72 HOURS, Feb. 13, 2025

FEBRUARY 13

LOVE and SEX issue

INSIDE: IS SPAM … LOVE?

SOMETHING SWEET: AN INFLUX OF FREDERICK BAKERIES

‘ROMANCING THE NOVEL’ EXHIBITION

A COUPLES COUNSELOR’S TIPS FOR LONGEVITY

VALENTINE’S DAY DESTINATIONS

MOUNT AIRY COUPLE CELEBRATE 70TH ANNIVERSARY

FREDERICK’S RISING BAKERY SCENE

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day treat? Frederick’s burgeoning bakery scene has you covered! The latest addition, Twin Bears, joins an impressive lineup of sweet spots — Bakehouse, Le Luna, JUNO, Acorn Provisions (tucked inside Visitation Hotel) and others offering everything from artisanal bread to decadent pastries. There’s something for every sweet tooth in town.

CELEBRATE YOUNG VOICES

In a celebration of creativity and heritage, the fifth annual Seed to Roots Performance & Art Showcase will return on Feb. 17 at the Weinberg Center. This beloved community event has grown from humble beginnings to become one of Frederick’s most inspiring youth arts gatherings. Watch as our community’s young artists share their interpretations of Black history and culture through dance, music, spoken word and visual arts. Every ticket sold helps nurture the next generation of creative voices through performing arts scholarships.

LOCAL TALENT STRIKES GOLD

Here’s a story that makes our hearts sing: Frederick’s own Mike Kuster has been named the Independent Music Network’s 2024 Songwriter of the Year. His authentic storytelling in songs like “Front Porch Swing” and “Back To Feagaville” has captured hearts nationwide while staying true to his Frederick roots. His latest radio single, “All The Women I Want Are Already Married” just hit the airwaves this month, adding another chapter to his journey.

ROMANCE MEETS ART

Just a stone’s throw from Frederick, McDaniel College’s Esther Prangley Rice Gallery has transformed into a celebration of love stories and artistic expression. Their new exhibition, “Romancing the Novel,” weaves together original cover art, rare manuscripts, publicity materials, genre history and fan artwork — even featuring Roy Lichtenstein’s “Crying Girl,” on loan from Yale University Art Gallery. This free exhibition runs through March 7, with a special event on Feb. 27 when historian Nicole Jackson gives a talk exploring the history of Black romance literature.

SNL’S GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

Saturday Night Live is celebrating 50 years of comedy with a star-studded, three-hour special from 8 to 11 p.m. Feb. 16. Expect the biggest reunion of SNL cast members ever, plus special guests and classic clips from five decades of late-night laughs.

VALENTINE’S HORROR?

For those who prefer screams to sweetness, check out “Heart Eyes,” a wickedly fun rom-com slasher film playing in theaters. This R-rated romp follows a jaded ad exec and her workplace rival as they dodge an emoji-masked killer who’s targeting couples on Valentine’s Day. Perfect for horror fans looking for an alternative to traditional Valentine’s fare, right?

EDITOR’S NOTE: Share your community stories and events with us! Email llarocca@newspost.com.

Meet Bob & Freddie. When it comes to local businesses, businesspeople and organizations in Frederick, they know best. Here is a personal interview with a 2024 Best of the Best winner or finalist about why they love what they do, helping those they serve and working in Frederick.

The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics –MMI Division

86 Thomas Johnson Drive, Frederick 301-694-8311 mmidocs.com

BOB HISTORY

2024-2017 – Winner, Orthopedic Surgery Practice

2024, 2023 – Finalist, Physical Therapy Center

2024-2017 – Finalist, Podiatric Practice

2022-2015 – Winner, Physical Therapy Center

WHAT MAKES FREDERICK COUNTY A GREAT PLACE TO DO BUSINESS?

Frederick county is an excellent place to have a business due to a growing population, a strong Healthcare network, and a community that values quality care. The area’s focus on health and wellness, combined

with a strong referral network and supportive medical community, makes it an ideal location for medical professionals to thrive.

WHAT SETS YOUR BUSINESS APART?

Our mission at MMI is to give each patient the best possible quality of life at the lowest possible risk. We have a range of specialists in our office who will collaborate to give our Frederick community the best care possible.

WHAT KIND OF INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENT COULD YOU PROVIDE FOR OUR RESIDENTS IN FREDERICK?

No two treatment plans are alike. We provide patients with individualized care that includes physical therapy and training recommendations. We believe in full communication with our patients, their referring physicians, and their principal caregivers about their diagnoses, treatment options, and progress.

EAT & DRINK

Twin Bears is the latest to open amid Frederick’s burgeoning bakery scene

BY COLIN McGUIRE

Special to The News-Post

“Do you think you could do better?”

It’s a playful question that can sometimes turn spiteful. Perhaps a little bit of anger is behind it; perhaps some defiance. Love can accompany it, too. The answer is almost always “yes,” even if the answer isn’t particularly serious — and, for that matter, doesn’t warrant a result conducive to affirmation.

It’s also a question that Twin Bears Bakery’s Andrew Roy received some time ago. Not from an adversary. Not in a fit of rage. Not overtly antagonistic. Instead, it came from his wife, Emily.

“We were working from home and she found an old-fashioned stone mill, so we started ordering flour from them,” Andrew explained in a recent interview. “She started baking bread, and to be honest, they were some pretty bad loaves of bread. I joked that we could play frisbee with them,” he added with a laugh, “so she asked me if I thought I could do better. I said I could — but that was a really bad loaf of bread, too.”

The domestic experiment might have yielded some inedible endgames, but all was not lost with its lasting effect: As Andrew tells it, the friendly competition resulted in him falling in love with what he called “the sourdough process.” As a result, he started baking every day in an attempt to get better at his new-found hobby.

It wasn’t easy. At the time, Andrew was running a construction project management firm but used whatever free moments he could steal to hone his craft. Before long, he became pretty good at baking, ultimately sharing the fruits of his labor with friends and colleagues. Before long, he found himself providing loaves for dinner parties and setting up shop at places like

rant Thacher & Rye.

In a thousand years, he never thought he’d be the owner of a downtown bakery in Frederick, but alas, those impossibilities became realities recently when Twin Bears Bakery opened on South Carroll Street. The decision to go into the bakery business, he said, came as a result of patience and practice.

BAKERIES

Acorn Provisions

211 E. Church St., Frederick (inside Visitation Hotel)

Another Slice of Cake

238 N. Market St., Frederick Bakehouse

69 S. Market St., Frederick Deliciosa Bakery

1507 W. Patrick St., Frederick Juno Bakery

10 S. Market St., Frederick

Le Luna Bakery & Cafe

162 W. Patrick St., Frederick Roggenart European Bakery, Bistro & Cafe

1305 W. Seventh St., #19, Frederick Stone Hearth Bakery

138 N. East St., Frederick Twin Bears Bakery

125 S. Carroll St., Suite 104, Frederick

from local farmers. In a lot of ways, so much of our focus is on high-quality ingredients.”

The Roys’ business is the latest in a slew of bakeries that have popped up in and around downtown Frederick. One shop instrumental in the launch of Twin Bears was Bakehouse, a South Market Street bakery owned by Kim and Dan MacDonald that opened in 2021. Their relationship has been mutually beneficial as both businesses evolve, Andrew said.

the Frederick City Market before being called upon to provide bread at Bryan Voltaggio’s former Frederick restau-

“We really built our customer base one person at a time,” Andrew said. “We’ve approached it like we are a village bakery, and we try to give people what they want. I’ve since gone back and received traditional bread training, and we get as much as we can

“They have been sending people who are looking for real breads to us for years,” he explained, adding that the MacDonalds supported their cause long before the brick and mortar opened. “And we aren’t going to start making morning buns or croissants, so if you’re looking for that, I always tell people to go see Kim and Dan.

Various types of bread, baked at Twin Bears Bakery in Frederick.

Staff photos by Ric Dugan

Andy Roy cuts dough to be weighed for loaves of bread at Twin Bears Bakery.

“They got started at the Frederick City Market, so when they got their brick and mortar, they stopped doing the markets and we moved in to fill the spot they left open,” he continued. “The relationships that you build at the farmers markets — they stick with you throughout your business. When we opened the doors here, that crew of folks was in here celebrating with us. You have to take time to invest in the community.”

That community has expanded exponentially in Frederick. In addition to longtime business like Stone Hearth Bakery on North East Street, Le Luna Bakery & Cafe on West Patrick Street opened its doors within the past year, Another Slice of Cake on North Market Street offers a wide array of sweets for special events, and Juno Bakery sees steady business with its flavored croissant rolls.

In short, Frederick has become a burgeoning destination for bakeries. And according to the owners of the city’s latest addition, that abundance of options isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

“People ask me all the time if I’m concerned about there being too many bakeries,” Andrew said, “but I always tell them that it’s just different. There’s enough for all of us. I see Kim and Dan’s success and I think it’s wonderful. Frederick is a big town, and a lot of people are very passionate about food. There’s room for all of us here.”

As for if he believes he and his wife have, in fact, “done better” since those early days experimenting at home with half-edible frisbees, Andrew chuckled.

“So few people are doing what we do,” he said. “Everyone has their own thing, and we make honest-to-goodness bread, made by hand, traditionally fermented, baked in an actual artisan deck oven. We’ll never be a cake bakery, and that’s OK. There are other great places for that around here. We’ve had to pull from so many different skill sets and learn a lot along the way. It took a lot for us to get it off the ground and get it to what we envisioned it to be.”

He paused.

“You know,” he concluded. “It’s pretty neat.”

Le Luna Bakery & Cafe combines French pastries and Thai flavors

After finding success along Frederick’s Golden Mile with Thai Meric, local restaurateur Pim Huynh was ready for a new venture in the city’s downtown.

In February 2024, Huynh partnered with family friend Pang Paitoon to open Le Luna Bakery & Cafe on West Patrick Street. The space had been vacant since Glory Doughnuts and Diner closed its doors in 2022, Huynh said.

At Le Luna, Huynh and Paitoon combine classic French pastries with traditional flavors from their home country of Thailand, serving fusion items like layered Thai tea cake, Thai-inspired banana bread and a chicken panang curry sandwich.

In addition to à la carte baked goods and brunch items, Le Luna also offers custom cakes in different flavors for special occasions. Coffees and teas are also a staple on the menu.

Before opening Le Luna, baking and decorating cakes and pastries was just a hobby for Paitoon. A banker by trade, she went into

the restaurant business because she grew tired of working at a desk and wanted to do something more handson.

Huynh, who still spends her

evenings operating Thai Meric, said she and Paitoon are looking forward to creating more menus for Le Luna in the future.

— Ceoli Jacoby

LE LUNA BAKERY & CAFE

162 W. Patrick St., Frederick 240-575-9107

lelunabakery.square.site

Facebook: facebook.com/leluna.cafe Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Closed on Tuesdays.

Price: Menu items range in price from $3.45 for a scone to $48 for a whole quiche.

Pim Huynh recommends: The almond croissant, which comes with a sweet almond filling and sliced almonds on top.

The almond croissant at Le Luna Bakery & Cafe on West Patrick Street in Frederick.

Staff photos by Ric Dugan

Pang Paitoon, left, and Pim Huynh, co-owners of Le Luna Bakery & Cafe in Frederick.

The make-believe wedding that came true Mount Airy couple celebrates 70 years of marriage

BY ERIN JONES

Special to The News-Post

The problem with weddings is boys. At least, that’s how 5-yearold Carole McFarland felt about her make-believe wedding in 1942. She was eager to wear the tiny wedding dress, sewn by her grandmother, and be surrounded by sisters and friends in their finest bridesmaid dresses. She wasn’t scared to stand in front of the attendees at her church, Mount Olive Methodist in Randallstown.

