Major General (ret) Joe Franklin was born and raised in Cumberland and graduated from the McDonogh School in Owings Mills in 1951. He went on to the the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, from which he graduated in 1955. He played football at the academy, and once wrestled with Norman Schwarzkopf - and won.
His latest achievement is being named a Distinguished Graduate of the U.S. Military Academy; he was nominated for the honor by retired Army Major General Carl McNair Jr., the president of Joe's class. "Throughout his military and civilian business careers, Joe Franklin has shown the qualities of selfless service and dedication to his country and to West Point," McNair wrote.
Franklin's nomination recognized him for his academic skills, including master's degrees he earned in both civil and nuclear enginering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
After graduation from MIT, Joe reported for duty with the Army's Nuclear Power Program, then completed the Engineer Officers' Advanced Course and was selected to be an instructor in the department of military art and engineering at West Point. He also completed a year at the School of Naval Command and was assigned as commander of the 299th Combat Engineer Battalion in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal and two Air Medals.
His next assignment was to the Office of plans and Policy, the J-5 of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He was selected for the Army War College and reassigned to the JCS as the Army staff group executive to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, where he was recognized with a second Legion of Merit award and the Joint Service Commendation Medal.
In 1976, he was selected to command the 4th Basic Combat Training Brigade at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and was recalled to the JCS to be the first Army officer to serve as the special assistant to the director of the Joint Staff. He was one of the first members of his graduating class to be promoted to Brigadier General, in 1979.
Soon afterward, Joe Franklin was appointed to be the commander of cadets. He and his wife, Constance - a Cumberland native as well - formed a team that provided an inspiring climate for the first young women to enter and graduate from the Academy. Cumberland's Mike Lewis was present at West Point during the Franklins' tenure there, and gratefully recalls being taken under the couples' wings; he even went on skiing trips with them, and their nurturing made a tough time much smoother for the future doctor.
When Joe left West Point, he became the assistant division commander of the 25th Infantry Division in Hawaii during 1982-83, then was assgned as chief of the Joint Military Assistance and Advisory Group in Madrid, Spain. When his tour of duty ended, he was awarded Spain's highest decoration for military service and the Army's Distinguished Service Medal.
After his military retirement in 1987, he remained in Spain and began his service in the corporate world, forming FSA - Franklin Sociedad Anonima, and consulted for U.S. corporations involved with the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona and the World's Fair in SeVille.
Joe was recruited in 1992 to lead Frequency Electronics Inc., a contributor to the U.S. defense, space and telecommunications industries. He stepped down as CEO in 1999 but remains chairman of the board.
In his nomination, General McNair credited General Franklin as the author of a recently published book, "Building Leaders the West Point Way." All royalties from the book are being donated to the Military Academy.
Franklin drew on personal anectdotes from his career; the principles are designed to unlock the reader's full leadership potential.
Joe and Connie (Smith) are the proud parents of four sons and eight grandchildren. Many Cumberland residents will recall the couple; Ada Lu (Snyder) McCord remembers Joe (Sonny) and his sister (Sissy) being baptized in church the same day as she and her twin brother, John.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Monday, June 30, 2008
William H. Macy, Jr.
William H. Macy Jr. entered the world on March 13, 1950, in Miami, Florida. He was born to Lois, a war widow whose first husband died in 1943, and he has a half-brother, Fred.
Macy's father was a Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal winner for piloting a B-17 FLying Fortress bomber during World War II.
He lived in Georgia for a while, then moved with the family to Cumberland, at the age of nine, when his father took over the reins of a local insurance agency.
A shy young boy until Fred taught him to play the guitar, W.H. sang a song onstage for a school assembly, and the crowd went wild. He served as president of his class in his 11th and 12th grades, although, in his words, he was a terrible student.
He began his veterinarian studies at Bethany College in West Virginia, then transferred to Goddard and became involved in the theatre, graduating in 1971.
His entry into the "real world" came with a move to Chicago, where he toiled as a bartender and, with good friend David Mamet and others, formed the St. Nicholas Theatre Company.
He spent some time in Los Angeles, then moved - in 1980 - to New York City where he appeared in more than 50 Off-Broadway and Broadway plays.
At last count his face, or his voice, has appeared in at least 63 films - some on the big screen and others on television. He's been nominated for an Oscar, and he's won two Emmy Awards for both acting and directing "Door to Door", the story of a handicapped salesman intent on making his living in the real world.
Since 1997 he's been married to Felicity Huffman, a successful actress herself who currently stars in the very popular "Desperate Housewives" tv series.
Macy's father was a Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal winner for piloting a B-17 FLying Fortress bomber during World War II.
He lived in Georgia for a while, then moved with the family to Cumberland, at the age of nine, when his father took over the reins of a local insurance agency.
A shy young boy until Fred taught him to play the guitar, W.H. sang a song onstage for a school assembly, and the crowd went wild. He served as president of his class in his 11th and 12th grades, although, in his words, he was a terrible student.
He began his veterinarian studies at Bethany College in West Virginia, then transferred to Goddard and became involved in the theatre, graduating in 1971.
His entry into the "real world" came with a move to Chicago, where he toiled as a bartender and, with good friend David Mamet and others, formed the St. Nicholas Theatre Company.
He spent some time in Los Angeles, then moved - in 1980 - to New York City where he appeared in more than 50 Off-Broadway and Broadway plays.
At last count his face, or his voice, has appeared in at least 63 films - some on the big screen and others on television. He's been nominated for an Oscar, and he's won two Emmy Awards for both acting and directing "Door to Door", the story of a handicapped salesman intent on making his living in the real world.
Since 1997 he's been married to Felicity Huffman, a successful actress herself who currently stars in the very popular "Desperate Housewives" tv series.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Lee Teter
Lee Teter is a convoluted person; his talent and ability are well-known, but the man behind the brush chooses to stay in the shadows. Naturally withdrawn, he prefers to let his brush speak for himself, with his "Reflections" painting perhaps the most vivid description of the Viet Nam era's controversial aftermath.
