“For me, being a boomtown isn’t about finding the gold; it’s about finding the art,” says Frederick filmmaker Salyer McLaughlin, whose docudrama “Boomtown” tells of Frederick’s transformation from post-war decline to cultural renaissance. Catch a screening of the first part of the film on March 13 (6:10 and 7:20 p.m.) or March 16 (2:30, 3:40 and 4:40 p.m.) at Warehouse Cinemas in Frederick. The film’s first installment covers 1945 to 1977 through the eyes of The Frederick News-Post’s first Black photographer, Amos Brown, and highlights how visionaries like Ron Young and Don Linton mobilized artists to reimagine Frederick’s potential. Both parts will eventually combine for a screening at the Weinberg Center slated for 2026.
WEINBERG INCREASES ACCESSIBILITY
The Weinberg Center for the Arts and New Spire Arts have introduced ListenWiFi, an assistive listening technology that streams high-quality audio directly over wifi to the smartphones of audience members. “We are committed to ensuring that all guests, including those with hearing impairments, can fully enjoy the incredible performances at our venues,” said Stephanie Chaiken, Weinberg Center executive theater manager. The system, made possible by funding from Visit Frederick, allows guests to use their own devices by downloading the free Listen Everywhere app, or they can borrow ListenWiFi Audio Receivers available at both venues.
SILVERVOX IS CREATING A SUSTAINABLE ARTS ECOSYSTEM FOR ALL OF US
SilverVox, a new nonprofit outgrowth of the beloved 72 Film Fest, has transformed two floors of The Ordinary Hen restaurant in downtown Frederick into spaces for film, music and live performance. The Vox House on the second floor offers Thursday night film screenings ranging from classics to local productions, while the basement’s speakeasy-inspired Vox Lounge hosts LIVE! concert series (Fridays), Ordinary Comedy Nights (Saturdays) and original songwriter sessions, all free.
FREDERICK NATIVE PIONEERS PSYCHEDELIC WELLNESS RETREATS
Neil Markey, whose family has deep, 300-year roots in Frederick, has co-founded Beckley Retreats, offering transformative psilocybin experiences in Jamaica and the Netherlands. The U.S. Army Special Operations veteran partnered with Amanda Feilding, a leading psychedelics researcher, to create immersive experiences that combine the therapeutic potential of psilocybin with meditation, mindful movement, breathwork and nature.
NEW LEADERSHIP AT THE MET
Maryland Ensemble Theatre has appointed Frederick native Melynda Burdette Wintrol as its new managing director. With a career spanning the DMV theater scene, including work with renowned regional companies like Signature Theatre and Studio Theatre, Wintrol brings formidable credentials to the position. Her dual expertise in performance and administration, backed by a master’s in nonprofit management, positions the MET for growth and an exciting next chapter.
ONE MARYLAND ONE BOOK SELECTED
Maryland Humanities has selected Carole Boston Weatherford’s “Kin: Rooted in Hope” as this year’s One Maryland One Book, inviting readers statewide into an exploration of African-American history with Maryland roots. This mother-son collaboration features art by Jeffery Boston Weatherford. “Knowing your history is generational wealth,” said Weatherford, who recently received the 2025 Children’s Literature Legacy Award. Maryland Humanities will announce the author tour this summer. Follow @mdhumanities for updates.
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.
Cugino Forno Frederick
2024 WINNER FOR BEST PIZZA & PLACE TO EAT WITH KIDS
1705 North Market St, Suite 100 Frederick, MD 21701
We strive to create a family-friendly environment with perfect customer service, where customers feel like family. You can catch up with old friends and have a great time while enjoying a slice of Italy in Frederick. Aside from the ambiance, all of our pizzas are made from the very best ingredients imported from Italy. Pizzas are prepared right before your eyes and cooked in our imported wood-fired ovens in just 90 seconds. The ovens are made from the volcanic sand of Mt. Vesuvius in Naples, Italy, just for us. We also import our gelatos and desserts from Italy as well.
WHAT MAKES FREDERICK A GREAT PLACE TO DO BUSINESS?
Frederick has been amazing to us. Truly, we are so thankful to each and every member of the community. The hospitality we have seen from the whole community as well as the City. There is a great vibe, and friendly people here. It is a unique City with a diverse range of people!
WHAT IS CUGINO FORNO KNOWN FOR?
We are known for great pizza, an amazing atmosphere, and excellent customer service. When we were preparing to open our location in Frederick, I had only one thing in mind: if somebody has a guest from out of town or out of the country, we want them to bring them here. We want them to say, “You know what, let me take you to this pizza place. They have really good pizza, a really good atmosphere, and really good customer service.” The moment I see people bringing their relatives, family members, and friends from out of town here is when I knew we achieved what we were trying to do. We wanted to stand out with the quality, the concept, and the ability to see who is making your pizza – how clean they are, what they are using, and what they are not using. When you have someone visiting from out of town, you want to show them somewhere cool. It’s a psychological thing; you want to show them something cool about your city, your town, and your community.
EAT & DRINK
BY GARY BENNETT Special to The News-Post
Pub crawling St. Patrick’s Day
Along with being Irish for a day, “kiss me — I’m Irish” proclamations, and wearing green, for many people, St. Patrick’s Day means it’s time for a pub crawl.
The term “crawl” refers to the slow and steady pace of moving from one bar to the next, as opposed to rushing in and out — although it could also refer to the slower pace of movement as the evening wears on and inebriation sets in. But let’s hope not.
Pub crawls differ from bar hopping because of the organized nature of the event. Bar hopping is spontaneous. Pub crawls are planned. Bar hopping typically takes you to the same old haunts. Pub crawls should take you to places you have never tried. Typically, with crawls, there is a set route to follow from bar to bar.
Crawlers can walk, take taxis or sometimes even a special “pub crawl” bus, and costumes are often encouraged — or at least tolerated.
HISTORY
Inconceivably, pub crawls do not necessarily trace their origins back to St. Patrick’s Day. Other holidays — Halloween, Cinco de Mayo, Christmas and New Year’s Eve — were often used to build pub crawls around. But often, no holidays were needed at all!
By most accounts, pub crawls date back to early 20th-century London, home to closely situated pubs on just about every street. The first pub crawl is credited to Oxford University students in 1910, who visited 18 English pubs in one night to blow off steam and socialize with likeminded colleagues.
Today, much of the civilized world celebrates pub crawls for birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, random get-togethers and yes, St. Patrick’s Day. There are even tour organizers who specialize in pub crawls.
For a pub crawl to be fun and exciting, you need a substantial number of closely situated bars to visit. We are fortunate to have plenty of bars, breweries and distilleries situated in downtown Frederick.
Unfortunately, as of this writing, there are no official pub crawls scheduled for Frederick on March 17. There are many scheduled in D.C., Alexandria, Baltimore and even Westminster and Cumberland.
But Frederick’s lack of a pre-planned pub crawl doesn’t mean you can’t organize your own!
MARKET STREET CRAWL
For your crawling pleasure, here is a suggested list of 10 bars in the downtown Frederick area to visit on St. Patrick’s Day, listed by the most efficient walking route.
plans for March 17. They will be hosting their fourth annual fundraiser for muscular dystrophy in conjunction with Frederick Career Firefighters. The event will go on all day, enhanced by live music and a party atmosphere very possibly at the large parking lot right next door.
6. Next door to Shuckin’ Shack is pleasantly named Hootch and Banter. Their lounge is not usually open on Mondays, so please check their website for any St. Patrick’s Day activities.
7. Head just around the corner from Hootch and Banter to try out Frederick’s “pour your own” destination, Frederick Social. Here, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out. With a large patio area and Carroll Creek as a backdrop, you can choose from a selection of dozens of beers, wines and cocktails on tap to toast St. Patrick.
a.m. on St. Patrick’s Day in 2023.
BUILD YOUR OWN CRAWL
Bushwaller’s
209 N. Market St.
301-695-6988
Magoo’s Pub & Eatery
1 W. Second St. 301-378-2237
Agave 137 Tequila Bar and Kitchen
137 N. Market St. 240-439-4367
Hootch and Banter
49 S. Market St. 301-732-4971
Frederick Social 50 Citizen’s Way 240-629-8525
Idiom Brewing Co
340 E. Patrick St., #104 240-578-4152
Brewer’s Alley 124 N. Market St. 301-631-0089
It stretches for about a mile.
Be sure to check websites for the most up to date information on St. Patrick’s Day specials. Please drink responsibly, go with friends and don’t drink and drive.
1. Begin at Olde Towne Tavern on North Market Street, where parking is plentiful. Olde Towne has a warm, neighborhood-bar feel and features several specials on Monday nights. Happy hour lasts from 4 to 7 p.m. with $1 off all drinks and $5 personal pizzas. Enjoy ping pong, pool, darts and foosball.
2. Head south on Market Street for about two blocks to really get your Irish on at Bushwaller’s, one of Frederick’s two traditional Irish pubs. For early risers, the green-adorned Frederick institution opens at 8 a.m. on March 17 for “Kegs and Eggs.” They will also host live music throughout the day.
3. Turn the corner onto Second Street
White Rabbit Gastropub
18 Market Space 240-651-1952
RAK Brewing Co
400 Sagner Ave., #100 240-446-9034
Steinhardt Brewing Company
340 E. Patrick St., Suite 100-102 240-651-0057
Attaboy Beer
400 Sagner Ave., #400 301-338-8229
Shuckin’ Shack
Oyster Bar
41 S. Market St. 240-575-9876
JoJo’s Restaurant and Tap House
16-18 E. Patrick St. 301-732-5197
and head into Frederick’s other Irish pub, Magoo’s. Proprietor Jennifer Daugherty has planned a special St. Patrick’s Day menu with traditional Irish dishes, Guinness on tap, Smithwick’s Irish Ale, Harp Lager and Kilkenny Irish Cream.
Note: Because our two Irish pubs are in such close proximity, the area around Market and Second streets are sure to be packed with humanity, spilling out into the street. Be advised it might be hard to belly up to the bar at either location. You may be better off making a reservation for dinner.
4. Next, turn into Agave 137, less than a block away on North Market. Agave is typically closed on Mondays but will open on St. Patrick’s Day with extended hours.
5. Next up is Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar, just steps away from Carroll Creek on North Market and just a block or so from Agave 137. Co-owner Eric Weller has big
8. After your stop at Frederick Social, turn around, get your bearings, and head back up North Market for one block. Take a slight detour onto East Patrick Street and arrive at JoJo’s Restaurant and Tap House. On March 17, enjoy an all-day happy hour featuring $2 off draft beers, $1 off bottle and can beers, and $2 off all wine by the glass.
9. After JoJo’s, keep walking north on Market Street to a Frederick favorite, Brewer’s Alley, which will offer a “Kegs and Eggs” breakfast buffet along with special drinks and Irish-themed food on St. Patrick’s Day. Their rooftop bar will be open the entire weekend.
10. After Brewer’s, tuck in behind their building to finish your evening at White Rabbit Gastropub. Plans had not yet been finalized at the time of writing but, I’m told, may include a block party in their sizable parking lot. Call 240-651-1952 for information closer to the holiday. You can expect specials though, such as green beer, shamrock shakes and Shepherd’s Pie pizza among other unusual offerings.
If you prefer to get off Market Street and venture down Carroll Creek, you can make a night of it at RAK Brewing, Idiom Brewing, Attaboy Beer and Steinhardt Brewing, all of which are within close proximity.
RAK Brewing promises several specialty beer releases on St. Patrick’s Day, including a Dublin stout. Idiom will host live music, green beer and food specials. Steinhardt will feature live music along with $1 off pints of celebration (Dry Irish Stout), Irish Red and Green Kolsch from March 14 to 17.
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.
Staff file photo by Bill Green
Getting an early start on St. Patrick’s Day celebrating at Bushwallers in downtown Frederick are, from left, Donna Brannen, Linda Price and Mary Brill. The restaurant opened to a capacity crowd at 8
MUSICIAN TO MUSICIAN
Q&A: Dominique Bianco talks jazz, inspiration, and the music industry ahead of her show at New Spire Arts
BY COLIN MCGUIRE
Special to The News-Post
Dominique Bianco is a Wammie Award-winning jazz singer from Manassas, Virginia, who is planning to put out an EP later this year. She is also set to bring her quartet to New Spire Arts on March 20 as part of the DMV Jazz Series.
We recently caught up with her to talk about being a young artist in the jazz world, how hard it is to break through in the music industry these days, her close relationship with her father, and if she has a plan for life outside of music someday.
