Frederick Magazine - January 2025

MAKE ESTATE PLANNING PART OF YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION

Our team at the Law Office of Lena A. Clark would like to wish you a Happy New Year! We hope you had a wonderful end to 2024, and are gearing up for an even better 2025.

A new year is always a good time to reflect on your personal habits, behaviors, and circumstances, and set goals/ resolutions for you to accomplish over the next 12 months. Many of us focus on our physical health - we sign up for gym memberships, try the latest diet fad, or strive to make healthier lifestyle choices. Some of us look to improve our finances, set goals to travel more, or even buy that car you’ve been dreaming of owning.

While these are all exciting prospects, we encourage you to consider one additional resolution in 2025 that you can accomplish quickly and simply: setting up an Estate Plan!

What if you already have a Will? Chances are, it needs to be re There have been many substantial changes to Maryland’s Trusts and Estates law over the past year alone - it is very likely that your docu ments need updating, even if they have been completed recently. Planning for the future may not be as exciting as losing weight or saving up for a new car, but it is undeniably one of the most responsible and caring actions you can take for yourself and your loved ones. Making Estate Planning a part of your New Year’s resolution is a proactive step towards ensuring financial security and peace of mind.

Recent surveys show that the majority of New Year’s resolutions only last about 3 months - people tend to lose steam, revert back to their old habits, and eventually set the same goals the following January. Instead, why not accomplish something that takes less than a month, and provides peace of mind and protects your family in the event of your death or mental incapacity for years to come?

We can have you secured with solid Estate Planning documents in just a few weeks. If you decide to set up a Revocable Living Trust, your retitling can be accomplished before spring flowers blossom. What a great way to start your year!

What does a typical Estate Plan include?

● Advance Medical Directive;

● Financial Power of Attorney;

● Last Will and Testament; and, for many of our clients,

● Revocable Living Trust with instructions for retitling your assets to avoid Probate.

Take the first step to protect your money and loved ones by calling us at 301-696-0567 or self-schedule online at lenaclarklegal.com. We make Estate Planning & Probate easy!

Sign up for our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LOLACnewsletter

PUBLISHERS

Shawn Dewees / Joseph Silovich

Editor-in-Chief

Guy Fletcher

Assistant Editor

Nancy Luse

Graphic Designers

Alexandra Barr

Ian Sager

Contributing Writers

Contributing Photographers

Michael DeMattia

Mark Youngblood

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@aol.com

Subscriptions

Stephanie Dewees / subscriptions@fredmag.com

Events Calendar and Proofreader

Niki DeSanto / events@fredmag.com

Find It Inside

January Vol. XL, No. 1

RURAL MURALS

Typically associated with Downtown Frederick, public art—large murals, outdoor sculptures and other media—is making its mark throughout the county. One of the best locations for discovering the intrinsic value of public art is in downtown Thurmont, which is embracing the intangible value of new murals and sculptures.

BY ERIC LOONEY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK YOUNGBLOOD

FINDING FREDERICK 2025

A new year is the perfect time to discover some hidden gems in Frederick County, even those gems that aren’t so hidden. How about finding a museum you never thought about before? Or taking part in a local tradition that has always missed your radar? Take a look at some of the cool, interesting things you can do this year and beyond.

BY GUY FLETCHER AND NANCY LUSE

INNOVATE, COLLABORATE

The economic future of the county might be housed in 40,000 square feet of office and lab space on Ballenger Center Drive. There, scientists, businesspeople and others are developing breakthrough technologies and building new businesses amid an environment that resembles a Silicon Valley corporate campus.

BY GUY FLETCHER / PHOTOGRAPHY

BY MARK YOUNGBLOOD

This is 40 (or XL)

Guy Fletcher / Editor-In-Chief / gfletcher@fredmag.com

Raised with what I believe was an excellent public school education, I am nonetheless useless when it comes to most matters mathematical, even numerical. Ask my friends about my skills at even basic arithmetic and they can tell you all about me stumbling over addition or division.

I’m an editor, not an engineer.

Fortunately, in my profession mathematics is mostly an unnecessary skill. Besides assigning page numbers and fact-checking the occasional story that uses percentages (groan), there isn’t much about my job that requires math.

One of those rare times comes in preparing the January issue each year, when we change the “volume” number for the new year that will

encompass all 12 issues of the magazine that year. Since we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the magazine this year, you would think it is just a matter of naming this the 40th volume.

If it were only so easy.

One of my predecessors decided a long time ago that the best way to name the volume year for the magazine was to use fancy Roman numerals, which otherwise only ap-

pear during Super Bowls and in the fine print of movie credits. Roman numerals, it should be noted, were invented by the Romans, who were awesome with roads and aqueducts but could not anticipate the limitations of a 21st century editor.

Roman numerals are a little tricky because they start off super easy. The number 1 is I and 2 is II, but the whole system derails soon after. Let’s be honest, a format that has both IV and VI is just asking for trouble. And it gets even more complicated as you climb into the teens and beyond.

In investigating the correct Roman numeral for 40, I consulted a source known for its precision and accuracy—the internet. I quickly found my answer and even double- and triple-checked to ensure I was not going to look like a fool. That’s how we got to Volume XL.

Simple, right?

Now, let’s make this all just a little bit more confusing. Technically, Volume XL begins this July, on the actual anniversary date of the magazine. But I made the decision years ago to align the volume dates with the calendar … you know, to simplify.

Yeah, my head hurts a little, too.

One of the ways we are noting 40/ XL is looking back every month at past issues of Frederick Magazine Our first installment is this month on page 20, which revisits the January 2001 issue, so make sure to check that out.

The official anniversary edition in July will be a proper celebration of 40 years of Frederick Magazine We have some exciting content planned that you will definitely not want to miss.

So, welcome to Frederick Magazine’s 40 th , er XL, year, and have a happy New Year! FM

Thank you! Thank you!

Thank you!

On behalf of our team here at McCaskill Financial, the wonderful staff at WFMD Radio, the Salvation Army and all of the volunteers, we wanted to thank the Frederick community for another successful and amazing year of Christmas Cash for Kids. With all of your support, we were able to raise over $130,770.90 to provide the joy of Christmas to 1,788 children in Frederick County.

With everything going on in the world right now, and many individuals, families and businesses struggling, we were overwhelmed by the amount of support that all of you provided to the children and families of Frederick County. Each year we are truly amazed at how our community can come together for Christmas Cash for Kids, and we want you to know how much we truly appreciate all of your support and donations.

We also hope that you and your families had a wonderful Holiday Season, a very Merry Christmas and we wish you all a blessed New Year.

Scott and the McCaskill Financial Family

UNCOVERED

Spirited Artifact

By Amy L. Metzger Hunt / Curator, Heritage Frederick

Perhaps in the hopes of extending the holiday season—or because January can be cold, dark and bitter—this month has many connections to alcohol. From celebratory New Year’s Day to Prohibition Remembrance Day on Jan. 16, followed by National Bootlegger’s Day on the 17th, Hot Buttered Rum Day on the 19th, Beer Can Appreciation Day on the 24th and Irish Coffee Day on the 25th, the month offers plenty of celebrations of spirits, despite the recent movement to Dry January.

The state of Maryland, from the port of Baltimore to the hills in Cumberland, has been producing alcohol for more than two centuries.

Frederick County, now witnessing a resurgence in brewing and distilling, was historically flush with distilleries and moonshiners from

This glass decanter once contained “Old Horsey Maryland Rye.”

Catoctin Mountain in the northeast to the scenic hills of Burkittsville in the southwest. German ancestors were brewing their own beer and Maryland’s first governor, Frederick’s own Thomas Johnson, was distilling spirits.

The collections of Heritage Frederick are also flush with alcohol- and brewing-related historical objects. These include: a copper still owned by Johnson; beautiful hand-blown etched glasses used to serve Flip, a warm cocktail of beer, rum, sugar and egg whites; silver-plated champagne goblets used in the dining room of the Francis Scott Key Hotel; an empty bottle of Blue Ridge Golden Ale; and a copy of a drama in three acts titled Rum or the First Glass, which was performed in the early 20th century.

Recently, a rare and important artifact was added to this collection by Harry George, whose grandparents settled in the Burkittsville area. This beautiful, mold-blown glass decanter is one of the few unbroken survivors of its kind. Proudly etched in gilded letters is “Old Horsey Maryland Rye,” a specialty whiskey distilled by Needwood Distillery in Burkittsville, where high-end spirits were first produced by the uniquely named Outerbridge Horsey II in the 1850s. FM

The festively lit boats of Sailing Through the Winter Solstice offer a warm glow— at least in appearance—on a cold evening in Carroll Creek Park. FM

Photography By Michael DeMattia

The View from Above

Six years ago, photographer Michael DeMattia started taking photographs of Downtown Frederick from the skies above and somehow found something within.

DeMattia’s work is showcased in his new coffee table book, Downtown Frederick Maryland 21701, a collection of 160 aerial photographs he had taken with a drone camera over recent years. The book’s subtitle is The Seasons Within: A Photography Journey by Micheal DeMattia, noting the book’s division into four chapters, each representing a season of the year with 40 photos.

But the subtitle also says something about DeMattia himself, who used photography to help guide him through some personal and mental health struggles that affected him through the years. “I was going through my seasons, in a sense,” he says. “It was definitely a journey to get there.”

Regular readers of Frederick Magazine are already somewhat familiar with DeMattia, who has been providing pho-

tographs for the “Up Above” page since 2021, following the passing earlier that year of aerial photographer Mike Collins, who had been contributing to the magazine for two decades.

Interestingly, with its proximity to Frederick Municipal Airport, the City of Frederick has several restricted areas for drone flights. A Federal Aviation Administration map limits the ceiling for some neighborhoods at 200 or 400 feet, and some areas very close to the airport are zero. This explains why you will likely never see a drone photo of the Frederick Fairgrounds. DeMattia, who has an FAA drone license, must apply for waivers to photograph some places, such as near Frederick Health Hospital where helicopters periodically take off and land.

“It’s gotten more regulated over the years,” he says.

Nonetheless, he sees Frederick— with its history, architecture, open spaces and commerce—as the perfect subject to capture in photos.

“Something about this city … is extremely unique,” he says. “It’s not too big, it’s not too small. It’s just in that sweet spot.”

In fact, the variety of locations from which to shoot beautiful photos of the city had DeMattia building a library of thousands of images—so

many that it made it difficult to choose which would be included in the book.

“I had this big catalog of images through the years. … I didn’t realize how difficult the editing process would be,” he says.

In addition to Frederick Magazine , DeMattia also regularly posts his photos on various social media platforms. His book can be purchased at www. bit.ly/downtownfrederickbook.

Looking Back at 40 Years

Our first look at a former issue of Frederick Magazine takes us back exactly 20 years to the January 2004 issue of the magazine. The cover of that issue depicted Frederick’s famed skyline in a work titled “Winter Spires” by artist Harry Richardson.

But the main story that month was the annual “People to Watch,” then in its 10th year. In that era of the magazine, the annual “up-and-comers” feature was limited only to people 40 years old or younger. (We have since abandoned such ageism and now have no such restriction on “People to Watch.”) It’s also interesting to note that the 2004 “People to Watch” class had 10 people! That number has dropped greatly over the years and, by

comparison, our 2024 “People to Watch” included five people.

There were some familiar faces in that 2004 class, including Kara Norman, executive director of the Downtown Frederick Partnership, and Stacey Collins, bank executive and a familiar face in local philanthropic circles.

“I think it’s cliché to think I can profoundly impact someone’s life,” Collins said in the accompanying story. “But I can help someone in a little way—and that itself is meaningful.”

Norman spoke of the emerging appeal of Downtown Frederick at the dawn of a new century. One quote proved prophetic: “Downtown Frederick is poised for another renaissance that will usher in new residences, offices, stores and restaurants.”

PARK PLANNED FOR SENIORS

Most senior citizens are familiar with taking their children, and later their grandchildren, to public parks, realizing the benefits of engaging in the outdoors through exercise and simply feeling the sun on their faces. Parks, they may have realized, also afford the opportunity for socializing.

All the positive facets seen for youngsters are now being bestowed on seniors themselves through Asbury SeniorScapes at Monocacy Village Park, a public park space off East Street designed specifically to meet the unique needs of older adults.

This pioneering park’s design features walking paths, equipment for cardiovascular health, stairs and ramps for improved mobility, as well as balance beams, steppingstones and stability exercises to enhance balance and prevent falls.

