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Thurmont Grange Hosts Community Citizen Dinner & Announces Citizen of the Year Award

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On Monday, April 10, Thurmont Grange No. 409 hosted its annual Community Citizen Dinner. Each year, the Grange recognizes an individual or group who strives to make a difference by giving back to our community. This year, Jon Barton, general manager of Roy Rogers in Thurmont, was the honoree.

 Although Jon is not from Thurmont, he has made this town his home.  Jon grew up in the small town of Hinsdale, New York, and went on to graduate from Mercyhurst University for Business Management. It was at a job fair hosted by Mercyhurst University that he first heard of Roy Rogers. They offered him an assistant manager position, and he moved to Maryland to start his career. Jon has now been with the company for 17 years, spending most of that time at the Thurmont location, where for the last 8 years, he has been the general manager. 

Jon epitomizes Roy Rogers’ mission to give back to the community. In the last year alone, Jon, along with the amazing Thurmont Roy Rogers’ staff, has helped 35 local organizations raise $35,596.42. Not only does Roy’s donate 25 percent of sales to organizations during their fundraiser nights, Jon also allows organizations to display their current fundraiser and event information, have bake sales, and hold meetings and sign-up events. Jon takes it a step further by freezing leftover food and donating it to the Thurmont Food Bank. This is vital to those whose living situation may only provide them with access to a microwave or their physical condition makes it difficult for them to cook for themselves. Even on a personal level, Jon is giving back to the community by being a manager, coach, and board member for the Thurmont Little League. 

Representatives from several organizations who have benefited from Jon’s generosity, including the Thurmont Food Bank, Thurmont Little League, Catoctin Safe and Sane, and The Thurmont Senior Center, spoke about all the wonderful things Jon has done to support them. In addition, Jon’s family, local Roy Rogers staff members, and those from the cooperate office also had so many great things to say about him. It is obvious that Jon Barton has made a positive difference in our community, and he is well-deserving of Thurmont Grange’s Community Citizen of the Year Award.

Jon Barton is pictured with Thurmont Grange President Niki Eyler.

Thurmont Grange Hosts Annual “Antique Roadshow”

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On Monday, March 27, Thurmont Grange No. 409 hosted its annual “Antique Roadshow.” This event is held each year to raise money for an individual, family, or organization in need.

This year, funds were donated to Kyle Stine’s family. Kyle was a local 14-year-old boy who, in November 2022, was diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), which is a brain tumor that is highly aggressive and difficult to treat. It occurs in an area of the brainstem (the lowest stem-like part of the brain) called the pons, which controls many of the body’s most vital functions, such as breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate. On December 27, just over a month after being diagnosed, Kyle passed away. He leaves behind his parents and two younger brothers, as well as countless family and friends.

The Roadshow attendees brought a wide variety of antiques and collectibles to be evaluated by our local experts, Norman Feldser and Lisa Cantwell, who graciously volunteered their time and knowledge. Everything from a corn cracker and letters to jewelry and toy trains, and everything in between, was examined and evaluated. All guests enjoyed listening to the stories and history behind these items and learning the potential value and professional opinions of both Norman and Lisa. As our experts explained, sentimental value and actual value are not the same and condition is everything when it comes to appraisals.

Keith and Sarah Stine, Kyle’s parents, were present to receive the donation that Thurmont Grange was able to raise, thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended the Antique Roadshow.

Thurmont Grange Welcomes New Members

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At the March meeting, the Thurmont Grange proudly welcomed five new members: Kathy Hoffman, Juliann Frantz, Kayleigh Frantz, Cherie Knighton and Shannon Knighton.

The Thurmont Grange is a family organization and people of all ages are invited to join.  If you are interested in more information or becoming a member, please email thurmontgrange@gmail.com or call Rodman Myers at 301-606-9221.

Kathy Hoffman, Juliann Frantz, Kayleigh Frantz, Cherie Knighton, and Shannon Knighton are pictured with Thurmont Grange Vice President Alan Brauer.

Thurmont Grange Offers Scholarships

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Thurmont Grange #409 is offering two scholarships to any 2023 Catoctin High School graduating seniors who will be attending a technical or trade school, community college, or four-year college.

Applicants are required to submit one letter of recommendation, an essay about how furthering your education will have a positive impact on your community, and your official high school transcript.

Scholarships will be awarded on May 31, 2023. Applications may be obtained by emailing thurmontgrange@gmail.com or contacting the Catoctin High School Guidance Department at 240-236-8100.

All applications must be received by April 30, 2023.

Thurmont Grange Holds First Responders Appreciation Event

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Cheryl Lenhart

Thurmont Grange #409 hosted its First Responders Appreciation Night at the Thurmont Town Park on June 27. After an invocation given by Nancy Wine, all members and guests in attendance enjoyed a covered-dish picnic dinner.

Lecturer Niki Eyler then turned the program over to Grange members who introduced our First Responders.

Graceham VFC No. 18: Jane Savage introduced recipient of Graceham VFC No. 18 recognition award, Julie Fogle. Julie was nominated by Fire Chief Louis Powell, Jr., who in his comments stated, “It is with the utmost honor that I nominate FF/EMT Fogle to be recognized by the Thurmont Grange #409.” Chief Powell stated that FF/EMT Fogle’s hard work and dedication earned Graceham VFC No. 18 the Clint Hughes Departmental Fire Prevention Award at this year’s Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association (“FCVFRA”) Awards Ceremony, which was held on April 18 at Walkersville VFC #11. FF/EMT Fogle is in charge of Graceham’s Facebook page, where she posts monthly fire prevention and life safety messages. FF/EMT Fogle previously held the positions of secretary and lieutenant and currently serves on the board of directors and is assistant secretary. She is also the chairperson for Graceham’s Fire Prevention Committee and Banquet Committee. It was her hard work that allowed Graceham to have a great banquet this past year. FF/EMT Fogle meets and exceeds the standards set forth by the FCVFRA to be a Chief officer.

Lewistown Volunteer Fire Department: Nancy Wine introduced recipient of Lewistown’s recognition award, Bethany Wachter. Bethany was nominated by Wayne P. Wachter, Jr.  and was nominated as she was the top responder for EMS calls during the entire COVID-19 pandemic.  This year, she will have 25 years of service to the community. Bethany helps with dinners, bingos, yard sales, and all other functions the Lewistown Volunteer Fire Department has during the year.  She lives in Mountaindale with her husband and two daughters.

Thurmont Community Ambulance Service: Nancy Wine introduced recipient of Thurmont Community Ambulance Service recognition award, Jennifer Frushour. Jennifer was nominated by Judith White of the Thurmont Community Ambulance Service. Jennifer was recognized for her service to the department and the community as a whole. She has been involved with volunteer fire and rescue service since she was a youngster and helped her dad with activities at the fire department. Jen became involved with the ambulance company as well; she completed her Emergency Medical Technician training and went on through national registry.  She has also trained in Emergency Vehicle Operator, instructor training, hazardous materials operations training, and EMS officer program.  She has served as lieutenant and now is the assistant chief for Thurmont Ambulance. She has countless hours of standby and has been recognized by the department as a top responder for multiple years. Jen is also a mentor to new members and EMT students and continues to assist with many activities. She is employed as a dispatcher for the 911 Center in Frederick.