You are pretty young, from what I gather, and you’re doing a type of music that isn’t necessarily for young people, either. How did you get into music in the first place, and from there, how did you gravitate toward jazz?
My father is a singer and guitar player, so most of that magic definitely comes from him. He’s one of my biggest inspirations. He makes guitars and he’s a huge handyman. He’s got an amazing voice. Growing up, I heard his songs, and he covered songs from The Beatles to Etta James. He really sang some of the best music that I had ever heard. They were always from musicians and artists that were diverse and well-rounded. It’s kind of like good music is good music.
That was my upbringing. It was a musical household. My brothers played instruments as well. They kind of fell out of it and I’ve been the only one that’s held on to it and is sticking with it. As far as being young in a genre that is considered to be for an older generation — the American Songbook classics are timeless, and they are timeless for a reason. My inspiration for original music is timeless, too. I think that’s a common theme throughout my song choice and songwriting — being inspired by timeless music that speaks to humanity and is well-rounded.
Is there a voice or a songwriter who really inspires you more than others?
There are definitely two that stick out. Billy Joel, for sure, and Jim Croce. When it comes to Billy Joel’s music, it’s so diverse. He’s done jazz records and he’s done more modern stuff. Whenever you hear Billy Joel, you know that’s Billy Joel. When you hear Jim Croce, you know it’s him. That theme of timeless music is really what inspires me. Creating my own sound and achieving that level of mastery is really difficult, but that kind of challenge pushes me forward.
I never would have guessed Jim Croce and Billy Joel, so that’s sort of fun. Have you ever seen Billy Joel live?
I have not. But my dad has a couple
Dominique Bianco will perform at New Spire Arts as part of the DMV Jazz Series.
Dominique Bianco
crazy stories with some friends. He knows somebody who was in a band and Billy Joel actually auditioned for their band and they were about to get signed, and Billy Joel walked away and said, “I think I’m going to do my own thing.” Then, he became Billy Joel.
You’re coming to Frederick. Have you been here before?
Yes, I’ve played the Frederick Jazz Festival twice.
How was that? What do you think of Frederick?
Oh, I love it. I love the audience. I love the atmosphere, the vibe. Everything is amazing. The love for musical artists is so deeply rooted in Frederick. There’s so much love and appreciation I feel from the audience whenever I’m there.
Do you have plans to put out an EP or full-length album sometime soon with your own originals?
Yeah, it’s so crazy that you ask that. I’m currently working on the production end of everything. I actually went to school for jazz at George Mason University, but I also had a minor in music tech. I’m currently producing an EP of some of my originals. It will be half live and half produced. The full project should be released around May, and I’m really excited because I haven’t released anything since 2022, when I released my debut album, “I’m All Smiles,” a tribute to the American Songbook with a bunch of niche jazz standards that I love. I think I recorded it at 19 years old while I was still in college because I wanted to get out of college with a really good piece of material to brand myself right out of the gate. This will be very different from what I put out back then, but it’s a more accurate a representation of me as an artist and not just a singer. How hard is it these days to break through in the music industry?
IF YOU GO
DMV Jazz Series presents Dominique Bianco Quartet at 7:30 p.m. March 20 at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Tickets are $20 and are available at weinbergcenter.org, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828, or in person at 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick.
I would say it depends. It’s extremely difficult today. The competition is cutthroat and you’re competing with the best of the best on the same platforms. What I struggle with is being able to accurately represent myself as an artist or singer in a 30-second video — being able to show my personality and all of the complex things about me: the more creative side of me, the funny side of me … I have a bunch of different parts of my personality that I find hard to put it into “content,” as we call it today. I find it hard to connect with people through social media because I have to have the perfect video and we’re competing with people who have some of the best equipment, some of the best AI software. These are people who can brainstorm amazing content that tugs at people’s emotions, whereas I’m trying to find that balance of authenticity and then how to bring that to people. That’s just the social media end of it. In terms of labels and the industry side of stuff, that’s also been pretty difficult. If you’re not making a certain amount of money as a musician, it can be very hard to find opportunities that are within a certain budget. Just making a debut album. Carol King’s “Tapestry” cost $22,000 and that was back then, so you can only imagine today, with the photography and videography and publishing. All of that stuff costs money and if you aren’t making a bunch as a full-time musician, it’s real-
ly, really difficult. I’d love to put out a fulllength album, but that’s just not feasible for me at the moment.
I was going to ask you about that. Are you taking the approach where you put out one song at a time, or are you saving them for a full-length someday?
Hopefully, a happy medium. I’ll release a couple singles first as part of the upcoming EP. Then, I’ll put out the full project. What I really want my career to be about is I want to be a recording artist mostly because I love dissecting a really good project and sending a message through a body of work. That’s something I grew up loving about the music industry — when I could check out a full record and there were four or five songs on there that I love.
I’ll still do that on Spotify — look up artists and check out their albums and sift through them as a body of work to try and get the message from it all. Singles are awesome and I would love to put out as much as I can, but for me, I am a more strategic person. I don’t want to put out something and regret it. I want to put out something that represents me.
Do you have a Plan B, or will music be your career from here on out?
I do photography on the side. That’s a fun, little thing that I do. I try to help out artists in the community. For me, it’s about giving more than anything else. I understand the need to keep up with social media and having enough photos from a recent performance that you need to put out. I’ve done stuff at the Kennedy Center and Blues Alley for artist photography, and it’s a super fun creative outlet for me. I also do graphic design for my father. He’s a sharpener — he sharpens knives, sells cutlery, anything that’s sharp [laughs] — so I’ll be editing little videos for him and stuff like that. It’s a really nice side hustle and I love helping my dad. It’s a winwin situation. But my only Plan A is singing. I’ve been doing that my whole life. I feel like I came out of the womb singing a song.
This interview has been edited for clarity and space.
Colin McGuire has been in and out of bands for more than 20 years and also helps produce concerts in and around Frederick. His work has appeared in Alternative Press magazine, PopMatters and 72 Hours, among other outlets. He is convinced that the difference between being in a band and being in a romantic relationship is less than minimal. Contact him at mcguire. colin@gmail.com.
First half of the Frederick docudrama
‘Boomtown’
BY COLIN MCGUIRE
Special to The News-Post
Boomtown: A town undergoing rapid growth due to sudden prosperity.
Look up the word “boomtown” in the Oxford Dictionary, and that’s the result you’ll find. It’s been applicable a handful of times throughout the history of America — think the Gold Rush out West or the rise of New York in the East — but to Frederickbased movie producer and director Salyer McLaughlin, the notion of a “Boomtown” hits closer to home than some might think.
“For me, being a boomtown isn’t about finding the gold; it’s about finding the art,” he said recently. “And art has become the economic engine for change in Frederick. The money that’s been given to art projects here is a big reason Frederick has become what it is.”
What Frederick has become is depicted in McLaughlin’s latest cinematic venture, “Boomtown.” Split into two parts, the first section of the movie is set to screen at Warehouse Cinemas at 6:10 and 7:20 p.m. on March 13, and again at 2:30, 3:40 and 4:40 p.m. on March 16. This follows a series of events dedicated to the movie that have already sold out in previous weeks.
According to McLaughlin, the project began in August 2023 when producers secured an option agreement to adapt “From the Brink to Brilliant: The Revitalization of Downtown Frederick,” a book released in February 2023 by Kate McDermott that shines a spotlight on Frederick’s untold story of community resilience, creative defiance and historic preservation.
As McLaughlin put it, the film draws on “the expertise of consultants Chris Haugh, Don Linton, Ron Young, Marlene Young, George Delaplaine and other key figures from Frederick’s storied past” and has “grown into a cinematic tribute to Frederick’s history and its ongoing evolution.”
The first part of the movie runs about 40 minutes and is set from 1945 to 1977. This portion of the film is seen through the eyes of The Frederick News-Post’s first Black photographer, Amos Brown, as well as the civic leaders who fought to save the city.
Part two, set to be completed later this year, will be presented through the eyes of Brown’s granddaughter
will be screened this weekend
Part I of “Boomtown” is seen through the eyes of The Frederick News-Post’s first Black photographer, Amos Brown, depicted here as portrayed by actor Arien Jones.
and will focus on how Frederick’s past continues to shape its identity.
Despite the film’s connection to Frederick’s history, McLaughlin was
quick to point out that “Boomtown” is not a documentary. Rather, it’s a narrative drama. Inspired by McDermott’s book, McLaughlin
knew early on that he wanted to take a different approach to telling Frederick’s story while knowing the city has been the subject of many documentaries in the past.
“People like Ron Young and Don Linton ignited the spirit of artists here in 1972,” McLaughlin explained. “There was a plan that basically said if we were to retain and restore the city’s architecture, Frederick could be a destination for a long, long time to come. The group then engaged with artists to imagine what some of Frederick’s buildings could look like with a little bit of money and restoration.
“They ignited this civic action among a lot of the community that was fed up with the fact that the government wasn’t changing,” he added. “These artists imagined what downtown could look like with parking, trees, bushes, wider sidewalks, and that’s what turned downtown around.”
Local historian Chris Haugh played a key role in helping McLaughlin research the history of Frederick for the film. Haugh said
Courtesy photos
Frederick-based movie producer and director Salyer McLaughlin, at left, during production of his current project, “Boomtown.”
he thinks McLaughlin reached out to him because of Haugh’s past productions, including a 10-part documentary series that focused on Frederick’s history from 1745 to 1995.
“He [McLaughlin] wanted to do a reboot of the history of Frederick, and I asked him how he would do it differently,” Haugh recalled. “His focus was the death of downtown to the renaissance it is now, and he made sure he did his treatment with as many facts as possible. That’s where I helped him out a little bit — kind of like being there as a Mr. Miyagi to him.”
McLaughlin’s commitment to studying Frederick’s history led to
the filmmaker drawing parallels between modern Frederick stalwarts like Linton, Young and Delaplaine to those who made a difference hundreds of years ago, like Barbara Fritchie and Francis Scott Key. He referred to them as rebels, people who disrupted the system for the larger goal of inciting change in downtown Frederick.
It’s a theme that casts a loving shadow over the first part of “Boomtown.” It’s also a narrative that Haugh said he was happy to see come alive on the silver screen for the first time.
“What Salyer has done to bring these characters to life — to see an actor playing George Delaplaine
and talking to reporters when the Great Frederick Flood happened, it’s just so neat,” Haugh said. “Salyer really grilled me through the process. He took history classes, read history books, and he actually had to become a student of history. The message we decided we’d try to say was that the rebellious spirit can grow out of the patriotic spirit. Just look at what these people did.”
If everything goes according to plan, both parts of “Boomtown” will ultimately combine to form one movie that will be screened at the Weinberg Center on Jan. 24, 2026. McLaughlin, for his part, wants to mark America’s 250th anniversary of democracy as part of the premiere.
To him, the story told in “Boomtown” is as representative as any tale told regarding the evolution and success of not just Frederick but our country. To be able to share that message through the history of the place he now calls home just makes the project that much more special.
“If everything goes on exactly the way it’s supposed to and you don’t have change and there’s no risk, you have communities that don’t appeal to artists,” McLaughlin said. “Frederick appeals to artists because of that sense of rebellion.
“And that,” he concluded, “is what ‘Boomtown’ is all about.”
Actors dressed as 1970s newspaper reporters for part I of “Boomtown,” screening this weekend at Warehouse Cinemas in Frederick.
Legendary Frederick News-Post reporter Susie Nichol.
The Great Frederick Flood was recreated for the film “Boomtown.”
Don Linton, shown here, was one of several people who helped filmmaker Salyer McLaughlin learn more about Frederick’s local history.
Marlene and Ron Young.
120+ fibery vendors
Kids Zone from 11am-2pm
Local Food Trucks
Wine, beer and spirit tastings
Plant Sale from 8:30am-1pm by the Frederick County Master Gardeners
Find great prices on thousands of plants and more!
The Frederick Mom’s recommendations for the weekend of March 14
Activities to do with the kids this weekend, courtesy of The Frederick Mom.
Magically Delicious Kids Cookie Party
6:30 to 8 p.m. March 14
The Dessert Depot, 1502 S. Main St., Ste 105, Mount Airy
$45/child
Kids can join The Dessert Depot for a sweet and creative Friday evening decorating cookies with a St. Patrick’s Day twist! Each child will get eight prebaked, delicious mini cookies to decorate how they wish with guidance from an instructor! Cookies will be taken home in a festive Lucky Charms treat bag to enjoy later. Reserve your seat and check out future classes at thedessertdepot. com.