But there was one problem. Her so-called groom. She shared this magical day with 7-year-old Carter “Mac” McFarland. A predicament, because, well, he was a boy.

“I didn’t want to touch him, because I didn’t touch boys,” Carole recalled.

A peer’s mother, who was helping with the event, made her an offer.

“She said, ‘Now Carole, if you’ll just put your hand through his arm, I’ll let you come and play with Barbara.’ If you can see in that little picture, my hand is barely at his elbow.”

The picture in the photo album sits just across from their second wedding picture — the same bride and groom but nearly 13 years later. At wedding No. 2, there was nothing make-believe about the celebration, nor the love between the two of them, and Carole felt considerably more agreeable about being on the arm of Mac McFarland.

The photos and heirlooms around the couple’s Mount Airy home allude to the richness of their life together, and the smiles and laughs that emerge when they are side by side haven’t dimmed after seven decades of marriage.

The McFarlands’ first wedding served as a fundraiser for the church to purchase a new carpet. At the time, dressing up children and throwing them a make-believe wedding was a popular trend known as a Tom Thumb wedding.

The trend was named after the 1863 wedding of Charles Stratton to Lavinia Warren. Stratton became famous under the stage name “General Tom Thumb” in P.T. Barnum’s shows, and both he and his wife stood under 3 feet tall.

“Sometime after that, schools and churches and organizations started having plays of Tom Thumb weddings with children in them,” Carole said. “So our Sunday school

“ God has blessed us, beautifully.

CAROLE McFARLAND

teacher — who was a romantic, I guess — decided to have one at our church, and she selected us as bride and groom.”

The matchmaking was not the first meeting of the two. Mac’s father, Stanley, was the minister of their church and had baptized Carole when she was 10 months old.

“We always knew each other, even two years difference in age,” Carole said. “We weren’t buddies, but we were in the same groups. It was just a small, very friendly church.”

Once the memory of the first wedding faded into the bustle of childhood, the two did not retain any particular relationship beyond growing up in the gaggle of church children.

Carole later discovered the name “Carter Lee McFarland” written in

a middle school notebook divider. “But I had other boys names in there, too,” Carole added, a qualification that elicits wry teasing from Mac and laughter from them both.

When Mac was 17 years old and Carole was 15, he was working at the local gas station when the owner of the gas station pointed out Carole to him. “‘See that girl walking up the street?’ he said, ‘Well, why don’t you date her?’” Mac recalls.

Carole and her sisters were preparing to go to the movies on a Sunday afternoon when the phone rang, and her older sister answered it. To all of their astonishment, Mac was on the other end, asking for Carole.

Mac and Carole’s first date was Jan. 6, 1952, nearly 10 years after their first wedding, though neither of them made the connection until a couple months later, when a woman from the church reminded them of the Tom Thumb wedding. Fittingly, on that first date, they went out to see the movie “Too Young to Kiss”

starring June Allyson.

Two months into dating, the pair had tickets to see Sonja Henie’s 1952 Ice Review at the 5th Regiment Armory in Baltimore, when the stands collapsed.

“We had just sat down and we heard this rumbling that sounded like a big drum corps, rumbling,” Carole recalled. “It was the bleachers we were sitting on, colliding. We crumbled in a pile — everyone on our section of bleachers. We never got to see the ice review. They canceled it.”

More than 250 people were injured in the incident. The couple and some of their siblings had been sitting at the top and landed toward the top of the pile, relatively unharmed, though Carole’s sister, then 11, did suffer a minor injury. The incident would not be the last taste of hardship for the young pair. Mac joined the Marine Corps and was deployed in Korea during their engagement. Despite the difficult separation, Carole fully supported the decision.

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

Husband and wife Carole, left, and Carter “Mac” McFarland pose together at their home in Mount Airy on Jan 30. The couple recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

“The desire for a place to be and something worthwhile to do was very strong in him,” Carole said, “so I certainly went along without any disagreement.”

Eight months before their wedding, Mac’s father died suddenly of a heart attack while on a hunting trip with friends. Mac was still deployed in Korea at the time.

The plan had been for his father to marry the pair, as he had his three oldest sons, Mac’s brothers. His absence was felt keenly on their wedding day, and the pain of his loss still lingers decades later. Grief still flickers across the conversation at his recollection.

The McFarlands were married on Jan. 8, 1955, three years and two days after their first date and nearly 13 years after the pair had dressed up as bride and groom in the same church. Carole’s younger sister was her maid of honor and Mac’s younger brother his best man. The ladies’ society of the church hosted the reception, complete with a big wedding cake, as well as nuts, mints and ice cream.

After honeymooning in the Poconos, Mac continued his Marine duties at Quantico, while Carole worked as a statistical clerk at what was then called Olin Mathieson Chemical Corporation in Baltimore.

of Carole and Carter “Mac” McFarland posing at their first — and second — wedding. The Mount Airy couple recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. In the photo on the left, the two were the bride and groom in a Tom Thumb wedding when they were children. On the right is a photo from their wedding day.

The years that followed would bring them two sons, five grandchildren and a host of adventures together. They farmed five acres in West Friendship and spent 14 years living on a mountaintop in Virginia. Carole

worked in accounting, while Mac worked as an electrical technician.

Mac retired at 58, assuming that his lifespan would mirror that of his father and uncles, who died young. Instead, he is enjoying 32 years and counting of retirement.

The couple recently celebrated 70 years of marriage.

“We celebrated that day by cleaning out a bookcase that we’re giving away,” Carole said. “We have two boxes of books that are going to Goodwill.”

What is their secret to seven decades of a happy marriage?

“Love for God and love for each other,” Mac said. “Trust in each other. We’re both the boss. We make decisions together.”

“Conversation,” Carole added. “Lots of conversation.”

It’s not every day that childhood make-believe comes true, but in the case of the McFarlands, the eccentric, theatrical 1940s ceremony became a whimsical foreshadowing of a lifetime side-by-side.

“God has blessed us,” Carole said, “beautifully.”

Erin Jones is a freelance writer, former humanities teacher and owner of Galvanize & Grow Copywriting. She holds a BA in English from Hood College and an MA in English from the Bread Loaf School of English, through which she studied literature at Middlebury College and Oxford University. Learn more at erinjoneswriter.com, or follow her on Instagram @ErinJonesWriter.

Photos

How to find time for romance with a toddler running the house

BY JENNIFER LEE

Special to The News-Post

Sex may be hard to come by, but the romance doesn’t have to take a backseat.

When you have a toddler running the roost, time and attention is devoted to your tiny tornado. So letting your partner know they still have a place in your heart is sometimes forgotten — maybe not forgotten, but stuffed in a pile of laundry, scattered among the array of toys, and buried beneath mounds of diapers.

At the end of the day, regardless of whether you have a tribe to help with the little one(s) or not, “sexy time” becomes a good night’s sleep. But wait a minute. All is not lost. There are ways to stoke that romantic fire throughout the day! Romance may not always lead to business time, but it will lead to deeper intimacy. And isn’t that what we’re all craving most anyway?!

So: How do you spark that romance, when you have a toddler

(or a few) running about?

1. Touch.

Simple touch increases dopamine. Instead of scrolling for your rush, touch your partner. A pat on the back, a shoulder squeeze, a hug or a kiss all lead to that dopamine release. Want a true rush, grab your partner and do-si-do, for a moment. Yes, a quick little waltz around the kitchen will help with the romance. Take your partner and swing into a corner for a quick make-out session. If you haven’t felt it until now, you soon will. Don’t worry, the body doesn’t forget. Touch will get you through the sometimes grueling, tiresome days.

2. Love notes.

Leave sticky notes with affections on them for your partner to find — perhaps an “I love you” on the fridge or a “Damn, you’re sexy!” on the bathroom mirror or a note saying, “I appreciate you” on the coffee pot. Sprinkle these little love notes about the house. You might not see them smile, but they are. We all want to feel loved, appreciated

and reminded we’re still sexy and desirable.

But it goes both ways. Each partner needs to hear these things. It can create a deeper intimacy than even sex. And sprinkling in flirty text messages throughout the day is a recipe for romance. Love notes are like cooking without an elaborate meal plan.

3. Do something without having to be asked to do it.

Doesn’t sound romantic, but it is. Checking off a chore from your partner’s list is incredibly romantic! Sexy, even. It may just create more space at the end of the night for sex — or a simple cuddle or even a good night’s sleep (as parents, there’s nothing sexier than sleep!).

Wash the baby utensils, throw a load of laundry in, sweep up the cereal, take out the trash, fold the clothes, pick up the toys, all without having to be asked. Also making your partner’s lunch for the next day could be an “oh so sexy” romantic gesture (and don’t forget to leave a love note with it).

4. Communicate.

There’s nothing better than being listened to and actually heard. Make time for talking and listening to each other after the little ones are in bed. Even five minutes is better than no minutes of talking and listening. Remember, this goes both ways. Communication is a two-way street, sometimes a long winding road, but communicating your needs and desires or even just blabbering about your day will help you both meet in the middle later on when compromise is most needed. It’s always best to communicate outside of an argument. In the heat of the moment, feelings can get hurt and things are said that can’t be unsaid. Take time to talk each night, no matter how tired you are. Feeling heard sets the tone for romance, because it creates intimacy through feeling safe to share. It opens up space that you otherwise would not have opened.

Partners, you could also try a

(See PARENTS 11)

THE FREDERICK MOM

The Frederick Mom’s recommendations for the weekend of Feb. 14

Activities to do with the kids this weekend, courtesy of The Frederick Mom. Valentines for the Animals

Noon to 6 p.m. Feb. 14

Fountain Rock Nature Center, 8511 Nature Center Place, Walkersville

$5

This Friday, bring the family to Fountain Rock Nature Center to show your love to the Animal Ambassadors that live there! All ages can visit the Nature Center, see everything it has to offer, and make a Valentine’s Day card for a favorite furry or scaly animal. All the supplies will be provided. Register in advance at recreater.com.

Valentines’ Day Parents Night Out

5 to 9 p.m. Feb. 14

HiYa! Karate, 1312 Main St., Mount Airy

$30/child, $20/siblings

Friday night, kids ages 3 to 12 can be dropped off to HiYa! Karate center to enjoy crafts, games and a yummy pizza dinner! Parents and caregivers, don’t miss your chance to enjoy a nice dinner alone. Have yourself a kid-free night while supporting the HiYa! Competition Team. To register, email fundraisingathiyakarate@ gmail.com.

Valentines Glow Night

6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 14

Urban Air Adventure Park, 5830 Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick

Cost varies

Celebrate friendship and fun at Urban Air this Friday evening! It will be everything kids, teen and even parents have come to expect and love from their Friday Night Glow Nights, but this event has a special Valentine’s twist! In addition

to bouncing around, zip lining, dodgeball games and obstacle courses, kids can get creative at a craft station, make a bookmark keepsake, and parade around in fun glow-in-the-dark glasses and necklaces! Regular park admission; no special fee or registration. Drop-in or go to urbanairfrederick.com to buy tickets.

•••

Valentines Party Babysitting Night

6 to 10 p.m. Feb. 14

Teeter Tots Music n Motion, 5500 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick

$50/child, $40/sibling

Inside the Francis Scott Key Mall, you’ll find Teeter Tots hosting a special Valentines drop-off event for kids! Think fun, friends, fitness and food! Parents and caregivers can enjoy a night out, while kids have a special Valentine’s Night in. Little ones will enjoy four hours of party time at Teeter Tot’s gymnasium, including a field trip (walking) to Grasshopper Grove, Frederick’s newest imagination play center, plus pizza, music and crafts. Registration is required at teeter-tots.com.

