Lois Szymanski

Union Bridge farmer Belinda Burrier was elected earlier this month to serve a third term on the executive committee of the United Soybean Board, a national organization of farmers that seeks to increase the return on investment for all soybean farmers in the United States.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s not only a reminder for women to get their mammograms it’s also a good time to spotlight advances in medical science and the hope they bring. A Carroll Hospital doctor has been in the field long enough to see progress firsthand.

Trainer Hannah Catalino and fellow mustang trainer Lisanne Fear will ride 5,000 miles across the United States — from Delaware to California — in an effort to raise awareness about the plight of the mustang, and to see 5,000 mustangs adopted along the way.

One group of teens are an integral part of the work that goes on behind the scenes — the 4-H Ambassador Team — leading outreach efforts, interactive fair activities and leadership experiences.

When Carroll County 4-Her Makenna Steele was about to turn seven, she made a decision. Instead asking for presents at her birthday, she asked for money that she would use to buy items for charity. That decision was the start of something big — a project that would lead her to be awarded a $5,000 grant and put her on the verge of launching a nonprofit.

With help from her producer, son Caelan, The Human Condition with Lisa Gregory was born. Each podcast, done from a studio set up in her Taneytown home, is an inspirational bundle that wraps itself around the heart, something Gregory believes is important, especially in today’s world.

Eight people who live at Carroll Lutheran Village collected 500 plastic bags — the bags their meals have been delivered in during the pandemic. Another team of five purchased items on the needs list — both locally and online. Then three crews assembled the items into bags, with another group delivering to The Shepherd’s Staff.

“It is important,” said Dr. Stephanie Buckley, who practices at Carroll Health Group Primary Care in Mount Airy. “Women are so busy taking care of households, kids, parents and others around them. This is a good time to remind them to think of [themselves], to schedule routine care and heart health, to be preventative and on track so you can stay out of the hospital.”

Many heroes who stepped forward to serve are now illuminated. Among them are Carroll Hospital’s recently named Physician of the Year, Dr. Sarah Lentz, and Advanced Practice Provider of the Year, Judith Stambaugh.

According to Spring Meadow Farms owner Stan Dabkowski, the farm has already booked a few spring tours, something he looks forward to with pride. “Over the past 34 years we have given nearly a quarter million tours,” he said.

Eagle Scout Logan Cavanagh said the adventure, summer camping trips, and the friendships he has made through scouting have all made this journey one he is grateful for.

“Every New Year’s Eve, the excitement is palpable in The Family Birthplace as we wait for the first baby of the new year. It fills everyone with such joy, happiness and hope for the new year."

The Retreat at Beckleysville offers recreational, competitive, and therapeutic riding for people of all ages and abilities in a safe environment with minimal cost. Riders come from all over to enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere and the enriching approach of its trained volunteers.

Sykesville farmer Glenn Rash will kick off the season for MPT’s “Maryland Farm & Harvest” show, airing Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m.

The type of tumor Abby has, known as ATRT, is an atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor, a rare, aggressive tumor that generally strikes very young children. Renehan said the fact that Abby is little older than most who get it has been a blessing, because she was old enough for radiation.