Recently in York celebrities Category

Democrat George Leader of York County, Pa., earned the Nov. 15, 1954, Time magazine cover after his election as Pennsylvania's governor. (See additional photo below). Also of interest: Wolf would join long list of Yorkers to gain political posts and York native, Pa. Gov. George Leader cleared dam plan and List of luminaries with Dover-area links lengthens.

Pennsylvania, an old, populous state near everything, is sometimes faulted for not producing more U.S. presidents.

James Buchanan, the state's only entry, doesn't count for much, often rated in the lower tier of U.S. presidents. Neighboring Ohio, in contrast, has produced six U.S. presidents.

Likewise, York County, an old, populous county near the political power centers of Harrisburg and Philadelphia, has not had the success one might expect in producing large numbers of ranking state officials since 1800.

Gov. George M. Leader is an exception, the only York County-produced holder of the state's top office, and a respected one at that... .

York (Pa.) Mayor John Brenner, Pennsylvania governor Ed Rendell and Steve Stetler, right, get together during Rendell's visit to York in February 2004. Rendell later appointed Stetler, a York County native, as state revenue secretary. Stetler resigned that position today, hours before state prosecutors implicated him in the ongoing public corruption investigation, Bonusgate. Also of interest: List of high state officials hailing from York County grows and Add Robert P. Kane to list of prominent York County politicos and Jeremiah S. Black among top government officials with York County ties.

Shortly after his election as York's state representative in 1990, Steve Stetler sat in a group at a table at the Yorktowne Hotel.

The wave of introductions went around the table before stopping with Stetler.

He introduced himself as Steve Stetler. That was it.

It was a humble gesture for a politician. No, bravado. No effort to reinforce his name with his position.

His brand, in other words.

For many years, that was the likeable Stetler's public approach... .

George F. Kennan helped set U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War and won a Pulitzer Prize. He also purchased a farm in eastern Adams County and was known to many folks in the East Berlin, Pa., area. Also of interest: Hanover's Cold Warrior J.W. Gitt's mansion: 'You can look down and see the town laid down before you' and York still twinning with France, Germany after 50-plus years and Cuban expert and York editor Jim Higgins: 'He was just another journalist ... with opinions'.

The late "Green Acres" actor and World War II war hero Eddie Albert wasn't the only celebrity with East Berlin ties.

Historian George F. Kennan served the Allied cause in World War II as a diplomat in European capitals.

He was winner of the Pulitzer Prize. Twice.

He promoted the policy of containment to prevent the spread of communism via the "domino effect." Some believe that policy led to the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War in 1989.

He's the topic of a popular book "The Hawk and the Dove: Paul Nitze, George Kennan, and the History of the Cold War".

And he also owned a farm in the East Berlin area of Adams County... .

With a landslide win Tuesday night, Kim Bracey became York, Pa.'s first black mayor and third woman to hold that office since 1887. Also of interest: Mattie Chapman, first black elected county official profiled, Pioneering women in state politics and 10 years ago, York's exclusive Lafayette Club became less exclusive.

The election of Kim Bracey as the first black person to hold the mayoral seat in York City and Chuck Patterson as the first black person to sit on the bench in York County calls for an updating of the list of political and community firsts.

Patterson also became the second person of color - and the first male - to win countywide office. Mattie Chapman gained election to the post of prothonotary in 1975.

Here are updated lists of pioneers, plus an updated list of York mayors since 1887, when York became a city:

Amy Staub submitted this photograph for publication in the new book Capture York. It shows her grandfather, Franklin Armold, and his wife, Lillian while out for a motorcycle ride in the 1920s. Also of interest: All presidential visits from the start and Washington Township, Jefferson Borough, Madison Avenue. How about an Obama Street in York County? and Yo, Yoe never was Yohe.

Years ago, Sam Snyder, Yoe borough council president, garnered a box of letters at a York County auction.

The writer?

Chester Alan Arthur.

That turned out to be Chester A. Arthur, future president of the United States... .

The New York Giants' Willie Mays makes what has become known as "The Catch" of York County native and Cleveland Indians Vic Wertz's long fly ball in the 1954 World Series. Mays amazing play overshadowed Wertz's stellar performance in that series. Background posts: Who were most prominent 20th-century sports heroes in York and Adams counties? and York County sports a miniature Cooperstown and Story answers much about great athlete Hinkey Haines, including origin of his nickname.

I've written before about York native and major league baseball player Vic Wertz.

All he did was hit .500 in the 1954 World Series in which his Cleveland Indians lost to the New York Giants.

He returned from a bout with polio to hit 32 home runs.

Late in his career, he broke his ankle and came back to play on.

But it was that World Series and Willie Mays' over-the-shoulder grab of Wertz's long fly ball that relegated Vic Wertz to baseball's "almost-great" list.

But this post really isn't about baseball.

In a York Sunday News column (11/1/09), I compare Vic Wertz to his native York County, Pa., a kind of human metaphor for this south central Pennsylvania county ... .

York, Pa.'s Martin Library honored Emanuel A. Cassimatis for library and community involvement at a recent ceremony. The event also served as a fundraiser for the library's endowment fund, used to purchased new books. (See list of past honorees and Cassimatis' favorite books below.) The Cassimatises: 'Builders and Heroes,' Part I and William Penn Senior High School Hall of Fame honors a host of York County achievers and York's Martin Library asks community: What to do with those old doors?.

Retired York County Judge Emanuel A. Cassimatis was meeting with the president of Bosnia-Herzegovina as part of the International Tribunal of Children's Rights. It was the Friday following the terrorist attack of Sept. 11, 2001.

During introductions, the president express his sympathy to Cassimatis, as a U.S. representative, for the tragedy.

"You know," he told the group, "we are all bound by a universal consciousness so that when something happens to one of us, it affects all of us."

Cassimatis told that story in receiving an award from Martin Library. This member of York's pioneering Greek family then summarized its meaning and what it says about community involvement... .

Ed Kowalczyk, York, Pa., native and member of the rock band Live, performed last night at the Strand-Capitol Performing Arts Center in York. That same night, author Jonah Lehrer talked at York's Martin Library about themes from his best-selling "How We Decide." Also of interest: You maybe didn't know it but ... they're from York County and Jonah Lehrer, author with York County ties, writes 'precocious and engaging' book and Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here.

Two celebrities with local ties delighted audiences in York County last night.

Ed Kowalczyk, of Live, gave a well-received acoustic performance to a near-capacity audience at the Strand.

A couple of blocks away, New York Times best-selling author Jonah Lehrer engaged an enthusiastic audience in the Quiet Reading Room at Martin Library.

Now in his late 30s and pursuing a solo career, Kowalczyk grew up in York County, as did other members of Live. In the 1990s, the group gained international renown for the album "Throwing Copper" and made it to the cover of Rolling Stone... .

Hanover High School's Al Bemiller became known nationally as Jack Kemp's center during the Buffalo Bill's glory years in the mid-1960s. (To learn about a Bemiller hobby during his days in York County, see the back side of his player card below.) Also of interest: Wikipedia profiles Al Bemiller and seven others with national status bearing Hanover roots and Academy Award-winning costume designer Ann Roth's sketches exhibited in Hanover and How Hanover's Eichelberger school morphed into 'The Eich'.

The Buffalo Bills - yes, the Buffalo Bills - made the news twice this week in York County.

An 18-year-old New Freedom resident is leading the charge to purchase billboard space near Buffalo to show concern about this NFL's team inability to win.

Susquehannock High School grad Ryan Abshagen is fed up with the Bills' losing ways.

Then, Red Lion High School's quarterback has been dismissed from the team. Chad Kelly is the nephew of former Bills quarterback and football hall of famer Jim Kelly.

But actually York County has enjoyed a connection with the Bills for years.

Hanover High School's Al Bemiller played center on the Bills' championship teams in the 1960s... .

A photo of Eddie Plank holding a baseball on the wall of Gettysburg Eddies, an eatery in Adams County, Pa., tied to native son and baseball Hall of Famer Eddie Plank. Also of interest: Remembering York/Adams major leaguers and Vancouver, B.C., has beauty, but York, Pa., has a life-sized Brooks Robinson statue and York County sports a miniature Cooperstown.

Fellow blogger Pat Abdalla has profiled baseball players from York and Adams counties who performed in the Major League post-season.

The most prominent is Vic Wertz and his long fly ball out hauled in by Willie Mays.

In his Southpaw blog, Pat also explores the post-season work of: ... .

The community mausoleum sits largely forgotten at York, Pa.'s, Prospect Hill Cemetery. Also of interest: Statesman buried in Prospect Hill Cemetery: 'He said his farewells to his family ... ' and Navy SEAL Neil C. Roberts: 'In this simple grave ... lies a national hero' and What's the story of that fenced-in graveyard atop a hill near I-83?.

In the reaches of Prospect Hill Cemetery rests an almost forgotten community mausoleum whose 420 crypts bear the remains of the Pfaltzgraff and Shipley families as well as those of lesser local luminaries.

York Daily Record/Sunday News reporter Jeff Frantz (10/4/09) wrote about the current renovation of the large building, which measures 45 paces in width with a 20-foot high ceiling.

The building will observe its 100th birthday in 1914, and Civil War veterans Lewis E. Smyser was the first burial in the mausoleum... .

York County, Pa., native Samuel Jordan is known as the father of modern education in Iran. He will be honored at events at the Samuel Jordan Foundation in Califorrnia in October. Background posts: Three Rhodes Scholars call York County their boyhood home and Fawn Township's magnificent Centre Presbyterian Church worthy of a looksee and Church's story links up with U.S. religious history.

About 10 family members of York native Samuel Martin Jordan will soon travel to University of California,
Irvine.

The university's Samuel M. Jordan Center for Persian Studies and Culture is honoring Jordan and his family as part of an October conference:The Alborz School: An International Conference. Jordan was part of the genius and energy behind that school, which grew into a college... .

The Hippodrome, one of downtown York's many theaters in their early 20th-century heyday, is example of stories told in a Junior Curators' exhibit unveiled this week at the York County (Pa.) Heritage Trust. Background posts: You maybe didn't know it but ... they're from York County - Part II and TV show box set 'Terry & the Pirates' to be part of a museum exhibit someday? and Young curators produce York Fair exhibit: 'A Fair of Our Own'.

Maybe it was meant to be.

Big league pitcher James "Lefty" York lived his later years in York, Pa.

He was in the majors for a cup of coffee with the Philadelphia Athletics and Chicago Cubs covering parts of two seasons, 1919 and 1921. He compiled a 5-11 record in 42 games.

The Arkansan would be forgotten to history, except that Junior Curator Alex Daugherty has resurrected him as part of "From Artists to Athletes: a History of Entertainment in York County" exhibit at the York County Heritage Trust... .

Baseball great Brooks Robinson is seen in his York (Pa.) White Roses uniform in 1955. His statue can be seen everyday in Brooks Robinson Plaza at York's Sovereign Bank Stadium. Background posts: Brooks Robinson - and stories about his York, Pa., pro debut - enduring and York Town Square reader: 'I thought Vic Wertz had some connection to York?' and Baseball's Methuselah played for White Roses.

True or false?

Brooks Robinson broke into professional baseball in York and went to the majors and greatness after a short gig here, never to return to minor league baseball?

The answer is .... .

The New York Times obituary about York native Ernest W. Lefever gave insight concerning a controversy involving Lefever during the Reagan administration. Other posts of interest: York County high school grads teach lessons in achievement on national stage and York County home to national pro-life leader and In recent years, York County presidential endorsements a mixed bag.

Another case in which all roads seem to lead to York... .

Native son and York High grad Ernest Lefever died at the age of 89 recently, and his local obituary noted his leadership of internationally known The Ethics and Public Policy Center.

His accomplishments were such that he earned a New York Times obituary, which stated in part:

In this York Sunday News photo from 1958, York (Pa.) Little Theatre's Jean Farlow makes noted screen actor Cameron Mitchell appear 40 years older for his part as the William Jennings Bryan character in "Inherit the Wind." A photo of the production was part of a York County Heritage Trust exhibit opening this week. Other posts of interest: Former York countian-turned-screen-writer Laurice Elehwany: How to make it as a writer and Young Alan Alda performed along the Codorus? Researcher checking that out and Many national stars first performed on YLT's stage.

Paper covers the exhibit cases that are part of the York County Heritage Trust's "From Artists to Athletes: A History of Entertainment in York County."

The Trust's Junior Curators, a group of budding exhibit overseers, will unveil their handiwork starting on Friday, with the exhibit running through Oct. 30.

But a label near one of the covered cases serves as a reminder about one of York County's leaders in the entertainment field - probably the most honored actor ever from the county... .

York, Pa., artist Horace Bonham, 1835-1892, was one of 19th-century York's best known personalities. Today, his best-known painting is "Nearing the Issue at the Cockpit." Background posts: A short test of your York black history knowledge - Part II, Exhibit captures decades-long flow of wide Susquehanna and Artist Jeff Koons came back to York for a show.

The Philadelphia Eagles' signing of quarterback Michael Vick of dogfighting ring infamy shows the disgrace of such a crime in the 21st century.

But it's interesting that animal-fighting did not hold such ignominy 150 years ago... .

Thomas V. Chatman Jr., a pioneer in York's (Pa.) black community, passed away this week. Background posts: Mattie Chapman, first black elected county official profiled, Pioneering women in state politics and 10 years ago, York's exclusive Lafayette Club became less exclusive.

Tom Chatman, York's first black chief of police, died this week, and Mike Argento's obituary story quite rightly details his accomplishments on the road to that office.

"He endured, back in his days as a patrolman and later a detective, the most vile racial epithets from bigots and being called an Uncle Tom by members of his own community," Argento wrote.

To boil down a list of Chatman accomplishments, he became York's police chief within 10 years after the York race riots ended. The practices and policies of York's police department contributed to those terrible summers of 1968 and 1969.

With the spotlight on this pioneer, it seems right to repeat or three-peat his place in this sampling of minority and female "firsts" in York County's past, many of which have occurred since 1970:

In a March 10, 1995, story, The York Daily Record tells about the then-upcoming "The Brady Bunch Movie," written by former York countian Laurice Elehwany. Background posts: Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here and Artist Jeff Koons came back to York for a show and Add another to list of entertainers with York links.

"Until she was 13, Laurice Elehwany lived a few miles outside Spring Grove. She swam in Lake Pahagaco. She ate cotton candy at the York Fair. She directed her neighborhood friends in skits she devised. And she watched 'The Brady Bunch' on TV. Today 30-year-old Elehwany lives in Hollywood and writes screenplays. She achieved her first success three years ago with 'My Girl.' Now she can also lay claim to the current hit 'The Brady Bunch Movie.' "

That's how a York Daily Record story in 1995 introduced local-girl-made-good Laurice Elehwany.

The recent Jefferson Carnival reminded me of Elehwany, successful in Hollywood but almost forgotten around York County.

She small-town setting in "My Girl" was based on her memories of Jefferson borough in southwestern York County, according to the Daily Record... .

Former Oakland Raider teammates, Mo Collins, right, and Lincoln Kennedy, joke around between holes during the Celebrity Golf Classic in June. Background posts: Names of stars from York County with pro sports links just keep increasing and York County has produced star NFL players and Lineup full of sports stars with York County links.

Lincoln Kennedy was born and raised in York.

He starred at the University of Washington, attracted the Atlanta Falcon's first-round pick in 1993 and later played on three division champions with the Oakland Raiders.

Before retiring in 2003, he was viewed as a leader on and off the field.

And he's still leading.

He's a good example of a celebrity who has not forgotten his hometown, coming back frequently to lend his name to charity efforts... .

Betty Bury Harmon, here at the York Fair, looks at herself in front of her family's hamburger stand in an old fair book. "They just developed it," Harmon said about her father and his brothers. "They came up with the sauce, and it hit." Each year, York Fair offers Bury's burgers at a stand where Harmon's recipe - still secret - is served as well as at a second unrelated stand. But versions of the secret Bury's recipe are available in homes across York County and will be deployed on scores of grills today. Background posts: Lighthouse marks site of landmark Dover Township soft pretzel stand and Interstate lined out Melvin's swan song and Just try to resist this memory-tugging photo of North York's White Oak Park .

Hits on York Town Square posts for Bury's Famous Hamburger recipes escalate this time of year.

