Smithsburg celebrates 17th annual Pride Days

July 18, 2010|By DANA BROWN

Joe Crocetta, Staff Photographer

SMITHSBURG -- If parades are for kids, then Nancy Kline might be a child at heart.

From her roost on the steps of Smithsburg Town Hall, the longtime resident of Smithsburg waved, clapped and cheered as the 17th annual Smithsburg Pride Days parade made it way along Water Street on Saturday.

"Good show," Kline hollered to a large group of young majorettes high-stepping it by.

"Over here," she yelled to attract the attention of people throwing candy from floats.

Kline's enthusiasm was reflected in the many parade watchers lining the parade route in downtown Smithsburg.

About 40 groups were represented in the parade, which included antique cars, a marching band, miniature horses, motorcycles, firetrucks, ambulances and more.

Parade organizer Nancy Walzl said she was amazed at the response from the small community.

"I am just so happy everybody came out," Walzl said.

She said one word best described the atmosphere.

"Pride," she said. "Absolutely pride."

Following the parade, the festivities were centered at Smithsburg's Veterans Park off Water Street, where approximately 40 craft and food vendors were set up.

"It's just a nice day for people to get together, not just for local Smithsburg people, but from all around the area," Kline said. "We love to see our friends and neighbors."

In addition to the parade, other events throughout the day included children's activities, live music, an evening street dance and a fireworks display at dusk.

Brent and Natalie Little of Smithsburg said it was the first time they had brought their young children to the Pride Days event.

"It's all about the kids," Brent Little said.

"We want them to learn to be part of things, to get involved in their community to help keep it a better place," Natalie Little said. "It's all about supporting your community."

She was impressed with the organization of the event, she said, "and the willingness of these (vendors) to sit in the heat all day."

Blacksmith Joe Scheerer of Keedysville said he, for one, didn't mind the heat.

"I'm just getting warmed up," he said with a laugh as he stoked his coal fire to 1,500 degrees.

Scheerer demonstrated his craft for several young bystanders, giving them each a small horseshoe as a souvenir.

Pride Days chairwoman Tonya Meadows has spearheaded the event for the past couple of years.

She said she was pleased with the level of volunteer participation and the community's support for the event.

"I think it's just a chance to get everybody together to show off their hometown pride," Meadows said.

"And hopefully, pride puts the unity back in community."

Smithsburg Pride Days continues today from noon to 5 p.m.

If you go

What: Smithsburg Pride Days

When: Today, noon to 5 p.m.

Where: Veterans Park, Smithsburg

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