"Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors,
and let every new year find you a better man."
Benjamin Franklin (1705—1790)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Windy, very cold, lake-effect snow (1, 2, 3) with more snow (4, 5). Fair and very cold (6, 7, 8) with Nor’easter, heavy snow (9, 10, 11); fair and bitter cold (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) with more snow in the southern part of the region (18, 19); fair and very cold again (20, 21, 22); windy, lake-effect snow (23, 24, 25) turning fair, not as cold (26, 27, 28, 29, 30) with more lake-effect snow (31).

Full Moon: The first Full Moon of 2020 will occur on Friday, January 10th. Often referred to as Wolf Moon (because of the increased boldness of wolf packs venturing closure and closer to their camps looking for food), it has also been called Hunger Moon by many Native American tribes because of the scarcity of food at this time of year,

Special Notes: The 2020 Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack is its 224th edition, continuously published since its first appearance in 1797! While it is the second oldest almanac in the United States, it is the ONLY almanac in America that is still published by heirs of its founder, John Gruber. He and his partner and son-in-law, Daniel May, would be proud to see their almanac continuing to provide detailed, and now more refined weather forecasts and accurate astronomical data proven to be vital to the agricultural success in the region. It is our commitment to continue improving our look, the accuracy of our weather forecasts, and offering useful information and inspiration to help one survive in today’s world. In that way.

Holidays: New Year’s Day in 2020 falls on Wednesday, January 1st. The birthday of famed civil rights activist leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15, 1929) is celebrated on the third Monday of January. This year, it is Monday, January 20th. This great leader must be remembered on this day for the great social changes he brought about in this country and for the ultimate sacrifice he made pursuing unity and racial harmony which still eludes us today.

The Garden: Mulch landscape beds for winter if you haven't already (and if the weather allows). Mulching prevents erosion, protects against soil freezes and thaws, and helps retain moisture - all particularly beneficial over a dry winter. There are many different types of mulch. You can even recycle your cut Christmas tree and use the branches to cover perennials!

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (16, 17); weeding and stirring the soil (12, 13); planting above-ground crops (27, 28); harvesting all crops (2, 4, 20, 21); the best days for setting hens and incubators (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (1, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31; transplanting (1, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (1, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28); harvesting and storing grains (17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23)

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"The next twelve months offer a world of promise; it all depends on each of us and how much we are willing to give of ourselves to help make it a better world"

“The groundhog is like most prophets;
it makes its prediction and then disappears.”
- Bill Vaughn (1947- )

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Cold, periods of light snow (1,2,3,4,5) with Nor’easter and heavy snow (6,7,8). Fair, rather cold (9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16) remaining fair, but not as cold (17,18). Snow, some rain in the southern part of the region (19,20,21) turning fair, cold 22,23,24,25,26) with Nor’easter, heavy snow (27,28,29).

Full Moon: February’s Full Moon will occur on , the 9st. It has been called Wolf Moon due to the howling heard during the month, the middle of their breeding season. In other parts of North America, where tribes saw the deepest snow, it was called Snow Moon and because there was such an extreme scarcity of game to hunt, it was also aptly referred to as Hunger Moon.

Special Notes: “Punxsutawney Phil” makes his much-anticipated appearance on Sunday, February 2nd to ‘predict’ the coming of Spring! How this little marmota monax reacts to the day’s weather will determine the arrival of Spring. If is sunny and he sees his shadow, he will retreat underground for another 6 weeks of Winter! If it is cloudy and he doesn’t get scared by his own shadow, Spring will come early in 2020.

Holidays: The Christian Festival of Lights, or Candlemas, is celebrated on Sunday, February 2nd. On this day, many churches would traditionally display many more candles than usual during their daily services to not only make the service special but it was also believed that the additional light would provide protection from illness and plague in the coming year. Valentine’s Day, February 14th, falls on Friday in 2020. Show that special someone just how much you appreciate their being a part of your life. The birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Wednesday, February 12th) and George Washington (Saturday, the 22nd) are collectively celebrated on President’s Day which falls on Monday, February 17th to provide us with an extended holiday weekend. Enjoy!

The Garden: The vegetable garden should get its first good tilling of the year, if weather and wetness permits. This will help the weather aid you in breaking up the dirt clods. In the event of snow, be sure to shake or brush off the white stuff from the branches of your evergreens and shrubs. Plants that may have been pushed out of the ground by frost heave should be pressed firmly back into place. Deciduous shrubs and trees are still dormant enough to transplant this month. Once the buds have begun to swell, it will be too late. Continue feeding our feathered friends. You will want them to stick around so they will provide natural insect control when the weather warms again.

