72 HOURS Sept. 14, 2023

THE GREAT FREDERICK FAIR OPENS THIS WEEK

You’ve likely heard this from someone already, but ICYMI, the Great Frederick Fair starts this week. It will be open every day at the Frederick Fairgrounds beginning Sept. 15 through Sept. 23 — that’s a full week and two weekends of all the amusement park rides, all the fair food you could ever crave, a new lineup of artists taking the grandstand stage, motorsports, farm animals, rows and rows of agriculture displays, contests and fair vibes all around. Should you need even more fair vibes in your life, the Bluemont Fair in Loudoun County is this weekend for one weekend only, less than an hour drive from Frederick.

WATCH THE STORY OF HFS IN THIS NEW DOCUMENTARY

For all those who loved HFS, we’ve got a film for you. Learn the origins of the innovative radio station in the documentary “Feast Your Ears: The Story of WHFS 102.3 FM,” which you can see on the big screen at the Weinberg Center on Sept. 16. The film details the early years of the D.C. station, with interviews from DJs, as well as musicians who credit HFS for helping them get their start.

IT’S HARVEST SEASON

If you keep a garden, you know it — ’tis the season for all kinds of vegetable bounty in this area … which means our local farmers markets are bursting at the seams. More markets have cropped up in recent years, and nowadays you can visit one on any day of the week and all throughout the county. Check our Farmers Market Directory for current listings, and stop by soon, as several will remain open for only a few more weeks before autumn creeps in.

MEET THE CURRENT ARTIST IN RESIDENCE AT CUNNINGHAM FALLS

Cindy Stockton Moore is the new Catoctin Forest Alliance artist in residence and will be busy sketching and painting her way through the next several days at Cunningham Falls State Park. Catch her when she presents her Drawing with Nature workshop at Thurmont Regional Library on Sept 16 and her Invasive Ink program on Sept. 23 at the state park.

GET WILD AT J BAR W RANCH

J Bar W Ranch will host its biggest event of the year this weekend, the final Battle of the Beast of the season. This two-hour, high-energy event for all ages features professional bull riding on Sept. 16, rain or shine, and kids can catch the Little Wranglers Rodeo held before the show.

PICK YOUR POISON AT FREDERICK SOCIAL

Lisa Perrin, an award-winning illustrator and a full-time professor at MICA in Baltimore, will celebrate the launch of her first book, “The League of Lady Poisoners: Illustrated True Stories of Dangerous Women,” at 7 p.m. Sept. 21 at Frederick Social. The book weaves together the stories of more than 25 accused women poisoners, exploring the circumstances and skill sets that led them to lives of crime. Come out, “pick your poison” from the eatery’s drink menu, and listen to Perrin discuss her work.

CATHARTIC ART

Living Through Loss brings together parents who have lost children to overdoses and substance disorders, and the nonprofit will host its first art exhibition, “Abiding Love,” this weekend. The show features photographs by Fran Byrne that show parents holding photos of their children.

Meet Bob & Freddie. When it comes to local businesses, businesspeople and organizations in Frederick, they know best. Here is a personal interview with a 2022 Best of the Best winner or finalist about why they love what they do, helping those they serve and working in Frederick.

Law Office of Lena A. Clark

2022 FINALIST FOR BEST LAW FIRM – ESTATE

129 W. Patrick St, #11, Frederick 301-696-0567 • lenaclarklegal.com

“I don’t need an attorney to draft my Will, I’ll just prepare one on the internet.”

We have seen far too many costly situations when someone died with an online-created Will or Trust. We were recently involved in a Probate matter where a gentleman created a Will online leaving everything to a joint Revocable Living Trust with his spouse. He even wrote a letter explaining he wanted to give everything to her. It turns out the Trust was never properly created, and of course the letter had no legal effect. It was heart-wrenching to tell the grieving spouse that she has to vacate the house so it could be sold and his children could get their shares. Another gentleman created an online Trust but placed nothing into it. The entire Estate had to go through the lengthy, expensive and unnecessary Probate process with the Maryland court. A few years ago, our Probate client’s sister “drafted” a Trust leaving everything to her siblings with hopes of avoiding Probate. When she passed, her brother had dementia and lived in a nursing home paid for by Medicaid. The inheritance disqualified him from eligibility, and he now pays over $10,000 a month for care. A properly drafted Trust would have

accounted for this, and kept the brother eligible for benefits.

Oftentimes, however, the online documents are completely unusable and we must advise the Probate client to proceed as if no valid Will was ever created.

Not all attorneys are created equal. It is a very common misconception that Estate Planning is easy and could be done by any attorney. This is not true. If you have a serious heart problem, you will hire the best heart surgeon available – you would never consider a dermatologist. Yet, we often see Estate Plans prepared by “door attorneys” who accept almost any case that walks in their door. You worked hard and sacrificed a lot to get where you are today. Don’t entrust your future estate, however modest it may be, to a lawyer who handles DUIs, divorces, and Wills in the same week. Laws are complex and evolve often. I am licensed in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, and spent the first decade of my legal career almost exclusively handling Probate and Estate Tax returns for DC and Montgomery County clients. However, I no longer accept any cases from DC in an effort to focus on providing the best possible legal counsel for our Maryland and Virginia clients.

If you are a Maryland or Virginia resident and would like help with protecting your assets and loved ones in the event of death or disability, please call us at 301-6960567 or self-schedule at lenaclarklegal.com.

A definitive ranking of every

By JACK WALKER Special to The News-Post

Like many cities across the U.S., Frederick is experiencing a boba bubble. It began when the county’s first bubble tea venue, Yo Bubble, popped up in 2011. Then another store opened in 2021. Then another in 2022. And another in 2023. Today, nine stores in Frederick specialize in bubble tea, a drink originating in Taiwan that combines freshly brewed tea with chewy tapioca pearls called boba. With such a wide slate of offerings, it can be hard to know where to begin. That’s why I bought a drink from every store and ranked them, from the places I’d shy away from to the ones where you can expect to see me again.

bottom of the cup. The boba itself was rather firm, too. I think this might be my farewell to H Mart bubble tea.

7.

Ibiza Cafe,

8 W. Fourth St.

What I got: Whipped assam with mango and boba

What I thought: I want to give Ibiza Cafe credit for innovation. The drink I ordered featured a type of black tea I had never tried before, assam, as well as whipped cream and mango puree. Cool stuff! The tea itself was fairly watered down, and the whipped cream and mango melted into the drink, making it hard to pull out specific flavors. That said, the drink I chose doesn’t normally come with boba, and that’s a decision I’d echo for future buyers. While I wasn’t enthused by my drink, this venue is so adorable inside, and I might have to stop by again and see if I can’t find something I’d like more on the menu.

Bakery & Cafe, inside H Mart, 1063 W.

What I got: Honeydew milk tea

What I thought: Ah, Cafe Juno. For me, this venue is like an ex from when you are young: You thought they were the best in the world, but meeting new people made you realize how flawed they really were. While this store was my introduction to the wonders of bubble tea, I’ve been around the block a few times and recognize that the boba quality at Cafe Juno isn’t great. I picked the honeydew flavor — a risky choice, but my main issue wasn’t the tea. Instead, my drink wasn’t mixed properly, and I could taste chunks of dry honeydew powder mixed in with the boba at the

8. Market Street Boba & Beans, 35 N. Market St. What I got: Lavender black milk tea

What I thought: As a lifelong speed drinker, one thing I love about boba is you have to chew while you sip, making it harder to rush through each beverage. But ask any bubble tea connoisseur and they’ll tell you the cardinal sin of boba: an overly tough texture. The tapioca pearls at Market Street Boba & Beans were dense and somewhat hard to chew. While the lavender milk tea was tasty, I couldn’t shake my disappointment over the boba itself from a store with boba in the name.

6. Chatime Frederick, 5219 Buckeystown Pike

What I got: Coconut milk tea

What I thought: If you’re trying to decide where to buy your boba, Chatime is a solid choice. I didn’t love my coconut milk tea, which had an almost burnt flavor to me, but my drink met some of my basic principles of boba etiquette: well-blended tea, chewy boba and a fun little cup to make drinking it more enjoyable. I definitely don’t regret making a stop here on my boba tour.

5. Yaza’s

Tea House, 5 Willowdale Drive

What I got: Oolong milk tea

What I thought: This was probably the dark horse of my boba journey. I didn’t expect to enjoy my drink from Yaza’s Tea House as much as I did. Although the store might have had an advantage because I ordered my favorite drink, oolong milk tea, I was impressed by

9. Juno

Patrick St.

Jack Walker

Coconut milk tea at Chatime Frederick.

Jack Walker

Whipped assam with mango and boba at Ibiza Cafe.

Jack Walker

Lavender black milk tea at Market Street Boba & Beans.

Jack Walker

Honeydew milk tea at Juno Bakery & Cafe, inside H Mart in Frederick.

bubble tea store in Frederick

ambitious flavor here and would not buy it again, but it was good quality. Smooth milk tea, chewy boba; Kung Fu Tea is nothing if not dependable and will always have a place in my heart.

the assistance of tapioca pearls laden in brown sugar. A fun drink, and a fun venue to match it.

2. Old Dominion Ramen & Bubble, 5732 Buckeystown Pike

What I got: Taro milk tea

What I thought: This taro milk tea gave what it needed to give. Its subtly sweet, creamy flavor paired perfectly with the boba and made for a topnotch bubble tea experience. The boba was perfect in texture but perhaps could have been a tad more flavorful. Still, this drink was super refreshing and made for a perfect midday snack — and it came in an adorable cup with a smile on the lid!

the flavor of the tea and the sweetness of the boba. My one critique is the boba was a little stiffer than I’d like, but with outstanding flavors and great service, I’d happily return to Yaza’s any day of the week.

3. Tea-Do Frederick, 5100 Buckeystown Pike What I got:

Thai milk tea

What I thought: With drawings on the wall and bold, creative colors, this bubble tea shop gave me major art school vibes. My tea was refreshing and smooth, and the boba hit all my markers for sweet, chewy goodness. The flavor, on the whole, seemed a little diluted, but that was more than forgivable with

1. 8Tea8, 211 Shorebird St.

What I got: Brown sugar milk tea

Buckeystown Pike

What I got: Strawberry milk tea

What I thought: Kung Fu Tea is a classic. If you’ve tried bubble tea before, you’ve probably had Kung Fu Tea. You can find it at practically any mall on the East Coast, and it always hits the spot. I ordered another

What I thought: Silky. Smooth. Fresh. Chewy boba. Strong flavors. My unexpected favorite, 8Tea8 gave me everything I needed and more from a cup of bubble tea. I’m not normally one who goes for super sugary drinks, but the quality of this beverage made it a frontrunner in my mind from the moment I took my first sip. If you’re new to the boba game, I recommend stopping by. The store has many different options and can offer the perfect snack when you’re running your weekend errands.

Jack Walker is an alum of Brown University and Frederick Community College who grew up in Thurmont.

4. Kung Fu Tea, inside Francis Scott Key Mall, 5500

Jack Walker

The oolong milk tea at Yaza’s Tea House.

Jack Walker

Brown sugar milk tea at 8Tea8.

Jack Walker

Taro milk tea at Old Dominion Ramen & Bubble.

Jack Walker

Thai milk tea at Tea-Do Frederick.

Jack Walker

Strawberry milk tea at Kung Fu Tea.

Freedom’s Jubilee celebrates abolition and emancipation movement in Maryland

BY ERIK ANDERSON Special to The News-Post

In the years leading up to the U.S. Civil War, Maryland had an especially peculiar relationship with the peculiar institution of slavery. It depended on the exploited labor of the enslaved to produce the vast tobacco crops of the Chesapeake Bay region, but it was also home to a forceful abolitionist movement and the largest population of free African Americans when the Civil War started.

“Maryland’s history is a real mess,” said Claude Bauer, a board member of the Central Maryland Heritage League. “There was a representative here from Frederick, a U.S. Congressman, John A.J. Creswell who was a strong abolitionist. At the same time, the governor [of Maryland] had his own plantation. He didn’t want to secede and join the Confederacy, but he had a plantation with slaves.”

To help explain this complicated history, the CMHL will host a living history event called Freedom’s Jubilee celebrating the abolitionist movement in Maryland and the anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s preliminary release of the Emancipation Proclamation in September 1862.

The free, family-friendly event will be held on the grounds of Dahlgren Chapel in Middletown and will cover the history of the abolition movement from the 1850s into the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. The history will be presented by four living history interpreters representing John Brown, Frederick Douglass, Thaddeus Stevens and an African-American Union soldier.

“Each of these topics has tons of information. People do their PhDs on this stuff,” Bauer said. “We‘re going to rely on the interpreters to give the audience what it was like from a personal perspective, from one individual who was prominent in [each] era.”

Nathan Richardson, who is portraying Frederick Douglass at the event, said he wants visitors to experience what it was like for a 19th-century audience to hear the famous civil rights activist speak in person. For more than nine years, he has researched and studied thousands of Douglass’ writings, endeavoring to learn every public detail of his life so he can speak as the man himself, rather than delivering memorized speeches.

“I’m hoping [my audiences]

understand the history of the period — not just Frederick Douglass but everything that was going on around Douglass,” Richardson said. “I know everything the character was doing at a particular time. … so that when a person in the audience, be it an adult or child, asks a question, I have researched that and I have the memory to recall that.”

Bauer said one of the major goals of the programming is to challenge prominent misconceptions of the abolitionist movement. To that end,

he will be portraying a “generic” 19th-century Middletown mechanic who served as a conductor on the Underground Railroad when he introduces the main speakers.