•••

Family FUN Day

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 15

Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick Free

Families, you’re going to want to come downtown Frederick for this free event! The MET’s FUN Company will host an open house for a day of fun activities for all ages! Check out mini theater workshops, circus activities, a popup book sale by Curious Iguana, arts and crafts, plus storytime. No ticket is required for the Family FUN Day. The same day, at 10:30 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m., families can also buy tickets to see the MET’s next FUN Company children’s theater production of “The Commedia Princess and the Pea.” Show tickets can be purchased at marylandensemble.org. The show runs Feb. 15 through March 9.

Tiffany Mahaney

Teeter Tots Music n Motion will host two events for kids this weekend: Valentines Party Babysitting Night and Valen-Tiny Prom.

Kids Inclusive Valentine’s Day Event

2 to 3 p.m. Feb. 15

Lincoln Elementary Recreation Center, 200 Madison St., Frederick

$6/city resident, $10/non-city resident Join your friends inside the gymnasium at Lincoln Elementary School for this inclusive celebration of friendship! Kids ages 2 to 18 years old can enjoy multiple craft stations, love-themed sing-alongs, plus snacks to accompany all the fun! Price per participant includes one companion. Register at playfrederick.com.

Kids’ Night Out

6 to 9 p.m.

Feb. 15

Frederick Gymnastics Club, 4604

The Maryland Theatre presents Cirque International

Sunday, February 23, 2025 at 2:30 PM

Wedgewood Blvd., Frederick

$40/member child, $50/non-member child

Join FGC for its first Kids Night Out of 2025! On Saturday evening, kids ages 5 to 14 can be dropped off to have a night all to themselves to enjoy the gymnasium, games, obstacle courses, music and a kids movie! Pack your child(ren) their own snack and enjoy a night full of fun! Sibling discounts are available. Register your spot at frederickgymnastics.com.

R.E.A.D with WAGS for Hope 1:30 to 2:30 p.m Feb. 16

C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St, Frederick Free

This Sunday, bring your kids to downtown Frederick’s library and let them read to the sweetest audience yet. Children will have the opportunity to practice their reading skills to patient, lovable dogs that are in the Reading Education Assistance Dogs program with WAGS for Hope. This event is recommended for children in kindergarten to fifth grade.

Valen-Tiny Prom

4 to 6 p.m. Feb. 16

Teeter Tots Music ‘n Motion, 5500 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick $30/child, $25/sibling

If your littlest ones love to get dressed fancy in tutus and tuxedo onesies, then have them come out to Valen-Tiny Prom at Teeter Tots in the FSK Mall this Sunday afternoon! Kids ages 4 months to 6 years can enjoy the gymnasium, pink and red crafts, a Valentines exchange, photo ops, snacks, dancing and Kindermusik! Celebrate the holiday in the cutest way possible! Register at teeter-tots.com.

Tiffany Mahaney is at least a fifth-generation native to Frederick County, and she now proudly raises her own family here. She is the owner of The Frederick Mom on Instagram. Follow her @thefrederickmom.

TIFFANY MAHANEY

FGet (way) out of town for Valentine’s Day

olks, you don’t need to surprise your honey with a romantic trip to Paris, Venice or Rome for Valentine’s Day. Oh no, that’s too expensive anyway. Believe me, you’ll feel right at home at one of these romantic destinations I’ve carefully curated for you right here in the good old U.S.A. When you arrive in one of these dreamy destinations, your significant other will be overcome with emotion. In fact, they won’t look at you the same way again. Plus, some of these towns are so inexpensive to visit, they will actually pay you to come!

I must warn you, though, not all of these towns are large enough to have a romantic bed and breakfast (or running water, for that matter.) But I can assure you, they all have “Welcome to” signs that will be just right for that selfie.

Please note that all these places are real! Only the descriptions have been changed to protect the town leaders and, of course, the innocent. Plus, the real descriptions are lame.

Accident, Maryland

A charming burg in nearby Garrett County. You may want to skip this one, though, if you don’t wish to have one of those kinds of romantic mishaps.

Bangor, Maine

Our northernmost destination (pronounced Bang-er) is snow covered at Valentine’s Day and action-oriented (I mean skiing! C’mon, get your mind out of the gutter!).

Boody, Illinois

This restful, bootylicious heartland community will make you feel like sitting down and taking a load off.

Butternuts, New York

This tiny upstate enclave is named after the tasty squash that is plentiful here (what did you think?). Be advised, you may come away from here with a new nickname, if you play your cards right.

Climax, Georgia

You’ll burst with excitement when visiting this small but satisfying Southern town.

Cockeysville, Maryland

A close-by Maryland destination that specializes in goofy little pet names. Your honey pie will love it!

Conception, Missouri

Like Accident, this one is not for

the faint of heart. Skip this one if you’re not feeling lucky.

Conquest, New York

A delightful upstate borough perfect for the goal-oriented, won’ttake-no-for-an-answer folks. (You know who you are.)

Diamond, California

Now we’re talking. This one is for the big spenders among us, or at least folks who appreciate syrupy pop songs from a ‘70s icon.

Flowers, Mississippi

If you’re not ready for Diamond (and who is?), this is your next best bet.

French Lick, Indiana

Home of NBA legend Larry Bird. Townsfolk will be glad to show you around and provide an oral history.

Fertile, Minnesota

If you’re not going to Accident or Conception, I doubt you’ll go here. But I say take a chance! What could go wrong?

Heart Butte, Montana

I can see you snickering out there, but it’s pronounced Byute. You know, like a lovely, shapely mountain.

Heartwell, Nebraska

This destination sounds nice but I’m sorry to say it’s actually full of cardiologists. I include it here for the over-70 readers.

Hell, Michigan

This is the final, frozen-over destination for those love-on-therocks, can’t-be-saved relationships. Heck, you can even be mayor here for a day if you pay the price.

Honeyville, Utah

Take your honey to this little hamlet in the Mormon state. Be advised: If you’re not married, a church leader might harangue you about going back home.

Hooker, Oklahoma

Maybe not the best choice for a romantic weekend, but I say give it a try. Be sure to take advantage of the welcoming committee found on most street corners. Bring cash and low expectations.

Intercourse, Pennsylvania

Finally! Slip into the most famous romantic getaway on the list. And, because it’s positioned just up the road from us in Frederick, you’ll be thrust into a great time. Trust me.

Love, Arizona

This is what’s it’s all about, right?

Lovers Leap, Cumberland

This nearby attraction beckons lovers to show how much they really care. Perfect for the nothing-to-lose folks just a step ahead of an angry, shotgun-toting father.

Pee Pee Township, Ohio

If Cockeysville is just too cutesy for you, there’s always this

surprisingly tiny community in Ohio that is folded into its southern region. Blink and you could miss it.

Romance, Arkansas

Be sure to visit the world’s largest thesaurus factory in this exciting, joyful, dreamy, starry-eyed, romantic village in the Ozarks.

Roses, Pennsylvania

This burg in the Keystone State is not far from Intercourse. Everyone knows it’s hard to visit Intercourse unless you do Roses first.

Rough and Ready, California

Named after California’s proud gold-mining past (sure it was), lovers here must be open-minded and up for just about anything.

Screamer, Alabama

An obvious choice for you overachievers. But unless you’ve been here before, you’ll marvel at how noisy this town can be, especially on Saturday nights.

Sweet Lips, Tennessee

If Butternuts is not your cup of tea, I wholeheartedly recommend Sweet Lips.

Surprise, New York

There are lots of Surprises in the U.S., but the one in New York was founded by the same folks who settled Conception, Missouri. They got out of there fast.

Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

You can’t get away with anything in this well-named community, so don’t even try.

Valentine, Indiana

Finally, a town worthy of this list that has gone terribly off the tracks. Fun fact: This town was just recently renamed from Greeting Card, Indiana, to honor the handsome agent on the television show “FBI.”

Weiner, Arkansas

Last but not least, this tiny town is pronounced the way you think, and they are damn proud of it. Home to world-famous Chihuahua races and snow birds from Pee Pee Township, Ohio.

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

Iryna Veklich/Getty Images

GARY BENNETT

With a little planning and patience with your partner, romance doesn’t have to suffer after you have a toddler in the house.

PARENTS

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communication notebook, where you write longer letters back and forth to one another instead of talking each night, if schedules are different or it feels more comfortable for sharing. Your partner isn’t a mind reader, so share your way to intimacy.

5. Get away.

Now, if you’re lucky enough to have a trusted tribe to care for your little one(s), schedule a romantic weekend, even if the “getaway” is close to home. Frederick is full of romantic inns and bed and breakfasts, along with fun activities to share some away time to just relax and laugh together. And remember to hold hands.

Romance is really about the small gestures. It’s not necessarily about bouquets of roses or lavish, wine-filled dinners. Romance is

Five tips for helping marriages last and thrive

A COUPLES COUNSELOR ON WHAT MAKES FOR A STRONG, LASTING, HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP

Iwas going to title this article “Five secrets for helping marriages last and thrive,” however when we examine how long-term relationships and marriages succeed, these tips are really no secret. In fact, they are well-known and researched strategies that, most likely, are not given the consideration they deserve. When we think of all of the things we have to get done in a day, rarely is caretaking our partnership on that list.

These tips are a practical guide on how to prioritize your relationship and to love your partner better.

1. KEEP UP THE ROMANCE

As a marriage and family therapist, if I have heard it once, I have heard it 1,000 times: “There is no more romance!”

Romance dies fast after the “I Do’s” are proclaimed. But why? Just because you made it to the altar, doesn’t mean the work is done! Both members of a couple still need to feel loved and valued for marriages to thrive.

“Four Horseman,” which, if present in a couple’s communication, are strong predictors of divorce. These enemies of successful marriages are contempt, criticism, defensiveness and stonewalling.

In other words, how you talk to your spouse when you are having a disagreement can profoundly impact your connection and, therefore, lead to the demise of a marriage. Believe it or not, we can all disagree and argue and still do it without being unkind.

4. LEARN YOUR PARTNER’S LOVE LANGUAGE

In “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts,” author Gary Chapman outlines five ways people feel and express love. He also provides an assessment tool for you and your partner to use to better understand each other’s love languages.

We generally show love the way we experienced it growing up because that is the style of love that we have absorbed as genuine. Oftentimes, it falls flat with your partner because they have a completely different experience of how they received and felt loved. Understanding love languages is an excellent tool to help you and your partner continue to grow together and show up for one another in meaningful ways.

remembering to celebrate each other’s successes. It’s as simple as those “good jobs” and high fives. Romance is what keeps relationships alive and thriving. It isn’t always about the physical act of sex but about showing up for your partner. Touch, love notes and communication are important aspects of any relationship but even more so when toddlers are running around the house. It’s as simple as sneaking that quick second to say, “Hey, I’m thinking of you.” Romance doesn’t have to be scheduled. Spontaneity is fun. And it doesn’t have to always be a long weekend away from the little one(s), because romance is a building up of a strong and long-lasting, even exciting, relationship.

Jennifer Lee is a mother, freelance writer and natural fertility coach.

Love notes, flowers, compliments, dates — these are all ways to show your spouse that you care. The need to feel cared for does not go away just because the commitment has been made. Throughout your marriage, tell your spouse they are beautiful. Tell them they are special.

2. EXPRESS GRATITUDE

So often, my clients will say they don’t need thanks for doing this or that. They believe because you “should” do something, that act doesn’t deserve gratitude. However, both expressing and receiving gratitude can change brain chemistry and improve the connection between two people.

I often ask couples I work with to begin daily gratitude exercises where they express one or two things about their partner for which they are thankful. Both saying and hearing these words are powerful ways to strengthen and keep your bond.

