Plate Auction

#1 - $300 - Bob Smith, Smith Ambulance
#2 - $100 - Jim Seldenright, Tusc Co Commissioner
#3 - $95 - John James
#4 - $85 - Kerry Metzger, Tusc Co Commissioner
#5 - $60 - Nick Martin (4 Years Old)
#6 - $45 - Teddy Wallick
#7 - $50 - Kevin Petitte
#8 - $65 - Bob Smith, Smith Ambulance
#9 - $55 - Olivia Martin (8 Years Old)
#10 - $70 - Don Wemple

2 Clocks Made by Robert Rennicker - $100
Bob Smith, Smith Ambulance

Clock Made by Robert Rennicker - $25
Bob Smith, Smith Ambulance

The plate design reflects the $2.5 million stadium renovation initiated by the NP Quaker Club, Inc. in 1997 and mimics the original stadium brick and mortar style. With fan safety and aesthetics key to the renovation, the updated stadium blends historical style with modern technology. The O.R. Herron Family Press Box, named in honor of the Herron family for their many school contributions, was completed in 2004. This 14' x 56' press box is complete with heat, air conditioning, and a rest room. A state-of-the-art band shell constructed with funds from New Philadelphia's Max Miller includes lighting and sound systems designed for Quaker band members. The band shell flanks one score board and one video board on the east side of the field. Renovations also include the addition of an 8 lane all-weather track and new fencing and gates. Locker room additions will finalize the club project.

Each year the festival committee attempts to come up with a plate design that will adequately depict some feature of Tuscora Park or of the community the festival represents. The 2009 First Town Days Plate designed by Jim Celuch of New Philadelphia commemorates Woody Hayes Quaker Stadium and John Brickles, Woody Hayes, Paul Hoerneman, Bill Kidd, and Dan Evans, five New Philadelphia head football coaches who have been inducted into the OHSFCA Hall of Fame. This plate honors the importance and style of the city-owned stadium, a WPA project constructed in 1937, and illustrates the importance of a community facility designed for all to enjoy. NPHS football began in 1896 and games have been held almost continuously for at least 105 years. Thirty-two head coaches have led the red and black to 593 wins, 396 losses, and 51 ties.

While the updated stadium is a jewel in the Tuscora Park complex, the importance of the facility is more subjective to a New Philadelphia resident. Because Woody Hayes Quaker Stadium and high school football are intertwined to form an important part of community life in our town, the 2009 First Town Days plate honors the rich history and tradition of the stadium and the head coaches who have embraced that leadership role. These five coaches are also recognized inside of Gate 8 at Ohio Stadium on the campus of the Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.

The Committee of the First Town Days Festival would like to offer this beautiful souvenir plate design as our token of recognition of the accomplishments of these great men and all of the effort and hard work that went into the renovation of our beautiful new football stadium.