Frederick Magazine - November 2023

FREDERICK :: NOVEMBER 2023 :: ISSUE 461

®

HOCKEY TOWN :: PRISONER OF WAR :: THREATENED CATS

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9640 Liberty Rd. Frederick, MD

700 E. Diamond Ave. Gaithersburg, MD

1115 Baltimore Blvd.

Westminster, MD

3828 Washington Blvd.

Baltimore, MD

866-RIPPEON • www.rippeonequipment.com

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magazine

Publishers Shawn Dewees Joseph Silovich

Issue 461

Editor-in-Chief Guy Fletcher Assistant Editor Nancy Luse Graphic Designers Ian Sager Alexandra Werder Contributing Writers John W. Ashbury Jeanne Blackburn Jody Brumage Gina Gallucci-White Lisa Gregory

Scott Grove Jenny Lubert Amy L. Metzger Hunt Kate Poindexter Jake Wynn

Contributing Photographers Michael DeMattia Turner Photography Studio Advertising Account Executives Terri Davis • tdavis@fredmag.com Shawn Dewees • sdewees@fredmag.com Stephanie Dewees • stephdewees@fredmag.com Debra Tyson • dtyson@fredmag.com Distributor Josh Ensor • alloutdist@fredmag.com Subscriptions Stephanie Dewees • subscriptions@fredmag.com Events Calendar and Proofreader Niki DeSanto • events@fredmag.com

Telephone: 301-662-8171 FAX: 301-662-8399

www.fredmag.com

Letters to the editor: editor@fredmag.com STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP FREDERICK Magazine is published monthly by Diversions Publications, Inc., 6 N. East Street, Suite 301, Frederick, MD 21701-5601. Publishers are Joseph Silovich and Shawn Dewees. Editor is Guy Fletcher. The magazine is owned by Diversion Publications, Inc., whose sole stockholders are Joseph Silovich and Debra Brunick. For the September 2023 issue, the number of copies printed was 5500: paid circulation was 3870, which includes 3425 mail subscriptions, 440 single copy sales and 5 others sold. There were 1530 complimentary copies. The number of copies not distributed was 100. From October 2022 to September 2023, the averages for distribution were as follows: copies printed were 5500, paid circulation was 3855 which included 3400 mail subscriptions, 450 single copy sales and 5 other sales. There were 1545 complimentary copies. The number of copies not distributed was 100. Frederick Magazine, Diversions Publications, Inc., 6 N. East Street, Suite 301, Frederick, MD 21701-5601.

Frederick Magazine, Volume XXXVIII, Number 11 is a monthly publication of Diversions Publications, Inc., 6 N. East Street, Suite 301, Frederick, MD 21701-5601 (ISSN 006-923). Periodicals postage paid at Frederick, MD 21701 and at additional mailing offices. Subscriptions, $24.95 per year, which includes the Frederick City/County Guide, Homegrown, and all other annual guides (available through the business office). Back issues w/in the last 12 mos./$3.95. Prior to 12 mos. ago/$7.00. POST­MASTER: Send address changes to Frederick Magazine, 6 N. East Street, Suite 301, Frederick, MD 21701-5601. Customer inquiries to same address or call 301-662-8171. Distributed through mail subscriptions, home delivery, and sold at newsstands and other locations in Frederick, Upper Montgomery counties, and throughout the Central Maryland region. Advertising rates available on request. Manuscripts, drawings, and other submissions must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

Frederick Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited material. All rights to submissions, including letters and e-mail, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and as subject to Frederick Magazine’s unrestricted right to edit and to comment editorially, unless otherwise negotiated with the author. © DIVERSIONS PUBLICATIONS, INC. 2023. Frederick Magazine, Best of FrederickTM, and People to WatchTM, are owned exclusively by Diversions Publications, Inc. All contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part for any reason without prior approval of the publisher.

Printed on Recycled Frederick is a registered trademark of Paper Diversions Publications, Inc.

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Contents

NOVEMBER ✶ VOL. XXXVIII, NO. 11

FEATURES

50 Hockey Town

Ice hockey is typically associated with other, colder parts of this country (and Canada), but the sport is thriving in Frederick County—from youth leagues to high school teams to adult beer leagues. Many adults, children and families now spend a large chunk of their time at Skate Frederick and other rinks in the region.

What makes the sport so popular?

BY LISA GREGORY PHOTOGRAPHY BY TURNER PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

58 Six Years John Fer’s life changed in one of the most dramatic ways possible on Feb. 4, 1967. On that day, the U.S. Air Force pilot was shot down in the skies of North Vietnam, the start of a journey that would have him held captive as a prisoner of war for six years. But Fer’s story of imprisonment and torture wasn’t the end of his story. Far from it.

BY GUY FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY BY TURNER PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

About the Cover

DEPARTMENTS 15

Ice hockey is skating strong with local fans.

See page 50.

68 11 Editor’s Note 15 Timepiece 16 Up Above

facebook.com/FrederickMagazine

91

18 Insider 38 Then & Now 40 November Events

66 Talking History Rev. Barbara Kershner Daniel

68 Trending Threatened Cats

74 Crave Dining Guide

80 Lifestyles

96 91 Tech Talk 5G’s Possibilities

93 Backyard Tourist Rediscover Downtown

95 Reflections Edward Schley Delaplaine

96 Look Back

Wertheimer Awards

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Years and Years

IT WAS EARLY (FOR ME) ON A WEDNESDAY MORNING IN

editor’s note

SEPTEMBER when I first heard the name John Fer. The Rotary Club of Carroll Creek, of which I am a member, was honoring Fer with the organization’s highest honor, a Paul Harris award for community service.

Sometimes when I hear things before my second cup of coffee, they tend to slip by my mental radar. But I was alert enough that morning to hear that Fer was a retired Air Force officer and once a prisoner of war in Vietnam, where he was held in the infamous Hanoi Hilton.

But I have to confess, my senses of shock and outrage have been dulled a bit after decades in this business and being exposed to the 24/7 news cycle.

Unfortunately, the plight of Vietnam War POWs probably got swept in that wash, at least for me.

Their stories of captivity, deprivation and even torture, no matter how horrific, often feel surreal, as if they only happened in movies.

Still, there was one thing included in Fer’s introduction that morning that woke me up like no amount of caffeine could.

Six years.

That is how long Fer was a POW. Six years in prison, with no contact with anyone other than his captors and fellow POWs. Imagine living six years in those conditions, without family, without the news, without a decent meal or even knowing who won the World Series. Think of where you were six years ago and think of all the things that have happened in your life since.

Think about what that kind of isolation does to a person.

Always in search of Veterans Day-themed content for the November issue, I found myself two weeks later interviewing Fer at the Frederick

Coffee Co. What started as “coffee” turned into a two-hour conversation that frankly could have gone twice that long. The resulting story about his POW life, “Six Years,” starts on page 58.

Also, with this month’s issue of Frederick Magazine, I am celebrating my 15th year as editor. When I took this position in 2008, I never imagined being here in 2023. The nature of this business—especially this century—seems to be one of transition and change.

People in my position tend not to hang around for five years, much less 15.

For that, I feel fortunate.

I am even more fortunate to be working with such a talented, committed group of local writers, artists, photographers, advertising executives and other contributors. Their dedication to Frederick Magazine inspires me and is a big part of why the past 15 years have absolutely flown by.

I hope you enjoy reading my story about John Fer, as well as the rest of this issue of Frederick Magazine. Have a safe and happy November. FM

GUY FLETCHER V EDITOR-IN-CHIEF gfletcher@fredmag.com

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“With everything going on in the Middle East right now, is there anything we should be worried about from an investment perspective?” E.D. – New Market, MD the news of the stunning A: With attacks on Israel by Hamas

terrorist forces, we once again face a war of undetermined proportions in the Middle East. This was an evil act that targeted civilians. The tragedy here cannot be exaggerated, nor can Israel’s need to respond. As human beings, we must mourn the victims, acknowledge the loss, and help them recover. We cannot forget that this is our first obligation.

Energy. Major suppliers of oil and natural gas, though they are in the same geographic area as Israel, are not yet affected by the conflict, and it seems unlikely any expansion would cause a large impact. Oil prices are down over the past 60 days, despite a small surge in the aftermath of the attacks, suggesting markets are not worried. This lack of concern makes sense because other sources, including the U.S., can step up if supply

from the Middle East is interrupted.

Supply had been a major consideration in past Middle East conflicts; it’s much less of a factor now.

Geopolitics. The Arab countries have generally disengaged from

the Palestinian issue, and Saudi Arabia had been exploring direct ties with Israel. (The disruption of this exploration may have been a key motive for the attacks.) There don’t appear to be a strong desire

by most countries for a war, which means diplomacy will have a chance to work. Hamas is primarily supported by Iran, a Shia country, whereas many Arab countries are primarily Sunni, which could make Arab support for a war unlikely for religious reasons.

Finally, with Iran in the mix, Arab countries may have real reasons not to help an Iranian initiative. In our view, there aren’t many reasons for these nations to widen the conflict; there are lots of reasons for them to try to resolve it as quickly as possible.

None of this is meant to minimize the tragedy.

From an economic perspective, the impact on the rest of the world will likely be limited and short lived. As human beings, we can and should mourn the victims. As investors, this is something to watch but not something that should cause panic.

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE:

WWW.MCCASKILL-FINANCIAL.COM FOR ADDITIONAL RESOURCES, FINANCIAL ARTICLES AND INFORMATION

To submit questions for future articles

Email to scott@mccaskill-financial.com or Call our office at 301.668.7366 Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services are separate from and not offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®.

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Legendary Collection

T

✶

BY AMY L. METZGER HUNT CURATOR, HERITAGE FREDERICK

timepiece

THE STORY OF FREDERICK’S PATRIOTIC HOMETOWN HEROINE, BARBARA FRITCHIE, REACHED A MILESTONE last month with

the 160th anniversary of the publication of The Ballad of Barbara Frietchie in The Atlantic Monthly. Written by John Greenleaf Whitter, the poem lauds the steadfast loyalty of an elderly woman to the United States of America in the face of Confederate adversaries. It is now believed Fritchie’s story might be more legend than fact, but she still holds a very special place in the hearts of many Fredericktonians. While she lived a modest existence, the popularity of Whittier’s poem ensured that her name would endure posthumously. In fact, Fritchie became a mascot of sorts, drawing visitors from far and wide to Frederick to see the “clustered spires” mentioned in the poem and to visit Fritchie’s home and gravesite.

Her name graced travel cabins, restaurants, stockings, chocolate boxes and even horse and motorcycle races. Although the accuracy of the poem’s account was questioned almost immediately after its publication, the love and respect for Fritchie never wavered.

Heritage Frederick sees many items that have been collected and treasured over the years because of their relationship to Fritchie. Recently, an offer to the historic collections came from Natalie Bowers, whose mother, Janie Quynn Delaplaine, was Fritchie’s great-greatgrandniece. As a descendant, Bowers received many items that belonged to Fritchie over the years. The resulting collection, generously donated to Heritage Frederick by Bowers and her family, included this beautiful salt- and cobalt-glazed stoneware water pitcher.

Other items in the collection include various plates and jugs, family Bibles (one containing Fritchie’s marriage certificate), a set of andirons, and a lovely diminutive rocking chair upon which the local heroine sat daily. FM

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IN AUTUMN, DOWNTOWN FREDERICK’S

up above

FAMOUS GINKGO TREE—one of the largest of its variety in the United States—transforms the green hue of its leaves to a bright canopy that resembles a golden apple.

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Experience F R E D E R I C K ’ S E A S TS I D E S H O P P I N G & D I N I N G A DV E N T U R E

SHOPS

FITNESS Barre East Fitness Studio

Bella’s Closet Unique baby and children’s clothing & shoes including Designs by Brandy.

116 N East Street – bellascloset.shop

Christmas is Coming!

Shop Local and Find Great Gifts at Everedy Square & Shab Row.

GALLERIES / HOME DESIGN Eastside Artists’ Gallery Primitive Homespuns Pure Home Collection Take Root GIFT SHOPS The Frederick Basket Company The Lerner Collection The Little Pottery Shop CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Bella’s Closet Footlights Ivy’s Haven A Perfect Fit Bra Boutique Talbots & Talbots Petites Teresa’s Treasures CRAFTS & SUPPLIES Charlotte’s Cottage Quilt Shop Frederick Clay Studio I Made This!

Primitive Homespuns Wool & Needleworks SALONS & SPAS Daisy’s Salon Unique Studio Hair Salon

Ivy’s Haven Women’s clothing and accessories boutique.

122 N East Street – ivyshaven.com

FOOD & DRINK Frederick Coffee Co. & Café Frederick Fudge & Ice Cream Sanctuary: Modern Kitchen Shab Row Tea Emporium SERVICES Amada Senior Care The Cook’s Kitchen The Cutting Board Sir Speedy Printing Stadtkind Photography Steve Hissey Guitar Studio

PLENTY OF FREE PARKING

Teresa’s Treasures Handmade purses, totes and wallets in standard and custom fabrics.

132 N East Street – teresaspurses.com

Located at the Intersection of East Church Street & East Street in Downtown Frederick

301-662-4140

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frederick magazine

Insider Local business, events, the arts, style, travel and more

Lefty Kreh’s Likeness Now at Home in Culler Lake IF IT’S TRUE WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT FISH

BEING MORE ACTIVE IN WET WEATHER, the fish in Baker Park’s Culler Lake were very happy on the morning of Oct. 14. Amid a steady rain, the bronze statue of Bernard “Lefty” Kreh by sculptor Toby Mendez was unveiled and dedicated.

The long-awaited installation in the lake occurred the week before during a day-long effort by Morgan-Keller Construction as a donation to the project.

The dedication, despite the weather, drew hundreds of friends and followers of Frederick’s internationally known fly fisherman, who authored numerous books on the sport. The ceremony included remarks from Kreh family members, Mayor Michael O’Connor, former

state Sen. Ronald Young and Mendez.

The artist commented that the site of Kreh in Culler Lake “is right where he belongs.” The statue was unveiled by Mendez and Victoria Kreh Huffman, the fisherman’s daughter.

The statue effort began with the Potomac Valley Fly Fishers organization, which established The Friends of Lefty Kreh, a nonprofit organization to honor Kreh, who died in 2018 at age 93. The

goal was to honor Kreh’s memory and achievements through the installation of a life-sized bronze statue in Frederick, his hometown, and to carry on his efforts to promote fly fishing and conservation.

The Friends of Lefty Kreh raised the money for the project from granting organizations such as the state of Maryland, Ausherman Family Foundation, the Delaplaine Foundation, the Maryland Arts Council, the Frederick Tourism Council and numerous private donors. Mendez began work on the statue last year and it was cast in bronze

by Independent Casting foundry in Philadelphia, Pa. —Jeanne Blackburn

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An Evening for Better Cities, Towns and Neighborhoods Using the theme of making better cities, towns and neighborhoods, First+Main Films has collected and curated various filmmakers’ visions into a Detroit-based festival with satellite screenings worldwide, including in Frederick on Nov. 9 at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the show starts at 6 p.m.

Presented by Downtown Frederick Partnership, the event will include inspiring stories about places that made their surroundings more appealing, along with audience conversation and panel discussions designed for an evening spent “learning, dreaming and exploring what makes a city a great place to live.” Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at www.weinbergcenter.org/shows/better-cities-film-festival.

Kate Hollenbeck in National Pageant Teen Miss Earth USA is a pageant focused on crowning a young woman who promotes environmental awareness and service to the community, something familiar to Frederick County resident Kate Hollenbeck, who is Miss Earth USA for the District of Columbia and will be competing for the national title in Orlando, Fla., in December.

“I’m very excited to be showing off all my hard work,” says Hollenbeck, a special education instructional assistant for Frederick County Public Schools and a student at Frederick Community College studying American Sign Language.

She is an advocate for special education students, leading an after-school program called Greenskeepers at Middletown Elementary. Hollenbeck also participates in local cleanups in the community to help the environment and is passionate about working with Comfort Bears in a Catastrophe, a group that provides

stuffed animals and encouraging notes to children affected by disaster.

