Currently viewing the tag: "Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show"

Thurmont Grange Honors Lewistown Fire Department

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Three years ago, plans were made to honor the Lewistown District Volunteer Fire Department’s 50th anniversary during the opening ceremony at The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, but those plans were put on hold when COVID forced the Community Show to be canceled. So, Thurmont Grange decided to honor Lewistown Fire Department on Monday, June 26, for their 53rd anniversary. Although three years late, it was still a wonderful occasion.

In attendance were several Lewistown officers and members, including current President Vicky Martin and founding President James Grimes.  The program began with a history of Lewistown given by Grange President Niki Eyler. 

In 1970, because of what was then considered a remote location in the county, Lewistown area residents made the decision that they needed a fire company of their own. So, Company 22, The Lewistown District Volunteer Fire Department, was formed to serve Lewistown, Utica, and Mountaindale. The first meeting was held on June 3, 1970, and founding officers President James Grimes, Vice President Donald Coyle, Secretary John Reburn, and Treasurer Richard Ellis were voted into office. There were approximately 20 founding members, including Russ Goodsell, Raymond Stull Jr, Bill Stull, and Bill Biddinger. By August of 1970, the newly formed company had purchased Engine 222 for $1,800. It was the first diesel engine in the county. 

James Grimes, who later would become mayor of Frederick, was instrumental in the early plans for the department, as well as Albert Powell, director of the State Fisheries in Lewistown; Donald Martin; John Reburn; and Jack Barber. Within a year, Lewistown had purchased a garage, owned by Jim Grimes, and moved into the building with Engine 222 & 223 and Tanker 22. They had a yard sale, a raffle, several suppers, and 50/50s under their belt.

Today, the fire department has approximately 80 members. It has six different apparatuses: Engine Tanker 224, Engine 221, Tanker 22, Brush 226, Utility 22, and Ambulance 229. The fire station is staffed by volunteers from the community and two paid employees of the county who are on duty 24/7.

Lewistown Volunteer Fire Department is vital to the safety and well-being of the surrounding communities. In 2022, Lewistown ran 164 fire calls and 640 EMS calls. Just last month alone, they went out on a total of 76 calls, 11 fire, and 65 EMS.

Thurmont Grange No. 409 thanked Lewistown for 53 years of volunteer service, and they were honored to recognize the fire department for all the volunteers do to protect and serve not only Lewistown but the surrounding communities.

Pictured from left are Vicky Martin (current Lewistown President), Jim Grimes (Founding Lewistown President), Rodman Myers (Community Show Committee President), and Niki Eyler (Thurmont Grange President).

Taste of Past Recipe

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by Maxine Troxell

Thanksgiving is coming up, so what can you serve for dessert other than traditional pumpkin pie? A number of years ago, I ran across this show-stopper cake recipe in Gold Metals’ State Fair recipe book.  I made it one year for the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, and it won Reserve Champion Cake. It takes a little effort, but it is well worth the time. 

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Cake

Ingredients

   2 ½ cups sifted cake flour

   2 teaspoons baking soda

   2 teaspoons baking powder

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

   1 teaspoon salt

2 cups sugar

                2 cups crushed vanilla wafers

   1 cup chopped pecans

   1 cup vegetable oil

   4 eggs

   1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin

½ cup caramel topping

1 cup pecan halves

Pumpkin candies, if desired

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour three round cake pans, 8 x 1½ inches. Mix cake flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt; set aside. Beat cookies, chopped pecans and butter in a large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed, scraping bowl frequently until crumbly. Divide among pans; press evenly on bottoms of pans.

Beat sugar, oil, eggs, and pumpkin in same bowl on medium speed 1 minute, scraping bowl constantly. Gradually add flour mixture into pumpkin mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. Pour over pecan mixture in pans; spread evenly.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.  Cool 10 minutes; remove from pans to a wire rack. Cool completely.

Frost with your favorite cream cheese or your favorite frosting.

Spread caramel topping over top edge of cake, allowing some to drizzle down sides. Arrange pecan halves and candies on top of cake. If you are using cream cheese frosting, you will need to store cake in the refrigerator.

Taste of the Past Recipe

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by Maxine Troxell

I think I have all of the recipe books containing the Pillsbury Bake-Off winners. This Oats and Honey Granola pie was one I made one year for the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show and won 1st prize.  This pie was a winner in the 2004 Pillsbury Bake-Off.  It’s fairly easy to make. You should try to make it for the upcoming Community Show!

Oats & Honey Granola Pie

Ingredients

½ cup butter

¾ cup corn syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla

½ cup chopped walnuts

¼ cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate baking chips

1½ cups packed brown sugar

1/8 teaspoon salt

3 eggs, lightly beaten

½ cup quick cooking or old-fashioned oats

4 Nature Valley Oats ‘n Honey crunchy granola bars (2 pouches from 8.9 oz. box)

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees.  Place pie crust in 9 inch pie plate.

In a large microwavable bowl, microwave butter on high 50-60 seconds until melted. 

Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup until blended.  Beat in salt, vanilla, and eggs. 

Stir crushed granola bars, walnuts, oats and baking chips into       brown sugar mixture.  Pour into crust-lined pan.

Bake 40 to 50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown. 

During the last 15 to 20 minutes of baking, cover crust edge with strips of foil to prevent excessive browning. 

Cool at least 30 minutes before serving.

Plans for 66th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show This September

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show committee met recently to begin planning the 66th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show. The show will be held at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road in Thurmont, on September 9-11. Officers elected at the meeting were: President—Rodman Myers, Vice President—Cheryl Lenhart, Secretary—Karen Myers. Committee members, representing the sponsoring organizations of the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, and the Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters are: Bob Valentine, Sue Keilholtz, Robert Wiles, David Harman, Niki Eyler, Ray Martin, Carol Long, Cathy Little, Chip Long, Bobby Myers, Denise Valentine, Amanda Dennis, Helen Troxell, Nancy Wine, Patty Johnston, Jim Barth, Kay Barth, Andrea Mannix, Amy Jo Poffenberger, Barry Burch, Daniel Myers, Dallas Hassel, Danny Whetzel, Eric Troxell, Jennifer Martin, Kolton Whetzel, Matthew Dellinger, and Tyler Wolf.  

Entry of exhibits will take place in the new gymnasium and agriculture department area on Thursday evening, September 8, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. (note the new start and end time), and on Friday, September 9, from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Commercial exhibits may be set up on Friday, September 9, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show opens to the public at 6:00 p.m.  

This year, the Friday night Opening Ceremonies Program will begin at 6:30 p.m. (note the new start time for program), with the community organizations flag ceremony, followed by the 2022-2023 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador announcement. The annual Baked Goods Auction will begin immediately following the program at approximately 7:30 p.m. The Grand Champion and Reserve Champion cakes, pies and breads will be sold at 8:00 p.m. 

On Saturday, September 10, the show is open from 9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.   Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep & Swine Fitting and Showing Contest, from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. in the agriculture center area. The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. outside at the front of the school, and prize money will be mailed to the winners by November 15, 2022. 

Entertainment events on Saturday, September 10, at both 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. in the auxiliary gym, will include a martial arts demonstration by the Thurmont Academy of Self Defense; at 2:00 p.m. in the auditorium, the Linda Elower Studio of Dance will have a performance; and at 6:00 p.m., Richard Troxell, Thurmont native and tenor soloist, will have a musical performance in the auditorium. All entertainment and events throughout the weekend are free.

The 48th Annual Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters Market Goat, Beef, Sheep & Swine Sale will be held on Saturday night, September 10, at 7:00 p.m. in the agriculture center area. All buyers are welcome to attend and purchase animals at the sale, which are exhibited by 4-H and FFA members.  

On both Saturday and Sunday, the petting zoo will be held in the agriculture area, and there will also be face painting and pony rides.

On Sunday, September 11, activities begin in the agriculture center area at 9:00 a.m. with the Dairy Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Cattle Show.   The Decorated Animal Contest will begin at 11:00 a.m., with prize money to be awarded to participants.

The 37th Annual Log Sawing Contest will begin at 12:30 p.m. in the agriculture center area, with categories consisting of two-person women’s team, men’s team, men and women’s team, and a children’s division.  