“The whole country was full of abolitionists of all income levels and trades. I deliberately chose that to show there were people other than the well-todo New Englanders sitting in Boston in their parlors talking about abolition,” he said. That’s what a lot of people think of when you say ‘abolitionists.’”

Despite careful research, Bauer was unable to locate any specific Underground Railroad activity in Middletown, but he said the Dahlgren Chapel had a few tangential connections to the abolitionist movement, despite not having been built until 1881.

The chapel was founded by Madeleine Dahlgren, the daughter of Samuel Finley Vinton, a U.S. Representative from Ohio who supported the Wilmot Proviso, which would have banned slavery in the U.S. territories acquired from Mexico. In 1945, he defended a group of abolitionists who were accused of abducting slaves from Virginia.

Dahlgren supported the Society of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart (aka Josephites), a Catholic order of priests and brothers in Baltimore. Their ministry was exclusively dedicated to African Americans, and they ordained the first African-American Catholic priest in the U.S.

Bauer’s research also found ample evidence of abolitionist activity throughout Western Maryland. He said, for instance, “In 1850, there was a free produce movement in Western Maryland that encouraged people to buy goods that were produced by free labor only, to protest slavery.”

In addition to highlighting abolitionist history, Bauer said the Freedom’s Jubilee event will serve his long-running goal of deemphasizing the military aspects of the Civil War in favor of revealing more about civilian life during the period.

“The abolitionist movement was a very big homefront movement, and it

Nathan Richardson portraying Frederick Douglass. Courtesy photo

Courtesy photo

Doug Dobbs portraying John Brown.

Freedom’s Jubilee

When: Noon to 4 p.m. Sept. 16

Where: Dahlgren Chapel, Route 40A and Washington Monument Road, Middletown Info: cmhl.org/dahlgren-chapel

contributed significantly to the whole arc of history during that time,” he said. “There are a lot of people in the hobby, these civilian re-enactors, who really look forward to doing this sort of thing, because all of the other events they go to, they’re just kind of also there with the battles.”

In addition to three of the four main presenters representing historical civilians, Roy Wulf, a high school sophomore, will be playing multiple period-accurate instruments throughout the day’s events. Bauer hopes the crowd will sing along to his accompaniment of the period music, which would have been heard more frequently in civilian than military life.

Peter Vaselopulos will also be onsite, portraying Matthew Brady, the famous Civil War photographer. He will be equipped with a modern camera that produces antique-looking images.

Erik Anderson is a freelance writer in Frederick who cares about few things more than the history of his community. Email him at erikanderson07@gmail. com.

Courtesy photo

Dahlgren Chapel in Middletown.

In the past few weeks, some of you might have watched the documentary “AYENDA,” an installment of the MSNBC Films series The Turning Point. For those who didn’t catch it, it covers the troubled removal of members of the Afghan Girls Soccer Team and some of their relatives after our military’s ill-fated departure from Afghanistan. (Our entry was even more ill-fated, but that’s not for this column.) Portugal came through as a haven for the team, and with the determination of their Canadian-Afghani coach and U.S. and other powers that be, removal happened after many false starts.

One of the amazing strengths of these older girls/ young women that came through for me was their empathy, evident in an anonymous observation by one of them as their bus finally left Afghanistan:

“The mountains and deserts of my country didn’t know what kind of people were ruling them now. I was sorry my homeland wasn’t aware of the cruel rulers now walking on it.”

Everyday poetry

I was very moved by these words. They told me how much these girls loved this land they were leaving, how much they always would be part of it. They told me how subjugated the land itself had become — not just many of its people. They told me a necessary respect among people and things of this Earth is shackled in certain places. For no good reason. For awhile now, I’ve been working on a series of poems related to things that support us. Physical things like the ground but also ideas and people who keep our heads above water, and so “AYENDA” spoke to me on many levels.

Sheryl Massaro is a Frederick poet and oil painter. She holds an MFA in creative writing from The American University. Recently, she has completed an interpretive translation of Rainer Maria Rilke’s Duino Elegies, thanks to support from the Frederick Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

TOAD THE WET SPROCKET

THURSDAY, SEPT 21 • 7:30 PM

DIRECT FROM SWEDEN: THE MUSIC OF ABBA

SATURDAY, SEPT 23 • 8:00 PM

VERSA-STYLE DANCE COMPANY

SATURDAY, OCT 7 • 8:00 PM

DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE: KING FOR A DAY!

THURSDAY, OCT 26 • 2:30 PM & 5:30 PM

COMING THIS FALL

SPECIAL FILM EVENT FEAST YOUR EARS: THE STORY OF WHFS 102.3FM

SATURDAY, SEPT 16 • 8:00 PM

WONDER BOOK CLASSIC FILM SERIES WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (1971)

FRIDAY, SEPT 29 • 7:30 PM

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL ®

THURSDAY, NOV 9 & FRIDAY, NOV 10 • 8:00 PM

YESTERDAY AND TODAY: THE INTERACTIVE BEATLES EXPERIENCE

WEDNESDAY, NOV 15 • 7:30 PM

...AND MANY MORE!

VISIT WEINBERGCENTER.ORG FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF EVENTS.

DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE

SHERYL MASSARO

J Bar W Ranch end season with Battle of the Beast

Just outside of Frederick, the J Bar W Ranch is a hidden gem among rodeo enthusiasts — complete with cowgirl barrel racing, cowboy poker, the wild cow milking contest and bullring.

This week marks their biggest event of the year, the Battle of the Beast. This two-hour, high-

Come

Moving Beyond High School HBCU College Fair

Moving Us Forward will host the Moving Beyond High School HBCU College Fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 16 at the Clarion Conference Center in Frederick. The event, in its second year, highlights the educational caliber of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

The Frederick County Public School System partner with Moving Us Forward for this event, which is open to all students and their parents in the DMV area.

Several HBCUs representatives from across the country will be onsite to offer admissions and scholarships to qualified students, Keynote speakers include Stella’s Girls founder and CEO Kaprece James and Purpose One Reality broker and owner Nia Condrey.

energy event for all ages features professional bull riding beginning at 7 p.m. Sept. 16, consisting of top bull riders competing on some of the toughest bulls in rodeo.

The shows are held rain or shine. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for ages 6 to 12 and free for children under 6. Tickets are available at

the gate, which opens at 5 p.m. Little Wranglers Rodeo is held from 5:30 to 6 p.m., which is free with admission.

Video cameras, alcohol, coolers and pets are not permitted. J Bar W Ranch is at 10530 Green Valley Road in Union Bridge.

Financial and college planning workshops will be provided by Sallie Mae, as well as Suited 4 Success College Planning Services available for students and parents.

A community sponsorship corner allows community partners to showcase their services.

The Urbana Step Team will give a step-show presentation

Tickets are $10 per person and available through Eventbrite.

Photo by Dalton Kramer

Farmers Market Directory

Boonsboro Farmers Market

Shafer Park Annex, 241 Potomac St., next to the police station, Boonsboro, 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays, through October. Locally sourced produce, meats, dairy, herbs, honey, baked goods, wines, skin care; live music, food trucks. 301-471-9816 or Facebook.

Brunswick Main Street Farmers Market — Martins’ Creek Municipal parking lot, Potomac Street at First Avenue, Brunswick. Second and last Friday of the month, 4 to 7 p.m., through Sept. 29. facebook.com/ bmsfarmersmarket.

Carroll County Farmers Market — Carroll County Agriculture Center, 700 Agriculture Drive, Westminster. Spring market hours

8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Summer markets

8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 410-848-7748 or carrollcountyfarmersmarket.com.

Community Farmer’s Market

— 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.

Downtown Thursday Market —

3:30 to 6:30 p.m. through Sept. 28, Old Carmack Jay’s parking lot, 331 N. Market St., Frederick.

Emmitsburg Farmers Market — 302 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. 2 to 8 p.m. Fridays, through Oct. 6.

For more information about summer programs, contact us at:

Contact Kadeem Brim at 301-4012094 or 301-600-6303.

Field Fresh Farmers Market — Frederick Fairgrounds, Lot A, East Patrick and Franklin streets, Frederick. Open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m Saturdays, through Nov. 18. 25+ vendors, SNAP and Maryland Money accepted. fieldfreshfarmersmarket.com.

Frederick City Market — Parking lot of the old Carmack-Jay’s building, 331 N. Market St., Frederick.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays, through Nov. 19. Food and artisan market. frederickcitymarket.com.

Frederick Farmers Market — 1215 W. Patrick St., Golden Mile/ Gavigan’s Furniture, 1215 W. Patrick St., Frederick. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, through Nov. 18. Rain or shine. wffmltd@gmail.com. A producer only market, produced or grown within 30 minutes of the market. frederickfarmersmarket.com.

FSK Mall Farmers Market — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays through Nov. 18 in the parking lot behind Macy’s, 5500 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. shopfskmall.com.

Jefferson Farmers Market — Jefferson Ruritan, 4603 Lander Road, Jefferson, 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays, rain or shine. Food trucks, live music. 301-473-8330 or the Facebook page.

Middletown Farmers Market — Parking lot of Christ Reformed UCC, 12 S. Church St., Middletown. Thursdays 4 to 7 p.m. through mid-October. middletownmdfarmersmarket.com or 301-524-1035.

Mount Airy Main Street Farmers’ Market — 3 N. Main St., behind the Historic Mount Airy Train Station, 3 N. Main St., Mount Airy. 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays, through September. mountairymainstreetfarmersmarket. org.

Myersville Farmers Outdoor Market — Municipal parking lot next to Myersville Town Hall/Volunteer Fire Company at 301 Main St., Myersville. 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays through Oct. 28. Around 30 vendors, food trucks. 301-524-1035 or myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

Smithsburg Town Farmers Market — New location: Railroad Lane, next to Trackside Kitchen, Smithsburg; 4-7 p.m. every other Monday: Sept. 18, Oct. 2, Oct. 16 and last one Oct. 30. @ smithsburgmdtownfarmersmarket on Facebook or 301-302-3378.

Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market — Community Park, 21 Frederick Road, Thurmont, 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays, through Oct. 7. A different food truck every Saturday. www.thurmontmainstreet. com or Vickie Grinder at vgrinder@ thurmontstaff.com.

Urbana Library Farmers Market — Urbana Regional Library side parking lot, 9020 Amelung St., Urbana. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays, through Oct. 29.

YMCA of Frederick County Farmers Market — 1000 N. Market St., Frederick. 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, through Oct. 31. ederickymca.org.

Courtesy photo

Stop by a farmers market before they disappear for the season.

Visiting the birthplace of the teddy bear

BY AMANDA FINNEGAN The Washington Post

If you own a stuffed animal with a yellow Steiff tag pinned in its ear, you have a descendant of one of the first teddy bears.

While the stuffed bears were eventually named for President Theodore Roosevelt, part of their origin story can be traced to Germany with a woman named Margarete Steiff. She founded her company in Giengen, Germany, in 1880.

Steiff, who contracted polio when she was 18 months old, was paralyzed in her legs and had limited use of her right arm. But she became a master seamstress and ran a felt clothing business. Her first animal creation was a small, felt elephant, which was intended to be a pin cushion.

At the Steiff factory, teddy bears are assembled in parts — legs, arms, body and heads — and then are sewn inside-out and turned the right way through a specially designed tool.

The Steiff catalogue expanded to include other animals such as monkeys, giraffes and rabbits. Then in 1902, Margarete’s nephew, Richard Steiff, designed a stuffed bear with arms and legs you could move, known as “Bear 55PB” — plush, movable and 55 centimeters tall. His original sketches date back to 1894.

It was an instant success in the United States.

The stuffed toy later got its “Teddy” name, thanks to cartoon depicting Roosevelt refusing to shoot a bear in The Washington Post in 1902. Around

the same time, Brooklyn candy shop owner and inventor Morris Michtom also began making and selling teddy bears in Roosevelt’s honor.

Steiff says the cartoon played a major role in the toy’s success. Five years after Steiff made its first bear, the company produced nearly 980,000 bears and 1.7 million toys. Still, the company isn’t sure what happened to Bear 55PB.

“Someone may have it, and not even know it,” said Simone Pürckhauer, director of the Steiff Museum and public relations. That may be because the animals’ trademark buttons in their ears didn’t appear until 1904.

Collecting and gifting Steiffs have

become a tradition for people all over the world, and fans still make the pilgrimage to the factory, often bringing their own well-loved bears for repair or “to show them where they were born,” Pürckhauer said. Visitors are able to watch how the bears are made by hand and tour some of the company’s oldest and most storied stuffed animals.

One of Pürckhauer’s favorite pieces in the museum collection is a rabbit from a collector, Edith Grüner, who left the stuffed animal to Steiff after her death in 2010, along with a letter. The three-foot-tall rabbit was given to Grüner as a child during World War II, and when the family fled Germany, the

rabbit went with her. Grüner and her husband never had children, but they always considered the rabbit to be like a child, Pürckhauer said. It was with her when she died.

Since 1997, Steiff has hosted a threeday festival for fans and collectors. This July, more than 30,000 people from around the world attended the festival in Giengen. The annual event includes an auction of rare stuffed Steiffs.

This year’s festival set a record for antique teddy bears — the Steiff Titanic Bear Othello from 1912 sold for more than $196,000. Only a few hundred were made to honor those who died on the Titanic.

Photos for The Washington Post by Louisa Marie Summer Visitors enjoy at the annual Steiff Summer Festival.

”Landscapes & Legends of Norway: William Singer & His Contemporaries” — through Sept. 17, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. This exhibition uses Singer’s work and that of his contemporaries in the museum collection to look at the impact of Norway on the imaginations of various artists. A series of watercolors depicting Norse legends (yes, Loki and Thor) by American artist Frank Morse Rummel are also a highlight of the exhibition. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-739-5727 or wcmfa.org.