“Disasters can be traumatizing for anyone, but for children they can be

especially overwhelming and frightening. … [We] let them know that they are not alone. It may seem like a small gesture, but it can make a world of difference to a child who’s feeling scared and alone,” she says.

Pageant competition is nothing new to Hollenbeck, who also participated in competitive figure skating, and no matter the outcome of the competition set for New Year’s Eve, she is grateful to be able to promote her platform. “I would 100 percent advise others to compete,” she says. www.missearthusa.com

Cast Your “Best of Frederick” Vote For the past 32 years, Frederick Magazine readers have been offering opinions on everything from who makes the best burger or burrito to which local band has the greatest groove factor in the annual “Best of Frederick” competition. As in the past, the categories have been tweaked to keep the competition interesting. This is Frederick’s only original “best” contest and the results carry legitimate bragging rights for the winners. Voting lasts until Nov. 15. Visit www.fredmag.com and make your vote count. fredMAG 19

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Veterans Honored with Wreaths

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Last December, wreaths were laid at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 515 S. Market St., on the graves of 4,000 veterans of conflicts spanning from the Revolutionary War to Afghanistan, says Patricia Curchin, who is chairing this year’s local effort as part of the national Wreaths Across America. A team from Homewood at Frederick, 7407 Willow Road, has participated in the project since 2017 when 400 graves were decorated.

“We met with Chris Hough, the local historian at Mount Olivet, and created a partnership that has grown into a powerful community event that includes a variety of scout troops, veterans organizations, social clubs and committed citizens,” Curchin says.

The wreaths will be placed Dec. 16 at Mount Olivet, preceded by a short ceremony near the World War II monument at noon.

Those wishing to support the team from Homewood, where 150 military veterans reside, can send checks payable

to WAA with MD 0295P in the memo line to: Pat Curchin, 500 Pearson Circle, Apt. 1014, Frederick, 21702.

Each wreath is $17 and $5 is returned to Homewood for special projects in its health care unit. Online donations can be made at www.wreathsacrossamerica. org. “This is a great way to contribute to your community and honor those who gave so much so we can be free,” Curchin says.

Mixing it Up with the Harlem Wizards Once again, the Harlem Wizards basketball team will be coming to Frederick to take on a squad of local teachers, principals and community leaders in an effort to raise money for five Frederick nonprofits that serve youngsters. Hosted by i9 Sports, which offers youth sports programs, the game will be held Nov. 11 in the Frederick Community College gym, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and tipoff at 6 p.m.

Eric Stephens, who, with his wife, Nieshia, own i9 Sports, says, “We killed it last year with a sold-out crowd.”

The event raised $31,000. “We’re looking to sell out again this year and hoping for more sponsors,” he says, in order to support City Youth Matrix, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, i9 Sports Association Chapter 437, I Believe In Me and the Boys and Girls Club of Frederick County.

In addition to cheering on their teachers and principals, kids wearing a Wizards jersey can warm up with the team and at the end of the night students can go on the court

for a dance celebration. Throughout the evening audience members will be asked to take part. www.pretix.eu/harlemwizards/frederickmd11-11-23-06-00pm

Changing of the Marquee The Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., sports a new marquee to herald performances and events that is reminiscent of its past. The building, opened in 1926 as the Tivoli, served as a movie house until 1976 when the City of Frederick bought the property, and it became the Weinberg Center.

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Tastings News for Foodies

XLIV Offers a Skyline Experience

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The third floor of Isabella’s Taverna & Tapas Bar, 44 N. Market St., is now available as an event venue, capitalizing on the elegance of the historic building with its polished wooden floors, exposed brick walls and abundant windows that offer a bird’s eye view of Downtown Frederick.

Nezih Pistar, owner of Kios Restaurant Management Group, has named the new surroundings XLIV, saying it “represents a new pinnacle of elegance and sophistication for event hosting in Frederick. The space has been meticulously renovated to preserve the spirit and architecture of the building.” XLIV can accommodate various gatherings, including plated dinners for up to 75 guests and cocktail parties for up to 150. Additionally, the space features a smaller

intimate private dining room perfect for gatherings of 15 people or fewer.

“To elevate the dining experience, our chef will curate exquisite meals that will delight guests’ palates. We’re committed to using the finest ingredients, sourced locally, to ensure every dish is a work of art,” Pistar says. The culinary experience can be further enhanced with expertly crafted cocktails and a selected wine list to complement the meal. www.kiosmgmt.com, 301-698-8922 or yasemin@kiosmgmt.com

RAK Brewing

The former site of Smokehouse Brewing Station—Creekside, 400 Sagner Ave., is now home to RAK Brewing Co., owned by Joe Gatewood and Steve McIntyre. Gatewood says they plan on the brewery to have a soft opening later this month, presenting “an awesome place for corporate and private events and beer lovers.”

Actually, it was the building that first caught his attention, says Gatewood, who also has a real estate career.

“We do a lot of events for our real estate business, and we outgrew our event

space.” But make no mistake, the beverages are also a high priority. “There will be a mix of beers,” he says, with a minimum of 15 different brews available, from IPAs to sours and a champagne-like beer that can be mixed with orange juice for a brunchtime mimosa.

“We’ll also have a number of non-alcoholic drinks and seltzers.” Food can be

delivered in short order from an outside source, with the possibility of adding a kitchen in the future.

The owners are committed to the community, believing in “the power of giving back and paying it forward,” thus resulting in the name, RAK, or “random acts of kindness.” www.rakbrewing.com

Chicken is the Hot Ticket

For the times when you’re more than hungry, you’re hangry, drop by Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken & Wings, 5595 Spectrum Drive, where the specialty is Nashville-style spicy chicken. The sandwiches are loaded with enough chicken for two and come dressed in slaw and a pickle. There’s a choice of hotness level with angry hot at the top end and the admonishment it’s “hotter than you think.”

The menu also includes chicken wings, bites and tenders, chicken and waffles, a Korean-style chicken nugget, chicken wraps, and salad topped with chicken. www.hangryjoes.com 22 fredMAG

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BizInk Frederick County Business

Tech Fun & Games

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In an effort to get folks away from their computers and encourage them to build business connections and friendships, as well as just have a bit of fun, the 8th annual TechFrederick Games were held recently in Baker Park with more than 200 participants from tech and non-tech companies, sponsors and community volunteers.

Sponsored by TechFrederick, 118 N. Market St., a coalition of local high-tech companies dedicated to connecting local professionals through advocacy, education, communication and networking opportunities, the event combined physical games with brain games to carve out bragging rights for those involved in local IT. Organizers say the games build a stronger sense of community.

TechFrederick is open to all individuals in the IT industry, offering development programs, seminars and other events to entrepreneurs, startups and individual workers within or wanting to join the high-tech sector. www.techfrederick.org

Wobbly Tooth Offers After Hours

What if a daytime dental appointment doesn’t suit? The kids are in school or you can’t take off work, which is where The Wobbly Tooth Dental Practice, 176 Thomas Johnson Drive, Suite 200, comes in with hours on Thursdays and Fridays from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday hours from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

The family-owned and operated dental clinic serves families, adults and seniors, providing same-day dentistry treatment through 3D printing services for surgical guides to immediate implant placement. They also offer emergency dental visits and a wallet-friendly membership plan for those without dental insurance. Lastly, they have a very clever name for their practice. www.thewobblytooth.com

Morgan-Keller Opens Richmond Office Morgan-Keller Construction, 70 Thomas Johnson Drive, recently opened an office in Richmond, Va. “We are excited about this next phase of our growth,” says Taylor Davis, president and COO. “We believe the new office will allow us to increase our visibility, bolster our brand and maintain the personal touch that you have come to associate with Morgan-Keller.”

The general contracting and construction management firm was established in 1955 and known regionally for multi-family and senior living communities, industrial and higher education facilities, and other projects. www.morgankeller.com

Reverse Job Fair Planned The Frederick County Reverse Job Fair is flipping the script on the traditional job fair by embracing diversity, hiring abilities and elevating opportunities for people with disabilities. The fair, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m.-noon at

the ARC at Market Street, 555 S. Market St., is being hosted by Developmental Disabilities Administration provider agencies, Frederick County Workforce Services, the SUCCESS Program and the Maryland’s Division of Rehabilitative Services.

Job candidates will hold a career readiness workshop and dress rehearsal prior to the fair. Participants will also learn how to dress for success, prepare a standard and/ or visual resume, craft a brief elevator speech and create their information-rich booths. Human resource representatives, visionary business executives and individuals in search of diverse, exceptional talent to join their teams are invited to attend.

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Frederick Arts Council Awards $50,000 in Grants Under the Create and Activate Now Recover program, the Frederick Arts Council recently awarded $50,000 to Frederick County arts organizations.

Recipients include the Choral Arts Society of Frederick, Emmitsburg Community Chorus, Endangered Species Theatre Project, Frederick Book Arts Center, Frederick Regional Youth Orchestra, Frederick Symphony Orchestra, Fredericktowne Players, Maryland Ensemble Theatre, Maryland Wind Festival, Other Voices, Potters’ Guild of Frederick, Clustered Spires Chorus, The

Delaplaine Arts Center, Frederick Children’s Chorus, the Frederick Chorale, Global Z Recording Project, National String Symphonia, Weinberg Center for the Arts and City Youth Matrix.

This funding was made through a National Endowment for the Arts American Rescue Plan Grant. Individual grants were first released in July 2022 to support artists and arts orga-

nizations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are honored to extend the … grants to local arts organizations which will continue to benefit the community as a whole” says Louise Kennelly, executive director of the Frederick Arts Council. Recipients were evaluated by a grants committee, which includes community representatives. www. frederickartscouncil.org

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Ruppert Properties Acquires Industrial Building Ruppert Properties, a family and employee-owned commercial investment company, recently acquired 7201 McKinney Circle, once home to Aspen Publisher. The 89,000 square foot industrial building is on seven acres zoned for light industrial use. The property is not currently occupied and will undergo numerous exterior/interior improvements to prepare for a tenant. Plans include façade improvements, dock renovations, energy efficient lighting, asphalt repairs and landscaping enhancements.

“We are very happy to have been able to acquire this property under what many consider challenging market conditions,” says Bill Meissner, Ruppert Properties president and managing director. “Our proven track record in

the ‘value- add’ industrial space, combined with high demand and limited industrial availability within the market, positions us well to maximize our investment.” www.ruppertproperties.com

MET Receives Foundation Grant

The Shubert Foundation, the nation’s largest funder dedicated to supporting nonprofit theaters and dance companies, recently gifted 635 such organizations, including the Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., a mainstay of the Frederick area’s theater scene for more than 25 years. The grant was for $15,000.

“This investment not only validates the hard work and dedication of our entire team but also empowers us to dream bigger and reach further with our artistic and communi-

ty-building initiatives,” says Katherine DuBois, MET executive director. The theater has faced many of the same hardships that have led countless theaters to close or reduce programming.

With the support of major grants, individual donations and a creative and resourceful community, the MET has continued to thrive.

Tad Janes, founding artistic director, says he makes it a point when visiting other nonprofit theaters to look at their funding sources and “almost without fail I’d see the Shubert Foundation. I knew that to be in the ‘national theater conversation’ a theater company had to be recognized by the Shubert Foundation.” www.marylandensemble.org

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State of the Arts Checking out the theater, gallery, literary and music scene

Tattoo Art

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The Frederick Arts Council is featuring INKED: A Tattoo Inspired Exhibition on the first and second floors of its Art Center at 5 E. 2nd St. through Nov. 22. The multimedia show aims to serve as an homage to the art of tattooing, the history behind the craft and artists working in the field today.

The show features tattoo memorabilia and equipment from prominent artists, as well as flash, tattooed hide and work that explores the personal and cultural practices of tattooing from artists living in the greater Frederick area.

For decades, tattooing was not perceived as artistic practice and only subcultures such as sailors and circus performers sported permanent body art. As acceptance increased, greater demand has led to further diversification of designs. Featured are the work and tools from famous tattoo artists including Ed Hardy, Philadelphia Eddie, Mike “Rollo” Malone and Apo Whang Od. Local and regional artists included in this show are Lis Zadravec, Gordon Staub, Colin Smallwood, Wendell Poindexter, Emma Cytrynbaum, Olivia Henry, Christina Rogombé, Jared Weippert, Chris Smith, Makoto Namura, Julia Zukos and Shane Acuff. Local tattoo shops represented in this show are Timebomb Tattoos & Curiosities, Sacred Arts Tattoo, Tattoo Alchemy, and Drawin’ Attention Tattoos. www.frederickartscouncil.org

MYSTICISM AND FAMILIAR SUBJECTS

Isabel Manalo is considered to be an artist’s artist, a pro who not only maintains her own studio practice and exhibition schedule, but also guides countless other artists with aesthetic and academic counsel. Manalo’s paintings will be featured Nov. 4-Dec. 31 at Gaslight Gallery, 118 E. Church St., in Ninety Degrees by Isabel Manalo. The artist will give a talk at 2 p.m. on Nov. 6.

Manalo’s art possesses an uncommon transcendence and mysticism yet is essentially simple and familiar in its subject matter, often with her two young daughters engaged in exploration and wonder amid the natural world. Manalo has been exhibiting her work internationally since 1999 and has been included in several public and private collections, such as the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C., and the permanent collections of U.S. embassies in Bulgaria, Philippines, Kazakhstan and Nepal. www.GaslightArt.com

‘I Love Color, All Colors’

Reimagined Realities by artist Sarah Higgins will run Nov. 4-26 at TAG/The Artists Gallery, 501 N. Market St. Opening night is Nov. 5 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. and the artist talk is Nov. 12 at 2 p.m.

Higgins says she had a traditional art education, lately adding more texture to her paintings. “Staring at a blank surface can be intimidating, make a mark, any mark. Many of my paintings begin with random marks using a tapered handmade brush. From there I start painting, picking out shapes, working out the composition and choosing color. I love color, all colors, and am very particular about the design. What I enjoy most about painting is solving problems. Painting just does not happen, it takes work and practice,” Higgins says. www.theartistsgallery.com 28 fredMAG

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Style Seasonal Fashions & Trends

Baby Needs an Outfit

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The response is almost immediate when seeing a baby. You melt. You gush and you can’t help lapsing into baby talk yourself as you try and engage this bundle of joy. It’s kind of the same with the clothes these small angels wear. Seeing the tiny shoes, hair bows and pint-sized versions of what’s in mom’s or dad’s closets also brings on the urge to murmur, “Oh, how sweet!”

For those with babies in their lives, Brandy Jones and her recently opened Shab Row store, Bella’s Closet, is ready to assist in outfitting your little dumplings in clothing that is as unique and beautiful as they are. “They’re cute, they’re just fun,” Jones says of the items in her inventory, which come from the United Kingdom, Spain and Turkey, as well as small manufacturers in the United States. Lately, Jones has also been creating patterns and

designing children’s clothes. The shop carries sizes from newborn to teen and its upstairs is devoted to adults.

Jones says she sees customers ranging from moms to grandmothers, aunts and friends looking for baby shower gifts. Keep in mind that now is the time to dress your kids in the things you favor, because soon enough they will battle to wear what they want, which actually isn’t such a bad thing.

FEATURED VENDOR: Bella’s Closet, 116 N. East St., www.bellascloset.shop, 240-575-9500

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HISTORIC

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK MARYLAND

LOCAL jewelry bath & body FUNCTIONAL kids stationary HANDMADE home accessories 19 N. Market St., Frederick H 301.663.3632 www.shopthemuse.com H Facebook “shop the muse”

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Click

On the Scene at Local Events

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Endangered Species Theatre Project A musical cabaret that included an appearance by Broadway performers was held recently at the FAC Art Center, 5 E. 2nd St., as a fundraiser for Endangered Species Theatre Project, which works to “bring enjoyment and understanding through live theater that proactively focuses on diverse representation.” Dee Dolan, left, was saluted for her longtime support of the group as a volunteer and donor. Also pictured is Christine Mosere, artistic director. www.esptheatre.org

Salute to Workers

A stainless-steel mural created by Frederick artist Yemi Fagbotun was recently introduced at The Bottling Plant apartments, 1707 N. Market St. The site is the former home of a Coca-Cola bottling plant and employees are portrayed in the artwork. Some former workers gathered with their families for the unveiling.