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (12, 13); Best for weeding and stirring the soil (3, 5); Best for planting above-ground crops (6, 7); Best for planting root crops (18, 19, 20); for harvesting all crops (16, 17). Best days to set hens and incubators (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16), slaughter and butcher meat (23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28), transplant (23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28), harvest and store grains (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31), wean animals (16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

“If everyone were perfect, there would be no need for criticism, even of oneself”

"If you are enough lucky to be Irish, then you’re are lucky enough”

Old Irish Saying

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Snow, in the northern part of the region, rain in the south (1,2,3); fair and cold (4,5,6,7) with showers, some snow in the north (8.9). Fair and cold again (10,11,12,13,14) with snow in the north, rain in the south (15.16.17).  Fair, cold (18,19,20,23,22) snow in the north, rain in the south (23,24,25,26); fair and cold yet again (27.28.29.29, 30,31). 

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of March 

FULL MOON: March’s FULL MOON will occur on March 9th.  Native Americans came to call it WORM MOON because of the abundance of earthworms that would appear due to the warmer temperatures, softening up the frozen soil. It has also been referred to as SAP MOON because sap would begin to rise and run during this time of year.  

SPECIAL NOTES: Don’t forget to reset all of your clocks and watches when you ‘spring’ ahead an hour on Sunday, March 8th at 2:00 AM EST when Daylight Saving Time begins. The Vernal Equinox occurs on Thursday, March 19th and signals the arrival of Spring (at last!). Known for its high winds, March is the perfect time to "go fly a kite”!  Nothing is as exhilarating except maybe flying itself! Check out some of these classic designs you can make at home at wwww.my-best-kite.com/how-to-build-kites.html.

HOLIDAYS: Sunday, March 1st is the first Sunday in Lent. Be sure to wear green in honor of Ireland’s own,  St. Patrick, on Tuesday, March 17th. 

THE GARDEN: Don’t feed azaleas or rhododendrons until after they bloom.  Then, give them a fertilizer that is specially formulated for plants that prefer acid soil. House plants will react to longer days and brighter light at this time by putting out new growth.  The end of this month is a good time to pinch them back to generate new growth and to thicken them. And do try to plant your peas on St. Patrick’s Day! 

THE FARM: Best days for planting root crops (10,11); weeding and stirring the soil (2,3,29,30); planting above-ground crops (4,5,31); planting root crops (21,22); harvesting all crops (14,15,16); setting hens and incubators (3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16); slaughtering/butchering meat (1,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31); transplanting (1,24,15,26,27,28,29,30,31); harvesting and storing grain (16,17,18,19,2021,22,23); the weaning of all small animals and livestock  (14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23). 

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING

"Never let a day go by that you don’t do more to your fellow man and for your community than you receive."

"There is no glory in star or blossom till looked upon by a loving eye;

There is no fragrance in April breezes till breathed with joy as they wander by”

William Cullen Bryant (1794-1878)

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Fair and cool (1,2,3) with showers, some snow in the northern part of the region (4,5,6,7,8); fair and cool again (9,10,11,12,13,14) with more showers (15,16.  Fair and mild (17,18,19,20,21,22,230 with showers, STORMS (24,25) turning fair and warmer (26,27,28,29,30)

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of April. 

FULL MOON: April’s FULL MOON will occur on Tuesday, Sunday, April 7th. It has been called PINK MOON because of the many pretty flowers coming into bloom throughout the month. And because fishing typically improved during the month due to the warmer weather, it has been also referred to as FISH MOON.

SPECIAL NOTES: In 2020, April Fool’s Day falls on Wednesday, April 1st. Keep an eye for practical jokes and pranks that may be coming your way from family, co-workers, and friends!  Taxes are due on Wednesday, April 15th.  If you are going to be late, file a request for an extension immediately using the form found at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4868.pdf.  And if you cannot pay the full amount of taxes owed on the due date, request an installment plan to help spread the tax liability over several months. Go to http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f9465.pdf for an installment agreement request form and mail it in with your return.  Earth Day is observed on Wednesday, April 22nd. Call the Earth Day Network at (202)518-0044 or go to www.earthday.org for some interesting, fun, and easy activities that you and your family can do that will help promote a healthier relationship with Mother Earth! 