•••
Frederick Home & Garden Expo
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 15 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 16
Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick
Free
Guaranteed family fun in Building 8! Join the 50th annual Frederick Home & Garden Expo for a free weekend of free family entertainment — all at the Frederick Fairgrounds! On Saturday, kids can learn to plant a seed at 9:30 a.m., enjoy Pirate Magic at 11 a.m. and again at 1 p.m., and have a dance party with Captain Silly Bones at noon. On Sunday, kids can plant a seed at 11 a.m. and have fun playing some T-Ball with Keyote from the Frederick Keys at 2 p.m. There will also be an Expo-wide Scavenger Hunt offered all day on both Saturday and Sunday for kids. Learn more about the Frederick Home & Garden Expo at FrederickExpo.org.
•••
Tree Trekkers Opening Day
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 15
Tree Trekkers, 9560 Old National Pike, Frederick Cost varies
Happy opening day, Tree Trekkers!
Take the family to Frederick’s ultimate outdoor aerial adventure and zip lining park this weekend! For kids ages 7 and older, Tree Trekkers offers something for everyone with 16 different trails, 250 obstacles, with eight difficulty levels. Enjoy a couple hours outside and climb, swing and zip line through the forest. Get tickets and find March Madness discounts online at treetrekkersmd. com.
•••
Visit with the Animals
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 15
Star Gazing Farm, 16760 Whites Store Road, Boyds
$10 donation/person
Visit an animal sanctuary with the family this Saturday! Visit the sweet and furry animals at Star Gazing Farm on the third Saturday of every month. The guided tour gives families a chance to meet (behind their fence) sheep, goats, cows, pigs, horse, donkey, llamas and alpacas. See the Bunny Motel with its adorable rabbit and chinchilla residents. Gates open at 10:45 a.m. Reservations are required. For more info: shop. stargazingfarm.org/directions.
Build Your Own Leprechaun Trap
1 to 2 p.m. March 15
Middletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown
Free
The Middletown library is hosting a cute event this Saturday to get in the spirit for St. Patrick’s Day. Stop by and get crafty! Kids can create a trap of their own design to catch that pesky Leprechaun! Materials and boxes will be provided. This event welcomes all ages.
•••
Frederick Comic Con
9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 16
Clarion Inn, 5400 Holiday Drive, Frederick
$10/adult, 12 and under and free
All ages are invited to wear their cosplay (“costume play”) this Sunday and join the community for Frederick Comic Con! Shoff Promotions presents an event full collectibles on over 100 tables to check out. From comic books to non-sports cards like Pokémon packs and singles, Magic and Yu-Gi-Oh; toys from SciFi action figures, superheroes, Funko Pops and plushies; plus video games and gaming/hobby supplies, there’s tons to see! Visit the new Pokémon Plaza where 20 additional Pokémon dealers will have cards on display. Admission is cash only at the door. Visit shoffpromotions.com for more info.
•••
Winter Concert
6:30 p.m. March 16
Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick
$15/adult, 18 and under are free
The Frederick Regional Youth Orchestra is having their Winter Concert this Sunday at the Weinberg! If your family enjoys classical music and scores from movies and Broadway musicals, then grab tickets and head downtown Frederick to support local students in Frederick and the tri-state region at their Winter Concert. Children under 18 are free, but a ticket is still required. For tickets, visit weinbergcenter.org.
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.
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A St. Patrick’s Day cookie class is a treat.
TIFFANY MAHANEY
New nonprofit SilverVox works to build a sustainable artist community
BY LAUREN LAROCCA llarocca@newspost.com
Last week, SilverVox, a new local nonprofit dedicated to supporting artists, launched multiple, weekly live music and film series at two spaces inside The Ordinary Hen restaurant in downtown Frederick.
SilverVox is dedicated to transforming local venues into hubs for film, music and live performance and will bring popular movies alongside local films to the space, as well as performances by regional musicians and comedy open mics.
An expansion of the 72 Film Fest, SilverVox is creating what it calls a sustainable arts movement — one that ensures local creators have a physical space and financial support.
“This is what I’ve always wanted to do in this space, to create a true home for artists and a gathering place for the community,” Carrie Delente, board chair of SilverVox and owner of The Ordinary Hen, said in a statement. “Creators are facing challenges, and we want to support them. Our goal is to expand 72 Film Fest and build it into a premier, multi-venue festival that makes Frederick a true destination for film, music and live performance.”
SilverVox has transformed the second floor and basement of The Ordinary Hen at 228 N. Market St. into spaces for the arts.
The Vox House (second floor) is an indie-style film screening room overlooking North Market Street that will host Thursday night movie screenings — favorites like “The Big Lebowski,” “The Shining” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” But also, soon to come, it will have work by local and regional filmmakers, according to 72 Film Fest director and SilverVox cofounder Clark Kline, who has worked to build the space and programming.
SilverVox will also play a central role in the 20th year of 72 Film Fest, with retrospective screenings from many of the festival teams being shown in the space.
The basement space at The Ordinary Hen, which formerly served as the Artique Under-
EVENTS SCHEDULE
Thursday Night Starlight
Cinema at Vox House Movies start at 7 p.m.
March 13 — “Raiders of the Lost Ark”
March 20 — “Legally Blonde”
March 27 — “Cool Runnings”
April 3 — “Step Brothers”
April 10 — “The Notebook”
April 17 — “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure”
April 24 — “Goodfellas”
May 1 — “The Big Lebowski”
May 8 — “Anchorman”
May 15 — “The Shining”
May 22 — “Rushmore”
May 29 — “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”
ground art gallery, has been transformed into the Vox Lounge, a speakeasy-inspired music venue that will feature several weekly events. LIVE! at The Vox Lounge is a Friday night concert series featuring local and regional acts.
Ordinary Comedy Nights, hosted by Doug Powell, will be held on Saturdays, bringing open mic stand-up comedy to the space. Sessions at The Vox Lounge, hosted by JB Dunn, will be songwriter open mic nights dedicated to original music and storytelling.
A small, attached space will serve as a green room for artists and will double as a podcast studio.
In addition to hosting weekly events, SilverVox is expanding the 72 Film Fest nationally by launching an online festival for remote filmmakers while growing the in-person event in Frederick. This will allow filmmakers from across the country to compete in their own online contest.
“We want to turn Frederick into a hub for indie film, music and live performance,” Kline said.
Registration for year 20 of the 72 Film Fest opens on April 1.
Tim DeFoggi, a longtime 72 Fest organizer and vice president of the SilverVox board, has also been instrumental in creating the new film and music spaces.
In a press release, SilverVox stated that 100% of public donations will go directly to paying artists, funding performances and supporting creative work. SilverVox funds its operations separately through grants, sponsorships, memberships and partnerships.
“The arts have always brought people together,” Delente said. “This is about building a real, lasting community. Every donation, every ticket, every membership fuels an artist’s ability to create. That’s what SilverVox is all about.”
To become involved, you can attend performances, become a SilverVox member, or donate to SilverVox. SilverVox is also actively seeking partnerships with local businesses, venues and arts organizations to help build something extraordinary together.
Learn more at silvervox.org, or
The Vox House, on the second floor of The Ordinary Hen in downtown Frederick, is an indie-style film screening room that will host Thursday night movies.
email info@silvervox.org for information. Follow SilverVox on Instagram @silvervoxarts. Lauren LaRocca is the editor of 72 Hours. You can reach her at llarocca@newspost.com, or follow her on Instagram @karmarocca.
Friday Night Live Music at Vox Lounge :: Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and music starts at 7 p.m. featuring local and regional artists, hosted and curated by Bradley Kurzawa.
Saturday Night Ordinary Comedy Open Mic at Vox Lounge :: Sign up is at 7 p.m., open mic starts at 8 p.m. These comedy nights will be hosted by Doug Powell. The first comedy open mic will be on March 15.
Sunday Night Sessions at Vox Lounge Live Music :: Hosted by JB Dunn, these run from 6 to 9 p.m. each Sunday with a featured artist performing a 30-minute set in between two open mic sessions.
All events are free. Food and drink from The Ordinary Hen will be available to purchase.
Staff photos by Lauren LaRocca
From left, Tim DeFoggi and Clark Kline, along with SilverVox board chair and owner of The Ordinary Hen Carrie Delente, have worked to create two spaces for the arts inside The Ordinary Hen.
The MET appoints Melynda Burdette Wintrol as its managing director
Maryland Ensemble Theatre recently announced the appointment of Melynda Burdette Wintrol as its managing director, effective immediately.
As production manager at the MET since 2019, Wintrol oversaw 55 productions, demonstrating exceptional leadership, organizational skills and a deep commitment to MET’s mission to enable audiences to feel more deeply, think more critically and laugh more joyfully.
Additionally, in 2022, she oversaw the capital renovation of the Robin Drummond Mainstage at the theater in downtown Frederick. Her understanding of the operational side of theater, combined with her passion for fostering relationships within the local community, has made her an integral part of the MET team.
In her new role, Wintrol will oversee all aspects of MET’s administration, including financial management, strategic planning, fundraising, marketing and community engagement.
“I am honored and excited to take on this new role,” Wintrol said. “MET has been my home for the past six years, and Frederick has been my home for the majority of my lifetime. I’m excited to work alongside our talented staff and artists to continue producing high-quality performances while deepening our contribution to and collaboration with the community.”
Wintrol holds a Bachelor’s of Mu-
IEveryday Poetry
t’s been a year, right? And looks like it’s still going to be one for the rest of it, especially if you happen to be a federal civil servant.
I was one for 35 years. I took the oath, pledging my loyalty and service to the people of this country and the constitution, five times for five different agencies. I had a couple of clearances, one a top-secret Q clearance.
It’s always been hard to hear various White House administrations single out federal workers as slothful, privileged folk who waste taxpayer dollars. In truth, most federal staff really are working hard to serve our country, don’t make more money than the private sector, and are doing remarkable work.
enough wall space that I could hang pleasant things. One was a poster from a wonderful 1986 exhibition at the National Gallery.
The poster image is a painting by E. Martin Henning called “Passing By,” showing three Native Americans on horseback, catching some shade under a huge cottonwood tree. It’s beautiful and was the inspiration for an “ekphrastic” poem before I’d ever heard the word.
sic in musical theater from the Catholic University of America and a master’s in nonprofit and association management from the University of Maryland, Global Campus. Wintrol is a Frederick native and has made her career throughout the DMV theater scene as a performer, stage manager and administrator. Her promotion marks a significant step forward for the MET as the organization continues to expand its impact in the Frederick community and the greater D.C./Baltimore region.
Prior to her work at the MET, Wintrol served as director of education at Adventure Theatre MTC, the D.C. area’s longest running theater for young audiences. Wintrol recently returned to ATMTC to serve as interim executive director during a time of transition.
As a teaching artist and vocal coach, Wintrol has led classes and private lessons at Black Rock Center for the Arts, Drama Learning Center, ATMTC Academy, Ovations Theatre, Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts and the MET.
“Melynda has been connected to MET for such a long time, her depth of understanding of the ensemble, the organization and the community bring an incredible wealth of passion and expertise to this job,” said Tad Janes, founding artistic director o the MET.
To learn more about MET, visit marylandensemble.org.
At one point in my government adventure, my “office” was an alcove, but eventually I was lucky enough to warrant a room with a door, a window and
Ekphrastic poetry is written from inspiration provided by another art form, usually visual art. 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 sherylmassaro.com. Her poetry is in lower case as a nod to equality, no letter being more important than another.
Courtesy of Maryland Ensemble Theatre
Melynda Burdette Wintrol is the new managing director of the Maryland Ensemble Theatre.
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“Passing By,” by E. Martin Henning.
SHERYL MASSARO
FCPS Faculty Show — through March 30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Works in a variety of media. A salute to those who make Youth Art Month possible, this exhibition showcases the creative talents of FCPS educators. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.
FCPS Youth Art Month Student Exhibition — through March 30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Features hundreds of 2D and 3D artworks created by students from each public school in Frederick County. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.
“Elements of Grandeur: A Journey Through Nature Light And Form” — through March 30, Links Bridge Vineyards, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. Photographer Luna (Monika Greene) presents a world where nature, structure and light collide in moments of boldness and serenity. Luna is an artist and author. All artworks are limited editions. 301-6025733, linksbridgevineyards@gmail.com.
