A few months ago, I wrote a letter to the editor of the Thurmont Dispatch congratulating him on the excellent publication he initiated. What I failed to do was properly recognize Ms. Lori Smith-Zentz for the wonderful service she provided to north Frederick County for the past several years [over 10 years] by publishing The Catoctin Banner. The truth is that until Ms. Zentz pointed out my shortcomings, I had not read the Banner. Since then, I made it a point to do so.

Citizens of north Frederick County are very fortunate to have two superb publications published on a regular periodic basis. Both provide up to date information from different perspectives and reporting styles so you can receive a well rounded view of events taken place in your community. Each of them also offers opportunities to the community to present views and opinions through its editorial pages and advertising space so you can get your message to the population you serve.

What I like most about the Banner is its positive tone. All of the stories in the four most recent issues that I read are factual, unbiased, upbeat, well written and fosters a sense of community. During that period, my favorite was, "The Eagle Has Landed at Cunningham Falls". Most of us would love to visit Alaska, if we have not done so yet. And, here is an Eagle that made the reverse trip. How cool is that? Yes, you are very fortunate to receive such outstanding publications. If you are not aware of the activities and news in your community, it is not because of the lack of outstanding news publications.

Lori, keep up the great work. Your community is a better place to live because of it.

— Mike Cady, Vice President, Frederick County Board of Commissioners