Raised in Flintstone, his early life was one of poverty, but still he was able to draw - and draw well. Most of his early works were given to those whose influence dictated their creation. He painted portraits, t-shirts, cars, signs and billboards, and he drew pictures. He had to take a menial job to support himself and his new wife, eventually moving to Cumberland to do so.
His Cumberland house was run-down on the outside, but Teter stripped the interior, converting it into his studio. He ignored the exterior, claiming it didn't matter in the long run. "We live on the inside" he said. It was here where "Reflections" would be painted.
His "paying" job lasted all of three months; Lee quit because it interfered with his painting interests. He felt that he was drying up, having little time to create. By this time he was working completely in oils - teaching himself the intricacies and concentrating on Native American and frontier culture. The paintings sold and his future began to take shape.
Raised in Flintstone, his early life was one of poverty, but still he was able to draw - and draw well. Most of his early works were given to those whose influence dictated their creation. He painted portraits, t-shirts, cars, signs and billboards, and he drew pictures. He had to take a menial job to support himself and his new wife, eventually moving to Cumberland to do so.
His Cumberland house was run-down on the outside, but Teter stripped the interior, converting it into his studio. He ignored the exterior, claiming it didn't matter in the long run. "We live on the inside" he said. It was here where "Reflections" would be painted.
His "paying" job lasted all of three months; Lee quit because it interfered with his painting interests. He felt that he was drying up, having little time to create. By this time he was working completely in oils - teaching himself the intricacies and concentrating on Native American and frontier culture. The paintings sold and his future began to take shape.
Deaths of prominent people in Lee's life helped shape his "Reflections" effort. His cousin, Rick, was killed heading home from work, at age 28. His mother-in-law, then his grandfather, Jacob, passed away; they both played influential roles, but Lee's life was shrinking.
Visiting a cemetery, he realized he wasn't seeing stones and inscriptions, but names and events. Slowly the idea for the painting took shape and, over a few campfires, he decided to proceed. Local people would be featured in the work, including Mickey Bands, who was killed in Viet Nam. A family friend, Bill Custer, was another, as was Jim Williams, a veteran and a member of the local Viet Nam Veterans Association.
Lee had previously painted a portrait of a soldier in Viet Nam, and, at a mall art show, it drew little attention at a time when few cared to discuss the war; he gave it to a veteran who showed interest in it, Bill Farrell, a member of the small veterans group. He decided to give "Reflections" to the chapter for their own use - and the rest, as they say, is history.
Lee had a lot of respect for Viet Nam veterans, but the final design was understandably difficult to put together. It took months to finish - more months to introduce and promote - and his financial problems mounted. In his mind the most important priority was the work he was producing. Finally he wrote a license to reproduce and distribute the prints to the "Reflections" committee of VVA Chapter 172; he was pleased to be a part of the effort to do a good thing. He signed over 23,000 prints, and the veterans used the proceeds to enable many other chapters throughout the United States to get started. Lee received enough money to pay most of his debts, bought a used car and moved back into the hills, essentially ending his painting career, except for a few, occasional efforts, for the next 10 years.
He restricted himself to drawing while continuing his intense study of America's frontier years. Eventually that genre began a slow climb to popularity, and he was contracted to work with Michael Mann's 1991 version of the film "Last of the Mohicans." He designed major portions of the film and had a hand in every visual aspect as historical and frontier culture advisor and visual arts consultant.
After the film was introduced his print sales climbed, to the point he was able to move his family to Wyoming, one of the nation's least populous states, where he lived simply and quietly.
His daughter, Shawnee Rachael, has begun her journey into the world of art; she operates a small gallery named "The Little Art Gallery On The Prairie" and it contains primarily original paintings and drawings made by her father, as well as some bronze work by a neighbor. Lee contents himself with watering the flowers and helping out, and neighbors don't hesitate to call on him when some cowboy work is needed, but he avoids the public as much as possible.
Recently he made the move to Missouri.
In Lee's words: "There are two worlds; a real one made by God as a gift to those He loves, and a world of lies and deception made by men. I find wonder in the one and I hide from the other. I don't know any other way to keep my heart intact."
This explains why a painting can be so famous while its author remains so obscure.
Pictured, above left, is Lee with his horse, Ashley, on their homestead in Wyoming, where Lee and his family retreated - in part due to its dearth of people; it's one of our least populated states. To the right is one of his paintings, "A Perfect Day."
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Tiffany Claus
Tiffany Claus is making a name for herself in the entertainment world by imitating one of the world's most popular actresses, Angelina Jolie. The Allegany County resident has capitalized on her striking resemblance to Angelina, and her place in the entertainment business is flourishing.
She's made appearances on the Chelsea Handler and Tyra Banks television shows, as well as Access Hollywood and News Clones Documentary on the Current TV network. She guest-starred on the Maury Povich show.
Tiffany made her film debut in the "Hunting and Fishing" parody, by the writers and directors of the "Scary Movie" sequels. She was featured as well in "300" and has a couple of others awaiting release. She played Jolie's Laura Craft role from "Tomb Raiders" in a Geico Insurance television commercial and has been seen in several magazines: Stuff, Maxim, Marie Claire, Globe Weekly, the New York Times, New York Post "IN" magazine, (Germany) Hot Star - People, and the Las Vegas Palms News.
Other projects to date include the Best Buy - Trade Show Convention, the San Patricias Cinemas - Puerto Rico, and a themed banquet event at the 2006 Oscar ceremonies. She was a special invited guest at the New York City premiere opening of Madame Tussaud's wax museum, posing alongside waxen Jolie - Pitt figures. Several journeys to Las Vegas and Hollywood are among her itinerary; she's been to Europe and South Korea as well.
She's made appearances on the Chelsea Handler and Tyra Banks television shows, as well as Access Hollywood and News Clones Documentary on the Current TV network. She guest-starred on the Maury Povich show.