Oktoberfest The Rotary Clubs of Carroll Creek and Southern Frederick County recently hosted the annual Frederick’s Oktoberfest at the Frederick Fairgrounds. Spectacular autumn weather welcomed crowds over two days to enjoy the food, music and, of course, beer of Germany. Proceeds from the volunteer-run event support a wide variety of charities. www.frederickoktoberfest.org Have an event you would like to see featured in Click? Let us know by emailing editor@fredmag.com.

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HISTORIC

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK MARYLAND

301-624-4030

10-B East Street • Everedy Square • Frederick, MD www.imadethispottery.com

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Q&A Speak Easy

Eric Smothers

President, Maryland State Firemen’s Association time away from them. Additionally, volunteer departments, while supplemented by the government, still need to hold annual fundraising activities.

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How do you attract volunteers to the fire and rescue service?

We have added contractual recruiters at MSFA to assist local jurisdictions and we use various websites to funnel citizens to the closest fire or rescue station in their area. We also appear at community events and open houses and travel to local schools to try and recruit.

What are your responsibilities and goals as president of the state organization?

It is my responsibility to represent the volunteer fire, rescue and EMS departments on legislative issues, working with government on both the state and federal levels to address safety issues that relate to fire-, rescue- and EMS-related matters, as well as life safety matters within our communities.

My goals are to enhance recruitment and retention efforts for volunteers across Maryland, provide and secure funding for personnel for mental health initiatives, and to secure permanent funding for our Emergency Services Operating Fund, which provides monies for training statewide. Also, securing testing and certification funds for fire and rescue personnel, the Maryland State Police helicopter and physician overtime cost reimbursement for our shock trauma system.

Are there common challenges faced by first responders in rural and urban areas?

Common challenges include a rapid decline in volunteers willing to take training, retaining existing personnel, securing funding for maintaining

stations and having money to replace vehicles and equipment.

The big challenge for our volunteers is working a full-time job, then finding time to fulfill training requirements, not to mention running emergencies, then supporting their families when taking

What made you want to be a first responder?

I became a volunteer at 16 years old. I used to watch the fire and ambulance companies pass my house, or see the helicopter fly over going to a river rescue on the Potomac River. One day they came to Brunswick High School to recruit cadet or junior members and I helped the Brunswick Ambulance Company establish its junior membership program. I have been involved in fire, rescue and EMS services ever since.

I was fortunate to be in the second class of the advanced life providers when Frederick County started Advanced Life Support services in 1982. I have watched the Frederick County fire and rescue system evolve over the years into what it is today.

Frederick County is not only rich in history, but rich in the many men and women that volunteer with the fire and rescue services and auxiliaries to make our system work. I thank the family members for allowing their loved ones to participate—selfless sacrifices that each and every one of them makes on a daily basis.

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NOTHING BUT SOLUTIONS Nothing but the Best!

SEE WHAT LEE CAN DO FOR YOU 240-651-0433 • leebuildingclean.com

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Wish You Were Here

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Your Photos from Around the World

Connecticut Jim and Betty Tucker visit the Submarine Force Museum, home of the Nautilus, the first nuclear-powered submarine, in Groton.

Australia Dani and Ash Gurrie take in the spectacular views at the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks off the shore of Port Campbell National Park in Victoria.

France Jared Goodfriend, Michelle Goodfriend, Debbie Molesworth and John Molesworth tour Verdun, site of the longest battle in World War I, fought from February to December in 1916.

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NORTH MARKET STREET

then & now

✶

then: circa 1904

now: 2023

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november events

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Hotk Pic 91st Brunswick Veterans Day Parade

Brunswick city will host its 91st Annual Veterans Day Parade, one of the oldest of its kind in the country. The opening ceremony is at 1 p.m. and the parade starts at 2 p.m. The event has been recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Veterans Day National Committee as an official regional site for the 2023 Veterans Day Commemoration.

Keynote speaker and parade grand marshal is retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General James W. Lukeman, who now serves as president and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. He commanded the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines and served as assistant chief of staff for the 1st Marine Division in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

There are nearly 100 parade entries, ranging from marching bands such as Brunswick High School to veterans and military groups. Numerous fire trucks, antique vehicles, youth and community organizations are also participating and vying for cash prizes.

Nov. 5

World War II veteran Carl Felton will serve as the honorary parade marshal. SM3c Felton was born in 1926 and joined the U.S. Navy in October 1943, just four months after graduating from high school, at 17. After receiving training in Morse Code, Felton became a signalman assigned to the HMS Ceres, which was in charge of directing traffic in and out of Omaha Beach.

Felton was transferred in 1945 to the USS Baker, whose main job was to search for mines. He returned to New York City on the Queen Elizabeth in 1945 and was transferred to the USS Scott, which escorted a captured German submarine to Washington, D.C. He was honorably discharged in April 1946.

The parade’s emcee will be Navy veteran and Frederick Chamber of Commerce CEO Rick Weldon. A reception will be held at American Legion Post 96 in Brunswick. Food and beverages will be provided at no charge. For more information, check out the Brunswick Veteran’s Day Parade’s Facebook page.

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The Hagerstown and Frederick Railway Through Dec. 22 Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. From 1896 until 1954, a network of interurban trolley lines was built linking communities across Frederick and Washington counties. This exhibit presents the history of these electric railways and how they changed the landscape and communities of Frederick County. 301-663-1188. www.frederickhistory.org

Inked: A Tattoo Inspired Exhibition Through Nov. 22 Frederick Arts Council Art Center, 5 E. 2nd St. A multimedia show that pays homage to the art of tattooing, the history of tattooing and artists working in the field today. 301662-4190. www.frederickartscouncil.org

21st Annual Members Exhibit Through Nov. 4 Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., Westminster. An annual favorite that showcases the artistic talents of the Carroll County Arts Council’s members, featuring a range of styles and mediums including painting, drawing, photography, sculpture and fine crafts. All works are for sale.

410-848-7272. www.carrollcountyartscouncil.org

FAC After Hours: Meditative Dance Movement Mondays in Nov. Frederick Arts Council Art Center, 5 E. 2nd St. A weekly inclusive healing space that allows participants to move freely while tapping into divine bliss. 6 p.m.–7 p.m. 301-662-4190. www.frederickartscouncil.org MET Comedy Night Fridays in Nov. Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St. Enjoy comedy every Friday and some Saturdays at the MET, including The Comedy Pigs on Nov. 3 and 4 and Oh Crit! on Nov. 17. 8:30 p.m.

301-694-4744. www.marylandensemble.org Carillon Recital Sundays in Nov. Joseph Dill Baker Carillon in Baker Park, Downtown Frederick. The tower is open for guests to hear John Widmann, City Carillonneur play the 49 bell carillon of bronze bells. 12:30 p.m.– 1 p.m. www.visitfrederick.org

Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area Year-in-Review Nov. 1 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Bestselling author, poet and educator Clint Smith will be the speaker for the heritage area year-in-review. 6:30 p.m.

301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Michael Palascak Nov. 1 New Spire Stages, 15 W. Patrick St. Stand-up comedian Michael Palascak finds hilarity in everyday life and delivers jokes with precision and punch, leaving the audience in stitches. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Stitches through Time: Women’s Work from Farm to Fashion Through Dec. 22 Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. An exhibit that explores one story of women’s work, interpreting the history of textile production up to the 1950s. The exhibit features a selection of handsewn quilts and clothes from the 1800s; equipment, advertisements, photos and ephemera from the factory era; and selections of mid-20th century clothing by Clair McCardell that reflect the department store culture that emerged after World War II. Ten wedding dresses spanning 100 years showcase the themes of the story.

301-663-1188. www.frederickhistory.org Figured and Fancy: Coverlets of Frederick County Through Dec. 22 Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. View four examples of ornate, durable coverlets made by Frederick County weavers between 1830 and 1870. 301-663-1188. www.frederickhistory.org

Schifferstadt Architectural Museum Tour

Saturdays and Sundays in Nov. Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave. Tour the home of a pioneer family and learn about the town’s German heritage and the German way of building a house. 2 p.m.–5 p.m.

301-663-3885. www.fredericklandmarks.org

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november events

Passion in Paint Nov 1–26 DISTRICT Arts, 15 N. Market St. An exhibition of figurative and abstract artwork by Debby Brisker Burk, a mixed media painter and native Washingtonian. An opening reception is scheduled for Nov 4 at 5 p.m. 301-695-4050. www.districtarts.com FAC After Hours: Jazz Improv with Joe Keyes and the Late Bloomer Band Nov. 1, 15 Frederick Arts Council Art Center, 5 E. 2nd St. Keyes captivates audiences with his deep, commanding vocals, punctuated by tales of love, family and addiction from his six decades on Earth. 7 p.m. 301-662-4190. www.frederickartscouncil.org

Damn Tall Buildings Nov. 2 New Spire Stages, 15 W. Patrick St. Bluegrass served with helping of attitude and grit.

Damn Tall Buildings’ music reveals influences of swing, ragtime, contemporary and jazz, with high-impact lyrics backed by spirited harmony. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

General Grief Support Group Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23 Frederick Health Hospice, 1 Frederick Health Way. A drop-in group designed to provide support to individuals who have experienced the death of a loved one. Participants can share their stories and express their grief as they work towards healing. Nov. 2 and 16, 2 p.m.–3:30 p.m.; Nov. 9 and 23 5 p.m.–6:30 p.m. 240-566-3030. www.frederickhealthhospice.org

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Historic District Ghost Tours Nov. 3, 4, 10, 11, 18, 24, 25 In the Historic District Ghost Tour, participants take a journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past at some of the most haunted sites in the city. Tours meet in front of Brewer’s Ally Restaurant, 124 N. Market St. See website for start times. Private tours also available. Reservations required. $. www.marylandghosttours.com A Charlie Brown Christmas Nov. 3–11 The Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive. In this holiday dessert theatre special event, the classic animated television show comes to life in a faithful stage adaptation in which Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang discover the true meaning of Christmas. $.

301-662-6600. www.wayoffbroadway.com First Saturday: Love Local Nov. 4 Downtown Frederick. Support local businesses by shopping with an independent retailer, eating at a local restaurant, supporting local artists and exploring Downtown Frederick. Features streets filled with live music and entertainment and unique events at Downtown businesses. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

301-698-8118. www.downtownfrederick.org

The Jeremiahs Nov. 3 New Spire Stages, 15 W. Patrick St. This celebrated Irish folk band crosses the sea, bringing to America an intriguing and authentic mix of traditional folk songs and tunes, blended with newly composed originals. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

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Acton Children’s Business Fair Nov. 4 Along Carroll Creek, 110 E. Patrick St. Support young entrepreneurs and get a head start on holiday shopping at this annual event.

Kids develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy and then open for customers at this one-day marketplace noon–3 p.m. 240-360-1879. www.childrensbusinessfair.org/frederick-md Foundations of Frederick Walking Tour Nov. 4 Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. Experience the history and beauty of Downtown as knowledgeable guides share the fascinating stories that make up historic Frederick. 10:30 a.m. $.

301-663-1188. www.frederickhistory.org

Jim Roberts & Thomas Sterner Nov. 3–26 NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St. A collaborative effort between mixed media sculptors and NOMA artists Thomas Sterner and Jim Roberts. This exhibition explores new directions and possibilities, centered around varying concepts. An opening reception is scheduled for Nov. 4 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and an artist talk is scheduled for Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. 240-367-9770. www.nomagalleryfrederick.com

How the Civil War Forged the Modern American Thanksgiving Nov. 4 National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St. Play trivia and win prizes while learning about the connection between the Civil War and Thanksgiving. 2 p.m.–3 p.m. $. 301-695-1864. www.civilwarmed.org

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Creative Outlet Nov. 4 The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Kids and adults are invited to drop-in to get creative together at family tables. Each session features an artist-inspired project as well as open studio activities. This month, make a sculpture inspired by Theaster Gates, Delaplaine’s fall Artist of Inspiration. 3 p.m.− 5 p.m. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org Art Matters Artist Talks Nov. 4 The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Enhance your understanding and appreciation of art at these monthly talks. This month, exhibiting artists and U.S. veterans Chris Madden, Cynthia Scott-Johnson and Michael Douglas Jones discuss the work in their exhibitions. 2 p.m. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org Weinberg Center for the Arts Backstage Tour Nov. 4 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Experience the backstage magic at this free tour that is open to the general public. Noon.

301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Movie Night at Gambrill Park Nov. 4 Gambrill State Park Tea Room, 8346 High Knob Road. Enjoy a theatrical viewing of South & Saints at this family-friendly park experience complete with popcorn and drinks hosted by Maryland Ensemble Theatre and the Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks. 8 p.m. www.cunninghamgambrill.org

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PUSH Physical Theatre—Generic Male Nov. 4 New Spire Stages, 15 W. Patrick St. Intense athleticism, gravity-defying acrobatics, creative choreography and hilarious hijinks weave a satire on masculinity in this two-man show. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Ron Richard Baviello Nov. 4–26 Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St. An exhibition of works by Ron Richard Baviello.

A First Saturday opening is scheduled for Nov. 4 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays 1 p.m.–5 p.m. www.eastsideartistsgallery.com Veterans Show Nov. 4–26 The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Works in a variety of media. This biennial exhibition showcases artwork made by former service members of the U.S. military. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org Chris Madden Nov. 4–Dec. 31 The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. An exhibition of oil paintings titled, “Chasing Flies: The Satirical Art of Christopher Madden.” In the tradition of artists like Goya and Daumier with a bit of Mad magazine thrown in, Madden uses satire in his work to evoke and create dialogue about contemporary culture contracts. The old adage, “you catch more flies using honey than vinegar,” is turned upside down to illustrate how humor can be used to present challenging concepts to the world in an accessible manner and hopefully provide a reflection of the human condition. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org

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Start Living Yo Cynthia Scott-Johnson Nov. 4–Dec. 31 The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. An exhibition of watercolor and mixed media paintings titled, “Bubbles: Awareness is the First Step.”

Artist Cynthia Scott-Johnson’s work in this series looks at how belief, memory, imagination and visual sensory input affect levels of perception.

301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org

ur Best Lif e!

Michael Douglas Jones

Dec. 31 The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. An exhibition of mixed media assemblage titled, “The Weathered Inch.” Jones’ assemblage work utilizes books, writing accoutrement, photography and more as a metaphor of the stories we carry inside of ourselves: the books we’ve read, experiences we’ve had and the lessons we’ve learned.

301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org Coping with the Holidays Workshop Nov. 6, 9 Frederick Health Hospice, 1 Frederick Health Way. This one-day workshop will explore practical ideas to help cope with the holidays and ways to commemorate loved ones, especially throughout the holiday season. Nov. 6, 1 p.m.–3 p.m.; Nov. 9, 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. 240-5663030. www.frederickhealthhospice.org

Our one level patio homes are luxuriously spacious and elegant. A variety of floor plans are available and all feature a gourmet kitchen, dining room, spacious main suite, a guest bedroom and bath, covered front porch, patio and over-sized two-car garage.

Discover why Homewood at Frederick is the region’s choice for retirement living. Call the Marketing Office to schedule an appointment to tour a patio home.

“No person shall be subject, on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, familial status or disability, to discrimination in the terms or conditions for admission to, treatment or the provision of services in, one of our Communities.”

Community Concert Series: The Borowsky Trio Nov. 5 Calvary United Methodist Church, 131 W. 2nd St. Siblings Frances (cello), Emmanuel (violin) and Elizabeth (piano) have won their way into the hearts of audiences with their commanding interpretations of standard repertoire and their dazzling original compositions. This concert will feature 19th and 20th century composers and pieces.

This event is free and open to the public.

3 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 301-662-1464. www.calvaryumc.org/concerts

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Better Cities Film Festival Nov. 9 New Spire Stages, 15 W. Patrick St. This event features short films from around the world focused on making better cities, towns and neighborhoods, alongside community conversation and panel discussions. Spend the evening learning, dreaming and exploring what makes a city a great place to live. Presented by Downtown Frederick Partnership.