”al fresco” — through Sept. 30, Gallery 322, 322 N. Market St., Frederick. A celebration of the natural world and its power to inspire. This summer group show features regional artists Lissa Abrams, Michael Douglas Jones, Jan Kaufman, Linda Kirvan, Ann Schaefer, Anne Gibson Snyder, Russell Schofield, Tom Ritchie and Homer Yost, along with associate artists Jane Knighton, Roberta Staat, Leo Ramos, Paul Wilson and Karen Winston-Levin. 4 to 7 p.m. Fridays, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, or by appointment. 240-815-7777 or gallery322.com.

”Equinox” — through Oct. 1, NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St., Frederick. An all-partner show that explores the themes of fall, fall equinox and the changing seasons. NOMA Gallery’s artists work in a wide range of media including fiber, photography, printmaking, painting, sculpture, collage, drawing, ceramics and jewelry. Artists’ talk Sept. 23 from 4-5:30 p.m. The Artists’ talk will be immediately followed by a Fall Equinox Party. Noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, until 4 p.m. Sunday. 240-367-9770 or nomagalleryfrederick.com.

”Multifarious” — through Oct. 1, Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Featuring photography and artwork by Mary Paul Barnaby, who uses her photos as inspiration for most of her acrylic paintings. 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. eastsideartistsgallery.com.

”Daily Life” — through Oct. 1, DISTRICT Arts, 15 N. Market St., Frederick. Patricia

Weise paints in gouache and watercolor on paper and on cradled clayboard, creating intimate still lifes and interior spaces dealing with daily routine and memory. The paintings in this exhibition are a part of a continuing body of work she is calling the “Dishdrainer” series.

Noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-6954050 or districtarts.com.

“TAG/The Artists Gallery: Together Art Grows” — through Oct. 1, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Artwork in this exhibition is from the members of TAG, Frederick’s first artist-owned art gallery, which was established in 1990. Works in a variety of media. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656.

”Treasures of State: Maryland’s Art Collection” — through Oct. 22, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts,

401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. This collaborative exhibition, co-organized with the Maryland State Archives, features over 90 American and European paintings, sculptures, works on paper, and decorative arts from 1750 to present. Notable artists represented include the Peales, Jasper Cropsey, Thomas Wilmer Dewing, George Inness, Hugh Bolton Jones, Eastman Johnson, Giuseppe Ceracchi, and Giovanni Battista Piranesi. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-7395727 or wcmfa.org.

”This Majestical Roof: Impressions of Sky” — through Oct. 28, Gallery 50, 50 W. Main St., Waynesboro, Pa., Eight artists participating. 5 to 8 p.m. Fridays, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and by appointment. artsalliancegw.org.

”And Still We Paint” — through Oct. 29, Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. Shepherdstown Fri-

day Painters show. For gallery hours, call 301-473-7689 or visit frederickuu.org.

“Contemporary Innovations: Darla Jackson” — through Oct. 29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Philadelphia-based sculptor Darla Jackson attempts to reverse the perception of women’s self-defense often perpetuated by popular culture or omitted completely. The exhibition will include the imaginary weapons used by popular female characters as well as some of the animal sidekicks supporting these characters in their new roles. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

“John Petro: Snapshots from a Baltimore Community on the Edge” — through Oct. 29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This photography exhibition is the culmination of Petro’s project to document some of the community and culture in and around a half-mile section around Wilkins Avenue in southwest Baltimore. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

“Heidi Brueckner: Persona Grata” — through Oct. 29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Brueckner’s large-scale, figurative paintings explore themes like human nature, self-understanding and the relationship we have to storytelling, all by utilizing expressive color and experimenting with textured surfaces. The exhibit includes oil and mixed media paintings. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

“Amy Browning-Dill: Poem, Mortality, and Resurrection” — through Oct. 29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. The paintings and sculptures in this exhibition explore themes of death, decay and new life through the flora and fauna of the changing seasons. They are accompanied by excerpts of poetry from Rainer Maria Rilke, David the Psalmist and others. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

Courtesy photo

“John Petro: Snapshots from a Baltimore Community on the Edge” runs through Oct. 29 at the Delaplaine Arts Center in Frederick, featuring photography documenting some of the community and culture in and around a half-mile section of Wilkins Avenue in southwest Baltimore. Shown here, his image titled “Geraldine and family.”

Photo exhibition is cathartic tribute for parents who lost children to overdoses and substance disorders

By LAURA DUKES Special to The News-Post

When licensed counselor Jamie Eaton started a new organization about five years ago, it grew in the fastest and most tragic way.

That nonprofit, Living Through Loss, provides grief counseling, seminars, retreats and a general safe and open community for parents who lost children due to overdoses and substance disorders.

They are hosting a photo exhibition, “Abiding Love,” on Sept. 16 and 17 at 20 W. Second St. in Frederick.

The photos, all taken by Frederick photographer Fran Byrne, display parents holding up pictures of the children they lost. The photos are accompanied by short stories about who the deceased were as individuals.

Sharon View, for example, was photographed holding a picture of her son, Seanie, who died in 2020 just 25 days before he would’ve turned 40.

View, who lives in Frederick, said her son had an alcohol use disorder that she called “a long path of overdose.” She saw problems developing when he was in high school and college, but there was general denial from other family members.

“Alcohol is socially acceptable,” View said of society’s general refusal to take alcohol abuse seriously.

Things became worse during the COVID-19 pandemic and Seanie, who was married and a father of two, started to have some significant physical issues. Though he attended some virtual AA meetings, he died in August 2020.

Sam Beegley, who lives in Westminster, lost his daughter,

Hayley Nash, in 2020. He said Hayley, who was 35 when she died, struggled with mental health issues but lost insurance coverage. She had some help through public programs, but Beegley said they were not enough and she “started to self medicate to calm her mind.”

In February 2020, she took a substance that contained fentanyl and carfentanil and took her own life.

“Despite all of her faults, she was a valuable human being,” Beegley said of Hayley, whose teenage daughter he and his

wife are now helping to raise.

Beegley recalled how hard they laughed after his daughter cooked a chicken upside down, and said in the months following her death he didn’t even have the mental capacity to look at a takeout menu to order dinner. The worst feeling was that of being the only person in his position.

“I felt like I was the only one, and I carried a ton of shame,” he said.

Eaton said that’s exactly why she started Living Through Loss, which stemmed from

having a client who couldn’t find a group of other parents with similar experiences. The group “just kept growing, unfortunately,” Eaton said.

Everything the group does is completely free for all participants, with meals provided. Numerous boutiques will be onsite selling items and donating a portion of their proceeds to Living Through Loss. The group also receive funding from the organization Second Street and Hope, which is sponsoring the photo exhibition.

“There’s so much healing in this community,” View said.

Byrne became involved with the organization by connecting with Eaton on Facebook. He is originally from Ireland and said he did not have any experience with substance abuse within his family but knew about the fentanyl crisis in the U.S. through friends. Taking the pictures of parents holding photos of their children was more emotional than he was expecting.

“It was heartbreaking,” he said. “Just beautiful children.”

He also noted that in Ireland overdose deaths are frequently connected to poverty, but it seems to cross socioeconomic backgrounds in the U.S. Byrne also said in Ireland a lot of young people dealt with addiction as a result of a lack of activities and others preying on their vulnerabilities.

View said she believes there’s a huge genetic component when it comes to addiction, as everyone deals with various life stressors but some people just seem less predisposed to handle them.

There is also the issue of young people being prescribed opioids after sports injuries, Eaton added.

Eaton made sure every

If You Go

The exhibition and popup boutique is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 16 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 17. A reception will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Sept. 16.

parent would have the opportunity to view their own picture before they are presented to the public. There are 27 pictures total, most of which are of Maryland residents, but Eaton said they also have been working with a group from New York.

The photo exhibition will include some words from Frederick Mayor Michael O’Connor, who will speak at 4 p.m. Sept. 16.

“You’re going to have tissues at this?” View asked Eaton.

“Stock in tissues,” she responded.

Beegley posed for his picture along with his wife, which he said was a big step for them. He said sometimes at similar events he tries to take on more of a “worker” role and will preoccupy himself with a task, as it’s still very difficult to see his daughter in videos and photos.

“There’s no getting over this. We need to carry this; we need to survive,” he said.

Eaton said this might become an annual event.

“Grief and gratitude can sit at the same table, and grief and joy can sit at the same table,” she said. “It’s going to be that kind of day.”

Laura Dukes has written for The Frederick News-Post since 2013 as both a freelancer and staff writer. She lives in the Ballenger Creek area with her husband, son and twin daughters.

THE MARYLAND THEATRE PRESENTS Billy

Fran Byrne

Sharon View holds a photo of her son, Seanie Michael View, who died in 2020 just 25 days before he would’ve turned 40.

Artist in residence at Cunningham Falls State Park will host workshops

Art has been part of the history of national parks since the 1860s when Hudson River School painters captured the majestic Western landscapes that became our first iconic national parks. Their awe-inspiring works spurred Americans to preserve those lands for future generations. Artist George Catlin, during an 1832 trip to the Dakotas, was perhaps the first to suggest the idea of a national park. Catlin traveled extensively and noted that Indian civilization, wildlife and the wilderness were in danger unless they could be preserved “by some great protecting policy of government … in a magnificent park … a Nation’s Park, containing man and beast, in all the wild[ness] and freshness of their nature’s beauty!”

Today, there are artist in residence programs in more than 50 National Park Service units, which preserve the connection between arts and the

parks. Catoctin Forest Alliance manages the local artist in residence program jointly with Catoctin Mountain Park and Cunningham Falls State Park.

Cindy Stockton Moore is the current Catoctin Forest Alliance artist in residence at Cunningham Falls State Park, from Sept. 10 to 24. She is a Philadelphia based artist who works with locally foraged, aqueous media to create multimedia animations, works on paper and site-specific installations. Moore’s experimental, often collaborative, videos screen in festivals and exhibitions nationwide and abroad.

During her two-week residency, she will be working on-site outdoors. Programming will include a Drawing with Nature workshop at Thurmont Regional Library from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 16. During this hands-on workshop for all-ages, participants will visually explore the Library Nature Trail, sketching windfall specimens from the

www frederickartscouncil org

FAC’s Sky Stage

forest trail, experimenting with locally foraged inks and charcoal, and learning more about the relationship of natural color and the forest ecosystem.

As part of National Public Lands Day, Moore will present an Invasive Ink program from 11 a.m. to noon Sept. 23 at the Concessions Building at South Beach in Cunningham Falls State Park at 14274 William Houck Drive in Thurmont. During the work-

shop, participants will learn about unwanted botanicals in the park, while painting with a palette of colors created by the artist.

Selections for the Catoctin artist in residence program are made by a panel that includes art experts from local colleges. In addition to accepting a variety of visual media, the program in 2013 began accepting written media as well.

The AIR art collection has been on exhibit at the Delaplaine Arts Center in Frederick, the Thurmont Library, the Emmitsburg Library and the Visitor Center in the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park.

The program not only strengthens the bond between nature, art and the outdoors but the sale of the art produces funds to bring children to the parks for outdoor learning experiences.

Learn more at catoctinforestalliance.org.

Friday, Sept 15 @ 7:30pm: Key City Improv

Saturday, Sept 16 @ 8:30am: All Levels Yoga with Yogamour

Saturday, Sept 16 @ 7p: Seven Arts Archives: The Shamans of Sound

Sunday, Sept 17 @ 7p: Readings: Forgotten Female Playwrights

59 S Carroll St

Courtesy photo

The Great Frederick Fair!

Opens Sept. 15

More than 230,000 visitors attend the nineday Great Frederick Fair each year for family entertainment, live music on the Grandstand stage, motorsport events, amusement rides, contests and visits with the local agricultural community.

“There is nothing like the Great Frederick Fair. We get to bring people together and help them create memories that will last for generations,” said Nancy F. Keller, president of The Great Frederick Fair board of directors.

The Great Frederick Fair was established in 1822 for educational, scientific, farming and horticultural purposes. It is the oldest agricultural event in Frederick County.

This year’s event runs Sept. 15 to 23 at the Frederick Fairgrounds, located at 797 E. Patrick St. in Frederick. General admission tickets are available at thegreatfrederickfair.com for $8 or at the gate for $10. Kids 10 and under are admitted free. Concert tickets are also available online.

“There is truly something for everyone — animals, food, rides, exhibits, games, concerts, entertainment, shopping and more,” said fair general manager Karen Nicklas. “Each year, we try to go bigger and better with the entertainment while still creating a slate of artists that provide some variety with different decades and genres.”

GRANDSTAND PERFORMANCES

• Gin Blossoms, Sugar Ray, with guests Tonic & Fastball — 6:30 p.m. Sept. 15

• Zach Williams with Brennley Brown —

7:30 p.m. Sept. 16

• Elle King with guests Red Clay Strays —

7:30 p.m. Sept. 21

• Tracy Byrd and Jo Dee Messina — 7:30 p.m. Sept. 22

• Walker Hayes with Chase McDaniel —

7:30 p.m. Sept. 23

MOTORSPORTS

• Dirt Drag — 7 p.m. Sept. 17

• Tractor/Truck Pull — 6:30 p.m. Sept. 18

• Demolition Derby: Cars — 7 p.m. Sept. 19

• Demolition Derby: Trucks, Vans, and Figure 8 — 7 p.m. Sept. 20

TICKET DEALS

• Jack Pass — Includes 1 Gate Admission + 1 Ride All Day Wristband. Valid for any single day. Must be purchased before 5 p.m. on the first Friday, Sept 15.