Gallery 322 Artists’ Exhibit — through March 30, Gallery B, 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda. Features works by all partner and associate artists of Gallery 322, in a variety of mediums. Gallery B hours are 3-7 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 301-215-7990, bethesda.org.
”Seasons: The Passage of Time” — through March 31, Creekside Art Gallery, 123 Congress St., Berkeley Springs, W.Va. Opening reception March 1, 4:306:30 p.m. Drawings and paintings by Janis Goodman, based upon observations of the sky, sea and land. Goodman is a professor of fine arts at the Corcoran College of Art at GW University, where she teaches drawing and painting. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday, until 6 p.m. Saturday and until 4 p.m. Sunday. creeksideprovisions@gmail.com.
“Wonderment: New Paintings by Kesra Hoffman” — through March 31, NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St., Frederick. Local landscape painter Kesra Hoffman will exhibit a new body of work, most of which are paintings from images gathered during her recent trips to Colorado and Michigan, as well as scenes from Maryland and Virginia. Hoffman, a native of Middletown, has painted landscapes of her home and travels since 1996. Artist talk from 2 to 3 p.m. March 15. Hours are noon to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays in March. 240367-9770, nomagalleryfrederick.com
“50 Shades of Green” — through March, Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Mother-daughter duo Arden McElroy and Jill Hossler are the featured artists, presenting show centered on the beautiful shades of green in the
Montgomery College’s Visual & Performing Arts Department of the Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus presents “Thresholds,” featuring artists Sean Riley and April Pauza, at the King Street Gallery from March 13 to April 18. The work explores the delicate interplay between illusion and reality and the complex emotional and physical spaces we inhabit. Riley’s landscapes blur the lines between shape, form and perception, while Pauza’s sculptures and installations delve into the ambivalence of home, using everyday materials to reconstruct fragile narratives of belonging and memory. An opening reception will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. March 13. King Street Gallery (CF Building, Montgomery College) is at 930 King St., Silver Spring. Shown here, “Shield,” by Riley.
landscapes found on our wondrous planet. From misty sage to the deepest forest green, the spectrum of greens can be found in Arden’s and Jill’s work. Noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sunday in March. eastsideartistsgallery.com.
”Glimpses of Light in the Everyday” — through April 1, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Artwork by Sara Swacina in the Main Gallery. Also, artwork by Bruce Etchison in the Michael G. Callas Gallery. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. 301-7913132, washingtoncountyarts.com.
”Not Past the Expiration Date!” — through April 9, Mary Condon Hodgson
by local youth selected as the 2025 Bettie Award winners. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine. org.
”Mix It Up!” — through April 27, Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. Features the county-wide artists of the Frederick County Art Association and their diverse talents. Call 301-4737680 for gallery hours.
”Mix It Up!” — through April 27, Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. The show features a variety of work by the Frederick County Art Association. 301-473-7680.
”The Sincerest Form: Master Art Copyists” — through May 11, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. Special project featuring the work of regionally based artists officially authorized as “master copyists” by the National Gallery of Art, creating on-site new copies based on MFA collection, Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. May 10, 1-3 p.m. Master Art Copyists close-out ceremony and panel discussion; free, light refreshments. 301-739-5727 or wcmfa.org.
”Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy” Honors Art Exhibition — March 13 to 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.
Cumberland Valley Photographers Exhibit — March 29-July 27, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. Juried, annual exhibition showcasing artists of the Cumberland Valley region. 301-739-5727 or wcmfa.org.
Art Gallery, Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Older in years but not in heart, four women have had their art blossom in their second or third acts of their adult lives. Although each comes from a different professional background, the love of abstract art and strong friendship binds them together. Features Linda Slattery Sherman, Marion L. Griffin, Gail Kaplan-Wassell and Joan April. MCH Gallery open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 301-846-2513 or wpoindexter@frederick.edu.
Bettie Awards Exhibition — through April 27, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. View artworks created
Kathryn E. Wentz Juried Undergraduate Exhibition — April 1-11, Esther Prangley Rice Gallery, McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. This annual exhibition highlights the best undergraduate work, such as painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. All students are invited to submit up to five works they have completed while studying at McDaniel College. Winners with pieces selected for the exhibition are announced during the opening reception. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. mcdaniel.edu.
Senior Capstone Exhibits — April 15 to 25 and April 29 to 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. 410-8572592 or mcdaniel.edu.
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Landless Theatre presents ‘City of Angels’ at New Spire Arts
Landless Theatre Company will kick off its 2025 season at New Spire Arts with the Tony Award-winning musical “City of Angels.”
This sexy and witty homage to the golden age of Hollywood will run from March 14 to 16, setting the stage for a year of engaging stories and dynamic performances.
“City of Angels” interweaves the stories of a 1940s detective novelist and his hardboiled fictional creation. Writer Stine is swept up in the whirlwind of Hollywood debauchery as he struggles to adapt his book into a screenplay, while protagonist Stone juggles life in a film-noir netherworld of thugs and femme fatales with a slew of egregious rewrites. It’s a mystery and romantic comedy rolled into one, set to a swinging jazz score.
The show boasts a scat jazz quartet (The Angel City 4) under the direction of Hood College’s Lisa Duva Dodson, along with a cast of regional and local actors, including Jen Ayers Drake (“Terrifier 3”) as Alaura Kingsley.
“Angels is a rarely produced gem of musical theater from the 1980s, yet somehow still timely in its themes of artistic integrity, the clash between creativity and commerce, and the struggle for personal morality in a changing world,” said producing artistic director Andrew Lloyd
5 WEEK SESSION JUNE 23 - JULY 24
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Baughman, who appears in the show and co-directs with Tori Weaver. “It’s also funny in a way that we haven’t seen for a while, and audiences need a good laugh.”
Landless Theatre Company’s 2025 season will continue with “Damn Yankees” (May 23 to 25), the classic musical tale of America’s favorite
pastime with a Faustian twist; Aaron Sorkin’s gripping military courtroom drama “A Few Good Men” (July 11 to 13), a powerful story of honor, duty and justice in the U.S. Marine Corps; and the premiere of “Evil Librarian” (Nov. 14 to 16), a new musical based on Michelle Knudsen’s YA fantasyromance novel, following high school
students as they uncover the dark secret of their new librarian — who just happens to be a demon.
Tickets are available at weinbergcenter.org. For more information on Landless Theatre Company’s 2025 season, visit landlesstheatrecompany.org or follow them on social media for updates.
Femme fatale Alaura Kingslet (Jen Ayers Drake) in “City of Angels.”
Andrew Baughman
BY JENNIFER LEE
Special to The News-Post
Frederick native Neil Markey leads psychedelic retreats
Neil Markey, who grew up in Frederick and whose family history traces back 300 years here, partnered with Amanda Feilding, a leading researcher and policy reformer in the field of psychedelics, to found Beckley Retreats, a wellness company offering group psilocybin retreats in Jamaica and the Netherlands.
Markey, who is also a veteran of U.S. Army Special Operations 2nd Ranger Battalion and MBA/MIA Columbia University graduate, said he and the Beckley Retreats staff are changing lives through psychedelics — specifically psilocybin, the active compound in “magic mushrooms.”
It’s not just the trip you’ll fall in love with, he says, but the experience.
During the immersion phrase, participants will engage with meditation, mindful movement, breathwork, group circles and nature, all while digitally detoxing.
In a word, Beckley Retreats is a ceremony for the body, mind and soul.
Markey was recently accepted into the Harvard Masters in Public Health program and will attend part-time starting this fall.
“I will continue researching the benefits of these programs and exploring what needs to happen from a systems and policy perspective to improve safe access globally,” he said.
We caught up with Markey recently via email to learn more.
What is the vision and mission of Beckley Retreats?
Beckley Retreats believes a healthier, more beautiful world is possible.
Rooted in our pioneering legacy, modern science, and ancient wisdom, we offer holistic, communal psychedelic programs designed to improve wellbeing. Through immersive experiences, expert guidance and the power of community, we empower individuals to foster deep personal growth, emotional resilience and a greater sense of connection.
What programs does Beckley Retreats offer to fulfill its mission?
We offer five-night, integrative health programs that utilize psilocybin mushrooms as a catalyst for deep personal growth. These programs are designed to provide a safe, structured and science-backed environment where participants can explore expanded states of consciousness, develop new habits and gain clarity on life’s biggest questions.
trip Take a of a lifetime
Psilocybin is changing lives at Beckley Retreats
Retreats focus on building connections to self and others.
Our programs extend far beyond the retreat itself. We provide comprehensive preparation and post-retreat integration support, ensuring that insights gained are transformed into meaningful, lasting change.
How do you define holistic wellness?
Holistic wellness recognizes that we are complex, interconnected beings, and true health extends beyond just physical symptoms.
In contrast to Western medicine’s reductionist approach, where different systems of the body — heart, gut, brain — are treated in isolation, holistic wellness takes a whole-person approach, addressing the mind-body connection, emotional and spiritual well-being and root causes, rather than just symptoms.
At Beckley Retreats, we integrate modern science, ancient wisdom and community support.
How does Beckley Retreats
combine modern science with traditional and holistic wellness?
We bridge cutting-edge scientific research with time-honored wisdom to create transformative experiences.
We collaborate with top researchers from Yale, Johns Hopkins, Imperial Colslege London and The Beckley Foundation to ensure our programs are supported by rigorous research.
in
Retreats offer more than psychedelics; they are transformational circles, engaging with the natural world, and coming
What is psilocybin, and why is it considered safe?
Psilocybin is the active compound in “magic mushrooms” that produces altered states of consciousness.
While no psychedelic is inherently safe without the right context, psilocybin has a strong safety profile compared to many pharmaceutical drugs.
However, set and setting are crucial — who you are with, your mental state, the environment, and your preparation all dramatically affect the experience. This is why professional facilitation is essential. Why is psychedelic healing gaining mainstream attention now?
Many people feel let down by prescription medications that treat symptoms rather than root causes. Institutions like Yale, Johns Hopkins and Harvard are publishing compelling studies on the effectiveness of psychedelics. Books like “How to Change Your Mind,” by Michael Pollan, along with documentaries and podcasts, have educated millions. And high-profile figures, including Steve Jobs, Aaron Rodgers, Mike Tyson and Prince Harry, have openly discussed how psychedelics changed their lives.
We have spent years learning from indigenous wisdom keepers and traditional healers who have worked with these medicines for centuries.
By blending neuroscience, mindfulness, somatic practices and structured integration, we ensure that participants don’t just have a powerful experience but create lasting change. Why psychedelics for transformation?
Psychedelics are not for everyone, and they are not a magic pill, but for those who are ready and in the right environment, they can be truly extraordinary tools for growth and healing.
While much of the clinical research focuses on psychedelics for PTSD and depression, we also see immense benefits for well people.
Psilocybin mushrooms are neuroregenerative. They help the brain form new neural connections, which can promote cognitive flexibility and creativity.
They are facilitators of deep introspection. They allow people to break out of negative thought loops, shift perspectives and process past experiences in a new light. And they are nontoxic and nonaddictive, unlike many pharmaceuticals.
At Beckley Retreats, we provide expert facilitation, comprehensive preparation and post-retreat integration to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
The combination of scientific validation, personal testimonials and societal openness has led to a cultural shift.
How is Beckley Retreats influencing psychedelic policy?
We believe in responsible access and are actively shaping the future of psychedelic policy. We conduct research with Imperial College London and Heroic Hearts on how psychedelics can benefit veterans with traumatic brain injures. We regularly participate in panels, conferences and discussions with policymakers to advocate for responsible regulation.
Who should consider attending one of your retreats?
Our Signature Program is designed for people who are already generally well but are seeking deeper fulfillment, clarity and presence in their lives.
Most of our guests are professionals, entrepreneurs and creatives who are looking to improve focus and performance, reset their nervous system, process major life transitions or loss, strengthen emotional resilience, or foster deeper connections with themselves and others.
Unlike medical psychedelic programs that focus on treating specific disorders, our retreats support individuals looking to cultivate lasting happiness.
How does Beckley Retreats support veterans?
We are deeply committed to
(See BECKLEY 17)
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Neil Markey, cofounder of Beckley Retreats, is from Frederick.
transformational experiences that offer growth through meditation, mindful movement, breathwork, group coming together in community — without our phones.
in the Netherlands, shown here. They also host retreats in Jamaica.