The project is the brainchild of Sue Paul, senior director of well-being and brain health for Asbury, a not-for-profit system of continuing care retirement communities. SeniorScapes reflects her passion for senior wellness and draws on her extensive experience as an occupational therapist and commitment to healthy aging and brain function. Paul hopes to make senior- and dementia-friendly parks part of society’s fabric.

“For older adults, having access to social support and opportunities

for interaction in park settings is essential for cognitive health and overall well-being,” says Paul.

The park received over $500,000 in funding through a grant from the Delaplaine Foundation, an AARP Community Challenge Grant and a Community Development Block Grant from the City of Frederick. The park’s name reflects seed money from Asbury Communities and the fundraising support and guidance of Asbury Communities’ philanthropic arm, The Asbury Foundation. Asbury Communities is among the nation’s 20 largest not-for-profit systems of continuing care retirement communities with award-winning senior wellness.

“Asbury SeniorScapes at Monocacy Village will provide exercise equipment for seniors that enhances quality of life by promoting healthy habits in accessible public spaces,” says Mayor Michael C. O’Connor. “By creating environments that encourage physical activity, we encourage our seniors to stay active, engaged and connected with their community.”

Dear Dina

DEAR DINA: I come from a very large family. We all have super busy schedules, so the sharing of gifts back and forth goes well into the new year. I have a few presents I received last year that are still in the original packaging. They are in near perfect condition. I am tight on money. Is it permissible to regift them to someone else?

SIGNED, THRIFTY BUT NOT CHEAP FROM THURMONT

DEAR THRIFTY:

It’s perfectly acceptable to bless someone on your list with a gift that’s more suitable for them as opposed to you. As a matter of fact, etiquette experts cheer this practice on as a way to keep unused items out of landfills. Additional advice: Be thoughtful. Make certain the gift will be an excellent choice for the recipient and that it’s not just crossing the person off your list. Giving is receiving!

Dear Dina is written by Dina Carole, host of the Morning Show on Key 103 (WAFY-FM). You can ask her questions anonymously at any time by going to key103radio.com and clicking on the “Features” tab. Listen to answers weekday mornings at 7:45 and 9:45.

pix

TECHIE AWARDS

The second annual Techie Awards brought together industry leaders, innovators and tech enthusiasts. The awards, organized by the nonprofit TechFrederick, were designed to honor the invaluable contri -

KRIS KRINGLE PROCESSION

It was once again a jolly good time in the streets of Downtown Frederick as the Kris Kringle Procession— one of the highlights of the holiday season— winded its way from South Carroll Street to Baker Park to a medley of music, dance and the cheers from children of all ages. The parade concluded with the traditional ceremony to light the City Tree.

butions of individuals and organizations who drive innovation and excellence in Frederick’s tech industry. This year’s ceremony, which drew more than 130 attendees, celebrated eight award winners. www.techfrederick.org

Photos courtesy Qionna Irby

SHIP MILESTONE

The Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP) of Frederick County celebrated 10 years of service to local schoolchildren in need of housing. SHIP provides critical resources and urgent services to hundreds of county youth experiencing homelessness each year. www.shipfrederick.com

THE BIG FLOAT

Quickly becoming the biggest local attraction during the holiday season (and beyond), the Sailing Through the Winter Solstice regatta of lighted boats once again found port in Carroll Creek. The 27 boats, sponsored and built by local businesses and clubs, raise money for various nonprofit organizations through votes for the favorites. The boats are scheduled to remain in the creek until March 8. www.coloronthecreek.com/sttws

then

now

SOUTH MARKET STREET

A new year is the perfect time to rediscover yourself … and perhaps your hometown. While you pledge to lose weight or quit binging Netflix for hours at a time—both noble pursuits, by the way—how about making a resolution to see more of Frederick County this year, perhaps some places you never considered before?

We put together a list of fun, easy and possibly overlooked things to do for 2025. Some of these can be tackled right away, but others might be better suited for the warmer months. You might want to do all of these, some of these or none of these. It’s entirely up to you. Whatever the case, we hope this list will at least spark your curiosity.

SLIDE INTO FUN

Mount Tabor Park in Rocky Ridge has the requisite swings, monkey bars and a seesaw, but mostly folks come for the 40-foot-tall wooden slide that was built by a group of local volunteers more than 70 years ago.

The park is half an hour north of Frederick, surrounded by houses, fields, a volunteer fire house and little else, making it a deliberate destination, one you won’t regret.

The slide is several feet wide and has three speed bumps to make the ride more thrilling. It’s reminiscent of the floor in a bowling alley and the boards are worn smoothly by the countless backsides that have scooted down the incline. Bring along a towel or pillowcase, or you can use the provided burlap sacks and carpet squares to increase your speed. A sign tells visitors to slide in the seated position only.

Perhaps the best part, aside from the ride itself, is that it’s free of charge.

LIVING FOR LIVE MUSIC

Frederick County has long prided itself in its arts and entertainment scene and a big part of that has been live music, whether it be a local band playing at one of the breweries or regionally known performers taking to the Baker Park Bandshell as part of the Summer Concert Series.

One of the newest venues in the live music scene in the area is Bentztown, which opened last year billing itself as “Frederick’s first Music City-inspired restaurant

TIPS

and bar.” As such, the stage at Bentztown has been filled with a variety of musicians every week, including a revival of bluegrass jam session nights, a tradition that stretches back to the venue’s earlier days as The Blue Side Tavern.

Bluegrass has deep roots in Frederick’s culture, influenced by the region’s proximity to Appalachian folk traditions. The jam sessions are hosted by local musicians Jason Hannan and Matthew Geiger. www. bentztown.com

FOOD FUN

Farmers markets have been on the Frederick County scene for a number of years, but if you still haven’t availed yourself to the plump, juicy peaches and tomatoes, the tender green beans or the local wine and kombucha, what are you waiting for?

The markets are more fun than a grocery store; several of them have live music and all of them have vendors that will have you on a first name basis with them as you ask about unusual produce and how to fix them. This is food as local as you can get without putting out your own garden.

The markets, 13 of them at last count, also sell plants and fresh-cut flowers, hot sauce, soap made from goat’s milk, artwork, baked goods and dog treats. Although markets run only during the growing season, Myersville has an indoor market from November through the beginning of April. www.homegrownfrederick.com

HAVING A BALL IN WALKERSVILLE

During the 20th century, many bowling alleys popped up throughout Frederick County, nearly all of them offering the smaller, duckpin version of the sport. All those lanes are gone, except one: Walkersville Bowling Center at 44 W. Pennsylvania Ave.

Using smaller pins and smaller balls without finger holes, duckpins offer more challenge and strategy than regular bowling. No “perfect” 300 game has ever been recorded in duckpins.

There are only about 35 duckpin bowling alleys left in the United States, about half of which are in Maryland and most of those are in the Baltimore area. Walkersville is the only one left in Frederick County, with Mount Airy Bowling Lanes offering duckpins just across the Carroll County line.

It’s an unfortunate decline for a fun, challenging game that is family friendly (even small children can roll a duckpin ball) and economically priced. Head out to Walkersville for open bowling, leagues, tournament and youth programs. You can even have a birthday party or company event there. www.walkersvillebowling.com

MARYLAND’S ROOM

Whether you’re a student working on a history assignment, someone searching for your family’s genealogy or a newcomer to the area curious about where you’ve landed, the Maryland Room on the second floor of the C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St., is well worth a visit.

The collection is continually receiving new materials that can be reviewed in this corner of the library, along with existing newspaper archives and countless other sources of information. The Maryland Room is also a source of recorded interviews with local military veterans talking about experiences encompassing World War II through more modern conflicts.

A word of advice: the room is purposely kept cool to preserve materials, so bring a sweater. Then again you might not need it because of the warmth of the friendly staff of manager Mary Mannix and librarian Derek Gee. www.fcpl.org

A GARDEN OF EDEN

Evangelical Lutheran Church, 31 E. Church St., is known for many things, including being the first Lutheran Church in Maryland, having a part in the American Sunday School movement (Francis Scott Key was a teacher here) and serving as one of the city’s hospital sites for wounded soldiers during the Civil War’s Battle of Antietam.

Today, the church continues to offer community outreach and holds three worship services each weekend. But inside the sanctuary isn’t the only place to seek spiritual solace. ELC offers an oasis in the middle of a bustling Downtown with an expansive garden that changes with the season, featuring spring’s first arrivals of Lenten Rose, tulips and daffodils, through summer’s roses and zinnias to fall’s final blooms. The winter garden also contains its own beauty, especially covered in snow. Benches placed around the property are regularly used by those stopping in their travels to appreciate nature’s beauty, resting for a spell and perhaps issuing a prayer. You may even catch one of the church’s Garden Angels tending to creation. www.twinspires.org

INTERNATIONAL FLAVOR

Think local dining and your mind probably wanders to one of the many restaurants in Downtown Frederick, and for good reason since the area has a well-earned reputation for fine cuisine of many different styles.

But if you want to take a trip around the planet, so to speak, head out to the Golden Mile, which offers international fare that can have your taste buds traveling from continent to continent without even leaving the city.

Longtime Frederick diners are familiar with the small chain Sardi’s Pollo A La Brasa, famous for its charbroiled (and affordable) Peruvian chicken, tucked into a tiny strip shopping center on McCain Drive. That’s just the jumping off point to eateries along West Patrick Street that journey from sub-Saharan to Middle Eastern to Southeast Asian to Central American.

And if you like to experiment with different tastes in your own kitchen, check out the various internation markets found along the Golden Mile, including Nelia African Market, H-Mart, Asian Supermarket, Halal Market and others. www.goldenmilealliance.org/listings/restaurants-food

TRICKS

COMPLETING HISTORY

The ruins and interpretive displays at Catoctin Furnace tell the story about the facility that began manufacturing iron near Thurmont in 1776. Visitors can walk up to the hulking stone remains of a former blast stack and just imagine it producing munitions for the Revolutionary War. But often missing in the narrative were the stories of the enslaved African Americans and European immigrants who worked there.

That is no longer the case. In the 1970s, road construction in the areas resulted in the excavation of 35 graves at Catoctin Furnace that were not included in written records. Today, Catoctin Furnace’s Museum of the Ironworker, housed in the former stone dwelling of a worker, includes exhibits such as the facial reconstructions of two enslaved workers.

The museum is open Saturdays and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The museum will be closed this month for painting and cleaning but will reopen in February. www. catoctinfurnace.org/ironworker

GETTING PIGGY WITH IT

Lovers of improvisational comedy who think they need to visit New York City or Washington, D.C., to see a live show might be surprised to learn that there is a side-splitting local option with the weekly Comedy Night program at the Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 32 W. Patrick St.

Performers include local groups such as Key City Improv, That’s What She Said, Oh Crit! and the Comedy Pigs, the region’s longest-running improv troupe. The Comedy Pigs, formed in 1993, fill their shows with a series of short-form improv games; no two performance are ever the same.

Comedy Night performances take place every Friday and some Saturdays from October to June. www.marylandensemble.org/comedynight

AIRPORT FOOD TO LOVE

When you think of airport food, what generally comes to mind is the boring chain restaurant variety that’s insanely pricey. That’s not the case at Frederick Municipal Airport, 310 Aviation Way, where folks line up on weekends at the Airways Inn for reasonably priced breakfasts that are freshly prepared and taste like something from your mom’s kitchen. Lunches and dinners are equally popular.

Breakfast starts at 7:30 a.m. with a bevy of egg selections, home fries, pancakes and waffles, with specialties such as eggs benedict and a New York sirloin to pair with eggs over easy. This is also a source for scapple enthusiasts. Lunch features soups, salads and sandwiches and dinner has all that, plus platters of steak, seafood, pork chops and pasta.

As good as the food and friendly service, is the location. Perched on the edge of the airport tarmac, you have an opportunity to watch planes take off and land as well as browse the walls for all sorts of memorabilia about the world of flying. www.airwaysinnoffrederick.com

DOWNTOWN PARKING

One of the most common—and misplaced—complaints about Downtown Frederick is that it is difficult to find parking. Except for a couple heavily attended annual events, there is almost always street and deck parking available.

But if you don’t like dealing with the parking meter app or snaking your way through the popular Carroll Creek, Church Street or Court Street garages past filled spaces, try instead the typically underused West Patrick Street or East All Saints garages, both just a block away from the heart of Downtown. If you don’t mind walking a little farther, the county office building lot between Carroll Creek and Sagner Avenue is available after hours (and free) and perfect for visiting Downtown’s “beer district.”