Vigilant Hose Company: Jim Barto introduced recipient of Vigilant Hose Company’s honoree, Matthew Boyd.  Matt was nominated by Fire Chief Chad M. Umbel. In his remarks, Fire Chief Umbel stated that it was his honor to nominate Matthew Boyd, who has been a member of Vigilant Hose Company for 10 years and was active as a junior firefighter before obtaining operational status.  Matt’s remarkable ability to work with people and effectively organize tasks and priorities have made him a model for others to emulate and has earned him the respect of his peers.  Along the way, he has obtained many certifications and awards for exceptional service. At the Vigilant Hose Company, there is no better role model than someone who is humble and modest, who constantly strives to improve his knowledge and skill set toward the betterment of the organization; someone with a vision who is also a good listener, has a sense of humor, and can be decisive when necessary; a person of integrity, always willing to help someone else succeed. Matt has spent many hours at the station and the activities complex, utilizing his mechanical capabilities, working on and fixing whatever needs done.  Matt has worked his way up through the ranks and currently holds the position of Captain.  

Thurmont Police Department: Jim Barto introduced recipient of Thurmont Police Department’s honoree, Sgt. Dave Armstrong.  Sgt. Armstrong was nominated by Lt. P.A. Droneburg, deputy chief of police for the Thurmont Police Department. In his remarks, Lt. Droneburg stated that Sgt. Armstrong joined the Thurmont Police Department in 2012 after retiring from the Frederick Police Department. He has proven to be an asset to the department since the day he began. After serving in patrol and as a first line supervisor, Sgt. Armstrong was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2018. His service has been exemplary. He has responded to numerous call-outs for death investigations and other significant criminal investigations. His work ethic has also been outstanding.  In January 2021, Sgt. Armstrong received a compliment from a citizen (excerpt): “The sergeant then took it upon himself to look for my daughter as a missing person (as she had fled the scene), and once he found her, he took her to the hospital. I did not expect the professionalism and great concern for everyone’s safety that the officer provided.”  Sgt. Armstrong assumed the role as the agency’s training coordinator after being promoted and has developed a timeline for all mandated training.  During this past year, he attended numerous training sessions to improve his knowledge and to better serve the agency. In May 2021, Sgt. Armstrong completed a De-escalation Training Course, so he could be an instructor for the agency. In July 2021, Sgt. Armstrong received a Letter of Acknowledgement from Chief Eyler for his outstanding performance in handling a suspicious death investigation. Also during July 2021, Sgt. Armstrong nominated a citizen for a Certificate of Appreciation for their assistance with a young female found walking along a roadway. This nomination enhanced community involvement and recognition. During this past year, Sgt. Armstrong became an advocate for the skateboarding youth in town and was instrumental in assisting them with their presentation to the board of commissioners, which led to the construction of the Thurmont Skatepark. In October 2021, Sgt. Armstrong worked with the agency’s administrative coordinator to prepare for a significant CJIS Audit.  Their combined effort provided the agency with one of the best audit evaluations ever received. Sgt. Armstrong also provides daily supervisory leadership for the officers. His service to the Thurmont Police Department projects a professional image to the community with efficient and quality policy service. 

Guardian Hose Company: Niki Eyler introduced Brian Donavon, the representative for the Guardian Hose Company. In the company’s remarks, Chief Charlie Brown and President Wayne Stackhouse stated as follows: “We have decided not to pick only one person from the Guardian Hose Company to be honored, but to honor everyone that is a first responder/member in our organization. It is very hard to pick one person over another when everyone in our organization has an input to our success. There are so many people within our organization that provide a very meaningful part of the day-to-day operations, from administrative duties to responding to emergency calls. Without either one of these individuals, we could not function as a whole and be there when residents of Thurmont need us. We want to thank the Grange for thinking about our family at GHC and our mission to do our best to help the citizens of Thurmont remain safe. We hope that we can continue to assist residences in Thurmont for a long time to come.”

Chief Brown also wished to thank all of the people who came out the last week of June and supported the Guardian Hose Company during the carnival. It was a very successful week with lots of support for the town and the residents. He then went on to say that the “Guardian Hose Company has operational members who run the emergency calls, we have social members and also administrative members, all who play a special role in the organization. This past year and a half, the organization received career staff from the county. We have three people 24 hours a day to get the first piece of apparatus out the door.  The career staff and the volunteers work hand-in-hand to respond to emergency calls. With the changing world and everyone’s schedule being more involved with family priorities and work obligations, it’s hard to make sure someone is around to staff the apparatus 24 hours, seven days a week. The operational members responded to over 700 calls last year. This year, I think we are going to top that. Our area is currently in the neighborhood of 47.2 square miles of first-due area. Now, we also respond out past the state lines and county lines. We respond to Pennsylvania. We assist other counties: Franklin County and Adams County, Pennsylvania; Carroll County and Washington County, Maryland, and a few weeks ago, we were specially requested to a commercial building fire in Jefferson County, West Virginia, with our air unit. We have over 50 operational volunteers and are always looking for more to help to fill the openings. The Guardian Hose Company was organized in 1887 and provides fire and rescue services to an approximate 84 square miles, mostly all rural area. In that 84 square miles lies the Catoctin Mountain National Park, the Cunningham Falls State Park, and William Houck Area, within which the company provides service as well.”

Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company: Niki Eyler then introduced honoree for Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company, Alan Brauer, Sr.  Alan was nominated by Linda Northrup, the Awards Committee chairperson. Alan joined the fire company in July of 1963. He is also a member of the Thurmont Community Ambulance Company and the Frederick County Hazardous Incident Response Team.  He has been active with the fire service and instrumental in company training since joining. He has also held many offices and served on many committees throughout his 58 years, serving as secretary for 14 years, assistant secretary for 4 years, vice president for 2 years, and captain of the Rocky Ridge Fire Police for 11 years. He has served as captain of the fire prevention committee for 13 years, chairperson of LOSAP for the company for 18 years, and Fund Drive Committee for 7 years. He also served as the meat raffle chairperson in 2018-2019 and the drive-through ham sandwich sales in 2021.

Alan also helps with the fire company’s Santa detail two weeks before Christmas, and he helps to patrol the traffic and keep personnel safe. He provides fire police services for any need in Frederick County, especially in the northern part of the county. He is a member of the Frederick County Fire Police Association, and has served as secretary for the Frederick County Fire & Rescue Association and the Executive Committee, and was chairman of the Frederick County Fire Prevention Committee. 

At the annual Rocky Ridge Carnival for the past 47 years, Alan has been in the same stand. It just has had a few name changes over the years, from nickel pitch to glass pitch and now dime pitch. Alan has received many awards, including 1988 Lifetime honor member, and in 2018, the Charles Mumma “Firefighter of the Year Award.” He has also received the Millard “Mick” Mastrino Instructor/Safety Award at the Frederick County Fire & Rescue Association Awards Ceremony in 2005, and in 2007, received the State Instructor of the Year Award. He also has participated in several fun activities with the fire service such as the Hook Up Contest in 1971, chairman of the Halloween party, and has participated in a pie-eating contest at the Summers Farm. 

He provides Hazmat Refresher and CPR Refresher courses for the local volunteer fire companies. He also provides safety consulting services. He does CPR, OSHA, MOSHS training and other safety training all over the United States.  He has developed and implemented compliance training for the biotech, general, and construction industries across the country. He has extensive knowledge in Federal regulations, including OSHA, DOT, and EPA. He has had many years of experience in the fire service, including specialized knowledge in fire prevention, life safety, and hazardous materials.