Teelin Irish Dance returns to the Weinberg stage with their show Celtic Journey
Experience the spirit and energy of Ireland as Teelin Irish Dance Company returns to the Weinberg Center stage with their celebrated production, Celtic Journey, at 7 p.m. March 15. Known for their inventive choreography and dynamic performances, Teelin Irish Dance Company captivates audiences with a fusion of traditional Irish step dance and contemporary movement.
Founded in 2001 and based in Columbia, the Teelin Irish Dance Company has performed on prestigious stages locally, nationally and internationally. Their reputation for artistic excellence is reflected in their original feature-length stage productions, including Portraits of Ireland (2006-2011), Step Dance (2012-2013), Sláinte (2014) and Celtic Storm (2016-2019).
Under the direction of award-winning choreographer Maureen Berry, the company’s innovative style has earned them recognition, including the 2009 Individual Artist Award for Choreography from the Maryland State Arts Council and the 2016 Howie Award from the Howard County Arts Council.
Teelin Irish Dance Company has shared the spotlight with acclaimed artists such as The Young Irelanders, Cherish the Ladies, Gaelic Storm and Eileen Ivers.
Tickets start at $25and are available at weinbergcenter.org, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828, or in person at 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick.
The Frederick Symphony Orchestra, the Frederick Chorale, and Charm City Sings Chamber Chorus join together to present a truly fabulous concert experience.
Featuring Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem, Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy, and more, with concertmaster and violin soloist Alyssa Boxhill and Hood College faculty member and piano soloist Kuei-l Wu. For tickets and information, visit fredericksymphony.org or frederickchorale.org
Kuei-I Wu piano soloist
Alyssa Boxhill violin soloist
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Teelin Irish Dance will perform at the Weinberg Center.
BECKLEY
(Continued from 15)
supporting veterans and have partnered with Imperial College London and Heroic Hearts, a veteranled 501c(3) nonprofit, to develop programs specifically for veterans recovering from traumatic brain injuries and PTSD.
We have raised and deployed over $150,000 for veteran healing initiatives and expect to publish groundbreaking research in 2025 demonstrating the significant impact of psilocybin-assisted experiences on veteran well-being.
The early results are profound, helping veterans regain clarity and reduce symptoms of trauma.
What exciting new developments are coming?
We are expanding our impact in 2025 with two major initiatives. One is a U.S.-based ketamine program. We are planning to launch ketamine-assisted experiences in the U.S., providing a legal, science-backed path for those seeking profound personal growth and transformation.
Sage is lit during a retreat.
We are also in the final stages of launching a joint venture in a part of the world where psychedelic healing was once unimaginable. This initiative, backed by visionary leaders, is a huge step toward global access. We expect to announce the partnership in the coming months.
This interview has been edited for space and clarity.
To learn more about Beckley Retreats, visit beckleyretreats.com.
Screenwriter and poet Zorina Frey will talk at MWA meeting
BY ERIN JONES
Special to The News-Post
“Are you a poet?”
The question caught Zorina Frey off guard. After all, she had been using poetry to make sense of a difficult time in her life. She even carried her notebook with her, even during play rehearsal, writing when the opportunity arose. She thought her writing was just for her, but it did not escape the notice of the play’s director, who posed the question to her as he glanced over her shoulder.
“Yes,” she replied. “I am a poet.” Her director suggested she come to a monthly gathering at a cafe, where she learned to share her writing through spoken word po etry.
“Writing was one thing, but then to speak it was giving my words life — empowering, giv ing me back my life. I was able to talk myself out of my situation and believe in myself,” Frey said.
A writing journey that began speaking her own words would eventually come to include screenwrit ing, crafting words for characters to speak on screen. On March 15, Frey will be helping others learn to do the same when she speaks at the Maryland Writers Association Frederick County chapter meeting on the topic. Scripting Live Action will take place over Zoom at 1 p.m.
The screenwriting event will include the structural components of both fea tures and TV writing, as well as the character and scene development. Frey also plans to discuss how writ ers can adapt their own books or work into a screenplay.
While chapter meetings are open to the public and free to first-time guests, Frey recom
mends all writers to become connected with a writing group. Writing in community has been a value Frey has cultivated throughout her career.
Upon moving to Maryland three years ago, Frey searched online to find out whether Maryland had a writers association and quickly became connected with MWA. When she lived in Miami, she was a part of the South Florida Writers Association and knew the value that a community can bring to a writer’s life. Now a resident of Stevensville in Queen
with a writers group makes it easy to find “your people,” Frey said. Even a big group of writers can branch off into niches that provide support and camaraderie.
Having a wide network can be particularly useful to someone like Frey who deals in multiple genres of writing. It was her experience in spoken word that led her to return to school. One open mic experience at Indiana University in South Bend was particularly pivotal on her
“I remember being very intimidated in front of all these educated people,” Frey said. “I said my poem, and they gave me a standing ovation, and long story short, I enrolled and got my bachelor’s there.”
In addition to her screenwriting, her poetry has also garnered awards and publications, including the 2023 Pushcart Prize for Poetry. Rather than seeing a divide between genres, she finds that she moves easily from one to the next in her craft.
“Poetry has opened up so many and continues to open up so many doors because screenwriting to me is script and script is poetry,” Frey said. What advice does she have for aspiring writers? It’s the same advice she would give to an experienced writer: never stop learning.
“ Always look for how to improve your craft, even after you’ve won a few things.
It was during her undergraduate studies that Frey first took screenwriting classes, and her work was published in the literary journal. While poetry took center stage in her writing focus her screenwriting skills later re-emerged at a critical moment in her writing career.
ZORINA FREY, actress
“Always look for how to improve your craft, even after you’ve won a few things. Always humble yourself to take another course, even from somebody who may have not gotten as far as you, but you don’t know where they’ve been and what they’ve learned,” Frey said.
In 2019, Frey attended the Thursday night premiere of “Joker.” When the credits rolled, she felt that the story wasn’t over. By Monday, she had written five pages of her screenplay “Harley Quinn Origins.”
“It was an instance where inspiration hit all of a sudden,” Frey said. “I hadn’t picked up any type of software or anything. I just went by what I remembered in undergrad and just started typing it out.”
A friend invited her to a group called Naked Angels, where writers could bring 10 pages of script to be cold read by actors. “That was the catalyst that encouraged me to keep writing the script,” Frey said. “It was just a really great community.”
That screenplay would not only be awarded acceptance into the Birmingham Film Festival in England but would win her an honorable mention. Frey and a writer friend flew to the UK where the film festival quite literally rolled out the red carpet.
“The red carpet was magical. Everybody was just gorgeous, even the people who were behind the scenes,” Frey said. “Talk about movie magic.”
In addition to speaking engagements and workshops, like that at MWA, Frey is also a college professor, teaching English at Chesapeake College and Howard Community College. She would love to teach a course in screenwriting or film as literature based on movies in the Marvel universe.
“Say what you want about the superhero thing, but when you peel back the costumes, there is some really great writing,” Frey said. “The way that they’ve been able to create an arc over a decade, it’s just phenomenal, and I don’t think that they get enough credit for that.”
Who better to teach that course than a writer who discovered, or perhaps rediscovered, one of her own superpowers while sitting in a movie theater?
For more information about MWA, go to marylandwriters.org.
For more information on Zorina Frey, visit zorina-frey.com.
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.
Zorina Frey
Courtesy photo
Local Mentions
Local Mentions
2025 BIG MONEY CASH BASH
Sat May 17, 2025
Thurmont Community Ambulance
Thurmont Events Complex Building 13716 Strafford Drive, Thurmont, MD 21788
Bring Your Lawn Chairs & Canopy
Gates Open 10:00 a m
Food, Can Beer, Wine Coolers and Soda included 12:00 - 5:00 p m NO COOLERS ALLOWED
Drawing beings 11:45 a m • Winner Every 5 Minutes
Must be off premises by 8:00 p m
$20 00 Per Person
No patrons under 18 - ID Required - Must present ticket to enter gate No pets except service animals NO CARRYOUTS ALLOWED Ticket holder can win multiple prizes PHOTO
301-748-5359 or 301-271-3820 or Any Friday Night at Complex 5:00 p m -10:00 p m
ALL YOU CAN EAT
Wings & Steamed Shrimp
Sat March 22, 2025
$25 00
Doors open: 4 p m
Meal Served: 6:00 p.m.
Variety of Wings, Steamed Shrimp, Hot Dogs, French Fries, MD Crab Soup, Soda, Beer and Wine Coolers
Photo ID Required
ATM Available 50/50, Tip Jars
Thurmont Event Complex 13716 Strafford Drive
Thurmont, MD 21788
For tickets: 301-271-3820 or 301-748-5359 Limited Seating; Tickets will go Fast
CHICKEN AND HAM SLIPPERY POT PIE LUNCH
Friday, March 28
11 a m to 1 p m
$15 00 at Frederick Church of the Brethren 201 Fairview Ave, Frederick
CASH BINGO
sponsored by
Woodsboro Lutheran Church
Saturday, April 5th at Woodsboro
American Legion, 101 W Elizabeth Street; Doors open @ noon, games at 1:30 pm
$30 for 22 games; includes two specials @ $100, And $500 jackpot King Tuts, bingo balls, holder jars, door prizes, food and bake table available For reservations, call Peggy @301-5147164
COUNTRY BREAKFAST
Sat March 15 • 6:30a-10:30a Petersville Farmers and Ruritan Clubs
Adults: $12 00
Child: $6 00
Farmers Woods, Rte 79 3816 Petersville Rd
Local Mentions
CASH BINGO
Woodsboro Volunteer Fire Company March 17, 2025
More than $1000 In Prizes Per Night Call Jo Ann 240-446-0451 For Information At the Fire Hall
2 South 3rd Street, Woodsboro, MD
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Games begin at 7 p m
Show a newspaper or social media ad (or a repost) and get a FREE special Food and beverages available for purchase NO Outside food or drinks allowed
CHILDREN’S EASTER BINGO
Woodsboro Volunteer Fire Company
Sunday, April 6, 2025
Doors Open At 11:30AM Games Start At 1:00 PM
$6 00 per person
Adults must be accompanied by a child Call Jo Ann for Info 240-446-0451
Reservations Recommended At the Fire Hall
2 South 3rd Street, Woodsboro, MD Food and beverages available for purchase NO Outside food or drinks allowed
$1000 Jackpot / $100 Prize per game 20 Games / Sixpacks for $40
Sunday March 23rd
Doors open @ 11:30 / Games start @ 1 p m
Woodsboro Volunteer Fire Co 2 South Third St , Woodsboro, MD For reservations and info Call Joann at: 240-446-0451
Maximum 150 players Food and beverages available for purchase NO Outside food or drinks allowed
HENRY'S BLACKTOP PAVING, LLC
301-663-1888 • 301-416-7229 henrysblacktoppaving @gmail com Call for FREE est. MHIC 3608
IMMEDIATE DELIVERY of Calla Lilies, Pansies, and Primroses Beautiful Plants! Large shipment of red, brown, & black Premium Mulch - 2 ft bags, wholesale prices from our lot Delivery Avail Only at DR Virts 800 Petersville Rd, Brunswick, Md - 240 285-7141 or 301-969-6115 Come on down and see me! Cash & Cards
OPENING MAY 10, 2025!
Welcome to our farm stand!
Onion sets & potatoes
Veggie plants: broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, & more
8:00 am – 2:00 pm 12027 South St Libertytown, MD 21762
Crafts, Homemade goodies, sandwiches, soups, bake table, raffles and much more
For more information & table rental Call Mary 301-401-2824
Sponsored by: Libertytown Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary
SPRING BIG $ BINGO
Sat 4/5, Dinner 4:30 Games 6:30. Includes: 14 Reg Games, 2 Specials & JP all totaling over $9000
$60 PP Advance; $65 @ Door Call 301-8292510
LVFD reserves the right to reduce payouts if less than 150 pp No Refunds
SPRING CONCERT SERIES IN THE UNION CHURCH
3 PM Start Time
March 16th: Mark Nichols & Friends Jazz Ensemble April 27th: Emmitsburg
Community Chorus
Spring Concert
May 4th: Flute Choir
Spring Concert
May 4th: Mother's Day Weekend
Free will offering collected for all events
St John's Lutheran Church of Creagerstown 8619 Blacks Mill Road Creagerstown, MD
TURKEY, FRIED OYSTER & COUNTRY HAM DINNER
March 22, 2025 12 noon-5 pm
No ticket sales before 11 am
In-house menu includes fried oysters, turkey, country ham, mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, sauerkraut, cranberry sauce, dressing, cole slaw, rolls, ice tea, hot tea and coffee Prices: Adults $30, Children 6-12: $8, under 6 - free Carry-outs $1 extra (carry out menu slightly different than in-house) Bush Creek Church of the Brethren 4821A Green Valley Rd Rt 75 South Monrovia, Md 21770 301-865-3013 Facebook com/BCCob1855
Local Mentions
WEEKLY BINGO
Every Friday Night Doors open @ 5 p m , Bingo starts @ 7 p.m.