Tiffany made her film debut in the "Hunting and Fishing" parody, by the writers and directors of the "Scary Movie" sequels. She was featured as well in "300" and has a couple of others awaiting release. She played Jolie's Laura Craft role from "Tomb Raiders" in a Geico Insurance television commercial and has been seen in several magazines: Stuff, Maxim, Marie Claire, Globe Weekly, the New York Times, New York Post "IN" magazine, (Germany) Hot Star - People, and the Las Vegas Palms News.
Other projects to date include the Best Buy - Trade Show Convention, the San Patricias Cinemas - Puerto Rico, and a themed banquet event at the 2006 Oscar ceremonies. She was a special invited guest at the New York City premiere opening of Madame Tussaud's wax museum, posing alongside waxen Jolie - Pitt figures. Several journeys to Las Vegas and Hollywood are among her itinerary; she's been to Europe and South Korea as well.
Tiffany was recognized on Friday, June 20, 2008, as the first Cumberland Friday after Five Celebrity of the Month for her success in her field, and for representing the area in a positive manner as she travels around the world. She spent the evening greeting her many local fans, posing for photos amid a gathering of Corvettes assembled on Town Centre as well as over 200 pictures taken with event attendees, even as she was scheduled to leave early next morning to film an appearance in another movie, this one being shot in nearby Harrisburg, PA, and featuring Mickey Rooney.
A photo above is of Tiffany posing with my brother, Ted Haines, alongside his white 1992 Corvette.
Not yet thirty, Tiffany and her two children enjoy the relaxed setting our area provides; she paints in her spare time.
Not yet thirty, Tiffany and her two children enjoy the relaxed setting our area provides; she paints in her spare time.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Senator Robert C.Byrd
The long-time senator from West Virginia has brought much to our region, including to the ATK (formerly ABL) facility at Rocket Center. Military contracts assure employment for area workers; a building on the premises has been named in honor of his wife, Ora, and two more for himself. Throughout the state, much bears his name: a high school in Clarksburg, where Senator Byrd was instrumental in transferring FBI departments, and many of the highways winding through the Mountain State are now referred to as the Robert C. Byrd Appalachian Highway System.
Born on November 20, 1917, in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, to Titus and Vlurma Byrd, he married his high school sweetheart Erma Ora (James) Byrd on May 29, 1937.
It's been said by fellow Congressmen that Senator Byrd exemplifies the type of person the founding fathers had in mind when they drew the Constitution. He has cast 17,800 roll call votes - an amazing 98.7% attendance record - in his nearly 5 decades of service in the Senate and has been elected to more leadership positions than any other senator in history.
After taking 10 years of classes while serving as a member of Congress, he earned a law degree from American University in 1963, and earned another diploma from Marshall University at the age of 77. Acknowledging the value of an education, Senator Byrd introduced a program in West Virginia in 1969 whereby valedictorians at each public and private high school receive savings bonds and a congratulatory letter from him. Then, in 1985, he launched the first and only federal merit-based scholarship program. Since then tens of thousands of U.S. students have received help in paying their tuition bills through its unique incentive.
Showing his down-to-earth side, he learned to play the fiddle, and has played it in churches, homes and hamlets across the state. His skill led to performances at the Kennedy Center and on television, and he has even recorded an album, "Mountain Fiddler."
"Each day in the Senate, Robert Carlisle Byrd is focused on building a better future for the Mountain State" comes from his biography posted on the internet.
Born on November 20, 1917, in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, to Titus and Vlurma Byrd, he married his high school sweetheart Erma Ora (James) Byrd on May 29, 1937.
It's been said by fellow Congressmen that Senator Byrd exemplifies the type of person the founding fathers had in mind when they drew the Constitution. He has cast 17,800 roll call votes - an amazing 98.7% attendance record - in his nearly 5 decades of service in the Senate and has been elected to more leadership positions than any other senator in history.
After taking 10 years of classes while serving as a member of Congress, he earned a law degree from American University in 1963, and earned another diploma from Marshall University at the age of 77. Acknowledging the value of an education, Senator Byrd introduced a program in West Virginia in 1969 whereby valedictorians at each public and private high school receive savings bonds and a congratulatory letter from him. Then, in 1985, he launched the first and only federal merit-based scholarship program. Since then tens of thousands of U.S. students have received help in paying their tuition bills through its unique incentive.
Showing his down-to-earth side, he learned to play the fiddle, and has played it in churches, homes and hamlets across the state. His skill led to performances at the Kennedy Center and on television, and he has even recorded an album, "Mountain Fiddler."
"Each day in the Senate, Robert Carlisle Byrd is focused on building a better future for the Mountain State" comes from his biography posted on the internet.
Dr. Mervin Lee Trail
Cumberland native Dr. Trail was respected and cherished by most all of the populace of Louisiana. He was very well known for his contributions to the New Orleans tourism industry: "Among his many accomplishments Merv Trail helped establish New Orleans as a sports and "Big Event" mecca - from Clancy DuBos. An ear, nose and throat specialist, he was associate editor of "Archive of Otolaryngology" and on the board of "Journal of Heart and Neck Surgery." Along with Patricia Denechaund, he founded the New Orleans affiliate of the Susan G. Konen Foundation in 1992 to fight breast cancer.
He passed away from a stroke suffered on New Year's Day, 2001; at the time he was chairman of the task forces planning the 2002 Super Bowl in New Orleans and the 2003 Final Four NCAA college basketball championship. He had already spearheaded the effort to bring that tournament to the Big Easy twice before - the latest in 1993. He also led the drive to bring the Women's Final Four to the city in 1991.
Additionally, as Founding Chair of the New Orleans Sports Foundation he was responsible for the renovation of Tad Gormley Stadium, which culminated in the city hosting the U.S. Olympic Trials in 1992.
In the tourism arena, Trail was a founding member of the New Orleans Convention Center Board of Directors and a key figure in securing funds to build and expand the facility. He got his first taste of tourism development in 1973 when he was asked to help the group lure medical conventions. Two years later he became a member of the commission's executive committee and went on to serve as president several times.