Alan is also very involved with agriculture and is an active member of the Farm Bureau and the Grange, where he has held several offices in the local, county, and state.

When Alan spoke at the Rocky Ridge Fire Company banquet in January of 2014, he recapped his 50 years in the fire service. His ending comment was “The concept of fighting a fire has not changed from 50 years ago, we just have bigger and more expensive equipment and a lot more training.”

The members of the Thurmont Grange sincerely congratulate all of the award recipients and thank them for their service to the community and the county.

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Pictured from left are Julie Fogle (Graceham VFC #18), Niki Eyler (Thurmont Grange Lecturer), Bethany Wachter (Lewistown VFC), Brian Donovan (Guardian Hose), Alan Brauer, Sr. (Rocky Ridge VFC), and Sgt. Dave Armstrong (Thurmont Police Dept). Not pictured: Jennifer Frushour (Thurmont Ambulance) and Matt Boyd (Vigilant Hose).

Courtesy Photo

Thurmont Grange “Antique” Roadshow

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On Monday, March 28, Thurmont Grange # 409 hosted its Annual “Antique” Roadshow, with all the evening’s proceeds being donated to Sabillasville Environmental School (SES), a charter school focused on agriculture and the environment. 

The Roadshow attendees brought a wide variety of antiques and collectibles to be evaluated by our local experts, David Hunt and Lisa Cantwell, who graciously volunteered their time. Everything from butter churns and postcards to jewelry and artwork, and everything in between, were examined and evaluated. 

All guests enjoyed listening to the stories and history behind these items and learning the potential value and professional opinions of both David and Lisa. As our experts explained, sentimental value and actual value are not the same, and condition is everything when it comes to appraisals.

SES PTA President Alisha Yocum was present to receive the $500 donation Thurmont Grange was able to raise, thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended the Roadshow. 

If you are interested in joining Thurmont Grange, please contact Rodman Myers at 301-606-9221 or email thurmontgrange@gmail.com. Like them on Facebook.

Pictured are Thurmont Grange President Bob Wiles and Sabillasville Environmental School PTA President Alisha Yocum.

Thurmont Grange Offers Scholarships

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Thurmont Grange #409 is offering two scholarships to any 2022 Catoctin High School graduating senior attending a technical or trade school, community college, or four-year college. Applicants are required to submit one letter of recommendation and an essay of 250-500 words on one of three topics offered in the application. Scholarships will be awarded on June 15, 2022.

Applications may be obtained by emailing thurmontgrange@gmail.com or contacting the Catoctin High School Guidance Department (Mike Marquez at juan.marquez@fcps.org or 240-236-8082). All applications must be received by May 31, 2022.

Thurmont Grange Recognizes Members for Their Years of Service

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The Thurmont Grange #409 met on November 22, 2021, for its annual Community Citizen Award Dinner and also to recognize members of the grange for their years of service, not only for the Grange but for our community. 

Greta Lambert was recognized with a 40-year membership award.  Greta lives in Woodsboro, but previously lived in Creagerstown with her late husband, Pete. She served the office of Ceres, the 6th degree Rose Drill Team, and is a 7th degree Grange Member. She is a member of the Rocky Ridge Church of the Brethren and also assisted at the hospitality booth during the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show.

Wendall Zentz was recognized with a 50-year membership award.  Wendall could not attend many Grange meetings because of hauling cattle for Keilholtz Trucking. He is a member of the Catoctin FFA Alumni and was the first person to donate money to build the Ag Center building at Catoctin High School in 1976. This building is used to house animals and equipment for the Beef, Sheep, Swine & Goat Show during the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show.

Ethel Brauer was recognized with a 50-year membership award. Ethel was born in her grandmother’s house at Camp Airy and lived at Camp Airy until she married Alan 52 years ago. They have three children (Julieanne, Alan, and Kelly) and four grandchildren. During her membership with Thurmont Grange, Ethel was the lecturer and started Thurmont Junior Grange, where she remained the leader, along with her husband, for many years. Several Grange members were members of the Junior Grange and recalled that some of their fondest memories were the weekends spent at Camp Airy. Ethel was also involved with Grange on a county, state, and national level. During the time when Alan was state Grange master, Ethel served as a national delegate. She was Frederick County Pomona Master, State Junior Grange director and chaired the Education Committee at the National Grange Convention. In 1972, Ethel and Alan were Grange Young Couple of the Year. In addition to Grange and raising three children, Ethel was a very busy lady. She has been a member of Weller Church for 64 years, where she has been the Sunday School Superintendent and a choir member. She taught social studies for FCPS for 3 years and for 26 years at St. John’s. Ethel has been a member of the Farm Bureau Women’s Committee, editor of the Catoctin Enterprise, and a 62-year member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, where she was a founding member of the Jr. Auxiliary.

Alan Brauer was recognized with a 50-year membership award. Alan was the Thurmont Grange master from 1972-1975; Frederick County Pomona Grange master in the late 1970s, and the Maryland State Grange master from 1983-1989. Alan knew the ritualistic work very well and was very good at code reading. Ethel and Alan installed officers and were on the degree team. Alan was a member of the Farm Safety Committee and also testified on bills in Annapolis and Washington for the National Grange. He was a member of the Ag Commission, Farm Visitation Committee, chairman of the Maryland Ag Dinner, and has been a member of the Rocky Ridge Fire Company for 59 years, where he has served as secretary and vice president. Alan also helps with the Rocky Ridge butchering meat sales, helps with the Fire Police, and handled parking for the Community Show for several years. Alan is just completing a term as president of the Weller United Methodist Church Council and is the newly elected president of the Emmitsburg High School for the second time.

Peg Long was recognized with a 60-year membership award. Peg joined the Lewistown Grange in the late 1950s. She was living with her grandparents, the Leatherman family. Her uncle John asked her to join, as he was master at the time. When election of officers came around, she was selected as secretary. She served as secretary until the Grange disbanded about 14 years later. Peg recalls the Grange being very active, doing community service, holding family picnics every summer, as well as an annual Christmas party with entertainment. She participated in the Pomona Grange contests, such as baking and sewing, and still has a dress she made that received a blue ribbon. She served on the Pomona Grange Degree Drill team and always prepared a booth for the Frederick Fair, along with other County Granges to display fresh produce and fruit. Peg said it was always a challenge and fun to select a title for the backboard to describe the exhibit. Peg also helps with the judging at the Community Show and with taking entries. Peg recently received her 65-year county and state certificate for being an organizational leader and volunteer of the Lewistown Mt. View 4-H Club from the University of Maryland. Peg and her husband Cap recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary and are members of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Utica.

James Moser was recognized with a 70-year membership certificate. James is married to Sandy Kifer Moser for 60 years and has all seven Grange degrees. He is an active member of the Thurmont United Methodist Church and was the youth leader. While raising his family, he and Sandy bowled for the Grange. He participated in the one-act plays, helped with Grange float construction, the fair booth, and the Community Show. He served as Grange master from 1964-1965, 1991-1995, and 1999-2003. He served as the master for the Frederick County Pomona Grange from 1974-1978 and served on the Pomona Grange and State Grange Executive Committee. He also served as the Frederick County Pomona Grange treasurer for 30 years. He also represented the Grange on Johnson grass, and was the co-chair of the Farm Bureau/Grange/Soil Conservation Legislative Day; Citizens Zoning Review Council; Frederick County Historic Preservation Council, and served as a director for the Thurmont Cooperative, Inc. for 12 years; Dairymen, Inc. for 10 years; and for 5 years has donated white blood cells and platelets at Johns Hopkins for cancer patients. His father, George Moser, served as master of the Grange from 1954-55, and his Uncle Lester Moser served as master from 1959-1960. His brother, Joe Moser, served as master of the Grange in 1966. In 1950, Jim Moser, Joe Moser, and Rodman Myers played on the Creagerstown 4-H basketball championship team.