Saturday April 5, 2025 8a m-1:00p m For reservations call Karen at 301-639-7770
TIMELESS
TREASURES ESTATE SALE
April 3-5 • 9am-3pm 2612 Monocacy Ford Rd (Woman’s Mill)
Estate sale for downsizing collector Lots of great collections and household items
Lionel Train, Fostoria, Daltons, tools, twin bed set barely used Bodine signed lithographs, 1940’s toy car, art work, cedar chest, German ornaments & figures, Gone with the Wind collectibles, eldercare equipment, Linda Hartough signed prints, side tables, antique books, dishes Stoneware and Crocks Picture frames
Larger items include- desk, antique couch, grandfather clock, newer 10 person dining set with hutch Household items galore
Furniture/Appliances
CHAIRS AND MORE OFFICE FURTNITURE
300 New & Restored Home & Office Chairs from Only $50 to $900 – Featuring Top Brands like Herman Miller, Eurotech, Steelcase & More! All offers will be considered Call Stuart at Chairs and More Office Furniture by appointment only 301-385-7917 smilinstu@gmail com
Yard Sales Services Services
LAWN CARE
• Appliance
• Bed and Mattress
• Mulch Delivery
• Lawnmower & Equipment Removal
• Light Demo
• Welding repairs and fabrication
• Hauling needs
• Dump trailer available for rent
Saturday, March 15, 2025 (9am-4pm) Sunday, March 16, 2025 (9am-1:30pm)
Paperbacks $1 (or 5 for $4) Puzzles $2 Hardbacks $3 (or 4 for $10) Vinyl Records $2
Proceeds Support Social Justice Projects frederickuu org/booksale
LANDSCAPING
Leave the hard work to us! Spring Cleaning, Mulching, Mowing Hardscaping Call J & R Cornerstone at 301-473-0449
Expecting calls any time! FREE ESTIMATE
Thursday March 13
CLASSES
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. www.thecenterfrederick.com.
March Collage Club: Channeling Our Inner Lions and Lambs — 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Cowork Frederick, 122 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Using the practices of SoulCollage, explore self-love and your love for others. No experience necessary — just bring your creativity and an open mind. Materials provided. Come at 6 p.m. to learn about the SoulCollage process and what makes it different from other collaging practices. 21 and older, pre-register. $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
Cecilia Bowens Phenomenal Woman Awards — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Naganna Forum, Roj Student Center, McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. Organized by McDaniel’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, this annual banquet honors phenomenal women on McDaniel’s campus. 410-857-2459. odei@mcdaniel.edu.
Frederick Restaurant Week and Collab Week — throughout Frederick. Restaurant Week continues through March 8. Collab Week runs March 9-15 with food and beverage establishments joining forces to showcase downtown’s culinary and craft beverage scene. See the full schedule online. bitesandbevsfrederick.com.
Senior Cafe: The Place to Come for Coffee, Conversation, Friendship and Fun Events! — Ask a Jeweler — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Stacey Krantz, from inBloom Jewelry, is excited to show you how she can transform your personal style, intentions, and vision into a unique piece of jewelry, using items from your home or her collection. 21 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.
Onsite Digital Learning — 10 a.m. to noon at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, 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 Regional Library this month. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
200 Monroe Restaurant — 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Monroe Center, 200 Monroe Ave., Frederick. Frederick Community College (FCC) invites you to enjoy a gourmet dinner created by the students at 200 Monroe Restaurant! Guests will enjoy a first course, entree, and dessert freshly made by the baking and pastry class. Reservations are required. $40-$48. hcti@frederick.edu. opentable.com/200-monroe.
Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo — 5 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Dept., 101 High St., New Windsor . Every Tuesday night. Doors open 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Food and drinks available. 410-596-6313. d_pstrine@msn.com. info@nwfd10.org.
Tween Gaming Hour: Switch Edition — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Play our Nintendo Switch or bring your own and play with friends! Open to all skill levels for ages 9-13. 301-600-7200.
Teen Time: RecyclePOP Trivia — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Test your Knowledge of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Pop Culture and become a Champion! This fun teen trivia challenge is presented in partnership with the Frederick County Division of Solid Waste & Recycling. This program is for teens in 6th through 12th grades (ages 11-18). 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
Ask An Artist (ages 11-18) — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Curious about a career in the arts? Meet local artists, hear their success stories, and find your inspiration! 301-600-7000. ljean@frederickcountymd.gov.
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. www.fcpl.org.
Curious Iguana Presents: Author Talk + Signing with Megan Barnard — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Give Rise Studio, 125 S. Carroll St., #101, Frederick. Experience a mystical winter with author Megan Barnard who will discuss her new novel, “The Winter Goddess.” Megan will share about her reimagining of an Irish myth that teaches us about the beauty of being human and the love of being alive. Afterwards, Megan will answer questions and sign books. Copies of “The Winter Goddess” will be available for purchase at the event. 18 and older. 240-575-4496. curiousiguanaevents@gmail.com.
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: Go for the Green Art! — 2 p.m. to 2:45 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 designed for children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. 301-600-7200.
Read to a Therapy Dog with WAGS for Hope — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Come share a story with a specially trained therapy dog from WAGS for Hope! 301-600-6329. CDillman@frederickcountymd.gov.
Youth Art Night — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at
Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. The Emmitsburg Library welcomes students, parents, and faculty of Emmitsburg Elementary School and the community for a night of art exploration. Attendees will enjoy participating in hands-on art projects and be able to view a variety of artwork created by Emmitsburg Elementary School students. 301-600-6329. CDillman@frederickcountymd.gov. www.fcpl.org.
Pajama Storytime — 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Meets weekly for songs, stories, games and more. PJ’s optional! 301-600-6333. dspurrier@frederickcountymd.gov. fcpl.org.
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.
FILM
Wonder Book Classic Film Series Presents “Double Indemnity” (1944) — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. In 1938, Walter Neff, an experienced salesman of the Pacific All Risk Insurance Co., meets the seductive wife of one of his clients, Phyllis Dietrichson, and they have an affair. Phyllis proposes to kill her husband to receive the proceeds of an accident insurance policy and Walter devises a scheme to receive twice the amount based on a double indemnity clause. When Mr. Dietrichson is found dead on a train track, the police accept the determination of accidental death. However, the insurance
SATURDAY APRIL 5TH • 10:00AM - 2:00PM
analyst and Walter’s best friend Barton Keyes does not buy the story and suspects that Phyllis has murdered her husband with the help of another man. $7. 301-600-2868. bhiller@cityoffrederick.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ double-indemnity-1944.
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. 301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.
Friday
March 14
Dinner in the Dark — 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Walkersville Grand Social Hall, 79 W. Frederick St., Walkersville. Gives the diner the experience of life without sight. Ticket includes appetizers, dinner, dessert. Hosted by Glade Valley Lions Club and WHS LEO Club. Proceeds benefit Leader Dogs for the Blind.
$60 with blindfold, $65 without blindfold. 301-788-0526. gladevalleylions@gmail.com. emmitsburgevents.com.
CLASSES
The Music of the Frederick Symphony Orchestra - Dona Nobis Pacem Concert — 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Frederick Community College , 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Examine the music of an upcoming FSO concert through a lecture presentation, recorded music, and live demonstrations. Learn about the composer(s) and take time to ask questions and engage in a conversation about the music. Then if you choose, attend the actual FSO concert. Tickets can be purchased directly through the FSO. Please check their webpage for the exact concert details including dates and location. Pre-registration required. $16. 301-846-2561. ILR@frederick.edu. tinyurl.com/DonaNobis28239.
ETCETERA
Frederick Restaurant Week and Collab Week — 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. at Frederick, . Restaurant Week continues through March 8. Collab Week runs March 9-15 with food and beverage establishments joining forces to showcase downtown’s culinary and craft beverage scene. See the full schedule online.
bitesandbevsfrederick.com.
Fantastic Fossils: A Sensory Program for Adults with Developmental Disabilities — 11 a.m. to noon at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Come learn about the fabulous world of fossils from geologist and paleontologist Dr. Jessica Lawrence-Wujek of GTC Rock Shop! We invite all adults with developmental disabilities to join us for this fun and informative sensory event! 18 and older. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo — 5 p.m. to
9:10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Dept., 101 High St., New Windsor . Every Tuesday night. Doors open 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Food and drinks available. 410-596-6313. d_pstrine@msn.com. info@nwfd10.org.
Mead & Read Trivia at Orchid Cellar Meadery — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Orchid Cellar Meadery & Winery, 8546 Pete Wiles Road, Middletown. Gather a team of up to 6 people for a fun night of trivia at Orchid Cellar Meadery & Winery. Questions will be inspired by Wicked by Gregory Maguire. The winning team will receive two free flights of mead. Team registration opens at 5:30 p.m. Trivia will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Cheese platters & snacks are available for purchase. You are also welcome to bring your own food. Ages 21 & up. 301-600-8350.
frederick.librarycalendar.com.
Dan Cronin Acoustic Music — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. Fingerpickin’ enthusiast Dan Cronin hits the stage! Guitar and harmonica capture the infectious good time sounds of ragtime and country blues. 240-575-9755. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.
Bethesda Essay & Short Story Awards Night — 7 p.m. at The Bethesdan Hotel, 8120 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda. Join Bethesda Urban Partnership and Bethesda Magazine for the 2025 Essay & Short Story Awards & Reading. Winning writer’s will read their work followed by a reception. 240-543-4962. equinn@bethesda.org. www.bethesda.org/bethesda/localwriters.
FAMILY
Knights of Columbus, Friday Lenten Fish Dinners — 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Parish Hall, 114 E. Second St., Frederick. Fridays through April 11. Choice of to-go curb service or indoor dining. To-go curb service drive up (never leave your car, all items packed in microwaveable containers, sides are limited); pre-order available by 4 p.m. at kofc1622. square.site. All-you-can-eat baked or fried fish for indoor dining. Child’s plate available. $14. 301-305-2127. s atterf@comcast.net. kofc1622.org.
Magically Delicious Kids Cookie Party —
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Dessert Depot, 1502 S. Main St., Suite 105, Mount Airy. Kids can join The Dessert Depot for a sweet and creative evening decorating cookies with a St. Patrick’s Day twist! Each child will get eight pre-baked, delicious mini cookies to decorate how they wish with guidance from an instructor! Cookies will be taken home in a festive Lucky Charms treat bag to enjoy later. Reserve your seat and check out future classes online. $45 per child. thedessertdepot.com.
HEALTH
Chair Yoga — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at MIddletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Gentle chair yoga, suitable for all abilities. 301-600-7560. lgrackin@frederickcountymd.gov. fcpl.org/calendar.
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.
Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. A unique and lively experience. Enjoy a dynamic performance of two pianists engaging in a musical duel, guiding you through a diverse repertoire of timeless classics, contemporary hits and more. Whether your musical preferences lean towards rock, blues, jazz, pop, or country, there’s something for everyone to relish. Audience participation is encouraged, so bring your musical requests and be part of the excitement! With limited tickets available, seize the opportunity to be a part of this unforgettable experience. Ages 21 and above only.
$24 - $40. 301-790-2000. boxoffice@mdtheatre.org.
The Known Agitators — 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Bentztown, 6 S. Bentz St., Frederick. Join this exciting band for an evening of rock and blues. The band is made up of Mary Shaver, Michael Tash, Dean Dalton and Raice McLeod. Two-time WAMMIE award-winning vocalist Mary Shaver is first and foremost a blues artist influenced by the likes of Slim Harpo, Muddy Waters, Big Mama Thornton and Etta James. She labels her own style as “Texas, Louisiana and Chicago Blues meets Memphis Soul,” and local critics and musicians have likened her powerful voice to all her idols.
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. 301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.