3. CHOOSE YOUR WORDS WISELY

John Gottman, a leader in marriage research, identified what he calls the

5. LOVE THEM ANYWAY

No marriage is without ups and downs, good days and bad days, and days that you are just annoyed by your spouse’s presence. Days and weeks may pass during which you have felt little love or connection from your spouse and don’t feel like expressing any love to them. Do it anyway. Love isn’t conditional. Love them anyway. If you truly believe in your marriage vows, do it anyway.

Each of these tips are strategies to show your partner they are loved and not alone in this world. We get married to have someone by our sides in this roller coaster of life. If we start feeling alone and unloved, resentments build and marriages fall apart. Love your partner, like your partner, and prioritize your partner every day.

Kara Smith is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist who has helped couples to heal and thrive for more than 20 years. She is the owner of Maryland Marriage and Family Therapy Centers with offices in Urbana and Marriottsville.

KARA SMITH

Adobe Stock Image

”Gash” — through Feb. 23, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Sculpture by Jin Lee. 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. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Time Is A Place” — through Feb. 23, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Noelani Jones’ 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. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Emergence” — through Feb. 23, NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St., Frederick. Come out, come up, come forth. Join us as we emerge from winter into a new season, a new light. The varied talents and styles of the NOMA artists will help you break through and see something new. Noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. 240-367-9770 or nomagalleryfrederick.com.

Metro Washington Chapter of the Colored Pencil Society of America Exhibit — through Feb. 23, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. See the beauty and richness of colored pencil as a medium for creating fine art. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine. org.

”Lineage” — through Feb. 23 at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. The artworks in this exhibition are a reflection on the tradition of teaching in the visual arts and how aesthetic ideas and techniques are passed on to successive generations. Lee Newman’s own work will be accompanied by those of his teacher, Robert D’Arista. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. 301-6980656 or delaplaine.org.

A Group Exhibit — through Feb. 23 at EastSide Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. 15 artists with their own unique styles and a range of mediums, including painting, colored pencil, forged steel, glasswork, photography and fabric arts. Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. eastsideartistsgallery.com.

“Memories and Metaphors” — through Feb. 23 at Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. A

“Hidden Fruit of the Vine” runs through Feb. 23 at Links Bridge Vineyards in Thurmont, featuring digital artwork by Allen Hirsh. Shown here, “The Encroaching City,” by Hirsh.

collection of African-American art from across the nation, curated by Eileen Berger, owner of Just Lookin’ Gallery in Hagerstown. Each piece serves as a powerful testament to the resilience, creativity and cultural heritage of the African-American experience, and to foster a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of African-American art. 301-473-7680, bagalleryappointment@ gmail.com, frederickuu.org.

”Winter Warmth” — through Feb. 23, GALLERY 322, 322 N. Market St., Frederick. A celebration of the beauty and tranquility of the winter season. The exhibit features a collection of paintings, sculptures, and assemblage that capture the essence of winter in all its forms.

Open 4 to 7 p.m. Fridays, noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. gallery322.com.

Wine and Art Series Presents “Hidden Fruit of the Vine — Digital Artwork by Allen Hirsh” — through Feb. 28, Links Bridge Vineyard, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. A biophysicist by profession, he comes at his artwork via a very novel process. Starting with a photograph, Hirsh creates impressionistic and abstract images using a massive mathematical program he created. Manipulating both the color and position of each pixel in images of the vineyard allows him to uncover a hidden world of fascinating unanticipated scenes. For this exhibit, he started with photographs taken at Links Bridge Vineyards then transformed them using his unique process. The resulting imagery fasci-

nates the eye as the mind tries to unravel and define the image. Hours 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and by appointment. 301-4662413 or linksbridgevineyards.com.

”Holding Space” — through Feb. 28, Mary Condon Hodgson Gallery at Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Annie Quinlan and J G Orudjev will show work in mixed media in an expanded version of their exhibition which explores the creation of space through process, developing intimate work that elevates vulnerability and tenderness. Both artists involve meditation practice and action as parts of their process, and have found this a point of deep connection in their work. 301-846-2513 or calendar.frederick.edu/event/holding-space.

”Sunflowers & Snow” — through February, Garryowen Irish Pub, 126 Chambersburg St., Gettysburg, Pa. Paintings and prints by Dorothea Barrick. Daily 11 a.m. to midnight. 240-674-9488 or 717-337-2719.

”Moving Forward” — through March 2, Gallery B, 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda. A juried show featuring selected works from CH/Art Inc. members, an active community of artists and artisans centered in Chevy Chase, D.C. Gallery hours and more info at bethesda.org/ bethesda/gallery-b-exhibitions.

Washington County Art Educators Exhibit — through March 4, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Suite 100, Hagerstown. Gallery hours 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Fri-

day, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. 301791-3132 or washingtoncountyarts.com.

”Romancing the Novel” — through March 7, Esther Prangley Rice Gallery, Peterson Hall, McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. A major exhibition exploring romance novels and their cultural impact featuring original cover art, including paintings by James Griffin, Frank Kalan and Gregg Gulbronson, manuscripts, publicity materials, genre history, and fan artwork. In association with McDaniel’s Nora Roberts American Romance Collection, Bowling Green State University’s Browne Popular Culture Library, renowned romance publisher, Harlequin, and Yale University Art Gallery. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. 410857-2592 or mcdaniel.edu.

“Resting in Winter” — through March 9 at the Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg. This solo exhibition by Gaithersburg photographer Timothy Lynch focuses mainly on close-up imagery of nature. “I named the exhibit ‘Resting in Winter’ because, like us, everything needs time to grow,” says Lynch. “I enjoy exploring artistic expression, particularly botanical photography in winter, showcasing wilting plants and fallen leaves that reveal the beauty of decay. In this process, while life diminishes, beauty endures.” 301-258-6394.

”Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy” Honors Art Exhibition — March 13-28, Esther Prangley Rice Gallery, Peterson Hall, McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. Opening reception 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. March 13, gallery talk at 6 p.m. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. 410-857-2592 or mcdaniel.edu.

Kathryn E. Wentz Juried

Undergraduate Exhibition — April 1-11, Esther Prangley Rice Gallery, Peterson Hall, McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. Reception 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 3, awards presentation at 6 p.m.Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. 410857-2592 or mcdaniel.edu.

Senior Capstone Exhibits — April 1525 and April 29-May 9, Esther Prangley Rice Gallery, Peterson Hall, McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. Reception 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., with gallery talk at 6 p.m. April 17 and May 1. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. 410-857-2592 or mcdaniel.edu.

Courtesy photo

Everyday Poetry

Love always has been a mystery to me, and I doubt I’m alone in that. It seems to be THE critical thing in living, the thing we are most required to do. Often romantic, but way deeper, even more fundamental. Love has its own heady mix of elements — joy, gratitude, respect, trust, patience, devotion, humility, work, chemistry, hearts breaking, hearts overflowing. Love is so big, it is the embodiment of God, yet accessed by us peons,

and sometimes it’s more that we can comprehend.

This week, some will share roses, sweet cards full of red hearts, fine chocolates, tender words (poetry?) and deeds. We will wear our hearts on our sleeves.

In any case, I hope we grow better at loving and treasuring ourselves and at finding affection for as many others as we can. And please accept love and a big hug from me.

Sheryl Massaro is a Frederick poet and oil painter. She has authored three books of poetry, all available from amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and, with her art, from sheryl massaro. com. Her poetry is in lower case as a nod to equality, no letter being more important than another.

SHERYL MASSARO

Is Spam ... Love?

BY KARI A. MARTINDALE

Special to The News-Post

My relationship with Spam has been complicated for some time. It sprouted in the ’80s, after I completed a weeklong Appalachian Trail hike with a summer camp in Pennsylvania. I was 12 years old and had just spent five days eating dehydrated food. At the end of the week, a van picked up our filth-caked bodies to return us to camp. En route, we stopped at some roadside picnic tables, and the counselor pulled out a snack: crackers and cans of Spam.

Unlike the previous week’s meals, we didn’t have to add water! I don’t know how much Spam I ate; I sandwiched it between crackers, savored it openfaced, and sporked it into my mouth in all its whatever-that-meat-is glory. When I returned from camp, I asked my mother, “Why don’t we ever eat Spam?”

My mother looked at me as if I were off my rocker. She bought some, but did not give me any until I had been eating real food again for a while. Then one day she fed me that infamous Hormel Foods product whose name is a portmanteau of spiced ham.

I took a bite. She saw my face and said, “That’s why.”

She wasn’t wrong, and I didn’t touch the stuff for another few decades. And yet, when I was on my first cross-country roadtrip with my then-fiancé, Paul, and I saw a sign for the Spam Museum, I became very excited and insisted that we stop. But as we approached the city of Austin, Minnesota, where Hormel Foods is headquartered, Paul learned that we would need to turn off the highway. Adverse to straying far from the highway if a destination couldn’t be seen from the road, he vetoed the detour.

Deflated, I closed my eyes and sulked. Eventually, I felt a rumble as Paul exited the highway — I assumed for a gas station stop. When I opened my eyes and noticed a sign for the Spam Museum, I smacked his shoulder. “Paul, the Spam Museum is ahead!”

That’s why he’d gotten off at the exit. He loved me — he really loved me!

Confident in my choice of betrothal, I entered the Spam Museum and we were given our official tour guide, titled “A Recipe for Knowledge.” After pausing for a photograph with the replica pork wagon filled with containers of lard, we made our way through 19 stops, including The Provisions Market,

Kari Martindale revisits the Spam Museum at its newer location.

statues of founder George A. Hormel and his son Jay, World War II Spamville, and the Hormel Girls (they once had their own TV show!). And what would a Spam Museum be without a Monty Python exhibit?

The Spam Marketing station is where we came across the jingle that would test our relationship. The jingle of jingles, the catchiest of catchy: “Spam, Spam, Spam, Spam … Hormel’s new miracle meat in a can …”

If you’re old enough to recall the

cinematic echolalia of “Rain Man” repeating a radio station jingle — “97X, Bam! The future of Rock and Roll … 97X, Bam! The future of Rock and Roll” — then you can imagine Paul’s pain as I be-bopped across Minnesota, and then South Dakota, and then Wyoming, and then Utah, singing a Spam advertisement on continual loop.

We bought matching Spam T-shirts on that trip. You couldn’t miss us in our bright yellow shirts with Spam in large blue letters across the front. What a

beautiful couple we made. I learned during that trip that Paul had grown up occasionally eating Spam. It was one of the only things his father knew how to cook, so when his mother traveled to visit family, his father cooked Spam for him and his brothers.

He related his father’s specialties, which were all variations of Spam and eggs: sliced Spam and eggs, Spam chopped in eggs, and Spam and egg sandwiches. (For variety, they occasionally ate Spam and cheese sandwiches without eggs.) For Paul, Spam has become a loving memory, growing fonder by the year. I’m no stranger to unpopular pork products. As a native of Philadelphia, I could eat a brick of fried scrapple for breakfast every day and never grow tired of it. My husband can’t stand the stuff unless it’s fried to an unrecognizable crisp.

While engaged, Kari Martindale and her fiance, Paul,

Photos by Kari Martindale

I feel even more strongly about his favorite canned breakfast meat, corned beef hash.

To each his own questionable meat,

In 2023, I took a cross-country road trip, and for the eastbound half, I was accompanied by my mother, who still does not like Spam.

But since our northern route would take us right by the Spam Museum, I convinced her that we must

The museum had moved into a new building and updated its exhibitions. Sadly, the marketing jingle was gone, but the museum was still as fun and interactive as ever. I wouldn’t say my mother enjoyed it, but she humored me — a mother’s love?

A large section of the Spam museum is dedicated to the meat’s role in military history. In World War II, Spam was a dietary staple of U.S. troops. Hormel

Foods reports “shipping up to 15 million cans of meat per week overseas, most of which was the iconic Spam brand … the equivalent of over 133 million cans of Spam products fed hungry soldiers and civilians overseas between 1940 and 1945.”