Russell Moser was recognized with a 70-year membership certificate. Russell is married to Sidney Caullel for 65 years in January. They have three children, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Russell served in the Army for three years and the National Guard for eight years.  Russell was honored at the 1st Grange Veterans Day program for his service to our country. He always represents the Thurmont Grange at the Memorial Day program, which is sponsored by the Thurmont American Legion. Russell’s Grange activities include helping to dip ice cream during Colorfest, and he was also a member of the Grange bowling team, softball team, and basketball team. He played in a benefit game for the heart fund against Thurmont High School team. He was a member of the Creagerstown independent baseball team and Thurmont baseball team. He enjoys attending Mount St. Mary’s basketball games. Russell and Rodman Myers once attended a banquet at Cozy Restaurant, where James Phelan, coach of the Mount St. Mary’s basketball team was the speaker. He referred to them as the M&M Boys (Moser and Myers). Years ago, Russell built many wooden tables for the Community Show, and he always helps to haul tables and to set up and clean up for the Community Show. He and Sidney helped with junior Grange projects. Russell worked as a bridge inspector for the State of Maryland and helped design and build Maple Run Golf Course on the family farm.

Pictured from left: (front row) Ethel and Alan Brauer; (back row) Niki Eyler, Thurmont Grange Lecturer; Becky Long Chaney, Rianna Chaney and Sheridan Chaney (representing Peg Long), Bob Wiles (president), Jim Moser, Sandy Moser, Rodman Myers, Russell Moser, and Jane Savage (secretary).

Courtesy Photo

Thurmont Grange’s Community Citizen Award Recipients

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The following individuals were recognized by the Thurmont Grange with the Grange Community Citizen Awards, both of whom generously volunteer their time to serve our community through programs that fulfill a great need: the Clothes Closet and the Thurmont Food Bank.

The first recipient of the Community Citizen Award is Sandy Moser from the Clothes Closet. Sandy was born and raised in Thurmont. She has been married to Jim Moser for 60 years. Jim and Sandy have five children, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Sandy has been a member of Thurmont Grange for 60 years. She is a 7th degree member and over the years has served as Grange lecturer and all the Graces. She is also a lifelong member of Thurmont United Methodist Church where she has been a youth leader with her husband, as well as youth director. Her involvement with the church is how she found her way to the Clothes Closet.

Thurmont United Methodist Church organized the Clothes Closet over 50 years ago to serve an apparent need for families in the surrounding communities with clothes, shoes, coats, bedding, and towels. Sandy has been volunteering with the Clothes Closet for the last 15 years. She is currently the distribution chairperson. Sandy, with the help of other volunteers, inspects clothing for defects, displays and organizes clothing, and oversees the Clothes Closet during open hours. She is also available for emergency calls, such as individuals needing outfits for interviews, weddings, or funerals, or children removed from their homes and put into foster care without any of their belongings. Sandy sees that clothes are distributed to other organizations, such as the Frederick Rescue Mission, Healthy Families of Frederick, Mountain Manor, Emmitsburg Pregnancy Center, and a mission in Honduras. She sees that all donations are put to use. Even those that are not suitable for wear are given to the Rescue Mission, who sells them as rags to support their efforts or to local veterinarians to use as towels and sheets.

The Clothes Closet sponsors a Christmas Open House the first Monday in December. There is a toy shop with new and gently used toys for newborns up to teens. The Thurmont United Methodist Church also provides each family with a Walmart gift card.  Families can also pick up Christmas trees, decorations, and other holiday items at the open house.

The Clothes Closet has been church-sponsored for over 50 years. Currently, there are 6 board members and 32 volunteers. They receive approximately 150 bags of donations every week and are able to serve 60 families per month. These families come from a 12-miles radius with three to five new families each month. The Clothes Closet is open the first and fourth Monday evenings and the third Tuesday morning of each month. Sandy stated that many people come not only for clothes but also for fellowship and prayer.

The second recipient is Pastor Sally Joyner Giffin from Harriet Chapel and also director of The Thurmont Food Bank. Over the course of her life, Pastor Sally has resided in many states, from Virginia to Vermont, before finding her way to Frederick County and Harriet Chapel. She and her husband, John, have been married for 40 years. They have two children, a daughter who lives in Colorado and a son who lives in Frederick.

The Thurmont Food Bank has been assisting families since the 1970s.  It has been housed in several locations, always outgrowing the space. Eventually, the opportunity arose for the Food Bank to rent the former Town Office building. This larger space allowed room for freezers and refrigerators to be installed, which expanded the types of food that can be distributed. 

Pastor Sally has been involved with the Thurmont Food Bank for 15 years and has served as its director for the past 14 years. She oversees some 40 volunteers who unload trucks, collect donations, stock shelves, distribute food, and handle the monetary donation jars that are placed around the community. Donations come in from churches, civic organizations, businesses, the police department, the post office, the boy scouts, and individuals. The Town of Thurmont is also a huge supporter, providing regular shipments of food in large supply. In addition to food, the food bank also distributes hygiene items such as shampoo, soap, and shaving supplies; adult Depends; diapers; baby food; laundry detergent; paper products; and gas vouchers for those who have medical appointments but can’t afford gas to get there. No food donations go to waste at the Thurmont Food Bank.  Expired items are given to the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and local farmers who feed them to their animals.

The Thurmont Food Bank is supported by the Ministerium, which is comprised of faith-based organizations and churches throughout Lewistown, Thurmont, Rocky Ridge, Utica, and Sabillasville. Through the Ministerium, there is assistance available for other needs such as emergency homelessness by providing a few nights’ stay in a local motel and financial assistance for medical bills that is coordinated through Seton Center.

There are times of the year when the Thurmont Food Bank is able to provide something extra for the families they serve. The food bank coordinates the Christmas gift program by finding sponsors for children and the elderly or shut-ins who may not otherwise receive a gift at Christmas. Additionally, during the Christmas season, the Colorfest Committee donates 200 hams to the food bank. At Thanksgiving, 220 turkeys are distributed, with all the trimmings, for a Thanksgiving meal. At Easter, hams are provided to families as well.

The Thurmont Food Bank sees 200-300 families per month. That equates to between 1,000 and 1,400 people. Each month, approximately 7,000 pounds of food are distributed to these families. The Thurmont Food Bank is open every Tuesday, 5:00-7:30 p.m., and every Friday, 4:00-6:00 p.m. Pastor Sally stated that the Thurmont Food Bank is an amazing organization, made up of many donors and volunteers. One does not realize how many lives are touched, not just the families assisted by the food bank, but also the lives of those who make the food bank possible.

 Both recipients wished to acknowledge all of the other volunteers with the Clothes Closet and the Thurmont Food Bank, who assist them with all of the activities, programs, etc. and provide a better life for those less fortunate.

Pictured from left: Nancy Richardson, past chairman of Thurmont Clothes Closet; Denise Bentley, chairman of the Board of Thurmont Clothes Closet; Sandy Moser, Community Citizen Award recipient; and Niki Eyler, Thurmont Grange lecturer.