People probably around the world are looking to see whether to try out their own Bury's recipe this holiday or experiment with one of the many variations in the public domain - some documented on this blog.

Joe Bury operated a chain of hamburger stands touting a secret recipe for the red sauce that covered his delicious burgers, firmly sealed into the memories of local residents.

So, to avoid all that searching, here are some leads to recipes which purport to be Bury's:

Sandra Smallwood-Stockton recently retired from the U.S. Army as a lieutenant colonel. To reach that rank, she soldiered through much adversity. Background posts: Pioneering aviator Aline Rhonie another York native who made U.S. headlines and A short test of your York black history knowledge and York County WWII nurse: 'You know, it was the biggest war ever, and they needed nurses'.

In recent York Town Square posts, we've featured:

- York countians who have achieved in the military.

- York County grads who have accomplished much as civilians on the national stage.

- York's William Penn grads whose work has elevated them to that school's hall of fame.

Now comes Sandra Smallwood-Stockton - that's Lt. Col. Sandra Smallwood-Stockton - who attended William Penn but earned her high school degree in Maryland... .

Judge Emanuel A. Cassimatis, William Penn Senior High School class of 1944, is a member of the William Penn Hall of Fame. The retired judge of York County Court is among an elite group of achievers who are members of the hall. Background posts: York County sports a miniature Cooperstown and York County high school grads teach lessons in achievement on national stage and York County native Maj. Gen. David F. Wherley Jr. assumed major role in guarding post-9/11 D.C.

A recent post about an upcoming Smithsonian exhibit honoring pioneering Appalachian Trail through-hiker Earl Shaffer included an interesting fact

The most famous trail hiker in the world had to wait three years to be inducted into the William Penn Hall of Fame.

The hall takes one person a year and equally deserving candidates had been nominated before him.

That should show the quality of those who are members of the hall.

Who are others who have been so honored? ... .

York County's Jeff Koons' statue of Michael Jackson and his pet chimp Bubbles is among Koons best known. Background posts: List of luminaries with Dover links lengthens and Proposed 'Creation of a Nation' museum name glib, but lacks grounding and All York County celebrities posts from the start and Othmar Carli: 'Restoration is much better than selling shoes to make a living'.

And here's more proof that when something happens in the world, there's always a York County tie-in.

Pop icon Michael Jackson, dead at the age of 50, has never been to York County. But there's always a York link to such a captivating/controversial person as Jackson.

Jeff Koons, who grew up in Dover, brings that link.

Koons, world-renowned pop artist, created the life-size, white porcelain "Michael Jackson and Bubbles.' It's owned by the San Franciso Museum of Modern Art, and one reviewer who saw it there called it "memorably creepy."

Here are some links for "Bubbles" and Jeff Koons:

Hal Colston, a York native who has become a leader in the anti-poverty movement in Vermont judges greens in a February 2008 cookoff. The event took place at Hannah Penn Middle School, where he attended before matriculating to William Penn Senior High School. Background posts: All celebrities posts from the start and All York County people posts and William Penn: People mag features York native Hal Colston as a 'Hero Among Us.'

The recent high school graduation season provided an impetus to gather links to national achievers who received their sheepskins from York County secondary schools.

These are just a few of hundreds and hundreds.

Just consider this a history lesson from the blogs:

Two York County natives, Maj. Gen. David F. Wherley Jr., pictured here, and his wife, Ann, were killed in this week's Washington, D.C., metro crash. Background posts: All York County celebrities posts from the start and All York County people posts and All York County war posts.

The collision of two Metro trains in Washington, D.C., this week claimed the lives of two former York countians, Maj. Gen. David F. Wherley Jr and his wife, Ann.

They graduated from York Catholic High School in 1965.

A York Daily Record story (6/24/09) reported that David Wherley, retired commanding general of the D.C. National Guard, was a prominent official after the 9/11/01 terrorist attacks.

"He dispatched planes in the airspace over Washington, D.C., armed with live ammunition, according to his brother, Clark Wherley of York," the newspaper reported... .

The parlor of the Bonham House, now a York (Pa.) museum, is shown here. The 19th-century house was remodeled in 1933. The York County Heritage Trust-operated attraction was recently featured in the local magazine 'Spaces.' (See additional photos below.) Background posts: Artist Horace Bonham captured everyday life and From 'Spaces': Dempwolf's Ashcombe Mansion in Cumberland County: 'I spent a fortune on this house. It's crazy' and Also from 'Spaces' - Women's Club of York: 'No one knew it really looked like this' .

Horace Bonham was a 19th-century York County Renaissance Man.

He was a lawyer and newspaper owner and artist, among many other things.

His work with the brush seemed to be his consuming passion, and his work is shown today at Washington, D.C.'s, Corcoran Gallery in Washington and at his former residence in York's East Market Street.

'Spaces,' a York County homes magazine published by the York Daily Record/Sunday News, visited the Bonham House and will tell its story in an upcoming edition through words and photos:

Earl Shaffer chat with fellow Appalachian Trail hikers north of Harpers Ferry during his last through hike in July 1998. Other hikers recognized the celebrity Shaffer during this hike, which came on the 50th anniversary of his first through hike - the first such on the Appalachian Trail. West Manchester book contains valuable gold coins' and Who were most prominent 20th-century sports heroes in York and Adams counties? and Highpoint offers Susquehanna River view for the ages.

West Manchester resident Earl Shaffer was out of the service after Army Signal Corps duty in World War II.

And he was ready to "walk the Army out of my system" on the Appalachian Trail.

"Late in 1947 I had seen an article in an outdoor magazine entitled 'The Long Trail's Challenge,' " he wrote in in his book "Walking with Spring." "It said that no one was known to have hiked the entire Trail in a continuous journey, though many had tried, and such a trip might actually be impossible."

Shaffer proved it was possible with the first through hike in 1948, a second hike the other way in 1965 and a 50th anniversary hike in 1998. He was then almost 80 years old.

This information comes from a Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History news release, telling about the opening of an Earl Shaffer exhibit next month... .

Millard E. Gladfelter rose from teaching in York County schools to the rank of president of Temple University. Background posts: Christ Lutheran is oldest York church - but how old? and Glatfelter, Morgan Smith head industrial legacy list and Glatfelter family history is as clear as ... paper.

Millard E. Gladfelter, of the York County Gladfelters, hit for the cycle in the educational game.

He taught in one-room York County schools. He taught at West York High School. He served as principal there. And later supervising principal of West York schools.

And still later, he became president of Temple University.

Yes, that giant university in Philadelphia.

And he helped make it so.

He is one of many successful descendents of Casper Glattfelter, who came to York County in 1743.

His last name is spelled with a "d," different from the papermaking Glatfelters, but he's still a Glattfelter.

Millard Gladfelter died at the age of 95 in 1995.

His obituary, as distributed by Knight-Ridder wire service (2/16/09), tells about this popular, profoundly Pennsylvania Dutch educator, who never forgot his York County roots.

Excerpts follow:

York County native Samuel Jordan is known as the father of modern education in Iran. He was ordained into the ministry in southeastern York County, and went overseas as a missionary. He is buried in Centre Presbyterian Church's cemetery, New Park. Background posts: Three Rhodes Scholars call York County their boyhood home and Fawn Township's magnificent Centre Presbyterian Church worthy of a looksee and Church's story links up with U.S. religious history.

All roads do lead to York.

This road includes New Park, in southeast York County; Persia, now Iran; and University of California, Irvine branch.

And it involves a minister named Samuel Martin Jordan.

The tie that binds these places comes from an e-mail written by Stewartstown's Kathryn Jordan. Samuel Jordan is Kathryn's late husband's uncle - Uncle Mart.

Here are the links:

This York County Heritage Trust photo shows two Navy men with York County roots. Richard M. Watt, Sr. and Richard M. Watt, Jr. Watt Sr. helped investigate the sinking of the "Titanic" and his son reached rear admiral rank and was at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. (See additional "Titanic" - related photo below.) Background posts: Naval Reserve officer, a York High grad, to become admiral and York native to captain new carrier USS Bush and Gitmo second in command hails from York County.

York County has not one, not two but three links to the Titanic, brought back into the news last week when the last survivor of its 1912 sinking passed away.

The story of Richard M. Watt Sr.'s role in investigating the sinking is told in the York Town Square post York has produced its share of high-ranking naval officers, based on research by fellow blogger June Lloyd.

That post features a book cover photo of an Army man, Gen. William B. Franklin.

His family leads to the second and third links to the Titanic.

According to excerpts from "Never to be Forgotten":

Some things never change. Here's the Gazette and Daily's Walt Partymiller's take on June 1, 1949, about adventures and challenges facing high school and college grads. Background posts: Cartoonist made York newspaper owner's views an art form and Newspaper's founding date hard to pin down and Further education plans, YorkCounts quality-of-life indicator: Post-high-school prospects rising.

That happened recently when I was looking for what happened 60 years ago, on June 1, 1949.

History has a beginning and will have an ending and has meaning. None of this circular stuff. But sometimes recurring themes just keep popping up, as I was reminded on my scroll.

Some summaries from The Gazette and Daily for that date that might interest you:

Edwin S. Shneidman, author of 20 books, wrote broadly about suicide prevention. The York, Pa., native died recently in Los Angeles. Background posts: All posts about celebrities with York links and All posts about others with York links.

Edwin Shneidman was one of America's foremost experts on suicide.

But little is known about the local roots of this York, Pa.-born psychologist with a worldwide reputation... .

David Kushner's "Levittown" tells the story of the York, Pa.'s Bill and Daisy Myers and the discrimination they faced after moving into a new house in Bucks County's Levittown in 1957. Background posts: Future Yorker Daisy Myers' harassment in Levittown part of NYT mag article and York's and Levittown's Daisy Myers: Rosa Parks of the North and A short test of your York black history knowledge and Mattie Chapman's barrier-breaking legacy apparent in York County 30 years later.

In her memoir "Sticks 'n Stones," Daisy Myers wrote about her family's terrible confrontation with discrimination after buying their dream house in the new, all-white Bucks County suburb of Levittown in 1957.

She told about that experience, and brought readers up to date about the family's later years after moving back to York, her husband Bill's hometown.

Author David Kushner did what journalists call a "write through" in telling the Myers' Levittown story. The 2009 work draws from - and expands upon by bringing in many other sources - Myers' 2005 memoir... .

Challenger Tom Kearney, left, and Stan Rebert square off in a Rotary forum earlier this month. The forum was streamed live via the York Daily Record's Web site, www.ync.com/ydr. (Updated: Stan Rebert conceded defeat in the primary to Tom Kearney at about 10:30 p.m. on primary day. Kearney faced no opposition in the November election and was elected as York County's 11th D.A. in the past 60 years.) Background posts: York County Dems slumped, GOP prospered in 1980s and Noted York family produced Pa. Supreme Court justice and For years, York countians part of major court cases

If Tom Kearney unseats Stan Rebert to win the Republican primary today, he will have displaced a York County institution.

Of course, Kearney is an institution himself, handling the defense of many of the highest profile capital cases in the past two decades.

It's a battle between York County's most prominent defense counsel vs. its top law enforcement officer.

Whoever wins, the district attorney's office has housed some of York County's highest profile lawyers for decades.

The following were York County's district attorneys since 1950, according to Georg Sheets' "Lawyers and Leaders":

An Associated Press photographer captured Roman Polanski attending a funeral in January in France. He now faces extradition to the United States. Polanski has an unfortunate link to York County. Background posts: All York celebrities posts from the start and All explanations and controversy posts from the start.

Last week, Academy Award winning film director Roman Polanski lost a bid in court for the judge to dismiss a 1978 rape charge against him.

According to Reuters, the Los Angeles judge would not consider the case until Polanski appeared before him. The fugitive director has been living outside the United States after fleeing upon his guilty plea in the rape of a 13-year-old girl.

Why bring all of this into York Town Square?

The 13-year-old had York links (see photo below) ... .

The York Daily Record tells about native son and major league slugger Vic Wertz's life and career upon his death in 1983. Here, Wertz holds a photo sequence of his most-noted mark in baseball history. He smashed the 450-foot fly ball that Willie Mays turned into "The Catch" in the 1954 World Series. Background posts: Babe Ruth, indeed, played in York in 1928 and York turned its eyes to Joe DiMaggio and Before the York Revs came the Hanover Raiders.

When York-born major leaguer Vic Wertz did not make the top 10 list of 20th-century York County sports heroes, one fan posed a revealing question:

"How could you leave off Vic Wertz?"

Vic Wertz, indeed, was one of York County's most accomplished professional athletes.

If his long smash had eluded Willie Mays in the 1954 World Series, he would have been on that York Sunday News' list.

But Mays' execution of "The Catch" relegated Vic Wertz to a footnote in national history... .

Costume designer Ann Roth, a Hanover native, created this sketch for Meryl Streep for a scene in "Mamma Mia!" Hanover Area Historical Society President James E. Schuman shows off the sketch, which was part of an exhibit of Roth's sketches at the Warehime-Myers Mansion in Hanover. Background posts: York County's Ludwig family produces two national headliners and Area loom makes costumes for Hollywood and TV show box set 'Terry & the Pirates' to be part of a museum exhibit someday?.

Hanover native Ann Roth began her career as a scenery painter for the Pittsburgh Opera.

But her gift for costume design was ready and waiting. And she's still designing years later.

So says a short bio of the famed designer on MakingOf.com, a Web site offering viewers a look at how movies are made through the eyes of the makers.

MakingOf.com is featuring the first of three scheduled Ann Roth videos... .

Gov. George M. Leader signs plans on March 19, 1958, for constructing the dam which formed the lake that became the centerpiece of Gifford Pinchot State Park in northern York County. Legislative aid and brother Henry B. Leader looks on. The location was chosen, according to The Gazette and Daily where this photograph was taken, because it was equidistant between York and Harrisburg. Background posts: Gov. George Leader cleared dam plan and Historians, journalists draw on work of forebears and Central Pennsylvania histories make smart part of summer reading stack.

York County - specifically Newberry Township - was home to the first Pinchot road, a highway program designed in the early 1930s "to get the farmer out of the mud."

That was the start of construction of some 20,000 miles of roads in Pennsylvania designed to aid farmers and to create jobs during the growing Great Depression.

That program took then-Gov. Gifford Pinchot's name, as did the nearby state park that grew under the administration of York County native George Leader.

York County farmers might have felt some conflict at the time of the road program in 1931... .

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New York Giants center fielder Willie Mays hauls a 450-foot fly ball in the Polo Grounds' cavernous center field off the bat of Cleveland's - and York, Pa.'s - Vic Wertz during the first game of the 1954 World Series. The Giants won a 5-2 victory, thanks, in part, to Mays' handiwork. Background posts: Old York lefty remembered young Brooks Robinson and The Tuleyas: A love story, not baseballs and hand grenades and Adding to York baseball timeline: Revs ready for 'second helping'.

York Town Square viewer Bill Landes raised a good question in a comment about a recent post of major leaguer from York/Adams.

"I thought Vic Wertz had some connection to York?"

Yes, indeed.

The York native played outfield and first base for 17 seasons with six teams - the Detroit Tigers, St. Louis Browns, Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins... .

John D. Fair's book "Muscletown USA" gives insight into the role played by Bob Hoffman of York Barbell in the use of steroids in sports. Background posts: Who were most prominent 20th-century sports heroes in York and Adams counties? and Richard Nixon's visit to his namesake park sparks memories and York, Pa. made big, heavy things - and was immensely proud of it.

Major League Baseball again is exploring allegations that Alex Rodriguez use steroids as a member of the New York Yankees.

When steroid abuse makes the headlines, that raises the question about where steriod use in professional sports began - or at least came into steady use.

There's solid documentation that the answer is York, Pa... .

John G. Coulson's "Hanover Raiders, Minor League Baseball in Hanover, Pennsylvania" tells about the life and times and players in the Blue Ridge League. His work nicely adds to the repository of the names of major league players who hailed from or played in York and Adams counties. Background posts: Before the York Revs came the Hanover Raiders and Big league baseball fans from everywhere remember Gene Crumling and York County sports a miniature Cooperstown.

At the moment of the Atlantic League York Revolution's home opener for season No. 3, it's a good time to review former major leaguers with York roots as well as those who were here for a cup of coffee.