A Pedal Tractor Contest (for children ages 5-10) will be held at 12:00 p.m. in the agriculture center area tent. At 1:00 p.m. will be the 41st Annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest near the softball field.

Additional activities throughout the weekend include food trucks and food stands, the Thurmont Regional Public Library’s annual book sale, Quilt & Afghan Show, and Thurmont area historical photos by John Kinnaird.

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 11, from 3:00-5:30 p.m. (note the new deadline to pick up items). Winning exhibitor’s prize money will be mailed by November 15, 2022. 

If you would like to be a new advertiser in the Community Show’s booklet, please contact Rodman Myers at 301-271-2104 to obtain advertising information. Past advertisers should have recently received letters for this year’s advertisements, with a May 17, 2022 deadline. By early August, the Community Show booklets will be available in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg, and surrounding area businesses. New and all residents of our community are urged to enter exhibits (no entry fee) and be a part of the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, the largest community show in the State of Maryland. Departments include: Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing & Needlework, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Paintings & Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department, and Youth Department.  Please visit their website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow.webs.com.

The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters, the Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.

Taste of the past Recipe

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by Maxine Troxell

Spring is finally here, and Easter is just a couple of weeks away.  Time to dig out your recipes for your Easter dinner. One of my favorite dessert items is coconut cake. My Aunt Erma used to make the most delicious cakes. She had won a lot of prize ribbons for her cakes from the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show, Frederick County Fair, and other baking contests. Below is her recipe for her prize-winning coconut cake.

Coconut Layer Cake

Ingredients

3 cups sifted cake flour

1 ½ teaspoons salt

6 tablespoons sugar

1 ½ cups sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 teaspoons baking powder

5 egg whites

2/3 cup Crisco

1 1/3 cups milk

1 teaspoon coconut extract

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 

Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt, twice. Set aside. 

In a small bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. 

Add 6 tablespoons sugar, slowly, and beat until mixture stands in soft peaks. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream Crisco and add 1 ½ cups sugar, gradually.  Cream until light and fluffy. 

Add flour alternately with milk, a small amount at a time, beating well after each addition. 

Add beaten egg whites and flavorings. Beat about 1 minute.

Grease and flour three 8-inch, two 9-inch, or one 13×9-inch pan.  Pour in batter. 

Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes until cake springs back after touching.

Cool then frost with your favorite frosting and generously top with coconut. 

Catoctin Area FFA Alumni & Supporters Livestock Show & Sale

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The Catoctin Area FFA Alumni & Supporters Livestock Show & Sale for market goat, beef, sheep and swine will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021, at The Eyler Stables, located at 141 Emmitsburg Road in Thurmont, managed by Wolfe Agricultural Auctions. 

The Livestock Show will be held at 9:00 a.m., with awards presentation at 6:30 p.m. and the livestock sale beginning at 7:00 p.m. Please come out to the livestock show and sale and support our 4-H and FFA youth exhibitors.

On Sunday, September 12, the Dairy Goat & Dairy Cattle show will begin at 9:00 a.m., and the Decorated Animal Contest will be held at noon. 

The Log-Sawing Contest will also be held on Sunday, September 12, at 1:00 p.m., which will have women’s, men’s, and children’s divisions. There will be various food vendors available to purchase food on Saturday and Sunday.

Next year’s Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 9-11, 2022. Exhibits can include any item that has been made since the 2019 Community Show, except for baked products and any perishable items. 

“The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show has been bringing our Thurmont & Emmitsburg communities together since 1957. Please continue to support our local agriculture and area businesses who have advertised in our past Community Show booklets. We thank these organizations who sponsor our annual Community Show: Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin Area FFA Alumni & Supporters, Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board. Next year, we look forward to bringing back the largest Community Show in the State of Maryland.”

Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show’s 2021 Event Cancellation

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show announces its 2021 event cancellation. During the current pandemic situation, our concern is for the health and safety of our community, volunteers, attendees, exhibitors, and vendors, and all involved with our Community Show. An additional factor is the uncertainty of Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) facilities usage, which includes Catoctin High School, by outside user groups.     

All events related to the Community Show are canceled, except for the Catoctin Area FFA Alumni & Supporters Livestock Show & Sale for market goat, beef, sheep, and swine. All activities will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021, at The Eyler Stables (managed by Wolfe Agricultural Auctions), located at 141 Emmitsburg Road in Thurmont. 

The livestock show will be held at 9:00 a.m., with awards presentation at 6:30 p.m. and the livestock sale beginning at 7:00 p.m. On Sunday, September 12, the dairy goat and dairy cattle show will begin at 9:00 a.m., and the decorated animal contest will be held at noon. 

The log sawing contest will also be held on Sunday, September 12, at 1:00 p.m., which will have women’s, men’s and children’s divisions. 

For an application to exhibit animals—due by July 10—please email catoctinffaalumni@gmail.com. The application includes information about all the events for the weekend. 

The Community Show looks forward to seeing everyone at next year’s Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 9-11, 2022. Exhibits can include any item that has been made since the 2019 Community Show, except for baked products and any perishable items. 

“The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show has been bringing our Thurmont and Emmitsburg communities together since 1957.  Please continue to support our local agriculture and area businesses who have advertised in our past Community Show booklets. We thank these organizations who sponsor our annual Community Show: Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin Area FFA Alumni & Supporters, Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board. Next year, we look forward to bringing back the largest Community Show in the State of Maryland. Until then, everyone please stay safe and be well.” –Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show President C. Rodman Myers.

Plans for 64th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show committee met recently to begin planning the 64th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show.  The show will be held at Catoctin High School, located at 14745 Sabillasville Road in Thurmont, on September 11-13, 2020. Officers elected at the meeting were: President—Rodman Myers; Vice President—Robert Valentine; Secretary—Jennifer Martin. Other committee members are: Sue Keilholtz, Robert Wiles, David Harman, Niki Eyler, Cheryl Lenhart, Ray Martin, Carol Long, Chip Long, Sharon Graf, Bobby Myers, Denise Valentine, Amanda Dennis, Clifford Stewart, Helen Troxell, Cathy Little, Denny McGlaughlin, Karen Myers, Nancy Wine, Patty Johnston, Jim Barth, Kay Barth, Kenny Keeney, Jeff McAfee, Karen McAfee, Andrea Mannix, Amy Jo Poffenberger, Barry Burch, Daniel Myers, Sierra Weatherly, Justin Dewees, Kendall Abruzzese, Abby Kinnaird, and Danny Janc.  

On Friday night, the 2020-2021 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. This year’s program will begin at 6:45 p.m. (note new start time for program) and will honor the 50th anniversary of Lewistown Fire Company.  The baked goods auction will begin immediately following the program, and the grand champion cake, pie, and bread will be sold at 9:00 p.m. 

Entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 10, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. (note new start and ending time for entering exhibits), and on Friday, September 11, from 8:30-11:30 a.m., in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area. Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 11, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show will open to the public at 6:00 p.m. 

On Saturday, September 12, the show opens at 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.  Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep and Swine Fitting & Showing Contest, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Ag Center at the school. The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. outside the front of the school. The petting zoo, farm animals, and pony rides will also be held on Saturday and Sunday.

The Thurmont Grange will serve their turkey and country ham dinner in the school cafeteria, from 3:00-6:30 p.m. on Saturday night (note new time).  Entertainment for Saturday and Sunday will be announced at a later date.  There will be no admission charged for the entertainment.

The 46th Annual Catoctin FFA Alumni Beef, Sheep & Swine sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night. Activities begin on Sunday, September 13, at 9:00 a.m., with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show. 

At 12:00 p.m., the Catoctin FFA Alumni Chicken Bar-B-Que will be held in the cafeteria. The Decorated Animal Contest will begin at 12:00 p.m. 

The Log Sawing Contest will begin at 12:30 p.m. under the show tent in the Ag Center area, with categories consisting of women’s team, men’s team, men and women’s team, and a children’s division.

A Pedal Tractor Contest for kids will be held on Sunday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. in the Ag Center area, and the 41st Annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m.

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 13, from 3:00-5:30 p.m.  Please note the new deadline to pick up items.

If you would like to be a new advertiser in our show booklet, please contact Rodman Myers at 301-271-2104 to obtain advertising information or via email at thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow@gmail.com. Past advertisers should have recently received letters for advertisements for this year. The community show booklets can be found in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg, and surrounding area businesses in late July or early August. New residents of the community are urged to enter and be a part of the Community Show, the largest in the State of Maryland.