5:30 p.m. $. 301-698-8118. www.downtownfrederick.org U.S. Air Force Concert Band Nov. 8 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. The Concert Band serves as the official symphonic wind ensemble of the United States Air Force, featuring 52 active duty musicians performing musical selections for everyone, from light classics to America’s all-time favorites, and original works to solo features. 7 p.m. 3 01-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org Menopause The Musical Nov. 9, 10 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Four women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra and memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats and more. This musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s has audiences cheering and dancing in the aisles. 8 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org The Woman They Could Not Silence Nov. 10 National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St. Learn the inspiring story of one woman’s efforts to prove her sanity and reform 19th century mental health care at this Facebook livestream event with author Kate Moore. Visit facebook.com/CivilWarMed at the scheduled time to join. 1 p.m.–2 p.m. $. 301-695-1864. www.civilwarmed.org

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20th Annual Echo Taps

Nov. 11 Market and 2nd streets, Downtown Frederick.

Brass musicians line the streets and play Taps twice in turn, passing the call from Mount Olivet Cemetery to Memorial Park. 10:30 a.m. 3 01-694-0829. www.visitfrederick.org Frederick During the Civil War Walking Tour Nov. 11 Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. Explore what it was like to live in Frederick during the Civil War. Stories include the last Confederate invasion of the North, the ransom of Frederick and the Battle of Monocacy. 10:30 a.m. $.

301-663-1188. www.frederickhistory.org Living History Demonstration Nov. 11 National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St. Civil War hospital medical care comes to life with unique displays at this special living history event. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $. 301-695-1864. www.civilwarmed.org Holiday Bazaar Nov. 11 Calvary United Methodist Church, 131 W. 2nd St. Ring in the holiday season at this benefit featuring vendors, crafters, baked goods, a silent auction, white elephant items, live music, food and more. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. 301-662-1464. www.calvaryumc.org

AXEL & GRACE | HAGERSTOWN

The Cabaret Nov. 11 New Spire Stages, 15 W. Patrick St. Broadway on Harewood, a performing ensemble of musicians, singers and dancers, presents a cabaret featuring Broadway music from the Golden Era to the present. 2 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org Alan Cumming and Ari Shapiro: Och and Oy! A Considered Cabaret Nov. 11 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Known for transporting audiences to other worlds through their stories, actor Alan Cumming and radio journalist Ari Shapiro perform an exclusive debut of tall tales and tunes presented with trademark talent and humor. 7:30 p.m. $.

301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Continues on page 86.

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“I think once you start playing this sport you love it,” says Cetrone. “You just keep going and doing the best you can and look forward to playing.”

His teammate, 81-year-old Tom Tanton, agrees.

“It’s a very social thing at this age,” he says. “Being in the locker room beforehand and getting dressed and all the chatter going on and then afterwards the same thing. It’s fun. It’s a great sport.”

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It’s a sport enjoyed by many in Frederick County, as participants, coaches and spectators. From youth leagues to the beer or adult leagues and everything in between, ice hockey is thriving locally. Those playing range from boys and men to girls and women to those who face specific challenges, such as deafness.

“Hockey is big in Frederick and a lot bigger than people realize,” says Neal Jerrell, who coaches teams for the Frederick Freeze, a youth travel hockey club, and also plays in an adult league. “The hockey community is intertwined. Everyone knows each other and loves the sport. We coach together during the day and play against each other in the beer leagues at night.”

That love starts early. Carlo Pauli, 5, began skating at the age of 3 and is currently participating in Learn to Play through the recreational Victory Hockey Program at Skate Frederick. According to his mother, Graziella Bianchi, Carlo has become quite taken with the game. Not that anyone in his family is surprised.

“My husband has been playing ice hockey since he was a little bit older than Carlo,” says Bianchi.

“When we got married it was understood without

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to the ice as a toddler and now plays with the Frederick Freeze. And Laura has spent her own time on the ice playing and even working at Skate Frederick, where she drove a Zamboni. “He was always here, so …,” she says nodding toward her husband.

While Laura no longer plays and now describes herself as a hockey wife and mom, Eric, who also co-hosts a hockey podcast called Beers in the Lot, has not put down the stick. Besides coaching hockey, he plays for a league called the Old Fat Bald Guys or OFBG. “We’re just about getting together and enjoying the game,” says Eric. And doing some good while at it.

question that our children would be playing ice hockey. Now his passion for this sport has rubbed off on his son.”

As evidenced by Carlo’s family, hockey is very often a family affair. Sometimes even creating them. Frederick couple Eric and Laura Rigsby actually met through hockey. Eric was playing for the club team at UMBC. “I was in a chat room trying to drum up some people to come to our games,” he says.

One of those people was Laura, who took him up on his offer and came out. Although, “I didn’t really understand the game,” she says. However, she wasn’t too thrilled by the reception she received from Eric. “I waited for him after the game, but when he came out, he didn’t say a word to me,” says Laura. “We had a bad game,” adds Eric with a grin and a slight shrug of his shoulders.

Laura left to go to her car with her friend. “I was mad,” she says. When Eric walked out of the building, “I stepped out of my car and yelled at him, ‘You make me drive an hour and a half and you’re not even going to say hi to me?’” says Laura.

Finally, Eric spoke, saying, “Can you give me a ride back to my dorm?”

She did.

Fast forward to today and the couple have a hockey-playing son of their own. Fifteen-year-old Austin took

This year’s 17th annual OFBG Ice Hockey Summer Tournament, played in memory of a teammate, a veteran who died by suicide, raised more than $20,000 for local charity Platoon 22, which works to help struggling veterans.

Unlike the Rigsbys, Nicole Holler and her husband, Justin, didn’t see hockey in their future. “My husband was a basketball and baseball player, and I think he was hoping we’d have basketball and baseball players,” she says. “I was a swimmer.” Adding with a chuckle, “But we got none of the above.”

Her son, Lukas, attended a Washington Capitals hockey game at the age of 4 and decided that was the

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sport for him. Both Lukas, now 16, and his younger brother, Maddox, 8, play travel hockey with the Freeze.

Lukas is a student at Walkersville High School and also plays high school hockey for the Middletown Valley Hockey Association. Some high schools in the area have their own teams, while others are created through co-ops with players from different schools.

“The good news is the practices are different days,” says Holler. “The bad is when we add the high school team, we are at the rink six days a week.”

Through its programs, from rec to travel to high school, Frederick develops impressive hockey players. Urbana High School, under the direction of coach Toby Heusser, has been Monocacy Valley Hockey League champions during the 2010-2011, 2018-19 and 202223 seasons. The league consists of teams from Frederick, Carroll and Washington counties.

“My goal is just to have the players enjoy the game,” says Heusser, who has been named Coach of the Year by both the local league and the Maryland Student Hockey League. “Players who want to come to the rink and want to be around their teammates. That strong community that you build in the locker room and strong culture you have as a team leads to victories.”

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The bonds last once those players are no longer on the ice and under his direction. Heusser, an accomplished player himself who was selected to the USA Hockey player development camp in 2018, has been invited to the weddings of former players and is sent baby pictures of their new arrivals. “That’s the stuff that means the most to me—the friendships and relationships you make through the years,” he says.

Some players choose to continue playing even after high school. “I couldn’t imagine myself at college not playing,” says Jared Kifer, a forward who plays at Davenport University in Michigan. Jared was a student at Thomas Johnson High School and played as part of a co-op team.

Kifer is not only playing hockey but studying sports management and hopes to become a coach. This past summer he worked at Skate Frederick as an assistant coach. “It was like looking at myself 10 years earlier,” he says.

More women and girls are taking to the sport as well.

According to USA Hockey, participation in girls’ hockey programs has increased 65 percent over the last 15 years. In fact, Hood College will be introducing a women’s ice hockey team during the 2024-2025 winter season. “I currently have six female players on my high school team,” says Heusser.

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the local Mid Maryland Hockey Club and helped raise $2,200 for Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County.

“There’s no family like hockey family,” she says.

The Freeze has recently added two girls-only teams for 12 and older and 14 and older, colloquially known as 12U and 14U. The 12U team began playing last season.

“The team played well above the expectations of a firstyear team,” says Bill Robinson, associate director of girls’ hockey for the Freeze.

The 12U team finished second place in the Chesapeake Bay Hockey League. So, the decision was made to add a second team for 14U. “With two girls’ teams this season and a big enough core of girls who move up to 16U next season, our goal is to expand to three girls’ teams for the next season,” says Robinson, whose daughter plays.

“So many girls love hockey and are really good at it,” says Jerrell, whose daughter, Sydney, plays and who also helped spearhead efforts to create girls-only teams. “I hope it just keeps getting bigger for girls who haven’t discovered the sport of hockey.”

Deann Jackson discovered the game, but she came to it much later in life as a widow who lost her husband to cancer. For Jackson, hitting the ice in her 50s is a way to cope with her grief and isolation.

“Just after my husband passed, I knew that I needed to get out, meet people, see people on a regular basis and develop friendships,” she says. Jackson accomplished all the above with hockey and is giving back as much as she has received from the game. Recently, she skated with

“It’s just about the love of the game, you know?” says Mike O’Neil, associate hockey director for the Freeze.

He has been involved with local hockey since 2005, including running clinics as a coach and player.

“Hockey is for everyone,” O’Neil adds. “It doesn’t discriminate based on your gender, your race or your age.”

That includes players like Cameron and Dylan Vore.

The brothers are both deaf and love hockey. “As far as we know there are only four deaf youth hockey players in Maryland,” says Michelle Vore, their mother.

Currently, Dylan plays with the Frederick Freeze 12U travel team and Cameron with the Frederick Victory 10U rec team. Both have played hockey for several years. Those in the Frederick hockey community are working to ensure that they have the same opportunities as any player.

According to Michelle, the Freeze is providing a deaf coach who helps Dylan during practices and games.

“Cameron’s coaches this year, both of them, know ASL [American Sign Language] to some degree and it has been a really positive experience for him having access to communication,” she says.

Teammates are stepping up, too. “Almost everyone on Dylan’s team is trying to learn some sign language,” says Vore. “It’s really cool seeing a hockey team bond through sign language like this.”

Coaches for both boys work together to find ways that will make the sport more accessible. For example, “We got an app we’re going to try that’s voice to text,” says Jason Morrill, one of Cameron’s coaches. “So, if I can’t sign him something, at least I can speak into the phone and then he can read what I’m trying to tell him.”

Other game adjustments are also in the works.

“University of Maryland engineering students are trying to create a wrist band that will vibrate when the official blows the whistle,” says Vore. “It’s a semester-long project, and we expect to see the result of their work sometime in December.”

All efforts that matter, says Bill Kinloch, Dylan’s coach. “I’ll never forget when Dylan scored his first goal this season,” he says. “He was on the bench waving to get his dad’s attention to make sure he saw it. That was a good moment.” FM

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Feb. 4, 1967, offered clear skies above the green, mountainous region north of Hanoi, North Vietnam. It was perfect FLying weather for U.S. Air Force Capt.

John Fer, who at age 29 had already successfully piloted 53 missions jamming enemy radar and ground equipment and conducting reconnaissance.

The 54th flight would be his last.

That day, an enemy missile shot down Fer’s aircraft and he was captured, held as a prisoner of war by the North Vietnamese for more than six years—2,220 days—until his release on March 4, 1973. During his confinement at the infamous POW prison known as the Hanoi Hilton, he endured torture and poor conditions, but resolved to survive and bonded with fellow inmates that included a Navy pilot named John McCain.

Fer’s story of imprisonment, release and recovery is told in his book Trampling the Serpent: Vietnam POW—Revealing True Character, published earlier this year. The nearly 600-page volume, a memoir of the Frederick resident’s POW experience, is the result of an undertaking that Fer unknowingly began shortly after being captured.

“The bottom line, I came to realize on that first night of captivity, was besides being a shock to the system—my mental and physical wellbeing—I was alone physically, I was alone materialistically, I was alone without any personal relationship with other people,” says Fer, now 86. “So, what I did was I fell back on those things I call my three faiths, which I think are pretty well captured in the book, and those are my faith in God, faith in family and faith in my country and the other POWs, whom I didn’t know even existed at that point.”

ATTACK FROM BELOW In 1967 Hanoi was the most defended city in history against air attack, with an array of anti-aircraft weapons, surface-to-air missiles and radar shielding the North Vietnamese capital. Determined to break those defenses was the U.S. military, which not only brought the muscle of bombers, fighters and attack planes, but also highly sophisticated equipment aimed at detecting and disabling radar and weapons systems.

Fer piloted a Douglas EB-66C, a repurposed bomber packed with electronic equipment capable of jamming North Vietnamese radar and conducting reconnaissance of enemy sites. For that 54th mission, the aircraft featured a crew of six—Fer and a navigator in the cockpit and four electronic warfare officers, known as “Ravens,” manning the specialized

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jamming and surveillance equipment in the back of the aircraft.

Anti-aircraft artillery, with its limited range and altitude, did not concern Fer very much, but surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) were a real threat, even as he climbed the aircraft 30,000 feet above the North Vietnamese countryside. Still, he believed his plane was beyond the range of Hanoi’s SAMs as he flew a series of “racetrack” ovals while the Ravens went to work.

“I’m flying along there, and I’ve done this thing 53 times, with great confidence in the guys in the back,” Fer recalls. “I didn’t feel any apprehension whatsoever.”

What he didn’t know was that he had flown close enough to a mobile SAM launch site that had been moved into position very recently, possibly the night before, and it began firing at his aircraft.

Suddenly, Fer felt a “thump” on the plane—later determined to be the second of four SAMs fired at his aircraft.

(It is believed the first missile was a miss.) He could not determine if there was any damage to the plane, but he responded as if under fire and took evasive maneuvers, sharply banking the aircraft into a tight turn.

It was too late.

A few seconds later, a third missile struck the nose of airplane, fracturing the Plexiglas cockpit window and delivering a concussive punch to Fer’s ribcage. That was followed by the fourth and fatal SAM, a direct hit that— unbeknown to Fer at the time—split the aircraft in two and killed three of the electronic warfare officers, with the fourth Raven ejecting.

Quickly assessing the aircraft’s perilous condition, Fer decided he and the navigator needed to eject. Unfortunately, he forgot to put on his visor, so the blast of air from ejection caused him to be temporarily blinded, making his descent and parachute deployment even more difficult.

HANOI HILTON Somehow, he managed to land, and his sight restored.

With visible wounds to his elbow and knee, Fer acted immediately to evade the North Vietnamese and hopefully be rescued by the “Jolly Greens,” helicopters that would fly into enemy territory to retrieve those shot down. The

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problem was the sound of the missiles striking his plane alerted local villagers who moved to capture those who parachuted to the ground.

“When they heard the bangs, they naturally probably looked and they saw, then, the airplane in flaming halves coming down and they knew where it hit just west of their village,” he says. “So, I hear them coming up. I hear the dogs barking. I said, ‘I got to get out of here.’”

Fer’s escape route, unfortunately, took him into a thicket of impenetrable brush. Unable to retreat his steps because it would take him toward the villagers closing in, he sought refuge in a tight space behind a banana palm.

He was quickly discovered. “What they saw was my back.

Then all hell broke loose [with the villagers] screaming, hollering. They all came down and surrounded me.”

The villagers stripped Fer of most of his clothes and belongings, including his Smith & Wesson .38. “One guy

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points it at me. And it was such an impossibly silly thing to do, but I slowly reached out and I pushed it away, and he didn’t even resist it,” he says. In fact, a medic was called, and Fer’s wounds were even bandaged.

But any feelings of goodwill were lost after the all-night ride to Hanoi and arrival at the notorious Hỏa Lò Prison. Soon after arriving at the facility that would become known as the Hanoi Hilton, Fer underwent his first rounds of interrogation and torture.

In accordance with Geneva Conventions, Fer offered his name, rank, serial number and date of birth. The North Vietnamese officer, speaking perfect English, wanted more. “He said, ‘What is your unit?’ I told him, ‘I can’t tell you that.’” Unsatisfied with the response, an enlisted man assisting the officer moved in on Fer. “He comes rushing over and he clubs me in the side of the face, like to knock me into next week. Really rocked me a good one.” Again, the officer asked him what unit Fer belonged to, again Fer refused. Another slap from the enlisted man.