HOLIDAYS: Celebrate Palm Sunday on April 5th, Good Friday on the 10th, and Easter Sunday on April 12th. Honor the resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ by attending the church of your choice. The first day of Ramadan falls on Friday, April 24th.      

THE GARDEN: Begin planting indoor seedlings outdoors.  Harden them off first with several short days outside. Set out annuals and other perennials now. Cool season vegetables, such as spinach, lettuce, peas, broccoli, cauliflower, and beets can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked. A good test of "soil readiness” is to take a handful of soil and squeeze it. If it remains in a ball, it’s too moist and should be allowed to dry further. If it crumbles, start planting!

THE FARM: Best days for planting root crops (7,8); weeding and stirring the soil (25,26,27); planting above-ground crops (1,2); planting root crops (7,8,9) 21,22); harvesting all crops (11,12); planting above the ground crops (28,29); to set hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15); slaughter and butcher meat (22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29); transplanting (22,23,242,5,26,27,28,29);); harvesting and storing of grain (14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21); weaning of animals and livestock (11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19). 

JOHN GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING 

"Arise on a rainy day with as much eagerness as on a sunny day”

"The phrase ’working mother’ is redundant.”

Jane Sellman (1955-    )

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Periods of showers, heavy rain in the southern part of the region (1,2,3,4,5,6); fair and cool (7,8,9) with more showers, STORMS (10,11).  Fair and warm (12,13,14,15) with heavy rains, STORMS in the south again (16,17). Fair and warm again (18,19,20,21) with periods of showers, STORMS (22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29)ending the month with fair and mild temperatures (30,31). 

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of May. 

FULL MOON: The FULL MOON in May occurs on Thursday, May 7th and has been called FLOWER MOON by many Native Americans because of the many flowers that start to emerge and blossom during this month.  The , however, Huron tribes chose to call it BUDDING MOON for the same reasons. Farmers came to refer to it as MILK MOON because of the noticeable increase in milk produced by dairy cows as the weather starts to warm up. 

SPECIAL NOTES: Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on Tuesday, May 5th. Rogation Sunday falls on May 17th, Ascension Thursday follows on May 21st, and World No Tobacco Day is observed on Sunday, 1 May 31st. When looking for a notable historical event that happened to occur during the month of May, it was noticed that the soap operas, Another World and As The World Turns, both aired for the first time on May 4, 1964. Charles W. Fisher, editor of The Almanack from 1973 to 2000, produced both of those shows during over his 28-year career television broadcasting!

HOLIDAYS: Mothers are honored on Mother’s Day, Sunday May 10th. Let Mom know that she’s special with a telephone call, a sentimental card, a nice flower arrangement, or just by spending some quality time with her on her day. Celebrate Armed Forces Day on Tuesday, May 19th and Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 25th.  Those day has been set aside for honoring those who have served in our military and those who are currently serving. Their service and sacrifice have protected our precious freedoms and have ensured that our way of life will continue.  We can extend that recognition to include doctors, all healthcare workers, and everyone deemed essential in this troubled time. 

THE GARDEN: Once your last frost data has passed, warm season crops can be planted. When the ground temperatures reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit, it is safe to begin planting Okra, Pumpkin, Sweet Potatoes, Eggplant, Peppers, Peanuts, Watermelon, Cow Peas, Black-eyed Peas, Crowder Peas, Butter Peas and Butter Beans. Trim up hedges and shrubs to shape and tighten them with new growth. Most flowering shrubs will respond to a light trimming at this time of year. Don’t trim away too many of the emerging buds or you won’t have as many flowers. 

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (20,21,22); weeding and stirring the soil (23,24, 27,28);  planting above-ground crops (25,26); harvesting all crops (8,9); best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,30,32); slaughtering and butchering meat (22,23,24,25,26,27,28); transplanting (22,23,24,25,26,27,28); the weaning of small animals and livestock (8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17); harvest and store grains (8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17). 

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING:

"Perseverance often provides more rewards than that lucky break we’re always hoping for”.

“When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant
 I could not stand to have the old man around.
 But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished
 how much he had learned in 7 years”

Mark Twain (1836-1875)

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Periods of showers, heavy rain, late (1,2,3,4,5,6)turning fair and warm (7,8,9,10). STORMS (11,12) turning fair and warm again (13,14,15,16,17,18,19). More STORMS (20,21) turning once again, fair and warm (22,23); periods of STORMS, heavy rain, late (24,25,26,27,2,8,29,30.