• Lunch Bunch — Free gate admission to buy lunch at the fair — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 18 to 21

• Senior Citizen Days — Adults age 65 and up receive free gate admission from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 18 to 20

• Military Day —Free gate admission with military ID from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 20

• Fair Day — Kids 18 and under receive free gate admission from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 22

Complete information is available at thegreatfrederickfair.com.

Tracy Byrd proves he’s still ‘Keeper of the Stars’

BY CRYSTAL SCHELLE Special to The News-Post

When Tracy Byrd walked away from a chart-topping career in the early 2000s, he had one thing on his mind: family.

By the time he thought to take a break from the spotlight in 2008, he had put out nine studio albums and had a slew of country radio favorites under his belt, including the No. 1 hit 1993’s “Holdin’ Heaven,” the 1994 earworm “Watermelon Crawl” followed by 1994’s “The Keeper of the Stars,” which reached No. 2 and won him Song of the Year by the Academy of Country Music Artists. And in 2002, he hit a second No. 1 with “Ten Rounds with Jose Cuervo.”

Byrd, now 56, knew he was risking his music career where out of sight is out of mind. But if you ask him today if he has any regrets

Tracy Byrd with Jo Dee Messina

When: Doors open at 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22

Where: Great Frederick Fair at the Frederick Fairgrounds

Cost: $42 Track, $50 Grandstand

Annex Info: thegreatfrederickfair.com/ grandstand

about his time off the road, he emphatically says no.

“When I got off the road, I sold everything and went home for three years basically,” he said recently by phone, in a whisper of his Texan drawl while on the road in Kentucky. “It was the best decision I ever made in my life — for me and for my family, for sure.

And really, when I look back on it, for my career. When I decided to come back, all this work just came pouring in.”

Byrd will play all the hits that have made him a bonafide country music star on Sept. 22 in the grandstand at the Great Frederick Fair. Jo Dee Messina will be performing that evening as well.

When he finally got back on the road, Byrd said he was worried the fans wouldn’t show up.

“I honestly thought, they’ve probably forgotten about me, but it was just the opposite,” he said.

The fans were there and then some, oftentimes bringing a new generation of fans who love ‘90s country music. He said since 2012, he and his band have been touring nonstop.

But those days when he was

(See BYRD 30)

Courtesy photo

Tracy Byrd will take the grandstand stage on Sept. 22 at the Great Frederick Fair.

The Great Frederick

Jesse Valenzuela of the Gin Blossoms talks about his life of music ahead of Great Frederick Fair show

BY COLIN MCGUIRE Special to The News-Post

Jesse Valenzuela is a guitar player and singer for Gin Blossoms, who are set to take the Great Frederick Fair stage with Fastball, Sugar Ray and Tonic on Sept. 15. At 61 years old, he’s lived a life of music — most prominently as a member of Gin Blossoms, a band he joined all the way back in 1987. Since then, he’s co-written songs like “Until I Fall Away,” “Follow You Down” and “Til I Hear It From You,” among others.

We recently caught up with him to talk about the recent death of Smash Mouth’s Steve Harwell, what it’s like to tour these days, Nick Lowe’s greatness, finding balance and, of course, his excitement for playing Frederick.

al baseball player and make millions of dollars. But, actually, I think this was always probably going to be it.

Do you ever see yourself slowing down?

Yeah. You know, we have slowed down. We used to do a lot more shows a year, but we realized now that we don’t really have to, so we find other ways to stay musical. We probably play about half the shows now that we used to. I think the pandemic had a lot to do with that, too.

Did you use the pandemic to write a lot by yourself or even virtually?

Gin Blossoms

and Sugar Ray, with special guests Tonic and Fastball

When: 6:30 p.m. Sept. 15

Where: Frederick Fairgrounds, 797

E. Patrick St., Frederick Tickets: $40 for grandstand annex, $68 for grandstand, $75 for track Info: 301-663-5895, thegreatfrederickfair.com/grandstand

“It’s going to be a special show,” he says as the conversation wraps up. “Because it’s going to be the last show of the run, and that could lead to things getting out of hand. It should be fun. There are going to be a lot of hits. From the time it starts until the time it ends. Oh, we’re going to let loose on Frederick.”

How’s the tour been so far? Have the shows been good?

Yeah. It’s a short tour. We’ve only been out a week or so, but it’s been good. It’s felt like three months, but the shows have been really fun. It’s nice to see some terrific friends and some people I haven’t seen for years and years.

Are you going to go out again later this year?

I don’t think so. We do lots of weekends. This is probably our only sort of bus tour of the year. We have a really nice situation these days. We’re doing this run with these really great bands, and it’s been so good to see them play every night. Then, we usually go play one-offs or two-offs on the weekends. So, it’s a really nice situation.

Reading up on you a little, it seems like you’re just a big fan of music. And you’ve lived a life in music so far. Was there anything you wanted to do outside of music?

I would have loved to be a profession-

I released a record and a series of individual songs during the pandemic. I was locked up in my house in California, so I was recording and sending tapes to a producer, who is a dear friend, and they sent back bits and pieces. My son helped engineer it and we sent tapes to friends and have them put their parts on it, too. We did a lot of that. It hasn’t really changed since then. Maybe that’s the way a lot of people work now anyway, even though it’s kind of been that way for a long time. It’s nice because you can create in your own home. What kids can do these days with a computer and a good idea is pretty amazing.

That’s true. Are there any plans for new Gin Blossoms material soon?

No, there hasn’t been. We stay pretty busy and we’re pretty busy through the next year, even though it doesn’t seem like it. I did just have lunch with [guitarist] Scotty Johnson, and I asked him if he’d be into going into the studio in December to knock around some stuff and he said, “Of course!” So that could be fun.

Knowing how much you like music, are there any acts you’re really into these days? What are you listening to while you’re out on the road?

Not that they’re a new act, but I really like the new Wilco record. I think it’s beautiful. I love the new Rodney Crowell record [“The Chicago Sessions”]. I just think that’s absolutely beautiful. There’s a band that just came through town called Cigarettes After Sex. Wow, oh my gosh, that stuff is so beautiful. I didn’t go to the show, but I was

told it was just amazing.

Do you get out to shows a lot these days?

No, I don’t. It’s really not my bag. In the fall, I think I might make an effort to go see Nick Lowe play back East. He’s on a little tour.

Have you ever seen him live?

Oh, countless times. He’s one of my favorites of all time. And this time, he’s out with the wrestling mask band.

Yeah, I saw him and them open for Elvis Costello last summer, and they were incredible.

Yeah, they did that tour again this summer. Both times, I was on the road with Gin Blossoms, which made seeing it impossible. Lowe is out with Los Straitjackets and I think it’s going to be in Atlanta and maybe New York, so I was thinking about going to see that. I was also thinking about going to see a friend of mine, Marshall Crenshaw. He’s doing a celebration of his music and going on the road. I’m thinking about trying to fly in and have a little vacation, have a nice dinner, a couple glasses of wine and see some great music.

That sounds great. He’s pretty great.

I wanted to ask you — because I know you’ve done shows together before — about the recent passing of Steve from Smash Mouth. Did you know him well?

We toured with them a couple times, and he was a lovely man. We were acquaintances, and we certainly had a wonderful time when we saw each other. Scotty Johnson and I, for example, had a few really great late nights with Steve. I posted something on my social page the other day. He really was fearless and he really was kindhearted. He was one of those guys ... when he entered a room, he wanted to make sure everyone was enjoying themselves and he wanted to make sure everyone felt included. He had a real genuine concern for everyone. It just emanated from him. He was just a very warm person. I think there may have been some deep sadness within him, too. He didn’t touch on it too often, but he was one of those guys who, when you were around him, you knew you were around someone special. He had all that human energy that people gravitate to. Last night, Mark McGrath gave a really poignant speech about Steve during their show. I talked to Mark about it a couple days ago because

they were really close and really dear friends. It’s a sad passing because, like I said, he was a force of nature and he was bigger than life. What sticks with me was how kindhearted he was. He was a really good person.

How well is Mark holding up?

I think it’s just sadness. It’s life, but it’s just terrible. It’s nice because everyone has such beautiful thoughts about him, and we hope the best for his family and that’s what it is. I haven’t formulated too many words about it, but that’s what we all hope.

Did you have any favorite Smash Mouth songs you loved to hear when you guys went out with them?

Sure, I watched them all the time. I liked all their big singles like everyone else. “All Star” was fun, and my son was of the age when “Shrek” was a big deal and they were all part of that. It’s just such a great, warm memory, and they delivered the songs every night. All those guys in that band were fantastic, too. I know they’re still out there doing it. They have a new lead singer, who is terrific, too. They’re still out there playing knockout shows. When

you have a group of special songs like that, it makes people feel good, and it’s an honor to get to play that stuff every night.

Yeah, definitely. Speaking of that, is there a song you guys play every night that you’re looking forward to playing because of the way the people respond?

No, we just play the show. I just play the show every night, but we understand which songs the people connect with. We’re certainly going to play those every night, and we’re going to try to play everything to the best of our abilities and have a good time. People are there for a reason. I think it’s become more important in some ways since the pandemic because ... we don’t want to take anything for granted.

Are there bands out there you’d love to tour with but haven’t yet?

Well, sure. Of course. There’s lots of music I’d love to see. I wish I had gone to see Cigarettes After Sex because they were just in Phoenix a couple weeks ago. There’s all kinds of new music that I like. My son is on the road with a couple bands — the Mexican Slum Rats and The Red Pears. They’re doing a big tour that starts on Saturday.

Does he play guitar like you?

He is a guitar player, but he’s a guitar tech for them right now.

How cool was it for him to get into music? It must have been pretty fun for you.

Well, it was by no doing on my part. It was just something he always wanted to do, so that’s where his education went. He could do anything he wanted to do. We do play together back home. I play acoustic music at wine bars and stuff, and he plays guitar with me. That’s been really joyful. I didn’t know it was going to become ... well, I guess I did. I always knew music was important to him.

So music kind of runs in you two’s blood.

I don’t know. It’s just always sort of been a way to make a living. I definitely know more people who are much more musical than I am. But, I guess, having said that, I guess that’s all I’ve done my whole life. It’s hard to figure out your own self, is what I’m saying.

Do you think music has helped you find yourself at all in that way?

Hmm. I don’t know about that. It’s always been a profession, right? It’s something I love. But there have been times when I don’t listen to music very much. We get busy and other things take priority.

BY CRYSTAL SCHELLE Special to The News-Post

It would have been hard to predict the kind of year country artist Jo Dee Messina has been having.

She kicked off her Heads Carolina Tail California Tour in February. In March, Curb Records released “Heads Carolina, Tails California: The Best of Jo Dee Messina.” Her May performance with Cole Swindell for his song “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” at the American County Music Awards still has people talking. And in July, she dropped a new single, “Just To Be Loved.”

On Sept. 22, Messina will stop in Frederick to perform at the Great Frederick Fair on the same night as her friend and fellow country artist Tracy Byrd.

While driving through Nashville, 53-year-old Messina is quick to point out, “It’s been a heck of a bunch of years, but this one has been out of the blue. … It’s been great,” she went on. “It really opened my eyes because there’s anyone from ages 8 to 80 out there [in the audience], so it’s just been such a thrill for me to be able to go out and perform for folks and have it be such fun. People can kind of sense that when they’re at the show. It’s not a ‘hey look at me, I’m cool’ kind of thing. It’s more of a ‘hey, we’re here to have fun together and we really enjoy it.’”

When the Massachusetts native made her debut in 1996 with her self-titled album, it immediately gave her two top 10 hits, most notably “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” which hit the charts at No. 2.

But Messina was just getting started.

Her second album, 1998’s “I’m Alright,” garnered three No. 1 hits, “Bye, Bye,” “I’m Alright” and “Stand Beside Me,” and also a No. 2 hit with the Dottie West remake

of “Lesson in Leavin,” which stayed on the charts for seven weeks. It also gave her another top 10 hit, “Because He Loved Me.”

In 2000, she received the CMA’s Horizon Award. That same year, she released her third album, “Burn,” which gave her a fourth and fifth No. 1 hit, “That’s the Way” and “Bring on the Rain.”

And in 2005, Messina released “Delicious Surprise.” The album hit No. 1 on Billboard and gave her a sixth No. 1, “My Give A Damn’s Busted,” which she cowrote with Joe Diffie, who died in 2000.

Although her next few albums didn’t perform as well as she’d expected, Messina continued to bring music to her fans. She says she still has a lot to say musically. Although it’s been nice to look back at her body of work with the release of her greatest hits album this year, what’s getting her most excited these days is the new music she’s been writing and performing.

One of the most viewed performances from the CMAs was her 2022 appearance with Swindell, who co-wrote “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” with Ashley Gorley, Jesse Frasure and Thomas Rhett. The original songwriters of “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” Tim Nichols and Mark Sanders, also received credit for the song. Although Messina doesn’t actually appear on the Swindell version, the CMAs asked her and Swindell to perform a mashup of the two hits.

For Messina, it was somewhat of a full circle moment, as she’d performed her first hit at the CMAs. She also performed it with Swindell again at the AMAs. It exposed Messina to a different audience.

She had fun with Swindell and jokingly said she had to talk him down from want-

Jo

Dee Messina ready to hit the grandstand stage

Country artist Jo Dee Messina will play the Great Frederick Fair on Sept. 22.

Photo by Jake Harsh

Jesse Valenzuela of the Gin Blossoms. Shervin Lainez

SPONSORED

FILM

‘Feast Your Ears: The Story of WHFS

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BY COLIN MCGUIRE Special to The News-Post

Jay Schlossberg never wanted to get into making documentaries. The thing was, he always loved WHFS. As it goes, one day, after coming across a social media post, the filmmaker was inspired to tell the story of the original WHFS — its cast, its crew and its stories.