There will be changes to some departments. Departments include: Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing & Needlework, Flowers & Plants, Arts, Paintings & Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department and Youth Department. There is no entry fee. Please visit its website for updated information at  www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow.webs.com. 

The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, the Maryland State Grange and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.

Note: With the rapidly changing events related to COVID-19, please look for updates regarding the Community Show being held in September.

Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show Donates to Local Food Banks

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The 63rd Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show continues to give back to our local communities by making a $575 donation to each of the Thurmont and Emmitsburg Food Banks. 

These donations were made possible by contributions from the following areas of the Community Show: the Silver Offering, a free-will collection taken during the show, and the sale of both the Youth and Junior Department Champion Cakes during the annual Baked Goods Auction. 

This year, the Youth Department’s Champion Cake was a Carrot Cake baked by Jessica Martin of Thurmont, which was purchased by Thurmont’s Mountain Gate Family Restaurant for $800. The Youth Department is for ages 11-18.  

The Junior Department’s Champion Cake was a Sour Cream Pound Cake baked by Madison Ott of Thurmont and purchased by John and Maggie Doll, also of Thurmont, for $225. The Junior Department is for ages 10 and under.

The Community Show committee, officers, and countless volunteers thank all the baked goods buyers and everyone who contributed to the Silver Offering. The generosity of the Community Show’s attendees, the local businesses, and the citizens make these donations possible to both the Thurmont and Emmitsburg Food Banks.  

Pictured from left are John and Nancy Wine, food bank volunteers and Thurmont Grange members; Jessica Martin, Youth Dept. Champion Cake baker; Harold Bollinger, food bank volunteer; Pastor Sally Joyner Giffin, food bank coordinator; Laura Robeson, food bank volunteer; Sue Keilholtz, Community Show Youth Dept. chairperson; Rodman Myers, Community  Show committee president; Stephanie Ott, Community Show Junior Dept. chairperson; and Owen Ott (representing his sister, Madison Ott), Junior Dept. Champion Cake baker. 

Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show’s Pet Show

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road in Thurmont, on September 6-8, 2019. 

On September 7,  the annual Pet Show’s registration begins at 10:00 a.m. on the front lawn of the school. The Pet Show will begin at 10:30 a.m. Entries will be accepted from any person in the Catoctin High School feeder area. All pets must be handled by their owners. 

New this year will be the addition of premium money for winners in each class: 1st —$5.00; 2nd—$4.50 ; 3rd—$4.00. Premium checks will be mailed to exhibitors by November 15. Champion and Reserve Champion awards will be selected from the first-place winners of all 12 classes. There is only one entry per person in each class, and you may enter as many classes as you wish. 

Pet Show Classes: Class 1—Cat with Prettiest Eyes; Class 2—Cat with Longest Whiskers; Class 3—Cutest Cat; Class 4—Best Trained Pet; Class 5—Dog with Waggiest Tail; Class 6—Prettiest Dog (25 lbs. and under); Class 7—Prettiest Dog (26 lbs. and over); Class 8—Best Costumed Pet; Class 9—Pet with Most Spots; Class 10—Largest Pet (by height); Class 11—Most Unusual Pet; Class 12—Smallest Pet.

Additional Important Pet Show Information: An ant is not a pet, animals are not allowed in the school, and please bring your own lawn chairs to enjoy watching the Pet Show.   

Before the Pet Show begins, Thurmont Police Department’s Cpl. Tim Duhan will give a K-9 demonstration with the department’s police dog, Majo.

The Community Show’s admission and parking are free. Please stop by the hospitality booth at the high school’s entrance and sign up for door prizes, which will be drawn each evening. Also, a silver offering will be received to benefit the Thurmont and Emmitsburg Food Banks.  

Entertainment and Events Featured at 2019 Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road in Thurmont, on September 6-8, 2019. 

Entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 5, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., and on Friday, September 6, from 8:30-11:30 a.m., in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area. The show will open to the public at 6:00 p.m. 

On Friday night at 7:00 p.m., the 2019-2020 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. This year’s program will honor the 100th anniversary of the Edwin C. Creeger, Jr. American Legion Post 168 of Thurmont and Francis X. Elder American Legion Post 121 of Emmitsburg, and also the 50th anniversary of the Seton Center in Emmitsburg. 

The American Legion organization was founded in 1919 by veterans returning from Europe after World War I, and was later chartered as an official American patriotic society to carry on the tradition to support veterans, families, and community. The Legion continues to volunteer in patriotic service of mutual help to our veterans and has touched virtually every facet of American life; and, to this day, they carry on the objective to serve the community, state, and nation.  There will be six persons from the American and Emmitsburg Legion honored during the Friday night program.

The Seton Center provides emergency assistance with rent and utilities; financial literacy education; job search and support; case management; information and referrals; access to dental health care; life skills workshops; and Getting Ahead in a Just-Getting-By World program, which teaches people self-sufficiency, finance and budgeting, and how to create a sustainable way out of poverty. The Seton Family Store is very popular, with a selection of quality items; the support of the Family Store helps the outreach programs operate. Seton Center relies on the generosity of donors and funds from the store to continue helping its neighbors in need. There will be three persons honored from the Seton Center during the Friday night program.

The Linda Elower Studio of Dance will also be honored for its 50th anniversary during its program on Saturday afternoon.

The baked goods auction will begin immediately following the program and the grand champion cake, pie, and bread will be sold at 9:00 p.m. 

On Saturday, September 7, the show opens at 9:00 a.m. Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep and Swine Fitting & Showing Contest, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Ag Center at the school. The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. outside the front of the school. The petting zoo, farm animals, and pony rides will also be held on Saturday and Sunday. The Thurmont Grange will serve its roast turkey and country ham dinner in the school cafeteria, from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Saturday night. Prices are $14.00 for adults and $15.00 for carryout.

The Linda Elower Studio of Dance will feature entertainment on Saturday, beginning at 1:00 p.m. The Thurmont Gateway Spires Brass Ensemble will perform in the auditorium at 7:00 p.m., and Richard Lee Troxell will perform at 8:00 p.m. in the auditorium. There will be no admission charged for the entertainment.

The 45th Annual Catoctin FFA Alumni Beef, Sheep & Swine Sale will begin at 6:30 p.m. for exhibitor awards and the sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night. 

Activities begin on Sunday, September 8, at 9:00 a.m. with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show. The Decorated Animal Contest will begin at noon. 

At noon, the Catoctin FFA Alumni Chicken Bar-B-Que will be held in the cafeteria. Prices are $10.00 for adults and $11.00 for carryout.

The Log Sawing Contest will begin at 12:30 p.m., under the show tent in the Ag Center area, with categories consisting of women’s team, men’s team, men and women’s team, and a children’s division.

          A Peddle Tractor Contest for kids will be held on Sunday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. in the Ag Center area; the 40th Annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. The Catoctin Mountain Boys will provide free musical entertainment from 1:00-3:00 p.m. in the auditorium.

Exhibits must be removed on September 8, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. Visit the website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow.webs.com. The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, the Maryland State Grange and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.

Catoctin High School’s 50th Anniversary Celebration Begins

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Catoctin High School (CHS) has formed a 50th anniversary planning committee. The committee members are looking for memorabilia from the last fifty years that can be photographed, scanned, and/or displayed in the school for the 2018-2019 school year. The lobby will be “rejuvenated” this summer to display items from each decade. This is a GREAT opportunity to share your fondest memories from your high school years with the current generation!

In addition to the above, families where multiple generations have graduated from CHS, visit https://sites.google.com/fcps.org/catoctin50 to find out how to contribute to this celebration this year!

The Student Government Association of Catoctin High School will present several activities to celebrate the anniversary. Look for a 50th anniversary table and display during the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show in September 2018. On October 5, 2018, a reception will be held for alumni in the school’s cafeteria before the CHS Homecoming football game. On this evening, CHS alumni will receive student-priced admission to the Homecoming game.

The CHS Sports Boosters will also host activities to commemorate the anniversary. Stay tuned for details about these and more upcoming events and activities that commemorate the school’s anniversary.

The Area’s Best on Display at the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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James Rada, Jr
McKenzie Forrest of Thurmont is only ten years old, but she is a veteran at showing animals. This was her second year showing rabbits at the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show.