When New Oleans' efforts to host the 1988 Republican National Convention appeared to be floundering financially and otherwise, the community turned to Trail, who was then in his third term as president of the Tourist and Convention Commission. He responded with his usual combination of enthusiasm, selflessness and focus. The result: A bipartisan acomplishment to host the most successful political convention ever. And he did it quietly, behind the scenes, without stepping on toes and without looking for credit.
A friend described Mevin Trail as "one of those people who could compromise without losing sight of his goal. And he could keep everybody happy in the process." Rare traits, indeed.
Somehow, between all that, he continued teaching and maintaining an active medical practice, including work as a head and neck surgeon. Since 1994 he served as Chancellor of Health Sciences Center, the University's medical school. Under his leadership the LSU center took over management of the Louisiana Charity Hospital system, including its 15,000 employees and a $1.5 billion budget.
In January 1989, Gambit Weekly named him "New Orleanian of the Year for 1988." The descriptive column described his efforts as a "House Call for the Economy."
A resolution was produced on January 4, 2001 at the Louisiana Board of Regents honoring Dr. Trail for his leadership and dedicated service to mental education, health care, the Louisiana State University system and the people of Louisiana. Homage was paid: "Dr. Merv Trail was a healer in many, many ways. New Orleans was lucky to have been his favorite patient."
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, scientists are once again conducting research in the Mervin L. Trail Clinical Sciences Research Building as of February, 2006.
While still in high school he was sports editor of the school's newspaper, and he provided sports information to the Cumberland newspapers as well. He enjoyed athletics and participated, successfully, in tennis tournaments, and he was an avid outdoorsman in later life.
After his high school graduation he attended Bridgewater College in Virginia, preparatory to his advanced degrees. He received a Doctorate from the University of Maryland - Baltimore - before moving on to New Orleans.
He is survived by his wife, Edith, four daughters and several cousins in this area.
He passed away from a stroke suffered on New Year's Day, 2001; at the time he was chairman of the task forces planning the 2002 Super Bowl in New Orleans and the 2003 Final Four NCAA college basketball championship. He had already spearheaded the effort to bring that tournament to the Big Easy twice before - the latest in 1993. He also led the drive to bring the Women's Final Four to the city in 1991.
Additionally, as Founding Chair of the New Orleans Sports Foundation he was responsible for the renovation of Tad Gormley Stadium, which culminated in the city hosting the U.S. Olympic Trials in 1992.
In the tourism arena, Trail was a founding member of the New Orleans Convention Center Board of Directors and a key figure in securing funds to build and expand the facility. He got his first taste of tourism development in 1973 when he was asked to help the group lure medical conventions. Two years later he became a member of the commission's executive committee and went on to serve as president several times.
When New Oleans' efforts to host the 1988 Republican National Convention appeared to be floundering financially and otherwise, the community turned to Trail, who was then in his third term as president of the Tourist and Convention Commission. He responded with his usual combination of enthusiasm, selflessness and focus. The result: A bipartisan acomplishment to host the most successful political convention ever. And he did it quietly, behind the scenes, without stepping on toes and without looking for credit.
A friend described Mevin Trail as "one of those people who could compromise without losing sight of his goal. And he could keep everybody happy in the process." Rare traits, indeed.
Somehow, between all that, he continued teaching and maintaining an active medical practice, including work as a head and neck surgeon. Since 1994 he served as Chancellor of Health Sciences Center, the University's medical school. Under his leadership the LSU center took over management of the Louisiana Charity Hospital system, including its 15,000 employees and a $1.5 billion budget.
In January 1989, Gambit Weekly named him "New Orleanian of the Year for 1988." The descriptive column described his efforts as a "House Call for the Economy."
A resolution was produced on January 4, 2001 at the Louisiana Board of Regents honoring Dr. Trail for his leadership and dedicated service to mental education, health care, the Louisiana State University system and the people of Louisiana. Homage was paid: "Dr. Merv Trail was a healer in many, many ways. New Orleans was lucky to have been his favorite patient."
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, scientists are once again conducting research in the Mervin L. Trail Clinical Sciences Research Building as of February, 2006.
While still in high school he was sports editor of the school's newspaper, and he provided sports information to the Cumberland newspapers as well. He enjoyed athletics and participated, successfully, in tennis tournaments, and he was an avid outdoorsman in later life.
After his high school graduation he attended Bridgewater College in Virginia, preparatory to his advanced degrees. He received a Doctorate from the University of Maryland - Baltimore - before moving on to New Orleans.
He is survived by his wife, Edith, four daughters and several cousins in this area.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Bishop James E. Walsh
Born in 1891, James Edward Walsh worked as a timekeeper in a steel mill until his calling in 1915. Assigned to preach in China, he served there as a missionary from 1927 to 1936, and returned to the United States until the Vatican requested he return in 1948, one year before the Chinese Communist take-over.
He gained word-wide acclaim for his religious defiance in the face of the country's government, and was finally arrested in 1959. He spent 12 years in solitary confinement before being suddenly released by his captors; he walked over a bridge into Hong Kong and to freedom.
In 1973 Ridgeley native Patrick Fryer was ordained by Bishop Walsh at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. He then served as a Naval Chaplain for the next 28 years and is currently pastor of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Martinsburg.
A separate display area at St. Patrick's Church holds several mementos of Bishop Walsh's career, including letters mailed from China while he was held prisoner there.
He passed away in 1981; the parochial school on Haystack Mountain was named in his honor.
He gained word-wide acclaim for his religious defiance in the face of the country's government, and was finally arrested in 1959. He spent 12 years in solitary confinement before being suddenly released by his captors; he walked over a bridge into Hong Kong and to freedom.
In 1973 Ridgeley native Patrick Fryer was ordained by Bishop Walsh at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. He then served as a Naval Chaplain for the next 28 years and is currently pastor of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Martinsburg.
A separate display area at St. Patrick's Church holds several mementos of Bishop Walsh's career, including letters mailed from China while he was held prisoner there.