I returned home with new yellow Spam T-shirts, along with matching plaid Spam pajama pants — for myself, my husband and now my daughter, Sequoia. I had to spread the love.

In 2024, I again found myself along the route to the Spam Museum, this time with Paul, Sequoia and Sequoia’s BFF, Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn was excited for cheesy roadside stops, including the Spam Museum. Paul, who could have lived only visiting the Spam Museum once in his lifetime, was willing to stop since, well, since he loves me.

Paul and I wandered the updated Spam Museum together. One exhibition highlights couples who have gotten engaged or married at the Spam Museum or in other Spam-related

fashion. On Youtube, Hormel features “Wedding Bells at the Spam Museum,” a video about the first “Spam-brand wedding.” People love Spam, and Spam loves people back.

This time, my daughter left with a souvenir sticker, which she placed on the car she drove to college.

During her Christmas break, my husband and I made Spam and eggs for breakfast. Her friend Kayla had slept over. In the past, Kayla had tried Spam musubi, a type of sushi consisting of Spam, rice and seaweed, and she enjoyed it, so she was game to try Spam and eggs for breakfast. Because I myself hadn’t eaten Spam in decades, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

To add a little love to the dish, I used heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut holes in each slice, so we could fry the egg inside the Spam.

Sequoia sniffed her plate. “It smells like meat.”

She took a bite. “It tastes like meat … if I didn’t know what meat tastes like.”

She and Kayla were struck by how salty it tasted. They only had a bite or two. Sequoia was satisfied with having tried it. “Now when people ask about my bumper sticker, I don’t have to admit I’ve never tried Spam.”

Despite my skepticism pre-meal, I ate my Spam and then finished Sequoia and Kayla’s. Paul finished his, too, but that came as no surprise since he was experienced in eating Spam and eggs.

My husband and I have been married for more than 20 years now. Marriage is a perpetual series of compromises, which for Paul has meant not one but two visits to the Spam Museum. He’ll never like scrapple, and I’ll never join him in eating corned beef hash, but we’ll always have Spam.

Kari Martindale is a poet, spoken word artist and teaching artist who has read at arts guilds across Maryland and performed at the White House. A road-tripper at heart, she has visited all 50 states and more than 40 countries.

Paul, visited the original Spam Museum in 2002. Below: Spam and eggs.

Kaitlyn Bell, of Ijamsville, measures her height in Spam cans at the Spam Museum in 2024.

Westminster exhibition explores cultural impact of romance novels

BY ROCCO GEPPI

Special to The News-Post

McDaniel College’s Esther Prangley Rice Gallery has been transformed into a celebration of love, culture and art with the opening of “Romancing the Novel,” a significant exhibition exploring romance novels and their sweeping cultural impact.

The showcase, free and open to the public, runs through March 7 and highlights the popularity and artistic interpretation of romance literature.

Curated by Robert Lemieux, associate professor of communication and cinema at McDaniel, “Romancing the Novel” features an array of materials, including original cover art, manuscripts, publicity materials and fan-created works. The exhibition delves into the genre’s 80-year history, providing insight into the publishing industry’s most profitable literary form.

Collaborating institutions include McDaniel’s Nora Roberts American Romance Collection, Bowling Green State University’s Browne Popular Culture Library, romance publisher Harlequin, and Yale University Art Gallery.

Among the exhibition’s standout pieces are cover paintings by celebrated artists James Griffin, Frank Kalan and Gregg Gulbronson. Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to view Roy Lichtenstein’s iconic lithograph “Crying Girl,” on loan from Yale University Art Gallery.

Lemieux said the Lichtenstein piece was chosen as a way to connect the romance genre to the Pop Art movement of the 1960s.

“Much of Lichtenstein’s art during that period borrowed heavily from romance comic books,” Lemieux said.

Of the Griffin and Gulbronson pieces, Lemieux points to their more than 30-year careers as cover artists, which include the oil painting era of the 1970s to ’80s and the contemporary digital era of today. Kalan’s work is part of the exhibition because he “was one of the early artists of the classic oil era,” Lemieux said. In addition to their paintings, the show also includes preliminary sketches and model shoots, both of which are part of the

cover design process.

Lemieux, known for organizing exhibitions that explore cultural phenomena, outlined the show’s comprehensive scope: “With an emphasis on original cover art, the writing process, notable authors, publicity materials, fan interaction and genre history, the exhibit provides a wide-ranging view of the publishing industry’s most profitable genre — romance — and its influence over the past 80 years.”

It seemed fitting, Lemieux said, “to create an exhibit that highlights the [romance genre’s] cultural and historical impact, especially since the genre is considered the most profitable genre in publishing,” and to install it at McDaniel College, home of the Nora Roberts Amer-

ican Romance Collection.

While romance novels have existed since the 1700s, the genre, Lemieux explains, really rose to prominence in the 1900s.

“In the 1970s, Harlequin Publishing began mass marketing the books and making them available at grocery store checkout counters,” he said. “At this point [nowadays], it’s an industry with a considerable footprint and extensive fan base.”

McDaniel College has partnered with Carroll County Public Library to present a “Romancing the Novel” speaker series throughout February, enhancing the exploration of the romance genre.

One highlight of the series will be a lecture by historian Nicole Jackson, a professor

at Bowling Green State University and co-host of the “Black Romance Has A History” podcast. Her presentation, “Love in Liberty: Black Historical Romances and the Joy of Freedom,” is set for 6 p.m. Feb. 27 in Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall. Additional speaker series events will be announced.

“I agreed to be part of this series … to highlight the contributions and communities of Black authors and readers in shaping the romance genre,” Jackson said.

IF YOU GO

battle over the last 30 or so years about the ‘history’ in historical romance — whose stories deserve to be told, what is historical accuracy, etc.,” Jackson said.

“My [presentation] uses three Black historical romance novels … to consider how … Black authors reshaped historical romance novel conventions to tell stories of Black love, freedom [from slavery] and social transformation in the 19th century.”

“Romancing the Novel,” a major exhibition exploring romance novels and their cultural impact runs through March 7 at the McDaniel College Esther Prangley Rice Gallery, 2 College Hill, Westminster. The exhibition features original cover art, manuscripts, publicity materials, genre history and fan artwork. Visiting hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.

Along with co-host Steve Ammidown, Jackson discusses the history of Black romance on their podcast. In their first season, Ammidown and Jackson discussed “The Summer of Black Love,” when several Black romance novels were published for the first time in 1994, launching the careers of some of the most beloved Black romance authors, such as Beverly Jenkins and Eboni Snoe.

Jackson said this mid-1990s event shaped the reading experiences and careers of authors like Nicole Falls and Piper Huguley. It was also one of the reasons she and Ammidown established their podcast.

“This podcast emerged from the erasure of Black authors and Black romance [defined as a book where the author and main characters are all Black] in accounts of romance history,” Jackson said. “This erasure has persisted both in the scholarly research and the popular conversations … about romance. Too often, we imagine romance as a majority white genre where racial diversity is new and novel, but that’s inaccurate.”

Jackson says her presentation on Feb. 27 will cover how historical romance has diminished in the publishing world in recent years, and she will discuss how Black authors have reshaped the genre.

“There has been a persistent

“Romancing the Novel” is the sixth exhibition curated by Lemieux to examine the artistic and historical significance of major cultural influences. Past exhibitions include “Kings of the Pages: Comic Strips & Culture 1895-1950” in 2011, “Beyond Words: The Artistry of Illustrated Children’s Books” in 2014 and “Icons of American Animation” in 2022. The exhibition benefits from the expertise of Pamela Regis, professor of English Emerita at McDaniel College and author of “A Natural History of the Romance Novel.” Regis, a former director of the college’s Nora Roberts Center for American Romance and past president of the International Association for the Study of Popular Romance, served as a consultant for the project.

“Pam Regis is one of the foremost romance scholars, and she provided valuable input on the themes and content associated with each theme,” Lemieux said. “She was also instrumental in providing historical context.”

Rocco Geppi is a freelance writer, having earned his professional journalist credentials in his late teens, and has made a career out of his passion. He enjoys connecting with people, bringing communities together, and highlighting what makes the people and the community uniquely invaluable.

Courtesy photo

“Romancing the Novel” explores romance novels and their cultural impact.

‘Heart Eyes’: A rom-com slasher to steal the hearts of Cupid haters

BY JEN YAMATO

The Washington Post

In the winking rom-com slasher “Heart Eyes,” a serial murderer in a mask that resembles a demented emoji thrives on offing lovebirds in brutal, punny fashion. Take one look at the obnoxious duo whose staged proposal sets the scene for the film’s opening massacre and you can’t blame the killer for pouncing from the bushes, crossbow in hand, with aim more lethal than Cupid’s: Valentine’s Day may be for lovers, but hell is other people’s PDA.

Yet in the annals of holiday-themed horror, only a few titles — including the 1981 Canadian cult pic “My Bloody Valentine,” its mostly forgotten 3D remake and 2001’s bland “Valentine” — have taken stabs at love’s big day. And none have had as much fun turning meet-cutes into meat-grinding carnage as director Josh Ruben (“Werewolves Within”) does here with sly, satirical glee. It’s V-Day and Seattle is in a panic over the infamous “Heart Eyes Killer,” a maniac who surfaces each Feb. 14 to slice and dice happy couples. Jaded ad exec Ally (Olivia Holt), still reeling from a bad breakup, is more worried about the campaign she just bungled than the psycho on the loose — until a platonic dinner with handsome, perfect-on-paper marketing fixer Jay (Mason Gooding) leads to an impulsive fake kiss in front of her ex, and the undeniable attraction between the workplace rivals lands them at the top of the killer’s todie list.

It’s a case of mistaken identity, as Ally and Jay hilariously protest to their machete-swinging stalker that they’re not a real couple. Everyone else around them is just as confused by the riddle of modern love and dating, Tinder swiping and true love, including Ally’s brash sugar baby BFF (scene-stealer Gigi Zumbado), her Miranda Priestly-esque bosszilla (Michaela Watkins, camping it up to the rafters) and the two self-absorbed detectives (Devon Sawa and Jordana Brewster, who understood the assignment, and whose character names are the wackiest joke in the whole film) investigating the latest serial killings.

Directing this lively date night slash’em-up from a playfully self-reflexive script by Phillip Murphy, Christopher Landon (“Happy Death Day”) and Michael Kennedy (“Freaky”), Ruben wields the conventions of rom-coms and retro slashers like weapons, spilling blood

and guts galore while also setting the mood for love. As the tropes pile up faster than tears in a Nicholas Sparks novel, so do the bodies, dispatched in increasingly inventive and grisly ways.

The filmmaker finds impish humor in turning textbook romantic settings into crime scenes, from a botanical garden and carousel bathed in moonlight to a candle-filled church and a drive-in playing “His Girl Friday,” where a heart-

to-heart in a van occupied by two horny hippies is the prelude to the film’s cleverest, and naughtiest, kill. “Heart Eyes” throws in a few red herrings, taking advantage of how fluidly rom-com and horror clichés can be exchanged to subvert expectations, a sinister ambiguity that Gooding (“Scream,” “Scream VI”) plays devilishly well.

He and Holt, with their sweet, sizzling chemistry, could easily star in any run-

of-the-mill studio rom-com. Instead they have fun here riding out the script’s wild tonal swings, grounding the plot in earnest emotion — and relatable emotional baggage — as scenes veer from sappy to suspenseful, edited with zippy precision by Brett W. Bachman. Less subtle is Jay Wadley’s overly emphatic score of blaring horns, screeching strings and soft plinking pianos that telegraph each vibe shift, but the vibrant stylization of cinematographer Stephen Murphy’s lensing manages to visually tie the two heightened modes of “Heart Eyes” together.