Thurmont Grange Veterans Appreciation Program

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On October 13, 2021, Thurmont Grange #409 held its annual Veterans Appreciation Program. Grange member Niki Eyler stated that the Veterans being honored were, “all honorable, upstanding, and respectable members of their families, churches, and communities.” 

A special recognition of Veteran and past-Granger, Ralph Fornwald, was given by Cheryl Lenhart. Ralph was born August 30, 1924, the son of Charles and Hilda Fornwald. The Fornwald family moved to Thurmont when Ralph was 12 years old. He graduated from Thurmont High School in 1942, where he served as vice president of the graduating class. Not even a year after graduation, Ralph joined the Navy on March 10, 1943, serving until July 19, 1946, as Hospital Apprentice First Class. During his service, Ralph was awarded the WWII Victory Medal, the American Theatre Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. After his military service, Ralph became involved in his church and community. He was a member of Graceham Moravian Church, AMVETS Post 7, Thurmont American Legion Post 168, and Thurmont Grange #409. He also served on the Thurmont Library Board and Thurmont Park Commission. Ralph retired from NIH, and after retirement, worked at Jubilee in Thurmont. He enjoyed gardening and fishing.

In addition to this special recognition, Thurmont Grange will honor Ralph with a banner in the Thurmont Military Banner Program, sponsored by the Thurmont Lions Club. Also, members of Scout Troup 270 folded the American flag and presented it to Ralph’s children, Beverly Weddle, Debbie Fornwald, and Doug Fornwald in honor of Ralph’s service to our country.

The guest speaker for the evening was Priscilla Rall, who spoke of her involvement in the Frederick County Veterans History Project, which is a partner in the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. Priscilla started volunteering with the Veterans History Project in 2004 and was director for the last five years. Over the past 15 years, she has interviewed 120 Veterans, including Russ Delauter, one of the evening’s honorees. The interviews are video recorded and housed at the Library of Congress along with photographs, letters and diaries of veterans.

The evening’s Veteran recognition began with a roll call of those honored at the Grange’s previous programs. Those named were Frederick Tresselt, Robert Remsberg, Ralph Fornwald, Joseph G. Eyler, Raymond Ediger, John Hart, Joseph Moser, Russell Moser, Robert Wiles, William Zentz, Douglas Zimmerman, Larry Clabaugh, Maurice Wiles, Bryan Umberger, Alton Hoopengardner, Ed Gravatt, Raymond Long, Valeria Kilby, James Kilby, and Wayne Wireman.

Next, the evenings honorees were called: Carie Stafford (Air Force 91-05), Ed Superczynski (Navy 61-66), Pete Knill (Navy Seabee 76-82), Russ Delauter (Army 48-52), Bruce Rice (Army 75-00), Ken Angleberger (Army 52-54), Felicia Albert (Navy 75-95), Frankie Valentine (Navy 51-55), and Bernard Hobbs (Army National Guard 76-15). Honorees were met with a round of applause in appreciation of their selfless service in the United States Armed Forces.

Lastly, a moment of silence was observed for recently-departed Grange member and Air Force veteran, Joseph G. Eyler, as well as those who had lost their lives defending our country. Before parting for the evening, those in attendance enjoyed refreshments and fellowship. If you are interested in joining Thurmont Grange, please contact Rodman Myers at 301-606-9221.

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Thurmont Grange Veterans Night: Honorees are (from left) Carie Stafford, Frankie Valentine, Ed Supersynski, Pete Knill, Russ Delauter, Bruce Rice, Felicia Albert, and Bernard Hobbs, with presernter Niki Eyler.

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 Grange Hosts Its Second Annual Veterans Appreciation Program

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On June 6, 2019, Thurmont Grange #409 hosted it’s second annual Veterans Appreciation Program. 

The evening began with a welcome by Thurmont Grange Lecturer Niki Eyler. Grange members, Jim Moser and Addison Eyler, lead the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. Boy Scout Troop 270 presented the flag folding ceremony, while Granger Sandy Moser gave the meaning of each fold of the flag. Following was a special honor of veteran and Granger John Hart, who passed earlier this year. Members of Boy Scout Troop 270 presented his wife, Cindy Hart, and daughter, Carrie Shives, with the folded flag in memory of John and his service to our country. For all guests, it was very touching to watch the flag folding ceremony, learn its meaning, and be part of its presentation in honor of one of our local veterans.

One of Thurmont Grange’s 2018 community service projects was making a Quilt of Valor. This beautiful quilt was created by not only several Grange members, but also the Rocky Ridge Progressive 4-H Sewing Club and Thurmont resident, Bev Eckenrode. The quilt was presented to Wacahu Grange member, Alton Hoopengardner, at the 2018 MD State Grange Conference. To make that presentation even more special, a second quilt was donated and presented to Linganore Grange member, Maurice Wiles. A PowerPoint presentation, narrated by Niki Eyler, was shared with Veterans Appreciation Program guests, which summarized the quilt from yards of material to the presentation of both quilts. To highlight this, the quilts were on display for everyone to admire.  

The evenings honorees were recommended by Thurmont Grangers and friends of Thurmont Grange. Those recognized were James Kilby (Navy 84-05), Valaria Kilby (Navy 88-92), Wayne Wireman (Army 70-72), Bryan Umberger (Marines 91-97 & Army 97-11), Raymond Long (Army 54-56), Maurice Wiles (Army 56-62), Larry Clabaugh (Navy 69-77), Alton Hoopengardner (Army 62-65), Ed Gravatt (Air Force 61-69) and Douglas Zimmerman (Air Force 78-95). It was definitely a privilege to say “Thank you for your service!” to these selfless men and women who chose to serve in the United States Armed Forces.

As June 6 was the 75th anniversary of D-Day, Thurmont Mayor John Kinnaird said a few words, and respectfully asked for a moment of silence in remembrance of those who bravely fought that day and those who gave their lives on the beaches of Normandy in the name of freedom. 

The evening’s program was ended with a prayer, read by Sandy Moser and the singing of “God Bless America.” Many guests and honorees remained to enjoy refreshments, fellowship, conversation about the importance of June 6, and reminisce about their years of service. 

If you are interested in learning more about Thurmont Grange, please call Rodman Myers at 301-271-2104 or Niki Eyler at 301-471-5158.

Honored veterans (from left): (back row) Doug Zimmerman, Larry Clabaugh, Maurice Wiles, Bryan Umberger; (front row) Niki Eyler (Granger), Linda Bernstein (accepting on behalf of Alton Hoopengardner), Ed Gravatt, Raymond Long, Valaria Kilby, Wayne Wireman, James Kilby, and Carol Long (Granger).

Scout Troop 270 flag folding ceremony participants (from left): Annalisa Russell, Adre Russell, Seth Young, and Tanner Seiss.

Addison, Jody and Niki Eyler admiring Maurice Wiles’ Quilt of Valor.

2019 Plans for 63rd Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show

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The Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show committee met recently to begin planning the 63rd Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show.  The show will be held at Catoctin High School, located at 14745 Sabillasville Road in Thurmont, on September 6-8, 2019. 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, Denise Valentine, Amanda and Paul Dennis, Clifford Stewart, Helen Troxell, Cathy Little, Karen Myers, Nancy Wine, Patty Johnston, Jim Barth, Kay Barth, Thad Bittner, Amy Jo Poffenberger, Daniel Myers, Sierra Weatherly, Josie Kaas, Cheyenne Van Echo, Alexis Morgan, and Robert Hahn.