After Fer’s third refusal, he was bound behind his back with a strap and pair of handcuffs, so tightly that he felt his circulation being cut off. Then the officer and en-

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listed man left the room. “The pain got so great that I shouted out to them after about 25, 30 minutes, “I said, ‘OK, I’ll tell you, I’ll tell you,” Fer says. But he didn’t tell them and back to the strap and handcuffs he went.

The torture eventually led Fer to reveal the name of the unit, but the interrogators moved on to their real goal of getting Fer to disclose tactical information.

Then they started asking about his family, famous people he knew, and questions laced with war propaganda. “I just made up all sorts of ridiculous answers to that sort of stuff,” he says.

LIFE INSIDE Fer spent four months in solitary confinement, but during that time he discovered he was not alone. One evening, while pacing in his dank cell, he heard American voices coming through a window. “I said, “Who’s out there?’ And there was dead silence. I said, ‘Who’s out there?’ And they said, ‘Who are you?’ I said, ‘I am John Fer.’ The voice came back and said, ‘Were you shot down?’ I said, ‘Yeah.’ ‘When?’ I said, ‘The fourth of February.’ The voice came back and said, ‘This year?’

I thought to myself, ‘What the hell year is he talking about.’ I said, ‘Yeah.’

The man on the other side of the wall was Sam Johnson, an Air Force pilot shot down and captured in 1966.

Johnson would spend seven years in captivity. He had another question for Fer. “Do you know the code?”

A flash of recollection took Fer back to the interrogation room, where he saw a note about a code the POWs were using. He knew some of the basics but needed Johnson to teach him the finer points. That night, using a bar of soap and a rusty nail, he scribbled down the code as Johnson tapped on the wall.

Communication with the other POWs helped, as did his transfer out of solitary, but months began to roll by.

Fer believed something might happen to end the war before the 1968 presidential election. “I expected something big to happen in 1968 … but it didn’t.” His unwavering belief in his eventual release was tested by the passage of time, the poor conditions, the hostile guards and feelings of isolation. Then months became years.

What kept him going?

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“My big thing was prayer, faith in God and prayer,” he says. In addition to religion, Fer leaned on two other beliefs that strengthened his resolve—a belief in his fellow POWs and a belief in his family. “Those were the big three.”

One hot summer day, the guards caught Fer and his cellmates tapping on the wall. For punishment, Fer and the others were restricted to leg irons, wearing long sleeves and trousers in the scorching heat. “These people were really contradictory. On one hand they would be torturing you during the day but at night they insisted you hang a mosquito net over your bed, so you didn’t get malaria or some other disease,” he says.

Making captivity more difficult was his decision not to write letters home, as many other POWs did, including his navigator and the surviving Raven from his crew.

“I made up my mind when I was captured, I was not going to ask these SOBs [guards] for anything. I did not want them to hold it over my head: ‘If we do this, you’ll give us that,’” Fer says.

Following a failed rescue attempt of POWs by American forces in 1970, the North Vietnamese decided to centralize many of the prisoners. It was then that Fer met future U.S. Sen. John McCain. They became fast friends, with Fer asking questions about McCain’s military family, the U.S. Naval Academy and many other topics.

“John, I found out, was a guy with incredible courage and strength. He was really broken up physically,” Fer says. “We used to walk and .. he always walked dragging that one leg and his elbows were misshapen because they didn’t properly heal.”

RELEASE AND RENEWAL In late 1972, word began trickling into the prison that peace talks were taking place to end the war. In fact, negotiations in Paris between the United States and North Vietnam progressed but broke down by December, leading to the American bombing of Hanoi and Haiphong with more than 20,000 tons over ordnance over 11 days.

“I never saw a display of air power like that,” Fer says. “This went on around the clock, 24 hours a day.”

It was the final major military operation by the United State in the Vietnam War. Within weeks an announcement was made in the camp that a peace agreement was to be signed Jan. 27 and POWs would then be released in order of their dates of capture. The first prisoners were released Feb. 12 and another group on Feb. 18. Fer was finally released March 4.

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After a stop for medical examinations at Clark Air Base in the Philippines, Fer and other POWs flew home to March Air Force Base in his native California on March 8. As the plane taxied to the hangar, Fer noticed the building was full of family and friends to greet the servicemen. Each POWs name was announced as he descended the steps of the plane.

“I hadn’t put one foot on the ground yet and my mother was running like hell to me,” he says with a smile. The emotional reunion was captured by a wire service photographer. Fer remained at the base for three months of convalescence, “but I didn’t really need it.”

He did need treatment, at long last, for a small lump beneath his skin near his ribcage. Doctors removed a tiny piece of shrapnel, slightly larger than a BB, believed to be part of the missile that struck the nose of his plane and punched him in the side.

For his actions in Vietnam, Fer earned the Silver Star, the United States’ third-highest military decoration for valor in combat, and many other decorations.

But his career in the military was not over. Fer never doubted he would

stay in the Air Force after his release. “I wanted to go back flying again … and I did,” he says. In fact, he stayed in the Air Force until 1990, retiring as a colonel. His posts included serving in the Pentagon as principal adviser for POW and MIA affairs to the secretary of defense. His post-military career included 14 years as the principal of a Catholic elementary school.

Fer married his wife, Nancy, in 1974. They moved to Frederick about a decade ago to be closer to their adult children and grandchildren.

Fer insists he carries no emotional scars or lingering trauma from his captivity and the years taken from his freedom, and the reasons why have perplexed him at times. “That’s why I believe in divine providence,” he says. “I think we are what we are created to be, and how we are raised and educated by our families.” FM

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✶

BY SCOTT GROVE

… with Rev. Barbara Kershner Daniel

Talking History

MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN MARYLAND NARROWLY PASSED IN A STATEWIDE REFERENDUM IN NOVEMBER 2012. It is questionable whether marriage among same-sex partners would have been supported by Frederick County voters had it not been for the efforts of a local faith community led by Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ. Rev. Barbara Kershner Daniel recalls the events that led to the referendum’s passage.

Scott: The original Civil Marriage Protection Act was first introduced in the Maryland General Assembly in 2011.

How supportive was your church of this issue?

Barbara: I was following the discussions on the legislation in 2011 but honestly thought it was going to pass. The church was not engaged in those early discussions as a “church community.” We mobilized when the bill was withdrawn in that session and committed ourselves to its passage in the next legislative session. Knowing that the withdrawal of the bill was, in large measure, due to some religious voices opposing civil marriage protection, we recognized that we had a responsibility for legislators to know that there were faith traditions that honored civil marriage for all. We mobilized because this legislation was critical for the health, well-being and, frankly, safety of couples and families in our congregation.

Scott: When reintroduced in 2012, the wording of the bill was changed to include language that protected religious leaders and institutions from legal actions in response for refusing to officiate same-sex marriages. How did your church feel about this?

Barbara: Our discussions focused on the importance of civil marriage protections with the understanding that some religious traditions would be unable to support the marriage of two same-gender, loving people. We always respected those of other religious traditions to honor their own theological understanding of marriage. At the same time, we hoped our theological grounding of marriage—as the love between two people—would be honored by those of other religious faiths.

Scott: The bill was signed into law in March 2012, but enough public signatures were obtained to call for a referendum, known as Question 6 on the ballot in that November’s general election. What was the church’s response to this?

Barbara: With support from the wider United Church of Christ leadership in Maryland and beyond, our church indicated that it was willing and able to take a leadership role in gathering the faith community to support civil marriage. We believed that the legislation was a matter of justice and equality because members of our congregations and families in our community were being hurt with the denial of equal protection under the law. It was our conviction from our faith perspective that this was a matter of justice and our faith calls for us to speak out whenever there is injustice.

Scott: What were some of the major efforts taken on by your church and its network?

Barbara: A committed group from the church gathered in 2011 to brainstorm actions we could take, with others, to move marriage equality forward. We named the group Congregations United for Marriage Equality. Our first event was held in January of 2012 to

a packed social room in our church as we invited elected officials to hear the personal stories of members of our churches and the community and why the passage of this bill was important. In addition, we formed a group specific to the United Church of Christ called Advocating for Marriage Equality Now. United Church of Christ clergy and lay members were committed to moving marriage equality forward in Maryland.

Scott: Do you recall events that caused you to feel inspired during this campaign?

Barbara: The January 2012 event was very inspiring. There was a large group from across a number of congregations, Christian and Jewish, who pledged to work on this issue. Members of the church traveled by bus to lobby our delegation. We held an October 14 rally on the steps of our church. Members and friends of the church made phone calls twice a week for months. We met with Marylanders for Marriage Equality who provided materials and training. We held a training session for clergy and lay leaders on how to communicate with the press.

Scott: On Nov. 6, 2012, Question 6 narrowly passed by a 52.4 percent majority. Were you surprised when you learned the outcome?

Barbara: I worked the polls on Nov. 6 and felt fairly optimistic with conversations I had. That evening, I was invited to the home of one of our church couples, two women who had been in a relationship for more than 25 years with the hope that they could marry in the new year. As we watched the returns, I experienced their hope for a positive outcome. Pastorally, I knew that if Question 6 had not passed, we, as a congregation, would be accompanying a very large group of hurt couples, families and the ones who love them.

Scott: What was the most important lesson this experience taught you?

Barbara: Working for justice requires effort, cooperation, creativity and a lot of hope. The conversations we held while working on this issue also taught me that it is possible to have a respectful exchange with people who share differing opinions. And, on this issue and others, it is important that there is a broad-based group advocating for our neighbors and friends. If it affects one group in our community, it affects us all.

Rev. Barbara Kershner Daniel was born in Reading, Pa., and moved to Frederick in 2006. She retired this June after 40 years of work in the ministry. A former reporter,. Scott Grove is the owner of Grove Public Relations, LLC, an advertising and marketing firm. A former reporter and lifelong student of history, his work also includes interpretive planning and design for museums and historic sites. Grove is the co-creator of the Frederick Maryland Walking Tour mobile app.

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Tip Me Frederick responds to reports of outdoor cats in need of attention by providing food and medical attention, including neutering and fostering.

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Cat’s Best Friend

Tip Me Frederick Volunteers, Veterinarians Come to the Rescue for At-Risk Felines

BY KATE POINDEXTER ✶ PHOTOGRAPHY BY TURNER PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

S

SOME PAMPERED CATS MIGHT ENJOY THE LUXURY OF LIVING NINE LIVES, BUT MANY OTHERS LEAD A HARDSCRABBLE LIFE OUTDOORS. They face injury, disease and predators. Sadly, they also suffer cruelty at the hands of humans.

Volunteers from Tip Me Frederick respond when people find outdoor cats that need attention.

They adhere to the trap-neuter-return-manage (TNRM) method of animal care. They provide food and medical attention, including neutering and fostering for cats found throughout the county.

They then return cats to their outdoor communities when they are healthy and follow up with caregivers who keep a watchful eye on the feline friends.

“We’re here to help people with outdoor cats,” says Babs Wratten, Tip Me Frederick’s president.

“Whatever you want to call them— community cats, outdoor cats— they’re just cats that need our help.”

The organization’s name refers to the practice of surgically altering the tip of a cat’s left ear after medical treatment to signal that the animal has been neutered/spayed and vaccinated. The procedure is done by the veterinarians who have cared for the animals in clinical settings. A network

of people, mostly volunteers, work in tandem to deliver life-changing services for animals in need. They also try to help human neighbors develop a better understanding and appreciation of cats.

Tip Me Frederick also assists people who have become cat caretakers as they manage food, water, shelter and other resources. They also perform a public relations function encouraging people to accept and understand outdoor cats that may live side-by-side them in their neighborhoods.

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trending The organization’s name refers to the practice of surgically altering the tip of a cat’s left ear after medical treatment to signal that the animal has been neutered/spayed and vaccinated. It adheres to the trap-neuter-return-manage (TNRM) method of animal care.

How many outdoor cats are living in Frederick County? Dr. Sara Hoewing of Vet Trek, a mobile clinic with a home office in the Libertytown/Mt. Pleasant area, estimates that they number in the thousands. She says many of them live in colonies, on farms and around commercial buildings. Since female cats can have up to 30 kittens in a year, shelters become overpopulated, so spaying and neutering becomes essential to alleviating the situation. That’s why when Tip Me Frederick calls, she answers.

“Tip Me Frederick uses their funds for surgical spay and neuter and rabies vaccinations and I do a lot of the … spaying and neutering. I do it on an as-needed basis, sometimes one or two days a week,” says Hoewing. She also treats cats for injuries and illnesses.

She says kittens, in particular, often

have upper respiratory infections and eye problems. She administers antibiotics and other medications as needed. She says a large part of her time is dedicated to rescue organizations and emphasizes that there are other vets who make time to do this kind of work.

The need is great, but so is the motivation among the organization’s volunteers. On any given day they are out placing traps to safely capture animals in need, transporting them to veterinarians in Frederick County and nearby Adams County in Pennsylvania. They visit caregivers often and spend time soliciting and collecting donations of food, money and other resources. They are always looking for people to join them.

“If you have a talent for something, we probably need it,” says

Angela Brittain, the group’s treasurer and public relations volunteer. She says she will talk to anybody who is interested in helping. “We can only do as much work as we have volunteers and vets.”

Brittain has volunteered with TNRM organizations since the early 1990s in Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia. She shares stories of humanely trapping and transporting cats and occasionally finding other animals, either in her traps or eating food she has left out for cat communities. She jokes, “If it’s on my porch and it’s trapped, it’s getting fixed.”

But she is quite serious when she asks for help from people who may be considering donating time, talent, or money. “If you want to support an animal organization stay grass roots, stay local,” she says.

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trending The number of outdoor cats in Frederick County could number in the thousands. Many live in colonies, on farms and around commercial buildings. Since female cats can birth up to 30 kittens a year, spaying and neutering becomes essential to alleviating the situation.

The organization accepts monetary donations through its website, applies for grants and participates with local businesses in organizing fundraising events. This past summer, Thanksgiving Farms in Adamstown donated the proceeds from one of its weekly Giving Fields Bouquets to help Tip Me Frederick. Enough money was raised in that single event to spay 14 female cats.

While the main focus is on TNRM, Tip Me Frederick sometimes finds cats that can’t be returned to colonies because they have ongoing medical conditions, or they are very young and require specialized care. Foster and adoption director Dawn Moore, who joined in 2018 after having worked with the Washington County Humane Society says, “I’m motivated by bettering the lives of kittens and cats.

We are their voice and advocate.”

She says she loves helping foster families take care of kittens. “We are bound to find kittens as young as a few days old to a few weeks old

needing us to intervene, especially if a mother cat is not around. Or kittens needing help like being very sick or injured in someone’s backyard, under a deck, or behind a store or gas station.

We scoop them up.”

Moore evaluates the kittens and reaches out to veterinarians for advice and care. Then she transfers them to available fosters. The kittens remain under Tip Me Frederick’s care until they are healthy and old enough to be spayed or neutered. During that time, they are dewormed, given vaccinations and any medications or other necessary medical treatment. “We work with other rescues. Some specialize in neonatal babies/bottle babies. We support each other in any way we can,” says Moore.

Cats may be beneficial to their human neighbors. Dr. Hoewing points out barn cats are a sub-group of outdoor cats. “They are not like wild animals. They have shelter and food provided by farmers,” she says.

In exchange for those comforts, they

perform work, keeping rodents and other pests at bay. It’s a symbiotic relationship that Tip Me Frederick encourages.

Volunteers acknowledge that cats hold a special place in their hearts.

They are unabashedly pro-cat but understand that not everyone shares their sentiments. To the non-cat people in the community, they just ask that they do no harm and call Tip Me Frederick if there is a nuisance situation. They work with other animal organizations to take action to alleviate stressful interactions between people and cats.

At their core, Tip Me Frederick volunteers are animal lovers who network with others to address the overpopulation situation through neutering and health care. “Kittens are deadly cute,” says Dawn Moore. “It’s like eating potato chips. You cannot stop at one. But if I can help opossums or bats, I’d do that in a heartbeat. They are equally adorable.”