Atlanta Braves superscout Paul Snyder is from York County. So is Greg Gross. And Jim Spencer. And Gene Cumling. And Ken Raffensberger.

Robert Rohrbaugh might be the region's next major leaguer.

York Town Square just profiled Eddie Plank, the great southpaw 300-game winner.

Just when you think you exhausted the pool of York/Adams countians with Major League Baseball ties (click here for another long and impressive list) who were born here or lived here, you run across another batch... .

Eddie Plank, a Gettysburg native, won more than 300 games in his Major League Baseball career, the first lefthander to do so. Plank ended his career with 327 victories. He entered the majors in 1901 and retired in 1917. He became a hall-of-famer in 1946. Background posts: Story answers much about great athlete Hinkey Haines, including origin of his nickname and Southpaw could be next York/Adams major leaguer and Baseball's Methuselah played for White Roses.

A Gettysburg restaurant recently has themed native son and baseball Hall-of-Famer Eddie Plank.

"Gettysburg is a town that lives on the dead, their legends, speeches and actions.
Most restaurants, gift shops and museums have themes that deal with the borough's famous battlefield and presidential history," blogger Pat Abdalla wrote under the headline, Finding a niche with Eddie Plank.

"Restaurant owner Bill Wills, however, has found a different niche in Gettysburg's history: Eddie Plank, a legendary baseball player who was born and lived in the town."

This attention on Plank brings to mind a review of an article in "National Pastime" on Plank.

That York Sunday News article (7/25/04) debunked some myths about Plank, the first southpaw to win more than 300 games in the majors... .

Charlie Thomas, a York resident, and his group of 50 years, The Drifters, will perform at 8 p.m. today at Eichelberger Performing Arts Center in Hanover. For details: 637-7086 or www.theeich.org . Background posts: Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here and Famed doo-wopper from York, Pa. walks down the aisle of heaven and Memories and Nostalgia posts from the start.

"Charlie Thomas is The Drifters," York Daily Record/Sunday News columnist Mike Argento wrote in 2007.

Indeed.

Others have grabbed that name, but Charlie Thomas' Drifters is the authentic oldies group. That's saying a lot. A look at the complex Wikipedia entry for the multi-splintered group make you want to escape from it all up on the roof.

And area residents can see the real thing tonight in Hanover when Charlie and his widely traveled band perform within the borders of York County.

Here's an excerpt from Mike's Nov. 9, 2007, piece on Charlie, a York resident:

Jonah Lehrer's second book has been compared to Malcolm Gladwell's bestselling "Blink." He has York County ties. Background posts: York author's works adapted to the big screen: 'Legacies,' Part Last and Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here and 'Weekly Reader's' founder Eleanor Johnson, 'York Legacies,' Part III.

A considerable part of Jonah Lehrer's considerable gray matter originated in York County.

He is the son of York native Jean Hively.

The Columbia grad and Rhodes Scholar writes books that make national headlines.

His first book "Proust Was a Neuroscientist" gained notice in the New York Times Book Review, as has his brand new second work, "How We Decide."

A Malcolm Gladwell disciple? ...

William Solomon, owner of Pin Oak Lane Farm in Shrewsbury Township, is seen with Deposit Ticket in 2004. Deposit Ticket's offspring earned $1.4 million during the year. Pin Oak was the birthplace of 1992 Kentucky Derby winner Lil E. Tee (see photo below). Background posts: Glen Rock hilltop farm: 'You cannot stay stressed here for long' and Wiki profiles eight with national status bearing Hanover roots and Hames made in Shrewsbury Township's Hametown fueled early American horsepower and Two ornate mansions that Hanover Shoe built.

York County ranks third in the state behind Chester and Lancaster counties for the greatest number of racehorses, a Penn State researcher said a few years back.

"You don't have a racetrack in the county," the researcher said. "It's a bedroom community for those who do."

Bedroom community, yes.

But one of those horses who lived here and left will always have a York County birthplace in its biography.

That's Lil E. Tee, 1992 Kentucky Derby winner, who was put down this week.

These excerpts from a York Daily Record/Sunday News/AP story (3/24/09) tell about this first Pennsylvania-bred horse to win the Derby:

York County industrial leaders turned out in large numbers for a dinner at the Yorktowne Hotel in World War II. The York Plan resulting from their cooperation became a national model. Background posts: All York Corporation/Johnson Controls posts from the start and Industrialist Thomas Shipley's 'enduring monument' in York did not 'endure' and York Corporation played role in Manhattan Project.

York County's homefront and war front efforts well represented what it took across America to win the two-front World War II.

And the best York County offered on the homefront - and it was significant - was the York Plan.

But ask a York County audience about the York Plan and surprisingly few know even the vaguest details.

So, here's a quick synopsis of the plan: ... .

Chris Daughtry performs with Live's front man and York County native Ed Kowalczyk, right, on the 'American Idol' stage in 2006. It is well known that Live band leader Kowalczyk is from York. But the roots of other local folks performing on the national stage - or who did so in the past - aren't as well publicized. Background posts: Wiki profiles eight with national status bearing Hanover roots and Dorkin' in York box set features Kevin Jones and TV show box set 'Terry & the Pirates' to be part of a museum exhibit someday?.

An occasional visit to Wikipedia's list of famous people from York County always brings forth previously unknown connections to this region.

At least, usually unknown to me.

Here's a sampling of other people on the Wiki with York County links whose local connections might surprise and intrigue:

Former Hanoverian Ann Roth's photograph is seen next to a sketch from 'The English Patient.' She earned an Oscar for her costume work in that film. The Hanover (Pa.) Area Historical Society will display some of Roth's sketches in March at the Warehime-Myers Mansion in Hanover. Background posts: York County continuing ed classes offered for matures who love to learn and Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here and Young Alan Alda performed along the Codorus? Researcher checking that out.

The Hanover Area Historical Society is exhibiting sketches by famed costume designer Ann Roth this month.

In so doing, the society is taking a step the 20-something historical groups throughout York County should emulate: Embrace popular culture as part of the historical enterprise.

Communities throughout York County have produced dozens of celebrities... .

Former Chief County Detective Becky Downing, shown here in her 1997 York City Police trading card, was a pioneering police officer. She's also an answer to this year's women's history quiz. Background posts: World War II propaganda posters raised spirits, women's wrath and York County WWII nurse: 'You know, it was the biggest war ever, and they needed nurses' and
A short test of your women's history knowledge, Part I.

March is Women's History Month, and to get folks warmed up, here is a quiz about female pioneers in York County. (Answers below.)

Who was the first ...

1. First Latino city school board president?
2. First Latino school board member?
3. First appointed female mayor of York?
4. First elected female mayor of York?
5. First city female police officer?
6. First black elected York County row officer?
7. First female county commissioner?
8. First female York County Common Pleas Court judge?
9. First female state legislator?
10. First black homecoming queen, William Penn High School?

This old Prospect Hill Cemetery gate frames Civil War Soldiers Circle, where many who died at the U.S. Military General Hospital in Penn Park were buried. Lila Fourhman-Shaull tells about some of the noted Civil War-era residents who were buried in the cemetery in her "A Walking Tour of Civil War-Era residents at Prospect Hill Cemetery, York, Pa." Background posts: Navy SEAL Neil C. Roberts: 'In this simple grave ... lies a national hero' and 'He said his farewells to his family ... ' and Not all rebel wounded suffered after Gettysburg.

Scott Mingus' recent "Flames Beyond Gettysburg" is another book exploring York County's role in the Civil War.

Since 2000, various presses have produced these works touching on the county and the Civil War or exploring that era:

Red Lion's Scott Fitzkee has been named the greatest prep athlete in York and Adams counties history. Background posts: Story answers much about great athlete Hinkey Haines, including origin of his nickname and Central York High School's Laura Beveridge: 'I certainly have not forgotten her' and York athlete series: 'Arguably the best girls' volleyball player the area has ever seen'.

The votes are in, and former three-sport Red Lion star Scott Fitzkee reigns as York/Adams' Greatest Athlete, as put forth by the York Daily Record/Sunday News.

Readers placed Fitzkee, who went on to play football at Penn State and the NFL, at the top of their list, as did YDR/YN sportswriters Frank Bodani, Steve Navaroli and Sean McLernon. (Jim Seip listed him at third.)

Here is the vote of the readers:

Former Steeler George Tarasovic, No. 52, has a framed program profiling the Steelers versus the Cardinals in his York County, Pa., den. Background posts: Was Red Lion's Scott Fitzkee the most-talented three-sport athlete ever in York and Adams? and York County has produced star NFL players and Dover's/Packers' John Kuhn: 'He is able to grasp things very quickly'.

The number of present and former athletes, coaches and others in professional sports with York County connections keeps adding up.

Last year, Hanover native Pat Flaherty coached the offense line of Super Bowl Champs New York Giants.

York County was in the Super Bowl again.

At least three York countians are linked to the world champion Pittsburgh Steelers -George Tarasovic, John Norwig and Bruce Arians.

The following is quick information on the three based on York Daily Record/Sunday News reports:

Pro Football Hall of Famer Raymond Berry signs items at a January 2009 reception in York. Author Steve McKee includes Berry as part of his memories of the Baltimore Colts in his Da Capo Press book, "My Father's Heart." Background posts: 'When people are looking back into Pa. basketball history ... it's great' and Lineup full of sports stars with York County links and Playland plays nostalgic note for York countians.

How do you tie together such York County icons as York Area Sports Night, Gino's, York Catholic basketball and the Baltimore Colts?

Well, Steve McKee deftly did so in the following excerpt from his "My Father's Heart," soon to be released in paperback.

Here's an excerpt from the nationally distributed book, published in the York Sunday News (1/18/09):

First Moravian Church brought S. Morgan Smith to York as its pastor and his prominent family lived here for years. Steve Zirnkilton, a descendant and York County native, is known to millions. Background posts: How come few in York know about S. Morgan Smith anymore? , Samuel Small tops York, Pa. community contributor list, Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here.

Pastor-turned-entrepreneur S. Morgan Smith left a world-wide legacy by spawning the forerunners of Johnson Controls, Precision Components, Voith Siemens Hydro and American Hydro.

But a member in his family line, Steve Zirnkilton, is known to many more.

Or at least his voice is.

That's the voice of York native Zirnkilton that is spoken at the beginning of the TV show "Law & Order." ...

Henry 'Hinkey' Haines, left, and Babe Ruth were teammates on the 1923 World Series champion New York Yankees. Background posts: Southpaw could be next York/Adams major leaguer, York County sports a miniature Cooperstown and Red Lion's Butch Wynegar ranks bright among York's sports stars.

Henry L. "Hinkey" Haines might have been the most accomplished athlete ever to come out of York and Adams counties.

So contends Frank Bodani, who spearheaded the Greatest Athletes series now running weekly in the York Daily Record/Sunday News.

Certainly, he made the York Sunday News' top 10 list of greatest athletes of the 20th century.

But he did not make the top 10 list of Red Lion Area Senior High School athletes.

The book "Red Lion, The First One Hundred Years" offers a possible explanation for that:

Here's a hint to answer part of York County Smarts quiz, Part IV: This former York County legislator made history when she became the first woman elected to the General Assembly in the 1960s. (See additional photo below). York County smarts quiz, Part I, Part II, Part III.

Since its beginning, Pennsylvania has accomplished awesome results in the civilized arts -- more so than other areas of the United States of comparable size.

So says Philip Klein in his "History of Pennsylvania."

"Every region generates some creative people," he and co-author Ari Hogenboom wrote, "but Pennsylvania produced them by the hundreds."

Why?

Credit it to a diverse population, William Penn's quest for liberty and a varied, resource-rich geographic landscape.

Benjamin Franklin is Klein's Exhibit A of a Pennsylvania who showed original thought coupled with practical experiment.

All this could help explain why York countians have long made their mark on the state and national landscape... .

Scott Fitzkee graduated from Red Lion High School in 1975 and went on to play football at Penn State and the NFL. He was one of a number of York County athletes to play professional sports. Background posts:
York County has produced star NFL players, Ex-York countian, ex-Phillie Greg Gross: 'I'm jealous not to be sitting there in the dugout with them' and
Who were most prominent 20th-century sports heroes in York and Adams counties?.

"He was arguably the most talented three-sport athlete ever to come out of York and Adams counties."

That's how the York Daily Record/Sunday News' Greatest Athletes series describes three-sport Red Lion start Scott Fitzkee.

That selection is also certain to draw controversy, but the Greatest Athletes description makes the case for Fitzkee's accomplishments in football, basketball and track. He went on to play wide receiver for Penn State and then the Philadelphia Eagles and San Diego Chargers in the NFL, before ending his career in the USFL... .

Fellow blogger June Lloyd profiles Glen Rock native Cliff Heathcote who played major league baseball from 1918 to 1932. Somehow, this photo from The Gazette and Daily ended up on Google images. Heathcote, of the Heathcote family that helped found Glen Rock, is another major leaguer hailing from York County. Background posts: York County photo collection adds to historical record, 'The Commons' plays host to wonderful vintage photos and Fed photogs captured wonderful WWII images.

Philip Given, pgiven@gmail.com, passed along a Life magazine photo spread from May 1948 of trick shot champ Bob Geesey taking aim at an egg in York, Pa.

If you know anything more about Bob Geesey and his unique skills, comment below.

But this is a reminder that Google photos is a rich source of images, many historic, of York County... .

Eugene Ludwig, former comptroller of the treasury in the Clinton Administration, is one of three Rhodes scholars in York County's past. The most recent recipient, Gregory Lippiatt (see photo below), is also a York Suburban High School grad. Background posts: One-room school reunions preserve educational culture of thousands of York countians , PS Harrisburg grad school: 'Set my feet even more firmly on the path into the world of Fraktur' and York community leader: 'We didn't have equal opportunity to achieve'.

Gregory Lippiatt is York County's most recent Rhodes Scholar.

He was the first since fellow York Suburban grad Eugene Ludwig scored this prestigious honor in the late 1960s.

But the third Rhodes scholar from York County might be forgotten by many... .

U.S. Mint sculptor-engraver Don Everhart created this design for the new Lincoln dollar. Background posts: Engraver's work keeps his name in circulation, Is Civil War-era cash buried around Hanover? and Engraver's image: Going to market a longtime York County pastime

Last time Don Everhart made the news, the former York countian had designed a John Quincy Adams presidential coin.

This time, he helped make the new Abraham Lincoln dollar, as the following AP/York Daily Record/Sunday News story attests:

Wrightsville's Gene Crumling only had a cup of coffee in the major leagues, but fans from all over still remember the former catcher. Background posts: Before the York Revs came the Hanover Raiders, York County sports a miniature Cooperstown and Old York lefty remembered young Brooks Robinson .

Former major leaguer Gene Crumling has regained the limelight twice since September.

The 86-year-old normally lives in obscurity around York County.

He threw out the first pitch in the York Revolution's first playoff game in September - representing the county as the oldest living former major leaguer.

Then the Wrightsville High School grad made the York Daily Record/Sunday News' front page in a profile to preview Eastern York High School's greatest athletes, part of a 22-part newspaper series on York County's prep performers.

Crumling had 12 at-bats catching for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1945... .

Goldsboro's Greg Gross played for 17 seasons with the Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies, ending his Major League Baseball playing career in 1989. He has strong coaching links with several Phillies playing in the World Series. Background posts: Adding to York baseball timeline: Revs ready for 'second helping', Sol and Brooks lead long York County sports parade and Lineup full of sports stars with York County links.

York County native Greg Gross reminds you of fellow county major leaguer Butch Wynegar.

Gross attended Red Land High School. Wynegar graduated from Red Lion. Their eventful major league careers overlapped... .

A performance of York County native Ken Ludwig's 'Lend Me a Tenor' marks the opening of York College's Performing Arts Center. The center is at least the third large-scale venue for such performances in the York area, joining Penn State York's Pullo Family Performing Arts Center and York's Strand-Capitol Performing Arts Center. Background posts: TV show box set 'Terry & the Pirates' to be part of a museum exhibit someday?, 20 questions and answers to prove your York County smarts, Part III and Add another to list of entertainers with York links.

The student theater troupe, The York College Players, will perform "Lend Me a Tenor," by York County native Ken Ludwig.

Actually, Ludwig is half of a duo from the same York Suburban School District family to make international headlines.