On Friday night, the 2019-2020 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced. In addition, this year’s program will honor the 100th anniversary of the American Legion of Thurmont and Emmitsburg and the 50th anniversary of the Seton Center in Emmitsburg. 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. 

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. Judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. Commercial exhibits may be entered on Friday, September 6, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The show will open to the public at 6:00 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 turkey and country ham dinner in the school cafeteria on Saturday night, from 3:00-7:00 p.m. Entertainment for Saturday and Sunday will be announced at a later date. There will be no admission charged for the entertainment.

The 45th 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 8, 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 noon. 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, and the 40th Annual Robert Kaas Horseshoe Pitching Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m.

Exhibits must be removed on Sunday, September 8, from 3:00-6:00 p.m.  Please note the new deadline to pick up items.

Soon, the community show booklets may 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 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 the 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.

Thurmont Grange Hosts Annual Antique Roadshow Fundraiser

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The Thurmont Grange #409 hosted it’s annual “Antique Roadshow” fundraiser on Monday, March 25, 2019.  Many Grangers and community members brought their antiques, family heirlooms, and keepsakes to be evaluated by local experts, David Hunt, Denny Black, and Larry Hauver. Everything from clocks to baseballs and toy trains to silver tea sets were held up for everyone to see. This event is always enjoyable and interesting, as attendees hear the history behind cherished items, as well as their potential value. 

The funds raised from the Antique Roadshow are always donated to a local individual or family in need of community support. This year, the Grange was proud to make a $500 donation to Kinna Strong, through the Patty Pollatos Fund, Inc.  Kinna Strong is a fund which lends support to the Kinna family, a Thurmont family who has always been very active in the community, despite their own medical challenges. Melissa and her son, Nolan, are both battling life-threatening illnesses. It was such an honor to have the entire Kinna family join the Grange for the event. One can definitely gain a sense of strength from this family and their positive outlook. Kinna Strong is really the best way to describe them!

If you are interested in learning more about the Grange or about becoming a member, please contact Rodman Myers at 301-606-9221 or Niki Eyler at 301-471-5158. 

Pictured from left are Grange President Bob Wiles, Grange Lecturer Niki Eyler, Melissa Kinna, Wyatt Kinna, Nolan Kinna, and Nick Kinna  (back row).

Rocky Ridge Progressive 4-H Club Keeps Busy Helping Others

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McKenzi Forrest, Rocky Ridge 4-H Reporter

Rocky Ridge Progressive 4-H Club is always extremely active, and March and April were no exception.

We had our annual Sandwich Sale fundraiser, where we made over 2,000 sandwiches. Even with so many sandwiches to make, our club showed awesome teamwork and really had a good time making them. Thank you to all of our continued supporters for making our fundraiser so successful.

Our Community Service projects consisted of making St. Patrick’s Day notes for all of the residents at St. Catherine’s in Emmitsburg, as well as collecting supplies for the Thurmont Grange. We had several club members challenge their knowledge by participating in a Skill-A-Thon; they did a great job and look forward to more opportunities to broaden their knowledge.  

Kudos to the Rocky Ridge Progressive 4-H for serving our community so well—keep up all the hard work! Also, good luck to everyone participating in the Will’s Fair at Howard County Fairgrounds in May.

The Rocky Ridge Progressive 4-H Club collects supplies for the Thurmont Grange.

Catoctin’s Volunteer of the Year

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John Dowling Receives Awards for his Volunteer Work

James Rada, Jr.

2018 was quite a year for John Dowling, age seventy-five, of Thurmont. The Thurmont Lions Club, Thurmont Grange, and Mother Seton School all recognized his abundant volunteer work in the area.

“I guess I’m involved just about everywhere,” Dowling said. “It’s in my blood.”

Last fall, Dowling’s work was recognized three times.

Mother Seton School recognized him for his thirty-six years of work at the Mother Seton School annual carnival. Dowling and his wife, Kathryn, got involved with the carnival when their children attended the school. Besides helping to start the carnival at the school, the Dowlings also launched the successful bingo and auction fundraisers for the school. The work started as a way to reduce the tuition at Mother Seton School for their children, but it turned into a labor of love, even after their kids graduated and moved onto Catoctin High School.

The Thurmont Lions Club recognized Dowling as the Thurmont Volunteer of the Year. He was nominated for his work at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church and the Thurmont Senior Center. He was awarded a certificate of recognition and gift certificate for dinner at the Shamrock Restaurant at a town meeting. He was also able to designate where a $400 donation from the Thurmont Lions Club would be donated in his name. Dowling chose to split the money between the Thurmont Senior Center and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.

The Thurmont Grange also recognized Dowling with its Outstanding Community Citizen Award.

These aren’t the first awards that he has received for his community work. In the past few years, the Archdiocese of Baltimore and State of Maryland have recognized Dowling for his volunteerism.

Dowling said that he was “dumbfounded” with all of the awards last year. He considers helping his community almost an obligation.

Dowling may be retired from his appliance repair business, but he still puts in ten to twelve hours a week of volunteer work. He also continues to run a small woodworking business from his home.

“We’re here on this earth to benefit our fellow citizens,” he said.

Dowling grew up in a family of twelve children in Montgomery County, and his parents set the example for volunteerism. He remembers his mother organizing an annual dinner to benefit Montgomery General Hospital and helping his father plant grass when a new high school was built.

When he moved to the area in 1968 as a young man with a wife, he brought with him the values his parents had instilled in him. He began helping out whenever he could.

“I would help out with anything dealing with the community, because the community is an important part of the lives of everyone who lives in it,” expressed Dowling.

Of all the various places where he provides service, he considers his work with the Thurmont Senior Center the most important. He serves on the center’s board and knows how great the center’s need for help is. He picks up day-old bread from Weis that is used at the center, gives rides to and from the center to seniors in need, delivers hot meals from the Mountain Gate Restaurant to home-bound seniors, and helps with the general maintenance of equipment around the center.

The values of service to the community that Dowling’s parents taught him are something that he and Kathryn have also been able to instill in their own children.

“All of my kids do a lot of volunteer work, and they’re all successful,” Dowling said.

Community Show Kicks Off Catoctin High 50th Anniversary

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James Rada, Jr.

For 62 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 7-9. More than $13,000 in prizes were awarded to the hundreds of exhibitors.

On one end of the school, area residents spread out artwork, agricultural items and baked foods in the large gym. On the opposite end of the school, other students groomed animals preparing to show them. In between these two points, businesses and local civic organizations displayed their services and purposes.

The show is sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin High’s FFA Chapter, Catoctin Area FFA Alumni, the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board, and the Maryland State Grange. It comes together each year through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers.

The line for the Thurmont Regional Library’s annual used book sale began forming even before the community show’s 6:00 p.m. start time Friday evening.

The show opened with its traditional flag ceremony highlighting all of northern Frederick County’s civic and public service organizations. The evening honored the 50th anniversary of the opening of Catoctin High School.

Catoctin High’s current Principal Bernie Quesada and all of Catoctin’s former principals — with some of them in attendance — were recognized for their contribution to the Catoctin community. “They’ve all had distinguished careers and made a difference in thousands of lives of young people,” Quesada said.

Catoctin High was born in turmoil but has since become a binding force for northern Frederick County. It is due, in part, to the efforts of these men and women who led the school and fostered its growth with the community.