He passed away in 1981; the parochial school on Haystack Mountain was named in his honor.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Earl M. Nonnenmann
Earl's contributions to our community were many. When Little League baseball play began in 1949, it was learned that many potential players had no gloves with which to participate. Quietly and behind the scene he saw to it that every player was completely outfitted, and as a result some very good players were developed.
The physical fitness center at the Riverside YMCA bears his name because of his generosity, and the Earl M. Nonnenmann YMCA Sunday School Basketball League was re-named in his honor. A youth baseball field in South Cumberland is also named for "6 Ns." He and his wife Georgianna presented nursing scholarships to Allegany College. He was a life-time member of the YMCA and represented Cumberland at various National Council of YMCAs meetings as a National Board member.
He headed a committee to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Cumberland YMCA in 1974. In addition, he was an active member of the Allegany County League for Crippled Children, the American Red Cross, the Sacred Heart Hospital Foundation and many other civic organizations in the Cumberland area before relocating to Grand Rapids, Michigan with his second wife, Kay.
At the age of 92 Earl continued to show his love for Cumberland, driving from his home in Michigan to attend numerous Dapper Dan and basketball league dinners, often speaking to his many friends, in a strong voice over the microphone, during the ceremonies.
He passed away from injuries suffered in a fall at home at age 93, and is buried at the Rocky Gap Veterans Cemetery.
The physical fitness center at the Riverside YMCA bears his name because of his generosity, and the Earl M. Nonnenmann YMCA Sunday School Basketball League was re-named in his honor. A youth baseball field in South Cumberland is also named for "6 Ns." He and his wife Georgianna presented nursing scholarships to Allegany College. He was a life-time member of the YMCA and represented Cumberland at various National Council of YMCAs meetings as a National Board member.
He headed a committee to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Cumberland YMCA in 1974. In addition, he was an active member of the Allegany County League for Crippled Children, the American Red Cross, the Sacred Heart Hospital Foundation and many other civic organizations in the Cumberland area before relocating to Grand Rapids, Michigan with his second wife, Kay.
At the age of 92 Earl continued to show his love for Cumberland, driving from his home in Michigan to attend numerous Dapper Dan and basketball league dinners, often speaking to his many friends, in a strong voice over the microphone, during the ceremonies.
He passed away from injuries suffered in a fall at home at age 93, and is buried at the Rocky Gap Veterans Cemetery.
Casper Taylor
"Cas" served as a delegate to the Maryland House for many years, reaching the position of Speaker of the House of Delegates, and he presided there from 1994 to 2002. He served his constituents well, reflected in the Rocky Gap Lodge and Golf Resort, and the Music Festival held there for many years; it brought some of the biggest names in country music to our area during its run. He was known for keeping a keen eye on the health of the entire state, especially economically depressed areas such as Western Maryland, Baltimore City and the Eastern Shore. He was also instrumental in the construction of the new Riverside YMCA on property formerly owned by the Kelly-Springfield Tire Company.
"Cas" is a graduate of LaSalle Institute, and of Notre Dame University. Since his departure from the political scene, he has become a lobbyist, using his influence in representing companies and causes in Annapolis.
"Cas" is a graduate of LaSalle Institute, and of Notre Dame University. Since his departure from the political scene, he has become a lobbyist, using his influence in representing companies and causes in Annapolis.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Robert Moses "Lefty" Grove
Born in Lonaconing in 1900, "Lefty' went on to carve a baseball Hall Of Fame career with the Philadelphia Athletics and the Boston Red Sox. In seventeen seasons spent entirely in the American League, he won 300 games while losing but 144, and his success put him in that hallowed Hall in 1947, in his first year of eligibility.
He threw a lot of rocks as a youngster, building arm strength in the process. But he played no baseball at all until age 17, and when he did, it was as a first baseman for a semi-pro team in Midland, Maryland. He worked in the mines, the silk mill, a glass factory and the B & O Railroad while he perfected his craft, and began pitching soon after. Lean and lanky at six feet three and 170 pounds, he was known for his temper as much as for his skill.
Signed by Martinsburg of the Blue Ridge League in 1920, he rode his bicycle from 'Coney to report for his first professional job. Impressing scouts quickly, he was bought by the Baltimore Orioles of the International League for just over $3,000 - because Martinsburg needed the money to complete their ball field.
His Minor League stint was impressive as well; known as the "wild Oriole" because of the number of walks he issued in his first couple of seasons, he compiled a 111-39 record before being sold to the Philadelphia Athletics in October of 1924 for $100,600. It was the highest price ever paid, to that time, for a minor leaguer. He went 10-12 that first big-league season, and led the league in shutouts and walks. He hit the 20 win mark in 1927; it was the beginning of a seven year run with at least 20 wins, capped by a 31-4 record in 1931.
"Lefty" went to the Red Sox in 1933, part of a $125,000 multi-player deal. His last season with the Red Sox brought a 7-7 record, and he announced his retirement after the completion of the '41 campaign.
"Grove could throw a lamb chop past a wolf" was the tribute from sportswriter Westbrook Pegler. But his temperament was well known; opposing fans would flock to the ballparks to boo and curse him. Few historians of the time cared to tell about his great pitching efforts. According to the book "The Baseball Library", Grove led the American League in shredded uniforms, kicked buckets, ripped apart lockers and alienated teammates. The ravaged clubhouse in St. Louis lived after him; his quiet acts of goodness were interred with his moans.
He retired to Lonaconing and operated a bowling alley and pool hall there before moving to Norwalk, Ohio, and he passed away there on May 22, 1975. Rick Schramm remembers fishing with his uncle John and Lefty in the Georges Creek area; he's in ownership of many mementos handed him by Grove, but Rick remembers the legendary Hall of Famer as "just a friend."
Lea and Mike McCagh are in possession of a Brunswick pool table purchased at an auction in 1980 after Lefty's death; it's in normal use in their family room.