Those in the know can also attest to a few “secret” parking spots Downtown, tucked behind alleys and buildings and almost always available. We’d tell you where they are, but they wouldn’t stay secret very long, right?

SPEAKER SERIES SHINES

What if someone told you that Frederick has hosted the likes of Levar Burton, Monica Lewinsky, Rick Steves, Terry Crews, Temple Grandin and Henry Winkler—all on the same stage?

They would be describing the Frederick Speakers Series, which each year brings a variety of world-class speakers from entertainment, literature, politics, science and more to the Weinberg Center for the Arts.

In addition to hearing these speakers from their seats in the theater, the program also allows attendees to purchase meet-and-greet tickets for a chance to see the speaker and take photos. Proceeds from the meet-

and-greet receptions benefit children’s programming at Frederick County Public Libraries.

Speakers this year include renowned ocean explorer Dr. Robert Ballard, civil rights icon Ruby Bridges, award-winning podcaster Sarah Koenig and bestselling author Celeste Ng. www.weinbergcenter.org/frederick-speaker-series

VISITING THE CENTER

Maybe the Frederick Visitor Center should use the tagline, “Not just for visitors, anymore.”

Early this year, the South East Street building will be installing several updates, the first major upgrades since the center opened in 2011. These include a new mural featuring a map of Frederick County and Downtown Frederick by local artist Matt Long.

There will also be new exhibits highlighting visitor experiences in Frederick County, including new photography and displays encouraging residents and visitors to explore the history, culture and landscape of the region. Previously, a new orientation film

GEMS

debuted in September 2023.

The visitor center welcomes about 20,000 visitors and residents annually. It is a hub for information about local events and where Downtown Frederick Gift Cards can be purchased. www.visitfrederick.org/ plan-your-visit/visitor-center

A DIFFERENT DOG WALK

The fun in taking the pooch for a walk doesn’t have to be limited to the pooch. There is no reason why a good dog walk cannot be enjoyable for the owner, as well. Why not take in some of the county’s trails, walks, and sights that you might have overlooked before?

How about Catoctin Creek Park and Nature Center? Nudged against the tributary for which it is named, the park offers several trails that will have you and Fido exploring the flora and fauna. On a hot day, the good boy (or girl) can even dip his paws in the creek. For more information, go to www.recreater.com/941/Trails.

Another location that doesn’t get enough attention for dog walking is Monocacy National Battlefield. The Civil War site straddling Md. 355 has miles of trails and open areas that can wear out the legs of even the friskiest pup. Bonus: You get some history with your walk. For more information, go to www.nps.gov/mono.

Just remember to keep your dog on a leash and don’t forget to curb your pet. FM

Rural Murals

Public Art is Growing Throughout County

By Eric Looney / Photography by Mark Youngblood

THURMONT—How do you define what value art brings to a community? The financial investment required to create or purchase art often doesn’t produce a tangible return on investment. But Vickie Grinder, Thurmont’s economic development manager, believes that perspective misses the point.

“Everyone always looks at internal investment and the bottom line,” she says, “But you know what? I am heavy on SORI—Social Return On Investment— and you can’t put a number to that, it’s intangible, but it adds something to our life.”

Grinder has spent recent years bringing SORI to town through the “Inspire Thurmont” public art campaign, with the tagline “Be Kind.” Recently, this effort has been paying off, as the town has unveiled two murals along Main Street as part of the Murals on Main project.

Gateway to the Mountains, by Bob Cohen, is mounted on a 12-by-24-foot mesh screen and is impossible to miss. The vibrant landscape, a kaleidoscope of yellows, greens and blues, depicts the area’s natural beauty of rivers and rolling forest hills.

Just down the street, on the historic electrical trolley building, local artist Yemi painted a series of murals with various slices of Thurmont life, preserved in his dynamic, expressive style. “Thurmont really is one of the most beautiful places,” Yemi says. “We have mountains, we have waterfalls, we have a beach, we

“I am heavy on SORI—Social Return On Investment—and you can’t put a number to that, it’s intangible, but it adds something to our life,” says Vickie Grinder (above, right), economic development manager for the Town of Thurmont.

we have waterfalls, we have a beach, we have so many great places to hike, bike, recreate, relax, all those things.”

Another local artist, Rebecca Pearl, who teaches a weekly class at her gallery in downtown Thurmont, loves to paint history. “I believe that the past is with us all the time,” she says. “I think that gets people to talk to one another.” That sense of connection is a major drive for her. “I think that having art on the walls visibly helps. You know, there’s a lot of young people who are disturbed or have depression or something going on. It sort of lifts you up to see color.”

One of Pearl’s students, Dr. Myra Derbyshire, who recently retired from the National Institutes of Health, sees art as a potential remedy to loneliness. “It’s part of the solution, right? To bridge the gap. The murals are very reflective of what it means to be someone in this community. So, you’re impacted by the history, you’re impacted by the mountains, and by the people. Those sculptures and art help with that spirit of connection.”

Louise Kennelly, executive director of the Frederick Arts Council, is hoping to bridge a more physical gap with the pub-

lic art master plan called “Connections.” “The idea that each town would have a mural based on its natural landscape is something that appeals to us.” She also speaks of “gateway pieces,” sculptures placed in prominent town entryways that serve both to welcome residents and visitors, and to help Frederick County communities feel further connected.

One such sculpture is coming soon to Thurmont, also courtesy of Yemi. Grinder says the piece will unveil in April at Mechanicstown Square Park. In addition, this year the city will apply for an Arts and Entertainment Designation with the state of Maryland. If approved, this will provide additional grant money for the projects, the major source of their funding, and ideally help attract more artists to the area.

When asked about the value of public art, Yemi answers, “The artwork that you choose to put on your walls transforms the house into a home, right? And the same exact thing happens with public art. That public art is a way to transform the space, to tell a story, to make people come back and see. Art and tourism are linked unbreakably.”

Local artist Yemi transformed the historic electrical trolley building into a series of murals paying tribute to Thurmont, including portraits of former presidents of the United States who took advantage of the Camp David retreat.

The murals are very reflective of what it means to be someone in this community. “ ”

—Dr. Myra Derbyshire

artsy SPOTLIGHT

Arts Organizations Receive Grants

The Frederick Arts Council recently awarded Community Arts Development grants to 15 arts organizations and programs throughout Frederick County, allowing high-quality arts opportunities to as many residents as possible, according to the council.

Recipients include Calvary United Methodist Church Concert Series, Choral Arts Society of Frederick, Emmitsburg Community Chorus, Endangered Species Theatre Project, Frederick Book Arts Center, Frederick Regional Youth Orchestra, Maryland Ensemble Theatre, Other Voices Theatre, Spires Brass Band, Delaplaine Visual Arts Center, Frederick Children’s Chorus, Frederick Chorale, Global Z Recording Project, Transformative Arts Project and Weinberg Center for the Arts.

Supported by the Maryland State Arts Council, local grant applications were evaluated by a committee that included representatives from the Frederick Arts Council staff and board as well as the local creative community. Serving as committee chair was arts advocate Maura Parrott. www.frederickartscouncil.org

Kinetic Sculptures Draw Attention

Frederick, known for its rich history and small-town feel, has become an unexpected hotspot for contemporary art, including the Carroll Creek Kinetic Art Promenade, a collection of sculptures that add an interactive dimension to Downtown.

Public art projects like the kinetic sculptures invite residents and visitors of all ages to experience art in a natural, open setting. There’s no need for a ticket or a museum visit; the sculptures are free and open for anyone to enjoy at their own pace along Carroll Creek. Currently, there are eight sculptures in the creek. Each is displayed for three years before being rotated out for a new piece, creating an ever-changing art experience. Some of the sculptures have been relocated to the Frederick Health Village campus, where they have formed a permanent walking pathway for staff and local residents.

The latest pieces added to the collection are: “Agriculture,” created by Thomas Sterner and sponsored by Dianne and Clay Martz; “In Spire,” by Erin Aylor, sponsored by Ann and Ric Adams; and “Where Eagles Soar,” by Tim Beachley, sponsored by Greg Light.

The installation of kinetic sculptures on Carroll Creek is part of a broader effort to continue to infuse the city with creative energy. Through the integration of these sculptures, Frederick has fostered a new kind of cultural destination—one that celebrates not just artistic creativity but the potential for art to be in motion.

Art Association Exhibit

The annual Frederick County Art Association exhibit will be held through Jan. 26 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. featuring members’ artworks in a variety of media, including paintings, photography, mixed media, drawings, collages, ceramics and sculpture. FCAA’s approximately 100 members range from casual painters to full-time professionals. Vote for your favorite piece at the front desk. www.delaplaine.org

TALKING HISTORY

Jennie Russell

When first-time visitors to Frederick take in the view of Schifferstadt—the 18th-century home and architectural landmark preserved by the Frederick County Landmarks Foundation—they know they’ve landed in a historic city. Landmarks President Jennie Russell explains the role of the organization and its accomplishments over time.

Scott: People strongly connect the Frederick County Landmarks Foundation to its historic plaques program and Schifferstadt, but the organization does much more.

Jennie: Basically, we promote historic preservation and work in a variety of ways to increase knowledge and appreciation of historic sites in our county. We also own three historic properties that we work to preserve: Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, the Beatty-Cramer House in Mount Pleasant and Zion Church and Cemetery in Urbana. Each of the properties has its own story to tell.

Scott: Tell us about Schifferstadt Architectural Museum.

Jennie: Perhaps most locals know of Landmarks because of Schifferstadt, which was the first property purchased by the organization shortly after its founding in 1973. Built in 1758 by the Brunner family, Schifferstadt was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2016, only the second in Frederick. It was cited as being nationally significant for architecture and an excellent example of a German-Georgian house built during the Colonial period. Today, Schifferstadt sits in the middle of what was once four adjoining Brunner family properties and houses the office of Frederick County Landmarks and a gift shop in its 19th-century brick addition.

By Scott Grove

Located off the Rosemont Avenue exit of U.S. 15, Schifferstadt is the only one of our properties open to the public on a regular basis. In 2024, we greeted more than 1,000 visitors for regular museum tours, plus special tours for students and senior centers. It is open Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. from April through mid-December.

Scott: What about the two other properties that you mentioned?

Jennie: The Beatty-Cramer House is one of the most architecturally unique and oldest-known standing buildings in Frederick County. The main building is a combination of the circa-1748 Beatty portion of the house, the circa-1855 Cramer addition and later renovations. In addition, the site has two outbuildings: an 18th-century springhouse and a 19th-century smokehouse. Thanks to a Frederick County Rural Historic Preservation Grant, restoration of the west porch of the house is currently under way and we continue to pursue funding for other improvements. Visits to the Beatty-Cramer House may be arranged on request.

The historic Zion Church and Cemetery, consecrated in 1802 as an Episcopal Church, was deeded to Landmarks in 2005 after restoration by the Zion Church Preservation Committee and is open for special events, including weddings, funerals and lectures. In 2024, Zion was open for four special lectures by a variety of speakers from such organizations as Rose Hill Manor, Walkersville Historical Society, Friends of Mount Olivet and Monocacy National Battlefield.

Scott: Can you explain the plaques program and why it is important?

Jennie: The Landmarks plaque program is another way to encourage

historic preservation and recognize good stewardship by our local community. Our Plaque Committee awards plaques to property owners of county buildings and structures that are more than 100 years of age, possess historical and/or architectural significance, and retain physical integrity. Since we started the program, Landmarks has awarded 450 plaques.

Scott: What are the most impactful ways that the Landmarks Foundation educates the public?

Jennie: We have two annual fundraisers that are intended to increase knowledge and appreciation of preservation activities. The annual Barnstormers Tour and Plein Air Paint Out showcases Frederick County’s agricultural heritage and the architecture and importance of historic barns in a fun, educational way. Eight barns are selected each year in a different area of Frederick County. Visitors go from barn to barn and learn about the history and architecture of each property from trained docents.

And Oktoberfest at Schifferstadt, which has been our most successful fundraiser for 35 years, has helped us to share the message of the importance of preservation and history to thousands of attendees over the years as they visit the museum, watch historic interpretations and demonstrations, and have a wonderful time in the process.

Scott: How did you develop an interest in Landmarks and Frederick County history?