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees possible tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region from the 26th to the 29th of June.

FULL MOON: June’s FULL MOON will occur on Friday, June 5th. Monday, June 17th. It has been called STRAWBERRY MOON because the first strawberries of the season become ripe for the picking (and for the eating!) during this month. And because roses start to show their gorgeous blooms at the beginning of the month, it has also been called ROSE MOON.

SPECIAL NOTES: Summer officially starts with the Summer Solstice that occurs on Saturday, 20th but with an unprecedented health crisis dictating that we maintain social distancing and wear face masks, it will be different summer this year. With many graduations cancelled due the Covid-19 pandemic, we must do what we can to honor our favorite students when he or she graduates from high school or college. This is a major milestone and cannot pass without the recognition that it is due. Mark the achievement with a special event or memorable gift (like a copy of this year’s Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack to mark the occasion!).

HOLIDAYS: On Sunday, June 14th, proudly display ‘Old Glory’! Be sure to do it properly and check the various ways how to do so at www.ushistory.org/betsy/more/displayonly.htm. Father’s Day is Sunday, June 21st . Do something really nice for the guy who a) taught you how to ride a two-wheeler b) videotaped every sporting event or recital you were in, c) helped you finance that new (fill in the blank), or d) All of the above!

THE GARDEN: It’s not too late to start warm-season crops such as corn, beans, tomatoes, squash, peppers, and eggplant. Plant or sow summer annuals such as nasturtiums, vinca, verbena, geraniums, phlox, marigolds, lobelia, impatiens, cosmos, sunflowers, zinnias, and alyssum. Feed annuals and remove spent flowers to promote another round of flowers. Feed roses after each bloom cycle, water regularly, and remove any spent flowers. Additional pruning may be required in June of fast-growing plants, such as juniper, privet and yew. This will help promote new growth and also maintain a desirable shape during the growing season.

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (16,17,18); weeding and stirring the soil (19,20); planting above-ground crops (21,22); harvesting all crops (5,6); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (21,22,23,24,25,26,27); transplanting (21,22,23,24,25,26,27); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13); harvesting and storing grains (13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20).

JOHN GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING

“Every person has two educations-one from others, and one more important which he gives himself”

"I realize that patriotism is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone”

Edith Cavell (1865-1915)

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Fair and warm (1,2,3,4,5)with STORMS 6,7,8); fair and very warm (9,10,11,12)with periods of STORMS (13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22). Hazy, hot and humid (23,24,25,26) with Atlantic hurricane, heavy rain (27,28,29) turning hazy, hot, and humid again (30,31).  

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region in the month of July.  

FULL MOON: July’s Full Moon will occur on July 4th. Native Americans called it THUNDER MOON due to the high number of thunderstorms during the month, some quite severe in many areas, that occur during the month. It has also been called BUCK MOON given the rapid growth of antlers on young bucks in July and HAY MOON and RIPE CORN MOON since both hay tends to ripen and because of the appearance of young corn on the stalks. 

SPECIAL NOTES: The ‘Dog Days of Summer’ begin on Friday, July 3rd and will continue into mid-August. 

HOLIDAYS: Independence Day falls on Saturday, July 4th in 2020. Celebrate safely and enjoy the holiday while remaining cautious during this pandemic. If spending time outdoors, use plenty of sunscreen, applying it frequently to yourself and the kids, especially if swimming or engaging in strenuous activities like sports or hiking.  

THE GARDEN: Be sure that all tall annuals and perennials are securely staked so that they will remain upright during the afternoon thunderstorms that are so common for this time of year. During the dry summer months, remember to mow the lawn when it is high and mow less often. Taller grass withstands drought better because its blades shade the soil. Allow roses to rest in July and August. Do not fertilize, but continue spraying, and give them a light pruning in July to encourage new fall growth. Repot houseplants that have been kept outdoors if roots start to crowd their containers. If you have to divide plants, give them a chance to recover from the disruption to their root system by keeping them in the shade for at least a week. 

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (14,15); weeding and stirring the soil (21,22); planting above-ground crops (1,27,28); harvesting all crops (2,3,6,7,8); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13, 27,28,29,30,31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (20,21,22,23,24,25,26); transplanting (20,21,22,23,24,25,26); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,29,30,31); harvesting and storing grains (12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19). 