“I like rabbits because they’re nice and you get to hold them,” grinned McKenzie.

She also likes the competition of preparing the rabbits for the show and the hopes of winning a blue ribbon.

For sixty-one years, the Thurmont and Emmitsburg Community Show has been highlighting the role of agriculture in Northern Frederick County and spotlighting the talents of area residents. This year’s show was held at Catoctin High School on September 8-10. More than $13,000 in prizes was awarded to the hundreds of exhibitors.

The show started with the 42nd annual opening ceremony, where many volunteers from over thirty community organizations carried their flags in a procession to begin the ceremony.

Superintendent of Frederick County Public Schools Dr. Teresa Alban, was the guest speaker. She shared her honor for being invited to the show, “There’s always something about the show that inspires me. I value all of the traditions, but each year, something happens or someone says something that really resonates and connects with what I have to say.” She gave recognition to the many facets of community support that the Community Show inspires, referencing patriotism, honor, support, recognition, care, service, leadership, and education.

She concluded her speech by suggesting that the legacy shared from the past is inspiring the future in the Community Show. The legacy of the community can be exemplified at Catoctin High School, where the school has been named as the Maryland State Character Education School. Not only did they win it this year, but it was the fifth time Catoctin High School has received that recognition.

Stacie Brown Hobbs announced Catoctin’s FFA Ambassador, Stephanie Moreland. To conclude the opening ceremonies, the fiftieth anniversary of two community organizations were recognized: WTHU Radio Station and St. John’s Christian Preschool.

In the show ring, Connie Palmer was a judge for some of the categories. She comes up from Frederick each year to be a part of it and loves it.

“It’s a fantastic show,” Palmer said. “It’s one of the best in the State of Maryland.”

The weekend’s events featured livestock auctions, a petting zoo, music, pony rides, pet show, horseshoe pitching contest, log sawing contest, and more.

Russell Kaas used to exhibit products he grew in the community, and now his children are continuing the tradition and exhibiting their own items. He’s not sure that they will become farmers, but he said, “It gives them something to think about when they try to figure out what they want to do.” Kaas compares the Community Show to the Great Frederick Fair, but without the rides.

“We do have a fair atmosphere because it’s fun,” Rodman Myers said.

Myers expressed that he was pleased to see a lot of new faces in the crowds, moving around inside and outside of Catoctin High. He was also thrilled that new people continue to want to help as volunteers to make the Community Show great.

The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin Area FFA Alumni, Maryland Agricultural Fair Board, and the Maryland State Grange.

Community Show Champions and Reserve Champions
Fresh Fruits: Champion – Martha Hauver (Peaches), Reserve Champion – Robert Black (Crimson Apples); Fresh Vegetables: Champion – Richard Manahan (Watermelon), Reserve Champion – Jean Brown (Zucchini Squash); Home Products Display: Champion – Roxanna Lambert, Reserve Champion – Charlotte Dutton; Canned Fruit: Champion – Linda Franklin (Canned Peaches), Reserve Champion – Pamela Long (Dark Chocolate Cherry Dessert Topping); Canned Vegetables: Champion – Carolyn Hahn (Whole Green Beans), Reserve Champion – Dorothy Stanley (Tomato Sauce); Jellies & Preserves: Champion – Donald Stanley (Blackberry Jelly), Reserve Champion – Deborah Howd (Lavender); Pickles: Champion – Dawn Hobbs (Whole Beet Pickles), Reserve Champion – Deborah Howd (Pickle Relish); Meat (Canned): Champion – Ann Welty (Canned Mincemeat), Reserve Champion -Ann Welty (Canned Chicken); Home Cured Meats: Champion – Robert McAfee (Country Ham), Reserve Champion – Dale Hurley (Country Ham); Baked Products Cake: Champion – Dawn Hobbs (Chiffon Cake); Reserve Champion – Dawn Hobbs (Devils Food Cake), Honorable Mention Cake Burall Brothers Scholarship – Cheryl Lenhart (Chocolate Cake); Bread: Champion – Deborah Howd (Asiago Cheese), Reserve Champion – Bridgette Kinna (Pumpkin Muffins); Pie: Champion – Deborah Howd (French Apple Pie), Reserve Champion – Deborah Howd (Pecan Pie); Sugar Free: Champion – Joyce Kline (Diabetic Cake), Reserve Champion – Nancy Wine (Peanut Butter Diabetic Cookies); Gluten Free Baked Product: Champion – Stacey Smith (Cookies), Reserve Champion – Ann Welty (Cake).

Sewing: Champion – Melinda Cool (Women’s Evening Gown), Reserve Champion – Peggy Vandercruysen (Quilt); Flowers & Plants: Champion – Roxanna Lambert (Side Table Arrangement), Reserve Champion – Roxanna Lambert (Holiday Arrangement); Arts, Painting & Drawings: Champion – Pennie Keilholtz (Acrylic), Reserve Champion – Megan Dewees (Pastel Drawing); Crafts: Champion – Gene Long (Hand Crafted Wood Craft- Nanny Rocker), Reserve Champion) – Charlotte Dutton (Felting Cat); Photography: Champion – Deborah Howd (Color Photo Collage), Reserve Champion – Debbie Swing (Black & White Photo).

Corn: Champion – Sherry Ramage (Indian Corn), Reserve Champion – Robert McAfee (Hybrid Corn); Small Grain & Seeds: Champion – Matt Clark (Soybeans), Reserve Champion – Matt Clark (Wheat); Eggs: Champion – Laurie Atwell (Brown Eggs), Reserve Champion – Kathy Dobson (White Eggs); Nuts: Champion – Edward Hahn (Black Walnuts), Reserve Champion – Edward Hahn (English Walnuts).

Rabbit: Champion – Olivia Dutton (Breeding Rabbit and offspring – New Zealand), Reserve Champion – Laura Dutton (Breeding Rabbit and Offspring); Poultry: Champion – Hope Rice (Rooster), Reserve Champion – Jerry Seiss (Seven Hens); Dairy: Champion – Blaine Lenhart (Jersey – March Calf), Reserve Champion – Jonathan Hubbard (Brown Swiss Spring Calf); Dairy Goats: Champion – Laura Dutton – (Doe 3 years and under 5 years), Reserve Champion – Olivia Dutton (Doe 2 years and under 3 years); Hay: Champion – Jonathan Hubbard (Mixed Hay), Reserve Champion – Matthew Clark (Timothy Hay); Straw: Preston Clark (Wheat Straw), Reserve Champion – Daniel Myers (Barley Straw).

Junior Department: Champion – Madison Ott (Wall Hanging), Reserve Champion – Aiden Reese (Watermelon); Junior Department Baked Product: Champion – Sophia Ruby (Orange Chiffon Cake), Reserve Champion – Cora Coblentz (Pound Cakes); Youth Department: Champion – Abigail May (Model Homemade), Reserve Champion – Zoe Willard (Crochet Item); Youth Department Baked Product: Champion – Ray Martin (Hummingbird Cake), Reserve Champion – Charles Dougherty (Chocolate Cake); Beef: Champion – Austin Ridenour, Reserve Champion – Hayden Hahn; Sheep: Champion – Kaitlynn Neff, Reserve Champion – Caroline Clark; Swine: Champion – Logan Long, Reserve Champion – Wyatt Davis; Market Goat: Champion – Gavin Valentine, Reserve Champion – Katie Glass.

Decorated Animal Contest: Champion – Laura Dutton (Ketchup and French Fries – Goat), Reserve Champion Caroline Clark (Eat More Chicken – Sheep).

Pet Show: Champion – Mary Dal-Favero (Chinese Crested Dog), Reserve Champion – Stacy Flanigan (Aussie Dog).

Kiddie Pedal Tractor Pull: Champion – Cora Clabaugh; Reserve Champion – Desean Brown.

Community Show Pet Show Results
On Saturday, September 9, the Pet Show was held at Catoctin High School, sponsored by the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show. Dave Harman served as chairman and was assisted by Patty Johnston.

Serving as a judge was Mary Ann Harbaugh of Thurmont. She and her late husband, Roscoe, owned Ross-Mar Australian Shepherds for twenty-seven years. They had numerous Best In Shows and the top twenty-one of the breed. Also serving as a judge was Stephanie Torres, an art teacher from Walkersville.