For more information, go to tipmefrederick.org. FM

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10 Tavern

10 E. Main St., Thurmont. 301-271-7422.

Classic all-American cuisine. $

Agave 137 Tequila Bar & Kitchen

137 N. Market St, Frederick. 240-439-4367.

Best margaritas, tacos and entertainment on Market St. $$

★ Voted “Best of Frederick” 2022 - $ entrées $8 and under - $$ entrées $8–$15 - $$$ entrées $15 and over

Airways Inn

310 Aviation Way, Frederick. 301-228-2100.

Sandwiches, salads and more. Adjacent to airport. $

A.K.A. Friscos

4632 Wedgewood Blvd., Frederick.

301-698-0018. Upbeat sandwich shop also offering house-roasted meats, salads and potatoes. $$ ★

Aleko’s Village Café

4304 Old National Pike, Middletown.

301-371-3500. Greek, vegetarian and vegan specialties, subs and salads. $

Analia’s Café

480-A Prospect Blvd., Frederick.

301-378-8663. Greek cuisine, lunch and dinner. $$ ★

Anchor Bar

5605 Spectrum Dr., Frederick.

240-651-5580. Home of the Original Buffalo Wing. $$ ★

Antrim 1844 Smokehouse Restaurant

30 Trevanion Road, Taneytown.

410-756-6812. Open daily for dinner.

French-American cuisine. Reservations required. $$$ ★

Atlantic Grille

3531 John Simmons St., Suite D-05, Urbana. 301-810-5220. American steak and seafood restaurant. $-$$$

B. Anderson’s Backyard Experience

1448 W. Patrick St, Frederick.

301-898-2075. Farm-to-table soul food with a Jamaican fusion experience. Serving lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Beans & Bagels

Beef ‘n Buns ‘n Paradise

Bushwaller’s

Belles’ Sports Bar & Grill

The Buzz Café

1448 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-898-2075.

Big burgers and great ice cream selections. $ ★

1202 E. Patrick St., Frederick.

301-696-9623. Great ribs and other American fare. $

Bellisario’s Pizza

934 N. East St., Frederick.

301-662-9233. Sauce and dough made fresh daily. $$ ★

209 N. Market St., Frederick.

301-695-6988. Irish fare in an attractive pub setting. $$-$$$ 11801 Fingerboard Road, Suite 3, Monrovia. 301-865-4900. Scratch bakery and café that features breakfast and lunch items as well as custom cakes and goodies. $-$$

Cacique

26 N. Market St., Frederick. 301-695-2756.

Fine Spanish and Mexican cuisine. $$-$$$ ★

Big Papi’s

Café Bueno

Black Hog BBQ & Bar

Café Nola

5711 Industry Lane, Frederick. 240-651-5969.

Authentic Mexican dishes. $-$$ 118 S. Market St., Frederick. 301-662-9090.

221 Shorebird St., Frederick. 301-662-9600.

3323 Worthington Blvd., Urbana.

240-699-0070. 100 Middletown Pkwy, Middletown. 240-490-8147. Specializing in various styles of barbecue. $$ ★

Bollinger’s Restaurant and Uncle Dirtys Brew Works

210 N. Church St., Thurmont.

301-668-1522. Home-cooked meals, fresh baked pies, cakes and desserts. $$-$$$

Bonefish Grill

1305 W. 7th St., Frederick. 301-271-3500.

Contemporary grill chain offering a seafood-centric menu, plus steaks and cocktails. $$$

Brewer’s Alley

124 N. Market St., Frederick.

301-631-0089. Contemporary American regional cuisine and microbrewery. $$

Buffalo Wild Wings

210 Shorebird St., Frederick.

301-662-1333.

3335 Worthington Blvd., Ijamsville.

240-699-0313.

Chicken wings, sandwiches and other family fare. $ ★

49 E. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-620-2165.

Light breakfasts and lunches. $ ★

255 E. 4th St. 301-620-8858. Authentic Mexican food. Burritos a favorite. $-$$ ★ 4 E. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-694-6652.

Bistro café. Coffee, tea and sandwiches. $ ★

Callahan’s Seafood Bar & Grill

1808 Rosemont Ave., Frederick.

301-698-9596. Fresh seafood. $$

Carriage House Inn

200 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg.

301-447-2366. Traditional dishes served in a colonial setting. $$$ ★

Carroll Valley Golf Course

121 Sanders Road, Fairfield, Pa. 888-330-4202. American cuisine. $-$$$

CarterQue Barbeque & Grilling Co.

1310 S. Main St., Mount Airy.

301-829-2222. Award-winning barbecue and seafood dishes. $-$$ ★

Casa Rico

1399 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

301-663-3107. Mexican fare in a comfortable, pleasant setting. $-$$

Cellar Door Restaurant

5 E. Church St., Frederick. 301-695-8460.

American Casual Cuisine & Cocktail Lounge. $-$$$ ★

Chatime Tea

5219 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick.

301-378-2530. Bubble tea. $

Chef Lin Buffet

417 S. Jefferson St., Frederick.

301-620-0664. Asian cuisine. $-$$

Chili’s Grill & Bar

5100 Pegasus Court, Frederick.

301-662-8130. Fresh Tex & Mex. $$

China Garden

506 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-695-5055.

Asian cuisine. $-$$ ★

crave

Clay Oven Restaurant

Avery’s Maryland Grille

1170 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-631-2004.

Indian, Nepalese cuisine. $$-$$$

9009 Baltimore Road, Frederick, 301-228-2722. Fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, burgers and wings. $-$$$ ★

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Coal Fire

7820 Wormans Mill Road, Frederick.

301-631-2625. Coal-fired pizza, sand- wiches, salads and dinner entrées. $-$$

Common Market

927 W. 7th St., Frederick. 301-663-3416.

Organic fare and vegetarian specialties, takeout. $

The Comus Inn at Sugarloaf Mountain

23900 Old Hundred Road, Dickerson.

301-349-5100. Fine dining at the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain. $$$

Crabapples Delicatessen

101 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-694-0208.

Traditional New York–style deli. $ ★

Cucina Massi

111 E. Patrick St., Frederick.

301-624-1052. Italian and more. Small plate appetizers to share. $$-$$$ ★

Cugino Forno

1705 N. Market St., Frederick. 301-835-9575.

Neapolitan pizza. $$

Delhi 6 Indian Restaurant

5732 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick.

301-698-9970. Authentic Indian cuisine. $$-$$$

Delizia Café

14 E. Patrick St. 240-439-4265. Great spot for coffee and pastries, along with Italian dishes. $-$$

The Derby Restaurant and Bar

83 W. Main St., New Market. 301-865-2222.

Casual family-friendly spin using locally grown produce and ingredients. Full bar. $$

Distilled

221 Shorebird St., Frederick.

301.228.3629. Craft cocktails and casual eats. $$-$$$

Dublin Roasters Coffee

1780 N. Market St., Frederick.

301-228-9367. Artisan, hand-roasted coffee, featuring organic and fair-trade products. $ ★

Dutch’s Daughter

581 Himes Ave., Frederick. 301-668-9500.

Seafood, steak and poultry specialties. $$$ ★

Fajita Grande

5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. 301-698-8989.

Mexican cuisine. $-$$

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

5201 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick.

315-850-0077. Steakhouse. $$

Firehouse Subs

1700 Kingfisher Drive, Frederick. 301-8982027. 5100 Buckeystown Pike, #194, Frederick.

301-668-6301. A variety of hot gourmet sub sandwiches. Dine in, takeout and catering available. $

Firestone’s Culinary Tavern

105 N. Market St., Frederick. 301-663-0330.

Elegant cuisine in a casual atmosphere. $$-$$$

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Firestone’s Market on Market

113 N. Market St., Frederick. 301-696-8586.

Custom made-to-order sandwiches and salads. Wines, craft beers, specialty and locally-made goods. $-$$

Firestone’s Sidecar

109 N. Market St., Frederick. 301-663-0330.

Serving custom desserts & elegant milk shakes, as well as the full Tavern menu. $-$$$

Flaming Grill & Buffet

1003 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-664-3388.

Chinese, Japanese and American cuisine. $-$$

Fratelli’s Italian & Seafood

200 Middletown Parkway, Middletown.

301-371-4000. Made-from-scratch Italian classics, homemade pasta, award-winning crab cakes. $$-$$$ ★

Frederick Coffee Company & Café

100 N. East St., Frederick. 301-698-0039.

Coffee specialties, light fare and weekend ­ entertainment. $ ★

Frederick Social

50 Citizens Way, Frederick. 240-629-8525.

Brew pub and cafe. $$ ★

The Garage

440 Prospect Blvd., Frederick. 240-344-5340.

Wood-fired pizza, appetizers, sandwiches, salads and locally brewed beers. $-$$

Frederick Soups

124 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Homemade comfort food and soups. $-$$

Gladchuk Bros. Restaurant

489 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-662-7750.

Hearty international fare. $$$

Glory Days Grill

1305 W. 7th St., Frederick. 301-696-1112.

American grill with a sports theme. $-$$$

Gran Azteca Mexican Food Bar & Grill 6956 Crestwood Blvd., Frederick.

301-378-2785. Authentic Mexican Cuisine. $$-$$$

Hippy Chick Hummus

237 N. Market St., Frederick. 3240-815-7175.

Vegan restaurant. $$ ★

Hootch & Banter

49 S. Market St., Frederick. 301-732-4971.

New American, upscale casual cuisine. $$-$$$ ★

Ibiza Café

8 W. 4th St., Frederick. The best selections of coffee, teas, sandwiches and locally made pastries in a European-style café. $-$$

il Forno Pizzeria

1035 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

301-846-0422. Wood-burning oven-cooked pizza, pasta, sandwiches and salads. $$ ★

il Porto

200 S. Market St., Frederick. 301-620-7480.

245 Muddy Branch Road, Gaithersburg.

301-590-0735. Fine Italian food. $-$$

Indian Wok

8415 Woodsboro Pike, #J, Walkersvillle.

301-304-0103. Traditional Indian fare, along with Indo-Chinese food. $$

Isabella’s Taverna & Tapas Bar

44 N. Market St., Frederick. 301-698-8922.

Tapas. $$ ★

JB Seafood

308 Main St., Myersville. 301-293-2722.

“From the shore to your door.” Seafood, beef, poultry, pork. $$-$$$

Jasmin Mediterranean Grill

3532-B Urbana Pike, Urbana. 301-363-5877.

Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Dine-in, carryout and catering. $-$$

Jerk It Smoke It

2060 Yellow Springs Road, Frederick.

240-831-4157.Authentic Caribbean-American culinary experience. $-$$

Jerk n’ Jive Caribbean Kitchen

490 Prospect Blvd., Frederick. 301-835-7403.

Authentic Caribbean cuisine. $-$$ ★

JoJo’s Restaurant & Tap House

16 E. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-732-5197.

American fusion. $$-$$$ ★

King’s New York Style Pizza & Italian Restaurant

8415-G Woodsboro Pike, Walkersville.

301-845-4910. Classic pies, subs, pasta dinners. $-$$

Kittiwat Thai Kitchen

5205 Presidents Court, Frederick.

301-631-0999. Authentic Thai cuisine.

Lunch and dinner daily. $-$$$

LAVA Volcanic Grill & Wok

8925 Fingerboard Road, Urbana.

240-483-8475. Asian fusion. $$

La Paz

51 S. Market St., Frederick. 301-694-8980.

Mexican fare. $

Las Tunas

1043 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

240-629-8008. Authentic Mexican food. $$

Lazy Fish

10 E. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-695-9656.

Asian sushi bistro. $-$$$ ★

Ledo Pizza

490-1 Prospect Blvd., Frederick.

301-663-9800.

1293 Riverbend Way, Frederick.

301-694-0050.

3303 Worthington Blvd., Urbana.

240-699-0303.

Pizza, pasta, salads and sandwiches in a casual setting. $-$$

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Old Dominion Grill & Sushi

5732 Buckeystown Pike #18-20, Frederick.

301-682-6888. Family restaurant, American, Japanese, Thai, etc. $-$$$ ★

The Orchard

45 N. Market St., Frederick.

301-663-4912. Flavorful healthy fare and vegetarian selections. $$ ★

Oscar’s Alehouse

906 N. East St., Frederick. 301-378-2793.

Buzzing bar and grill featuring updated American fare and craft beers on tap. $$-$$$

Outback Steakhouse

Modern Asia

1306 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-732-5193. A wide array of authentic Chinese and Thai food. $$ ★

Liberty Road Seafood & Steak

10524 Liberty Road, Frederick. 301-898-3181.

Home of the largest crab in Frederick County. Open all year round. $$$

Los Amigos

205 Frederick Road, Thurmont.

301-271-8888. Mexican food with specials through the week. $$

Lucky Corner Restaurant

5100 Buckeystown Pike, Suite 174, Frederick.

301-360-5913. Vietnamese grill and noodle restaurant. $$ ★

Madrones

7810 Worman’s Mill Road #J, Frederick.

240-439-4010. Traditional American steak and seafood. $$-$$$ ★

Magoo’s Pub & Eatery

1-A W. 2nd St., Frederick. 301-378-2237.

Traditional Irish-American favorites. $$-$$$

The Main Cup

14 W. Main St., Middletown. 301-371-4433.

Casual café and coffeehouse. $-$$$

Manalù Italian Restaurant

5227 Presidents Court, Frederick.

240-578-4831. Authentic Italian restaurant serving traditional foods in a warm and cozy atmosphere. $$-$$$ ★

Mangia e Bevi

Turning Point Center, 8927-J Fingerboard Road, Urbana. 301-874-0338. Italian comfort food at a good value. $-$$$

Mariachi Restaurant

5854 Urbana Pike, Frederick. 301-418-6367.

Fine Spanish and Mexican cuisine. $$ ★

Matsutake Sushi and Steak

crave

5225 Buckeystown Pike (Westview Promenade), Frederick. 301-631-5060.

Hibachi and Japanese cuisine. $-$$$

May’s

5640 Urbana Pike, Frederick.

301-662-4233. Home-cooked meals, crabs. $$ ★

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Mayta’s Peruvian Cuisine

5010 Buckeytown Pike, Suite 148, Frederick. 301-732-4441. Fresh, authen- tic Peruvian cuisine. Serving lunch and dinner. Catering available. $-$$$

Miyako

1005 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-620-0024.

Sushi, noodles, Japanese steak house, specialty cocktails. $$$

Mod Pizza

5256 Buckeystown Pike (Westview Promenade), Frederick. 240-877-7967.

Custom, artisan-style pizza and salads. $-$$

Monocacy Crossing

4424-A Urbana Pike, Frederick.

301-846-4204. American comfort food and fine wine. $$-$$$

Morgan’s American Grill

11717 Old National Pike, New Market.

301-865-8100. A family-friendly restaurant with big city dining. $$-$$$

Mountain Gate Family Restaurant

133 Frederick Rd., Thurmont.

301-271-4373.

Buffet and menu selections. $ ★

Mountain View Diner

1300 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

301-696-1300. All-American diner food. $

New York J&P Pizza

6103 Spring Ridge Pkwy., Frederick.

301-644-1372. Lunch and dinner daily. $$-$$$

North Market Pop Shop

241 N. Market St., Frederick. 240-575-9070.

Trickling Springs Creamery ice cream.

400-plus soda choices. $-$$$ ★

Nutrition 4 UR Mind

5828 Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick.

240-498-6798. Smoothies, Boosted Teas. $

1007 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-662-9584.

Steak and seafood. $$-$$$

Pasquale’s

11670 Old National Pike, New Market.

301-882-7103. Italian restaurant and pizzeria. $$

Patowmack Farm

42461 Lovettsville Road, Lovettsville, Va. 540-822-9017. Seasonal organic cuisine. $$$

Peking Gourmet

5732 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick.

301-846-0001 or 301-846-0002.

Peking-style cuisine. $$

The Pham

1341 Hughes Ford Road, Unit 119D 240-651-0987. Vietnamese cuisine. $$

Pho An Loi

440 Prospect Blvd., Frederick.

301-378-9099. Specializes in Vietnamese dishes, along with Thai food. $$

Pho 52

701 Motter Ave., Frederick.

240-575-9479. Vietnamese dishes including noodle-based pho. $$

P.I.G.S. BBQ Restaurant

2401 Whittier Drive, Frederick.

240-629-8001. BBQ restaurant. $$ ★

Pistarro’s

221 N. East St., Frederick.

301-378-9536. Traditional Naples-style wood-fired pizza, hand-made pastas, beer and Italian wines. $-$$ ★

Plaza Mexico

2481 Merchant St., Frederick.

301-228-9889.