Just this week, brother Eugene Ludwig, former comptroller general under the Clinton administration and now in the private sector, testified before Congress on the nation's financial crisis.

And actually, York Suburban has produced another set of prominent brothers:

Former York countian and now world-famous artist Jeff Koons created this artwork. Anne Lampe, director of the Demuth Museum in Lancaster, might have broken the code with her explanation: 'The Hoovers are such a social commentary piece. Here are these machines that were made to supposedly alleviate a housewife's chores, but have we really liberated women?' Background posts: Proposed 'Creation of a Nation' museum name glib, but lacks grounding, York County native Jeff Koons' work raises question: But is it art? Part I, Artist Jeff Koons came back to York for a show and Jeff Koons' sculpture brings record for a living artist's work

The display of artist Jeff Koons' work at Versailles, France, has again raised sentiments in his boyhood home of York County about why his art is such a big deal.

One detects dismay and sometimes anger that he gets recognition for work that seemingly anyone can do... .

Voni B. Grimes graduated from York's William Penn Senior High School mid-year in 1942. This is his graduation photo. Background posts: New book gives insight into Voni B. Grimes, Who are York County's most influential people? and A short test of your black history knowledge.

Two images among many stand out after a recent walk with community leader Voni B. Grimes.

We walked from his boyhood home to the site of his segregated Smallwood school and back.

The first image came when we gazed across the College Avenue at the former all-white Noell school, now occupied by the Community Progress Council. This College Avenue-Susquehanna Avenue intersection was a dividing point between the best education York schools could offer white pupils and hand-me-down education for black students.

And then a second image... .

The body of Navy SEAL Neil C. Roberts was laid to rest at Prospect Hill Cemetery in 2007, five years after he died in Afghanistan at the hands of al-Qaida. Background posts: Hammer-wielding Yorkers helped to nail kaiser's noggin , WWII in York County, by the numbers and War memorials stand proudly in towns throughout York County.

Navy SEAL Petty Officer 1st Class Neil C. Roberts was the first of more than fighting men with local links to die in uniform in the War on Terror.

He was shot and killed by al-Qaida forces after he fell from a helicopter in the Kharwar Mountains of Afghanistan... .

This box set features star and former York countian John Baer, top right. Background posts: East Yorker David Levin became exemplary elder, Actor John Baer among achievers in York High's Class of 1941 and Pearl survivor: 'We need to prevent attacks of that nature'.

The York County Heritage Trust will soon receive an unusual artifact - a box set of the early TV series "Terry & the Pirates."

John Baer, William Penn High School Class of 1941, starred in the series.

In addition to the local connection, the series played on a historical theme.

Here's what the jacket to the box set says: ...

Tommy Kono, Coach Tommy Kono at work. The location is unclear but those are York Barbells waiting to go airborne. Background posts: Olympian/lawyer Whitney Metzler comes home to York County, Who were most prominent 20th-century sports heroes in York and Adams counties? and York Barbell blog category.

Who was the greatest weightlifter in York's storied past?

Many believe it was three-time Olympian Tommy Kono.

And make that the greatest in America's past ... .

Jen German heads the list of all-time best Dallastown Area High School athletes. Where does she rank on list of greatest York County prep athletes? Background posts: Who is rightful owner of area boys' basketball scoring record?, Northeastern last York/Adams public school to field football team and 'When people are looking back into Pa. basketball history ... it's great'.

A current 22-week York Daily Record/Sunday News series story opines about Shannon Bortner Werner, Dallastown Area High School class of 1998: "She is arguably the best girls' volleyball player the area has ever seen." ...

The York Museum of Art is a key part of the Brenner Administration's renaissance plan for downtown York. Here, an architectural rendering places the spotlight on a sculpture by internationally known Dover native Jeff Koons. Background posts: York Art Museum touted as triple gateway, Jeff Koons' work raises question: But is it art? and Declaration of Independence signer James Smith tops York County's patriot list.

In 2002, a group proposed a production honoring the 225th anniversary of the adoption of the Articles of Confederation in York.

The working title?

"The Birth of a Nation."

Some on the "Nine Months in York Town" committee pointed out that the title was problematic in two ways. First, a patently racist film had taken that name in the first quarter of the 20th century.

Secondly, it is doubtful whether York County is the birthplace of the nation... .

A member of the Red Lion-Felton Band shows a Roland Seitz composition, part of the group's playlist, in 2006. Background posts: Parade Music Prince Roland Seitz: From Shrewsbury to Friday Night Lights, Spring Garden Band: 'It's like being in a room with history', Glen Rock Mill Inn: 'They are happy to see it open again'.

The small community museum is just inside the building housing the library in Glen Rock.

But an easily overlooked treasure stands outside as well... .

After 50 years of practicing law, Jane Alexander's longtime law office is filled memorabilia and 26-year occupant Jake 'the Jerk.' The bird is known to ask: 'May I help you?' Background posts: Who are York County's most influential citizens? - Part II, List growing of high state officials hailing from York County and Strange pairings could help raise funds in York.

York County's second female state legislator has decided to call it quits in Harrisburg.

Bev MacKereth, a four-term Republican legislator, is taking a position as the executive director of the York County Human Services Department.

Interestingly, in a legislative world of long terms, York County's first female state legislator also served a relatively short time... .

An Associated Press photographer captured Whitney Metzler of Dallastown during the women's 400 Individual Medley event at the 1996 U.S. Olympic Trials. Metzler went on to finish in eighth place at the Olympics. Metzler is now an attorney in York. (See photo below.) Background posts: Lineup full of stars with York County links, Olympic gold medalist Scott Strausbaugh another achiever with Dover links and Who were the most prominent York County athletes of the 20th century?.

York County has produced many star athletes, but not that many Olympians in recent years.

There were those decades that weightlifters from York Barbell were kings of that sport. About 40 lifters, coaches or trainers with ties to York Barbell went to the Olympics, and earned 11 gold medals.

And, according to the York Daily Record/Sunday News sports department, Hans Gerhard Boetzelen won a silver in 1932 in rowing (double sculls).

And Robert Sohl won a bronze in 1948 for the 200-meter breastsroke.

And Linda Myers picked up a fifth and seventh places in 1972 and 1976, respectively.

Recently, the county has produced two medalists.

Scott Strausbaugh picked up a gold in canoeing in the 1990s.

And the most recent participant, Whitney Metzler, finished eighth in swimming in 1996.

Now, Whitney Metzler is back in York... .

Scott Stevens, a relative newcomer to York, e-mailed about whether a historical monument marked the birthplace of George Robert Stibitz, widely called the father of modern computing.

The short answer is that no marker is in place anywhere in York County feting Stibitz. In fact, a quick check at the usual local sources brought scant information of Stibitz, a Dartmouth mathematician born in York on April 30, 1904.

But he is all over the Web... .

Loretta Claiborne long jumps in Special Olympics competition in York in 2007 - the competition which launched her achievements.

Someone recently nominated Loretta Claiborne as one of York County's top 25 most influential people, in a sampling conducted by the York Sunday News.

The York Sunday News named Claiborne in the top 10 sports achievers in 20th-century York County.

Though only in her 50s, she already has her name on the side of a building on South George Street in York.

But those are just local accolades... .

This image, used as a basis for a large-scale panel in the York County Heritage Trust's Murals of York series, shows Dr. George Holtzapple deploying oxygen to treat a Loganville pneumonia patient. This image appeared in York Hospital's history 'That Sovereign Knowledge.' Tradition has it that this pioneering treatment took place in the house's basement. Background posts: Looking for a local history research project? and Of surgical saws, bloodletting and Brown's in Loganville: 'I didn't know a peach tree from an apple tree, but we learned quickly.'

Lois Stoner, a nurse in York, e-mailed recently wondering why the Loganville house where Dr. George Holtzapple saved young pneumonia sufferer Frederick Gable's life is not marked with a historical monument.

She raises a good point ... .

The York Sunday New rated Bob Hoffman, founder of York Barbell, at the top of the top 10 York and Adams counties sports figures in the 20th century. Background posts: Lineup full of stars with York County links, Author muscles way into York's body building world and Richard Nixon's visit to his namesake park sparks memories.

The York Daily Record/Sunday News publication of the 25 most influential people in York County sparked much community discussion.

The same was true in 2000 when the York Sunday News issued its list of the 20th-century's top 10 sports people.

Bob Hoffman headed the list on the strength of his role as five-time Olympic weightlifting coach and his founding of York Barbell.

His selection - and others in the top 10 - brought accord and also disagreement... .

Davy Crockett and other luminaries visited Charles Barnitz's Springdale Mansion after its opening in 1828. Crockett did not impress certain members of the Barnitz household. Background posts: Exploring ornate Springdale Mansion, Imagine: 70-foot boat navigated York County's Codorus Creek and Who were York County's most influential citizens, Part I.

Maureen Beattie of Longmeadow, Mass., found an old letter - and part of a York County legend - at a garage sale.

She e-mailed with these details:

It is addressed to Mary M. Barnitz, c/o Herman Cope Esq., Cincinnatti, Ohio. Handwritten above the addressee is 'free C.A. Barnitz". The body of the letter is in tatters, but there is one whole area that says: ...

Fifty-one years ago, Daisy Myers and her family were victims of racial harassment after they moved into a new home in Levittown, Pa. This incident was included in a recent New York Times Magazine article. This is the cover of her autobiography telling about her Levittown experience, available at www.yorkheritage.org. Background posts: Daisy Myers: Rosa Parks of the North, A short test of your York, Pa., black history knowledge and Doris Kearns Goodwin gives tips to analyze presidential hopefuls.

Daisy Myers has been a York County resident going on 50 years. She has been in high-profile positions as a York City Schools administrator and assistant to Congressman Bill Goodling.

But many York countians aren't aware that she and her family made national news for holding out against racial harassment after moving into their dream home in the planned community of Levittown in Bucks County in 1957.

From time to time, their courage is remembered... .

Architect Murphy & Dittenhafer's rendering of what the York (Pa.) Museum of Art (YOMA) could look like if the idea put forth by the Brenner administration comes to fruition. (See photo of site below.) Background posts: Temporary river art collection may find permanent home along Susquehanna, Resources for York/Adams history junkies increasingly posted on Web and To those seeking to donate York County artifacts to preserve and present history.

The proposed York Museum of Art has intriguing hooks.

Organizers are:

Two of York County's most influential leaders shake hands at York's Susquehanna Commerce Center's opening in 2005. Susquehanna Pfaltzgraff President Louis J. Appell Jr. and York Mayor John Brenner celebrate the occasion. Background posts: Influential citizens, Part I, Who is Bob Kinsley? and First York City Latino councilman temporarily state's top appointed Dem.

York Daily Record/Sunday News readers came through with dozens of recommendations for the most influential people of York County.

The newspaper staff and editorial board added some of their own and came up with a list that is certain to draw scrutiny.

We pondered particularly what to do with Jim Grove, the far-right activist who is effective in the courts in protecting First Amendment rights, even if his abrasive techniques in practicing free speech impair his messages more than promote them. You'll see how we handled his nomination below... .

William C. Goodridge, a former slave who became a respected York businessman, was an influential 19th-century figure in York County. He is on a short list of top newsmakers in York County in the past 250 years. Background posts: List of luminaries from Dover lengthens, How come so few in York know about S. Morgan Smith?, Samuel Small tops community contributor list.

On Sunday, we'll post a sampling of 25 of York County's most influential residents. Actually, there are 26.

The suggestions came from members of the public, York Daily Record/Sunday New staff and the newspaper's editorial board.

As a warm up, we post here a list from "Never to be Forgotten" of a group of 30 influential residents from York County's past... .

The York Daily Record/Sunday News has produced several special Web and print publications, including a York County Women's History section. (Allow extra time for it to load.) See below for links to other projects. Background posts: A short test of your women's history knowledge, A short test of your black history knowledge and 20 questions and answers to prove your York County smarts, Part III.

Check out some of these new Web sites from the York Daily Record/Sunday News and inyork.com guaranteed to appeal to history and news junkies:

Twenty members of YorkArts visited visit the studio of Dover native and internationally known artist Jeff Koons in early 2007. Koons, sometimes called the "Bad Boy of Art," center, lead the group on a two-hour tour. Background posts: Jeff Koons' sculpture brings record for a living artist's work and Jeff Koons, Part II and Othmar Carli: 'Restoration is much better than selling shoes to make a living'.

One piece of Jeff Koons' art brought more than $23 million at auction.

But the Dover native's New York studio produces scores of art pieces, big and small.

Koons is one of the most prominent achievers with York County roots playing on the international stage today... .

Renowned artisan Othmar Carli, a York, Pa. resident, talks with a student about holiday cards she is seeking to design in this 2005 photo. Background posts: Women's Club of York, Pa.: 'No one knew it really looked like this' , York Safe restoration 'once in lifetime' project> and Artist Jeff Koons came back to York for a show .

Austrian-born Othmar Carli is an internationally known artist, art restorer, teacher and sculptor.

And this Renaissance man calls York home... .

Proprietor Charles H. Seiker, right hand in his pocket, stands in the doorway of Young and Busser's Cigar Store, Continental Square, circa 1920. That's store mascot Punch on the ledge. This photo, with accompanying column on the popularity of the cigar store, appears in Jim Hubley's "Off the Record." The funeral for the longtime York (Pa.) Daily Record/ Sunday News columnist will be Sunday at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in York Township. Visitation will be from 2 to 3:30 p.m. with the service afterward. Background posts: YDR columnist James A. Hubley: 'What I prefer is a simple, Jim', Kaltreider Library draws name from noted Red Lion cigarmaker and 'I still have my memories ... of the bustling downtown York business district'

Columnist Jim Hubley understood York County.

He knew, for example, that tobacco, cigarmaking and smoking are part of its culture. And he wrote about it.

He wrote in a 1989 column about Continental Square's Young and Busser's Cigar Store as a coming together place for York's men in the 1920s... .

Jim Hubley's 1994 "Off the Record, York County Life Through a Newsman's Eyes" captures the longtime York (Pa.) Daily Record columnist's direct style. Hubley died Tuesday at the age of 93. The out-of-print book is available via the York County Library System, http://www.yorklibraries.org/. Background posts with Jim Hubley references or columns: I-83 lined out Melvin's swan song, 'Good grief, how long has that pool been here?', Baseball's Methuselah played for York, Pa.'s White Roses.

Since learning last week that York Daily Record columnist Jim Hubley was near death, I've been thinking about how to remember the man in a few words who had written so many in his 68-year career.

Then I remembered the introduction of his book "Off the Record" that I always felt typified his direct writing style, which typified this direct man.

So, I'll let Jim Hubley describe Jim Hubley:

Voni B. Grimes plays his trademark harmonica at a York Revolution game in the team's inaugural season in 2007. Background posts: Richard Nixon's visit to his namesake park sparks memories, At the blind center: 'The bees have been enjoying this garden, too.' and Articles of Confederation don't get no respect.

Borrowing from Time magazine, the York Daily Record/Sunday is compiling a list of York County's most influential people.

The names of philanthropic industrialists and businessmen no doubt will make the list.

Borrowing from Malcolm Gladwell's "The Tipping Point," I put forth in my Sunday column the names of two 'connectors' - Luther B. Sowers and Voni B. Grimes - for that list... .

The noted artist Othmar Carli restored this fire-damaged painting in the Women's Club of York. The historic building will be featured in an upcoming issue of Spaces magazine, published by the York Daily Record/Sunday News. York County, Pa., civic, service groups fighting for lives, A short test of your York County women's history knowledge, York's Wonder Women: The stories of four more movers and shakers.

The last York Town Square visit to the Women's Club of York building told about its owners' plans to renovate the fire-damaged structure.

The owners have nicely tackled some of the main public areas, as the following story from "Spaces" indicates:

Georgjean Fells, known in her performing days with the Quintones as Jeannie Crist, died recently. Her death comes two years after fellow York, Pa., group member, Phyllis A. Carr, passed away. Background posts: The Oaks in York: 'I often look up there ... and think about how nice it was', York Soul group Magnificent Men come to age on big screen and York's Sovereign Stadium will be site of The Oaks music reunion.

Doo-Woppers The Quintones, from William Penn High School and York, Pa., drew national attention in the late 1950s with their "Down the Aisle of Love."

Their hit reached No. 18 on Billboard and sold almost a million copies.