Participants received food coupons, courtesy of Kentucky Fried Chicken, and pet food, courtesy of Thurmont Feed Store.
To begin the show, Maxine Medaglia of Bark Busters gave a presentation on dog obedience.

The judges selected a Chinese Crested dog owned by Mary Dal-Favero of Thurmont as Grand Champion. She received a rosette ribbon and gift certificate donated by the Thurmont Feed Store.

They selected an Australian Shepherd, owned by Stacey Flanigan of Rocky Ridge, as Reserve Champion. She received a rosette ribbon and gift certificate, donated by Main Street Groomers.

Stephanie Moreland, the 2017-2018 Catoctin FFA Ambassador, presented ribbons to the winners listed as first, second, third, and honorable mention, respectively. Cat with Prettiest Eyes—Chelsea Dawson, Larry and Andrew Duble, Angie Swailes, Audrey Downs; Cat with Longest Whiskers—(tie) Larry and Andrew Duble, Angie Swailes, Audrey Downs; Cutest Cat—Larry and Andrew Duble, Chelsea Dawson, Angie Swailes, Audrey Downs; Best-Trained Pet—Rose Weedy, Val Kilby; Dog with Wiggliest Tail—Mary Dal-Favero, Ashley Robichaud, Amber Smith, Stacey Flanigan; Prettiest Dog (25 lbs. and under)—Mntana Herr, Rose Weedy, Kelly Schildt, Cole and Carly Hahn; Prettiest Dog (26 lbs. and over)—Stacey Flanigan, Sila and Christy Wahl, Abby Ewing, Leah Morgan; Best Costumed Pet—Cole and Carly Hahn, Montana Herr, Audrey Downs, Warren Schaefer; Pet with Most Spots—Peyton Davis, Abby Ewing, Kelsey Mathias; Largest Pet—Abby Ewing, Leah Morgan, Silas and Christy Wahl; Most Unusual Pet—Makenzie Lewis, Warren Shafer, Luanne Ewing; Smallest Pet—Makenzie Lewis, Montana Herr, Warren Schaefer, Cole and Carley Hahn.

Opening Ceremonies honored the fiftieth anniversary of WTHU Radio and St. John’s Christian Preschool. Pictured from left are: (front row) Tammy Tingley, Dr. Stacey Brown Hobbs, Wanda Mathias, Manah Beard, Stephanie Moreland, Ann Kruhm, Janice Gramms and Rachel Mosey; (second row) Dave Harman, Principal Quesada, Superintendent Dr. Teresa Alban, Bob Valentine, Rocky Birely, Rodman Myers, Kevin Bream, Gayle Spahr, Hollis Zimmerman, Dottie Valentine, Donna Betteridge, Amy Poffenberger, and Daniel Myers.

ESP Community Show table: Mya Harrington, Leila Casamassina, Tierney Burns, Jack Estep, Olivia Ecker, Mya Horman.

Carol Long won a first place ribbon in the Adult Photography category.


Auctioneer Josh Ruby is pictured with his son, Jameson, and his daughter, Sophia, with her Champion Cake.


Pet Show participants are shown with their pets.


Kiddie Tractor Pull: (Age 7-8) Kyle Stine; (Age 9-10) Grand Champion—Cora Coblentz; (Age 5-6) Reserve Champion—Desean Brown.


Horseshoe Contest: pictured are Jeff Powell, Ray Helsley, Gary Hoffmaster, John Holt, Richard Brown, Bernie Hobbs, Jim Shubert, Rick Willard, Dave Wivell, Johnny Burhman, Dick Glass, Dale Kaas, and Donnie Kaas (knealing).

 

C. Rodman Myers — 2016 Maryland Fair Person of the Year Award

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On November 5, 2016, at the Maryland Association of Agricultural Fairs and Shows (MAAFS) annual convention in Ocean City, Maryland, C. Rodman Myers of Thurmont received the 2016 Maryland Fair Person of the Year Award. The Fair Person of the Year recipients are outstanding individuals who exemplify the best in our industry by believing in and continually promoting fairs, shows, and festivals in Maryland. The MAAFS Fair Person of the Year is a peer award. Any MAAFS member may nominate a candidate, based on criteria developed by the MAAFS Board of Directors.

For more than sixty years, Rodman has been one of the driving forces, along with agriculture teacher Bill Baker (who is now deceased), behind the annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show. This Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, and Catoctin FFA Alumni and attended annually by more than 7,000 people. His work with the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board has resulted in funding, which supports the show. Rodman oversees many details, including volunteer recruitment, advertisers for the Community Show booklet, set-up, commercial displays, judges, entertainment, door prize donations, and many other activities. In 1976, during our country’s Bicentennial, a community flag ceremony was added to the show, and has grown to include about thirty-five community and civic organizations each year. The Community Show just celebrated its sixtieth year in September and had approximately 600 exhibitors enter over 3,200 exhibits. There were about 140 new exhibitors, a twenty percent increase from 2015. Rodman is very appreciative that his entire family helps with all aspects of the Community Show.

While the Community show takes a lot of his time, Rodman is also a member of the Thurmont Grange for sixty-eight years, and is currently serving as Master. He has participated in every Grange community service activity, including donating dictionaries to third grade students, delivering fruit baskets to residents at their homes or in nursing and rehabilitation facilities, and helping to dip ice cream at the Catoctin Colorfest—just to name a few.

Rodman has also volunteered for activities in the Frederick Fair’s Farm and Garden Building with Frederick County Pomona Grange’s corn shelling demonstrations and hospitality booth. He also served as the Frederick County Pomona Grange Master and the Maryland State Grange Master, each for four years. Rodman is also a life member of the Catoctin FFA Alumni, where his vision, time, and farming experience has positively impacted the program. Rodman is known for his genuine love of the community, an ambassador for agriculture, and helping residents grow and prosper.

Rodman has received the following awards: Maryland Jaycees Outstanding Young Farmer (1968); Pennsylvania Farmer Magazine’s Master Farmer Award (1978); Maryland 4-H All Star Award (1982); Future Farmers of America’s Honorary FFA American Farmer Degree (1982); Rodman and his family were one of the recipients of the first of three farm families inducted into the Maryland Agriculture Hall of Fame (1991); Community Foundation of Frederick County (2013) Wertheimer Fellow Award for Excellence in Volunteerism; Great Frederick Fair Agriculture Advocate Award (2016).

He has also been a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Thurmont for over sixty years and has served on various committees.

Rodman and his late wife, Jean, own and operate Catoctin Mountain View Farm and have four children: Patty, Cheryl, Bobby, and Andrea, two sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law, seven grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and one great-grandson.

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Rodman Myers, 2016 Maryland Fair Person of the Year, receives his award from the 2015 winner, Montgomery Co. Agricultural Fair Executive Director Marty Svrcek.

2016 Plans for 60th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The 60th annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School on September 9, 10, and 11, 2016.

Entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 8, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., as well as on Friday, September 9, from 8:30-11:30 a.m., in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area. Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, September 9, and is closed to the public. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 9, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show will open to the public at 6:00 p.m. A silver offering will be collected to benefit the Thurmont Food Bank and the Emmitsburg Food Bank. Door prizes will be awarded each day.

On Friday night, September 9, at 7:00 p.m., approximately forty participants will participate in the community flag ceremony, accompanied by a bagpipe processional performed by Bill and Andrew Douwes. “The Star Spangled Banner” will be sung by Chad Umbel, former Catoctin FFA student. This year’s program will recognize all former past Maryland State FFA officers who graduated from Thurmont High School, Emmitsburg High School, or Catoctin High School. Following the recognition, the 2016-2017 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. The baked goods auction will begin immediately following the program, and the grand champion cake, pie, and bread will be sold at 9:00 p.m.

On Saturday, September 10, the show opens at 9:00 a.m. and runs until 10:00 p.m. Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep, and Swine Fitting & Showing Contest, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Ag Center at the school. The Thurmont Police Department will have a K-9 dog exhibition, featuring “Buddy,” which will be held at 10:00 a.m., immediately before the Pet Show begins in front of the school. The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. Categories include: cat with prettiest eyes; cat with longest whiskers; cutest cat; best-trained pet; dog with wiggliest tail; prettiest dog (25 pounds and under); prettiest dog (26 pounds and over); best costumed pet; pet with most spots; largest pet (by height); most unusual pet; and smallest pet. The petting zoo, farm animals, and pony rides will also be held on Saturday and Sunday.