50 Carroll Creek Way #130, Frederick.

240-439-4041.

Mexican fare that’s beyond ordinary. $$-$$$ ★

Prospect Pantry

1 W, Main St. New Market. 240-915-2238.

American Fare. $$

Pumpernickel + Rye

3538-Urbana Pike, Urbana. 240-397-9600.

Market and deli. $-$$

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Ragin’ Reef

Simply Asia Pan Asian Bistro

The Red Horse

South Mountain Creamery

506 E. Church St., Frederick. 240-815-5438.

A casual seafood restaurant with top quality fresh food, affordable prices, and unmatched service. $-$$$ ★ 996 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

301-663-3030. A Frederick institution for great steaks and seafood. $$$ ★

Red Lobster

1020 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

301-846-9474. Fresh seafood. $$

Ricci Restaurant

1021 Mill Pond Road, Frederick.

240-578-4273. Restaurant and wine bar offering tasty Italian dishes, wood-fired pizza and steak. $$

Roasthouse Pub

5700 Urbana Pike, Frederick. 301-418-6098.

Craft beer, American fusion bistro. $$

Rosati’s Pizza

911 W. 7th St., Frederick. 301-694-4650.

Chicago-style pizza, pasta, sandwiches and salads. $$

120 Frederick Road, Suites B&C, Thurmont.

301-271-2858. Chinese, Thai, Japanese, sushi bar, Asian fusion, dine in, carryout, catering. $-$$ 50 Citizen’s Way, Ste. 101, Frederick.

301-383-8790. We take your favorite sweet and savory treats to a whole new level.

Sweet: sundaes, milkshakes, and more.

Savory: Farm-fresh pizzas, made from scratch using fresh, local ingredients. $-$$

South Market Sandwich Co.

105 S. Market St., Frederick. 240-651-3797.

A quaint, gourmet sandwich shop. $$

Starvin Marvin Pizzeria and Subs

6942 Crestwood Blvd., Frederick.

301-695-7827. New York–style pizza, Philadelphia cheesesteaks and more. $

Sumittra Thai

12 E. Patrick St., Frederick.

301-668-2303. Thai favorites including satay, pad thai and garden rolls. $-$$ ★

Sapporo II

Thai Meric Eatery and Bar

1170 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 240-651-0998.

Authentic Thai cuisine. $-$$ ★

Thai Table

5221 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick.

240-877-7034. Thai + Lao cuisine. $$

Hollow Creek Golf Club, 50 Glenbrook Drive, Middletown. 301-371-0400.

Contemporary American cuisine. $-$$

Schroyer’s Tavern

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228 N. Market St., Frederick. 240-332-3186.

Chef Bryan Voltaggio’s cuisine prepared with seasonal, local ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere. $$$

Valley Grill Sports Bar

5 W. Church St.., Frederick. 240-815-7079.

Fine Japanese and Korean dining. $-$$$

5120 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick.

301-694-9501. Award-winning burgers, all-day breakfast, vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. $-$$$ ★

Thacher & Rye

301 N. Market St., Frederick.

240-831-4847. Charming restaurant/ bistro offering full service breakfast, lunch and dinner. Uniqueness and variety with a touch of elegance. $-$$$

107 Baughmans Lane, Frederick.

301-662-9348. Salvadorean and Mexican food. $-$$

Silver Diner

5105 Pegasus Court, Frederick.

301-682-7427. Hand-cut steaks, ribs, fresh-baked rolls and cold beer. $$

Up On Market Bistro

Santa Rosa Restaurant

41 S. Market St., Frederick.

240-575-9876. Seafood, friendly gathering place. $$

Texas Roadhouse

17 Water St., Thurmont. 301-271-4071.

Family owned and operated serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Award winning broasted chicken. $-$$

9 E. Patrick St., Frederick 301-663-1036.

Cuban cuisine. $$

The Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar

244 E. Church St., Frederick.

240-780-8517. Gourmet Italian dishes.

Handmade pasta. $$

Thurmont Kountry Kitchen

Sabor de Cuba

882 N. East St., Frederick. 301-835-7628.

Modern American diner with menu de- signed by celebrity chef Bryan Voltaggio. $$-$$$

Tempo di Pasta

101 N. Market St., Frederick. 240-379-7772.

European cuisine. $$$ ★

17308 N. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg.

301-447-4116. All-you-can-eat seafood, dinner menu, lunch, full-service bar and carryout. $-$$$

Showroom

203 E. Main St., Middletown. 240-490-8461.

Signature brick-oven pizzas, pastas, paninis, house-crafted cocktails. $$-$$$

The Tasting Room

Rube’s Crab Shack

Maryland National Golf Club, 8836 Hollow Road, Middletown. 301-371-0000.

Contemporary American cuisine. $$$

Tapia’s On Main

Tempo di Pasta

244 E. Church St., Frederick.

240-780-8517. Gourmet Italian dishes.

Handmade pasta. $$

Surf House Island Cantina

8925 Fingerboard Road, Urbana.

240-341-7157. Authenic surfer food and drinks. $$

Taco Bar

1450 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-732-5716.

Authentic Mexican fast food. $

Taj Mahal Bar & Grill

1301 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-682-2213.

Authentic Indian fare featuring home made spices. Serving lunch and dinner.

Wine and beer available. $-$$

Wag’s

24 S. Market St., Frederick. 301-694-8451.

Classic hamburgers and fries. $ ★

White Rabbit Gastropub

18 Market Space, Frederick. 240-651-1952.

Craft beer house serving high-end beer and food. $-$$

Wilcom’s Inn

11234 Fingerboard Road, Monrovia.

301-798-8686. Iconic local landmark. International steakhouse and sports bar. $-$$

The Wine Kitchen on the Creek

150 Caroll Creek Way, Ste. 160, Frederick.

301-663-6968. Wine bar with American bistro fare. $$ ★

Zi Pani Café Bistro

177A Thomas Johnson Drive, Frederick.

301-620-1932. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Casual dining with full bar. $-$$ ★

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lifestyles

Wertheimer honoree Patricia Rosensteel saw firsthand the needs of local families during her career with Frederick County government. Facing page: Sharon Jacko believes in a civic duty to help the community.

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Steadfast Service

Wertheimer Fellow Awards Honor Dedicated Community Volunteers

BY GINA GALLUCCI-WHITE ✶ PHOTOGRAPHY BY TURNER PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

W

WHEN THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF FREDERICK COUNTY ASKS FOR NOMINATIONS FOR ITS ANNUAL Wertheimer Fellow Awards, CEO Elizabeth Y. Day is always impressed by the outstanding submissions. “It makes you proud to be part of a community that places so much value and commitment on volunteer service.”

Named for late businesswoman and volunteer Janis Miller Wertheimer, the awards were created more than two decades ago when the Frederick resident left the foundation a generous donation through her estate to support community organizations.

“Her volunteer work was a way of staying connected as well as giving back,” Day says of Wertheimer. “She was very generous with her time as well as her treasure. She was concerned about current state of affairs but also had a long-term view on the impact she wanted to create.”

Adult award winners receive $25,000 each to create a new

charitable fund or add to an existing one to support organizations and causes of their choice.

The youth award was created in 2012 and gives recipients $2,000 to present to the nonprofit of their choice.

This year’s adult recipients are Patricia Rosensteel and Sharon Jacko. Youth awardees are Ilka Tona and Pragna Yalamanchili.

“I think all four of our honorees this year are inspirational,” Day says. “Our young folks are giving so much back to their communities. They are finding a need and filling it which puts great faith back into this gener-

ation that is coming up. With our two adult awardees, I just look at them and say, ‘Wow. What a great way to continue to be involved in retirement and to create impact for us all.’”

PATRICIA ROSENSTEEL With a career that included time as director of Frederick County Head Start and the county’s Citizens Services Division, Patricia Rosensteel saw firsthand the needs of local families. So, when it came time to volunteer, she chose causes that focus on families and how they deal with their economic situations and other stressors in their lives.

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lifestyles Youth award recipient Ilka Tona is a native of Rwanda who was drawn to volunteering through tradition in her culture. “It’s all about collective action for the community and it is, in part, the reason I’ve always been inclined to volunteerism even after leaving Rwanda,” she says.

Since retiring, Rosensteel is nearly full time with her volunteer commitments. She has served in various roles over the years for Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership and has been the organization’s board president for nearly two years. She is a member of the Frederick County United Way Community Impact Committee, Frederick County Local Management Board, the Zonta Club of Frederick, the Frederick County Interagency Early Childhood Committee, Maryland 2-1-1 and Frederick County ACEs Workgroup.

“I feel like I still have something to offer,” she says. “I feel like what you know you owe. … I can’t even imagine staying home and not doing this work knowing those needs are out there and doing something about it. You’ve got to feel like you are making some kind of a difference even if it is a small piece.”

With her award money, she chose to create The Rosensteel

Family Fund Grant to support basic family needs of women and children.

SHARON JACKO When Sharon Jacko retired as a lieutenant colonel in the United States Marines Corps in 2008, she had a plan. “I made a pledge to myself that I wanted to give back to the community I loved,” she says.

She did that by volunteering with several local organizations over the years. She served in leadership roles with Heartly House, the United Way of Frederick County, the Frederick County Veterans Advisory Council, the Literacy Council of Frederick County, the Frederick County Health Care Coalition and the Rotary Club of Carroll Creek. “It is our civic duty to help the community we are in,” Jacko says. “That’s what drives me.”

When picking an organization to support, Jacko notes she has to have a passion for the mission.

“I have to believe in what they are doing and how they are helping the community and its citizens,” she says.

Military causes are close to her, so Jacko started the Sharon and Jeanne Jacko Veterans Fund at the Community Foundation. Her sister Jeanne was also a U.S. Marine and the sisters want the fund to benefit nonprofits assisting veterans.

Jacko hopes the fund aids veterans in need and provides them information and resources about the community’s support.

ILKA TONA A native of Rwanda, Ilka Tona was first drawn to volunteering through tradition in her culture. Umuganda is a holiday held on the last Saturday or Sunday of the month where people volunteer for their community or home.

“It’s all about collective action for the community and it is, in part, the reason I’ve always been inclined to volunteerism even after leaving

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lifestyles Oakdale High School senior Pragna Yalamanchili has volunteered in and organized many environmental efforts at her school. “I just think [volunteering] is one of the most rewarding things you can do with your time,” Yalamanchili says.

Rwanda,” she says. “I have always felt that intrinsic inclination to help others wherever and however I can.

The collectivist culture certainly shaped my love for volunteering, and I have carried through life.”

A 2023 graduate Middletown High School, Tona was a member of the school’s Key Club, where she president her senior year. Through the organization, she helped to organize service projects to support area nonprofits, including Sleep In Heavenly Peace Frederick, the Frederick County Humane Society, the Linus Project, Friends of the Library, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Friends and Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund, as well as seasonal food drives.

Tona also volunteered at Frederick Health Hospital and New Life Seventh-day Adventist Church in Gaithersburg. She was the student member of the Frederick County Immigrant Affairs Commission from 2022 to 2023.

Tona, who now attends Emory University, chose to give her award

money to the Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP).

“I sincerely hope that (the money) does go to help even one or two people dealing with student homelessness in Frederick County,” she says. “I just hope it has a local impact.”

PRAGNA YALAMANCHILI A senior at Oakdale High School, Pragna Yalamanchili became interested in volunteering during her sophomore year. She joined the Environmental Club and worked on various waste-reduction efforts around the school, including compost bin monitoring and classroom recycling. Oakdale placed 10th in the nation this year in the Trex Plastic Film Recycling Challenge, collecting 3,302 pounds of soft plastic.

Yalamanchili is also a member of Interact Club, a high school branch of Rotary, where she organized two lithium battery recycling drives collecting 7,600 pounds of rechargeable

batteries. She also assisted with parking and raising donations for club projects while volunteering at Frederck’s Oktoberfest and is working on redecorating Oakdale’s teachers’ lounges. She has also volunteered with the Delaplaine Arts Center.

“I just think [volunteering] is one of the most rewarding things you can do with your time,” Yalamanchili says. She enjoys “the feeling of being able to make a difference and doing something important.”

With a passion for environmentalism, she gave her grant money to Lunch Out of Landfills, a Rotary initiative that works to start composting programs in schools. The initiative began in Frederick County in 2018 and aims to expand statewide. “I just really hope that that money can be used to buy composting bins and liquid bins so that schools that want to participate but may not have the support or the funds can do so,” she says. FM

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november events

Over the Mountain Studio Tour Nov. 11, 12 Jefferson County, W.V. A free, self-guided studio tour featuring nine studios showcasing 18 local artists. Each stop includes multiple artisans, live demonstrations, wares for sale, snacks and more. 10 a.m.−5 p.m. 304-725-0567. www.overthemountainstudiotour.com Mount Olivet Cemetery History & Mystery Tour Nov. 12, 26 Mount Olivet Cemetery, 515 S. Market St. Guests discover Frederick’s history as they navigate through the labyrinth of graves, crypts and monuments of one of Maryland’s largest cemeteries. Tours meet inside the main gate.

Reservations required. Private tours also available.

1:30 p.m. $. www.marylandghosttours.com

Peter Noone and Herman’s Hermits with Special Guest The Marcels Nov. 12 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Lead singer of The Herman’s Hermits and The Marcels revive their well-known, well-loved hits. 3 p.m. $.

301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

FAC After Hours: Bijou Film Screening Nov. 14, 21, 28 Frederick Arts Council Art Center, 5 E. 2nd St. A streamlined curation of films presented by Falling Squares. 7 p.m. 301-662-4190. www. frederickartscouncil.org

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Moby Dick Nov. 16 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Enjoy this classic film from 1956 on the big screen. Presented by Wonder Book & Video. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org FCC Jazz Ensemble II Nov. 16 Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike. FCC’s Jazz Ensemble II performs classic jazz standards and new favorites, under the direction of Jordan Clawson. 7:30 p.m. 301-846-2566. www.calendar.frederick.edu The Great Gatsby Musical Nov. 17–19 New Spire Stages, 15 W. Patrick St. A new work by The Landless Theatre Company, featuring jazz standards and a diverse ensemble of actor-musicians. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience Nov. 15 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. The McGuigan Brothers Band presents an interactive Beatles experience, performing music entirely selected by the audience. 7:30 p.m. $.

301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

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november events

november events

Annual ‘The House Is In The Bag’ FUNdraiser Nov. 18 Richland Golf Club, 50 Glenbrook Dr., Middletown. A fun-filled evening featuring both silent and live auctions of new and gently used purses, gift baskets and accessories. Proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Frederick and Faith House. 6 p.m.–9 p.m. $. 301-698-2449. www.thehouseisinthebag.com Art & Architecture Walking Tour Nov. 18 Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. Look at Frederick with new eyes as you explore some of the popular architectural styles, local art and history in this 90-minute guided tour. 10:30 a.m. $.

301-663-1188. www.frederickhistory.org Maryland Christmas Show Nov. 17−19, 24–26 Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St. Discover the joys of shopping under the big top tents and in seven buildings that house fine artisans, craftsmen and merchants. Find holiday presents for friends and family with a wide selection of fine art, pottery, furniture, jewelry, clothing, toys, wreaths, ornaments and more.

Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.−5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.−4 p.m. $. 301-845-0003. www.marylandchristmasshow.com

Valley Craft Network Annual Studio Tour Nov. 18, 19 Middletown and Pleasant Valley areas. In this 42nd annual self-guided tour, visit local studios showcasing fine arts and crafts, including pottery, ceramics, painting, fiber, wood, cider, mosaic, metal, cheese, jewelry and more. 10 a.m.−5 p.m. www.valleycraftnetwork.org

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When You Wish Upon a Star—A Jazz Tribute to 100 Years of Disney Nov. 19 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. An unforgettable musical journey that celebrates 100 years of Disney through jazz. 7:30 p.m. $.

301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org Santa Train Nov. 24–26 Walkersville Southern Railroad, 34 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville. Enjoy a scenic ride through the woods on this picturesque excursion.

Reservations recommended. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $.