Jennie: Following retirement from my Montgomery County-based job, I was a volunteer research assistant at Heritage Frederick. I also began volunteering with Landmarks as a docent at Schifferstadt. I eventually became co-manager of the museum with

Frederick preservationist Bernie Callan, was elected to the board of directors and elected president of the board in 2021. I learned that I am a descendant of the original owners—the Brunner family from Schifferstadt, Germany.

Scott: In what capacities can the public become more involved with Landmarks?

Jennie: What many people don’t know about Landmarks is that we are not part of Frederick County government. Although Frederick County is part of

our name, we are a private nonprofit foundation and receive no state or local funding. We are all volunteer—the property managers, museum managers, docents, etc. Our two fundraisers are completely dependent on volunteers. We are very thankful to have so many dedicated volunteers to support our activities. Anyone interested in volunteering for Landmarks can write to me at volunteer@ fredericklandmarks.org.

Jennie Russell is a Frederick native whose ancestors settled here in the 1700s. The self-described “history nerd” is also a member of many other local historical societies. Scott Grove is the owner of Grove Public Relations, LLC., a marketing and advertising firm. His work also includes interpretive planning and exhibit design for museums and historic sites. For more info, visit www.scottrgrove.com.

I learned that I am a descendant of the original owners— the Brunner family from Schifferstadt, Germany. “ ”

Jennie Russell

Railfanning The Enduring

Pastime of Spotting and Photographing Trains

BRUNSWICK—It’s a mild Sunday afternoon and Jim Mullison, his son William and William’s friend Daniel Jones, both 16, drive from their homes in the Northern Virginia suburbs to the rail yard here. Lugging camera equipment, a tripod and binoculars, they trek near the tracks, hoping to capture photos and videos of the freight trains rolling past.

“We look for special engines and paint schemes,” Mullison says as William and Daniel ready the cameras for the next train.

The trio are railfanning, a kind of American speak for trainspotting, the British term for the hobby of tracking trains and their numbers as they crisscross the country. (Don’t confuse the terminology with the 1996 movie Trainspotting, which is about drug culture in blue collar Scotland, not railfanning.)

The locomotives of CSX Transportation, a major freight rail traversing the Eastern United States, are ubiquitous along tracks traveling through Point of Rocks and Brunswick. Occasionally, trains from Union Pacific, the major Western freight line, come chugging past. Other rare sightings are CN, or Canadian National Railway, and BNSF Railway, formed in 1995 with the merger of Burlington Northern and the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway.

“Those are something different to see, different paint schemes,” Mullison says. “Every railroad line paints their engines in a different way.” There are special heritage engines that reflect the history of the various train lines that now make up CSX. Those include the old B&O, Chessie, Norfolk and Western, Seaboard and

Railfanning is the hobby of capturing photos and videos of freight trains rolling past. Train enthusiast Jim Mullison says, “We look for special engines and paint schemes.”

By Karen Gardner

Photo courtesy Daniel Jones

Photo courtesy Daniel Jones

Photo courtesy William Mullison

numerous short rail lines, like the Western Maryland Railway that once traversed Frederick County.

One of those is the 1827, which combines CSX’s colors with the B&O’s iconic U.S. Capitol dome logo. Another heritage engine pays homage to the Chessie cat, a popular 1970s symbol. “There are all these combinations of railroad logos that come together,” he says.

Mullison got started watching trains as a kid accompanying his dad. Now William and Daniel go with him several times a month to railroad hotspots around the Mid-Atlantic.

“I just find trains cool,” Daniel says. “There’s always new stuff to see.”

“It’s fun to travel around the country to see them,” William added. “All of this will be gone eventually.” Pointing to one of the older engines as it passes through Brunswick, he says, “These engines are reaching the end of their lives.” Most engines are retired after about 50 years of service.

They check in with an online railroad scanner popular with railfans to give them a heads-up when a special engine is headed their way. Daniel and William are setting up their equipment to capture No. 2198, the next train to roll through Brunswick that day.

“The thing about railroads is they’ll carry anything,” Daniel says. Coal, grain, natural gas, autos, hazardous materials. Truck trailers with goods from Amazon will hitch a ride on freight tracks along with containers full of just about anything else. And while freight cars may bear familiar company logos or artistically painted graffiti, it’s the engines and older passenger railcars that are the real draw.

“I’ve been railfanning since 2018,” says Anthony Vo, a 19-year-old college student from Aspen Hill who photographs and videos trains throughout the Mid-Atlantic, including the Walkersville Southern Railroad during its excursion rides.

He recently spotted an older Amtrak Capitol Limited 1950s sleeper car pass through the Rockville station. Someday he hopes to record the CSX Santa Train, which delivers holiday gifts through West Virginia and Kentucky each November. “Railfans are always looking for a new vantage point for [these special trains],” he says. “You only have one chance to take these shots.”

Train spotters can check in with an online railroad scanner popular with railfans to give them a heads-up when a special engine is coming their way.

I just find trains cool, There’s always new stuff to see. “ ”

—Daniel Jones FM

Daniel Jones on Instagram at daniel_the_railfan

William Mullison on Instagram at train_nerd611

Anthony Vo on Instagram at railfannervo_photography

Photo courtesy William Mullison

TRENDING

stylin’

People just want to be cozy. “ ”

—Cass Smith

SWEATER WEATHER

Cass Smith, manager of Lou Lou Boutique, 29 N. Market St., recalls the unseasonably warm fall weather and how, as soon as the temperature dropped, “everyone was looking for sweaters.”

The wardrobe staple is great for layering with shirts and blouses since you also never know how the indoor heat is geared, whether in homes or at work—a predictable battleground in the fight over the thermostat. Many folks have a designated office sweater slung over the back of their chairs all year long, including during summer when the air conditioning blasts full tilt.

Sweaters have long been a part of the wardrobes of workers, such as fishermen needing a thick-wool, cable-stitched version to ward off the wind and waves from the sea. But sweaters also have their sexy side. In the 1940s and 1950s, movie stars such as Lana Turner, Jane Mansfield and Jane Rusell earned the “sweater girl” moniker when they wore their soft, luxurious cashmere and lambswool in pretty pastels and as form-fitting as they could get away with.

Sweaters are also associated with sports—check out tennis sweaters with their bands of color around the neck and cuffs, or the old high school days of lettermen sweaters that boys passed along to their steadies. Sweaters aren’t just an American fashion, but they may be called something else, such as in Britain where they’re known as “jumpers.” Whatever. These are the days when we need help staying cozy.

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK HISTORIC

MARYLAND

tell us TRENDING

Melissa Lentz

Executive Director, Women Inspiring, Supporting and Helping (WISH)

What is the mission of WISH?

We are women inspiring, supporting, and helping nonprofits and organizations in our community through donations of our time and money.

What prompted its creation?

WISH was founded in early 2010 by Kathy Schultze and Meghan Sweigart. After discussing networking opportunities within the community, the two believed that women should be able to come together to help one another expand their business without the bylaws and weekly commitments. As such, they formed what has become WISH.

In 2015, I began to manage WISH. The main focus changed to be community-driven, to support each other along with other organizations and nonprofits. Networking is still a priority while giving back to our community. I worked to collect and file the paperwork for WISH to become a nonprofit organization.

What are some of the organizations being helped?

We have monthly meetings and ask vari -

ous nonprofits to come and be our guest speakers. This enables us to hear more about the groups and better understand their missions. Some of the specific nonprofits that we have helped and donated to include the Frederick Rescue Mission and Faith House, Crossed Bridges, Soles of Love, Blessings in a Backpack, SOAR, SHIP, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Woman to Woman Mentoring, and Heartly House.

What kind of feedback have you received?

We have heard that people feel very supported and welcome when they attend a meeting or event. We work to keep our outreach “organic,” meaning we do things from the heart and come “as we are.” There are no expectations, judgments or prerequisites. We ask everyone to come with an open mind and open

heart, and we embrace them as they are. People have responded that they feel WISH is a warm and friendly family.

Do you do other activities as a group? We only had monthly morning meetings for several years. Some potential members couldn’t make the morning meetings, wanting other options. So, we added a monthly evening or weekday event. We try hard to do a variety of outings including crafts, events and tourism opportunities. We love to see people smiling and enjoying themselves. It also enables us to connect to our community in ways we may not have had the opportunity to do otherwise.

How has your career prepared you for leading WISH?

I have been a business owner for over 20 years and always worked to focus on people first. It has always been my guiding light in life and I have found when you focus on people, everything else comes from that. When WISH was primarily a networking group, the focus was connecting people for business. Now that we have transitioned to a nonprofit, the opportunities to focus on each other, the community, organizations and nonprofits have been amazing for all of us to share. We find that having members and friends in the same industry is not competition. We choose collaboration over competition and find that the support and inspiration from that is an amazing blessing that we all value and cherish.

The trouble with the term “business incubator” is it often suggests a specific animal.

A chicken.

Now, chickens might make fine mascots for some restaurants or even sports teams, but the rough-and-tumble world of startup businesses just isn’t analogous to delicate, tenderly caredfor birds chirping beneath heat lamps and protected from the outside world.

“We want to change the way people think about incubators,” says Kathie Callahan Brady, president and CEO of the nonprofit Frederick Innovative Technology Center Inc., better known by its FITCI acronym. “So, we started thinking about the mascot and what that would be.

A mountain goat wants to go to the top of the mountain—the view is best, the air is best, the grasses are the best, and they are crazy. They will literally hang on sheer cliffs. … I said, ‘You know what? That’s an entrepreneur!’”

Callahan Brady is speaking from the expansive common area in the new Maryland’s EDGE (Enabling Development and Growth for Entrepreneurs)—FITCI’s 40,000 square feet of labs,

offices and conference rooms on Ballenger Center Drive, nearly in the shadow of I-70. Opening last summer, the building is the front door for many startups and entrepreneurs in Frederick County.

Visitors to Maryland’s EDGE immediately notice the large common area, filled with modern furniture upholstered in bright blue and green, plenty of natural light, a café (with a full cookie jar) and an enormous LED screen that stretches

over an entire wall. The tranquility of the space belies the buzz of activity in the labs and offices in the rest of the building, and it also contradicts Callahan Brady herself, a fast-moving, faster-talking leader who enjoys showing off the building she guided from concept to reality … with more plans for growth.

“We’re really working hard on getting these guys to the next level. Basically, ‘whatever it takes’ has always been our philosophy.”

“We really want to inspire people,” she says, pointing to some of the modern conference rooms with all the latest technical gadgetry. Tenants at

Kathie Callahan Brady

FITCI use an app to reserve space of various sizes to suit their needs. “Everything here is very flexible. We can move it around quite a bit.”

It’s all part of creating an environment of innovation and collaboration that will help take startup businesses from an idea to the point where they “graduate” from FITCI and move into their own lab spaces, offices and manufacturing facilities.

“We’re really working hard on getting these guys to the next level. Basically, ‘whatever it takes’ has always been our philosophy,” Callahan Brady says.

The success speaks for itself, as FITCI has grown rapidly—from 12 client/tenant businesses in 2016 when Callahan Brady was hired to now 74, with 20 of them new since Maryland’s EDGE opened. What used to be one new client a month is now more like three. “It’s really growing, phenomenally so,” she says.

Among FITCI’s clients, 93 percent launch successfully, compared to a failure rate of about 50 percent during the first year for traditional businesses and another 50 percent the following year.

FITCI’s list of successful graduates is long and includes names like biomanufacturers Rooster Bio

and BioFactura and, more recently, Theradaptive, a developer of breakthrough technologies in the treatment of debilitating conditions due to tissue injury.

It is estimated that the FITCI startups and graduates add nearly $400 million to the local economy each year.

LEADING EDGE

The basic concept behind FITCI is to assist startup businesses—mostly engaged in technology and biotechnology—by providing lower-cost space than they would otherwise have to pay for in the private real estate market. The goal is to nurture the startups to the point of “commercialization,” where they are selling their products and can lease their own space.

Facilities can be a tall hurdle for new companies because they might only need 1,000 to 3,000 square feet for labs or offices when a private lease might start at 10,000 square feet or higher. “That’s the problem,” Callahan Brady says. “They don’t have anywhere else to go.”

At Maryland’s EDGE, a business can start with a bench and shared equipment before eventually growing into multiple offices and labs.

The new building is an obvious point of pride for Callahan, who oversaw it as a dream during the tough days of COVID-19 and through the ensuing spike in real estate prices. She visited 23 locations before settling on the existing office space on Ballenger Center Drive and a plan to renovate it with a budget of $9.5 million.

