Catasauqua High School football players, students, family and alumni are a tough bunch, a group who are intensely devoted to their school and its football team.

Last Wednesday's forecasted snowstorm did not deter the Catasauqua faithful from attending the yearly Turkey Day Pep Rally in the high school gymnasium.

In spite of the predicted snowstorm, Catasauqua Area School District officials decided to still hold the pep rally.

However, rather than the usual 1:15 p.m. start time, the pep rally began 9:15 a.m. Students were dismissed immediately following the pep rally at 10:30 a.m.

The district released the early dismissal schedule and posted the information on its website Tuesday afternoon.

According to the website, moving the pep rally up to an earlier time would allow for students and community members to enjoy the annual high school brown and white school spirit event, traditionally held the day before the Thanksgiving Day football game versus the Northampton Area High School Konkrete Kids team.

"In concert with the other Lehigh County school districts, an early dismissal was initiated due to the timing of the storm, which was predicted to start in the late morning and early afternoon," district Superintendent Robert Spengler said.

Catasauqua Middle School students were still bused up to the high school for the event.

Despite the snow, the community's school spirit was on high and shook the foundation of the gymnasium.

In customary fashion, CHS Principal David Ascani appeared to the crowd, dressed in shorts, a sports jersey and sneakers, wearing a gold crown. He assisted the CHS band front, showcasing his flag-twirling abilities.

The highlight of the pep rally included the crowning of the Turkey Day king and queen. This year's king was Jacob Kober and the queen was Soriana Salloum.

Legs winners were also announced and included football player Joe Harakal in first place and football players Jacob Kober and Ricky Houser as runners up.

Also, Baby Bonfire photo winners were announced. They included Joe Warren who was declared this year's winner and Ashton Folland and Zach Hunsicker, who were runners up.