They played on American Bandstand.

They performed at the Apollo Theater.

Their hit became a well-known song at weddings... .

Joe Kindig III, noted York, Pa., antique dealer, will receive the 2008 award of merit from the Antiques Association of American on April 12 in Philadelphia. He was featured with multiple photos and a long story in the April 4 edition of "Antiques and The Arts Weekly." Background posts: Bottle & jug enthusiasts must dig for their York County gold, Springetts collector attracts 'Antiques Roadshow's' Kenos and Flag expert: 'I was interested in my nation's heritage'.

Ask anyone in York County's historical community about Joe Kindig III, and they speak in respectful tones about his vast knowledge of antiquing and history surrounding his artifacts.

A story in "Antiques and the Arts Weekly," tells how the Kindig family got its start in the antique world:

Roland F. Seitz (1867-1946) was a York County, Pa., native and composer of marches who is remembered today. One of the pieces he wrote and arranged, 'Grandioso March,' appears on the 'Friday Night Lights' soundtrack. Background posts: Long Level and Pleasureville fielded bands?, York County (Pa.) community bands played on and The night the furnace 'blew'.

Roland F. Seitz is internationally known as the "Parade Music Prince".

His "Grandioso," "Salutation" and "Brooke's Chicago Marine Band" are well-known pieces.

He's an achiever may be better known nationally than in his native York County, where he grew up on a Shrewsbury Township farm.

That said, local community bands continue to play his pieces... .

Dallastown artist Lorann Jacobs' newest sculpture in York shows Brooks Robinson signing autographs on the plaza outside York, Pa.'s, Sovereign Bank Stadium. York is ahead of Baltimore in honoring Brooks. Background posts: Sculptor molds York, Pa.'s past for posterity, Old York, Pa., lefty remembers young Brooks Robinson, and York County sports museum a miniature Cooperstown.

About 8,000 fans have walked across Brooks Robinson Plaza and passed the statue of the O's legend on their way to the two York Revs games this season.

The statue, sculpted by the prolific Lorann Jacobs, reminds fans that Brooks started his professional career in York.

But no such reminder stands in Baltimore, where Brooks spent his entire major league career... .

This is one of two dormers that remained in place after renovation of the old Dempwolf-designed York County Courthouse into a York County administrative center. The dormer is an example of the design touches the York, Pa.-based Dempwolf family of architects gave to their buildings. Background posts: Downtown thrived in post-World War II York, Pa., What was famed architect John Dempwolf's own house like and How to accurately restore a historic home.

Some students in a recent session of my OLLI class at Penn State York were unfamiliar with the Dempwolf brothers and their family successors who designed so many significant buildings in York.

The Dempwolfs' work was so pervasive around York that it's easy to overlook it in plain sight.

J.A. and Reinhardt Dempwolf headed the Victorian-era firm whose shaping of York's skyline lasted well into the 20th century.

The following story, taken from York County's 250th anniversary publication "Builders and Heroes," tells more about the Dempwolfs:

Red Lion's Butch Wynegar, seen here with Brooks Robinson, played for the American League in the All-Star Game on July 13, 1976. At 20 years, 121 days, Wynegar earned was the youngest player to play in an All-Star Game. Wynegar's home county's York Revolution play in their home opener at Sovereign Bank Stadium in York, Pa., today. Robinson began his professional career with the York White Roses, predecessor of the Revs. Background posts: Butch Wynegar ranks bright among York's sports stars, Season 2 of York's campaign to come back - Iconic photos 21-23 and Batter up, pass the hot dog: York relishes the Revolution

The York Revolution opens its second season at Sovereign Bank Stadium today with its home opener against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs.

A special section, "Second helping," setting up the season appeared in the York Daily Record today.

It contains a thorough timeline of baseball in York since 1884, put together by baseball writer Jim Seip. Study this lineup, and you'll be better versed on what baseball has meant to York County over the years:

As the military hit the beaches of Normandy in northwestern France on June 6, 1944, many York/Adams residents supported those in uniform by going to houses of worship. The services were brief to allow workers to return to their jobs, where the demands of immense war contracts awaited them. Here, worshippers enter Union Evangelical Lutheran Church on York, Pa.'s West Market Street. (This image comes from York Corporation's "Shop News.) Background posts: Nazis murdered downed airman from York County, Part IIII, Book gives positive view of forgotten Gen. Jacob Devers and York/Adams residents contributed to 'The War'.

Continuing in this series of iconic photographs from York County's past... .

Dan Kurzman wrote a historical fiction book on the Four Chaplains, which included Rabbi Alexander Goode of York, Pa., lower left. Now, a movie on their heroics is in the pipeline. Meanwhile in York, the 16th Annual Four Chaplains Prayer Breakfast is set for 7 a.m., May 14. At that breakfast, community volunteer Dr. Luther B. Sowers will be presented with the Chapel of the Four Chaplains Legion of Honor membership. For information, call 854-9504. Background posts: York's contribution to 'The Four Chaplains' still gains attention, Often forgotten: Achievements of people named on building facades and York County historical war deaths top 1,000.

Rabbi Alexander D. Goode and the other three chaplains who went down with their ship in World War II has been memorialized in stained glass windows, books, newspaper articles and on the side of a York, Pa., school.

Now, www.variety.com is reporting that Hollywood is considering turning a screenplay on the chaplains, who went down with the Dorchester in the North Atlantic in 1943, into a feature film, "Lifeboat 13." ...

This Four Chaplains stamp, issued in 1948, was designed by Louis Schwimmer. The Army Chaplain Center and School, according to the Chapel of the Four Chaplains site, quoted Schwimmer's son as saying that "this may be the first stamp commemorating a Jew. It is undoubtedly, the first US postage stamp designed by a Jew that commemorates a Jew." But the stamp has significance in yet another way, according to a recent bestseller. Rabbi Alexander D. Goode of York, Pa., one of the chaplains, is pictured at right. Background posts: 'Chaplains: The Calm in the Chaos', Often forgotten: Achievements of people named on building facades and And now starring actor ... Jakie Devers?.

A York County link popped up in Newsweek editor Jon Meacham's bestselling book "American Gospel."

Indirectly, but it was there... .

Bob Kinsley takes a weekly outing in this photograph from 1998. Even then, Kinsley was in the middle of plans to build a new visitor's center at Gettysburg (Pa.) National Park. Q&A on new Gettysburg visitor center, old Electric Map, Thousands discover formerly unheralded Howard Tunnel and Glatfelter, Farquhar, Shipley: Insights from local greats.

Several years ago, prominent York businessman John Schmidt told me at least one reason for builder Bob Kinsley's success.

"He just gets up a little earlier than the rest of us," Schmidt said.

That goes a bit in providing insight to the man behind the question:

Who is Bob Kinsley, the "private" side of the private-public venture that has constructed the new Gettysburg Visitors Center and Museum? ... .

Northern troops drilled at the York (Pa.) Fairgrounds early in the Civil War. And Confederates camped there when they occupied York in 1863. But the current fairgrounds in the West York area was just a field then. The Civil War-era York Expo Center will be the topic of a mystery talk on Saturday. Background posts: Gettysburg 'Human Interest Stories' scores sequel and Rebels, Yanks to again journey along York's West Market Street.

The whereabouts of the York Fairgrounds will be one of my topics in a talk on Saturday, April 5, at the York Emporium's A Day of Mystery.

I'll cover 10 mysteries or questions rising from York County's involvement in the Civil War in a slideshow starting at 12:30 p.m.

Jim Lewin, the owner, lists me as a pundit, writer and historian. I had to look up what a pundit is, and it sounds OK... .

William J. Fisher, seated, A.B. Farquhar Co. president, and his son, Edward H. Fisher, sold the York, Pa., company to Oliver Corporation in 1951. The farm equipment manufacturer started in 1856 and was one of the prime movers behind the York Plan. Background posts: Who will lead the York area in the future?, Carnegie to Farquhar: '... I am ready to go out and enjoy myself' and Pro/Con: Should York's leaders have surrendered to the rebels?

Continuing the series of telling York County, Pa.'s, history through images:

This mural of 19th-century York, Pa., businessman William C. Goodridge greets motorists and pedestrians as they head east on West Market Street. Among other businesses, it depicts Goodridge's rail venture, believed to have been deployed as part of another transportation business - the Underground Railroad. Background posts: Freed slaves often faced return to bondage, Amanda Berry Smith: 'God's image carved in ebony' and A short test of your black history knowledge, II.

This image of William C. Goodridge, freedman and businessman, is another in the York Town Square series on important photos that tell York County's story... .

In summer 1776, James Smith signed both the Declaration of Independence and the Pennsylvania Constitution. The York, Pa., lawyer also served in the Continental Congress during that body's visit to York County after British troops forced members from Philadelphia. Background posts: 400 years ago, John Smith explored Chesapeake Bay - 1 of 20 iconic images, Where was Thomas Jefferson when Congress met in York?, and Who will lead York in the future?

This painting of James Smith is another in a series of iconic images of York County, Pa. Smith lived and died in York County, joining New York's Philip Livingston as the two signers of the Declaration buried in York County soil... .

Scott Weikert, a William Penn High School grad, has been recommended to the rank of rear admiral. 'The camaraderie, the esprit de corps, just the level of commitment of the people I serve with - I've never found that in the private sector,' Weikert said. 'That's probably a reflection of the fact that we depend on each other so much in executing our jobs.' Background posts: York has produced its share of high-ranking naval officers and Book gives positive view about forgotten general Jake Devers.

York County has produced a high-ranking officer at Gitmo, Brad LeVault and the captain on the new carrier U.S.S. Bush, Chip Miller.

Now comes news from the Navy that a York son, Scott Weikert, is awaiting promotion to the rank of rear admiral... .

Here's a hint to answer part of York County Smarts quiz, Part III: This York County native starred with Brad Pitt in "A River Runs Through It," a 1992 film about two brothers who grow up in Montana. Background posts: Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here, Prominent actor Craig Sheffer hails from overlooked Windsor Park,
That's Windsor Park, not Windsor ..., and York City's Eberts Lane actually winsome country road.

OK, another part of a York County Smarts quiz (see Part II) taken from a 1990s orientation exercise used by the York Daily Record to bring new employees up to speed.

See how you do:

Eighty years after his death, industrial leader A.B. Farquhar's business prowess is still remembered. The York park that bears his name attests to his community involvement. Now, a national author has remembered him too, including an exchange between Farquhar and Andrew Carnegie. Background posts: Reader seeks Boys Club photo, York: America's First Capital of Golf? and Pastors denounce Sunday newspaper.

A e-mailer pointed out an exchange in David Nasaw's biography "Andrew Carnegie," in which the Gilded Age industrial giant gave York agricultural implement factory owner A.B. Farquhar his comeuppance.

Farquhar mentioned to Carnegie that he was always sure to be in the office by 'seven in the morning.'

"You must be a lazy man," Carnegie replied, "if it takes you ten hours to do a day's work." ....

Tommy Kono was America's best weight lifter in the 1950s. He won eight world titles and went undefeated from 1952-59. Kono lifted for York Barbell, the answer to a quiz question below.
Background posts: 20 questions and answers to prove your York County smarts, Part I, A short test of your women's history knowledge , A short test of your York black history knowledge, Part I, Black history quiz, Part II.

The York Daily Record used this quiz in the mid-1990s to orient new employees. The questions and answers, some tongue in check and often tied into then-recent news stories, will continue to pique interest.

Some may seem easy to veteran York Town Square readers. Consider this a review. Others will seem arcane.

See how you do:

Abe Amoros, president of the York City Little League Board of Directors, is seen during groundbreaking ceremonies in 2005 for two regulation Little League fields at York's Allen Park. Amoros recently assumed temporary executive director duties for the state Democratic Party. Background posts: Delma Rivera, 'Legacies,' Part II, York Spanish Council organized 33 years ago and Civil rights heroes stand out at Bradley exhibit.

Gov. Ed Rendell made York resident Abe Amoros an offer he could not refuse.

Would Amoros temporarily take over for the state Democratic Party's regular executive director, who is on leave to head Hillary Clinton's campaign in Pennsylvania?

Amoros' affirmative answer propelled him to the water's edge facing the political storm that is starting to wash across Pennsylvania as Clinton and Barack Obama vie for Dem votes... .

Kathryn L. Fourhman's bio lists her as Pennsylvania's first female coroner. And she's known locally as author of a book about her experiences as a coroner: "Death is a Funny Thing." She is one of 50 women feted in 'Legacies,' the 1984 American Association of University Women. Background posts: A short test of your women's history knowledge and Mildred and Russell Chapman, 'Black History Profiles,' Part I.

The York Daily Record/Sunday News continues to work its way through the 50 women celebrated in AAUW's "Legacies: Remembrances of York County Women."

The newspaper updated bios of Sister Gilmary Simmons, Nellie Leber Longsworth, Kathryn L. Fourhman and Mildred K. Binder.

All four achievers were alive at the time "Legacies" was published in 1984, and their stories had expanded with their many activities... .

Anna Dill Gamble, one of York County's most accomplished 20th-century women, is the topic of a question in a women's history quiz put forth by the York Daily Record/Sunday News. Read on to learn more about her. Background posts: OLLI's theme song: 'Don't stop thinking about learning' and York County Civil War hero grandmom of Gore Vidal.

Test your history knowledge on this quiz about women who achieved on the local and national level (answers below, too):

Dallastown High grad Paul Snyder, right, served 50 years as a player, scout and exec in pro ball. He recently retired from the sport. Background posts: Susquehannock grads make national sports news and Lineup full of sports stars with York County links.

Former Green Bay Packer GM Ron Wolf comes from New Freedom.

Pittsburgh Steeler assistant coach Bruce Arians is from York.

Hanover's Pat Flaharty is the New York Giants' offensive line coach.

Carmen Fusco, former assistant general manager and scout for the New York Mets, operates a baseball academy in Fairview Township.

York County has contributed its fair share of residents to professional sports management. The Atlanta Braves Paul Snyder is perhaps at the top of the pack... .

As state revenue secretary, Tom Wolf was York County's highest-ranking state official in recent years. Wolf resigned his post on Nov. 12, 2008, and was replaced by fellow York countian Steve Stetler. Background posts: List growing of high state officials hailing from York County, Follow the leader ... George Leader and Wolf joins long list of Yorkers gaining political posts.

Tom Wolf is a respected York County business leader and the most prominent member of the family that long ago loaned its name to Mount Wolf.

He observed his first year as Gov. Ed Rendell's state revenue secretary in February.

The York Daily Record/Sunday News recently interviewed the 59-year-old Wolf on topics that ranged from an appearance on the evening lottery broadcast to reports that he will make a bid for Pennsylvania governor.

That interview follows:

York native Dominick Argento won a Pulitzer Prize for his musical compositions. He also has written a book of his memoirs.Dominick Argento at top of York A & E hall of fame and John Luther Long: Miss Saigon's York County connection.

York native Dominick Argento thinks the piece he wrote for the anniversary of the National Cathedral in Washington his greatest work.

And that's saying something for a composer who has won the Pulitzer Prize.

The world-renowned composer's most recent work will be performed for the first time at 4 p.m. Sunday.

A York Daily Record story said the choral work, "Evensong: Of Love and Angels," was inspired by the memory of his wife, Carolyn Bailey Argento, who died two years ago. They met at the Peabody Institute in Baltimore... .

Gen. Jacob Loucks Devers, left, talks with Lt. Donald E. MacNutt, 85th Engineers, as light and heavy vehicles from the 10th Armored Division cross the Rhine River on April 1, 1945. The engineers installed this pontoon bridge across the Rhine at Worms, Germany, in nine hours, considered a major feat. The York County Heritage Trust plans a visit to Devers burial site in Arlington National Cemetery in April. Background posts: York native Jacob L. Devers' name still in service at Fort Knox, Ky. and U.S. Army Field Band: Live at Farquhar Park.

For example, an exhibit at the trust's Agriculture and Industrial Museum interprets life in the military in World War II. A nearby York Plan exhibit informs visitors about how York County factories got behind the military.

As part of this Defending Amerca's Freedom Project, the trust is sponsoring a motor coach trip to Washington, D.C., on April 10... .

We thought we had published the perfect Bury's burger recipe after Jean Fix of York flagged its publication in the York Sunday News in 2000.