The only problem is the project cost $14 million. To bridge the funding gap, FITCI leaned on its network of local businesses to donate everything from wiring to security systems. “We

had so many amazing people,” she says. “We couldn’t have built this without all of those individuals.”

The renovation reflects feedback from clients, past and present, many of which used FITCI’s former lab space on Metropolitan Court (now being renovated as incubator space geared for startup manufacturers). “I spent a lot of time saying, ‘What did you like over there? What did you want to keep? What did you hate over there?” Callahan Brady says.

Now walking down a white hallway flanked with labs, Callahan Brady points out the many windows. “At most places, they build labs and they build them on the inside and they shove them in the dark. It’s like, ‘Eh, you’re lab rats.’ That’s not the way most people like it,” she says.

But the 93 percent success rate isn’t just about the building, she says. “I think a big part of that is the Fredderick community. We wrap experienced CEOs … as advisory boards around our companies,” she says. The CEOs become mentors and provide a layer of accountability,

and they can deliver immeasurable support in times of crisis.

“You build a team of support, a village of support,” says current client Sue Carr, founder of CarrTech. “It’s a positive culture.”

Carr joined FITCI in 2019 when she first took part in a mentorship program. Her business has

developed an all-in-one, time-saving device that combines a hypodermic needle with a filter that removes the tiny shards of glass created when opening single-use medicine containers. CarrTech has gained Food and Drug Administration approval and could enter the market as early as this spring.

Carr praises FITCI’s role in starting her business.

“They have done that and much more,” she says, citing the advisory, financial and mentorship support she has received. FITCI even helped CarrTech find a temporary CEO. “I would not be here [without FITCI].”

Finding a CEO for startup is part of FITCI’s “C-suite” program that matches the clients with potential executives, who bring with them skills in business management, raising funds, marketing and others. “You’ve got to have somebody in the lab running the lab, but you also have to have somebody running the business,” Callahan Brady says.

That is backed by FITCI’s programming and events. Eschewing the “lunch and learn” for -

mat, Callahan Brady says the classes offered at Maryland’s EDGE reflect the input of the advisors, CEOs and scientists themselves. Business experts then lead programs as varied as business modeling and how to prepare a presentation for potential investors.

Then there is the collaboration among the clients themselves, whether its during a formal program or over coffee in the café.

“I believe that’s part of the reason why they are so successful,” she says. “We are having more and more people drawn to the organization because of the programs.”

NEXT STEPS

Despite FITCI’s success in getting businesses off the ground, the stark fact is only about 23 percent of startup companies complete the years-long process of scientific research, business development

and possibly regulatory approvals to arrive at the commercialization finish line.

“We’re going to change that, though,” Callahan Brady says confidently. “We’re going to completely change that.”

FITCI is encouraging and strengthening relationships between the scientists and the commercialization experts from the start.

Part of that is getting the clients to think earlier about what business success will look like, rather than just being absorbed in science. FITCI is encouraging and strengthening relationships between the scientists and the commercialization experts from the start. “Pretty soon they are developing relationships and in

those relationships they start thinking about commercialization when they do their science, not when they are ready to commercialize. … It’s in those partnership—and we have a bunch of them lined up—that’s the next level of FITCI.”

FITCI is also a member of VIADUCT, a statewide partnership to reinforce pathways to commercialization across the state by marketing startups to potential financers. “We’re bridging resources across Maryland,” she says. “We’re now bringing investors to our companies.”

Callahan Brady is also looking at the second floor at the Ballenger Center Drive building, currently unleased by FITCI. Purchasing and

renovating that space would cost another $23 million, but the wheels are already turning. She can envision a “mezzanine” space upstairs for FITCI clients who have outgrown their smaller labs but are not quite ready for their own commercial real estate.

Callahan Brady’s involvement with incubators began years ago when she was first exposed to a program that offered incredible entrepreneurial support, but was only available periodically throughout the year. It piqued her interest in starting “an entrepreneurial ecosystem” that could exist permanently.

“That has always been my goal,” she says, looking at the EDGE common area. “This is my goal.”

A mural on one of the walls in the common area shows a mountain topped with a goat. Just feet away stands FITCI’s official stuffed mascot, Skyler Peak Preneur.

Yes, this is not the place for chickens, Here, Callahan Brady sees goats, current and future, working on tough problems, world

problems, sharing ideas, taking part in training and events, and ultimately building that entrepreneurial ecosystem for themselves and other goats.

“The magic will happen, and that’s where the real innovation happens,” she says. … “That’s what I want this place to be.”

Bread Rises Again

Twin Bears Bakery Revives Tradition of Carroll Street

By Nancy Luse / Photography by Mark Youngblood

In their journey to opening Twin Bears Bakery at 125 S. Carroll St., Andrew and Emily Roy heeded many voices, starting with those who tasted their sourdough bread and other baked goods, becoming loyal fans and demanding more.

When they decided to expand their business from farmers markets and community supported agriculture to a brick-and-mortar enterprise, they heard the encouragement of their landlords, Mike and Chris Smariga, who were excited to see the historically known “bakers’ row” of South Carroll Street once again producing bread. City staff overseeing the renovation, as well as those doing the work, were also valued by the couple for their comments.

But perhaps the strangest message along the way came to Emily in a dream as they were trying to figure out a name for the business. “In my dream there were two bears,” she says, and upon waking up, settled on the name Twin Bears Bakery. “When bears give you instructions in your dream, you gotta listen,” she says.

The couple, who met in San Franciso, the city of sourdough bread, moved to Frederick 10 years ago from California. Andrew trained at the San Francisco Baking Institute and says he takes pride in using traditional techniques. “We do everything by hand.” He mentions the bagels, saying they are what you’d find in New York City. “We bake breads with history,” he says.

A passion for tradition and the past extends to adding products that were once produced at the G&L Baking

The new home for Twin Bears Bakery continues the legacy for the building at 125 S. Carroll St., originally the home of G&L Baking Company that was in business for most of the 20th century.

Company, the building’s first tenant in 1909. Emily says an old advertisement from the 1950s references a lemon cookie and G&L had a line of crackers. The company also provided the U.S. military with hardtack during World War I, but the Roys are opting to pass on that one.

Back in the day, the Delaplaine Arts Center, located just down the street, was a steam mill where farmers brought their grain to be ground into flour, “then they shipped it up the hill,” Andrew says.

“The history of Frederick is rooted in its grains. We’re passionate about helping our farmers,” he says. A large wall map is planned that will let customers know that “eggs came from this farm; wheat came from here and honey was produced there.” They have even gone so far as to buy salt from a small operation in West Virginia and are seeking a local coffee roaster.

“We’re a business that came out of COVID,” Andrew says, a time when people became even more aware of “how sensitive our food system is,” and

sought to learn more about what it takes to put food on the table. With that in mind, the bakery has an open design where customers can watch the bakers in action as they fill the bagel kettle or see dough being kneaded.

The couple is taking advantage of the fortunate preservation of the old bakery, where you can see the old furnace and tread on the original concrete floor. Historical items are displayed, and they are asking that anyone connected to the old G&L operation, which ceased in the 1970s, to drop by and share their memories.

The bakery, which has a staff of six, with the Roy’s 11-yearold daughter, Zia, also lending a hand, is open at 6 a.m., a perfect hour for those heading to the nearby MARC station. Once the City Police Department takes over its new digs on Carroll Street, the bakery is hoping to attract their patronage—but no doughnuts are on the menu.

“What excites me most is being able to invite the community into our home,” Andrew says. Emily adds, “We’re so happy to bring a bakery back to the building.”

Bears owners Emily and Andrew

listened to many voices when it came to choosing a permanent home for their bakery, but it was a dream that prompted the business’ name.

The history of Frederick is rooted in its grains. We’re passionate about helping our farmers. “ ”

—Andrew Roy FM

Twin

Roy

biz bites

BUSINESS

STEM Center Opens in School

The Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation STEM Center at Carroll Manor Elementary recently opened with the collaboration of Rowan Digital Infrastructure. The center gives stu-

dents a chance to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics in a dynamic and interactive environment. Last year, Tuscarora Elementary and Whittier Elementary

Staff Changes at Downtown Frederick Partnership

Downtown Frederick Partnership recently appointed Brenna O’Malley as Marketing Manager and Feby Emelio to the newly created position of Communications Manager.

O’Malley will lead the promotion of Downtown Frederick and partnership events. She has previously worked with Bethesda Urban Partnership and RAK Brewing Co. In her new role, she will oversee a diverse advertising plan and event calendar, while ensuring that promotional efforts align with the organization’s strategic objectives.

Emelio will play a key role in promoting the Partnership as well as Downtown’s economic revitalization. She has nearly 20 years of experience in communications, arts administration and nonprofit management, and most recently worked with the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies. She will lead outreach, branding and public relations efforts.

“As we expand to a five-member team, we look forward to collaborating with them to achieve our goals and support the continued growth of our dynamic downtown community.” says Kara Norman, executive director of Downtown Frederick Partnership. www.downtownfrederick.org

unveiled new STEM centers.

The center features student workstations, providing opportunities to explore activities that encourage creativity, teamwork and practical problem-solving. Frederick County Public Schools Superintendent Cheryl L. Dyson says, “We are appreciative of this opportunity to inspire students from an early age.”

Martin Romo, senior director of economic development and external affairs at Rowan, says, “We are committed not only to advancing digital infrastructure but also to strengthening communities across Frederick County by investing in the workforce of tomorrow,” aligning with Rowan’s mission to invest in education and foster long-term community partnerships throughout Frederick County.

Veteran Employee of the Year Named

Brian Stocks, instructional assistant at Middletown High School, is the latest recipient of the Veterans in Education Service Award. The award was created eight years ago to honor a local public school employee who served in the armed forces and provided exemplary service to Frederick County Public Schools and the community. Woodsboro Bank sponsors the award, judged by a committee of FCPS staff, community members and veterans.

In addition to Stocks, nominees included: John Hayden, Oakdale High; Kenji Hicks, Walkersville Middle; Paul Hoffman, Walkersville High; Kevin Jaye, Brunswick Elementary; Randi Kirkland, Linganore High; Renee Rosa, Visual and Performing Arts, Curriculum, Instruction and Innovation; and Kenny Winters, Catoctin feeder schools.

Stocks served in the Maryland Army National Guard as a member of the Military Police, then as a deputy with the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office. He has been with FCPS for two years.

“In his work with our staff, our students and our families, he is a pillar of integrity and trustworthiness,” Middletown High Principal Bernie Quesada wrote in his nomination form.

on techBUSINESS

By Jeni Lubbert

Protecting Your Privacy

Recent security breaches exposing sensitive consumer data have highlighted the urgent need for robust privacy measures. As online platforms continue to collect, store and share vast amounts of personal information, protecting your privacy is more important than ever. Fortunately, there are several tools and practices you can adopt to safeguard your personal information.

Privacy-Focused Tools

• A virtual private networks (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for anyone—whether hackers or corporations—to track your online activity. By masking your internet address, VPNs provide an added layer of security, particularly when using public Wi-Fi networks.

• Communications apps like Signal and WhatsApp use end-to-end encryption to ensure that only the intended recipient can read your messages. This prevents third parties, including service providers or government entities, from intercepting private conversations.

• Web browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Brave are designed with privacy in mind, blocking trackers and third-party cookies.

These browsers limit the amount of data websites can collect about you, ensuring a more anonymous browsing experience.

• Password managers such as LastPass or Bitwarden can help you generate and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. These tools reduce the risk of using easily guessable passwords, which can be a common vulnerability for personal data theft.

Privacy Practices

• Limit data sharing. Be selective about the information you share online. Many websites and apps request access to unnecessary data, such as your location, contacts or even microphone. Always review permissions and consider whether sharing that

information is truly necessary.

• Regularly update privacy settings. Most social media platforms and websites offer privacy settings that allow you to control what others see. Adjust these settings regularly to minimize exposure, and avoid oversharing personal details, especially in public spaces.

• Use two-factor authentication (2FA). 2FA adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts. By requiring both your password and a second verification code (sent to your phone or email), 2FA makes it more difficult for attackers to gain unauthorized access.

• Clear your cookies and cache. Cookies can track your browsing behavior, allowing advertisers to target you with personalized ads. Regularly clearing your cookies and browser cache helps reduce the amount of information websites store about you.

By integrating these privacy-focused tools and practices into your digital life, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with online data collection. In an era of widespread surveillance and increasing numbers of security breaches, taking control of your privacy is not just a precaution, but a necessity.