Ron Windle's aunt was a nurse who cared for Grove during a hospital stay, and she was rewarded for her tenderness with an autographed baseball. Having no children of her own, she gave it to a young Ronnie, who promptly gave it a good cleaning - until he saw the signature had been removed. He stopped, but it was too late.The ball still carries the statistics of the game: the date, the score, and the runs, hits and errors.
He threw a lot of rocks as a youngster, building arm strength in the process. But he played no baseball at all until age 17, and when he did, it was as a first baseman for a semi-pro team in Midland, Maryland. He worked in the mines, the silk mill, a glass factory and the B & O Railroad while he perfected his craft, and began pitching soon after. Lean and lanky at six feet three and 170 pounds, he was known for his temper as much as for his skill.
Signed by Martinsburg of the Blue Ridge League in 1920, he rode his bicycle from 'Coney to report for his first professional job. Impressing scouts quickly, he was bought by the Baltimore Orioles of the International League for just over $3,000 - because Martinsburg needed the money to complete their ball field.
His Minor League stint was impressive as well; known as the "wild Oriole" because of the number of walks he issued in his first couple of seasons, he compiled a 111-39 record before being sold to the Philadelphia Athletics in October of 1924 for $100,600. It was the highest price ever paid, to that time, for a minor leaguer. He went 10-12 that first big-league season, and led the league in shutouts and walks. He hit the 20 win mark in 1927; it was the beginning of a seven year run with at least 20 wins, capped by a 31-4 record in 1931.
"Lefty" went to the Red Sox in 1933, part of a $125,000 multi-player deal. His last season with the Red Sox brought a 7-7 record, and he announced his retirement after the completion of the '41 campaign.
"Grove could throw a lamb chop past a wolf" was the tribute from sportswriter Westbrook Pegler. But his temperament was well known; opposing fans would flock to the ballparks to boo and curse him. Few historians of the time cared to tell about his great pitching efforts. According to the book "The Baseball Library", Grove led the American League in shredded uniforms, kicked buckets, ripped apart lockers and alienated teammates. The ravaged clubhouse in St. Louis lived after him; his quiet acts of goodness were interred with his moans.
He retired to Lonaconing and operated a bowling alley and pool hall there before moving to Norwalk, Ohio, and he passed away there on May 22, 1975. Rick Schramm remembers fishing with his uncle John and Lefty in the Georges Creek area; he's in ownership of many mementos handed him by Grove, but Rick remembers the legendary Hall of Famer as "just a friend."
Lea and Mike McCagh are in possession of a Brunswick pool table purchased at an auction in 1980 after Lefty's death; it's in normal use in their family room.
Ron Windle's aunt was a nurse who cared for Grove during a hospital stay, and she was rewarded for her tenderness with an autographed baseball. Having no children of her own, she gave it to a young Ronnie, who promptly gave it a good cleaning - until he saw the signature had been removed. He stopped, but it was too late.The ball still carries the statistics of the game: the date, the score, and the runs, hits and errors.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Elwood "Woody" Norris
From a very austere birth in Barrellville, to a home at the northern edge of Valley Road in Cumberland, to a multi-million dollar house in Southern California tells, in a few words, the story of a journey from rags to riches. Growing up without indoor plumbing was tough, as were other aspects of his Mormon upbringing, but to say Woody survived is merely the tip of the iceberg: his frst major invention, which he refered to as "Transcutaneous Doppler" evolved into the sonogram. His innovation of the digital recorder in 1994 led to a Popular Science Magazine "Best Of" pick, and he's developed the world's tiniest radio - at less than a quarter-ounce. He's invented a tracking device for wayward toddlers, and his current project is an ultralight helicopter; it weighs just 254 pounds and doesn't require a pilot's license. When he mentioned his idea to Boeing enginers briefly, he had two million dollars in his hands in twenty minutes; friends wanted in.
The FBI and the United States government are very interested in his Hypersonic Sound System, which can convince a person he or she is stranded in the Brazilian rain forest, at the foot of a monstrous waterfall, surrounded by ice cubes clinking in a glass, or it can immobolize an entire fleet of enemy ships. It won the Popular Science grand prize in 2002 as the best new invention of the year, beating out the Segway scooter. On a commercial side, his invention allows companies to tout their products to passing shoppers: "Wouldn't a Coke taste great right now?" would be heard only by the person targeted by the unit; it puts the sound inside their head, instead of out in the open for all to receive.
As the Chairman of American Technology Corporation he holds 54 U.S. patents, and over 300 patents world-wide. One is for advanced penetrating microwave radar technology capable of seeing plastic mines and other non-metallic objects. Other awards include those from Popular Science in 1993, from Business Week in 1993, from MacUser magazine that same year, and from Discover Magazine in 1997.
A New York Times article about Norris begins with: "The sound of Things to Come. Woody Norris has reinvented accoustics. Big news for the world of music. Bigger news for advertising
The FBI and the United States government are very interested in his Hypersonic Sound System, which can convince a person he or she is stranded in the Brazilian rain forest, at the foot of a monstrous waterfall, surrounded by ice cubes clinking in a glass, or it can immobolize an entire fleet of enemy ships. It won the Popular Science grand prize in 2002 as the best new invention of the year, beating out the Segway scooter. On a commercial side, his invention allows companies to tout their products to passing shoppers: "Wouldn't a Coke taste great right now?" would be heard only by the person targeted by the unit; it puts the sound inside their head, instead of out in the open for all to receive.
As the Chairman of American Technology Corporation he holds 54 U.S. patents, and over 300 patents world-wide. One is for advanced penetrating microwave radar technology capable of seeing plastic mines and other non-metallic objects. Other awards include those from Popular Science in 1993, from Business Week in 1993, from MacUser magazine that same year, and from Discover Magazine in 1997.
A New York Times article about Norris begins with: "The sound of Things to Come. Woody Norris has reinvented accoustics. Big news for the world of music. Bigger news for advertising
and crime-fighting and combat."
