grounds. Most significant of Military discount available these are the peacocks, which boast colorful plumes of resplendent feathers. The reptile building is home to a variety them. Tiny goats roam alongside alpacas and of snakes of all sizes, including pythons and some birds. Various sheltered enclosures house constrictors. Reptile shows, which allow visitors different, smaller animals. One stall was literally to encounter snakes, alligators, turtles, and sloths, crawling with dozens of baby guinea pigs. are held several times per day at the building. A notable feature of Lake Tobias is the baby Just outside the reptile building are a variety of animals residing on the property. In fact a special swan, more monkeys, and prairie dogs. crew of employees is solely responsible for taking The prairie dogs have their own sand pit, the baby animals out and about into the park to allowing visitors to stand mesmerized as the interact with visitors. little furry creatures pop in and out of a complex At the end of a visit to Lake Tobias, visitors network of holes and tunnels they have built in are able to shop in a small gift shop, or eat at the the ground. concession stand before heading back home - or And don’t miss the petting zoo, which is great to their next adventure! fun even if children haven’t accompanied adults Lake Tobias is a great value for the entire to the park. family offering exciting experiences to aspiring This is an open petting zoo, which means once zoologists of all ages. And, it’s an easy trip to visitors step inside the petting zoo enclosures, make from Adams County on just one tank of the animals are able to interact directly with gas.

Things To Consider Lake Tobias is located in the rural area north of Harrisburg, and as a result, not many dining options are available surrounding the park. However, picnic pavilions are available on site by chance or by reservation for larger groups. Additionally, the on-site concession stand offers a variety of meals and snacks at affordable prices. The park is largely handicap accessible, though some steep inclines may make using wheelchairs or scooters difficult. Additionally, walking is involved to visit many of the animals on the property. Visitors planning to ride on the safari tour should allow an hour for that aspect of their visit.

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 29 DiningDelectable

story BY HOLLY FLETCHER PHOTOS BY DARRYL WHEELER Wells Family Bakery 100 Chambersburg St., Gettysburg, PA 717-337-2900

Wells Family Bakery turns food into art

Wells Family Baking Company can be found just off the square in Gettysburg, at the corner of Chambersburg and Washington streets. Tucked inside a striking old building within walking distance of Gettysburg College, it’s a sweet stop for busy locals and curious tourists. Owners DeLisa Wells and husband Orrin have been part of the downtown community for the last three years. She is originally from Lancaster and he is from Chambersburg. They fell in love while studying at culinary school and opened their specialty bakery in June 2011. Creating beautiful pieces of custom- made edible art is what they do. Delicious cakes range from Limoncello (Italian liqueur-soaked cake with lemon cream and meringue), to the all-time popular Chocolate “En”dulgence “I can’t keep it on the shelf,” Delisa said of the flourless chocolate cake that is both decadent and gluten-free. There are also coconut macaroons, several cookie choices and flavored biscotti - perfect for dunking into one of their

30 / Gettysburg Companion / August/September 2014 “He calls them Thanksgiving on a sandwich” Owner/DeLisa Wells

specialty coffees. different compounds, she can whip up any eggplant, red onion, piquillo peppers, fresh Bread comes warm from the oven every flavor under the sun – from peanut butter basil aioli, and rustic olive ciabatta bread. day, featuring everything from baguettes, to to hazelnut to raspberry. DeLisa said her husband likes to think sourdough, rye, multi-grain, pumpernickel Most of her creative flair came by up simple sandwiches with a twist. and ciabatta. There is no frozen dough “doing” but she also learned a lot from her “He calls them Thanksgiving on a found here and no preservatives in the years as pastry chef at Dingeldein Bakery sandwich,” she smiled. baked goods. in Cumberland. One example is the Drueben. It’s similar One of the main attractions of the store Last year, the bakery added a lunch to a Reuben but contains homemade duck is the cakes, especially those made for menu. With inside seating for 20, plus breast, pastrami, apple fennel kraut, house weddings and birthdays. But if you want some outside tables, they are kept busy Russian dressing, and melted Swiss cheese something extra special, call early. when college is in session. on buttered seeded rye. “Someone will call and say they need a In fact, the lunches were so successful Jon Moody, who assists Delisa in the cake tomorrow and sometimes I have to they started offering a picnic basket service shop and serves as sandwich artist, said the tell them I need more time,” said Delisa, this past spring. ingredients and the thought behind the who puts much care into each creation - Orrin’s chef-inspired menu choices are food is what makes them stand out. including fresh, local fruit, in season. unique and delicious. “We use local goat cheese in our Her cakes are frosted with an Italian The Local Goat sandwich uses goat sandwiches; we make our own dressings; meringue buttercream icing. And with cheese, slow roasted tomato, zucchini, we use local eggs to make the cakes; the