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.

Community Café

Beans and Dreams—Nektario’s Place Brews Coffee and Goodwill

By Joseph Peterson

MIDDLETOWN—To achieve some dreams, it takes a village. And Middletown, though slightly bigger than a village, has proven the saying true by making one resident’s dreams of having his own coffee shop flourish with a steady stream of customers.

Beans and Dreams—Nektario’s Place is not your average small-town coffee shop. Occupying a spot in the Trolley House Market behind Tapia’s on Main, the cafe opened in March last year, introducing customers to an elegant yet bustling atmosphere adorned with artful furnishings and sophisticated design.

With an ample, galley style sitting area between the coffee bar and bakery cases and the all-windowed wall looking out to a patio, the breezy cafe embraces its cosmopolitan flare without compromising its approachability. But it doesn’t take long for customers to see something else going on that makes this cafe brim with ebullience and joy: it’s almost entirely staffed by a crew of young adults with special needs.

“I love taking people’s orders, and I like talking with people, so I love my job,” says 27-year-old Nicholas Chomiak.

Chomiak, who has Down syndrome, is one of 12 special needs employees at Beans and Dreams, and likes to recommend the cafe’s exceptional sausage, egg and cheese croissant or a white caramel latte. While speaking with Chomiak, 24-year-old CEO and cafe namesake, Nektario Tsinonis, who also has Down syndrome, joins in, sipping his favorite beverage from the menu.

Beans and Dreams—Nektario’s Place is almost entirely staffed by a crew of young adults with special needs, including CEO and cafe namesake, Nektario Tsinonis, who has Down syndrome.

“I love drinking a nice cold coffee,” he says. That coffee? A Greek Freddo Cappuccino made with whipped espresso over ice and a sweet and creamy froth—one of this cafe’s specialties.

Born into a big Greek family with four older siblings and one younger, Nektario and the other Tsinonises grew accustomed to working together at their family’s other Middletown restaurant, Aleko’s Village Cafe.

As the matriarch of the family, Joana Tsinonis is thrilled with the latest family venture as she helps guide its mission to offer young adults with special needs, like her son, an opportunity that stretches beyond gainful employment.

“They’re part of our community,” she says. “What we do is teach them to be part of society, and to be appropriate, learn how to ask questions, and engage people,” she said.

The goal is to empower young adults living with special needs to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, a slogan printed on the back of every staff member’s shirt. And when they’re integrated more into the community, the benefits cut both ways.

“You’re a better person when you’re around these kids,” Joana says. “So even with them working, the whole

point of giving them jobs wasn’t just to occupy them. It’s not like all they can do is clean the tables, they do everything! They ring up sales, they take orders, they make sandwiches, they clean.”

And while she firmly believes people want to do good, Joana says it’s not enough to rely only on customers’ goodwill, emphasizing the need to keep product quality and customer experience high, as well. “It matters what you serve. It has to be good food, because they’ll come once or twice to support you, but you also have to have a good environment.”

To this end, the culinary offerings at Beans and Dreams feature many cafe classics like ham and cheese croissants and at least 12 different kinds of cake. These are offered alongside freshly squeezed organic juices, savory and sweet Greek pastries, and locally baked goods as well.

So far, the cafe has been a hit. For Chomiak, he’s confident that every customer who comes into the café knows and loves him. “I can tell with my mind, because the reason why they love me is because I talk to them really kind.” he says. “I’m a good hard worker, and that’s why we’re part of [Nektario’s] team.”

Born into a big Greek family with four older siblings and one younger, Nektario (center) and the other Tsinonises grew accustomed to working together at their family’s other Middletown restaurant, Aleko’s Village Cafe.

“ ”

It matters what you serve. It has to be good food, because they’ll come once or twice to support you, but you also have to have a good environment.

—Joana Tsinonis FM

ON THE TABLE

tiny plates

NEXT GENERATION OF WINE MAKERS

In addition to producing award-winning wines and satisfying countless partakers since 1971, the third generation of the Aellen family, owners of Linganore Winecellars, 13601 Glissans Mill Road, Mount Airy, have focused equal attention on environmental stewardship as “one of our foremost values.”

Highlighting this is the recent opening of Simple Theory Wine Co., 37 N. Market St. The tasting lounge is located on the second floor, accessible by an elevator. In addition to wine, food specifically designed to enhance the sipping experience is available such as meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, crackers and bread.

Simple Theory is “the contemporary expression of winemaking featuring a blend of time-proven practices with a thoughtful approach to the art and science of winemaking,” according to the owners. They practice environmentally friendly “dry farming” where mowing the vineyard is minimized to promote a biodiverse ecosystem. They also favor solar power, recycling and having a single vineyard to produce their wine. They recently acquired a 41-acre site, a portion to be planted in grapes this year.

Most folks have probably visited the vineyard, a picturesque spot with rolling hills and the site of weddings and music fests. Now you can enjoy the wine at a cozy spot Downtown. www.simpletheorywines.com

AFRICAN DISHES WITHOUT THE TRAVEL

With an aim to “provide you the best food experience in your life,” Ayoka African Cuisine, 1100 W. Patrick St., Suite M, offers diners a menu that will take them on an exciting culinary journey, introducing new and different taste sensations.

Entrées include Yasa Chicken, a dish blending tender chicken with a heaping amount of caramelized onions in a sweet, spicy, lemony sauce, served with steamed rice. Fataya is another spe-

A

cialty; the hand-held pies can contain chicken, beef or salmon, accompanied by a spicy tomato sauce. The fisherman pot is a seafood lover’s dream and the Jollof rice that’s available is a staple of African cuisine. Shawarma chicken or beef, well-marinated and slowly roasted, is said to be one of the world’s most popular street foods. A visit to Ayoka is sure to open the door to new taste sensations. www.ayokaafricancuisine.com

FINAL SALUTE TO LA PAZ

After nearly 50 years as a Downtown Frederick fixture for Mexican food and drinks, La Paz, 51 S. Market St., served its last margarita and guac on Dec. 8. The restaurant, which started out at 18 Market Space, tucked away next to the Church Street parking deck, had a steady stream of loyal customers who came for the food and stayed for the live music.

This was the place of many first dates, office gatherings and family celebrations. When La Paz moved to Carroll Creek 18 years ago, it was especially popular in the warmer months for its expansive patio. Diners could engage in people watching and enjoying the outdoors along with savoring their meal. Owners Graham Baker and his wife, Marcie, announced the restaurant sale last fall, recently saying a new restaurant concept is slated for the location this year.

cravings ON THE TABLE

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. $$

airways inn

310 Aviation Way, Frederick. 301-228-2100 Sandwiches, salads and more. Adjacent to airport. $

H 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. $

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. $-$$$

ayoKa aFrican cusine

100 W. Patrick St., Suite M, Frederick. 240-626-1801. Enjoy a taste of authentic African dishes. $$

H Beans & Bagels

49 E. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-620-2165 Light breakfasts and lunches. $

Beans & Dreams

203 E. Main St., C, Middletown. 240-490-7070 Café and coffee shop. $

BeeF ‘n Buns ‘n ParaDise

1448 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-898-2075 Big burgers and great ice cream selections. $

Belles’ sPorTs Bar & grill

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. $$

BenTzTown

6 S. Bentz St., Frederick 301-301-8430. Southern fare. $$-$$$

Big PaPi’s

5711 Industry Lane, Frederick. 240-651-5969. Authentic Mexican dishes. $-$$

H BlacK hog BBq & Bar

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

Chicken wings, sandwiches and other family fare. $

Bushwaller’s

209 N. Market St., Frederick. 301-695-6988. Irish fare in an attractive pub setting. $$-$$$

The Buzz caFé

11801 Fingerboard Road, Suite 3, Monrovia. 301-865-4900. Scratch bakery and café that eatures 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. $$-$$$

H Café Bueno

255 E. 4th St. 301-620-8858. Authentic Mexican food. Burritos a favorite. $-$$

caFé nola

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. $-$$

Clay oven restaurant

1170 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-631-2004. Indian, Nepalese cuisine. $$-$$$

Coal fire

7820 Wormans Mill Road, Frederick. 301-631-2625. Coal-fired pizza, sandwiches, 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. $$

Delizia Café

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

H 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. $$

H DuBlin roasters Coffee

1780 N. Market St., Frederick. 240-772-5274 $-$$

H 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. $-$$

H 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. $

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. $$

freDeriCk soups

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

the GaraGe

440 Prospect Blvd., Frederick. 240-344-5340 Wood-fired pizza, appetizers, sandwiches, salads and locally brewed beers. $-$$

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. $-$$$

GoGi Go korean BBQ

1003 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-846-9888 Korean barbecue. $$-$$$

Gran azteCa mexiCan fooD Bar & Grill

6956 Crestwood Blvd., Frederick. 301-378-2785. Authentic Mexican Cuisine. $$-$$$

hinzi’s kitChen

503 N. East St., Frederick. 301-835-7694 Traditional Pakistani cuisine. $$

hippy ChiCk hummus

237 N. Market St., Frederick. 240-815-7175 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. $-$$

H 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. $$

H 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. $-$$

jojo’s restaurant & tap house 16 E. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-732-5197. American fusion. $$-$$$

jollof on point 452 Prospect Blvd., Frederick. 703-473-5788. Authentic Nigerian cuisine. $-$$

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. $$

H 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. $$

H lazy fish

10 E. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-695-9656 Asian sushi bistro. $-$$$

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

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. $-$$

LeLuna Bakery & Cafe

162 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 240-575-9107. Fresh baked goods, quiche, coffee and tea. $$

LiBerty road Seafood & Steak

10524 Liberty Road, Frederick. 301-898-3181. Home of the largest crab in Frederick County. Open all year round. $$$

Long Shot’S

5400 Holiday Drive, Frederick. (inside the Clarion Hotel). 301-694-7500. Starters, salad, sandwhiches, BBQ, full bar. $$ -$$$

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. $$

H 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. $-$$$

H 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

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. $$

H mayta’S Peruvian CuiSine

5010 Buckeytown Pike, Suite 148, Frederick. 301-732-4441. Fresh, authentic 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. $$-$$$

H north market PoP ShoP

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

Trickling Springs Creamery ice cream. 400-plus soda choices. $-$$$

oLd dominion griLL & SuShi 5732 Buckeystown Pike #18-20, Frederick. 301-682-6888. Family restaurant, American, Japanese, Thai, etc. $-$$$

H 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 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. $$

H 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. $-$$

H PL aza 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. $$

H Modern aSia

PumPernickel + rye

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

Market and deli. $-$$

ragin’ reef

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

A casual seafood restaurant with top quality fresh food, affordable prices, and unmatched service. $-$$$

H The Red hoRse

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. $$

rube’s crab shack

17308 N. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. 301-447-4116. All-you-can-eat seafood, dinner menu, lunch, fullservice bar and carryout. $-$$$

sabor de cuba

9 E. Patrick St., Frederick 301-663-1036 Cuban cuisine. $$

santa rosa restaurant

107 Baughmans Lane, Frederick. 301-662-9348 Salvadorean and Mexican food. $-$$

saPPoro ii

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

Fine Japanese and Korean dining. $-$$$

schroyer’s tavern

Maryland National Golf Club, 8836 Hollow Road, Middletown. 301-371-0000 Contemporary American cuisine. $$$

showroom

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

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

the shuckin’ shack oyster bar

41 S. Market St., Frederick. 240-575-9876 Seafood, friendly gathering place. $$

H silver diner

5120 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. 301-694-9501. Award-winning burgers, all-day breakfast, vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. $-$$$

simPly asia Pan asian bistro

120 Frederick Road, Suites B&C, Thurmont. 301-271-2858. Chinese, Thai, Japanese, sushi bar, Asian fusion, dine in, carryout, catering. $-$$

H south mountain creamery

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. $-$$

surf house island cantina 8925 Fingerboard Road, Urbana. 240-341-7157

Authenic surfer food and drinks. $$

sushi nomu

4969 Westview Drive, Frederick. 240-656-1330. Asian sushi. $-$$

suvai biryani

11791 Fingerboard Road, Monrovia. 301-363-8725 Mixing classic recipes with a modern twist. $$

Taco Bar

1450 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 301-732-5716 Authentic Mexican fast food. $

TeMpo di pasTa

244 E. Church St., Frederick. 240-780-8517. Gourmet Italian dishes. Handmade pasta. $$

taichi bubble tea

5866 Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick. 240-815-7961. Bubble teas, fruit teas, ramen, poke bowls, sushi burritos and rice bowls. $$

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. $-$$

taPia’s on main

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

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

temPo di Pasta

244 E. Church St., Frederick. 240-780-8517

Gourmet Italian dishes. Handmade pasta. $$

texas roadhouse

5105 Pegasus Court, Frederick. 301-682-7427. Hand-cut steaks, ribs, fresh-baked rolls and cold beer. $$

thacher & rye

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

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

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. $$

the tasting room 101 N. Market St., Frederick. 240-379-7772. European cuisine. $$$

thurmont kountry kitchen 17 Water St., Thurmont. 301-271-4071. Family owned and operated serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Award winning broasted chicken. $-$$

tin corner

700 N. Market St., Frederick. 240-575-9374 Serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine. $-$$

troPix Pots cuisines bar & grill

490 Prospect Blvd., Frederick. 240-877-4858 Authentic Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine. $$-$$$

uP on market bistro

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. $-$$$

valley grill sPorts bar Hollow Creek Golf Club, 50 Glenbrook Drive, Middletown. 301-371-0400

Contemporary American cuisine. $-$$

H 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. $-$$

Women Only

‘Girls Trips’ Find the Right Vibe With Destinations Near and Far

There’s something liberating about it—no child or spouse demanding attention, no workplace drama, no day-to-day agenda dripping with the mundane details of normal life. Vacations have often been perhaps the most popular way to recharge your soul after life itself has demanded so much from it for so long.