He's become involved in a film company, and, remembering his early days, named it Mount Savage Productions - after the small town where his mother was born. He says he'd like to buy the town - and maybe he could.
Producer Simon Cowell, of American Idol fame, approached Woody with an invitation to serve as a judge for a new show, "American Inventor." He had to turn him down; he had too much going on to spare the time.
Despite his engineering accomplishments, Woody says his proudest achievements are his eleven children. He predicts the best inventions of humankind are yet to come: "I can smell the trend," he says.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Norman Scribner
Norman moved to Cumberland as an eighth grader in 1948 when his father became pastor at Centre Street United Methodist Church. An exceptional musician, he'd practice on the church organ, playing so loudly one night that the sisters at St. Patrick Catholic Church nunnery called the police about the noise going on; they couldn't sleep.
In 1965 he founded the Choral Arts Society of Washington, an ensemble of more than 190 singers who perform under his direction at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Since then, and as artistic director of one of the major symphonic choruses in the United States, he has led them during numerous performances with the world's leading conductors and orchestras, and on television appearances, recordings and tours.
At the request of Leonard Bernstein, Scribner assembled a professional choir to perform in the world premier of Mass for the opening of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in 1971. That group has returned to the site numerous times and has produced a Grammy-nominated recording of Haydn's Mass in Time of War in 1973 under the direction of Bernstein, recording on the Columbia label.
An accomplished pianist, he was the staff keyboard artist for the National Symphony Orchestra from 1963 to 1967, and he has also served as guest conductor of the symphony on several occasions. He has, as well, a well-known reputation as a composer.
After graduating with honors from Baltimore's Peabody Conservatory, his musical presence in Washington commenced when he became conductor of the American University Chorale, assistant organist of the Washington Cathedral, and organist-choirmaster of St. Alban's Episcopal Church.
He has taught at American University, George Washington University, and the College of Church Musicians of Washington National Cathedral.
His many outstanding achievements and contributons to the city of Washington haven't gone unnoticed; Scribner was named a 1984 Washintonian of the Year, received a Mayor's Arts Award in 1998, the Cultural Alliance Founder's Award in 2001, an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from the Virginia Theological Seminary in 2002, and the Peabody Distinguished Alumni Award in 2006.
He recently returned to Centre Street United Methodist Church as guest organist with the Sanctuary Choir as the church celebrated its 225th anniverasry.
In 1965 he founded the Choral Arts Society of Washington, an ensemble of more than 190 singers who perform under his direction at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Since then, and as artistic director of one of the major symphonic choruses in the United States, he has led them during numerous performances with the world's leading conductors and orchestras, and on television appearances, recordings and tours.
At the request of Leonard Bernstein, Scribner assembled a professional choir to perform in the world premier of Mass for the opening of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in 1971. That group has returned to the site numerous times and has produced a Grammy-nominated recording of Haydn's Mass in Time of War in 1973 under the direction of Bernstein, recording on the Columbia label.
An accomplished pianist, he was the staff keyboard artist for the National Symphony Orchestra from 1963 to 1967, and he has also served as guest conductor of the symphony on several occasions. He has, as well, a well-known reputation as a composer.
After graduating with honors from Baltimore's Peabody Conservatory, his musical presence in Washington commenced when he became conductor of the American University Chorale, assistant organist of the Washington Cathedral, and organist-choirmaster of St. Alban's Episcopal Church.
He has taught at American University, George Washington University, and the College of Church Musicians of Washington National Cathedral.
His many outstanding achievements and contributons to the city of Washington haven't gone unnoticed; Scribner was named a 1984 Washintonian of the Year, received a Mayor's Arts Award in 1998, the Cultural Alliance Founder's Award in 2001, an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from the Virginia Theological Seminary in 2002, and the Peabody Distinguished Alumni Award in 2006.
He recently returned to Centre Street United Methodist Church as guest organist with the Sanctuary Choir as the church celebrated its 225th anniverasry.
Olin Yoder
Olin's parents moved from Garrett County to Potomac Park when he was in the 5th grade; his early memories include the duties thrust upon him as a farm child. His father becoming employed by the Celanese Corporation changed his life.
The son of an Amish father-turned Mennonite, Olin learned to appreciate things we take for granted: electricity, cars and everyday dress among them. He became interested in the visual arts at an early age; he can recall sitting on his father's lap and watching him drawing on the back of an oil cloth on the kitchen table. Olin wanted to copy him, and that's how it all started. He realized his artistic talents were the keys to avoiding a daily routine behind a plow, and the self-deprecating Shepherd College graduate has remained farm-free to this day. Big for the time at six feet four and two hundred thirty pounds, he hitch-hiked from Cumberland to Shepherd to meet with the football coach, then astounded him with his intention to become an arts major. ("I think he thought I'd want to play in ballet slippers") As a freshman, an art professor took the class to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., and the trip became a turning point in his future.
Growing up with financial difficulty everywhere, as it was for many during and after World War II, he lived on five dollars every two weeks from home, with the threat of returning to that home and a job at the railroad if he got into any trouble at school - he didn't.
After college graduation in 1951 he began teaching in Garrett County, for a yearly salary of $2,400, and wondered if he could ever spend all of it. He then went east to Anne Arundel County where he spent most of his teaching career, though he also taught at City College High School in Baltimore - the third oldest high school in the country.
He received his Masters in Fine Arts from the Maryland Institute of Art in Baltimore in 1958, and taught in Maryland public high schools for over 40 years before spending another 15 at Catonsville Community College. In 1988 he was named Outstanding Secondary Art Teacher by the Maryland Art Education Association, and in 1990 he became the Anne Arundel County Teacher of the Year, and a state finalist. He was among the first six individuals awarded an "Annie" in Anne Arundel County; it's a yearly award of merit for residents who contribute to all the arts in the area, and he received an honor from Channel 11 for his teaching acomplishments.
While in Baltimore Olin served on the 1% Commission for the Arts. Every public building in Baltimore must put aside 1% of the cost of that building for art that would become a permanent part of the structure. Artists were selected from across the country to create these pieces of work. He also served four years on the Anne Arundel Commission for Culture and the Arts.