The Thurmont Grange will serve their turkey and country ham dinner in the school cafeteria from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Saturday night. Entertainment for Saturday and Sunday will be performed by the Catoctin Mountain Boys. Performance times on Saturday will be from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.; and from 7:00-8:30 p.m., the Taylor Brown “Elvis Show” will be performed. On Sunday, the entertainment begins at 1:00 p.m.; the Taylor Brown “Elvis Show” will be performed from 2:00-3:00 p.m. There will be no admission charge for the entertainment.

The 42nd annual Catoctin FFA Alumni Beef, Sheep & Swine Sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night. There will be approximately twelve beef, twelve sheep, twenty swine, and seven goats for sale by 4-H and FFA members. Buyers are welcome to come to support these individuals and their livestock projects.
Activities begin on Sunday, September 11, at 9:00 a.m., with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show and Decorated Animal Contest. The decorated animal contest will begin at noon.

At 12:00 p.m., the Catoctin FFA Alumni Chicken Bar-B-Que will be held in the cafeteria. The 37th annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m.
The Log Sawing Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. under the show tent in the Ag Center area. Another new and fun feature will be a Peddle Tractor Contest for kids, which will be held on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., also in the Ag Center area, and prizes will be awarded.

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 11, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. Please note the new deadline to pick up items.

The community show booklets can be found in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg, and surrounding area businesses in late July or early August. New residents of the community are urged to enter and be a part of the Community Show, the largest in the State of Maryland. Some minor additions and deletions will be made in some of the departments.
Departments include: Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing & Needlework, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Paintings & Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department, and Youth Department. There is no entry fee. Please visit our website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburg communityshow.webs.com.

The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, the Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.

2016 Plans for 60th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The 60th annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School on September 9, 10, and 11, 2016.

Entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 8, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., as well as on Friday, September 9, from 8:30-11:30 a.m., in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area. Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, September 9, and is closed to the public. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 9, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show will open to the public at 6:00 p.m. A silver offering will be collected to benefit the Thurmont Food Bank and the Emmitsburg Food Bank. Door prizes will be awarded each day.

On Friday night, September 9, at 7:00 p.m., approximately forty participants will participate in the community flag ceremony, accompanied by a bagpipe processional performed by Bill and Andrew Douwes. “The Star Spangled Banner” will be sung by Chad Umbel, former Catoctin FFA student. This year’s program will recognize all former past Maryland State FFA officers who graduated from Thurmont High School, Emmitsburg High School, or Catoctin High School. Following the recognition, the 2016-2017 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. The baked goods auction will begin immediately following the program, and the grand champion cake, pie, and bread will be sold at 9:00 p.m.

On Saturday, September 10, the show opens at 9:00 a.m. and runs until 10:00 p.m. Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep, and Swine Fitting & Showing Contest, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Ag Center at the school. The Thurmont Police Department will have a K-9 dog exhibition, featuring “Buddy,” which will be held at 10:00 a.m., immediately before the Pet Show begins in front of the school. The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. Categories include: cat with prettiest eyes; cat with longest whiskers; cutest cat; best-trained pet; dog with wiggliest tail; prettiest dog (25 pounds and under); prettiest dog (26 pounds and over); best costumed pet; pet with most spots; largest pet (by height); most unusual pet; and smallest pet. The petting zoo, farm animals, and pony rides will also be held on Saturday and Sunday.

The Thurmont Grange will serve their turkey and country ham dinner in the school cafeteria from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Saturday night. Entertainment for Saturday and Sunday will be performed by the Catoctin Mountain Boys. Performance times on Saturday will be from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.; and from 7:00-8:30 p.m., the Taylor Brown “Elvis Show” will be performed. On Sunday, the entertainment begins at 1:00 p.m.; the Taylor Brown “Elvis Show” will be performed from 2:00-3:00 p.m. There will be no admission charge for the entertainment.

The 42nd annual Catoctin FFA Alumni Beef, Sheep & Swine Sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night. There will be approximately twelve beef, twelve sheep, twenty swine, and seven goats for sale by 4-H and FFA members. Buyers are welcome to come to support these individuals and their livestock projects.

Activities begin on Sunday, September 11, at 9:00 a.m., with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show and Decorated Animal Contest. The decorated animal contest will begin at noon.

At 12:00 p.m., the Catoctin FFA Alumni Chicken Bar-B-Que will be held in the cafeteria. The 37th annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m.

The Log Sawing Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. under the show tent in the Ag Center area. Another new and fun feature will be a Peddle Tractor Contest for kids, which will be held on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., also in the Ag Center area, and prizes will be awarded.

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 11, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. Please note the new deadline to pick up items.

The community show booklets can be found in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg, and surrounding area businesses in late July or early August. New residents of the community are urged to enter and be a part of the Community Show, the largest in the State of Maryland. Some minor additions and deletions will be made in some of the departments. Departments include: Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing & Needlework, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Paintings & Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department, and Youth Department. There is no entry fee. Please visit our website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow.webs.com.
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The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, the Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.

Thurmont Grange Holds Annual Community Citizenship Award Ceremony

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Grace Eyler

November 23, 2015, marked the annual Community Citizenship Award ceremony held by the Thurmont Grange. This year, members joined together to share special memories and give thanks to the Keilholtz family who have volunteered so much time to our community. While members mingled and found seating for dinner, Bob Wiles gladly welcomed those who came out for the evening. The crowd proudly stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by Addi Eyler singing the National Anthem. Roger Troxell held prayer.

Wiles turned attention to Niki Eyler who told of the Keilholtz family’s history. Bill Keilholtz served in the Air Force. He then worked on the family farm and purchased his first two milk trucks in 1946. He married his wife, Elizabeth in 1952. He began a trucking company known as Keilholtz Trucking. Bill and Elizabeth were members of many local organizations including the Catoctin FFA Alumni and the Thurmont Grange.

After the passing of Bill and Elizabeth, his sons Donnie and Billy, along with his grandson Chad, continued the family business. On behalf of Thurmont Grange President, Rodman Myers, Bill Powell spoke fondly of the Keilholtz family. “They are very giving; Bill would help anybody with anything! He was always there to back you up. People just took to him. If Bill told you something, you could hang your hat on it.”

In the summers, Powell recalled that Bill and Elizabeth would sit on their porch with their little dog. He and his wife, Gail, would stop in and talk. “Bill would talk about where he’s been, Elizabeth would talk about the kids. Right around Labor Day, she’d be working for days preparing food for the church. That lady made about the best red velvet cakes.”

Bill Keilholtz had an inspiring reputation for helping those around him. When cattle were in need of transport for local events, such as the Thurmont-Emmitsburg Community Show and The Great Frederick Fair, Keilholtz Trucking was there to bring the livestock in and out at the end of the day.

The Keilholtz family also has deep roots in our community’s 4-H society. In 1954, Ralph Lee Keilholtz, with other local residents, started the 4-H we know today. Dave Ekenrode said, “At the time, it grew to be the largest in the area with seventy-seven members.” Dave remembers meetings that were held at Ralph’s home, filling the living room and dining room, all the way to the steps. Ralph’s leadership was then followed by Patty Keilholtz.

Patty was not only the leader of Rocky Ridge’s 4-H, but also highly involved with the Maryland Angus Association. Patty was Junior Advisor. Her son, Chad, won the National Showmanship Contest. Mr. Powell said, “That’s almost unheard of because people in the Midwest beat ‘em out.”

Becky (Keilholtz) Clarke and her husband Tim’s daughters, Jessica and Taylor, were also accomplished in the local show rings as members of the Maryland Angus Association.

In 2015, Brenda (Keilholtz) Seiss has been leading the Rocky Ridge 4-H Club for nearly thirty-five years. She credits the highly popular youth organization to “…all of the parental help. I couldn’t do it without the parents and the families. When we want to do something, we don’t just pull a few kids in, we pull in everyone. I’m really fortunate for all the help we have.”

Her husband, Dave, is a local contractor. Their son, Bradley, another member who was known for his showmanship talent, is now the owner of newly opened “Seiss Woodworking,” located near Gateway Candyland, along Route 15 at Franklinville Road in Thurmont. Her daughter, Katie (Seiss) Eaves, is married to Andrew Eaves, whose family is also well known for their farming operations in the area.