More recently, the idea of a “girls trip” has found popularity in the mainstream consciousness. Sure, a family getaway has its own appeal, but a girls trip? A girls trip is luxurious, freeing, exciting, new. A girls trip has no (or fewer?) rules. A girls trip congregates as a means of reward, a jackpot of fun without the type of responsibilities that a family vacation requires.

These days, a group of friends can travel anywhere from Nashville to New York—or, if a larger footprint is desired, far-flung locales like the islands and Europe.

April Zboyan, who owns The Velvet Lounge and Wildflower Weddings and Events, has been going on girls trips for years. In her case, she travels with a steady group of friends that she’s known for decades. And through the years, she stresses, she’s never taken for granted her ability to do so.

“The last four [trips] I’ve been on, it’s been the same crew of girls and we always go to an all-inclusive resort,’ she explains, adding that they typical -

A “girls trip” could be something as simple as a relaxing stays at an Airbnb cabin or as elaborate as a trip full of shopping, dining and nightlife.

By Colin McGuire

ly frequent the Caribbean. “We always seek out someplace to feel comfortable in. All we do at home is work and take care of the whole house; we want to go somewhere and detach, not have to work.”

There’s emphasis on keeping the laptop shut, she says.

“We’ll work sometimes on family vacations,” she jokes, “but none of us ever work on girls trips.”

Zboyan reflects on how she and her group keep the memories of their trips alive even when they aren’t beachside, enjoying the sun, sand and sweetness of being away. “Every time we go on a trip, we talk about it for months afterwards. We send pictures, quotes of things people said. We still even do that today, and we haven’t been on one in four years. The memories we make, we share forever.”

She adds, “We all go on family vacations all the time and they’re great But there’s something about going out with eight ladies and hanging out on the beach, being away from home, work, your husband, all of that. It’s a completely different experience.”

According to AAA, one in four women have participated in a ‘girlfriends’

getaway’ in their lives while 39 percent plan to do so at least once in the next three years.

Julie Gaver is one of those women. Having organized multiple girls trips in the past, she calls her journeys ‘travel adventures’ as she has led groups of women in the name of getting away. Through the years, she has led women everywhere from London to Ireland to Paris. She has a getaway to Greece planned for this year.

“The dynamic when you travel just with women is very different,” Gaver says. “In my case, we attract like-minded women. Maybe their husbands don’t like to travel or, in some cases, the women are divorcees or widows. They’ve always wanted to travel, but they want to do so with people they feel safe [around].”

One of the elements to Gaver’s trips is that sometimes all the women don’t know each other. “So, they don’t just come back with memories of an amazing trip; they come back with a whole new group of friends,” she says.

No matter the destination, a girls trip is the perfect way to toast old friends or perhaps make new ones.

We’ll work sometimes on family vacations, but none of us ever work on girls trips. “ ”

--April Zboyan FM

postcards ON THE ROAD

SWITZERLAND

John and Amanda Haddaway and Dan and Katie Schwienteck pose aboard the upper deck of the Uniworld River Queen while at port in Basel along the Rhine River.

NEW YORK

trip to picturesque Lake Placid includes a stop at the Mt. Van Hoevenberg Olympic Bobsled Run used in the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics.

JAPAN

Art and Annette Hanopole and Sara and David Harris’ tour of Japan includes a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto.

Celina Duenas’ road

you’re here ON THE ROAD

By Jake Wynn

Plan a Winter Escape Close to Home

When the cold winds blow, Frederick County offers the perfect respite with its array of inviting local indoor experiences perfect for the darkest season of the year—whether you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure, a cozy date night or simply a warm escape from the winter chill.

The vibrant performing arts scene lights up even the darkest winter evenings. At the heart of Downtown Frederick, the Weinberg Center for the Arts draws audiences with its lineup of shows. From captivating musical acts to thought-provoking lectures in the Frederick Speaker Series, there’s always something to inspire and entertain in this revitalized 1926 movie palace.

For those seeking a more intimate theatrical experience, the Maryland Ensemble Theatre delivers professional productions that range from laugh-out-loud comedies to gripping dramas. Its innovative performances are perfect for theater enthusiasts or anyone looking to try something new in a cozy setting.

If dinner and a show sound like the perfect pairing, head to the Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre. Enjoy a delicious meal while being whisked away by live performances, from classic musicals to contemporary hits. For an escape paired with cinematic thrills, Warehouse Cinemas on Frederick’s Golden Mile is the perfect destination. This delightful

movie theater offers up the latest blockbusters with the feel of a favorite neighborhood hangout. With its plush recliner seating, craft beer on tap and gourmet concessions—their grilled-cheese sandwiches rock—you can elevate your movie night to an unforgettable experience.

Need to burn some energy? Adventure Park USA, the region’s largest family entertainment center, offers everything from laser tag to an old-school arcade and their newest attraction—an indoor ropes course.

As for mental challenges, the area’s many escape rooms provide a unique, immersive experience. Solve puzzles, uncover clues and work together to “escape” before time runs out. Each venue offers a variety of themed adventures, ensuring there’s always something new to try.

Frederick County is rich in history and winter is the perfect time to delve into its storied past. Start at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, a fascinating destination that tells the story of innovation and compassion amidst the chaos of conflict. Located

on East Patrick Street, the museum offers engaging exhibits that highlight the region’s pivotal role during the Civil War.

For a peaceful and inspiring indoor experience, visit the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg. This sacred site honors the life and legacy of America’s first native-born saint. Experience a fascinating museum, where interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind artifacts explore Seton’s remarkable journey and her impact on education and social work in the United States.

Frederick County’s craft beverage scene is second to none, offering a diverse array of breweries, wineries and distilleries. Spend an afternoon sampling Frederick County wines at cozy tasting rooms, savoring the flavors of craft brews along Carroll Creek or warming up with a handcrafted cocktail using local spirits.

Frederick County’s indoor experiences make winter a season to embrace rather than endure. Whether you’re enjoying the arts, diving into history or indulging in local flavors, there’s always a warm and welcoming space waiting for you right here at home. For more information, head over to visitfrederick.org.

Jake Wynn is the senior 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.

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY

HOT PICK

Jan. 9

Art at Night: Toby Mendez

The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Toby Mendez primarily focuses on figurative commissions, combining a classical approach with a contemporary eye for site design. He has been creating sculpture in both the private and public sphere for more than 30 years, including large public works such as the Thurgood Marshall memorial (1996) at State House Square in Annapolis, and the Orioles Legends Celebration Series (2012) at Camden Yards. This talk will be accompanied by a tasting from McClintock’s Distilling. 7 p.m.–8 p.m. 301-6980656. www.delaplaine.org

Frederick County Decorative Arts

Ongoing

Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. Since the earliest days of European settlement, Frederick County has been a crossroads of diverse cultural experiences and traditions. The material culture of the county, from everyday utilitarian goods to finely-crafted luxury furnishings, reflects the blending of English and German decorative styles. Explore this exhibit that includes furniture, clocks, glassware, silverware, metalwork, textiles and portraiture. 301-663-1188. www. frederickhistory.org

24 East Church Street: A Home for Frederick County’s History

Ongoing

Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. Constructed between 1824 and 1826, the Federal styled building which Heritage Frederick has called home since 1960 has a multi-generational link to Frederick County’s history. This exhibit explores the varied experiences of the people who called the building home, from its builders and owners to enslaved people who worked at the property and orphaned girls who grew up in the house. 301663-1188. www.frederickhistory.org

Etchison Connections: A Family’s Hand in Frederick Evolution

Ongoing

Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St. Frederick County was built through generations of local families like the Etchisons. This exhibit explores the family’s integral involvement in the industrial, civic and commercial development of Frederick. An extensive collection of artwork, antique furniture, archival resources and early-19th century lusterware, which were given to Heritage Frederick .301-663-1188. www.frederickhistory.org

Jan. 4

Art Matters Artist Talk

The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Members of the Frederick County Arts Association discuss their work in this year’s members exhibition. 2 p.m. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Small & Sweet

Through Jan. 19

Gallery 322, 322 N. Market

St. An exhibit of fine art in small packages, Small & Sweet is a full group show featuring small paintings, assemblages and sculptures. Fridays, 4 p.m.–7 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, Noon–5 p.m. 240-815-7777. www.gallery322.com

Downtown Frederick Light Walk

Through March 9

Downtown Frederick. Explore five creative lighting installations (Disco Garage, Starlite, Light Drops, Kaleidoscope and Snowfall) on display in Downtown locations. See website for location map. www. downtown frederick.org

Sailing Through the Winter Solstice

Through March 14

Carroll Creek Linear Park, Downtown Frederick. Carroll Creek is lit up with boats sponsored by local businesses and organizations for observers to enjoy. 301-514-1182. www. coloronthecreek.com/sttws

Carillon Recital

Sundays in Jan.

Joseph Dill Baker Carillon in Baker Park, Downtown Frederick. The tower is open for guests to hear John Widmann, City Carillonneur play the 49bell carillon of bronze bells. 12:30 p.m. www.bakerparkcarillon.org

First Day Hikes

Jan. 1, 2

Maryland State Parks. Kick off the New Year outdoors with ranger-led, AllTrails-guided and self-guided hike options for the whole family. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks that encourages all 50 states to offer outdoor hiking opportunities on the first day of the new year. See website for hike locations and times. www.dnr.maryland. gov/publiclands/pages/firstdayhikes.aspx

General Grief Support Group

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23

Frederick Health Hospice, 1 Frederick Health Way. A dropin 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. Jan. 2 and 16, 2 p.m.–3:30 p.m.; Jan. 9 and 23, 5 p.m.–6:30 p.m. 240-566-3030. www. frederickhealthhospice.org

Imprimatur Jan. 3–26 NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St. An exhibition featuring the work of four printmakers: Judith Kornett, Andrea McCluskey, Julia Shrecengost and Lisa Tayerle. Their approaches to printmaking include many techniques, styles and subject matter. These artists work in both figurative and abstract styles with a richness of color, line and texture. An opening reception is scheduled for Jan. 4 from 5 p.m.–8 p.m. and an artist talk and demo are scheduled for Jan. 19 from 2 p.m.–3 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Noon–8 p.m.; Sundays, Noon–4 p.m. 240-367-9770. www.nomagalleryfrederick.com

Creative Outlet

Jan. 4

The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Kids and adults are invited to drop-in to get creative together on art activities at family tables. Each session features a themed activity. This month will feature paper quilling with guest artist Alison Armour. $2. 3 p.m.−5 p.m. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org

Frederick County Art Association

Members Exhibition Jan. 4–26

The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. The annual FCAA exhibition features members’ artwork in a variety of media, including paintings, photography, mixed media, drawings, collages, ceramics and sculpture. FCAA’s approximately 100 members range from casual painters to full time professionals. Patrons vote for a favorite piece and the artwork with the most votes will receive the People’s Choice Award. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org