Much of his talent came from his father, Claude, whose woodcarvings brought a lot of favorable publicity. In 1972 Claude participated in the Smithsonian Institute Folk Festival of America on the Washington D.C. Mall. The Smithsonian requested, and was given, a dog he fashioned from a wooden plank from a C & O Canal barge.
In 1998, seven years after Claude's death, the Gallery of Catonsville Community College held an exhibit called "Amish Father/City Son" and displayed works from both Yoders.
Baltimore Sun columnist Don Rodricks wrote that Olin's work is diametrically opposed to that of his father; it's excellent - as sophisticated and technically sound as Claude's is folksy, crude and intentionally surreal.
After years of experimenting with a variety of mediums he now paints only in oils, and his quest for his passion has led him and his wife, Betty - also a Shepherd grad - to 45 countries. She'll quietly walk out of the display rooms and allow Olin to stare for hours on end.
Their oldest daughter, Cindy, follows her dad's path. Receiving her Shepherd diploma in 1982, she has her bachelor of arts degree.
Today, Olin remains busy. He works in his studio in Linthicum Heights near Baltimore, travels the world with Betty, or visits his alma mater. He served as president of the Emeritus Club in 2002, and has performed duties as master of ceremonies on numerous occasions. He's a gifted speaker as well, presenting his cartoons on an overhead projector when he speaks.
He makes no prints of his work; those who purchase a painting know they have the original. Samples of his talent may be found on the internet by clicking on to: http://www.oilsbyolin.com/; his internet site is: olin@aceweb.com. or they may be viewed, and bought, at Helen's Garden Restaurant near Baltimore. There are always 40 paintings on sale and display there, and he is placing paintings and prints in the new Kayak Sports Complex in Garrett County. Allegany Magazine features his cartoons under "Yoder's World."
His younger brother, Gary, is a noted woodcarver as was their father. He's been featured in numerous articles displaying his skill and accomplishments.
The son of an Amish father-turned Mennonite, Olin learned to appreciate things we take for granted: electricity, cars and everyday dress among them. He became interested in the visual arts at an early age; he can recall sitting on his father's lap and watching him drawing on the back of an oil cloth on the kitchen table. Olin wanted to copy him, and that's how it all started. He realized his artistic talents were the keys to avoiding a daily routine behind a plow, and the self-deprecating Shepherd College graduate has remained farm-free to this day. Big for the time at six feet four and two hundred thirty pounds, he hitch-hiked from Cumberland to Shepherd to meet with the football coach, then astounded him with his intention to become an arts major. ("I think he thought I'd want to play in ballet slippers") As a freshman, an art professor took the class to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., and the trip became a turning point in his future.
Growing up with financial difficulty everywhere, as it was for many during and after World War II, he lived on five dollars every two weeks from home, with the threat of returning to that home and a job at the railroad if he got into any trouble at school - he didn't.
After college graduation in 1951 he began teaching in Garrett County, for a yearly salary of $2,400, and wondered if he could ever spend all of it. He then went east to Anne Arundel County where he spent most of his teaching career, though he also taught at City College High School in Baltimore - the third oldest high school in the country.
He received his Masters in Fine Arts from the Maryland Institute of Art in Baltimore in 1958, and taught in Maryland public high schools for over 40 years before spending another 15 at Catonsville Community College. In 1988 he was named Outstanding Secondary Art Teacher by the Maryland Art Education Association, and in 1990 he became the Anne Arundel County Teacher of the Year, and a state finalist. He was among the first six individuals awarded an "Annie" in Anne Arundel County; it's a yearly award of merit for residents who contribute to all the arts in the area, and he received an honor from Channel 11 for his teaching acomplishments.
While in Baltimore Olin served on the 1% Commission for the Arts. Every public building in Baltimore must put aside 1% of the cost of that building for art that would become a permanent part of the structure. Artists were selected from across the country to create these pieces of work. He also served four years on the Anne Arundel Commission for Culture and the Arts.
Much of his talent came from his father, Claude, whose woodcarvings brought a lot of favorable publicity. In 1972 Claude participated in the Smithsonian Institute Folk Festival of America on the Washington D.C. Mall. The Smithsonian requested, and was given, a dog he fashioned from a wooden plank from a C & O Canal barge.
In 1998, seven years after Claude's death, the Gallery of Catonsville Community College held an exhibit called "Amish Father/City Son" and displayed works from both Yoders.
Baltimore Sun columnist Don Rodricks wrote that Olin's work is diametrically opposed to that of his father; it's excellent - as sophisticated and technically sound as Claude's is folksy, crude and intentionally surreal.
After years of experimenting with a variety of mediums he now paints only in oils, and his quest for his passion has led him and his wife, Betty - also a Shepherd grad - to 45 countries. She'll quietly walk out of the display rooms and allow Olin to stare for hours on end.
Their oldest daughter, Cindy, follows her dad's path. Receiving her Shepherd diploma in 1982, she has her bachelor of arts degree.
Today, Olin remains busy. He works in his studio in Linthicum Heights near Baltimore, travels the world with Betty, or visits his alma mater. He served as president of the Emeritus Club in 2002, and has performed duties as master of ceremonies on numerous occasions. He's a gifted speaker as well, presenting his cartoons on an overhead projector when he speaks.
He makes no prints of his work; those who purchase a painting know they have the original. Samples of his talent may be found on the internet by clicking on to: http://www.oilsbyolin.com/; his internet site is: olin@aceweb.com. or they may be viewed, and bought, at Helen's Garden Restaurant near Baltimore. There are always 40 paintings on sale and display there, and he is placing paintings and prints in the new Kayak Sports Complex in Garrett County. Allegany Magazine features his cartoons under "Yoder's World."
His younger brother, Gary, is a noted woodcarver as was their father. He's been featured in numerous articles displaying his skill and accomplishments.
Olin's personalized cartoon is shown with his profile.
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