It’s too bad the titular killer, a hulking Jason Voorhees type whose mask glows red with night vision hearts for eyes, isn’t much more than a poster-ready gimmick designed for easy franchise building, a thin pastiche of other slasher villains that lacks a substantial mythology of its own. In the inevitability of a “Heart Eyes 2,” here’s hoping someone comes up with a better reason for the season. Rated R. Contains bloody violence, gore, language, sex and intimacy issues. 97 minutes.

Photos by Christopher Moss/Screen Gems/Spyglass Media Group

Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding star in Screen Gems and Spyglass Media Group’s “Heart Eyes.”

The Heart Eyes killer

Supplies

BREAKFAST BUFFET

New Midway Vol Fire Co

Sunday February 23, 2025

Serving: 7:00 am – 12:00 Noon

Pancakes, Scrambled Eggs Sausage, Potatoes Puddin, Hominy

Sausage Gravy, Spiced Apples

Orange Juice, Coffee Adults: $14 00

Children 5-10: $7 00 Under 5: Free Credit Cards Accepted

Buckeystown United Methodist Church is hosting its ANNUAL PANCAKE SUPPER on Tuesday March 4th from 5:00 - 7:00 PM

Come enjoy plain and blueberry pancakes, country sausage, bacon, biscuits & gravy, eggs and drinks This event is free, and we will accept donations that will support our building maintenance and missions https://buckeystownumc org/ 3440 Buckeystown Pike, Buckeystown, MD 21217

COUNTRY BREAKFAST

Sat. Feb. 15 • 6:30a-10:30a Petersville Farmers and Ruritan Clubs Adults: $12 00 Child: $6 00 Farmers Woods, Rte 79 3816 Petersville Rd.

DRIVE-THRU

DINNER AND BAKE SALE

Saturday Feb 22, 2025

FROM 11 AM - 3 PM

St John's Lutheran Church Creagerstown, MD 8619 Black's Mill Road

Fried Chicken, Green Beans, Pepper Slaw, Biscuit and Piece of Cake for $15 Buckets of chicken will be available as follows: 8pc: $10, 12pc: $15, 16pc: $20

Vegetables: $4/Pint; $7/Quart Pre-Orders due by 2/16

Please call Carmi Sayler @ 301-401-0633 OR text 240-529-7471 with your name, phone number and order.

FIREWOOD BLOWOUT

$250 a cord, delivered 301-748-5466

SPORTSMAN’S BINGO

SATURDAY, March 8, 2025

DOORS OPEN 5:00, BUFFET 6:00

GAMES BEGIN 7:30

NEW MIDWAY VOL FIRE CO

20 Games (10 Games paying $200 Cash, 10 Games for Guns), 50/50, Money Jars, Gun Jars

$40/Person includes Buffet Dinner

Tickets: Buddy 301-271-4650 or Nick 301898-7985

GAMING MONITOR PC & keyboard, $700, 301-898-5203

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CAVALIER KING CHARLES

AKC, 10wks, M/F, Tri-Color, $700, Libertytown, Call/Text 301-639-2375

CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES

Apple head males born jan5 two Merle’s one chocolate parents weight less then 5lbs both on premises 1500 2407278489 Beverlyflohr@ymail

Roofing it right the first time

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Insured Stefan Mach, Owner (301) 788-3061 frederickroofrepair.com MHIC#85927 hire your local

LIQUOR COLLECTOR

Searching for SEALED/UNOPENED liquor bottles, older the better! Payment in CASH! Christopher Text/Call 443-244-2084

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Thursday Feb. 13

CLASSES

Adult Digital Learning at the Thurmont Senior Center — 10 a.m. to noon at Thurmont Senior Center, 806 E. Main St., Thurmont. Need help with your devices, or would you like to discover the basics of browsing the web, setting up an email or writing a resume? We are here to help. Laptops provided. Join us at the Thurmont Senior Center this month. Want to know more? Discover free online learning to help you achieve personal and professional goals through the fcpl.org/learn databases. 301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Flow & Go Yoga — 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Center. Frederick., 28 E. Sixth St., Frederick. This class focuses on balance, including balance poses. An energizing flow practice that includes asana, breath control, and ending with a body scan. All levels welcome. Pre-register, ages 18 and older. $18. 301-305-0693. parkerpsyd@gmail.com. thecenterfrederick.com.

Tween Time: Felt Stuffies — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Create a felt stuffy to keep or gift to a friend! The program is for tweens in 3rd through 8th grades (ages 8-13). 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

February Collage Club: Loving Ourselves and Others — 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Sharon Blackborow, 122 E. Patrick St., Frederick. A fun and creative evening of collage making. Using the practices of SoulCollage, we will explore self-love and our love for others. No experience necessary, just bring your creativity and an open mind. We’ll provide all the materials you need to create your own unique SoulCollage, create community and enjoy a fun and inspiring atmosphere. $45. 301-923-1770. sblackborow@blackborowcoaching.com.

ReWIND Wellness Series Program for Adults — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Zohreh Rezazadeh, 2494 Bear Den Road, Frederick. UNESCO Body and Mind Wellness is going to have basic, intermediate and advance wellness sessions for your own upliftment based on a unique meditation method. 18 and older.

240-446-1658. unescobmw@gmail.com.

ETCETERA

Senior Cafe: The Place to Come for Coffee, Conversation, Friendship and Fun Events: Found Poetry — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 South Glade

Road, Walkersville. Come get in the Valentine’s Day spirit by learning about found poetry! You can even give it a try using recycled library books. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

Fall in Love with Transit! — 2:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at The Common Market, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. We’ll teach you how to read the schedule and how to use Google Transit to plan your trip. Join Transit Services of Frederick County and the Common Market for a quick and informal travel training session. We’ll learn about Google Maps to plan trips and we’ll hop onboard the 60 Connector right outside The Common Market. We’ll ride down to the Transit Center and transfer to the 61 Connector, returning to the Common Market shortly after. We will start by sipping hot chocolate in the Community Room next to our Cafe! 301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop.

Thirsty Thursday — 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Frederick Eagles, 207 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Domestic beers are just $3.15, non-domestics are $4.35, and wings are a steal at 94 cents each. And if you’re a member, you get an extra 20% off! Can’t beat that! 301-663-6281.

FrederickAerie1067@gmail.com.

Galentine’s Night w/ Karaoke by BlackEyed Suzy — 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. “What’s Galentine’s day? Oh it’s only the best day of the year!” Grab all of your friends for a Galentine’s bash. An epic fun night with games and drink specials AND karaoke. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill karaoke! Wear your pink or red and get 10 percent off pints! Karaoke starts at 7 p.m, party starts at 6 p.m. 240-575-9755. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.

Paws 2 Read with Go Team Therapy Dogs — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join Go Team Therapy Dogs to improve your reading confidence and make a new friend when you read aloud to a therapy dog. All ages. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

FAMILY

Musical Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Music, movement, stories and more. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Elementary Explorers: Heart Art — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Participate in a variety of experiences related to science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. This program is ideal for children in homeschool programs and activities in grades K through 5. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Pajama Storytime — 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Join us every Thursday Night at 6 p.m.! Enjoy music, stories, and more! Designed for ages up to 5 with a caregiver. 301-600-6329. fcpl.org.

Paws 2 Read with Go Team Therapy Dogs — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join Go Team Therapy Dogs to improve your reading confidence and make a new friend when you read aloud to a therapy dog. All ages. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

Disney on Ice Presents “Mickey’s Search Party” — 7 p.m. at CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore. Bringing the magic to guests through dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air.  This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey. Continues through Feb. 17. 410-243-1333. mmiles@weinbergharris.com. disneyonice.com.

GALLERY

Metro Washington Chapter of the Colored Pencil Society of America Exhibit — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. “The Power of Color,” through Feb. 23 301-698-0656. jclark@delaplaine.org. delaplaine.org/exhibitions. “Lineage” — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Prints and paintings by Robert D’Arista & Lee Newman. Through Feb. 23. The artworks in this exhibition are a reflection on the tradition of teaching in the visual arts and how aesthetic ideas and techniques are passed on to successive generations. Lee Newman’s own work will be accompanied by those of his teacher, Robert D’Arista. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays.

301-698-0656. jclark@delaplaine.org. delaplaine.org/exhibitions.

MUSIC

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older. 301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

“There Arises Light (in the Darkness)” by Barron Ryan Trio — 7:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Experience love amidst grief with “There Arises Light in the Darkness” by pianist and composer Barron Ryan. Commemorating the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, Barron, a lifelong Tulsan, seeks to infuse beauty into the memory of this tragic event. Through a new composition for violin, cello and piano, he captures the journey from struggle to triumph. Join Barron, Christopher Whitley on violin, and Alex Cox on cello for an evening of soul-stirring music.

$38, $32, $26. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ barron-ryan-trio.

PERFORMER

Live Comedy Show - 2 National Comics — 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. Adam Richmond is an international, comedic sensation. $20. 304-876-3704. Contact@OperaHouseLive.com.

THEATER

“The Beauty Queen of Leenane” — 8 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. In this intimate and pitch-black comedy from Martin McDonagh (author of “The Lieutenant of Inishmore”), 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?

$7-$36. 301-694-4744. marylandensemble.org/ the-beauty-queen-of-leenane.

Friday Feb. 14

ETCETERA

Program for Adults with Developmental Disabilities — 11 a.m. to noon at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Make a Valentine’s Day card for a friend or a loved one. We invite all adults with developmental disabilities to join us for this fun, creative event. 18 and older. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Valentine’s Day at Ceresville Mansion: A Curated 5-Course Culinary Experience — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Ceresville Mansion, 8529 Liberty Road, Frederick. Celebrate love in timeless elegance. Indulge in an unforgettable evening of romance with a specially curated 5-course dinner, each dish thoughtfully crafted to delight your senses. One ticket is for two people. Complement your dining experience with table-side wine service, included with your reservation. Reservations required. 21 and older. $250. 301-694-5111. darina@ceresville.com.

FAMILY

Disney on Ice Presents “Mickey’s Search Party” — 7 p.m. at CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore. Bringing the magic to guests through dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air.  This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey. Continues through Feb. 17. 410-243-1333. mmiles@weinbergharris.com. disneyonice.com/mickeys-search-party/ baltimore-md-cfg-bank-arena.

MUSIC

Bluegrass Jam — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Mount Pleasant Ruritan, 8101 Crum Road, Walkersville. Open to all levels of acoustic musicians and vocalists. Spectators, families welcome. Sandwiches, snacks and sodas available for purchase. No smoking or swearing. $5 donation at the door requested. 301-788-5570. 301-898-3719. trevella@comcast.net. mtpleasantruritan.com.

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Every Friday in the Cocktail Lab we’ll be servin’ up our deliciously wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right. 21 and older. 301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

THEATER

Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. 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. Brimming with intrigue, sophisticated humor, and surprising twists, “The Mousetrap” is one of Agatha Christie’s most iconic murder mysteries. Friday and Saturday evenings and

BY

matinees on the first, third and fifth Sunday, through March 1. Tickets vary. 301-662-6600. WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“Mythos of a Lost Nightmare” — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Red Hill Theatre Group’s upcoming world premiere production, written by Cody James. In a small middle Appalachian town lives Esther, an artist in their 20s who just wants to live a peaceful life in their little corner of the world. The catch: their family struggles to understand their art, their leisurely approach to life and, most importantly, their identity as a nonbinary person. They’re not hated or suppressed, just met with a consistent and annoying confusion. As a result, Esther spends their spare time venturing into nature, trying to escape the constant stress of living. That is, until one day Esther finds an abandoned building occupied by a creature that will come to change their life forever.