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING 

“Do not regard liberty and freedom so lightly that you forget its value and take it for granted.”

“What dreadful hot weather we have! 
It keeps me in a continual state of inelegance”

                                             Jane Austen (1775-1817)  

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Hazy, hot, and humid (1,2,3) with brief periods of STORMS (4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12). Remnants of Golf hurricane, heavy rain (13,14,15) turning hot and humid (16,17,18); periods of STORMS, heavy rain in the southern part of the region 19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26)ending the month with fair but hot temperatures (27,28,29,30,31).   

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in August. 

FULL MOON: August’s full moon will occur on August 3rd. Because of the many fruits and vegetables that ripen during the month, many Native American tribes called it FRUIT MOON or referred to as RIPE MOON. And since August 11th marks the end of the ‘Dog Days of Summer’, it has also been called DOG MOON as well. 

SPECIAL NOTES: The 225th edition of J. Gruber’s Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack will be on newsstands and at popular retailers throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region in September but you will be able to order the 2021 issue of The Almanack online very soon! Watch for the coming announcement when The Almanack can be ordered online, order your copy, and have it delivered to your front door soon after Labor Day! Check out www.almanack.com/order and consider taking advantage of our popular 3-year subscription, which offers guaranteed delivery of The Almanack for the next three years with no increase in price for only $23.50! Or you can register as a Friend of the Almanack (FOTA) and receive a hard copy of the current edition, have immediate access to the digital version of The Almanack (and to next year’s digital edition, too!), access to past digital editions, the monthly newsletter, all for the low price of only $15. All great deal for a great almanac! 

HOLIDAYS: Where did the Summer go? Labor Day is right around the corner so enjoy the summer while it lasts! If planning outdoor activities such as going to the beach, boating, or in your own backyard, barbequing on the grill, be sure to include plenty of water and sun screen! 

THE GARDEN: August is not too late to sow Portulaca (moss rose). They will bloom in about three weeks from seed. If you choose to water your lawn, do so only when wilted or discolored. Think about potting herbs you plan to move indoors for the winter. Don’t move them in just yet but get them accustomed to their containers early. Rosemary, thyme, and tarragon are the best candidates for this. To encourage more flowers, azaleas should be trimmed after they bloom in the spring and before the end of August. Stop feeding trees and shrubs after mid-August. You don’t want to promote new growth that will not have time to fully mature before winter sets in. 

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (10,11,12); weeding and stirring the soil (17,18); planting above-ground crops (23,24,25); harvesting all crops (3,4); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,26,27,28,29,30,31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (1,2,3,4,5,6,30,31); transplanting (18,18,20,21,22,23,24); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,26,27,28,29,30,31); harvesting and storing grains (11,12,13,14,5,16,17). 

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING 

“Congratulating oneself is not the best evidence of success”

"Happy we who can bask in this warm September sun, which illumines
   all creatures, as well when they rest as when they toil, not without 
    a feeling of gratitude; whose life is as blameless, how blameworthy
 soever it may be, on the Lord’s Mona-day as on his Suna-day."
                                                         Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)

 
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: STORMS, cooler (1,2) turning fair and warm (3,4,5); periods of STORMS (6,7,8,9,10,11,12) again, turning fair and quite warmer (13,14,15,16) with periods of STORMS (17,18,19,20,21,22,23). Fair and cooler (24,25) with yet more STORMS (26,27) turning fir and mild (28,29,30)

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the month of September.

FULL MOON: September’s Full Moon has been famously-known as the HARVEST MOON. It is the Full Moon that falls closest to the Autumnal Equinox. During this time, the moon would rise soon after the sun would set on several successive days, giving the farmer a few extra hours of ‘light’ and more time to finish up their daily chores. This year, the Autumnal Equinox will occur on Tuesday, September 22nd and signals the beginning of Autumn. The Full Moon closest to that date will occur on Thursday, October 1st and is therefore, the HARVEST MOON of 2020.  

SPECIAL NOTES: The 2021 Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack will be on newsstands and at popular retailers throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region the week of September 7th! A complete list of retail locations, go to www.almanack.com/where-to-buy-us but you can save some time by going to www.almanack.com/order, ordering your copy today, and have it delivered right to your front door! Consider taking advantage of our very popular 3-year subscription. It guarantees no price increase and will deliver The Almanack with no charge for shipping for the next 3 years. Or become a Friend of The Almanack (FOTA), get immediate access to our new on-line digital version as well as THE NEXT EDITION, receive a hardcopy of the current edition, access to past digital editions, and so much more! Great deals for a great almanac!