Those stories have now been collected in “Feast Your Ears: The Story of WHFS 102.3 FM,” a film that will be screened at the Weinberg Center for the Arts at 8 p.m. Sept. 16. All proceeds of the screening will go to the Weinberg as well as Women In Film & Video DC.

We caught up with Schlossberg recently to talk about how the film came to be, some of the stories he accrued while making the documentary, his hopes of selling the film and the role Josh Brooks, one of Frederick’s radio legends, played in the making of the movie.

How did you get this idea to begin with? HFS is such an institution, I would think this is something you spent a lot of time on.

First, I was a fan of the station as a teenager. I lived down there and I worked at the station for part of a summer between my junior and senior year. I was just a kid. So, it was kind of in my blood. It was a station I listened to and I worked there. It was just in me. How the movie happened was I’m in the television business. What I do for a living is I book local camera crew and production support in the U.S. and another 114 countries for my clients. That said, I’ve never produced a documentary before.

Joe’s Record Paradise down in Silver Spring was celebrating National Record Day April 20, 2013, and I was out of town for the weekend, but they had a panel of DJs there and they had a band later in the day. I got back on that Monday and turned on social media and the first thing on top of my timeline was a photograph of all the DJs.

Bob, Josh, Weasel, Damian — they were all there. I literally said out loud, “Oh my God, somebody has to tell this story.” It was just like a lightning bolt and I had no thoughts about ever producing a documentary film. I love them, but I never thought about actually doing one. So I called my editor and who ended up being my co-producer and I said, “I have this idea. What do you think?” And they said, “That’s a great idea.” The next call went to Josh [Brooks]. He said, “Oh my God, that’s a great idea.” Then we all met. Weasel still lives in the Triangle Towers in

Bethesda, so he got a lounge and we all met there. We had a big party, basically, and talked about it. I got everyone’s blessing, and that was kind of the seed from how this all started: a photograph on Facebook.

Is there an official release date so far?

It’s important to know this event at the Weinberg is not a premiere. This is a one-night sneak preview to benefit the Weinberg Center and Women in Film and Video D.C. As for when it will be released ... that would be when somebody buys it [laughs]. We have a couple film festivals we will be at that might end up coming with an offer, but there is no release date at this time. We are in festival mode and we are looking for a home for the film.

When you sat down with all these people for interviews, were there one or two that stuck out that were really illuminating? Were there things that you learned through the process?

Yeah. I’ve been asked this question before, but it’s actually really hard to answer it because ... were there things that I learned? Well, one theme that I know I can tell you about is that I kept being surprised over and over and over again about how many of these musicians remember HFS. If they went there in 1972 or ‘73, and here we are 40, 50 years later ... I contacted all these musicians myself and the one that surprised me the most was Roger McGuinn of The Byrds. I sent off an email and I expected to never hear from him again and I don’t know if it was the

next day or week, but he replied and his answer was, “Absolutely, yes.” And I was thinking, “How would he even remember HFS?” He left the Byrds in 1973 or 1974 and had a solo career. But guess who was playing his solo music? HFS. Anybody else? Nope. Was DC 101 playing him? Nope. And he remembered that and he remembered being there and he remembered how well he was treated and how much fun it was. It meant a lot to him and that was a great surprise.

Another one was while interviewing Taj Mahal at the Birchmere before a show, I had seven or eight questions for him and I knew I had 20 minutes. Right before the interview starts, his manager walks over and whispers into my year, “You’ve got 10 minutes.” So, in my brain, I’m going, “Seriously?! How am I going to get to all these questions?” So, the tape starts, and before I even say, “Taj,” he just started talking. He answered three of my questions before I even asked him. I was just quiet and let him talk. That was amazing that he did that. He started talking about AM radio and FM radio and how much it meant to an artist like him. He talked about Bonnie Raitt and John Prine and Tom Waits. Then, he said, out of the blue, one of his favorite D.C. bands was Sky Cobb. He said that was the best band he ever heard in Washington. I looked at him and said, “You remember Sky Cobb?” Because they were a band for maybe a year or two and they didn’t really get famous like the Nighthawks or have an extended career. But he remembered from 50 years ago how

Courtesy photo Cerphe Colwell, right, with Frank Zappa.

Courtesy photo

Weasel of WHFS.

102.3 FM’ documentary screening in Frederick

good this band was and how talented the D.C. market was.

Did anyone acknowledge HFStival?

No, because the HFStivals were in the ‘90s. WHFS, 102.3, in Bethesda, shut down on July 14, 1983. What they did have, in 1973 and 1974 or 1975 was the WHFS Homegrown Festival. It was nothing like the HFStival — they weren’t putting 50,000 people in RFK Stadium — but it was all local musicians, whoever was famous at that time. It was a homegrown music festival.

HFS sold in 1983 and Jake Einstein took his share — he was a minority owner — and he bought two radio stations in Annapolis. Four months later or so, they relaunched as WLOM, which I’d say maybe 60% of the staff went to work for. Within a week or a month or two months, the SEC granted him WHFS. That’s how 99.1 was born. He sold it five years later to a corporation that moved it to Latham. At that point, they were a fully corporatized WHFS. Bethesda was completely free-form in every way, shape or form. They were never told what to play at any time ever. Annapolis had that spirit. I think there were some things they did have to play, but they could basically do what they wanted. By the time they moved to Latham, it was completely corporate, so those DJs couldn’t pick what they wanted to play.

I talked to people who were fans of the station in the ‘90s and they want to talk about how they heard the new Green Day song and the new Nirvana thing. It seemed like this great new station playing this great new music, but it was actually the great new music that the corporations were allowing them to play. But the HFStivals — whoever thought of that idea, it was a great idea because it made a lot of people really happy.

I’m glad you brought that up because it was something I wanted to ask about. Talking to all those guys while knowing it was once independent and freeform but then got corporatized years later, were any of the DJs or people who worked at the original HFS bitter?

Well, you know, I never really asked. Weasel stayed until 2003, and they shut down in 2005. Damian got fired and there was a big “save Damian” rally — 8,000 people showed up, but it didn’t work, because he was still fired. He had a speech impediment from an accident he had in 1975. That story is in the movie. But, yeah. I never really asked anyone, “How did that make you feel?” But I kind of already know. They lost control

and creativity. These DJs in that era were artists. They were like musicians. They were living and expressing in the moment how they were feeling. Maybe someone came in to do a shift and their boyfriend just left them. Well, they’re going to be sad, so maybe they’d play six blues songs about losing your lover. When Nixon resigned, there was a halfhour set all about politics and Nixon and they played side two of “Abbey Road.”

They made political and social and cultural statements through the music. They weren’t ranting and raving on the air. We were getting the messages through the music. It was really this living, breathing entity that you couldn’t really put in a box. But they were living in the moment to express whatever they wanted to express.

Was there anyone you didn’t get for the film because you weren’t able

to land them?

There were a couple. One said he just didn’t do documentaries. It was the most honest response I got from anybody. I didn’t get too many no’s. The only person that I really wanted, I couldn’t get because he was already very sick with cancer. He was getting treatment and everyone hoped he’d get better, but he never got better. He was a huge influence on the music I like and the music I played. So that was sad, but pretty much everyone, if we got to the musician, they would say yes.

How do you view the legacy of HFS? What did it mean to you as a person and a music fan?

The best way I can explain why I went through this is for me, this is a love letter to the DJs, the employees, the owners and the fans. It’s to everybody who realized what this was and plugged into the hub of what HFS represented in the community. It’s my love letter to them. It’s very important to me. One joke I tell is that if you want to get rich, be a documentary maker. Because no. It’s the exact opposite. I’m not doing this for the money. I’ve had to fund it, but I’m the only one who hasn’t received a dime. Everyone else — the crew, story consultants — got paid. If we sell the movie, maybe I’ll get a few shackles, but I’m not doing it for the money. I’m doing it for the love of it and what it meant to me and what it meant to so many people.

It’s not about talking about the good old days. It’s not about saying how much better things were in the good old days. That’s not what this is about. This is about shining a light on how special this was, what a moment in time this station was, and how completely outside of the corporate box it was. It’s about what it meant to the tens of thousands of people who listened in the D.C. area. I know I’ve passed along music that I discovered on HFS to my grandson and my granddaughter. I’m sharing music with them that I learned from back then. That’s why it’s got life. It was so much more than a business in so many ways.

Finally, I want to touch on Josh Brooks and his influence in this. He was a radio legend and a Frederick legend, and I loved being around him anytime I was lucky enough to be around him. Any final words on Josh?

Josh Brooks was just a beautiful guy in so many ways. He was an integral part of HFS and turning it into all it became, along with Sara Vass and Mark Gorbulew. I think without the three of them, it would have never achieved what it did.

Courtesy photo

HFS DJs Adele Abrams, Thom Grooms, Weasel, Cerphe, Davide Einstein, Damian Einstein and Josh Brooks.

Courtesy photo

Taj Mahal in the new documentary.

Local Mentions Local Mentions Local Mentions Yard Sales

BEEF OR CHICKEN PLATTERS

Carry-out/Eat under pavilion

Burkittsville Ruritan Club

Choice of Hot Roast Beef Sandwich

w/Gravy or 4-pc Fried Chicken, Mac and

Cheese, Green Beans, Applesauce and Cold Drink - $15/platter

Pre-order by Sept 16

Pick-up on Sept 23 (1-4p) Call 301-371-7795

CASH BINGO

Jefferson Ruritan Club Community Center

Sponsored by St Paul’s Lutheran Church, Burkittsville

Saturday, September 30th

Doors open: 5:30pm

Bingo starts: 7pm

20 games + Specials + Raffles

$25 per person

Bring a canned good for the local food bank

Food and drinks available Info call: 301-473-5299

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN ORCHARD

Kiwi Berries, Blackberries, Nectarines, White & Yellow Peaches, Sweet Plums, Watermelon, Sugar Cube Cantaloupe, Rambo, Gala, Summerset, Honeycrisp Apples, Bartlett Pears, Kale, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Green & Yellow Summer Squash, Sweet Corn, Cabbage, Fresh Apple Cider, Fresh Baked Fruit Pies, Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Cider Slushies & Caramel Apple Bread

Sundaes Jams & Jellies

U-Pick Apples Sat & Sun 10-3

Cut Your Own Flowers

301-271-2737

Open Daily 9am-5pm 15036 North Franklinville Rd Thurmont MD

www catoctinmountainorchard com

HOLIDAY CRAFT AND VENDOR EVENT

Hosted by Vigilant Hose Co

Activities Bldg , 17701 Creamery Rd

Emmitsburg, MD

Sat Dec 2nd, 9 to 3

Sun Dec 3rd, 9 to 2

Many Crafters and Vendors including Fresh wreaths, plants as well as silk floral arrangements

And much more!

Food available for purchase

Visit with Santa Saturday and Sunday

Photos Available for sale

Bring families, children and pets!

For more info contact: Sharon Keeney 410746-8776, MaryLou Little 240-285-3184 or Kenny Cevinger 240-393-0758

HOLIDAY

CRAFT SHOW

Sat., Sept. 16, 9am-4pm

Sun , Sept 17, 12pm-3pm

Local craft vendors and food

Benefits St Jude’s at Doubs Methodist Church 5131 Doubs Rd Adamstown, MD Call 443-841-5149

New Midway Vol Fire Co BINGO BONANZA

October 7, 2023

More than $5000 pay out 25 Games – 2 Fill the Card [$1,150 each] $50 00 per person includes Buffet Meal For Information text: 301-639-8963

PRYOR'S ORCHARD

FREESTONE PEACHES

Yellow & White

Honey Crisp, Ginger Gold & Gala Apples

Bartlett Pears red & white

Tomatoes, Melons, Lopes

Sweet Corn, Green Beans

Cucumbers, Pickles Red Beets, Zucchini

Patty Pans, Yellow Squash

Honey, Jellies, Sparkling Cider Call FIRST - 301-271-2693

2 mi West of Thurmont off Rt 15 Take 77W

1 mile to Pryor Rd

www PryorsOrchard com

SCENIC VIEW ORCHARDS

Fresh Apple Cider

Bi-color Sweet Corn

Peaches, Laurel & Victoria, September Snow

Pears, Bartlett, Asian Sugar, Red Clapps, Seckel Apples: Gala, Ginger Gold, Honey Crisp, Tomatoes

Romas, Cabbage, Cantaloupes, Watermelons

Red & Yukon Potatoes

Green Beans, Onions

Brussels, Cucumbers

Squash, Egg Plant, Kale

Honey, Canned Fruits & Vegetables, Jams and Jellies

16239 Sabillasville Rd

Sabillasville MD

Open daily 10:00-6:00

301-271-2149

www scenicvieworchards com

Frederick Farmers Market 1215 West Patrick St

Saturdays 10:00-1:00

YMCA Farmers Market 1000 North Market St

Tuesdays 3:30-6:30

SPORTSMAN’S BINGO

Sat. November 11, 2023

New Midway Vol Fire Co

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

Doors open: 5:00 pm

Buffet Dinner: 6:00 pm

Games Start: 7:30 pm

Beer and Wine Coolers on Sale: No outside alcohol

$40/Person Includes Buffet Dinner Call Buddy 301-271-4650 or Nick 301-898-7985

THE LITTLE RED WAGON

Farm Fresh Sweet Corn! Your Fall Décor is Here! Many colors of mums; Pumpkins, Straw Bales, Indian Corn, Acorn Squash, Fall fruits & veggies! 11434 Keymar Rd Woodsboro, MD 21798 Live Info: 240-439-9401

VIGILANT HOSE COMPANY

NEW YEAR'S EVE BINGO

17701 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg, MD

Sunday, 12/31/Doors Open @ 5pm/Games @ 8pm All Inclusive 9 pk/$50 for 50 games incl 4 $1000 Jackpots

All other games $200/Incl Dinner Platter! Reserved seating if tickets purchased by 12/15

Tickets purchased after 12/15 will be $60

No checks mailed after 11/24 For info: Pam @ 240-472-3484 or @ Marylou @ 240-285-3184

Reserve right to change payouts if 200 are not sold

ROBIN MEADOWS COMMUNITY YARD SALE

Saturday, September 16th 8am – 12pm.