Dr. Harper Long, Catoctin’s first principal who currently resides in Iowa, wrote an e-mail to Principal Bernie Quesada, saying, “One of Mr. Goodrich’s and my highest priorities that first year was to bring together the communities of Emmitsburg and Thurmont. The Board of Education’s site selection for the new school did not sit well with either community. Both towns wanted the new school to be nearer their town. Since we could do nothing to alter the physical position of the school building, we tried to bring the two communities together. We all worked to develop respect for each others’ needs.” It is a mission that all of these principals have worked at accomplishing.

The professionals who served as Catoctin High School’s principals since its opening include Bernard Quesada (2010 – current), Jack Newkirk (2005 – 2010), Ann Bonitatibus (2001 – 2005), Marlene “Marty” Tarr (1996 – 2001), Earl Miller (1984 – 1996), Bruce Brown (1983 – 1984), James Fisher (1977 – 1983), Harper Long (1969 – 1977), and Howard Goodrich (1969).

During the opening ceremony, Catoctin High student Robert Hahn was chosen as the school’s FFA ambassador for the coming year.

National Grange Master Betsy Huber congratulated the community on putting together the show each year. She said, “Grangers everywhere are involved in fairs and shows like this one because we’re all doers.”

Frederick County Superintendent of Schools Theresa Alban said, “I sit here every year and find different inspiration.”

After the opening ceremony on Friday evening, the Community Show’s events continued through the weekend and featured a baked goods auction, a livestock auction, a petting zoo, music, pony rides, a pet show, a horseshoe pitching contest, log sawing contest and much more.

The Thurmont and Emmitsburg Community Show is the largest in the State of Maryland. It is exemplary. The strength of the show and the strength of agriculture in northern Frederick County stands on the shoulders of the volunteers who proudly teach and carry that heritage forward from generation to generation.

 
 
  
  
  
 
 
Photos by Deb Abraham Spalding, Gracie Eyler, Blair Garrett, and Taylor Clarke

Front row left to right: Jan Gardner, Frederick County Executive; Betsy Huber, National Grange President; Jennifer Martin, Secretary of the Community Show Committee; Mary Fisher, widow of Dr. James Fisher former CHS Principal; Marty Tarr, former CHS Principal; Cathy Little, Asst. Treasurer of the Community Show Committee; Robert Hahn, Catoctin FFA Ambassador.

Back row left to right: Dave Harman, Community Show Committee member; Bob Valentine, Vice-President of the Community Show Committee; Daniel Myers, Community Show Committee member; Rodman Myers, President of the Community Show Committee; Earl Miller, former CHS Principal; Jack Newkirk, former CHS Principal; Bruce Brown, former CHS Principal; Bernie Quesada, current CHS Principal; Terry Alban, Superintendent of Frederick County Public Schools; Amy Jo Poffenberger, CHS Agriculture Education Teacher.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

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Thank You

The sponsoring organizations, consisting of the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA, and Catoctin FFA Alumni, would like to thank those individuals who helped with the 61st Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show. We sincerely thank the community businesses and individuals for advertising and sponsoring our show booklet, as we had excellent attendance and great community support during the entire event.

During the opening ceremonies, approximately thirty-five community organizations participated in the opening flag ceremony on Friday evening, led in a bagpipe processional by Bill and Andrew Douwes. Addison Eyler, Rocky Ridge 4H Club and Thurmont Grange member, sang the “Star Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America” during the program. Along with many county and local officials, we were honored to have Superintendent of Frederick County Public Schools Dr. Theresa Alban give remarks. Stacey Brown Hobbs, president of St. John’s Christian Preschool of Thurmont, announced the 2017-2018 Catoctin FFA Ambassador, Stephanie Moreland. We honored the 50th anniversaries of WTHU Radio Station of Thurmont and the St. John’s Christian Preschool of Thurmont.  Special thanks extended to the many exhibitors who entered items at the show, and to the over 150 new exhibitors this year, which is a reflection of how our show has grown over the years.

We had approximately 280 baked products entered and sold at our baked products sale. The grand champion cake (a chiffon cake), made by Dawn Hobbs of Rocky Ridge, was purchased by Mountaingate Restaurant for $1,050. Monies received from the silver offering, and the Junior and Youth Department Champion Cakes, totaling $1,100, was donated equally to the Thurmont Food Bank and the Emmitsburg Food Bank.

Bob Valentine, livestock chairman of the Community Show, was pleased with the results of John Nichols of Pennsylvania, who judged the Beef, Sheep, Swine & Goat Show. The livestock sale on Saturday evening was well attended and the sale averages were: beef ($2.32 lb.); sheep ($3.50 lb.); swine ($2.54 lb.); and goats ($262.00/head).

The dairy and goat show was also held on Sunday and was judged by Katie Albaugh of Walkersville. Our show is viewed as a learning experience for many 4-H and FFA youth, who later exhibit at the Frederick Fair, Maryland State Fair, and other shows and sales.

Many individuals helped with the pony rides, petting zoo, alpaca display (by Lynn Cherish of Baggy Britches Farm), litter of pigs (by Chip and Logan Long), horseshoe pitching, log sawing, and martial arts programs; the Thurmont Grange Turkey & Ham Dinner; the Catoctin FFA Alumni Bar-B-Que; and the Beef, Sheep and Swine Show and sale.

We would also like to thank all of the department superintendents and the many volunteers who helped to take entries, hauled tables, and helped in any way to make our show excellent, and also to the many commercial exhibitors, including the Thurmont History display by John Kinnaird and the Thurmont Library for sponsoring its annual book sale, as well as to the many other commercial and animal displays that make our event community oriented.

We would also like to thank the Taylor Brown – Elvis Tribute Artist and “Catoctin the Band” for their performances to a large crowds on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.

Many families who attended the show were able to enjoy participation in the pony rides, the kiddie pedal pull, the cross cut sawing, the pet show, the decorated animal contest, and the horseshoe pitching contest.

Special thanks to Bollinger’s Restaurant for sponsoring a free meal ticket to all department champions and our food stand vendors; the Catoctin High School Junior Class and Thurmont Lions Club were busy all weekend with sales. We would also like to thank all of the individuals, businesses, and families for sponsoring show awards, for purchasing baked goods at our cake sale, and for supporting our livestock show and sale.

In addition, we would also like to thank CHS Principal Bernie Quesada and the entire faculty, cafeteria, and custodial staff for their professionalism, cooperation, and understanding during the show.

The Community Show is an agricultural educational event and is a total community effort.  Many community citizens volunteer many hours to make the show one that our area can be very proud of, and visitors comment on the large amount and quality of entries. These efforts are appreciated by the show sponsors: Thurmont Grange; Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni, The Maryland State Grange, and the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board.

The 2018 Community Show dates are September 7-9, 2018, at Catoctin High School in Thurmont.

— President C. Rodman Myers, Vice President Robert N. Valentine, Secretary Jennifer Martin, Catoctin FFA

    Chapter Advisor Amy Poffenberger

Thurmont Grange Honors Brian Hendrickson

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comm-news-hendricksonPictured from left are Daivd Miller, Bob Valentine, Brian Hendrickson, Rodman Myers, and Amy Jo Poffenberger.

On November 28, 2016, Thurmont Grange #409 hosted its annual Community Citizen Award dinner, which recognizes a member of our community who strives to make a difference. This year, Brian Hendrickson, a teacher in the agricultural department at Catoctin High School and one of the Catoctin High School FFA Chapter advisors, was honored.