THEATER
Murder at the Mansion: “Home Sweet Homicide” — 8 p.m. at Kentlands Mansion, 320 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg. Also March 15 at 2 and 8 p.m. World-famous detective Hemlock Holmes has just returned from a trip to a sanatorium in upstate New York, where he visited a long-lost cousin. To the surprise of his sidekick, Whatsun, Holmes has brought his cousin, Elmira, back home. When Whatsun discovers that Elmira is a stunning woman with a rare condition called Disrobe-a-phobia, she’s both shocked and jealous! (Yes, Whatsun is also a woman.) Mystery and intrigue intensify when Dr. Charles Ovary and his nurse arrive to cure Elmira —and the doctor becomes as smitten with Elmira as Holmes is! Buffet of sweet treats. Beer and wine sales. Ages 15 and older.
LTE Academy — 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Frederick County Public Libraries, 110 E Patrick St, Frederick. Frederick News-Post Editor Andy Schotz will talk about opinion writing, particularly letters to the editor (LTE), then open it up to the audience for questions and comments. All are welcome.
240-215-8630. aschotz@newspost.com.
CLASSES
CPR and First Aid for Pets — 9 a.m. to noon at The Monroe Center, 200 Monroe Ave., Frederick. This course will teach participants what to do in an emergency situation with their pets, who to call for emergency care, and basic first aid and CPR skills. Learn chest compressions and basic CPR skills for animals. First Aid will focus on wound care and controlling bleeding, pet vital signs, pet health assessment, and basic medical emergencies for pets. Instructors will observe students, provide feedback, and guide them through hands-on skills learning. Pre-registration required.
$75. 240-629-7907.
healthcarecareers@frederick.edu.
Creating a Flower Cutting Garden & Flower Arrangements — 10 a.m. to noon at University of Maryland Extension Office, 330 Montevue Lane, Frederick. Learn how to design, plant and harvest flowers from your own cutting garden. Discover the best sun and shade annuals for cutting and how to maintain the garden for maximum production. We also will demonstrate techniques for creating arrangements. 301-600-1596. strice@umd.edu. bit.ly/FCMG25-FlowersCuttingGarden.
Needle Felting Workshop — 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Common Market, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. This fun, project-based needle felting class is perfect for beginners! All supplies and materials are provided, so you can dive right in and learn the basics of sculpting with soft sheep’s wool. You’ll create an adorable little gnome to take home at the end of the session. While this is an adult class, participants ages 8 and up are welcome to join in the creative fun and discover the art of needle felting!
Frederick Restaurant Week and Collab Week — 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. at Frederick, . Restaurant Week continues through March 8. Collab Week runs March 9-15 with food and beverage establishments joining forces to showcase downtown’s culinary and craft beverage scene. See the full schedule online.
bitesandbevsfrederick.com.
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.
50th Annual Frederick Home & Garden Expo — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Presented by the Frederick County Building Industry Association. With over 150 exhibitors across the construction, home services, outdoor living, and green home solutions industries, the expo is your chance to explore, shop and compare vibrant local businesses in person like never before! Family activities include learn to plant a seed, Pirate Magic and T-ball with Keyote. New for 2025 — DIY info sessions on spring cleaning, organizing, gardening and more, and skilled trades job fair. Full schedule online. 301-663-3599. events@frederickbuilders.org. www.frederickexpo.org.
Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Jewelry Show — 10 a.m. to 6 a.m. at Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut St., Gaithersburg. Two floors of vendors, demonstrators and exhibits. Gold panning, Fluorescent minerals, and plenty of activities for the kids. $7 ages 12 and up. Free for children 11 and under. glmsmc.com.
Genealogy Workshop — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at C Burr Artz Library, 10 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Learn about DAR and help with member applications. 240-675-9252. dottieolson@hotmail.com.
Monthly Collection for Little Sisters of the Poor. — 10 a.m. to noon at In front of , 114 E. Second St., Frederick. St. John’s Council #1622, Frederick, is serving as the hub location for councils in Western Maryland every third Saturday for the monthly KofC Maryland State Program to provide material support to the Little Sisters of the Poor’s St. Martin’s Home in Baltimore. 301-305-2127. satterf@comcast.net. www.kofc1622.org/little-sisters.html.
Adopt-a-Road Trash Clean Up with Fox Haven Farm (Poffenberger Road) — noon to 2 p.m. at Fox Haven Farm & Retreat Center, 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson. Let’s join forces and clean up our streets, one piece of trash at a time. Let’s make our neighborhood shine! Please RSVP. 240-490-5484. info@foxhavenfarm.org. foxhavenfarm.org/events/adopt-a-roadtrash-clean-up-2.
Knitting Help Circle — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Calling all knitters — whether you’re a seasoned pro, a curious beginner, or somewhere in between! The Knitting Help Circle is a cozy and collaborative space where Frederick’s fiber enthusiasts come together to stitch, learn, and share. Limited knitting supplies will be available for use. 18 and older. eschenkelberg@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
Wicked Book Club — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Common Market Co-op, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. Join The Wicked Years Book Club,
a low-key club that is focused on reading the four books written by Gregory Maguire focusing on the wicked years. Email for book reading schedule. 301-663-3416. frederick.bookclub@gmail.com.
Unplugged and Unfiltered a Singer-Songwriter Music Spotlight Series — 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Suite K, Frederick. Will Sims presents “Unplugged and Unfiltered.” A singer-songwriter spotlight series that will feature established songwriters from the Maryland area as well as an opportunity for up-and-coming writers to share what they have been working on. Featured artists will have 30 minute sets. We will then open the mic for local songwriters to perform. Featured performers: Will Sims, The Man in the Flames, Ainsley McGray, John Wysong, Hilly Jude. 240-575-9755. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.
Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo — 5 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Dept., 101 High St., New Windsor . Every Tuesday night. Doors open 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Food and drinks available. 410-596-6313. d_pstrine@msn.com. info@nwfd10.org.
Retro Prom — 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at William R. Talley Rec Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick. Dance the night away with Maryland Ensemble Theatre for our annual fundraising throwback party! Prom attire reminiscent of any time period or decade is encouraged but not required. Because this event is a fundraiser, your event purchases, donations, and sponsorships support MET’s accessible performances and performing arts education programs. Music by Benefactor Events, dinner, desserts and beverages, photos, raffle tickets. 21 and older.
Maryland International Harvester Collectors Club Pancake Day — 7 a.m. to noon at Murphy Farm , 11502 Browningsville Road, Ijamsville. Family-friendly, indoor, all-youcan-eat breakfast includes pancakes, eggs, fresh sausage, bacon, biscuits, and gravy, with juice, milk, water, coffee, hot tea, and hot chocolate to drink. Carry-out available for purchase. Pay with either cash or credit. $12 adult, $5 kids ages 6 to 10 (under 6 free). 443-789-4119. Reba3Yaks@yahoo. com.
www.mdihcc39.org.
Tree Trekkers Opening Day — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Tree Trekkers, 9560 Old National Pike, Frederick. Frederick’s ultimate outdoor aerial adventure and zip lining park. For kids ages 7 and older, Tree Trekkers offers something for everyone with 16 different trails, 250 obstacles, with 8 difficulty levels. Enjoy a couple hours outside and climb, swing and zip line through the forest. Get tickets and find March Madness discounts online at www.treetrekkersmd.com. Cost varies.
Visit With the Animals — 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Star Gazing Farm, 16760 Whites Store Road, Boyds. Visit an animal sanctuary on the third Saturday of every month. The
guided tour gives families a chance to meet (behind their fence) sheep, goats, cows, pigs, horse, donkey, llamas and alpacas. See the Bunny Motel with its adorable rabbit and chinchilla residents. Gates open at 10:45 a.m. Reservations are required. $10 donation per person. shop.stargazingfarm.org/directions.
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.
Build a Leprechaun Trap — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Middletown Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Stop by and get crafty! Kids can create a trap of their own design to catch that pesky Leprechaun! Materials and boxes will be provided. This event welcomes all ages. fcpl.org.
Scrunchy Shamrock Craft — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Are you tired of searching for a rare four-leaf clover? Well, create your own using tissue paper and glue! 301-600-6329. MDeHart@frederickcountymd.gov. www.fcpl.org.
FESTIVALS
59th Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Jewelry Show — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Montgomery County Fairgrounds Bldg #6, 16 Chestnut St., Gaithersburg. Free minerals for kids, Mini mine for kids to search for a mineral, Hourly door prizes. Fluorescent mineral tent, demonstrations of natural history, jewelry making, hands-on physics and more. More than 40 exhibits by club members. 20 vendors of minerals, fossils, jewelry, etc. Free parking $7 ages 12 and over; ages 11 and under, Scouts in uniform, 4H youth with ID free. 240-506-2864. info@glmsmc.com. www.glmsmc.com.
Maple Syrup Festival — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cunningham Falls State Park, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont. Guests can watch staff demonstrate the traditional way of boiling sap into syrup, listen to live bluegrass music, and take a hayride through the Maple Grove. Try your hand in the great pancake race – trying to flip a pancake on the run ahead of other contestants – or enjoy a hot pancake breakfast with sausage and maple syrup. A sign language interpreter will be stationed at the Sugar Shack on both Sundays. Syrup-making demonstrations and hayrides take place every hour on the hour. $5 per person donation at the gate. 301271-7574. cunninghamgambrill.org/ maple-syrup-festival.
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. fcpl.org.
Irish Happy Hour 2025 — 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Capitol Theatre, 159 S. Main St ., Chambersburg, Pa. We’re bringing back this annual party in our Wood Center, celebrating the biggest holiday in March: St Patrick’s Day! With live music from Across the Pond, this will be the Celtic-jamboree you won’t want to miss! Featuring delicious Irish foods, Irish drinks, and much more! Purchase a table of 8 (must be reserved in advance) and invite your friends for a fun night! Tables only; no individual tickets available. 21 and older.
$150 per table of 8. 717-263-0202, option 1. vperry@thecapitoltheatre.org. www.thecapitoltheatre.org.
The Ladies of the ‘80s: A Tribute to Female Country Music Legends Starring Kip Calahan Young — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Capitol Theatre, 159 S. Main St ., Chambersburg, Pa. Kip Calahan Young of Forever Young Music Ministry is making a grand return to the Capitol Theatre main stage! This time she’ll be celebrating the greatest female country music performers of the 1980s. She’ll be performing live with multimedia telling the famous ladies’ stories, from Reba McEntire to Dolly Parton, The Judds to Tanya Tucker, and more!
Adults $34, Seniors $29, Military and 1st Responders $25, 18 and under $24. 717-263-0202, option 1. vperry@thecapitoltheatre.org. www.thecapitoltheatre.org.
Teelin Irish Dance: “Celtic Journey” — 7 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Step into a captivating world of rhythm and tradition with “Celtic Journey” by the acclaimed Teelin Irish Dance Co. Accompanied by an enthralling fusion of live music, the dancers captivate your senses, evoking the spirit of Ireland’s ancient past while embracing its vibrant present. Prepare to be mesmerized by the infectious energy, breathtaking footwork, and spellbinding storytelling that define Irish dance.
Ravita Jazz — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mount St. Mary’s University, 16300 Old Emmitsburg Road, Emmitsburg. Mount St. Mary’s University, Department of Visual and Performing Arts presents. The group brings together some of the Mid-Atlantic’s most in-demand jazz musicians under the direction of Mount bass and guitar faculty, Dr. Philip Ravita. Free and open to the public. 301-447-5308. venzin@msmary.edu. msmary.edu.
MSO in Concert: Bernstein & Mozart 40 — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Elizabeth Schulze, conductor; Curtis J. Stewart, violin. Join us for a concert that seamlessly bridges the realms of classical and contemporary compositions. Jessie Montgomery’s Strum, a modern masterpiece resonating with vibrant energy, sets the stage for an exploration of diverse musical landscapes. $40. 240-382-2623. nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org. www.marylandsymphony.org.
The Last Rewind - DC’s Phish Tribute Band — 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. The Last Rewind is an all-star conglomerate of DC-area musicians performing the music of Phish and the music Phish covers, featuring Brian Zupruk (bass), West Virginia’s finest Jason Skeen (drums), Brian Dodds (keys), and Dave Salvo (guitar). The band emphasizes faithful representation of Phish’s technical prowess and improvisational connectedness while weaving in original concepts and jamming styles.
Creating Wildlife Habitat in Your Outdoor Space — 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, 106 W Church St., Frederick. The second in the Lenten Speaker Series, with the theme of “Caring for God’s World,” Deb Portney will discuss Wildlife Habitat Advisors, a group that seeks to help citizens transform their outdoor spaces into wildlife habitat. Deb is a Maryland Master Naturalist and a Frederick County Master Gardener, as well as a Wildlife Habitat Advisor. 609-781-4792. cabrogers624@gmail.com.