HOLIDAYS: Labor Day falls on the first Monday of the month which is September 7th in 2020. We must always remember those who lost their lives on September 11th, 2001 and to also honor all of the brave first-responders as well. These heroes ran into danger, some sacrificing their lives trying to minimize the loss of life and those who suffer to this day with long-term life-threatening health effects. Citizenship Day is observed on Thursday, September 17th and Rosh Hashanah begins on Friday, September 18th at sunset.    

THE GARDEN: Make a long-range plan to gradually convert your current landscape to the one you desire. Don’t forget to consider what your flower garden might need. Plant spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips 6 to 8 weeks before the first frost. Don't pull out any ornamental plantings until you have the time and resources to replace them. Start taking cuttings of your annual plants to bring indoors and carry through the winter. Geranium, coleus, fuschia, and other plants do best when stem cuttings are rooted and kept in pots indoors through the winter. Be sure to place pots where they receive plenty of light. Bring summer vacationing houseplants back indoors while the windows are still open. Inspect every plant very closely for any hitchhiking pests! Don't allow leaves to accumulate on the lawn. Rake them up regularly, and store in a pile for use as mulch in your garden next summer. If leaves accumulate on your lawn and become matted down by rain, they may kill the grass.

THE FARM: Best days for planting root crops (6,7,8); weeding and stirring the soil (14,15); planting above-ground crops (20,21); harvesting all crops (4,5); best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10, 24,25,26,27,28,29,30); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (17,18,19,20,21,22); transplanting (17,18,19,20,21,22); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (1,2,3,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30); the harvesting and storing of grains (10,11,12,13,14,15,16).

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING:  “If you are going to do a good thing, do it now; if you are going to do a mean thing, wait until tomorrow”

"Listen! the wind is rising, and the air is wild with leaves,

 we have had our summer evenings, now for October eves!”                                                                           Humbert Wolfe (1885-1940)

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Occasional showers, breezy (1,2,3) turning cooler and windy (4,5); warm and dry (6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14) with heavy rain, STORMS, and wind (15,16,17,18). Cooler, brisk, frost/freeze west (19,20) turning warm and dry (21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29; heavy rain, STORMS, wind (30,31).

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity for the Mid-Atlantic Region in the month of October. 

FULL MOON: October has two FULL MOON to occur during the month. The first, occurring on Thursday, October 1st was recognized last month as the HARVEST MOON of 2020 (the full moon falling closest to the Autumnal Equinox). The second to occur is the HUNTER’S MOON of 2020. Named because of the extra light it provided many Native Americans to extend their hunt for food into the early evening, it will occur on Saturday, October 31st. It was also referred to as MOON OF FALLING LEAVES and YELLOW LEAF MOON by the Cree Tribe because many of the trees lose the last of their leaves during the month and because of the many leaves turning that color during October.  

HOLIDAYS: Columbus Day is observed on Monday, October 12th, United Nations Day is celebrated on Saturday, the 24th, and Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31st.  

SPECIAL NOTES: Remember…..get your flu shots early this year! And follow current guidelines for protecting yourself, your family and loved ones as well as others we may encounter throughout our day. October is Fire Prevention Month. In 1922, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) named the second week of October Fire Prevention Week in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. Today, we celebrate Fire Prevention Week and Month by raising fire safety awareness and educating families, students and communities across the United States. During this month, fire departments provide education to their communities, and encourage parents and loved ones to practice fire safety and whole home safety. Have an evacuation plan ready with your family and check smoke detector batteries often.  

THE GARDEN: There is still time left to plant perennial seeds and bulbs! With a little effort at Fall planting time, you will speed the timing of that first new growth by as much as a month. During the fall months, after soil temperature drops below 60°F., the bulbs of spring flowering Tulips, Daffodils, Hyacinths, Siberian Squill, Dwarf Irises, Anemone, and Crocus should be planted. Most spring flowering bulbs should be in the ground by the early part of this month, with the exception of Tulips which can be planted up until early November. Select healthy, disease free bulbs. Add bone meal or bulb fertilizer into the planting hole, as you prepare the soil. One last effort at weeding will help to improve the appearance of your garden throughout the winter. Any weed that you can eliminate from the garden this fall will possibly prevent thousands of weed seeds from sprouting in the garden next spring!  