Community of 525 homes located off New Design Road in Frederick, MD Rain Date is Sunday, September 17th

WORMAN'S MILL COMMUNITY YARD SALE

Fri, Sept. 15 5 p.m. to Dusk Sat, Sept. 16 and Sun, Sept. 17 8 a m to 5 p m

Miscellaneous

2 CEMETERY PLOTS at Rest Haven 2 plots Garden Christus, Lot #6A, Space 1 and 2, valued at $6200 Must sell, financial problems Need the money really bad Please make offer Larry 301432-6826

CEMETERY PLOTS FOR SALE

Crest Lawn Cemetery in Marriottsville, MD Located in the Garden of Gethsemane section, #702, sites 3 & 4 $5,600 ea or both for $10,500 (current value: $7,300 ea ) For more info call or text 301-412-0376 or 301-275-2526 or email beachcomber201@comcast net

Pets & Supplies

TIBETAN MASTIFF X

12 weeks, shots, wormed, obedience started, 3 F, 1 M $500 240-447-7615

Thursday Sept. 14

CLASSES

Homeschool 101 — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Thinking about homeschooling? Just starting your homeschooling journey? Come find support and information from experienced homeschoolers in an informal Q&A session. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/ homeschooling-101.

The Hidden History of Claire McCardell: Modern Design and the Birth of American Fashion — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. Author Elizabeth Evitts Dickinson discusses fashion icon, designer and Frederick native McCardell who made revolutionary designs that helped women live independent lives. From the 1930s through the 1950s, McCardell pioneered ingenious new designs that remain staples of our wardrobes today. Dickinson is currently writing a book about McCardell. Register in advance.

$8 museum members $10 general public. 301-739-5727. cschelle@wcmfa.org. wcmfa.org/concerts-lectures-2/.

Volunteer Information Sessions — Literacy Council of Frederick County — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Via Zoom, . Recruiting volunteer tutors to work with adults one-to-one or in small groups of 2-3 adults. No previous experience required. Attendance of a volunteer session is required prior to registering for a tutor training workshop. frederickliteracy.org.

ETCETERA

The Hagerstown and Frederick Railway Exhibit — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. From 1896 until 1954, a network of interurban trolley lines were built linking communities across Frederick and Washington counties. This exhibit presents the history of these electric railways and how they changed the

landscape and communities of Frederick County. Through Dec. 22.

$12, $10, $8. Tonya@FrederickHistory.org. cognitoforms.com/HeritageFrederick1/ stitchesthroughtimeexhibittickets.

“The Fashion of Claire McCardell” — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. Features 12 of the designer’s fashions. McCardell, a Frederick native, was a designer who redefined American women’s fashion during the 1930s to the 1950s. She designed casual sportswear for women that was comfortable yet stylish. 301-739-5727. cschelle@wcmfa.org. wcmfa.org/claire-mccardell-on-display.

D.H. Hill and the Defense of Turner’s and Fox’s Gaps — noon to 2:30 p.m. at The South Mountain Inn, 6132 Old National Pike , Boonsboro. Early in the morning of Sept. 14, 1862, Confederate General D. H. Hill arrived at the Mountain House in Turner’s Gap. He quickly learned that the Union army was in proximity in larger numbers than expected. Hill then proceeded to reconnoiter both Turner’s and Fox’s Gaps to determine how to best defend the mountain. This battlefield hike will start at Turner’s Gap and follow the trace of the Woods Road as Hill did the morning of the battle and will continue as we examine the morning phase of the battle at Fox’s Gap. The hike will begin at the South Mountain Inn and will cover rough and uneven ground; wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water and insect repellent. Program will last about 2.5 hours.

jamesn.johnston@maryland.gov. dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/ western/southmountainbattlefield.aspx.

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration , 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and make new, like-minded friends. All are welcome, no membership requirements. Need a partner? Contact our Player Representative, Karol McIntosh, at karolmcin@yahoo.com.

$7. 301-254-4727. sharonwcox@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

The Pennsylvania Reserves and the Fight for Turner’s Gap — 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at The Gaver Farm, 9209 Frostown oad, Middletown. Late in the afternoon of Sept. 14, 1862, Union General George Meade’s Pennsylvania Reserve Division moved into position to attack South Mountain just to the north of the National Road.  Opposing them were  Confederates from Robert Rode’s’ Alabama Brigade and eventually, Nathan Evans’ South Carolina Brigade. Learn about this fight as you hike the ground where it happened.   The hike will begin at the Gaver Farm (ABT property). The hike will cover rough and uneven ground; wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water and insect repellent. Program will last about 2 hours. jamesn.johnston@maryland.gov. dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/ western/southmountainbattlefield.aspx.

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. Improve your reading confidence and make a new friend when you read aloud to a Go Team Therapy Dog. All ages. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

The Historic Sykesville Colored Schoolhouse — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Carroll County Public Library, Eldersburg Branch, 6400 W. Hemlock Drive, Eldersburg. For adults. The Schoolhouse first opened in 1904 and, at that time, was the only school for people of color in Southern Carroll County. The last class graduated in the late 1930s, and now it serves as a museum and learning center. Join Pat Greenwald, Schoolhouse Coordinator, as she presents the history of the Sykesville Historic Colored Schoolhouse and its restoration and use for a Homework Club. Registration is required. Visit site for details. 410-386-4460. ask@carr.org. ccpl.librarymarket.com/event/ historic-sykesville-colored-schoolhouse.

Author Event with Clay McLeod Chap-

man — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at C Burr Artz Public Library, 10 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Celebrate the release of Clay McLeod Chapman’s Southern gothic horror book, “What Kind of Mother.” He will discuss the book, answer questions and sign books. Books will be available for purchase at the event. 301-695-2500. cimarketingassistant@gmail. com.

Pour House Trivia — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Champion Billiards Sports Bar, 5205 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. Come on out with the team and play some Pour House Trivia. 7 p.m. start. Extended Happy Hour from 4 to 8 p.m.  301-846-0089.

frederickchampions.com/weekly-specials.

FAMILY

Teen Chess Club — 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Carroll County Public Library, Eldersburg Branch, 6400 W. Hemlock Drive, Eldersburg. For ages 11-17. Are you an expert chess player or interested in learning? Compete and learn new skills at our monthly chess club! New and experienced chess players are welcome. 410-386-4460. ask@carr.org. ccpl.librarymarket.com/event/ teen-chess-club.

FESTIVALS

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices.

Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

FILM

“Casablanca” (1942) — 7 p.m. at Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg, Pa. Kick

off Gettysburg’s World War II weekend with a night at the movies featuring one of the most popular films of all time. $8. 717-337-8200. gettysburgmajestic.com.

MUSIC

Alive@Five: Stitch Early & the Populatn — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Amphitheater, Frederick. Live music. Outdoor happy hour. Ages 21 and older only, with ID. $6 entry plus $6 drinks. Food available for purchase.

301-698-8118. downtownfrederick.org.

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

301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com/events.

Friday Sept. 15

ETCETERA

Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Beth Sholom Congregation, 1011 N. Market St., Frederick. Celebrate the Jewish New Year with Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services at Beth Sholom Congregation in Frederick. Join our welcoming community, beginning with Rosh Hashanah under the stars at Baker Park. 205-572-2907. solomonjt2003@yahoo.com. bethsholomfrederick.org/worship/holidays.

High Holiday Services — 7 p.m. at Chabad Jewish Center, 1 W. Ninth St., Frederick. Join us for the High Holidays. Shanah Tovah! Celebrate the High Holidays among friends and connect with your inner self. Services will be interspersed with explanations and page guidance. In short, you will feel at home. Wishing you and yours a very happy and sweet new year!

301-996-3659. info@jewishfrederick.org. jewishfrederick.org.

FESTIVALS

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices.

Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

MUSIC

Friday Nights Live — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at American Ice Co Cafe, 62 W. Main St., Westminster. Support musicians who play every Friday night. The stage behind the café is the perfect place to spend warm summer nights with a glass of wine, bottle of beer, or one of our specialty lattes.

443-952-0552. gabby.aic.co@gmail.com.

Elvis & Orbison: The Classics Tour — 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at The Capitol Theatre, 159 S. Main St., Chambersburg, Pa. Featuring nationally acclaimed Roy Orbison Tribute Artist Jesse Aron and International Grand Champion Elvis Tribute Artist  David King! Both bands are backed by The SpinOuts Tribute Band. Reminisce with a medley of the iconic hits of Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley! Concessions will be available for purchase.

Adults: $39, seniors 60+: $34, Military, Frontline Workers: $30, 18 & under: $29. 717-263-0202. vperry@thecapitoltheatre.org. thecapitoltheatre.org.

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

301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com/events.

THEATER

“A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. A distant heir to the D’Ysquith family fortune sets out to speed up the line of succession by using a great deal of charm ... and a dash of murder. “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” is a romp of music and laughs as low-born Monty Navarro designs a plan to knock off his unsuspecting relatives without being caught and become the ninth Earl of Highhurst.

$45-$64. 301-662-6600. wob@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

The Art of Comedy: Improv Night with Oh, Crit! — 7:30 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. An interactive, audience-participation evening with hilarious regional improv groups on third Fridays in through October.

$10. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/programs/ sky-stage.

Potomac Playmakers - Neil Simon’s “God’s Favorite” — 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Potomac Playmakers Performing Arts Center, 17303 W. Washington St., Hagerstown. In the play, successful Long Island businessman Joe Benjamin is a modern-day Job with a demanding wife, ungrateful children and wise-cracking household employees. Just when it seems things couldn’t get any worse, he is visited by Sidney Lipton, a.k.a. a Messenger from God (and compulsive film buff) with a mission: test Joe’s faith and report back to “the Boss.” The jokes and Tests of Faith fly fast and furious as Neil Simon spins a contemporary morality tale like no other!

$18. 240-513-6260. potomacplaymakers@gmail.com.

Saturday Sept. 16

CLASSES

All-Levels Yoga — 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., , Fred-

erick. With experienced instructors from Yogamour, a Frederick-based studio and non-profit. Saturdays through October. $15. 301-662-4190. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/programs/ sky-stage.

Intro to Cyanotypes: Historical Photographic Process — 10 a.m. to noon at The Common Market Co-op, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. In this workshop, participants will be introduced to cyanotype, a historical alternative photography process popularized by 19th-century botanist Anna Atkins. Gain an understanding of the historical photographic process, make an artistic composition and walk away with three unique works of art! Produce and flowers from Common Market, that would otherwise be discarded, will be used as subject matter. Participants are also encouraged to bring in their own repurposed or collected items.

$40-$60. 301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop.

Advanced Garden Techniques — 10 a.m. to noon at University of Maryland Extension Office, 330 Montevue Lane, Frederick. Comfortable growing standard vegetables? Ready to grow the more difficult and demanding options? Learn tips and techniques to expand your options and growing seasons.

301-600-1596. strice@umd.edu.

Freedom BANG Fitness Class — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch LIbrary, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. A pre-choreographed fusion of boxing, HIIT, hip hop, world dance, optional weighted gloves and just a touch of attitude. Offering a wide range of intensity options to help you customize your workout. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

Drawing with Nature Workshop — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. During this hands-on workshop for all-ages, participants will visually explore the Library Nature Trail, sketching windfall specimens from the forest trail, experimenting with locally foraged inks and charcoal, and learning more about the relationship of natural color and the forest ecosystem. 301-600-7200. fcpl.org.

Goat Yoga — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery, 11836 Auburn Road, Thurmont. Enjoy a tasting and Goat Yoga at Springfield Manor. $42. 240-405-2208. christy@gvalleye.com. goatforthesoul.com.

ETCETERA

OG~OV Open Auditions — 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 107 W. Main St. (rear entrance), Middletown. One God ~ One Voice Community Choir is looking for new members. Interested singers are invited to open auditions. This is non-denominational and is made up of singers from Frederick and Washington counties. The choir performs locally at nursing homes and senior communities, has sung at the White House, the LDS Temple and

yearly is part of the Frederick Candlelight Tour. OG~OV also gives free Spring and Christmas concerts at local churches. Interested singers should call David Cutler, choir president, at 301-606-4444. 301-606-4444. d.l.cutler@comcast.net. ogovchoir.org.

Preparing for Marriage — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Marriage & Relationship Education Center, 255 Clifton Blvd., Suite 213, Westminster. For engaged, seriously dating or recently married couples. Topics include communication and conflict management, intimacy and affection, financial goals, maximizing differences, date nights and more. Includes materials and snacks. Pre-register. $99 per couple. 410-386-9003. mrecenter.org.

Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur — 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Beth Sholom Congregation, 1011 N. Market St., Frederick. Celebrate the Jewish New Year with Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services at Beth Sholom Congregation in Frederick. Join our welcoming community, beginning with Rosh Hashanah under the stars at Baker Park. 205-572-2907. solomonjt2003@yahoo.com. bethsholomfrederick.org/worship/holidays.