Thurmont Grange Vice President Bob Wiles then called the family up to the front of the room to present Mayor’s proclamations from the Town of Thurmont, as well as the Community Citizen Award, honoring the Keilholtz family and the Progressive Rocky Ridge 4-H Club. In one way or another, a member of the Keilholtz family has lent a helping hand or assisted in bettering our community. There’s no better way to say it than Bob Valentine’s compliments, “There’s been no finer family around, than the Keilholtz family.”

Keilholtz Family

Niki Eyler and Bob Wiles present members of the Kielholtz family with the Thurmont Grange Citizenship Award and Proclamation from the Town of Thurmont, thanking the family, as well as Rocky Ridge 4-H Club.

Plans for 59th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The Purpose of the Community Show is to Educate, to Inspire, and to Entertain

The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School on September 11-13, 2015. Visit the Community Show’s website at www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow.webs.com to view the premium list for 2015 and the community show booklet.

On Friday evening, September 11, the 2015-2016 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. The baked goods auction will begin following the program, and the grand champion cake, pie, bread, gluten-free baked product, sugar free baked product, and the Junior and Youth Department baked product champions will be sold at 9:00 p.m.

Entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 10, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., and on Friday, September 11, from 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area. There will be changes made in many of the classes, including photography, fresh vegetables, corn, and other departments. Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 11, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show will open to the public at 6:00 p.m., and the Friday night program will feature the 50th anniversary of Sabillasville Elementary School, with several individuals being honored.

On Saturday, September 12, the show opens at 9:00 a.m. Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep and Swine Fitting & Showing contest, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Ag Center at the school. A Scales and Tales demonstration will take place immediately prior to the Pet Show in the front of the school. The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. outside the front of the school. The petting zoo, farm animals, and pony rides by the Mason Dixon Quarter Horse Club will also be held on Saturday and Sunday, located near the upper parking lot at the high school, featuring “Abel,” owned by Joe and Ruth Biser, who is a Brown Swiss animal that is twelve years old and weighs 2,600 pounds. Alpacas, owned by Lynn Cherish of Baggy Britches Farm, will be on display. Emus, owned by James Royer, will be on display, and a sow and litter of pigs owned by Phil Wivell will also be on display.

The Thurmont Grange will serve their turkey and country ham dinner in the school cafeteria from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Saturday night. CATOCTIN The Band will perform in the auditorium, beginning at 6:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m., the Taylor Brown “Elvis Show” will be performed. There will be no admission charge for this entertainment.

The 41st annual Catoctin FFA Alumni Beef, Sheep, Swine and Market Goat sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night, with approximately fifty-five head of livestock being sold. Buyers are welcome to attend and purchase animals.

Activities begin on Sunday, September 13th at 9:00 a.m. with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show and Decorated Animal Contest. The decorated animal contest will begin at noon.

At 12:00 noon, the Catoctin FFA Alumni Chicken Bar-B-Que will be held in the cafeteria. The 35th annual Robert Kaas horseshoe pitching contest will begin at 1:00 p.m.

The Log Sawing Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. under the show tent in the Ag Center area. A peddle tractor contest for kids will be held on Sunday afternoon at 1:30 p.m., also in the Ag Center area. The Thurmont Academy of Self Defense will have a program in the old gymnasium at 1:00 and 2:00 p.m. CATOCTIN The Band will perform in the auditorium from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. and the Taylor Brown “Elvis Show” will be held from 2:00-3:00 p.m.

The Catoctin FFA Alumni will be holding a raffle during the community show. Profit from the raffle will go toward the scholarship fund as each year the Alumni awards scholarships to graduating Catoctin FFA Chapter seniors and past FFA graduates seeking secondary education.

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 13, 2015 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. If items are left at the school after this time, they may be picked up in the Ag Center area on Tuesday, September 15, 2015, as there is no school on Monday, September 14th.

The community show booklets can be found in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg and surrounding area businesses in late July or early August. New residents of the community are urged to enter and be a part of the Community Show, the largest in the State of Maryland. Some minor additions and deletions will be made in some of the departments. Departments include: Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing & Needlework, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Paintings & Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department and Youth Department. There is no entry fee. Please visit our website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow.webs.com.

The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, the Maryland State Grange and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.

 

Plans for 59th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School on September 11-13, 2015.

On Friday night, the 2015-2016 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. The baked goods auction will begin following the program and the grand champion cake, pie, bread, gluten-free baked product, sugar-free baked product, and the Junior and Youth Department baked product champions will be sold at 9:00 p.m.

Entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 10, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., and on Friday, September 11, from 8:30-11:30 a.m., in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area. There will be changes made in many of the classes, including photography, fresh vegetables, corn, and other departments. Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 11, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show will open to the public at 6:00 p.m., and the Friday night program will feature the 50th anniversary of Sabillasville Elementary School.

On Saturday, September 12, the show opens at 9:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep and Swine Fitting & Showing contest, from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., at the Ag Center at the school. A Scales and Tales demonstration will take place immediately prior to the Pet Show, which will take place in the front of the school at 10:30 a.m. The petting zoo, farm animals, and pony rides will also be held on Saturday and Sunday, located near the upper parking lot at the high school.

The Thurmont Grange will serve a buffet turkey and country ham dinner in the school cafeteria from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Saturday night. Prices are: $13.00 per adult, $7.00 for children under twelve (children under five are free). Carry-out dinners are available for $14.00 each.

The Catoctin Mountain Boys will perform in the auditorium at 7:00 p.m. There will be no admission charge for this entertainment.

The 41st annual Catoctin FFA Alumni Beef, Sheep & Swine sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night.

Activities begin on Sunday, September 13 at 9:00 a.m. with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show and Decorated Animal Contest. The decorated animal contest will begin at noon. At noon, the Catoctin FFA Alumni Chicken Bar-B-Que will be held in the cafeteria. Prices are: $10.00 per adult; $7.00 for children under age twelve. The 36th annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. The Log Sawing Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. under the show tent in the Ag Center area.

A peddle tractor contest for kids will be held on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., also in the Ag Center area. The Catoctin Mountain Boys will perform from 1:00-3:00 p.m. in the auditorium.

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 13, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. If items are left at the school after this time, they may be picked up in the Ag Center area on Tuesday, September 15, as there is no school on Monday, September 14.

The community show booklets can now be found in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg and surrounding area businesses.

New residents of the community are urged to enter and be a part of the Community Show, the largest in the State of Maryland.

Some minor additions and deletions will be made in some of the departments. Departments include: Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies and Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing and Needlework, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Paintings and Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry and Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department and Youth Department. There is no entry fee.

Please visit their website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunityshow. webs.com.

The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, the Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.

2015 Plans for 59th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held at Catoctin High School on September 11-13, 2015. On Friday night, the 2015-2016 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. The baked goods auction will begin following the program, and the grand champion cake, pie, bread, gluten-free baked product, sugar-free baked product, and the Junior and Youth Department baked product champions will be sold at 9:00 p.m. 

Entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 10, 2015, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., and on Friday, September 11, from 8:30-11:30 a.m. in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area. There will be changes made in many of the classes, including photography, fresh vegetables, corn, and other departments.  Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 11, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show will open to the public at 6:00 p.m., and the Friday night program will feature the 50th anniversary of Sabillasville Elementary School. 

On Saturday, September 12, 2015, the show opens at 9:00 a.m. and runs to 10:00 p.m.  Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep and Swine Fitting & Showing contest from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Ag Center at the school.  A Scales and Tales demonstration will take place prior to the Pet Show. The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m., outside the front of the school. The petting zoo, farm animals, and pony rides will also be held on Saturday and Sunday.

The Thurmont Grange will serve their turkey and country ham dinner in the school cafeteria from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Saturday night. The Catoctin Mountain Boys will perform in the auditorium at 7:00 p.m. There will be no admission charged for this entertainment.

The 41st Annual Catoctin FFA Alumni Beef, Sheep & Swine sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night. 

Activities begin on Sunday, September 13, at 9:00 a.m. with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show and Decorated Animal Contest. The Decorated Animal Contest will begin at noon.