301-898-0899. www.wsrr.org Christmas at Gaver Farm Nov. 24–Dec. 22 Gaver Tree Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. Cut your own Christmas tree, spend time with loved ones, enjoy bakery treats or visit the wreath shop at Gaver Farm this holiday season.

9 a.m.−5 p.m. daily. $. 301-865-3515. www.gaverfarm.com

Festival of Wreaths Nov. 24–Dec. 3 Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., Westminster. This 26th annual event features more than 100 unique theme wreaths that range from whimsical to wacky to wonderful. Wreaths are displayed at the Art Center and are sold through an online silent auction that benefits the Carroll County Arts Council. 10 a.m.−7 p.m. daily. 410-848-7272. www.carrollcountyartscouncil.org

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november events Candlelight Tours Nov. 24–26, 30, Dec. 1–3 The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, 339 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Revisit the past in a whole new way during this living history experience that features a stroll down illuminated walkways to encounter and see the historic homes of Mother Seton, each tastefully decorated for the season. Guided tours start every half hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. $. www.setonshrine.org/events Santa Trains Nov. 24–26, Dec. 3, 9, 10, 17 Walkersville Southern Railroad, 34 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville. Ride the train with Santa, take photos and enjoy the spirit of the season.

Reservations recommended. 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. $. 301-898-0899. www.wsrr.org Tuba Christmas Nov. 25 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. The popular tuba comrades return with a variety of Christmas hits, delighting audiences of all ages in an annual Weinberg Center holiday tradition.

Free with cash or canned food donation to benefit the Community Action Agency of Frederick City.

Noon. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org Girl Shy Nov. 25 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Enjoy this silent film from 1924 on the big screen, accompanied by the mighty Wurlitzer. Presented

by G. Frank Thomas Foundation. 3 p.m. $.

301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org My Father the Elf Nov. 25–Dec. 17 Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St. Lorrie’s world is turned upside down after she discovers that her dad is moonlighting as an elf at the North Pole. But when the ‘up to no good’ Kris Kringle kidnaps Santa Claus, it’s up to Lorrie and her dad to save the holidays. See website for show times. $.

301-694-4744. www.marylandensemble.org Jingle Jingle All the Way Nov. 25–Dec. 23 The Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive. In this year’s Way Off Broadway Christmas production, Santa Claus is holding auditions for a singing group to help bring back the Christmas spirit, but not everything goes according to plan as a mischievous elf gets involved.

See website for show times. $. 301-662-6600. www.wayoffbroadway.com

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A Chanticleer Christmas

Nov. 28 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Enjoy an evening with the Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble that blends virtuosity and tight harmony with a cappella perfection. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org FCC Handbell Ensemble: A Towering Tale of Handbell History Nov. 28 Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike. FCC’s Handbell Ensemble takes guests on a musical journey from handbells’ humble beginnings to the present time. 7:30 p.m. 301-846-2566. www. calendar.frederick.edu Peppa Pig’s Sing-Along Party Nov. 29 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Dance, clap, sing and join in the fun as Peppa and friends teach some of their favorite songs. Limited tickets are also available for a photo experience following the show. 6 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org Holiday Art Competition and Exhibit Nov. 29–Dec. 30 Delaplaine Visual Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Enjoy original artwork depicting the holidays in Downtown Frederick by local artists for this annual juried competition. A reception will be held on Nov. 29 at 5:30 p.m. to present an award to the competition winner. 301-600-2844. www.celebratefrederick.com Scents & Sweets Competition and Auction Nov. 30 Delaplaine Visual Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the holiday season at this competition and auction that features holiday themed gingerbread structures and floral arrangements designed by local professional and amateur designers. 5:30 p.m. 301-600-2844. www.celebratefrederick.com Sara Evans Christmas Show Nov. 30 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Multi-platinum entertainer Sara Evans puts her distinctive creative stamp on some of the most iconic songs in country and pop music, with some holiday favorites sprinkled in the mix. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

The Rise of 5G Tech Talk

BY JENI LUBBERT In a world that’s become increasingly dependent on connectivity, the introduction of 5G has been nothing short of a game-changer. The fifth generation of wireless technology is transforming the way we use our mobile devices, promising faster speeds, fewer delays and a whole new level of possibilities. So, what does this mean for your mobile experience?

SPEED LIKE NEVER BEFORE One of the most noticeable changes with 5G is the blazing fast speed it offers. Compared to its 4G predecessor, 5G is exponentially quicker.

Downloading movies in seconds, streaming in 4K without buffering and smooth online gaming experiences are now a reality. With 5G, you’ll be able to enjoy content without the frustration of lag.

ULTRA-LOW LATENCY Latency refers to the delay between sending a request and receiving a response. With 5G, latency is dramatically reduced, making your interactions with applications and online services nearly instantaneous. This is particularly exciting for gamers and professionals who rely on real-time communication and collaboration tools.

ENHANCED CONNECTIVITY The increased number of devices that can connect to a 5G network simultaneously makes it ideal for smart homes, autonomous vehicles and smart cities that will benefit from seamless communication between devices, making life more efficient and convenient.

REVOLUTIONIZING INDUSTRIES Healthcare will see improvements in telemedicine and remote monitoring, while education will benefit from enhanced virtual learning experiences. Expect innovative advancements in autonomous vehicles, augmented reality and virtual reality, as well.

IMPROVED COVERAGE As 5G networks continue to roll out, the coverage will become more widespread. This means you can enjoy the benefits of 5G far beyond major cities. More people can access fast, reliable internet on their mobile devices.

WHAT TO EXPECT While 5G is already making waves, it’s important to note that its full potential is still unfolding. As more devices are 5G-compatible, and as developers create new applications to harness its power, your mobile experience will continue to evolve. However, technology requires infrastructure investment from mobile carriers, so its availability may vary depending on your location.

Keep an eye on announcements from your carrier about 5G rollout plans in your area.

Jeni Lubbert is a Project Manager at 270net Technologies, a website design and digital marketing firm in Frederick.

Contact her at 301-663-6000, ext. 615, or visit www.270net.com.

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november events FCC Wind Ensemble Performance Dec. 1 Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike. FCC’s Wind Ensemble performs an engaging, free concert highlighting contemporary compositions, concert band favorites and traditional masterpieces, under the direction of Kimberly Hirschmann. 7:30 p.m.

301-846-2566. www.calendar.frederick.edu A Motown Christmas Dec. 1 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. A powerful family-oriented show combining Motown’s greatest hits with favorite holiday classics. 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org Inebriated Holiday Dec. 1–23 Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St. Laugh your way through the holidays with this original show featuring favorite holiday stories told on screen by actors imbibing in holiday cheer, while a team of actors acts out the antics live on stage. See website for show times. $. 3 01-694-4744. www.marylandensemble.org The Polar Express Dec. 2 Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Enjoy this classic film on the big screen. Presented

by Wonder Book & Video. 2 p.m. $.

301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org Traditional Village Christmas Dec. 2 Village of Catoctin Furnace, 12525 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont. European-style Christmas market complete with artisans, apple cider and baked goods, children’s activities, wreath decorating and a visit from Belsnickel. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

443-463-6437. www.catoctinfurnace.org/events Festive Christkindlmarket Dec. 2 Downtown Walkersville. Walkersville celebrates the holiday season with a parade, carolers, musicians, artisans, crafters, homemade food, sweet treats, family events and more. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. www.walkersvillechristkindlmarket.com Brunswick Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting Dec. 2 Downtown Brunswick, East Potomac St. to Square Corner Park. Enjoy the annual holiday parade hosted by the City of Brunswick, followed by a tree lighting. 5 p.m. www.brunswickmd.gov

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Christmas in the Valley Dec. 2 Downtown Middletown. Celebrate the holiday season at this annual event that includes caroling, the lighting of the town Christmas tree, story time with Mrs. Claus, music with Mr. Jon and Friends, photos with Frosty and a visit from Santa Claus, followed by Christmas music and treats at Zion Lutheran Church. 4 p.m. 301-371-6171. www.middletown.md.us Christmas in New Market

Dec. 2 Main St., New Market. Celebrate the season along Main Street with a Christmas Market, a parade and more. 2:30 p.m.–7 p.m. 301-865-5544. www.townofnewmarket.org Candlelight House Tour Dec. 2, 3 Downtown Frederick. This self-guided walking tour takes visitors inside private homes elaborately adorned with holiday décor throughout historic Frederick. Purchase tickets in advance. Saturday, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.; Sunday, noon–4 p.m. $.

301-600-2489. www.celebratefrederick.com/events Santa’s Farm Fest Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10 Green Meadows Farm, 10102 Fingerboard Road, Ijamsville. Get a picture with Santa and the Grinch, and enjoy a day on the farm with hands-on animal visits, holiday hay rides, food, fire pits and more. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $. 301-865-9203. www.greenmeadowsevents.com Santa Claus: The Musical Dec. 2–23 The Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive. In this family theatre holiday event, it’s Christmas Eve and Santa and Mrs. Claus have a big announcement. After 1,000 years of faithful service, they’ve decided to retire. See website for show times. $. 301-662-6600. www.wayoffbroadway.com FCC String Ensemble: Bach to the Future Dec. 3 Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike. Celebrate the season with FCC’s String Ensemble at this free concert. 3 p.m. 301-846-2566. www.calendar. frederick.edu FM

Rediscover Downtown Backyard Tourist

BY JAKE WYNN

You may think you know Downtown Frederick. After all, it is the historic center not only of the City of Frederick, but of all of Frederick County. The 50-block historic district has become known around the region (and increasingly around the nation and internationally) as a destination to visit for incredible local shopping, well-preserved architecture and a place to experience a vibrant slice of America.

Let’s take a look at what’s new and exciting in Frederick’s thriving center.

It’s all about the shopping in the historic district.

With 200 local and independent stores and businesses, there’s always a new treasure to find. Downtown Frederick has a proud independent business community, with entrepreneurs selling a wide array of goods. Behind the magic is the Downtown Frederick Partnership, Frederick’s Main Street organization.

The organization’s events—Alive@Five, First Saturday (including the popular Fire in Ice) and many others—have brought residents and visitors to Downtown Frederick in ever-increasing numbers.

Together, the business community and nonprofit partners have created a welcoming area that is the envy of Main Streets across the region and the nation.

Downtown Frederick also serves as the arts and cultural hub of Frederick County. From theater experiences at the Weinberg Center for the Arts, New Spires Stages, the MET and Sky Stage to a vast array of art galleries, you’ll find almost any genre of music or medium of art on display. You’ll find new history exhibitions at Heritage Frederick and a brand-new orientation film at the Frederick Visitor Center. The African American History, Heritage and Culture

Society runs monthly walking tours of the historic All Saints Street neighborhood and its Heritage Center is coming soon to East All Saints Street. Even with our region’s history, there’s always something new to discover.

And there’s always something new on the horizon. A new addition to the Carroll Creek Brewing District will shortly arrive. RAK Brewing will replace Smoketown Creekside, continuing the momentum for a former industrial area of the city that has seen a rebirth with the craft beer revolution. In 2024, visitors will find that they can stay in a hotel Downtown for the first time in decades when Visitation Hotel Frederick opens at the former Visitation Academy building between Church and 2nd streets. They’ll be staying in a historic 1846 structure that is being painstakingly restored and will ultimately include a restaurant and cocktail bar.

And all this is just a taste of what’s going on in Downtown Frederick. Something new and exciting is happening each and every day here. Join in on the fun and become part of the story by making a visit.

This is really just the start of a great day trip or weekend adventure in Downtown Frederick. Visit downtownfrederick.org or visitfrederick.org for more ideas to explore Downtown Frederick!

Jake Wynn is the marketing and communications manager at Visit Frederick, the designated destination marketing organization for Frederick County. Contact him at 301-600-4023 or jwynn@fredco-md. net. Learn more about Visit Frederick at visitfrederick.org.

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Edward Schley Delaplaine

T

✶

BY JOHN W. ASHBURY

THERE ARE FEW FREDERICKTONIANS WHO HAVE AS GREAT AN

reflections

IMPACT as did Edward Schley Delaplaine. He practiced law, was elected to public office and served as a prominent judge. Today, however, he is best remembered as the leading historian in Frederick County over the last 100 years.

He was born in Frederick on Oct. 6, 1893, the son of William T. and Fannie Birely Delaplaine, the youngest of their children. When but 16 months old his father died of pneumonia contracted while directing a food drive for Frederick’s poor during the harsh winter of 1895.

Edward likely attended South Street School before graduating from Boys High School in 1910 at the top of his class. Washington and Lee College was the next stop on his educational journey. He once again graduated at the top of his class and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. During his senior year he cut a full minute from the school record in the annual 5-mile cross-country race.

He enrolled in Washington and Lee’s law school, but transferred to the one at the University of Maryland. He graduated in 1915 and was admitted to the Maryland bar. One month after his 22nd birthday he was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates and served two terms.

His interest in Frederick’s history was likely sparked as a child, as his family dated back to John Thomas Schley, who built the first house in Frederick.

His first published “history” piece was Taney The Lawyer for the Maryland Historical Magazine, which derived from his research for Dr. Bernard Steiner, then the librarian of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Steiner is the author of Life of Roger Brooke Taney, published in 1922.

Historical research was a joy for Delaplaine and it continued throughout his life. In 1927 he wrote Life of Thomas Johnson, Maryland’s first governor, and followed 10 years later with a definitive biography of Francis Scott Key. His law practice flourished and he was admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States in 1932. Six years later he was appointed by Gov. Harry Nice as the chief judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit and associate justice of the Maryland Court of Appeals. With a change

in state law, he was elected to the Court of Appeals in 1942, serving until 1956.

He often repeated the facts of one decision, known today as “The Screwball Case.” The story is neighbors got into an argument and one called the other a “screwball.” A civil case ensued and a lower court awarded the plaintiff $3,000. It was appealed and Judge Delaplaine rendered the final decision, throwing out the award on the basis of Maryland law and the U.S. Constitution’s protection of free speech.

After he retired from the bench, he was able to devote most of his time to Frederick’s history. He often made presentations to local organizations, like The Lawrence Everhart Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (of which he was a charter member), the Daughters of the American Revolution and local civic groups like Rotary and Kiwanis.

He also had time to research and write countless articles for the newspaper his father founded in 1883. While dry and sometimes hard to follow, these pieces formed the bedrock of information for anyone interested in local history. However, he wasn’t the pompous, self-important, officious stuffed shirt many thought of him. He had a contagious and loud laugh and was an easy man to approach just for quiet conversation, particularly about Frederick’s illustrious history.

At age 80, he married Helen Michael Stickel, a local widow on July 20, 1973. She had assisted him over several years in collecting and filing his legal papers and historical research.

Judge Delaplaine died May 21, 1989, the day he was to receive an honorary degree from Mount St. Mary’s College. He was buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery. He was survived by his wife, two stepchildren and four stepgrandchildren, a niece, Frances Delaplaine Randall, and a nephew, George B. Delaplaine Jr. FM fredMAG 95

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Cornered ✶

BY JODY BRUMAGE

look back

ARCHIVIST, HERITAGE FREDERICK

A

AN UNKNOWN PHOTOGRAPHER STANDING ON THE ROOF OF CITIZENS NATIONAL BANK CAPTURED A FLURRY OF ACTIVITY as workers excavated the foundation for C. Thomas Kemp’s new department store on the Square Corner in the summer of 1909. Interestingly, Frederick’s crossroads reflected the modernization of Downtown Frederick in the early 20th century with new buildings being erected on all four corners between 1908 and 1924.

For Kemp’s building, workers demolished an early 19th-century building in April 1909 to clear the site for the new three-story department store.

The construction inhibited access to the neighboring second-story studio of photographer John F. Kreh, so a temporary wooden stairway, seen in the center of this photograph, was suspended over the construction site to reach Kreh’s business. Construction progressed through the summer and autumn, reaching completion by the end of the year.

In January 1910, Kemp welcomed the first customers into his modern department store in the heart of Frederick. The new location was a significant achievement for Kemp, who had entered the clothing business as a clerk in the store of G. Joseph Doll almost 40 years earlier. A decade after opening his Square Corner location, Kemp acquired the neighboring Rosenstock Building and further expanded his department store into one of the largest in the western part of Maryland.

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10/20/23 12:40 PM