High Holiday Services — 9:30 a.m. at Chabad Jewish Center, 1 W. Ninth St., Frederick. Join us for the High Holidays. Shanah Tovah! Celebrate the High Holidays among friends and connect with your inner self. Services will be interspersed with explanations and page guidance. In short, you will feel at home. Wishing you and yours a very happy and sweet new year! 301-996-3659. info@jewishfrederick.org. jewishfrederick.org.

Frederick Art & Architecture Walking Tour — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Length: 90 minutes. Look at Frederick with new eyes. Experience the history and beauty of downtown as we explore some of the popular architectural styles, local art, and history. Tour starts at the Museum of Frederick County History. RSVP required. $12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. Tonya@FrederickHistory.org.

frederickhistory.org/programs/adults/ walking-tours.

Autumn Liqueur Release — noon to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Tastings, full pours, spirit tasting flights and cocktails made from a favorite fall elixir, Autumn Liqueur. Autumn Liqueur is Tenth Ward’s original apple brandy made from McCutcheon’s apple cider, melded with ginger, plum, black tea, turmeric, allspice, cinchona bark, sage, fennel, saffron and slightly sweetened with local honey. 301-233-4817.

francie@tenthwarddistilling.com.

Freedom’s Jubilee — noon to 4 p.m. at Dahlgren Chapel, 1514 Old National Pike, Middletown. A commemoration and celebration of Emancipation & the Abolitionist Movement in Maryland. The event features four skilled historical interpreters portraying historic abolitionists figures as well as period music and photography and reenactors in period costumes. The event focuses on rarely covered topics like

Emancipation, the Abolitionist Movement in Maryland, anti-slavery activities, and the contributions of African American soldiers to the war effort.

240-446-5607. info@cmhl.org.

Schifferstadt Architectural Museum — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Explore the home of Frederick’s pioneer family, the Brunners. Built in 1758, it is the oldest surviving building in the city and a National Historic Landmark. Inside is the only known example of a German heating system that provided safe, clean, energy-efficient radiant heat. Learn the story of the desperate German immigrants who fled dire conditions in Europe and came to prominence in Frederick County. Walk in for a guided tour.

$8 for adults, free for under age 12. 301456-4912. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Frederick. Journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge. True documented stories of the paranormal with Maryland’s oldest operating Ghost Tour. Uncover political savvy and defiant citizens, patriots from the Revolutionary War, beckoning soldiers from the Civil War. Reservations recommended.

$15. 301-668-8922. info@marylandghosttours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

FESTIVALS

Bluemont Fair — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bluemont Community Center-and throughout the historic village, 33846 Snickersville Turnpike, Bluemont, Va. An old fashioned “Green” Country Fair, features traditional crafts (juried), local art and authors, craft and farming demonstrations, music: traditional/blues/country, free Children’s Fair, petting zoo, llamas  and alpacas, quilt display, gardener’s shed, blacksmithing and stone wall building demonstrations, homemade food/baked goods/jams & jellies, pie-baking/pickle-making contest, antiques & collectables, wine and beer garden with gourmet treats, Bluemont history slide show, Snickersville Academy — a restored 1825 log schoolhouse, beekeepers and hives, antique caboose, pre-Civil War country store, farmers market, model trains, and lots of hands-on activities.

$10 adults/ages 9 and under free. 540-554-2367. chair@bluemontfair.org. bluemontfair.org.

Corvettes at Westrdige — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Westridge Plaza, 1005 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Presented by the Frederick County Corvette Club. Vehicle entrance fee by donation; spectators free but donations accepted, to benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Raffles, door prizes, and some really cool Corvettes! Rain date is Sept. 17. 301-639-0124.

frederickcountycorvetteclub.com.

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides,

ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

Maryland Wine Festival — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Carroll County Farm Museum, 500 S. Center St., Westminster. An annual celebration of Maryland wine. Enthusiasts of local wine and fans of great local festivals are invited to enjoy the beautiful grounds of the Farm Museum while exploring local wine, shopping from juried artisans, and dancing to live music. This year’s event will take place on Saturday only. Free. info@marylandwine.com. marylandwinefestival.org.

MUSIC

Seven Arts Archives Presents: The Shamans of Sound — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. The Shamans of Sound reggae band headlines, including horn section and special guest vocalists! Presented by Seven Arts Archives. The Let There Be Rock School of Frederick presents Black Locust (alternative post-hardcore) on support.Doors & bar open 6:30pm. Other small concessions available. Carry-in food OK, no alcohol BYOB.

$10, under 12 free. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/programs/ sky-stage.

Great Frederick Fair: Zach Williams — 7:30 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Christian rock artist/ musician. Brennley Brown opens. $48 grandstand, $55 track, $35 grandstand annex, plus $5 handling fee. 301-695-3928.

thegreatfrederickfair.com/grandstand.

FILM

Feast Your Ears – The Story of WHFS

102.3FM — 8 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Take a trip back to the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s when “free form” progressive FM radio was in its heyday in America. Broadcasting from “high atop the Triangle Towers” near Washington, D.C., the legendary & beloved WHFS was more than just a local radio station — it was the voice of a generation. Hear from local, national and international musicians, the ‘HFS deejays, record label veterans, journalists, historians, fans and more as they reflect on a time when the music united a tribe who spoke out via the radio waves about war, equality and a time of great social, cultural and political upheaval.

$10. 301-600-2868. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ feast-your-ears-the-story-of-whfs-102-3fm.

THEATER

“A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. A distant heir to the D’Ysquith family fortune sets out to speed up the line of succession by using a great deal of charm ... and a dash of murder. “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” is a romp of music and laughs as low-born Monty Navarro designs a plan to knock off his unsuspecting relatives without being caught and become the ninth Earl of Highhurst. $45-$64. 301-662-6600. wob@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

Potomac Playmakers: Neil Simon’s “God’s Favorite” — 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Potomac Playmakers Performing Arts Center, 17303 W. Washington St., Hagerstown. In the play, successful Long Island businessman Joe Benjamin is a modern-day Job with a demanding wife, ungrateful children and wise-cracking household employees. Just when it seems things couldn’t get any worse, he is visited by Sidney Lipton, a.k.a. a Messenger from God (and compulsive film buff) with a mission: test Joe’s faith and report back to “the Boss.” The jokes and Tests of Faith fly fast and furious as Neil Simon spins a contemporary morality tale like no other.

$18. 240-513-6260. potomacplaymakers@gmail.com.

Sunday Sept. 17

CLASSES

Fall Natural Dye Workshop with Natalie Love — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Fox Haven Farm, Retreat & Learning Center, 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson. Learn about making your own natural dye using seasonally abundant herbs! This class will inspire you to upcycle and recapture waste for a fun natural project you can show off! Natalie will show you how to prepare a dye bath, dye cloth, and make your own design using all-natural ingredients. After the dye demo, you will be painting your own bandana with whatever inspires you, and take it home! $35. 240-490-5484. alecks@foxhavenfarm.org. foxhavenfarm.org.

Ground Work Faith Based Money Class

— 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Brook Hill United Methodist Church, 8946 Indian Springs Road, Frederick. Groundwork is a six-week faith-based class for mastering money.  $50. 301-662-1727. brookhill@bhumc.org. brookhill.ccbchurch.com.

ETCETERA

Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur — 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Beth Sholom Congregation, 1011 N. Market St., Frederick. Celebrate the Jewish New Year with Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services at Beth Sholom Congregation in Frederick. Join our welcoming community, beginning with Rosh Hashanah under the stars at Baker Park.

205-572-2907. solomonjt2003@yahoo.com. bethsholomfrederick.org/worship/holidays.

High Holiday Services — 9:30 a.m. at Chabad Jewish Center, 1 W. Ninth St., Frederick. Join us for the High Holidays. Shanah Tovah! Celebrate the High Holidays among friends and connect with your inner self. Services will be interspersed with explanations and page guidance. In short, you will feel at home. Wishing you and yours a very happy and sweet new year!

301-996-3659. info@jewishfrederick.org. jewishfrederick.org.

Boat & Brew Smoketown — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brunswick Family Campground, 40 Canal Road, Brunswick. Hosted by River & Trail Outfitters. A 6-mile paddle on the Potomac River, followed by a taste of craft beer at Smoketown Brewery in Brunswick, a behind-the-glass tour and meet the brewery team.  $92. 301-834-9950. river@rivertrail.com.

Carillon Recitals in Baker Park — 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Joseph D. Baker Tower and Carillon, Baker Park, Frederick. On the 49 bells of the carillon, played mechanically from a keyboard of batons and pedals by city carillonneur John Widmann and guests.

301-788-2806. jwidmann@yahoo.com.

Civil War Style Church Service — 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Historic Rocky Springs Chapel, 7817 Rocky Springs Road, Frederick. Nondenominational church service conducted by a preacher wearing Civil War period

attire and worshipers sing hymns that were popular during the American Civil War. Most sermons preached were originally delivered between 1861-1865. A short living history program immediately follows each service. The wearing of Civil War period attire is encouraged but not required. Sundays through Nov. 19. 321-610-7246. debbymoone@gmail.com. historicrockyspringschapeland schoolhouse.org.

Schifferstadt Architectural Museum — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Explore the home of Frederick’s pioneer family, the Brunners. Built in 1758, it is the oldest surviving building in the city and a National Historic Landmark. Inside is the only known example of a German heating system that provided safe, clean, energy-efficient radiant heat. Learn the story of the desperate German immigrants who fled dire conditions in Europe and came to prominence in Frederick County. Walk in for a guided tour. $8 for adults, free for under age 12. 301456-4912. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.

“Shepherdstown Remembers Antietam” — 3 p.m. at Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. An original film written and produced by local history researcher Jim Surkamp. The film describes the Battle’s impact through the eyes of Shepherdstown-area residents of the time, many of whom mobilized to aid wounded and hungry soldiers. A short Q&A

will follow the film. harriet@operahouselive.com.

2 For The Road — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cactus Flats, 10026 Hansonville Road, Frederick. Variety of music.

High Holiday Services — 6 p.m. at Chabad Jewish Center, 1 W. Ninth St., Frederick. Join us for the High Holidays. Shanah Tovah! Celebrate the High Holidays among friends and connect with your inner self. Services will be interspersed with explanations and page guidance. In short, you will feel at home. Wishing you and yours a very happy and sweet new year!

301-996-3659. info@jewishfrederick.org. jewishfrederick.org.

Great Frederick Fair: Dirt Drag — 7 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. $23 grandstand, $18 grandstand annex (no track seating), plus $3 handling fee. 301-695-3928. thegreatfrederickfair.com/grandstand.

FAMILY

Mount Airy Duck Race — noon to 4 p.m. at Mount Airy Activities Building, 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mt Airy. A family event to raise money for the Mount Airy Fire Company and the Mount Airy Rotary Club. Racing Rubber Ducks, plus lots of free games for the kids, live duck race at the end, food for purchase by the Mount Airy Fire Company. 304-704-7818. rewilcher@gmail.com. mountairyduckrace.com.

FESTIVALS

Maryland Psychic Fair — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Clarion Inn Frederick Event Center, 5400 Holiday Drive, Frederick. 44 vendors, indoor event, free parking, donations accepted. Many of the best psychics, mediums, healers, and readers of all types, along with related arts and crafts vendors from Maryland and the surrounding areas. RSVP. 703-772-0847. eventpsychics4u@gmail.com. md-psychics-fair-2023.eventbrite.com.

Bluemont Fair — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bluemont Community Center-and throughout the historic village, 33846 Snickersville Turnpike, Bluemont, Va. An old fashioned “Green” Country Fair, features traditional crafts (juried), local art and authors, craft and farming demonstrations, music: traditional/blues/country, free Children’s Fair, petting zoo, llamas  and alpacas, quilt display, gardener’s shed, blacksmithing and stone wall building demonstrations, homemade food/baked goods/jams & jellies, pie-baking/pickle-making contest, antiques & collectables, wine and beer garden with gourmet treats, Bluemont history slide show, Snickersville Academy — a restored 1825 log schoolhouse, beekeepers and hives, antique caboose, pre-Civil War country store, farmers market, model trains, and lots of hands-on activities.

$10 adults/ages 9 and under free. 540-5542367. chair@bluemontfair.org. bluemontfair.org.

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pick-

your-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices.

Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

MUSIC

Sunday Brunch Concert Series — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Shab Row Stage - Everedy Square, 100 N. East St., Frederick. Enjoy live acoustic music performed by local/regional musicians at the cutest outdoor live music venue in Mid-Maryland - the Shab Row Stage. Held every Sunday behind the Frederick Coffee Co. through September.   301-639-1050. todd@toddcwalker.ccom.

RECREATION

Gran Fondo Maryland — 8 a.m. at Baker Park, 500 Fleming Ave., Frederick. For riders of all abilities. The event offers riders a choice of three distances of 30, 60 and 100 miles. The 2023 & 2024 USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championships will be held in conjunction with Gran Fondo Maryland. To compete in the National Championship category riders must qualify (see website for more details). Riders do not need to qualify to participate in Gran Fondo Maryland. Registration fee information on website. 765-247-2453.

reuben.kline@granfondoseries.com. granfondonationalseries.com/ gran-fondo-maryland.

THEATER

“A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” — 12:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. A distant heir to the D’Ysquith family fortune sets out to speed up the line of succession by using a great deal of charm ... and a dash of murder. “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” is a romp of music and laughs as low-born Monty Navarro designs a plan to knock off his unsuspecting relatives without being caught and become the ninth Earl of Highhurst. $45-$64. 301-662-6600. wob@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“Expressing Willie” — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. What happens when a newly-moneyed Mid-Western toothpaste magnate finds himself living the life of the Great Gatsby only to have his plucky, Mid-Western fiancee arrive from the heartland? Will valor and values prevail over glitz and glamour? Perhaps not in the ways one might expect! Join us for this comedy by Rachel Crothers, part of the Forgotten Female Playwrights series.  Free. 301-305-1405. christinem@esptheatre.org. www.esptheatre.org/shows.