$10. codythejames@gmail.com. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ mythos-of-a-lost-nightmare.

“The Beauty Queen of Leenane” — 8 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. In this intimate and pitch-black comedy from Martin McDonagh (author of “The Lieutenant of Inishmore”), 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?

$7-$36. 301-694-4744. marylandensemble.org/ the-beauty-queen-of-leenane.

That’s What She Said: Valentine’s Show — 8:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Come celebrate Valentine’s Day with your favorite funny ladies! That’s What She Said is an all-female improv team. Specializing in long-form improv, these ladies spin you a hilarious story. $15. 301-694-4744.

Saturday Feb. 15 CLASSES

Stop The Bleed — 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue , 200 W. Potomac St., Brunswick. Take an hour to learn to save a life. Free Stop The Bleed Class. Registration is required. Visit website for more details and to register. Co19stb@gmail.com. bvar19.org.

Yoga On Tap — 10 a.m. at Frederick Social, 50 Citizen’s Way, Frederick . Donation based, all levels Flow. Rejuvenate with a cold beverage and food after yoga and receive 10% off your tab! Register at https://linktr. ee/jenuineyogi. Free. 240-626-6639. Jenuineyogi@gmail.com.

Adult Crafternoon: Embroidered Felt Pouches — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Make an embroidered felt pouch with help from a local crafter! You can also bring your

REBECCA L. BYARS AND LANE RIOSLEY FEB 15 – MAR 9

own project to work on and enjoy spending time with like-minded people in the community. 18 and older. eschenkelberg@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Maryland Writers Association Ekphrastic Poetry Workshop — 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Urbana. Ekphrasis (noun): the use of detailed description of a work of visual art as a literary device. Whether you’d like to try ekphrasis for the first time or you’re looking to build your skills, join artist Nicole Abuhamada for this hands-on writing workshop. Leave with a draft or two of your own. 301-600-7000.

ETCETERA

Fort Ritchie Community Center February Indoor Yard Sale — 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fort Ritchie Community Center, 14421 Lake Royer Drive, Cascade . Over 60 yard sale spaces are filled with yard sale items, flea market items. Food will also be available for purchase. Sale is from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Held indoors.

301-241-5085. bcoyle@thefrcc.org. theFRCC.org.

Myersville Indoor Farmers Market — 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Myersville Fire Co. Banquet Hall, 301 Main St., Myersville. Held on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Shop local, enjoy fresh and high-quality products, and support the sustainability of the region’s agriculture and economy. Shoppers can expect a diverse array of offerings, including seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, eggs, handmade crafts, and other unique items.

301-524-1035. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

The Frederick Record Riot & Pop Culture Mart! — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, Building 13, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Vinyl records! DIY! Oddities! T-shirts! Over 45 tables of LPs, CDs, T-shirts, vintage beer cans, local artwork and more. Classic rock, punk, funk, hip hop, disco, country, everything. Early admission starting at 9 a.m. ($15).

$5. 609-468-0885. recordriots@gmail.com. recordriots.com/frederick-md.

FAMILY

Family FUN Day — 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Full day of free family fun activities including mini theater workshops, story time, circus activities, Curious Iguana’s pop up book sale, arts and crafts, guest appearances. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/ family-fun-day-2025.

Disney on Ice Presents “Mickey’s Search Party” — 10:30 a.m. at CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore. Bringing the magic to guests through dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air.  This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey. Continues through Feb. 17.

410-243-1333. mmiles@weinbergharris.com. disneyonice.com/mickeys-search-party/ baltimore-md-cfg-bank-arena.

Special Storytime: Books With a Bunny — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Join Jenn from Jenn’s Uncommon Critters for a special rabbit-themed storytime featuring a real live bunny! This program is designed for children ages up to 5. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

The Commedia Princess and the Pea — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Arlequin is afraid he’ll be stuck playing the role of the pea, but he ends up getting to play the prince. The troupe romps through a series of hilarious princess tests with great slapstick humor! A Fairy Godmother in this story? Rosetta’s playing the role, whether the troupe likes it or not!

$7-$20. 301-694-4744. marylandensemble.org/ the-commedia-princess-and-the-pea.

Family Storytime — 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Stories, movement, music and fun for the entire family. Designed for kids, with a caregiver.   301-600-7200. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Family Storytime — 11 a.m. to noon at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Stories, movement, music, and fun for the entire family. 301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

The Commedia Princess and the Pea — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Arlequin is afraid he’ll be stuck playing the role of the pea, but he ends up getting to play the prince. The troupe romps through a series of hilarious princess tests with great slapstick humor! A Fairy Godmother in this story? Rosetta’s playing the role, whether the troupe likes it or not!

$7-$20. 301-694-4744. marylandensemble.org/ the-commedia-princess-and-the-pea.

Symphony Saturdays: Brass — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at The C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Through fun, handson demonstrations led by musicians in the Maryland Symphony Orchestra, each free session aims to introduce an instrument family followed by an instrument-related activity. Elementary-aged children are welcome. Save future Symphony Saturdays, each held at C. Burr Artz Public Library at 2 p.m.: Woodwinds on Feb. 22. fcpl.org.

Northern Lights Chalk Art — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Become an artist! Create your own version of the Northern Lights using chalk pastels! Ages 5-12. 301-600-6329.

Disney on Ice Presents “Mickey’s Search Party” — 2:30 and 6:30 p.m. at CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore. Bringing the magic to guests through

dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air.  This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey. Continues through Feb. 17. 410-243-1333. mmiles@weinbergharris.com. disneyonice.com/mickeys-search-party/ baltimore-md-cfg-bank-arena.

FESTIVALS

Frederick City Hyper Local Brew Fest ‘25 — noon to 7 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get ready for the ultimate local beer festival, where we’ll come together as a community to celebrate and support our awesome Frederick breweries including Rockwell, Olde Mother, RAK, Idiom, Midnight Run and Monocacy. Live music: Let There Be Rock School; Headliner Band TBA. Food trucks, vendors. $8 ages 21 and older pre-sale, $12 at the gate; $5 ages 18-20 pre-sale, $10 at the gate; ages 17 and under free. 240-5759755. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.

Ringing in the Year of the Snake — 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Frederick Community College, JBK Theater, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Celebrate the joy of the Lunar New Year! Join us for festivities and experience traditions and culture during this exciting time of the year! All ages. 301-694-3355. esedita@aacfmd.org.

MUSIC

Celtic Harp Trio — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at MIddletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Enjoy the beautiful music of the Celtic harp, violin and flute. 301-600-7560. lgrackin@frederickcountymd.gov. fcpl.org/calendar.

MSO in Concert: Florence Price’s Symphony No. 3 — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Elizabeth Schulze, conductor; Chaeyoung Park, piano. Experience a concert filled with musical diversity as the orchestra spotlights a rich array of compositions. The program begins with the genius of Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel, featuring the Overture in C Major, and sets the stage for an exploration of groundbreaking works by female composers. $40. 240-382-2623. nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org. marylandsymphony.org.

Scythian — 8 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Rousing and raucous, Scythian (sith-ee-yin) plays roots music from Celtic, Eastern European and Appalachian traditions with thunderous energy, technical prowess, and storytelling songwriting, beckoning crowds into a barndance, rock concert experience. $35, $30, $25. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/scythian-2025.

OUTDOORS

Birdwatching Walk — 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Windy Ridge Park, Prospect Rd, Mount Airy. An enlightening bird watching walk where you’ll discover the art of identifying bird species by their unique flight patterns. Whether

you are a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, come practice your birdwatching skills and deepen your appreciation for our feathered friends. Hosted by Town of Mount Airy. RSVP by email. 301-829-1424, ext. 135. parksmanager@mountairymd.gov.

THEATER

Dance Unlimited Showcase — 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. at Dance Unlimited, 244 B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Second showcase at 6:30 p.m. Join Dance Unlimited as they present an in studio showcase featuring performances by a variety of dance and acting students in all genres of dance. Presented in our state-of-the-art, 115 seat black box theater. $15. 301-662-3722. office@performingartsfactory.com.

Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. 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. Brimming with intrigue, sophisticated humor, and surprising twists, “The Mousetrap” is one of Agatha Christie’s most iconic murder mysteries. Friday and Saturday evenings and matinees on the first, third and fifth Sunday, through March 1. Tickets vary. 301-662-6600. WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“Midnight at the Masquerade” - A Murder Mystery — 7 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Attend the Billionaires Club Annual Masquerade Ball and help get this soiree back on track by trading clues with your guests, gathering information, and solving the crime before the masked menace gets away! Costumes are encouraged for this high-class night of masks and murder. It is up to you to determine which partygoer is guilty, bring this crime to justice, and save the party! Ages 16 and older.

$44. 301-790-3500.

boxoffice@mdtheatre.org. mdtheatre.org/midnight-masquerade.

“Mythos of a Lost Nightmare” — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Red Hill Theatre Group’s upcoming world premiere production, written by Cody James. In a small middle Appalachian town lives Esther, an artist in their 20s who just wants to live a peaceful life in their little corner of the world. The catch: their family struggles to understand their art, their leisurely approach to life and, most importantly, their identity as a nonbinary person. They’re not hated or suppressed, just met with a consistent and annoying confusion. As a result, Esther spends their spare time venturing into nature, trying to escape the constant stress of living. That is, until one day Esther finds an abandoned building occupied by a creature that will come to change their life forever.

$10. codythejames@gmail.com. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ mythos-of-a-lost-nightmare.

“The Beauty Queen of Leenane” — 8 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. In this intimate and pitch-black comedy from Martin McDonagh (author of “The Lieutenant of Inishmore”), 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? $7-$36. 301-694-4744. marylandensemble.org/ the-beauty-queen-of-leenane.

Sunday Feb. 16

CLASSES

Needle Point Felting with Natalie Love

— 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Fox Haven Farm, Retreat & Learning Center, 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson. Needle felting is a tension-reducing, simple, and gratifying fiber craft. Natalie will provide a pattern and hands-on instructions and tips on how to make these cute and whimsical bluebirds! This project is designed for a beginner and you don’t need to be good at drawing or sculpting to make a lovely toadstool. We will provide everything you need to do this project including naturally dyed wool and needles! If you already have needle felting supplies feel free to bring them! Ages 12 and up. $32. 240-490-5484. alecks@foxhavenfarm.org. foxhavenfarm.org.

ReWIND Wellness Series Program

p.m. to 2 p.m. at UNESCO Center, 129 W. Patrick St., Unit 15, Frederick. UNESCO Body and Mind Wellness is going to have basic, intermediate and advance wellness sessions for your own upliftment based on a unique meditation method. Each session is designed for 8 weeks for basic, and at the conclusion, those who attend for at least 6 of them, will receive a certificate of attendance. For teens. 240-446-1658. unescobmw@gmail.com. unescobmw.org.

ETCETERA

Calling Dr. Freud ESP Loft, 16 E. Patrick St., 2nd Floor, Freder ick. A collective creation including real-life stories, narratives, performance art, all de rived from real people, real experiences and shared works. Stories will be told with truth, clarity, sensitivity and even a bit of humor. Pay-what-you-want. 301-305-1405. contact@esptheatre.org. esptheatre.org.

FAMILY

Big Country Breakfast Buffet to 11 a.m. at Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Co. Reception Hall, 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy. Buffet includes scrambled eggs, smoked sausage, bacon, French toast, pancakes, biscuits, home fries, sausage and chipped beef gravies, baked apples, makeyour-own waffle bar and beverages. Cash or

THE FREDERICK WEDDING SHOW

Coffman Chapel Drive, Frederick. Pakiam is a 14-year-old recitalist and violin soloist and made her solo debut in California and at Carnegie Hall at age 8. verzosa@hood.edu. hood.edu/news/ hood-college-host-violinist-ava-pakiam.