As it turns out, our reported recipe, Reader reveals Bury's secret recipe, may have been incomplete. Delicious, but not authentic. And the source is the maker of the iconic York County burger himself, Joe Bury.

Sort of... .

Bob Yost, left, seen with Bill Schintz were longtime members of the Breakfast Club at the Yorktowne Hotel grills, operating under various names. Yost died this week, and Schintz assessed his contributions this way: "Bob Yost put more people in homes than anyone in York County history. He has been the king of real estate in York County for at least the last 30 years... ." (To see Yost's office earlier in his career, see photograph below.) Background posts: Who will lead York County in the future? and Glatfelter, Morgan Smith head industrial legacy list.

This leader in the real estate community leaves behind many accomplishments, including a story (see below) about his pluck earlier in life... .

William Penn High School graduate Hal Colston and his program "Neighbhorkeepers" is gaining a national profile as an effective poverty-fighting program. "People" magazine recently featured his work. Background posts: Leslie Lawson, Black History Profiles, Part III, Images capture hope of racial harmony and York Town Square's black history category.

The York riots of 1968-69 produced deep community wounds.

But for Hal Colston, they added to his understanding of poverty and its impact... .

Ronnie Meyers presents 102-year-old Daniel Wilt with a Mount Wolf Wolves baseball cap on behalf of the team at Rock Brenner Field several years ago. The ballfield is a longtime gathering spot for Mount Wolf residents. Background posts: Ten years ago, Emigsville's mighty oak fell and York's Wolf Organization builds from deep foundation.

Here's a question that opponents to merging some of York County's 72 townships and boroughs haven't answered.

If boroughs are such a good idea, why isn't there a movement to create more?

Jacobus was the last borough in York County to form. And that was in 1929... .

Gerald "Jerry" Karl was a York countian who played on the national stage - or rather, drove on national tracks. Karl, who raced at the Indianapolis 500 six times, died recently from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Background posts: For scores of post on other celebrities with York County links, see http://www.yorktownsquare.com/york-celebrities/. To see achievers in sports, see http://www.yorktownsquare.com/york-sports/.

Pedestrian A.B. Farquhar survived an accident involving a vehicle, but injuries sustained hastened the agricultural equipment manufacturer's death.

As I've written before, it was the saddest irony that the life of a captain of industry - a man who harnessed machinery to make machinery to harness the earth - was shortened by a machine.

And David E. Small, a noted York railroad car manufacturer in the 1800s, lost an arm after it became entangled in machinery.

Gerald "Jerry" Karl was similarly a York countian of national stature - a driver at a half dozen Indy 500s... .

During the winter, southpaw Triple A pitcher Robert Rohrbaugh trains in Littlestown. Here, he lifts weights at the Littlestown YMCA. 'He's knocking on the door of the big leagues,' said Greg Hunter, the Mariners' director of player personnel. 'He's adjusted to every level he's been at.' Background posts: York County sports a miniature Cooperstown and Baseball's Methuselah played for White Roses.

Several years ago, Hanover-area left-hander Mark Phillips scored a big contract with the San Diego Padres. But his career so far has gone nowhere, falling far short of the majors. Last summer, Phillips labored in the Central League before landing a pitching slot in the Atlantic League.

But now comes another Hanover-area southpaw - Robert Rohrbaugh - one of the Seattle Mariners' top minor league prospects... .

This photo shows the York County-based country-and-western group the 101 Ranch Boys in 1956 or 1957. The boys are identified: upper left, Harold Dunn; upper center, Bob Weston; upper right, Andy Reynolds; lower left, George Rowe; lower center, Steve Goba; and lower right, Willy Landis. Goba provided this photo. Background posts: Don't forget Del McCoury on list of York celebs, 101 Ranch Boys hooked musician and Shorty Fincher, Elvis, Three Stooges shared stage.

There's something about the 101 Ranch Boys band that spawns memories.

Steve Goba was one of the boys for a short time in the 1950s.

He saw the York Town Square post Story on famed 101 Ranch Boys spawns memories and contributed information via a comment on the story.

He caught readers up on group members from the 1950s: ... .

In this 2004 photo, George Leader hands an ornamental chicken to Paul Masenheimer, who painted his nursing home - Providence Place - in York County's Dover Township. Leader bought the chicken to place outside the nursing home and to serve as a reminder of the link between chickens and the Leader family. His father was a renowned chicken breeder, and Leader began his career running a chicken hatchery. Background posts: Author muscles way into York's weightlifting, bodybuilding world and Gov. George Leader cleared dam plan.

York County Register of Wills Bradley C. Jacobs, a Dover-area native, pointed to several achievers to add to those that I pointed out in my column, Dover home to many achievers.

He particularly pointed to George Leader, the only Pennsylvania governor to come from York County. Leader grew up in York Township - Leader Heights. But after serving in World War II, Leader operated a chicken hatchery in Dover Township. That was his day job as he launched a political career... .

Hanover native and Delone Catholic grad Pat Flaherty, right, is seen with his twin brother, Mike, center, before a Giants-Bears game in 2007. Pat Flaherty, offensive line coach for the New York Giants, received kudos for his line's play in Sunday's Super Bowl. Harry Hiestand, the Flahertys' brother-in-law and offensive line coach for the Chicago Bears, is at left. Background posts: Susquehannock grads make national sports news, Lineup full of stars with York County links and Wiki profiles eight with national status bearing Hanover roots.

Sunday's Super Bowl announcers were lavish in their praise of the New York Giants' offensive line.

They used the normal cliches: 'kept Eli Manning upright," "not big names," and "underrated."

At one point, they named the offensive line coach: Pat Flaherty... .

Katharine Beecher Candies has moved its decades-old manufacturing operations from Manchester to Cumberland County. The owner and namesake was one of the top businesswomen in York County in the 20th century, and her accomplishments will be part of an upcoming course of county history. Background posts: Katharine Beecher: 'Legacies,' Part I and York author's works adapted to the big screen: 'Legacies,' Part Last.

Question 1: This York countian's sculpture brought $23.6 million at auction in New York.

Question 2: This woman was so sweet her candy circulated to all parts of the world.

Question 3: This York countian met a friend 3 different times on 3 different beaches in the South Pacific in World War II. Who was the York countian and who was the friend?

I used these three questions (answers below) to introduce a course I will be teaching on famous people from York County ... .

The Rev. Leslie Lawson, friend of Dr. Martin Luther King, retired after 23 years of service at York's Small Memorial AME Zion Church in 1992. Background posts: Mildred and Russell Chapman, Part I, Roy Borom, Part II, Gladys Rawlins, Part III.

The Rev. Leslie Lawson was jailed with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1962.

When reaching York in 1969, he immediately acted as a peacemaker during the race riots that summer.

"He invested his talents in the marketplace of human needs," a bishop said in eulogizing Lawson at the pastor's funeral in 1998... .

Gladys Rawlins demonstrates the Green Circle Program. It is used in some York County schools. She is buried in Lebanon Cemetery in North York. Background posts: Mildred and Russell Chapman, Part I and Roy Borom, Part II

Gladys Rawlins is internationally known as the founder of Green Circle, the educational program that promotes racial understanding.

But it's not as widely known that she stayed in York County for extensive periods and is buried here... .

Dover native and internationally known artist Jeff Koons presented a lecture of his work at York College in 2002. That talk accompanied a display of some of his famed work. Background posts: Jeff Koons' sculpture brings record for a living artist's work and Dover's/Packers' John Kuhn: 'He is able to grasp things very quickly'.

Some celebs with York County roots leave and never return to perform or display the fruits of their talents in their hometown.

So, it's refreshing to see Sam Freed and David Masenheimer agreeing to perform here as part of the York Little Theatre and York Symphony Orchestra's rendition of Stephen Sondheim's "Follies" on March 8.

Dover's Jeff Koons came back, too... .

A plaque now tells the story of Marine Sgt. Pal, cannonized in this statue on West King Street near the rail trail in York. Background posts: Marine and his dog meet after 60 years and Rail trail ribbons criss crossing York County.

A plaque installed last year near the statue of Pal, a member of World War II's Dogs for Defense, answers a key question: Did the local German shepherd survive the war?

Katharine Haviland-Taylor wrote more than 20 books of light fiction, and actors such as Marion Davies, Lionel Barrymore and May Robson performed her work. She was one of 50 women achievers in York County honored by AAUW in 1984. (See complete list of other achievers below). Histories attempt to fill blanks in women's, black history and York County Civil War hero grandmom of Gore Vidal.

For the past 5 years, the Daily Record/Sunday News has been updating the bios of women profiled in AAUW's "Legacies: Remembrances of York County Women."

We're at it again this year, choosing a handful of the 50 women on the roster of the 1984 booklet and making their bios current and available to the public.

So far, we've published five of their bios here, in addition to today's look at Katharine Haviland-Taylor: ...

The York Little Theatre and York Symphony Orchestra trace their roots to the Depression era. Here, Charles Budesheim's Symphonic Orchestra plays at the Valencia in 1931. According to the York Symphony Orchestra's "75 Years" book, many members went on to play in the York Symphony. Background posts: Many national stars first performed on YLT's stage, Musicians hawked tickets for first YSO concert and Stand-in stole the show in YLT's "Inherit the Wind." .

A joint York Little Theatre/York Symphony Orchestra production of Stephen Sondheim's "Follies" brings together several historical connections.

In an e-mail, YLT's Bob Hildebrand ticked off several historical links to the March 8 performance at Penn State York's Pullo Family Performing Arts Center:

Paul Schenck, right, takes on a protester on this July 10, 1992, Life cover. The nationally known York County resident heads the National Pro-Life Action Center (NPLAC), an advocacy group in Washington, D.C. Background post: York County 1st Amendment case list grows.

Since 2005, York County has been the home of well-known pro-life advocate Paul Schenck.

Schenck moved his family from Washington, D.C., to less congested, less expensive Manchester Township.

He now lives in a county in which the primary pro-life organization, Human Life Services, has its headquarters in a former abortion clinic... .

Founder A.B. Farquhar (in portrait) appears to be overseeing the sale of his 95-year-old company in 1951. William J. Fisher, seated, Farquhar president, and his son, Edward H. Fisher, sold the company to Oliver Corporation. Farquhar executives cited the difficulty of independent medium-sized companies trying to do business through depressions, wars and war threats. Other York County companies also started selling to large, out-of-town interests in those years. Interestingly, the trend today is not only to sell to larger, out-of-town companies but then some of that work is moved not only out of town but out of the country. Background posts: York County agrarianism vs. industrialization, Part I and York's western gate: One image says so much.

Around York, community service organizations are concerned about where leadership - and funding - will come from after a group of aging philanthropists who have made things happen for years pass on.

In a York Sunday News column, I explored options and even named names, taking a long historical detour along the way... .

Dave Bupp, right, and Buddy King, members of the homegrown soul band The Magnificent Men, are shown at their induction into the William Penn High School Hall of Fame in 2006. Bupp graduated in 1960, and King, in 1965. A trailer for a documentary on the group can be viewed below. Background posts: Memories about 'The Oaks' pile up and Del-Chords continue to jar memories.

Last post, we focused on the fact that anything about one-room schools causes local folks to want to know more.

An equally fascinating topic - perhaps for a different generation - are the lives and times of the York rock group The Magnicent Men... .

Wikipedia lists several luminaries hailed from Hanover, including Academy Award-winning costume designer Ann Roth. Background posts: Actor John Baer among achievers in York High's Class of 1941 and And now starring actor ... Jakie Devers?

About 90 people with links to York have gained a national profile as listed on Wikipedia, the Web's free encyclopedia, number about 90.

A similar search for those in the national spotlight from Hanover comes in at eight.

But many luminaries are missing... .

One way to learn about York native Rear Admiral Samuel Rhoads Franklin is to read a biography of his brother, William Buell Franklin. Mark Snell's authoritative "From First to Last," brings in Samuel at several points. Background posts: York native to captain new carrier USS Bush and F-14 TomCat navigator's name, aircraft in museum and York County holds three links to the ill-fated Titanic.

June Lloyd pointed out in a recent York Sunday News column that land-locked York County has contributed several high-ranking naval officers in its history.

She profiles the previously unrecognized Rear Admiral Richard Morgan Watt Sr. (see below) and mentions Rear Admiral Samuel Rhoads Franklin... .

Chantel Tremitiere of the Indiana Fever moves the ball upcourt against the Sacramento Monarchs in 2000. She is listed among 90 people from York cited for their achievements on Wikipedia, the free, self-selecting, or public-selecting Web encyclopedia that readers update. Post on other York achievers: Sol and Brooks lead long York County sports parade and Dominick Argento at top of York A & E hall of fame.

Some may remember my discovery outlined in a post some months ago that star BMX rider Kevin Jones (Dorkin' in York box set features Kevin Jones) has York roots.

I discovered that on Wikipedia under the category - people from York.

I check that occasionally and either see someone newly posted or a national figure I missed before... .

Doris Kearns Goodwin was in York in November about her book, 'Team of Rivals, The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln.' At the end of her speech, she gave tips to assess presidential candidates. Background posts: Goodwin cites York countian's story to tell about Gettysburg Address, Follow the leader... George Leader and Presidents and presidential candidates have visited York for decades .

Doris Kearns Goodwin counseled a York County audience recently on qualities to look for in a presidential candidate.

Her well-received visit raised the question about who would follow her in an annual or bi-annual fundraiser for the York County Heritage Trust... .

This was the first graphic or photograph to appear with a York Town Square post, accompanying York Market House No. 5 - Carlisle Avenue Market, revisited in April 2006. Incidentally, that the present-day Dreamwrights building was built as a farmers market still surprises folks. Background posts: There were 5, count 'em, 5 York markets and Don't know much about (York market) history?.

The year 2007 saw visitors to this blog increase exponentially over the previous two years we've been posting.

We hope you are enjoying each day's history lesson. The numbers, increased commenting and e-mails suggest you are.

A list of best, first and most popular posts at this blog follows:

"My Weekly Reader," that children's newsletter so familar to millions was the brainchild of a York County educator, Eleanor Johnson. Background posts: Katharine Beecher, 'Legacies', Delma Rivera, 'Legacies' and One-room memories flow from readers' fingertips.

In the 1920s, York County educator Eleanor Johnson was concerned that students did not know what was happening in the world - "not a flicker."

That was the seed that started the children's newspaper "My Weekly Record."...

These images from the U.S. Treasury Department show the four presidential one dollar coins, and their reverse side, right, that will be issued in 2008. From left are, James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren. Artist Don Everhart, who grew up in York County, had a hand in all of them. Background posts: Engraver's work keeps his name in circulation and Graffiti artists today, masters worthy of study tomorrow.

Central York grad and U.S. Mint sculptor/engraver Don Everhart is back in the news.

He designed the John Quincy Adams image on the front of the soon-to-be-released new dollar coin that is part of presidential series. And that's his Statue of Liberty will be on the back of the new James Monroe, Adams, Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren coins... .

Connecticut head coach Randy Edsall awaits his helmet before riding in a NASCAR race car at the Richard Petty Driving Experience before taking laps at the Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. in this Associated Press photograph. Edsall and his brother, Duke, a former Atlantic Coast Conference basketball referee, graduated from Susquehannock High School. Background posts about other York sports achievers: Butch Wynegar ranks bright among York's sports stars and Lenny Moore has strong links to York.

Two brothers from Glen Rock have made it big on the national sports scene.

Duke Edsall has called 20 NCAA tournaments, including one Final Four, as a basketball referee.

His younger brother and fellow Susquehannock High School grad has just coached University of Connecticut's football team to its best Division I season.

There just seems to be no end to people with York County roots making national headlines ... .

Herbert Cohen was just 5 years old in this photo, taken when his family returned to St. Petersburg, Russia, to visit family. He's sitting on the floor, to the right, in this photo. Also in the photo are: Herbert's grandmother, 'Baba' Kagen (seated at left), Herbert's mother, Pauline Cohen (standing directly behind 'Baba'), and Milton Cohen, 8 years old (at the feet of his grandmother.) The only other person the family can identify is Marie (on the far left), who is Pauline's sister. Background posts: List growing of high state officials hailing from York County and Follow the Leader ... George Leader.

A yorktownsquare.com commenter wondered where he could find the "Builders and Heroes" profile on the Cohen/Schepp families of York County.