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (4,5,15,16); weeding and stirring the soil (11,12); planting above-ground crops (17,18); harvesting all crops (1,2,3); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10, 23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (16,17,18,19,20,21,22); transplanting (16,17,18,19,20,21,22); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27); harvesting and storing grains (9,10,11,12,13,14,15).   

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING  

“Be fair in the criticism of others, but more so in that of yourself.”

"The thankful receiver bears a plentiful harvest."

William Blake (1787-1827) 

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Showers, breezy, cool, frost/freeze in central region (1). Warmer an dry (2,3,4,5,6,7) with periods of rain (8,9,10,11); dry and mild (12,13)with more rain and wet snow, turning colder, frost/freeze in the east (14,15,16). Sunny and chilly (17,18,19,20,21), turning dry and milder (22,23,24,25,26,27,28). Rain, windy with snow showers in the west (29,30).

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of November.

FULL MOON: The FULL MOON in November will occur on Monday, November 30th. Due to the colder days and heavy frosts during the month, all of the leaves have fallen and most of the grasses have all died off and thus, has been referred to as FALLING LEAF MOON and DYING GRASS MOON.  And because of the high winds sweeping through many regions this time of year, it was called BIG WIND MOON. 

SPECIAL NOTES: Daylight Savings ends for 2020 on Sunday, November 1st so be sure to “fall back’ an hour at 2AM And be sure to check out Almanack Weather Prognosticator, Chad Merrill’s article in the 2021 edition of The Almanack, where he presents the case of whether to continue the practice, offering the pro and cons of this annual 

HOLIDAYS: The 2020 elections will be held on Tuesday, November 3rd and this year, it will be for The President of The United States. Now more than ever, your vote is needed to help determine the course of America for the next 4 years. If voting by mail, complete your ballot immediately upon receipt and place the properly-completed ballot into a legitimate drop box in your area or mail as early as possible. Wednesday, November 11th is Veteran’s Day. Remember to honor our military service branches and those have served and with their service, continue to protect us today. Thanksgiving is celebrated on Thursday, November 26th. Join with family and friends in reflecting on of things we have t be thankful for and try to carry that throughout the holiday season. And though not officially recognized as a holiday, Saturday, November 10th is the great civil rights leader, Martin Luther King’s actual birthday. 

THE GARDEN: Even though lawns rest in winter, they still need all the winter sunlight they can get so don’t put away the rake until all of the leaves and pine needles have fallen and you can remove them. Keep mowing if your lawn is still growing. If you do have to do that one last mow, don’t bag those grass clippings. Instead, recycle them back onto the lawn. Contrary to what you might have heard, clippings will not become thatch (a spongy layer found between grass blades and roots). Keep watering until the ground temperature reaches 40 degrees F. Now is the time to start those forced bulbs that were placed in a cool area in August or September. 

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (1,12,13); weeding and stirring the soil (7,8,9); planting above-ground crops (22,23,24); harvesting all crops (25,26); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30; the slaughtering and butchering of meat (15,16,17,18,19,20; transplanting (15,16,17,18,19,20); the weaning of small animals and livestock (16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24)); the harvesting and storing grains (19,20,21,22,23,24,25). 

JOHN GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING

“There is more to be learned by listening closely and keeping an open mind, even though you often may not agree with the speaker.”

”I heard the bells of Christmas Day; old familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the word repeat of peace on earth, good will to men!”…..Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1802-1882)

 MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Breezy, turning milder (1,2,3,4); showers turning breezy again (5,6). Fair, colder (7,8,9) with more showers, wet snow, west (10,11,12); colder windy (13,14,15) turning fair and milder(16,17,18,19,20). More rain and wet snow, west (21,22,23) turning fair and windy, at first (24,25); yet more rain, ice, and wet snow, west (26,27,28) ; fair and colder (29,30,31).    

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of December.

FULL MOON: The FULL MOON for December occurs on Tuesday, December 29th. Many Native Americans referred to December’s FULL MOON as COLD MOON (for obvious reasons!). Other tribes called it ICE-FORMING MOON and BEAVER MOON because lakes and ponds begin to ice over and in many areas, beavers are scurrying to finish building their dams and lodges before the winter sets in for good.