Tall In The Saddle — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cactus Flats, 10026 Hansonville Road, Frederick. Country music.

THEATER

Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” — 12:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. 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. Brimming with intrigue, sophisticated humor, and surprising twists, “The Mousetrap” is one of Agatha Christie’s most iconic murder mysteries. Friday and Saturday evenings and matinees on the first, third and fifth Sunday, through March 1. Tickets vary. 301-662-6600. WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“The Beauty Queen of Leenane” — 3 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. In this intimate and pitch-black comedy from Martin McDonagh (author of “The Lieutenant of Inishmore”), 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?

$7-$36. 301-694-4744. marylandensemble.org/ the-beauty-queen-of-leenane.

Monday Feb. 17

CLASSES

ESL High Beginners Conversation Class — 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. We welcome adults (18 and older) who want to practice their English to a conversation class hosted by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Students will practice their speaking and listening skills with conversations guided by an instructor from the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Registration is required by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

ETCETERA

Bar Bingo — 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Frederick Eagles, 207 W. Patriick St., Frederick. Get your packets for $12, which includes 7 games. Happy hour 5 to 7 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m. 301-663-6281. FrederickAerie1067@gmail.com.

Calling Dr. Freud — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at ESP Loft, 16 E. Patrick St., 2nd Floor, Frederick. A collective creation including real-life stories, narratives, performance art, all derived from real people, real experiences and shared works. Stories will be told with truth,

clarity, sensitivity and even a bit of humor. Pay-what-you-want. 301-305-1405. contact@esptheatre.org. esptheatre.org.

FAMILY

Baby Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 East Moser Road, Thurmont. Songs, stories and play for babies and their grownups. Designed for children up to 24 months with a caregiver. Afterwards, we offer a “stay and play” for all to enjoy. 301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Disney on Ice Presents “Mickey’s Search Party” — 11 a.m. at CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore. Bringing the magic to guests through dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air.  This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey. Continues through Feb. 17. 410-243-1333. mmiles@weinbergharris.com.

“Lion King” Craft and Sing-Along — 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Join us for a family-friendly sing-along with tunes from “The Lion King,” then decorate a lion mask to take home. For kids. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

The Magic Tree House Party Primary tabs — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Celebrate the best-selling “The Magic Tree House” series! Follow in Jack and Annie’s footsteps as you learn about dinosaurs, mummies and more! Ages 5-12. 301-600-6329.

Junior Experts: How to be a Forest Firefighter — 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Have you ever wanted to see what it’s like to be a forest firefighter? Join us to learn what forest fire fighters do. This program is for children in preschool through 5th grades (ages 4-10). 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Frame Zentangles — 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Zen out and Zentangle a frame to put your own picture in! 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

“The House That She Built” Reading and Tallest Tower Craft — 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St. , Frederick . Hear a reading of “The House that She Built” followed by a tallest tower craft activity. Best for ages 5 - 12. 301-600-1630. pmccarty@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Tuesday Feb. 18

CLASSES

Align and Restore Yoga — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at The Center. Frederick, 28 E. Sixth St.,

Frederick. A slow flow gentle practice to engage the parasympathetic nervous system with breath control, body scans, and ending with an extended savasana that includes the rejuvenating practice of yoga nidra (yogic sleep) on heated floors. All levels welcome. 18 and older, pre-register. $20. 301-305-0693. parkerpsyd@gmail.com. thecenterfrederick.com.

ETCETERA

The Grand Reunion at the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Emmitsburg Senior Center, 300A S. Seton Ave., Unit 8, Emmitsburg. Fifty years after the Battle of Gettysburg, another army invaded the town as 54,000 veterans plus tens of thousands of spectators, family, visitors and journalists returned for the largest reunion of Civil War soldiers ever held. The veterans stayed in a tent city on the battlefield as they remembered the great battle fought there. Amazon.com-bestselling author James Rada Jr. will share stories and pictures from that history reunion. Pre-register. 301-600-6350. virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov. frederickcountymd.gov.

Open Chess Play — 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Stop in and play chess with your friends. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Service Industry Appreciation — 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Frederick Eagles, 207 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Hey there! We love our fellow service industry folks, so come on by and enjoy an extra discount on our already wallet-friendly food and drinks – that’s right, 20% off your tab! And if you’re a member, you get an additional 10% off our already cheap prices. Just flash us your paystub and we’ll hook you up. Can’t wait to see you here! #ServiceIndustryPerks #DiscountsForHardWorkers #CheapEatsAndDrinks 301-663-6281. FrederickAerie1067@gmail. com.

Calling Dr. Freud — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at ESP Loft, 16 E. Patrick St., 2nd Floor, Frederick. A collective creation including real-life stories, narratives, performance art, all derived from real people, real experiences and shared works. Stories will be told with truth, clarity, sensitivity and even a bit of humor. Pay-what-you-want. 301-305-1405. contact@esptheatre.org. esptheatre.org.

FAMILY

Preschool Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Songs, stories, and fun for preschoolers and their grownups. Designed for ages 3-5 with a caregiver. 301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Get Ready for Kindergarten — 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Have fun exploring literacy, STEM and art through play-based activities that integrate essential school skills. Designed for ages 3-5 with a

caregiver.  301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Elementary Explorers: Drawing “Dogtown,” A Visit With An Illustrator — 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 North Maple Avenue, Brunswick. Join NY Times bestselling illustrator Wallace West as he shares his illustrating process, how he creates a character, and talks about the real life dogs who inspired “Dogtown!” This program is for children in kindergarten through 5th grades (ages 5-10). Curious Iguana will be on hand with books available for purchase and signing. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Cinnamon Cutouts - The Spice of Life — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Create aromatic cinnamon cutouts using spices, applesauce and glue. This is a fun, hands-on activity that smells amazing anytime of the year. For teens. 301-600-6329. fcpl.org.

Night Owls — 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Storytime, pajama style! Enjoy movement, music and stories with the whole family. PJ’s optional! Designed for kids of all ages with a caregiver.

301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Wednesday Feb. 19

CLASSES

Gentle Yoga for All! — 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at The Common Market, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. This class is the perfect intro for a new student or an experienced yogi. There will be plenty of modifications offered to meet various levels so that ALL can enjoy the benefits of yoga. By donation. 301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop/classes-events.

Perfume & Poetry Night with Mary Adele Walters — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fox Haven Farm, Retreat & Learning Center, 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson. Immerse yourself in a sensory experience like no other as perfumer, facilitator, and published author Mary Adele Walters guides you into the creative, sensual realms of perfumery and prose. Bring along your favorite herbal perfume or hand craft one onsite using essential oils. Then, we’ll explore playful poetry prompts to inspire your imagination. 16 and older. $15. 240-490-5484. alecks@foxhavenfarm.org. foxhavenfarm.org.

ETCETERA

Creative Hive Happy Hour — 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at JoJo’s Restaurant and Taphouse, 16-18 E. Patrick St., Frederick. An evening of inspiration and fun. Connect with fellow creatives, share ideas, and enjoy some delicious drinks and snacks. Let your creativity flow in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. 301-662-4190.

info@frederickartscouncil.org.

WHAT TYPE OF SUMMER CAMP BEST SUITS YOUR CHILD?

Thinking about summer camps might bring up fond memories of campfires, swimming in the lake and going for hikes. However, there are many camps that specialize in things other than the outdoors. This summer, consider sending your kids to a camp where they can spend their time doing something unique that truly interests them.

FOR KIDS WHO WANT TO CREATE

If your kid is a performer at heart, they can hone their skills at a camp that specializes in music, dance, theatre, circus arts or even magic. Artists can master their craft and learn new techniques at a camp with programs for painting, sculpture, fashion design or photography.

FOR KIDS WHO LOVE TO LEARN

For the more academically minded, there are STEM camps that focus on science, technology, engineering and math. Or, if they’d like, they can concentrate on one area of interest like robotics, coding, space, zoology, literature, writing or even dinosaurs.

FOR KIDS WHO NEED TO MOVE

If they love being outside so much that a traditional camp doesn’t quite cut it, they can learn to live off the land at a wilderness camp where they’ll master the art of building a fire from friction, identify edible plants and sleep in the open air. If your teenager is an athlete, there’s sure to be a camp for their sport, whether it’s baseball, football, hockey, lacrosse, skateboarding or skiing — yes, even in the summer!

FOR KIDS LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT

There are camps for everything these days, so if your child loves chess, cooking, Legos, surfing or even rollercoasters, there will be a place for them.

Activities to keep kids busy this summer

Summer is finally here, and with it the added responsibility of keeping your kids busy for several weeks of summer vacation. The worst thing you can do is let your children sit in front of the TV and play video games 24/7. Here’s a list of things you can do with your kids this summer:

• Go strawberry picking. Going to pick your own tasty strawberries (or any other type of seasonal fruit) is a great way to spend time with your children out and about in the beautiful summer weather. You’ll get some fresh air and well-needed exercise along the way.

• Play outside in the sprinklers. When it’s not raining, it’s time to go outside and have a good time. Have fun running around and jumping through the sprinkler, or get creative and make your own rain using the hose. There are

tons of fun ways to cool off in your own backyard this summer.

• Host a game night. On rainy days, invite friends over for a game night (or day) to keep your children occupied. Some things to include are board games, cards, arts and crafts, and puzzles.

This summer, keep your children busy with indoor and outdoor activities alike. Be sure they (and you) wear the proper sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, etc.) to prevent burns while you and your kids are out and about.

CAMP: WEEK ONE JUNE 16 - JUNE 19, 2025

CAMP: WEEK TWO JUNE 23 - JUNE 26, 2025

Children ages 5 to 12 9:00am-2:30pm

CHECKLIST: GETTING READY FOR SUMMER CAMP

You spent ages searching for the perfect summer camp for your kids and now you and your children are confident you’ve chosen the right one. They’re excited but don’t know what to expect and frankly, neither do you. Here’s how to prepare for your kids’ first time at a sleep away camp and make sure the summer adventure is a success.

MENTALLY PREPARING THEM

• Learn all you can: give them a chance to get excited about going away to camp. Review the camp’s brochure and website together and go to the open house or orientation session.

• Get used to the outdoors: if you live in the city, a family camping trip will get them accustomed to venturing into the wilderness and, in particular, the total darkness of the night.

• Talk to an experienced camper: learning about someone else’s experiences, ideally at the same camp, will give them an idea of what to expect.

• Practise being away from home: going to sleepovers, or even spending a weekend with the grandparents, will allow them to get comfortable with sleeping in an unfamiliar bed.

• Figure out how you’ll communicate: every camp has different rules about phone calls, so make sure you and your kids know what to expect.

• Teach them to be independent: they’ll have to clean up after themselves at camp, so have them do chores around the house to help them get used to it.

PACKING THEIR BAGS

• Follow the packing list: don’t send anything beyond what’s stipulated by the camp. Kids are often happy wearing the same two pairs of shorts all summer anyway.

FIND YOUR FRIENDS. FIND YOUR Y.

At summer camp, your kids will make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day.

Locations include:

• Downtown Y

• Natelli Family Y

• Y Arts Center

• Camp West Mar and more...

• Label everything: whatever isn’t labelled may not make it home.

• Prescription medication: send them with enough of their medication to last for the duration of their time at camp. It should be in its original packaging with the dosing instructions clearly marked.

WHAT NOT TO DO

• Don’t: show them how emotional you are about them leaving for an extended period of time.

• Don’t: create unrealistic impressions of how wonderful their time at camp will be. They’ll learn to love camp on their own terms.

When they’re properly prepared, your kids will be able to concentrate on the important part of camp: making new friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

Kids On Campus