A series on this blog sampled four of the families, and a list of all 50-plus "family builders" pointed to a profile on this accomplished York family, the most noteworthy member being former Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice and Attorney General Herb Cohen... .

Sidney Poitier smiles while making his way to the podium at the Valencia Ballroom in 2002. Poitier was the guest speaker of The Junior League of York's "In The Spotlight" Speaker Series. For more on the Valencia, see below. Background posts: Original WSBA station hands mic to demolition team and Valencia Ballroom became cool place during Depression.

You're sitting in the living room surrounded by visiting loved ones.

And the talk perhaps turns to York County, its strengths, weakness and befuddling quirks.

And you want to show your smarts about this complex, often perplexing county, which boasts of a bottomless fund of history.

So began my most recent York Sunday News column:

So to help you strut your intelligence, we continue what we started last Christmas and come up with another 20 questions for you to pose (search on this blog for additional details) ... .

Plantiffs' attorney Eric Rothschild addresses the media following closing statements in the Dover intelligent design trial in November 2005. The civil trial was one of the nationally prominent cases involving York County in decades. Background posts: County First Amendment list grows and Dover intelligent design trial not over yet.

Last post, Witman murder among York County's most notorious crimes cited a sampling of major criminal cases that hit York County Court in recent years.

The following is a short list of other civil and criminal actions of note involving York County or York County people: ...

Dr. Maulana Karenga, widely known as the creator of Kwanzaa, graduated from York's William Penn High School. The widely published author was known as Ron Everett during his York days. Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday celebrating black unity. Background posts: Amanda Berry Smith: 'God's image carved in ebony' and Black playwright earning place in history.

Families gathering during the holidays sometimes like to show off their York smarts.

So we've included a quiz on York County's black history, followed by some inspirational quotes from achievers with York roots.

Look for an additional post on general history in York County on Monday:

Good luck in stumping your loved ones!

Max Samuel "Tom" Grumbacher, who died in 2006, was an integral part of his family's Bon-Ton Department Stores for 65 years. He was the son of Bon-Ton founder Max Grumbacher and his wife, Daisy. Background posts: The Cassimatises and The Yeagleys,

In the middle part of the 20th century, Bon-Ton's downtown store served as one of York's big three. Bear's and Wiest's made up the primary retail attractions in the heart of York.

When suburbia beckoned, the Bon-Ton expanded to the York Mall, the North York Mall and Queensgate.

Today, the retail chain has about 275 stores in more than 20 states... .

Entertainer Nick Lachey, center, is flanked by his mother, Cate, and then-wife, singer Jessica Simpson in this Associated Press photograph. Bruce Reinert, the manager of Dover's Central League baseball team, married Cate in 2003. Background post: Mom of Lachey brothers makes home in York County and Add another to list of entertainers with York links.
Unless one of you readers comes forth with other achievers/celebs with Dover ties, this could be last post until someone else from that York County community takes the stage.

The Dover area is home to the mother of entertainers Nick and Drew Lachey.

We'll get back to that in a moment.

A second Dover-area resident also made national news the other day... .

Mary and Andrew Cassimatis are the American founders of a Greek family in York County that has gained great success. The family is profiled in the book "Heroes and Builders." Background posts on other achievers profiled: Wiest's first store: 'Segars' 5 cents a grab and The Yeagleys: 'Builders and Heroes,' and The Grumbachers: York's 'Builders and Heroes,' and The Orrs: 'Builders and Heroes'.

The Greek Cassimatis family of York County has risen high in a short time in heavily Pennsylvania Dutch York County.

It's a great American story that started with the arrival of a family to America in the early 1900s that produced one of York County's most esteemed judges in the early 2000s... .

Elizabeth Marshall was York's first elected female mayor and member of city council. She was a recent mugging victim in her beloved city. Background posts: Images capture hope for racial harmony and Rainmaker's visit indicated much awry in York.

A news story this week told about the assault on former York mayor Elizabeth Marshall.

Marshall, who was not seriously injured, vowed to not let the incident take over her life... .

Don Everhart's Statue of Liberty design, seen in this February 2007 York Daily Record photo, will be on the back of coins in the U.S. Mint's series of presidential dollar coins. Background posts covering other columns by fellow blogger June Lloyd: York County's connection to the French Quarter and First woman concert sax player had links to York troupe.

Former York countian Don Everhart is yet another native who had gained national fame.

He recently made news for his work in sculpting the front of a congressional gold coin granted to the Dalai Lama.

Everhart is a sculptor/engraver for the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, and a portfolio of his work is below... .

William Penn High School grad Chris Doleman was one of several York countians to score success in the NFL. Background posts: Lineup full of sports stars with York County links and Hinkey and the Babe teamed up in '23 and Names of stars from York County with pro sports links just keep increasing and A journey from Delone Catholic to the Super Bowl .

Dover's John Kuhn is part of a short list of York County athletes who have made the NFL in recent years.

A sampling of former NFL players born in York County to join Kuhn, the former Pittsburgh Steeler and current Green Bay Packer into professional football, according to a York Daily Record report:

John Kuhn, right, works out at Leader Health & Fitness in 2005. Kuhn is a Dover High and Shippensburg graduate. After a stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the back now plays for the Green Bay Packers. Background posts on other Dover achievers: Wiest's first store: 'Segars' 5 cents a grab and Olympic gold medalist Scott Strausbaugh another Dover product.

Add NFLer John Kuhn to the list of achievers from Dover.

Kuhn made it to the Super Bowl as part of the Steelers practice squad in 2006. He was the second York countian to play as a back for the Steelers in recent years following Eastern York High School grad Jon Witman... .

This Associated Press photograph shows Dover's Scott Strausbaugh, front, and Joe Jacobi of Bethesda, Md., in their successful quest for a gold medal in men's canoeing whitewater doubles in 1992 Olympic competition in Seu d'Urbell Spain. Strausbaugh is another successful Dover-area product. Background posts: 'The Edison of Cumberland Valley' and http://www.yorktownsquare.com/2007/11/dover-history-and-drawbaugh-1.htmlDover's uneven history runs deep into well-tilled German soil.

In covering celebs hailing from Dover in a previous post, Scott Strausbaugh is on the list as a pride of the community.

Strausbaugh was an Olympic gold medalist just 15 years ago, the fifth canoeing and kayaking medal won by Americans in that competition up to that point.

Here were some comments by and about the canoeist, a 1981 Dover Area High School grad, at that time:

The large-scale outdoor panel, part of the Murals of York series, shows Dr. George Holtzapple deploying oxygen to treat a Loganville pneumonia patient. Background posts: Looking for a local history research project? and Of surgical saws, bloodletting.

George Holtzapple, longtime physician at York Hospital, has been credited in local lore as the very first user of oxygen for treatment of pneumonia in 1885.

As a young physician, just out of medical school, Holtzapple (1862-1946) used a primitive experiment to produce oxygen to save the life of 16-year-old Frederick Gable.

Well, two York Hospital researchers, writing in the Journal of Medical Biography in November 2005, have clarified Holtzapple's achievement... .

The Civil War-era U.S. Army General Hospital became a major site for treatment because of its proximity to Virginia and Maryland, where many battles took place, and its location on a major rail line. Here, convalescents pose in one of the hospital wards at the Penn Park complex. The military hospital is an example of a York County history topic awaiting study. Background posts: Civil War nurse: 'Dogs of War in our midst' and Not all rebel wounded suffered after Gettysburg.

Many people use New Year's to kick off historical research projects.

My York Sunday News column Looking for a local history research project? probed several topics ripe for research focusing on York's Civil War-era military hospital.

The following is a sampling of topics from York County history awaiting further exploration or publication of existing research:

Jonah Lehrer is a Rhodes scholar and author whose book "Proust Was a Neuroscientist" gained the attention of New York Times reviewers. And he has links to York County. Background post detailing other national literary and arts figures with York ties: A & E greats.

Jonah Lehrer's new book, "Proust Was a Neuroscientist," was recently reviewed in the New York Times.

Its another case of an achiever with York County links making it big on the national scene.

The 25-year-old is the son of York County native Jean Hively, a 1970 graduate of Red Lion Area Senior High School. Today, she lives with her family in Los Angeles but has relatives in York County.

To give a taste of the book, The New York Times review begins:

The Del McCoury Band -- led by county native Del McCoury, right -- brought bluegrass to The Strand-Capitol last New Year's Eve. "Del McCoury doesn't consider himself hip, but just about everyone who's ever heard a bluegrass tune seems to think otherwise. McCoury admits, however, that he does think it's important to look snazzy on stage," a York Daily Record photo caption stated in promoting the performance.The band will be playing in York in early 2008 at the York County Chamber Annual Inaugural Ball. Background posts: Roy Rogers took York County stage but not alone and Story on famed 101 Ranch Boys spawns memories.

A yorktownsquare.com reader pointed out that in my lists of national arts and entertainment giants hailing from York County, I hadn't mentioned the Del McCoury Band. I actually included the band in a post of national performers from York County, but haven't focused on this celebrated bluegrass band.

McCoury, who says he was born on the family farm in the Pidgeon Hills, has been at it for years and keeps getting better.

The York Daily Record said this about McCoury in a 2006 story:

Glatfelter makes a multitude of paper products including metallic labels for beer bottles and colored pencils, books and playing cards. Harry Potter books were printed on Glatfelter paper, as were Tom Brokaw's "Greatest Generation," Tom Clancy's "The Bear and the Dragon," Frank McCourt's "Tis." Background posts: Glatfelter, Morgan Smith head industrial legacy list and Glatfelter, Farquhar, Shipley: Insights from local greats.

Four sons of Spring Grove paper mill owner P.H. Glatfelter II went off to fight in World War II.

William L., a York Corporation employee, did not come back, a plane crash victim. Along with York rabbi Alexander D. Goode, of Four Chaplains fame, W.L. was the most prominent York countian to die in the war.

Three sons came back, P.H. III, Ted and George... .

Chris Thorn, center, a Dover native and guitar player for Blind Melon, is another national celebrity from Dover. The band reunited to make an album and is now back on tour. Background post: Dominick Argento at top of York County A&E hall of fame.

Of course, Chris Thorn of Blind Melon is another national celebrity from Dover.

In previous posts listing Dover-area such national newsmakers as John "Clarkie" Souza, Cate Reinart (mother of Nick and Drew Lachey), long trumpeter Bill School, Jeff Koons, Part II, Gov. George Leader, weightlifting guru Bob Hoffman, I overlooked Dover Area High School graduate Thorn.

That's a lot of national quality action from one rural area. (Am I missing anyone else?)

Thorn's leading the rebirth of Blind Melon, as recent York Daily Record coverage suggests:

Nineteenth-century evangelist Amanda Berry Smith is profiled in a recent book "More Than Petticoats: Remarkable Pennsylvania Women." (For details, see below.) Before the Civil War, her family purchased its freedom, and she resided in York County. Background post: Autobiographies contain valuable golden nuggets.

The historical monument for noted evangelist Amanda Berry Smith is out of the way for most York County travelers.

It's on the by-passed Susquehanna Trail in Shrewsbury. It's not far from the Mason-Dixon Line, the same boundary that spelled freedom for Smith as youngster... .

The Rev. Rene Kinard gives his final prayer after an outdoor baptism ceremony in the stream at the Dover Area Community Park during a Civil War re-enactment church service in 2005. The Dover area loves its history and has made some, too. Background post: York, Cumberland counties longtime companions.

In previous posts, we've seen that Dover borough in York County is more than the hometime of internationally acclaimed artist Jeffrey Koons.

And it's more than home to the celebrated Dover intelligent design trial, brought to public view again recently via "Nova."

I'll get to another noteworthy part of Dover in a minute... .

The Drawbaugh family is another accomplished Dover-area family .

Well, its most prominent member, Daniel Drawbaugh, actually lived in Cumberland County's Eberly's Mills, which isn't exactly Dover.

But give me a little geographical license and look in the phone book at all the Drawbaughs in the Dover area, and you'll see why "The Edison of the Cumberland Valley," can be claimed by Dover and the entire northwest sector of York County.

Inventor Daniel was engaged in legal fisticuffs with Alexander Graham Bell over rights to the telephone, as this story in "Never to be Forgotten" attests:

This October photo shows Dover native Jeff Koons' 'Hanging Heart' on display in New York. Sotheby's recently sold the piece for $23.6 million. Background post: Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here, Add another celebrity link to Dover, Pa., Artist Jeff Koons came back to York for a show and York County native Jeff Koons' work raises question: But is it art?.

The Dover area certainly has produced more than the landmark Dover intelligent design case.

NFL'er John Kuhn graduated from Dover High.

Dover High grad Scott Strausbaugh won an Olympic Gold Medal in whitewater canoe racing in 1992.

Dover-area's Ray Krone was the 100th death row inmate freed from by DNA testing.

But artist Jeff Koons is Dover's most internationally famous product of this largely rural area.

His sculpture recently brought in $23.6 million at Sotheby's.

Jennifer Vogelsong's York Daily Record/Sunday News story on Koons' accomplishment follows:

The former Highland Park site, a destination point for trolley riders from across York County, is now a West Manchester Township quarry. Here, a trolley waits at the park's entrance. Background post: A village center that up and moved.

Did you know part of the impetus for the electrification of America's trolleys rested with the tendency of horses to become diseased from strain in getting the heavy cars started?

And a single horse deposited 10 to 20 pounds of manure on the street each day.The streets were generally muddy in inclement weather anyway - which fueled ridership - but their condition was not helped by animal excrement.

And trolleys drew their names from the trolley wheel that rolled along the line once the systems were electrified... .

York County's Jeff Bridgman is a former Americana dealer who has become an expert in antique American flags. Background post: To see the American flag in a historic York County moment, see: York County's own Civil War - Part I .

From obscure Franklin Township comes a well-known expert on antique American flags.

Operating out of his northwest York County workshop, Jeff Bridgman is considered the top dealer in antique flags in America.

So what does he think about Betsy Ross's place in history?

J.W. Gitt plays a round at Hanover Country Club at age 88. Gitt helped found the country club. This photograph came from Mary Hamilton's recent biography on Gitt, "Rising from the Wilderness." Background post: J.W. Gitt: 'Just say it ... straight out'

Gordon Freireich, York Daily Record/Sunday News columnist, raised the question in a recent piece about why the Hanover Country Club is in Abbottstown, not Hanover.

Mary Hamilton devoted many pages to the club and its founding in her recently published biography of J.W. Gitt, "Rising from the Wilderness."... .

This good-natured mock surrender ceremony in 1988 served as a symbolic point of change in York's official view of the town's surrender to the Confederates 125 years earlier. When confronted with the demand by Confederate Gen. Jubal Early, played here by Richard Knapp of Red Lion, center, York Mayor William Althaus, left, declined. 'We are no longer unprotected, having the finest police department in the country,' Althaus said. Background posts: York finally coming to terms with its Civil War legacy and All Civil War posts from the start.

Should York's leaders have abandoned ship upon the Confederate approach in the days before the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863?

That decision to surrender became controversial the moment it was made, and the debate continues to this day.

The following are excerpts from my article in the York Daily Record some years ago that address the question in pro/con format:

The 101 Ranch Boys stand outside the York Furniture Center, local sponsor of the nationally know country and western group. Background post: Story on famed 101 Ranch Boys spawns memories

People really remember the boys.

But the group is more than a memory for Joe Mirasola.

It help launch the career of the York musician and seller of instrument, as Mike Argento reports in a 2006 story.

Melvin P. Livingston, a fourth great-grandson of Philip Livingston; and Elaine Livingston, a fifth great-granddaughter of Philip Livingston, read a short biography of the signer of the Declaration of Independence during the unveiling of a plaque in the Prospect Hill Cemetery in 2005. Declaration of Independence signer Philip Livingston died in York in 1778. Declaration signer's plaque mounted in obscurity

When Continental Congress delegate Philip Livingston died in office in York, he was laid to rest in the German Reformed Church Cemetery, later occupied by Woolworth's.

Years later, the New York delegate's body was moved to Prospect Hill Cemetery. Grandson Stephen Van Rensselaer erected a monument that stands today.

Although this once-prominent statesman's name has largedly been lost to history, he is still remembered by his family. Members of this still-prominent family - whose members include the Bush presidents and Eleanor Roosevelt - gather annually at his grave... .