At noon, the Catoctin FFA Alumni Chicken Bar-B-Que will be held in the cafeteria. The 36th Annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m.

The Log Sawing Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. under the show tent in the Ag Center area. A peddle tractor contest for kids will be held on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., also in the Ag Center area. The Catoctin Mountain Boys will perform from 1:00-3:00 p.m. in the auditorium. 

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 13, 2015, from 3:00-6:00 p.m.  Please note the new deadline to pick up items.

The community show booklets can be found in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg, and surrounding area businesses in late July or early August. New residents of the community are urged to enter and be a part of the Community Show, the largest in the State of Maryland. Some minor additions and deletions will be made in some of the departments. Departments include: Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing & Needlework, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Paintings & Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department and Youth Department.  There is no entry fee.  Please visit their website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburgcommunity show.webs.com. 

The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, the Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.

Kuhns, Wolfes, and Other Natives Attended Foxville School Reunion

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Deb Spalding

Yes, the Kuhns and the Wolfes were out for the Foxville School Reunion on May 17, 2015, at the school house. So were the Brandenburgs, Buhrmans, Hurleys, Willards, Delauters, Klines, and Clines, in addition to members of other homestead mountain families as students of the former Foxville School reminisced while enjoying a lunch of homemade fare. “The reunion has been held since 1986, and since that first gathering, 86 people who were present at the first reunion have passed away,” said reunion coordinator, Don Hurley.

Students shared stories about arriving early to fire up the wood stove; cutting firewood at the school to use when coal rations ran out; sneaky boys putting pencils in a girl’s braids; playing on a big log in the woods behind the school house; and shimmying out a window and running home to avoid staying after school (there was no mention of the escape the next day).

Before the Foxville School was built in 1924, North Franklin School and East Franklin School served smaller groups of school children in the Foxville area. The current Foxville School building was used until June 1961. It was planned that the school would close earlier but there was much organized resistance to the idea. When it finally closed, the entire student body consisting of about 60 students was transferred to Wolfsville.  At that time, Mr. Marshall Leatherman retired from the principalship and Mr. Kenneth Frushour was assigned as principal. Mrs. Virginia K. Draper was assigned as a sixth grade teacher, Mrs. Judith (King) Raun was assigned as a new first grade teacher, and Miss Joan Lawyer (now Spalding) was assigned as a new third grade teacher.

The students from Foxville continued to attend the Wolfsville School until the new Sabillasville Elementary School was built and occupied in September, 1965. Sabillasville Elementary School will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year with special activities this fall. The anniversary will also be honored at the opening ceremonies of the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show in September.

For more information about the Foxville School Reunion, please call 301-416-0798 or 301-416-0185.

DSC_0493

This photo was taken in the “Little” room of the school where grades 1, 2, and 3 were taught. Pictured left to right front row are Beverley (Hurley) Kolb, Margaret (Buhrman) Sigler, Ethel (Hurley) Fitzgerald, Betty Willard (former teacher at the school), Elva (Weagley) Schultz, Jane (Hayes) Draper, Janet (Wolfe) Monn, Jean (Wolfe) Cline; 2nd row, Diane (Hessong) Vaughn, Carolyn (Brandenburg) Fishack, Ruth “Pat” Willard, Nancy (Hurley) Glass, Evangeline (Willard) Brown, Judy (Kline) Willard, Patty (Jacobs) Willard, Genevieve Delauter, Paul Delauter; 3rd row, Dot McAfee, Henry Buhrman, Sara (Testerman) Hurley, Clarence Lee Willard, Rob McAfee, Don Hurley, Harold “Bill” Brandenburg, Eugene Brandenburg, Karl E. Brandenburg, Rayetta (Willard) Brown, Austin  “Ott” Wolfe, Richard Willard, Jim Kuhn, Ken Cline, and Walter Lantz, Jr.

Photo by Deb Spalding

Foxville School — 1948 or 1949

The photo was taken on the front steps of the Foxville School.

Foxville School Reunion - 1948 or 1949

First row: Cyrus Brown, Gary Kendall, Unknown, Merle Toms, Dick Abraham, Clifton Pryor, Bonnie Kuhn, Joan Fox (?); 2nd row: Kenny or Paul Smith (brothers), Charles Linton, Richard Toms, John Stottlemyer, Leah Willard (also known as Leah (Wolfe), Kay Swope; 3rd row: Bob Testerman, Robert Duncan, Ralph Hurley, Arthur Brandenburg, Frankie Linton; 4th row: Joan Draper, Beverley Hurley, Harold Willard, Leon DeLauter, Josephine Buhrman, Dorothy Stottlemyer, Betty Pryor, Margaret Kuhn; 5th row: Ronald Swope, Julia Brandenburg, Roberta Hauver, Imogene Brown, and Gary Swope.

Plans for 59th Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show committee met recently to begin planning the 59th annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show. The show will be held at Catoctin High School on September 11-13, 2015. Officers elected at the meeting were: President—Rodman Myers; Vice President—Robert Valentine; Secretary—Brian Hendrickson. Other committee members are Sue Keilholtz, Jessica Valentine, Robert Wiles, David Harman, Cheryl Lenhart, Ray Martin, Humberto Benitez, Michael Lewis, Sharon Lewis, Denise Valentine, Amanda and Paul Dennis, Clifford Stewart, Helen Troxell, Cathy Little, Karen Myers, Sue Sanders, Patty Johnston, Laura Keilholtz, Jim Barth, Kay Barth, Hannah Barth, Thad Bittner, Amy Jo Poffenberger, and Daniel Myers.

On Friday night, the 2015-2016 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. The baked goods auction will begin following the program, and the grand champion cake, pie, and bread will be sold at 9:00 p.m. 

Entry of exhibits will take place on Thursday evening, September 10, 2015, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., and on Friday, September 11, from 8:30-11:30 a.m., in the new gymnasium and in the agriculture department area. Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 11, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show will open to the public at 6:00 p.m. 

On Saturday, September 12, 2015, the show opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 10:00 p.m. Activities include a Market Goat, Beef, Sheep and Swine Fitting & Showing contest from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Ag Center at the school. The Pet Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. outside the front of the school. The petting zoo, farm animals, and pony rides will also be held on Saturday and Sunday.

The Thurmont Grange will serve their Turkey and Country Ham dinner in the school cafeteria from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Saturday night. The Catoctin Mountain Boys will perform in the auditorium at 7:00 p.m. There will be no admission charged for this entertainment.

The 41st annual Catoctin FFA Alumni Beef, Sheep & Swine sale will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Ag Center area on Saturday night. 

Activities begin on Sunday, September 13, at 9:00 a.m., with the Goat Show, followed by the Dairy Show and Decorated Animal Contest. The decorated animal contest will begin at noon.

At 12:00 p.m., the Catoctin FFA Alumni Chicken Bar-B-Que will be held in the cafeteria. The 36th annual Robert Kaas horseshoe pitching contest will begin at 1:00 p.m.

The Log Sawing Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. under the show tent in the Ag Center area. A peddle tractor contest for kids will be held on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., also in the Ag Center area. The Catoctin Mountain Boys will perform from 1:00-3:00 p.m. in the auditorium. 

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 13, 2015, from 3:00-6:00 p.m.  Please note the new deadline to pick up items.

If you would like to be a new advertiser in their show booklet, please contact Rodman Myers at 301-271-2104 to obtain advertising information or via email at thurmontemmitsburg communityshow@gmail.com. Past advertisers will be receiving letters for advertisements in the near future. The deadline for advertisements is May 15, 2015. The community show booklets can be found in local Thurmont, Emmitsburg, and surrounding area businesses in late July or early August. New residents of the community are urged to enter and be a part of the Community Show, the largest in the State of Maryland. Some minor additions and deletions will be made in some of the departments. Departments include:  Fresh Fruits, Fresh Vegetables, Home Products Display, Canned Fruits, Canned Vegetables, Jellies & Preserves, Pickles, Meats, Baked Products, Sewing & Needlework, Flowers and Plants, Arts, Paintings & Drawings, Crafts, Photography, Corn, Small Grains and Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, Poultry & Livestock, Dairy, Goats, Hay, Junior Department and Youth Department. There is no entry fee. Please visit their website for updated information at www.thurmontemmitsburg communityshow.webs.com. 

The Community Show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, the Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland State Agricultural Fair Board.