August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 31 vegetables are fresh and local; and we local fresh fruit. Also included is a map, offer a dinner menu. But first, Delisa wants marinate and slow-roast our meats for the highlighting picnic locations. The bakery another oven so she can do more baking. sandwiches and soups,” he said. also partnered with Hauser Estate Winery Hours are Tuesday through Thursday Jon has worked in differentfor complimentary wine tasting and a from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday and establishments over the years and said the select wine to compliment the meal, if one Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and recipes here are more thoughtful. chooses. Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. They offer “Orrin puts a lot of thought into “Since we can’t sell the wine here, the a Sunday morning breakfast from 9 to 11 each menu item and cares about the gift certificate is a nice way for locals and a.m. and Delisa recommends their Brioche ingredients,” he said. “You can taste the tourists to visit the winery and eat on their French toast. difference. There is love in this food.” beautiful grounds, or pick up a bottle The store is located at 100 Chambersburg The menu changes seasonally and most here at their town store and head to the St., Gettysburg. For more information, call everything is handmade, using Adams battlefield for a picnic,” said Delisa. 337-2900. County ingredients. Working together with local businesses This “taste of Adams County” was the is important to the Wellses. They supply idea behind the picnic baskets. local restaurants with bread and in turn, “People want to eat healthier and support utilize the goods and ingredients from local growers, but sometimes they do not local producers. have the time. So, we make the meal for “It’s a big cycle and it works out better them and they can pick it up and go,” said for everybody,” she said. Delisa. The bakery has won several awards, The complete picnic service offers including the 2014 People’s Choice Award the best of Adams County foods. Each during Gettysburg’s Taste of the Town basket features handmade sandwiches, culinary event. freshly prepared salads, baked goods and Future plans are to expand and maybe

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August/September 2014 / Gettysburg Companion / 33 Beyond the microphone

Music of Skyla Burrell Band soaked in authenticity

By Ashley Andyshak Hayes

kyla Burrell remembers the take the plunge,” she said. on drums and Chris Sellman on night she fell in love with Burrell, who now lives in bass. Audiences can feel Burrell’s the blues. Chambersburg, and guitarist Mike and the band’s emotions at every SOn a road trip to Arizona, she Tomlinson co-founded the Skyla performance, with Burrell’s voice discovered a blues show on the Burrell Band in 2004, and released filling any space, indoors or out. radio, and she was hooked. their first album, “Working Girl Adams Countians can catch Burrell “I sat out there all night in the Blues,” that same year. Since and and her band playing at venues car. I was just fascinated by it,” said including that first album, the all over the county, including Burrell, who’s been the frontwoman band’s records have included only outdoor venues like the Adams of the Skyla Burrell Band for 10 original songs written by Burrell County Winery and the Hauser years. and Tomlinson. Writing about Estate Winery, as well as indoors “At the heart of it it’s the intent and what they know keeps the band’s at the Garryowen Irish Pub, among emotion,” she said.“I love it when music real and relevant in the blues others. The band will be on tour this you can be emotional and a little world, Burrell said in an interview fall to promote their new album, rough around the edges. The blues just after a mixing session for the which contains 15 new songs, so are all about honesty, and when you band’s forthcoming fifth album. they’ll be playing several shows a connect with people on that level, “In the blues, you really have to week, Burrell said. it’s just a different understanding.” come from a place of authenticity, When it comes down to it, the Born in Los Angeles and raised in and for us, that is personal blues is all about opening up to the Southern California, Burrell moved experiences,” she said. “Sometimes audience, Burrell said. to the East Coast after an audition we write about things that happen “It’s about a conversation being in Nashville. Her mother had just to other people, but most of the had,” she said. “People feel like they moved to Virginia, and she felt the time, it’s our life.” can understand you.” time was right. Burrell’s and Tomlinson’s For more about the band and a “I was at a place in my life where songwriting is complemented by full list of upcoming performances, I needed a change, and I decided to the musical talents of Ezell Jones visit skylaburrell.com.

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