As the New Year approaches and we look back upon local history, we're reminded that the good old days weren't always that good, and the more things change, the more they remain the same:

A Dec. 30, 1971, article in the now-defunct Democratic Advocate noted that, "Unknown burglars broke into the J.C. Penny department store over the weekend, ransacked the offices, and stole a $1.59 flashlight from the basement work table, the Westminster city police reported.

"The city police reported that sometime Sunday evening or early Monday morning the burglar or burglars climbed onto the roof of the store, pried open a trap door and entered the second floor.

"Once inside, the burglars ransacked the offices and attempted, unsuccessfully, to open the safe, the police said. The flashlight was the only item the police reported missing."

The same newspaper reported on Jan. 3, 1873, that "Christmas masqueraders were out in full force. If they would behave with more propriety, they would be treated better, but as it is they seem to take the occasion for showing how rudely they can misbehave."

The newspaper also advised on Dec. 26, 1896, that "Boys and youths should remember that the pavements in front of the churches and the vestibules ... should not be used as loafing places on Sundays or Sunday nights.

"Either go in, or go away.

"Interruption to the exercises will make offenders liable to arrest and punishment. Last Sunday evening there were crowds in front of both the Methodist Churches, and their conduct was disturbing to the worshippers."

And on Dec. 23, 1921, the same paper let known its feelings about petty thieves:

"Last week Pine Knob school near Eldersburg was robbed of its Victrola and a number of other valuable articles. This week the schoolhouse was entered again and the Near East Contribution stolen, consisting of clothes, fruits, etc.

"Thieves that will take articles belonging to starving and poorly clad people should be caught and sent to Russia in chains to live the fate of those human beings."

Now that's editorial comment.

And finally, here's another issue that also seems to remind us of today. On Dec. 27, 1973, the Carroll Record, also now defunct, ran a story that noted, "the snow and cold, plus the energy crisis, could spell trouble. Joe Tuck, at Tuck's Gulf in Union Bridge says he has 'Less gas this year than last to go along with a greater demand.'

"More specifically, Mr. Tuck is getting 4,000 gallons less a month. With the greater demand and shortages, prices have (naturally) gone up. But he is not benefiting from the increase.

"Maybe the oil companies are getting it, but he is not sure. Like everybody else, Mr. Tuck is frustrated but isn't sure who to blame."

When he's not wearing a New Year's party hat, Kevin Dayhoff may be reached at kevindayhoff@gmail.com, or visit him at www.westminstermarylandonline.net.

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