(3/30) Attention all businesses and residents of the Thurmont and surrounding areas: this year’s Business Showcase is just around the corner! The 15th annual Thurmont Business Showcase "Something For Everyone" will be held on April 27 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Thurmont Event Complex, located at 13716 Strafford Drive. This event is open to the public and is free to attend.

The first Thurmont Business Showcase was held back in 2004. Both the Thurmont Business Showcase and Christmas in Thurmont events were the catalysts for the town of Thurmont to pursue the Main Street Designation, which was awarded in 2005. During its first year, this event was held at the Thurmont American Legion Post 168, but even in its first year the event proved to be so successful that it outgrew itself. The second year it was held at Catoctin High School and has continued growing so much that it is now held at the Thurmont Event Complex.

There are many benefits and opportunities available for those who attend or participate in the Showcase. The Thurmont Business Showcase allows local businesses in the Thurmont 21788 zip code to exhibit their products and services to all who attend. It provides an excellent opportunity for businesses to showcase their products and services to potential new customers and "advertise" and discuss potential job openings. All types of businesses such as brick and mortar, home-based businesses, and nonprofits participate in this event every year. In return, the Showcase offers an opportunity for all those living in Frederick County and Southern Pennsylvania to come out and see the large variety of businesses that are available in Thurmont.

"The objective of the Thurmont Business Showcase," stated Thurmont’s Economic Development Manager Vickie Grinder, "is to provide networking for businesses, building valuable relationships, and of course create lots of smiles! The Showcase also provides a time for all participating businesses and non-profits to interact with each other, and sometimes, learn about other businesses and opportunities that are right in their own back yard. An additional benefit to the Thurmont Business Showcase is meeting some of the non-profit organizations and learning about their cause and how they are impacting not only Thurmont, but society as well!"

While visiting the Showcase, attendees can see all of the wonderful amenities Frederick County' s premier event facility has to offer at the Thurmont Event Complex. From bingos, dinners, and fundraisers for the community to larger private events such as weddings and corporate events or public events including trade shows, the Thurmont Event Complex has accommodations for just about any group. And of course, apart from all the amazing businesses present at this year’s event, the Thurmont Ambulance Company will be selling their baked goods and sandwiches for all in attendance.

As always, the Business Showcase could not be possible without the help of town staff who organizes this event every year and the support of many sponsors. This year’s sponsors for the Showcase thus far include: Baker Tree Services, Inc., Black’s Funeral Home P.A., Stauffer Funeral Home, and Woodsboro Bank, Gold Sponsors; and Silver status sponsors, Gateway Automotive, Hawkins Landscaping Inc., Well-Fit and Willow Creek Studio.

For all those interested in learning more about this event, contact Vickie Grinder at vgrinder@thurmontstaff.com.