ReWIND Wellness Series Program — 1 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.
Rock Art and Religion in Ancient Egypt — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join Lauren Lippiello, assistant professor of history and anthropology at FCC, for an illuminating presentation on the rhythms of the sun and its influence on religion in Predynastic Egypt, as revealed by rock art from Aswan, Egypt. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.
Self Defense for Women & Teen Girls — 5 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. at The Common Market, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. These classes will cover situational awareness, verbal de-escalation and physical de-escalation. In the physical de-escalation portions, the class will cover primarily “open hand” techniques, not the use of weapons or other tools of self-defense. Each 45-minute lesson will include review of the previous week, some core strengthening, some aerobic conditioning, proper use of hands, and one-on-one practice of each technique with a partner, with the goal of developing a “muscle memory” response to various aggressor holds such as front bear hug, double wrist grasp,
PERMACULTURE DESIGN COURSE
lapel grab. Safety of all participants will be emphasized. $20-$40. 301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. www.commonmarket.coop/classes-events/ self-defense-for-women-teen-girls.
ETCETERA
Urbana High School Drama Boosters
Designer Bag BINGO! — 12:30 a.m. at Elks Lodge, 289 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. Second annual afternoon of fun to benefit the UHS Drama Boosters, a 501(c)3 organization! This event is for ages 12+, anyone attending must have a ticket to enter and participate in regular bingo games. 16 regular bingos included, two special bingos (extra feee). Designer bags include Coach, Kate Spade, LuluLemon, Guess, Michael Kors, Vera Bradley and more. Preview of the UHS spring musical “Little Shop of Horrors” at intermission. Concessions, pull tabs, raffle baskets tickets available, cash only. $35. UHSdramafundraising@gmail.com.
Shoff Promotions Presents Comic Con — 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Frederick Clarion Inn Event Center, 5400 Holiday Drive, Frederick. Super selection of comic books from Gold, Silver, Bronze to Modern Age. Nonsports cards including Pokemon packs & singles, magic and Yu-Gi-Oh etc., super heroes and Funko Toys, Plushies, gaming supplies, sci-fi toys, Anime, video games, original art and hobby supplies, artists’ alley. Cosplay always welcome. New — separate Pokemon Plaza with 20+ dealers.
50th Annual Frederick Home & Garden Expo — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Presented by the Frederick County Building Industry Association. With over 150 exhibitors across the construction, home services, outdoor living, and green home solutions industries, the expo is your chance to explore, shop and compare vibrant local businesses in person like never before! Family activities include learn to plant a seed, Pirate Magic and T-ball with Keyote. New for 2025 — DIY info sessions on spring cleaning, organizing, gardening and more, and skilled trades job fair. Full schedule online. 301-663-3599. events@frederickbuilders.org. www.frederickexpo.org.
Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Jewelry Show — 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut St., Gaithersburg. Two floors of vendors, demonstrators and exhibits. Gold panning, Fluorescent minerals, and plenty of activities for the kids. $7 ages 12 and up. Free for children 11 and under. glmsmc.com.
Shannon Bielski and Moonlight Drive — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cactus Flats, 10026 Hansonville Road, Frederick. Bluegrass music. Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo — 5 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Dept., 101 High St., New Windsor. Every Tuesday night. Doors open 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m.
Food and drinks available. 410-596-6313. d_pstrine@msn.com. info@nwfd10.org.
FAMILY
Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Company
March Breakfast — 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Company
Reception Hall, 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy . The buffet will feature scrambled eggs, smoked sausage, bacon, french toast, pancakes, biscuits, home fries, sausage and chipped beef gravies, baked apples, make your own waffle bar, coffee, orange juice, milk, tea and hot chocolate. Cost: $15 adults, $9 children ages 6 to 12 and children 5 and under are free with a paying adult. Cash or credit accepted. 301-829-0100. www.mavfc.org.
Frederick Regional Youth Orchestra Winter Concert — 6:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. If your family enjoys classical music and scores from movies and Broadway musicals, then grab tickets and head downtown Frederick to support local students in Frederick and the tri-state region at their Winter Concert. $15 adults, !8 and under free but ticket is required. weinbergcenter.org.
FESTIVALS
Maple Syrup Festival — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cunningham Falls State Park, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont. Guests can watch staff demonstrate the traditional way of boiling sap into syrup, listen to live bluegrass music, and take a hayride through the Maple Grove. Try your hand in the great pancake race – trying to flip a pancake on the run ahead of other contestants – or enjoy a hot pancake breakfast with sausage and maple syrup. A sign language interpreter will be stationed at the Sugar Shack on both Sundays. Syrup-making demonstrations and hayrides take place every hour on the hour. $5 per person donation at the gate. 301271-7574. cunninghamgambrill.org/ maple-syrup-festival.
Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Jewelry Show — 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Montgomery County Fairgrounds Bldg #6, 16 Chestnut St., Gaithersburg. Free minerals for kids, Mini mine for kids to search for a mineral, Hourly door prizes. Fluorescent mineral tent, demonstrations of natural history, jewelry making, hands-on physics and more. More than 40 exhibits by club members. 20 vendors of minerals, fossils, jewelry, etc. Free parking $7 ages 12 and over; ages 11 and under, Scouts in uniform, 4H youth with ID free. 240-506-2864. info@glmsmc.com. www.glmsmc.com.
MUSIC
MSO in Concert: Bernstein & Mozart 40 — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Elizabeth Schulze, conductor; Curtis J. Stewart, violin. Join us for a concert that seamlessly bridges the realms of classical and contemporary compositions. Jessie Montgomery’s Strum, a modern masterpiece resonating with vibrant energy, sets the stage for an exploration of
| Thursday, March 13, 2025 |
diverse musical landscapes. $40. 240-382-2623. nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org. www.marylandsymphony.org.
Monday March 17 CLASSES
Teen Pot of Gold Bath Bombs! — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Create a pot of gold bath bomb for a little luck of the Irish! Supplies limited. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/teenprogram-hold-155970.
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. www.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.
Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo — 5 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Dept., 101 High St., New Windsor . Every Tuesday night. Doors open 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Food and drinks available. 410-596-6313. d_pstrine@msn.com. info@nwfd10.org.
St. Patrick’s Day w/ That Raucous Crew — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Suite K, Frederick. Join us at Rockwell Brewery Riverside for a proper pint and a proper IRISH Band! Plenty of parking and beer! Free admission. 240-575-9755. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.
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.
Family Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Enjoy music, stories, and more! Designed for ages up to 5 with a caregiver. 301-600-6329. CDillman@frederickcountymd.gov. www.fcpl.org.
Little Adventurers — 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Children learn and explore through hands-on activities using science, technology, engineering, art and math concepts at the library. Caregivers are encouraged to connect with children and participate in the activities! 301-600-6329. CDillman@frederickcountymd.gov. www.fcpl.org.
Tuesday March 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. www.thecenterfrederick.com. ETCETERA
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.
Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo — 5 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Dept., 101 High St., New Windsor . Every Tuesday night. Doors open 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Food and drinks available. 410-596-6313. d_pstrine@msn.com. info@nwfd10.org.
For Teens: Let’s Plant Seeds — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Learn the process for starting seeds indoors, how to transplant seedlings, and the journey a seed will take until it’s ready to plant in the garden. We will plant flowers, vegetables and herbs. www.fcpl.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.
Elementary Explorers: Cave Painting — 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Learn about the cave paintings in Lascaux, France,
and then make a cave painting of your own! This program is for children in kindergarten through 5th grades (ages 5-10). 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
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.
Gentle Yoga for All! — 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at The Common Market CO-OP, 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. www.commonmarket.coop/classes-events. Rage is Tinder, Hope is Fuel: Planting Story Seeds for Just Climate Futures — 10 a.m. to noon at Fox Haven Farm & Retreat Center, 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson. As we experience the multi-system collapse called climate change, we are left with all the rage and grief of our broken relationships with the rest of nature. How do we learn to see the hopeful futures already blooming in the human and more-than-human communities around us? Explore the land of Fox Haven Farm to inspire our speculative “world-building” and to help each of us choose a climate solution rooted in social or environmental justice.
Rhythm Works Dance Class: A Program for Adults with Developmental Disabilities — 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Welcome back Dee Buchanan Dance Studio to learn some more dance moves. 18 and older.
301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.
History Bites - The Great Atlantic Speed Race of the Early 20th Century Ocean Liners — 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Join us for a quick bite of history. Discussion follows. Pre-registration required.
American 250 Speakers Series: “Let It Begin Here!” The Battle of Lexington and Concord — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Frederick Masonic Lodge, 6816 Blentlinger Road, Frederick. The SAR America 250 Speaker Series kicks off its third season with a return engagement by military historian Glenn F. Williams, who will speak on “Let It Begin Here!” on the Battle of Lexington and Concord, which took place almost 250 years
ago, on April 19, 1775. Ages 21 and older. 301-801-1129. pastorengel@gmail.com. www.mdssar.org/lawrenceeverhart.html.
ETCETERA
Curious Iguana Presents: The Dear Reader (Taylor Swift inspired) Book Fair! — 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Attaboy Barrel House, 24 S. Wisner St., Suite 110, Frederick. It’s time to get out your Swiftie outfit, pick your favorite books, and just read! Darling, darling, please join Attaboy Beer and Curious Iguana for our very first Dear Reader (Taylor Swift Inspired) Book Fair for adults! The greatest luxury is books, so come wander through our book stack where you and your friends will find books who care. If you plan to have another drink, Attaboy Barrel House will be open until 9 p.m. Families may bring their children, and furry friends are welcome outside. 240-575-4496. curiousiguanaevents@gmail.com.
Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo — 5 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Dept., 101 High St., New Windsor . Every Tuesday night. Doors open 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Food and drinks available. 410-596-6313. d_pstrine@msn.com. info@nwfd10.org.
Researching the History of a House — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Unless you are the first person to live in your house, you’ve probably at some point wondered who else cooked in your kitchen, when was
strange door that leads to nowhere originally used for. Julie Saylor from the Maryland State Library Resource Center will talk about where to find government records related to your home, how to research historical archives for information, and what to look for in your house itself for clues. 18 and older. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
Line Dancing Night at Bentztown — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Bentztown, 6 S. Bentz St., Frederick. Kick up your boots at Bentztown’s all-new line dancing night! Every Wednesday, Bentztown is turning up the country vibes and bringing the best of Music City to you. Led by Sharon Grimet of Sharon’s School of Dance, this fun and easygoing class is perfect for dancers of all skill levels. Happy hour food specials. $10, includes your first beer, soda or rail cocktail. 301-301-8430. info@bentztown.com.
FAMILY
Toddler Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Designed with beginning mobility in mind, join us for movement, songs, stories and more that will guide caregivers toward early learning and literacy for toddlers. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
Touch a Guitar! — 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Explore different guitars in an up close experience! Ages 5-12.
Mind Care & Games for Seniors, People Experiencing Memory Loss and their Caregivers — 11 a.m. to noon at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Games are among the many activities that can keep the human mind entertained and engaged. But more importantly, games can help stimulate our brains. Join in this station-based, interactive program. The morning will also feature a guest speaker from Healthy Home Living Solutions. 18 and older. www.fcpl.org.
Friends In Frederick Parkinson’s Disease Support Group — noon to 2 p.m. at Mount Pleasant Ruritan Club, 8101 Crum Road, Walkersville. Treatments for Advanced Parkinson’s Disease with Nancy Howerton from Abbie Pharmaceuticals. The meeting begins at noon with lunch. 240-815-0080. john.nicodemus@verizon.net. fifpdsg.org.
Community Cancer Support Group — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Joseph on Carrollton Manor Catholic Church, . Community cancer support group for people who have cancer, are a caregiver, or in anyway affected by cancer. Meetings are the first and third Wednesday each month. 301-471-5300. sefioravanti@gmail.com.
Thursday March 20
CLASSES
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. www.thecenterfrederick.com.
Tween Pot of Gold Bath Bombs — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Tweens come and create a pot of shimmering gold bath bomb for a little luck of the Irish! Supplies limited, for ages 9-13. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
Teen Safety: Stop the Bleed Training (ages 11-18) — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. A bleeding injury can happen anywhere. Life-threatening bleeding can happen in people injured in serious accidents or disasters. The number 1 cause of preventable death after injury is bleeding. That’s why we want to train you how to stop the bleed. In this class, teens will gain the ability to recognize life-threatening bleeding and act quickly and effectively to control bleeding. 301-600-7000. ljean@frederickcountymd. gov.