Mr. Hendrickson has been a teacher and FFA advisor at Catoctin High School for the past eight years, but his lengthy resume began before he came to Catoctin. He grew up with a father who was also an Ag teacher. Hendrickson attended the University of Wisconsin at River Falls; after graduation, he became an Ag teacher and FFA advisor in Wisconsin for twenty-eight years. He has assisted many students in receiving their state FFA degrees and the American degree. He has excelled in advising students to become national FFA finalists and winners. Hendrickson has also offered professional development workshops, traveled nationally to conduct state workshops, filled in for national FFA staff, and served as a judge on the national level. He has even worked to gain approval for Ag education courses at the university level in Wisconsin.

Since Hendrickson has come to Catoctin High School, his past experience and his dedication to the students have helped many achieve goals and recognition, not only on a state level, but nationally as well.  Under Hendrickson’s guidance, many Catoctin students were able to receive grants and scholarships from the National FFA. Many Catoctin graduates have gone on to hold state FFA offices. He has also worked closely with the FFA alumni, hosted the MD Foundation Showcase at Catoctin, conducted a MD Alumni Computer Training Workshop, held a workshop for MD teachers, and assisted with Ag Mechanics events. In addition, Hendrickson has played a vital role in the planning and running of the Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show each year since his arrival at Catoctin.  Thanks to him, students at all Catoctin area feeder schools have the opportunity to enter and show their animals and Ag-related projects at this event.

Unfortunately, Hendrickson will be leaving Catoctin High School.  It became obvious how this change is affecting members of our community, as guests stood to say a few words about the evening’s honoree.  Several were brought to tears as they shared their thoughts and appreciation for all that Brian Hendrickson has done for them or their children or grandchildren.  Jim Barth thanked Hendrickson from the bottom of his heart. His wife, Kay Barth, added, “You pushed our daughter to do things she never thought she could.”  Bob Valentine said, “You brought the biggest ray of sunshine to Catoctin’s FFA program ever.” These heartfelt comments were repeated over and over, as each expressed their gratitude to Hendrickson.

Closing remarks were given by David Miller of the MD Ag Education Foundation, expressing the impact Hendrickson has had on Ag teachers and students—locally, statewide, and nationally.  He shared how impressed he was with Hendrickson’s ability to encourage his students to apply for state and national FFA awards and to strive to become winners.  He also said that Hendrickson “always has the students’ best interest in mind; he is an advocate for students and a students’ teacher.”

Thurmont Grange #409 was honored to recognize Brian Hendrickson for all his contributions and dedication to the students of Catoctin High School and its surrounding community.

Thurmont Grange Represented at 142nd Maryland State Grange Session

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Thurmont Grange #409 was well represented at the 142nd Maryland State Grange Session, which was held October 20-22, 2016, at The FSK American Legion in Frederick. Several state executive positions were held by Thurmont members this year: Roger Troxell, State Chaplain and Community Service Chairman; Cheryl Lenhart, Historian; and Jim Moser, Transportation & Roads Chairman. Rodman Myers, Roger Troxell, and Jim Moser also served on the Agriculture Legislative Committee. During the State Conference, many items were discussed and proposed for potential legislative change.

On Thursday evening, Thurmont members Jody and Addison Eyler were obligated in the 4th and 5th degrees and also took the 6th degree. Niki and Addison Eyler participated in the ceremonial Rose Drill. The evening ended with an ice cream social hosted by Thurmont Grange and the Family Activities Committee.

The Agricultural Awards Banquet, held on Friday evening, was opened with “The Star Spangled Banner,” sung by Addison Eyler, and the invocation was given by Roger Troxell. Everyone enjoyed a tasty meal, followed by speakers, Allen Stiles, Maryland State Master, and Amanda Brosana, National Lecturer. The evening’s awards for Thurmont Grange included first place in Membership Gain with six new members; first place in Community Service Report, submitted by Niki Eyler; Agriculture Scholarship received by Hannah Barth; and several photography, painting, and baking awards received by Cheryl Lenhart and Andrea Mannix.

All members of the Thurmont Grange are due recognition for their dedication to volunteering where needed and serving our community. If you are interested in joining the Thurmont Grange, contact Rodman Myers at 301-271-2104.
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Pictured from left are Thurmont Master Rodman Myers, Thurmont Lecturer Niki Eyler, and State Community Service Chairperson Roger Troxell.

Rocky Ridge 4-H Club Holds Annual Banquet and Achievement Night

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Submitted by Natalie Bentz and Payton Troxell, Rocky Ridge 4-H Reports

On November 6, 2016, the Rocky Ridge Progressive 4-H Club held their Annual 4-H Banquet and Achievement Night. Special quests, community members, and 4-H families were in attendance.  The night started off with appetizers, prepared by the Rocky Ridge 4-H Club’s cooking group. Payton Troxell delivered the Invocation, followed by a potluck meal prepared by the member’s families. Austin Ridenour, the Club’s 2016 vice president, gave the banquet welcome. Club Leader Brenda Seiss talked about how proud she was of every member and all the positive things they have done throughout the year. She thanked the families for their time and support.

Jason Baust led the American Pledge, and Kelsey Troxell lead the 4-H Pledge. All had the pleasure of listening to Addison Eyler sing “Baltimore and Me.” Next, Nikita Miller introduced all the guests invited to the banquet and asked them to stand for recognition. Caroline Clark, FC Sheep Ambassador; Payton Troxell, FC Beef Ambassador; and Samantha Bentz, Royalty Ambassador, were in attendance.

During the evening, several awards were presented to members in the Club. Club Record Book awards were given to Mckenzie Forrest (first-year member), Caroline Clark (junior member), Kallan Latham (intermediate member), and Nikita Miller (senior member). Club Demonstration Awards were given to Katie Glass (first-year member), Caroline Clark (junior member), Jake Kenney (intermediate member), and Brietta Latham (senior member). Members were also recognized for their achievements throughout the year. The Senior Award was received by Margo Sweeney; Intermediate Award to Payton Troxell; Junior Award to Madison Ohler; and Braydon Wetzel for first-year member.

Special gifts were given to those Club members who participate in the specialty groups throughout the year. These groups were the Craft Group, led by Mrs. Dutton; the Cooking Group, led by Mrs. McAfee and Mrs. Bentz; and the Sewing Group, led by Mrs. Latham. These leaders give much of their time, providing learning experiences to our members. Ms. Brenda recognized the Club’s first-year members with medals: Braydon Wetzel, Katie Glass, McKenzie Forrest, and Kelsey Troxell. She also recognized our two outgoing senior members: Margo Sweeney and Wesley Brown. Scholarship awards were presented by Jim and Judy Miller to Olivia Dutton and Megan Millison. The Family of the Year Award was given to Jim and Judy Miller, along with their children, Konnor and Nikita.

The Rocky Ridge Club presented three community organizations with monetary gifts for their help with the Club in 2016: Thurmont Guardian Hose Company, Thurmont Grange, and Thurmont Ambulance Company.  The Thurmont Grange presented their “Unsung Hero Award” to an individual who works hard and is always there for others: Kolton Wetzel.

The 2016 Officers were recognized, and then welcomed the new 2017 Officers. Ms. Brenda and the new officers made a chain to show their trust in one another and the Club. Every 4-H member received a “boot bag,” with a personalized tag as their gift from the Club. The banquet ended with closing remarks from 2017 Secretary Breitta Latham.

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.