Theresa Dardanell
Food, families, friendship, fun…and all for free! That’s what brought more than two hundred people together on December 4, 2017, at Catoctin High School. Everyone in the community was invited to enjoy a free meal, donated by Mountain Gate Family Restaurant. They were treated to fried chicken, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, cole slaw, and dinner rolls. The cake for dessert was donated by the Thurmont Trinity United Church of Christ. Members of the indoor track team said that they especially liked the fried chicken, and, of course, the cake.
Families, school staff, students, and friends enjoyed spending time together. There were tables set up for children. The “smaller kiddos” table had holiday coloring pictures, games, and craft supplies. The “bigger kiddos” table had puzzles and games. Four-year-old Kash Brashear had fun playing the Paw Patrol Race to the Rescue game.
Everyone had a chance to win one of the holiday door prizes. Walkersville E&E Trees donated a pre-cut Christmas tree, and Mountains Edge Tree Farm in Smithsburg donated four certificates for a cut-your-own tree. Other prizes were $20.00 gift cards from Weis, poinsettias from “Flowers by Anne” in Hagerstown, and other holiday gifts from staff member Dev Wivell. There was also a table with “take what you want” free items, including school supplies and other donated items.
Guidance Counselor Shannon Stone and former counselor Sue Weaver coordinated the event this year. They were joined by staff members Robert Nutter, Amy Bellarmino, Mindy Day, Lacee Andrew, and Deb Wivell. Mike Livergood and Robert Phelan gave a preview of the upcoming financial literacy class.
It was a wonderful event that demonstrated the generosity and friendship in the community.