Spectrum Jan. 4–31

TAG The Artists Gallery, 501 N. Market St. A members group exhibition. Fridays and Saturdays, Noon –8 p.m.; Sundays, Noon–4 p.m. 301-228-9860. www.theartistsgalleryfrederick.com

Open Artist Studios

Jan. 4, Feb. 1

Frederick Arts Council Studios, 7 N. Market St. Tour the FAC Artist Studios, mingle with artists and browse their work every first Saturday. 1 p.m.–5 p.m. 301-6624190. www.frederickartscouncil.org

Jin Lee

Jan. 4–Feb. 23

The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. An exhibition of sculpture titled, “Gash.” Provoked by recent political controversies surrounding women’s rights, Lee’s work focuses on conflict and responses to conflict’s power to result in transformation for the individual and society. A meet the artist event is scheduled for Jan. 4 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. 301698-0656. www.delaplaine.org

Featured: All Members Shows Jan. 4–Feb. 28

Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St. All members’ shows featured in January and February. A First Saturday opening is scheduled for Jan. 4 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Noon–5 p.m. www. eastsideartistsgallery.com

Downtown Frederick Artwalk Jan. 5

The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Take a self-guided jaunt downtown and visit local galleries. At the Delaplaine, Lori Boocks will be showcasing small, vibrant paintings on wood. Noon–4 p.m. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org

Noelani Jones Jan. 4–Feb. 23

The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. An exhibition of works in a variety of media titled, “Time is a Place.” Jones’s work in this exhibition focuses on the accrual of thread in woven cloth and its metaphorical and actual connection to time and place. All of the textiles in the exhibition have been made with reciprocity with the land in mind, from the cultivation of plants for dyeing to the utilization of a foot-powered loom. A meet the artist event is scheduled for Jan. 4 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. 301-698-0656. www.delaplaine.org

Great Expectations Jan. 9

Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Enjoy this 1946 film based on Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Pip, a poor orphan who befriends an escaped convict and who grows up in the company of a bitter old woman, Miss Havisham, and her haughty young ward, Estella. Pip learns the rewards of both vindictiveness and gratitude as a result of these events. Presented by Wonder Book. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-6002828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Physical Therapy Education: Fall Prevention Jan. 9

Middletown Branch Library, 101 Prospect St., Middletown. Dr. Matt Larson, physical therapist and army veteran, will discuss fall risks, fall prevention and techniques to improve balance. 1 p.m. www.frederickmagazine.com/calendar

The Plastic Age Jan. 11

Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Enjoy a showing of the 1925 silent film, accompanied by the mighty Wurlitzer organ. Hugh Carver is an athletic star and a freshman at Prescott College. He falls in love with Cynthia Day, a popular girl who loves to go to parties. He finds that it is impossible to please her and still keep up with his studies and his athletic training, and soon the two face some difficult decisions. 3 p.m. $. 301600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Laila Jan. 11

Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Enjoy a showing of the 1929 silent film, accom panied by the mighty Wurlitzer organ. A spirited Norwegian lass is torn between two suiters and two cultures. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Meet the Author: Stephen Budiansky Jan. 14

National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St. In this virtual event Live on Facebook, author Stephen Budiansky presents on his book, A Day in September: The Battle of Antietam and the World It Left Behind , followed by a question and answer session. 7 p.m.–8 p.m. 301-695-1864. www.civilwarmed.org/event

Community Concert Series: Marjory Serrano-Coyer and Hsin-Yi Chen Jan. 12

Calvary United Methodist Church, 131 W. 2nd St. Dr. Marjory Serrano-Coyer, violinist, and Dr. Hsin-Yi Chen, pianist, present an unforgettable journey called “Tranquil Turbulence: A Musical Odyssey,” showcasing both technical mastery and emotional depth, and delivering an afternoon of musical enchantment. This event is free and open to the public. 3 p.m. 301-662-1464. https:// calvaryumc.org/concerts

BYOS: Yoga and Art Jan. 16

The Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St. Bring your own supplies and get ready to respond to this session’s featured source of inspiration: artistic mindfulness through yoga. Caroline Orlowski, artist, yoga instructor, and former Delaplaine intern, will lead the group in guided movement and meditation to practice intentionality with art. Bring your own artistic medium of choice (and yoga mat). Easels are available. No yoga experience necessary. All bodies are welcome! Registration is encouraged. 5 p.m.–8 p.m. 301-6980656. www.delaplaine.org

MET’s Leading Ladies Cabaret Jan. 17, 18

Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St. A captivating musical theatre cabaret celebrating the power, grace and artistry of women in the world of musical theatre. Audiences will be treated to an evening of unforgettable performances featuring some of Broadway’s most beloved songs, performed by MET fan favorites. 8 p.m. $. 301-694-4744. www.marylandensemble.org

It’s the 5 O’clock Somewhere Tribute to Jimmy Buffett Jan. 18

New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St. Experience the life and times of Jimmy Buffett as told through the back stories of his greatest hits, performed by musicians who played the same stages Buffet played in Key West. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

The Price is Right Live

Jan. 21, 28

Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. The hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to hear their name called and “Come on Down” to win. Play classic games just like on television’s longest running and most popular game show! 7 p.m.–9 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Labyrinth Jan. 22

New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St. A 1986 film about a young female who must go on a journey to rescue her baby brother who has been kidnapped by a sinister male master of manipulation. Sponsored by Brewer’s Alley. Happy hour at 6:30 p.m. with free tasting and more. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. $. 301600-2828. www.weinbergcenter.org

The Mousetrap Jan. 17–March 1

The Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive. In the world’s longest-running play, when a local woman is murdered, the guests and staff at Monkswell Manor find themselves stranded during a snowstorm. It soon becomes clear that the killer is among them, and the seven strangers grow increasingly suspicious of one another. When a second murder takes place, tensions and fears only escalate. Based on one of Agatha Christie’s most iconic murder mysteries. See website for show times. $. 301-662-6600. www.wayoffbroadway.com

Teddy’s Toy Box Jan. 23–26

Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St. Teddy’s Toy Box invites young audiences into a whimsical world where imagination knows no bounds. Join Teddy, a lovable teddy bear who dreams of adventure beyond their cozy toy box, as they embark on a playful journey filled with interactive and immersive experiences. This fun theatrical experience is perfect for sparking creativity and joy in the hearts of the young. See website for show times. $. 301-694-4744. www.marylandensemble.org

Beginnings: A Celebration of the Music of Chicago Jan. 25

Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. The magic of a live Chicago performance comes to life in this recreation of their songbook of contempo rary hits. 7 p.m. $. 301790-2000. www.mdtheatre.org

Golden Mile International

Festival & Market Jan. 25

Warehouse Cinemas, 1301 W. Patrick St. Presented by the Golden Mile Alliance, this celebration of the Golden Mile’s cultural diversity features dancing, food, music, vendors and more. 240-367-3588. www.visitfrederick.org

Gangstagrass Jan. 30

Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Gangstagrass combines American traditions of bluegrass, hip-hop and beyond to create a new musical genre that is more than the sum of its parts. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www. weinbergcenter.org

First Saturday–Fire in Ice Jan. 31 and Feb. 1

Downtown Frederick. Downtown Frederick is transformed into a winter wonderland at this annual event. Experience the magic of winter with ice sculptures, live carving demonstrations, fire dancers, winter-themed family fun and more at this popular event that kicks off on Friday evening. Many shops, galleries and restaurants will be open until 9 p.m. or later. 301-698-8118. www.downtownfrederick.org

The Wild World of Animals Jan. 31 Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. An adventure like no other, this exciting live show brings participants up close with some of the planet’s most majestic, fascinating and critically endangered creatures. Join expert Grant Kemmerer as he introduces 13 amazing animals from all corners of the animal kingdom, highlighting the incredible diversity of wildlife and teaching the importance of every species. 7 p.m. $. 301-790-2000. www.mdtheatre.org

Admiral Radio Feb. 6

New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St. This husband-and-wife, singer-songwriter duo weave a unique Americana sound blending traditional country, folk and roots music. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-6002828. www.weinbergcenter.org

Something Old, Something New: Bridal Swap Meet and Vendor Show Feb. 2

Steinhardt Brewing Company, 340 E. Patrick St., Suite 102. For the brides to be, shop for wedding wares and décor, while meeting vendors. Entrance is free but donations will be collected at the door to support Heartly House. Presented by Nevermore Weddings & Events. Noon–3 p.m. 301-471-0901. www.downtownfrederick.org

Frederick Speaker Series: Dr. Robert Ballard Feb. 6

Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St. Presented by the Frederick Speakers Series, renowned ocean explorer and scientist, Dr. Robert Ballard discusses undersea discovers in recent years and presents his recent work in deep water archaeology and the technology of tele-presence. Ballard shares about motivating people to think outside the box, learning how to deal with failure, motivating children to choose careers in math, science and engineering, and more. Tickets are also available for a private meet and greet reception following the show. 7:30 p.m. $. 301-600-2828. www. weinbergcenter.org

The Beauty Queen of Leenane Feb. 7–March 2

Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St. In this intimate and pitch-black comedy from Martin McDonagh, set in the mountains of Connemara County, Galway, Maureen cares for her manipulative, ailing mother, Mag, in a seemingly endless cycle of spite and mutual loathing. When an old friend arrives from Maureen’s past, will he be enough to break the cycle? See website for show times. $. 301-6944744. www.marylandensemble.org

Bootleggers Ball Feb. 8

Union Mills Public House, 340 E. Patrick St., Unit

A. A 21 and over costumed affair with live music, raffles, appetizers and specialty cocktails… speakeasy style!

6:30 p.m. –11 p.m. $. 301-600-2844. www.celebratefrederick.com/events

EVENTS

Community Concert Series

Presents Pianist Brian Ganz Feb. 16

Calvary United Methodist Church, 131 W. 2nd St., 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Calvary UMC’s 2024-2025 Community Concert Series presents Brian Ganz, who returns for another “All-Chopin” program as he continues his quest to perform every work of music by the great composer. This concert is an interactive and highly energetic performance where Ganz brings Chopin’s music to life with emotional power and warmth. This free concert is sponsored in part by The Delaplaine Foundation and The William E. Cross Foundation.

Ringing in the Year of the Snake Feb. 15

Frederick Community College, JBK Theatre, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, 2 p.m.-4 p.m., sponsored by the Asian American Center of Frederick. Celebrate the joy of the Lunar New Year with activities and experiences of traditions and culture. Event is free of charge.

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab Recurring on Fridays Tenth Ward Distilling Company, 55 E. Patrick St., 8 p.m.-10 p.m. No charge. The Cocktail Lab will be serving up delicious wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right.

Author Talk with Charlene Thomas Feb. 27

9020 Amelung St., 6 p.m.7 p.m. Presented by Curious Iguana bookstore. Hear from young adult author Charlene Thomas, who will be discussing her latest novel Streetlight People and sharing about her writing process for those interested in creative writing. Following her presentation, Thomas will answer questions and sign books. Copies of Streetlight People will be available for purchase at the event presented in partnership with Frederick County Public Libraries.

FM

Emmit’s Town

By Jody Brumage / Archivist, Heritage Frederick

Emmitsburg’s skyline is still dominated by the spires of its historic churches.

Samuel Emmit divided a portion of his land in northern Frederick County into lots for a new town in 1785. He had acquired the land 30 years earlier from Charles Carroll of Duddington, part of a 5,000-acre tract that straddled the Mason-Dixon Line. Within a year of the establishment of Emmit’s town, several families settled and began serving travelers at a busy intersection of roads carrying people and trade throughout the region.

Even before Emmit’s arrival, several families moving from Southern Maryland acquired land in the area. William Elder was among the earliest, purchasing a tract of land in the area of today’s Mount St. Mary’s University. The Elders and other Catholic families who settled nearby attracted Jesuit missionaries from Conewago Mission near Hanover, Pa., who traveled to the area and established several churches. In

1808, Father John DuBois started a school and encouraged the Society of St. Sulpice to relocate its seminary to Emmitsburg, leading to the foundation of Mount St. Mary’s College.

The settlers were soon joined by Elizabeth Ann Seton, who established a religious order for women named the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph’s. In 1809, Seton established St. Joseph’s Academy and Free

School in Emmitsburg, the first free parochial school for women in the United States. Seton became the first American citizen to be canonized as a Catholic saint in 1975.

Emmitsburg’s skyline is still dominated by the spires of its historic churches that represent the English, German and Scotch-Irish origins of the families who established this Frederick County community 240 years ago. FM