SPECIAL NOTES: Winter Solstice will occur on Monday, December 21st. The Hagerstown Town & Country Almanack wishes everyone the happiest of holidays and again, pledges to its loyal readers (and followers on social media!) to continue to inform, inspire, and entertain as it has done for 225 years! Remember that The Almanack makes a great gift that keeps giving throughout the year! Go to www.almanack.com/order, order a holiday copy or two (or three or four!), and this year, consider including a nifty THE ALMANACK KNOWS WHICH WAY THE WIND BLOWS! sweatshirt or tee under the tree. Go to www.bonfire.com/the-almanack-knows, check out the styles and colors, and order one today.

HOLIDAYS: Hanukah begins at sunset on Friday, December 11th, Christmas is celebrated on Friday, December 25th, and Kwanzaa begins on Saturday, December 26th. Enjoy family and friends during these festive times and keep that joyful and giving spirit alive throughout the coming year. New Year’s Eve falls on Thursday, December 31st. Make plans to attend a First Night Celebration and enjoy a safe, family-oriented evening of fun, food, and entertainment on the very first night of the year. Look online at www.firstnight.com/cities to find a celebration nearest you.

THE GARDEN: Consider a garden shop gift card or garden tool for the gardener in your life. Books on their favorite type of plants or a gift card to a popular gardening catalog are welcome gifts (and so would The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack!). Turn your gardening attentions to those houseplants (and other plants you have moved inside for the winter). Remember that warmer indoor temperatures can quickly dry out most plants and they will need a bit more than usual.

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (9,10); weeding and stirring the soil (5,6); planting above-ground crops (2,3,4); harvesting all crops (22,23); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (14,15,16,17,18,19,20); transplanting (14,15,16,17,18,19,20); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21); harvesting and storing grains (7,8,9,10,11,12,13).

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING

“The thought that goes into the giving of a gift to a friend or loved one is so much more important than the value of the gift itself”

“Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed.”…..Cavett Robert (1907-1997)

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Dry, turning mild (1,2,3,4,5) with rain and wintery mix (6,7,8,9,10); windy , colder with snow showers in the western part of the region ((11,12). Fair and milder (13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20) with light snow and wintery mix (21,22,23,24,25); windy, milder (26,27,28,29) remaining windy and much colder with snow showers in the west.

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of January.

FULL MOON: The first FULL MOON of 2021 will occur on Thursday, January 28th. It has been called HUNGER MOON by many Native American tribes because of the scarcity of game at this time of year. Other tribes called it WOLF MOON because of the increased boldness of wolf packs venturing closure and closer to their camps looking for food.

SPECIAL NOTES: The 2021 Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack is its 225th edition. It has been continuously published since its first appearance in 1797and while it is the second oldest almanac in the United States, it is the ONLY almanac in America that is still published by heirs of its founder, John Gruber. Both he and his partner and son-in-law, Daniel May, would be proud to see their almanac continuing to provide even more refined weather forecasts and astronomical data vital to agricultural success in the region. It is our commitment to continue improving our look, the accuracy of our weather forecasts, and offering useful information and inspiration to help one survive in today’s world. In that way, The Hagerstown Town & Country Almanack will earn its place in the 21st Century as a useful and cherished reference as it has been in centuries past. 

HOLIDAYS: New Year’s Day falls on Friday, January 1st. Martin Luther King, Jr., famed civil rights activist leader, was born on January 15, 1929. His birthday is celebrated on the third Monday of the month. In 2021, that is Monday, January 18th. This great leader must be remembered on this day for the great social changes he brought about in this country and for the ultimate sacrifice he made pursuing unity and racial harmony which still eludes us today. 

THE GARDEN: Be sure to shake or brush off heavy snow from the branches of your evergreens and shrubs. The light fluffy snow poses no real threat, but if it should become wet and frozen, the weight dramatically increases. Branches are more brittle when the plants are dormant, and the weight of the snow may snap them off. Take care of our feathered friends who will need a reliable supply of water and food during winter. Once you start feeding them, they'll keep returning for more, so be prepared to continue providing ample amounts of both until natural water supplies and food becomes available later in the Spring. 

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (5,6); weeding and stirring the soil (1,2,3,4); planting above-ground crops (16,17); harvesting all crops (9,10,11); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (13,14,15,16,17,18,19); transplanting (13,14,15,16,17,18,19); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (9,10,11,12,13,14,5,16,17); harvesting and storing grains (6,7,8,9,10,11,12), 

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING 

“The next twelve months offer a world of promise; it all depends on each of us and how much we are willing to give of ourselves to help make it a better world”