The southern York County hex murder house is shown as investigators were on site collecting evidence in the murder of Nelson Rehmeyer. That led to a trial of the attackers that gained international attention in 1929. For more photographs of the house, see Sparking interest in site.

I took a tour of Rehmeyer's Hollow and its famous Hex house, where three assailants killed witch Nelson Rehmeyer in 1928 in their quest to break a spell cast on one of them.

This was the first time I've seen the house since a member of the Rehmeyer family declared plans to turn it into a museum - a plan that has drawn the wrath of township officials.

As usual, the top of the tall house was visible first as you drove out of a dip after leaving Line Road. It hits you almost by surprise. Why would such an odd-looking structure stand in this bucolic area? ...

Nostalgia points us to those days when life seemed sweeter or simpler, even though it wasn't always.

So I noted in a recent post.

With all its wonderful community-building tendencies, nostalgia at times can mask memories of a sometimes gritty, less-than-perfect place and time.

Such lapses can make county life today seem worse in comparison.

Here's just one example of our checkered past, an attraction at the York Fair that Dave Gulden described in the book, "America's First Fair From Then Until Now."

"Hit the Coon" was a popular throwing game in the 1930s. Drawing from another book, Gulden states that the game involved a canvas scene with a hole cut in it. A black man stuck his head through the hole and tried to dodge the ball.... .

Motorists who drive by the Smittie's Soft Pretzel stand in Dover Township might not recognize this as the headquarters for this York County landmark.

Bury's Burgers, Melvin's Drive-In, Playland, White Oak Park, Shady Dell are among the York-area icons we've explored in this blog.

Places like these continue to provide a mountain of memories - a kind of group recollection - that act as magic glue making a community a community.

Now come two others for the list: Bricker's French Fries and Smitties Soft Pretzels... .

Gen. James Ewing of Hellam Township was perhaps the highest ranking York countian serving in the Continental Army.

He headed forces in the Battle of Trenton in 1776, though the 1,000 militiamen he led could not cross the Delaware into New Jersey downriver from George Washington because of hazardous conditions.

Ewing had another problem - a controversial half-brother Dr. John Connolly. This was the same Continue reading York County's American Revolution general not his half-brother's keeper.

Despite a resume that would consume a ream of paper, York native Ernest Lefever does not make Wikipedia's best-of-york list.

Wikipedia gives a list of 74 people from York with enough world-wide contributions to make the team.

Obviously, the list has some holes.

I recognized - and have written - about many of those listed.

But I didn't recall at least one name - Kevin Jones, BMX rider - a freestyle BMX rider... .

Ernest Lefever, York native and Renaissance man.

This idea that a bit of York can be found everywhere repeatedly finds backing.

Ernest Lefever is a world-renowned scholar and founder of the Washington, D.C.-based Ethics and Public Policy Center. Lefever established the think tank in 1976 to "clarify and reinforce the bond between the Judeo-Christian moral tradition and the public debate over domestic and foreign policy issues." (Former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum is a fellow with the center.)

And Ernest Lefever is a York native.

And he's a Renaissance man with a mile-long resume.

From his bio:...

Former major leaguer Gene Crumling inspects his plaque during the recent opening of the York County Sports Hall of Fame.

Sandy Noel left a query on a previous post Lineup full of sports stars with York County links.

It was one of those everyday riddles people like to solve.

Here is Sandy's query:

"My father, Luther James Brenneman was inducted to the Central York County League, Baseball Hall of Fame in 1992. He was an infielder and played for North York. He would have played in the late 40's, early 50's. I received a plaque with his name on it, and I am trying to get more information about it."

If you know, please contact Sandy at sjnwhatever@comcast.net.

But those with sports questions have another resource. The York Area Sports Hall of Fame has a new home. So the museum at Insurance Service United office at 224 N. George St. in York might be a place for Sandy and others with sports questions to start. The folks there might not know it but might be able to point inquirers in the right direction.

A York Daily Record story on the museum follows:

The Hex murder case in 1928 was strange to begin with, involving witchcraft and faith healing and a world-wide audience and teenage defendants and so on.

So it shouldn't be surprising that government's denial of the murder site in spooky Rehmeyer's Hollow as a museum would be strangely disappointing.

Although one could wonder whether the museum site would have been presented with historical integrity, explaining powwowing and this famous case would have heightened interest in York County history. It was a project with merit.

Perhaps something could be salvaged - an exhibit at the York County Heritage Trust or Historic York's Architectural Warehouse, as two examples.

Or perhaps the historical society in Stewartstown could become involved at the Rehmeyer Hollow site.

Two others reacting to the North Hopewell Township action are worth repeating here.

First, Ross McGinnis, author of the "Trial of Hex":

Mary Allienne Hamilton uncovered some news in her recently published biography on J.W. Gitt, long-time owner of The Gazette and Daily.

That the left-leaning York newspaper owner from 1915 to 1970 was not a communist had previously been reported based on Hamilton's research and Freedom of Information Act requests. We know that for two reasons: The FBI could not establish such a link even after monitoring Gitt for a couple of decades. And Gitt joined his friend and political ally Henry A. Wallace in resigning the Progressive Party in the early 1950s because of Communist infiltration.

But here was the question: Did Gitt ever appear before a McCarthy-inspired committee?...

Ray Krone, seen in his York County home, was the 100th exonerated death-row inmate. A new book tells about his time in court and prison.

A York Daily Record story about Ray Krone started:

A year ago (2005), Ray Krone revealed his Extreme Makeover to his family, friends and the entire country.

The nation's 100th exonerated death-row inmate had been wrongly convicted twice in the 1991 murder of a Phoenix barmaid.

He became known as "the Snaggletooth Killer" because experts said his ragged teeth matched a bite mark found on the victim.

The ABC TV show "Extreme Makeover" gave him a makeover -- including new teeth -- to erase that image.

Now, a new book reveals more about the falsely convicted Krone, as another York Daily Record story explains:

David Beckham has brought Major League Soccer into the spotlight in his debut with the Los Angeles Galaxy.

He remains a member of England's national team.

England's national team. That's the one that lost to America's entry in the World Cup in 1950.

That 500-to-1 upset is outlined in the book, "The Game of Their Lives," and the movie with the same name.

That upset featured the great play of a York countian, John "Clarkie" Souza.

Here's York Daily Record/Sunday News writer Frank Bodani's 2004 story on York County's most famous soccer player:

Bill Schintz, York photo studio owner, captured The Del-Chords during a reunion about 10 years ago.

Memories about the 1960s local rock band The Del-Chords continue to pile up.

Jim Isenberg is the latest to comment on a past Del-Chords' post about all those who made up the band over the years:

As Dave Bupp has said, The Del-Chords were comprised of a "host of characters". If memory serves, they included Dave Bupp, Bill "Cheeks" Schlosser, Jeff Hildebrand, Jere Hetrick, Edward "Buck" Generette, Otto "Spike" Sexton, Edward "Ike" Bowers, Allen "Jap" Shue, Don Sponsler, Dale Saxon, Ernie Banks, Ron Searle, and Adrian "Buddy" King. Does anyone out there have any additions or corrections?

Local ace photographer Bill Schintz e-mailed a note about the band titled "Del-Chords unfair!" ...

The YLT archives has many treasures including the program for the theater group's first full-length production 'Lady Windermere's Fan.'

The York Little Theatre is one of the community organizations that grew from the Great Depression.

As a sidebar to a news package on YLT in the York Sunday News says, the theater group has produced many stars who have gone on to bigger stages.

In keeping with this blog's series of local folks who have done great things elsewhere,
we include a story on former YLT stars Bobby Spencer and Michael Patrick Walker:

Tracey Roberts of York Myotherapy is shown with Joey McIntyre, left, of New Kids on the Block fame, and Drew Lachey, from 'Dancing with the Stars.' Lachey's mother lives in York County and is one of Roberts' patients.

Who can doubt that all roads lead to York when you learn that the mother of Drew and Nick Lachey lives in York County?

Cate Reinert is the mother of Drew, star of "Dancing with the Stars," and Nick, 98 Degrees singer.

Her name came up as a connection between a local therapist and the mom.

A York Daily Record story on therapist Tracey Roberts began this way:

This clock, which belonged to Nelson Rehmeyer, supposedly stopped at 12:01 a.m. on the night he was killed in 1928. The clock that stopped after Nelson Rehmeyer's death. (See video tour of Hex murder house below.)

With all the news stories about the Hex murder house opening as a museum and the release of the powwowers handbook "The Long Lost Friend" on CD , the white magic practice of powwowwing to cure maladies has been raised.

Some people believe Nelson Rehmeyer, the victim in the Hex murder case of 1928-29 was a witch. Others say he was merely a doctor practicing powwowing, popular in many York County towns in the 20th century.

The following York Daily Record story describes the practice:

This was Hex murder victim Nelson Rehmeyer's copy of "The Long Lost Friend," a target of his assailants.

Some enterprising bookshop owners are selling a CD-ROM of the book "The Long Lost Friend," that became part of the Hex murder in York County in 1928.

The assailants in the murder case of Nelson Rehmayer sought, among other things, the suspected witch's copy of the book.

That book contains such advice as:

Gen. Jacob L. Devers meets with President John F. Kennedy about his work as chair of the Battle Monuments Commission, one of Devers' assignments after retirement from the military in addition to creating the U.S. Army Field Band. Devers was impressed with Kennedy's astute questions after Devers submitted his final report and showed his prickly relationship with Ike Eisenhower: "Now Eisenhower, if you'd gone in there under the same conditions, he'd have done all the talking and he never would have found out what you came in for." (York County Heritage Trust photo). Background posts: Gettysburg's Ike and Manchester's Henry and York native Jacob L. Devers' name still in service at Fort Knox, Ky.

History came together at Farquhar Park on Sunday.

The U.S. Army Field Band played at the landmark bandstand in the landmark park.

Gen. Jacob L. Devers of York is sometimes called "the father of the band," according to Michael Markey's book "Jake, The General From West York Avenue."

And Jakie Devers grew up not far from Farquhar Park, on what is now known as Roosevelt Avenue.

Markey explains that Devers in the post-war period contacted military conductor Chester Whiting to direct a new musical unit that would act as a public relations vehicle for the Army... .

Brad LeVault, a ranking officer at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, is a Spring Grove native. Background posts: York has produced its share of high-ranking naval officers and Book gives positive view about forgotten general Jake Devers.

Those who believe all roads lead to York got further evidence if they read the weekend York Sunday News story about one of the top guys at Cuba's Guantanamo Bay Naval Base.

Brad LeVault is from York County, specifically Spring Grove.

In an interview, the nine-month vet of Gitmo declined to speculate about reports that the White House plans to close the military base.

"I always say, I get paid to take orders," LeVault said.

Our story described Gitmo and made an interesting comparison between that site and Spring Grove of yore:

A Life magazine artist captured the York White Roses in this 1941 painting. This scene is probably at York's Martin-Parry field. After World War II, the York White Roses played its games at Memorial Stadium, constructed to honor those who died and served in the war. It was at Memorial Stadium that Brooks Robinson made his major league debut on June 3, 1955.

I took a swing in a York Sunday News column about the night that Brooks Robinson broke into professional baseball. That was the night that P.A. announcer George Trout got his name wrong and the newspapers had him as second baseman "Bob" Robinson for the next two weeks.

But I particularly like the anecdote from shortstop Curly Holtzapple, the other half of the double play duo with Brooks, that I included with my column:

Greg Vojtanek brings acting experience to his role with the York Revolution. Central York High School's Mark Zortman is keeping a running list of those with national acting credits. Background posts: Hanover native Ann Roth explains how she designs costumes for Hollywood and Many national stars first performed on YLT's stage and York native Steve Zirnkilton's 'Law & Order' voice known to the world and Cameron Mitchell, Craig Sheffer, Dixie Chick born here .

Greg Vojtanek, marketing manager for the York Revs, is bringing Hollywood experience to make each home game an event.

Vojtanek appeared in "Princess Diaries II," as George, the lip reader. He was also in a deleted scene (available on DVD) in "Raising Helen," as a security guard/stage manager. He had a brief walking scene with Kate Hudson.

He has appeared in commercials and soap operas before switching to promotions in organized baseball.

"I just said, 'I think I want to work in baseball.' I don't know why. I have no idea what came over me," he told the York Daily Record in a recent story.

He is another in a long line of people with York links to work as actors on stage or screen.

Mark Zortman of Central York High School keeps a running list of those who have gone on to big things... . (This supplements past posts on this blog.) ...

York County's Hinkey Haines and Babe Ruth teamed up in 1923.

Major League Baseball Hall-of-Famer Brooks Robinson and former lefty Ken Raffensberger appeared in a York Daily Record roundup of athletes who touched York County in some way.

The 2006 story provides an impressive list of links between the world of sports and the county of York:

Brooks Robinson poses in a White Roses uniform in 1955. He graduated from high school in Arkansas and immediately joined the York team, where he started his professional career.

George Trout was at the mic before the York Revs' first game at the new stadium.

Brooks Robinson was on the field as part of a tribute to former York White Rose players.

Trout recounted the story of how he introduced Brooks, then in his first professional season in 1955, as "Bob."

The shorthand version of the story is that young public address announcer Trout needed a first name to go with the B. Robinson he was introducing.

The official scorer said it must be "Bob," and Trout went with it.

Here's Jim Seip's longer version, from a 2005 interview with Trout :...

The Murals of York two-panel presentation of Jacob L. Devers.

York native Jacob L. Devers is an all-but-forgotten four-star World War II general.

That could come because he wasn't flashy and didn't mug for the press in the same mold as George Patton and certain other fellow generals.

But primarily his lack of prominence today comes because Ike Eisenhower did not rate him highly... .

Nelson Rehmeyer, victim in the Hex murder of 1928, is seen in this family photo on his East Hopewell Township farm.

On Thursday, the media was granted access to the house of Nelson Rehmeyer, victim in the Hex murder case.

York Daily Record/Sunday News photographer Paul Kuehnel was there with both video and still cameras.

Paul nicely captured the scene in his video (see below).

Caryl Clarke reported from the scene and came up with a message from victim Nelson Rehmeyer's great-grandson: "Whatever befell this small, turn-of-the-century German farmhouse came from the outside, not from within."

We wish those behind the effort to showcase the house the best of everything.

But we will put up this precaution in our Sunday Viewpoints section in Scott Fisher's opinion piece "Hex house to offer tours":

J. Ross McGinnis, a lawyer and York County native, wrote the book on the Hex murder trial.

His "Trials of Hex," is a readable compendium of primary source documents and analysis. His book, published in 2000, is out of print, but available at York County libraries.

McGinnis, who has been speaking on the Hex murder for years, provides this insight in his foreword:

Five quick notes about the Hex murder of 1928, back in the news because of the proposed opening of the site of the notorious York County powwow killing: ...

You never know who you're run into when you're out giving speeches.

I was at West Manchester's Country Meadows recently doing a presentation on York County and World War II.

A resident at the assisted living place stood up and proceeded to tell the audience about meeting Hedy Lamarr during her visit to York Safe & Lock, now occupied by Harley-Davidson, in 1942. (See Hedy Lamarr's visit to York long remembered.)

C. Clark Julius sat beside her during a program to drum up War Bond sales. He conjectured that he must have been a big giver to have received such an honor.

I asked him what he remembered about the beautiful actress, and he immediately said that she talked a lot -- the whole time in fact... .

That's a curious thing to remember about Hedy Lamarr... .

In the late 1980s, Richard M. Nixon walked a trail in the county park near Jacobus named in his honor. York Barbell founder Bob Hoffman donated land for the park in 1968. After the visit, Nixon donated $5,000 to the park and regularly contributed until his death in 1994. Richard Nixon had roots in York County. His parents moved to a Menges Mills farm in 1946 and stayed there eight years. Richard visited his parents several times in that interval.

In preparation for its 40th anniversary in 2008, York County parks, set to celebrate its 40th anniversary next year, is seeking submissions in the creation of a "History of York County Parks" book.

That means any memorabilia, pictures, documents, stories or artifacts linked to the parks from their beginning... .

Monica Goodling did not leave deep, lasting memories on many in York County.

But York Daily Record/Sunday News reporters continue to develop the portrait of the former York Haven-area woman who has been part of proceedings probing the Bush administration's firing of U.S. attorneys... .