Potomac Playmakers: Neil Simon’s

“God’s Favorite” — 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Potomac Playmakers Performing Arts Center, 17303 W. Washington St., Hagerstown. In the play, successful Long Island businessman Joe Benjamin is a modern-day Job with a demanding wife, ungrateful children and wise-cracking household employees.

Just when it seems things couldn’t get any worse, he is visited by Sidney Lipton, a.k.a. a Messenger from God (and compulsive film buff) with a mission: test Joe’s faith and report back to “the Boss.” The jokes and Tests of Faith fly fast and furious as Neil Simon spins a contemporary morality tale like no other! $18. 240-513-6260. potomacplaymakers@gmail.com.

Monday Sept. 18

CLASSES

Meditative Dance Movement — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. The dance experience starts with a brief guided meditation involving breathing, stretching, shaking and gentle yoga-like movements to help become more heart-centered and embodied. Then, dance music starts slow and then ramps up over time. $10. laurabsherwood@gmail.com.

ESL High Beginners Conversation Class — 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at Walkersville LIbrary, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. For 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 LCFC. Registration is required by the LCFC at https://forms. office.com/r/24eh22Ryw7.  301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

ETCETERA

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration , 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and make new, like-minded friends. All are welcome, no membership requirements. Need a partner? Contact our Player Representative, Karol McIntosh, at karolmcin@yahoo.com.

$7. 301-254-4727. sharonwcox@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Karaoke Nights and Paint Your Own Pottery — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hot Fired Arts, 1003 W. Seventh St., Suite D,, Frederick. Join us! 301-788-9749. Stayfocusedone@mac.com.

Great Frederick Fair: Tractor/Truck Pull — 6:30 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. $23 grandstand, $18 grandstand annex (no track seating), plus $3 handling fee. 301-695-3928. thegreatfrederickfair.com/grandstand.

FAMILY

Turtle Story Time — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro. Learn about the various species of turtle that live in Maryland and what makes each one unique. Enjoy a gorgeous book about a very special Eastern Box Turtle, and complete a craft. Ages 3+. Meet at the Nature Nook, next to concessions. 301-791-4656. laura.nalven@maryland.gov. dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/ western/greenbrier.aspx.

Bear Cubs Group — 11 a.m. to noon at Dancing Bear Toys, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Bear Cubs (formerly Babies at the Bear) will take place each Monday in September. Activities include storytime, interactive songs, baby sign language and more. No registration is required. Intended for children under the age of 2. 301-631-9300. cimarketingassistant@gmail.com. fb.me/e/1nFkQtcXW.

FESTIVALS

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

RECREATION

Advocates for Homeless Families Golf Tournament Fundraiser — 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Clustered Spires Golf Club, 8415 Gas House Pike, Frederick. Fundraiser to aid homeless families. Tickets include a light breakfast, lunch, use of practice facilities and 18 holes of golf. There will be prizes. $150 per golfer. 301-662-2003. kallread@afhf88.org. ahfgolf.com.

THEATER

“Expressing Willie” — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. What happens when a newly-moneyed Mid-Western toothpaste magnate finds himself living the life of the Great Gatsby only to have his plucky, Mid-Western fiancee arrive from the heartland? Will valor and values prevail over glitz and glamour? Perhaps not in the ways one might expect! Join us for this comedy by Rachel Crothers, part of the Forgotten Female Playwrights series.

Free. 301-305-1405. christinem@esptheatre.org. esptheatre.org/shows.

Tuesday Sept. 19

CLASSES

Making the Switch to a Climate-Friendly Diet — 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Common Market Co-op, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. If you have been thinking about switching to a more plant-based diet, but aren’t sure how, join us for this fun and informative talk by Alison Wexler, a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, culinary coach, and Frederick County Food Council Steering Committee member.

301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop/classes-events/ eating-for-health-the-planet-making-theswitch-to-a-climate-friendly-diet.

ETCETERA

The Fashions of Claire McCardell — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. Features 12 of the designer’s fashions. McCardell, a Frederick native, was a designer who redefined American women’s fashion during the 1930s to the 1950s. She designed casual sportswear for women that was comfortable yet stylish. Exhibit continues through Nov. 12. 301-739-5727. cschelle@wcmfa.org. wcmfa.org/claire-mccardell-on-display.

Pride On The Patio — 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Showroom, 882 N. East St., Fredrick. Weekly LGBTQIA social mixer. Relaxed an casual. Happy hour pricing, full menu available; drink special Gender Fluid. 21 and older. 240-409-8858. prideonthepatio@gmail. com.

facebook.com/PrideOnThePatio.

Karaoke Nights and Paint Your Own Pottery — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hot Fired Arts, 1003 W. Seventh St., Suite D,, Frederick. 301-788-9749. Stayfocusedone@mac.com.

Feed the People: An Open House with the Frederick Community Fridge Group — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Library, 10 E. Patrick St., Frederick. The Frederick Community Fridge invites community members to participate in a presentation and open discussion about the community refrigerator and services offered. All are welcome.

301-524-4443. reggieyinger@gmail.com.

Great Frederick Fair: Demolition Derby — Cars — 7 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. $23 grandstand, $18 grandstand annex (no track seating), plus $3 handling fee. 301-695-3928. thegreatfrederickfair.com/grandstand.

Late Night Happy Hour — 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Champion Billiards Sports Bar, 5205 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. All the drink prices from regular happy hour from 9 p.m. to close with select half-price appetizers.  301-846-0089.

frederickchampions.com/weekly-specials.

FAMILY

Fall Alpha Session — 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at Bernard W. Brown Community Center, 629 N. Market St., Frederick. Got questions? Ever wondered if this is all there is? Alpha is a series of sessions exploring the basics of faith in an open, informal environment. Join us for a free meal, video and conversation. All are welcome! info@FriendsRoundtable.org. friendsroundtable.org.

FESTIVALS

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

FILM

Art Center Bijou — 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. Meet on the second, third and fourth Tuesdays for Bijou, a curation of films presented by Falling Squares. Brief discussion of the film(s) after the viewing.

301-662-4190. artcenter@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/news-events/ calendar-grid.

MUSIC

Patio Music Series — 5 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Let There Be Rock will showcase the acoustic talent of three to four student bands. The garden will be filled with friends new and old, and wine and/or beer vendors will be present. RSVP required. 301-663-1188. Tonya@FrederickHistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

Ching-Yun, Pianist — 7:30 p.m. to 9:35 p.m. at St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York St., Gettysburg, Pa. A concert of Chopin, Rachmaninoff and Liszt is planned. Opening concert of the 80th season of the Gettysburg Community Concert Association. $20, under age 18 and college students with ID admitted free. 717-339-9610. pmagaldi17@gmail.com. gettysburgcca.org.

RECREATION

Senior Basketball — 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Walkersville Recreation Center at the Walkersville Elementary School , 83 W. Frederick St. (turn west on to Antietam Street), Walkersville. Basketball for all seniors. No set teams, all skill levels welcome. Just for fun and exercise. $2.00 per session. 240-651-1865. g.blessing@ieee.org.

THEATER

“Expressing Willie” — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. What happens when a newly-moneyed Mid-Western toothpaste magnate finds himself living the life of the Great Gatsby only to have his plucky, Mid-Western fiancee arrive from the heartland? Will valor and values prevail over glitz and glamour? Perhaps not in the ways one might expect! Join us for this comedy by Rachel Crothers, part of the Forgotten Female Playwrights series.  Free. 301-305-1405. christinem@esptheatre.org. esptheatre.org/shows.

Wednesday Sept. 20

CLASSES

Forage Your Own Gin with McClintock Distilling — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fox Haven Farm, Retreat & Learning Center, 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson. In this immersive experience, you’ll be transported through the history and art of distilling. Then get hands-on to create your very own recipe! A local distiller from McClintock will introduce the art of gin-making through the centuries. You will have the opportunity to

sample many styles of craft gins and spirits. Afterward, we’ll walk the herb garden to harvest fresh herbs and botanicals to create your very own gin to take home and enjoy. 21 and older.Included in the cost of this class, you will receive a bottle of organic vodka, an infusion jar, and your unique blend of botanicals to take home. $65. 240-490-5484. alecks@foxhavenfarm.org. foxhavenfarm.org.

ETCETERA

Karaoke Nights and Paint Your Own Pottery — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hot Fired Arts, 1003 W. Seventh St., Suite D,, Frederick. 301-788-9749. Stayfocusedone@mac.com.

Great Frederick Fair: Demolition Derby — Trucks, Vans and Figure 8s — 7 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. $23 grandstand, $18 grandstand annex (no track seating), plus $3 handling fee. 301-695-3928.

thegreatfrederickfair.com/grandstand.

Late Night Happy Hour — 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Champion Billiards Sports Bar, 5205 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. All the drink prices from regular happy hour from 9 p.m. to close with select half-price appetizers.  301-846-0089.

frederickchampions.com/weekly-specials.

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to

–

The PEABODY PREPARATORY is Frederick’s new premier community music school.

Private lessons in violin, viola, cello, piano, guitar, and voice are offered for students of all ages and skill levels.

Fall semester begins September 6. In partnership with the YMCA of Frederick County

peabody.jhu.edu/frederick 667-208-6640

“LET US TAKE YOUAWAY”

•ROCKY COASTOFMAINE

BarHarbor, ME

Oct. 1-5 •Call for Details

•POTOMAC EAGLE TRAIN Romney,WV•Tues.Oct.17• $165.

•SUNFEST –O CE AN CIT Y Oct. 18 –20•Call for Details

•FALLINVERMONT

Fairlee,V T•Oct.23– 27 Call for Details

•CHRISTMAS @MT. HOPE Mt.HopeEstate •Manhiem,Pa. Tues.Nov.7• $102.

•BIRD IN HAND STAGE

Show: “OURCHRISTMAS DINNER” Bird in Hand, PA . Fri. Nov. 10 •$114.

• MAGIC& WONDER THE ATRE Paradise,PA•Nov.30• $115.

•AMERICANMUSICTHE ATRE

Show: “THE FIRST NOEL”

Lancaster, PA •Dec.14or21•$119.

•A DAYINNYC

NewYork, NY •Sat. Dec.16•$95.

•RADIO CIT YCHRISTMAS SPECTACUL AR

NewYork, NY •Mon. Dec. 18 •$209.

•SIGHT &S OUND THE ATRE

Show: “MIRACLEOFCHRISTMAS”

Strasburg, PA •Dec.20• $146.

•DUTCH APPLEDINNERTHE ATRE Show: “A CHRISTMAS CAROL”

Lancaster,PA•Wed.Dec.21• $119.

•DUTCH APPLEDINNERTHE ATRE Show: “TRIBUTETOTHE KING” (ELVIS TRIBUTE)

Lancaster,PA•Dec.31•$133.

301-797-5277/1-877-301-5277

CALL FOR DETAILSONOVERNIGHTTOURS • VISIT US AT WWW.BAERTOURS.COM

ALLTRIPS LEAVE FROM HAGERSTOWN

6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices.

Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

HISTORY

“African Americans and Native Americans in the Revolutionary War” — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Frederick Community College JBK Theater and Lobby, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. The Sgt. Lawrence Everhart Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, and the African American Resources Cultural and Heritage Society (AARCH), will co-host the third event in the “America 250 Speakers Series.” As many as 8,000 African-Americans and Native Americans fought in the American Revolution. The presentation will be given by Charles Jameson, past president of the Culpeper Minute Men Chapter of the Virginia SAR. Ages 21 and older. 571-235-4649. douglasjones.dj51@gmail.com. mdssar.org/lawrenceeverhart.html.

Thursday Sept. 21

CLASSES

Embodying a DEI Mindset: Internal Shift & External Action — 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Frederick Community College - Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Featuring Kevin Skwira-Brown, as part of the Innovators of Thought Speaker Series. frederick.edu/inauguration/home.aspx.

ETCETERA

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration , 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and make new, like-minded friends. All are welcome, no membership requirements. Need a partner? Contact our Player Representative, Karol McIntosh, at karolmcin@yahoo.com.

$7. 301-254-4727. sharonwcox@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Sensory Box Premiere for adults with disabilities — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Drop in for conversation and exploration as we unveil our new Sensory Box for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. After Sept. 21, the box will be available anytime at the Brunswick Branch Library for in-library use. It will contain seasonal crafting materials, puzzles and games.

301-600-7250.

Heritage Frederick Fall Fundraiser — 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Thacher and Rye, 228 N. Market St., Frederick. An exclusive and elegant evening in support of Heritage Frederick. Your ticket includes happy hour

by the Shed, 2 complimentary drinks, and passed hors d’oeuvres, followed by an elegant 3-course with wine pairing dining experience with the team at Thacher & Rye. Happy hour starts at 5 p.m., cocktails and mingling until seated, dinner seating between 6-9 p.m. RSVP required, ages 21 and older. Free. 301-663-1188.

Tonya@FrederickHistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

Author Event with Lisa Perrin — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Frederick Social, 50 Citizen’s Way, Frederick. Join Curious Iguana at Frederick Social to welcome author and illustrator Lisa Perrin to celebrate the release of her fascinating true crime book, “League of Lady Poisoners.” 301-695-2500.

cimarketingassistant@gmail.com.

Pour House Trivia — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Champion Billiards Sports Bar, 5205 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. Come on out with the team and play some Pour House Trivia. 7 p.m. start. Extended Happy Hour from 4 to 8 p.m. 301-846-0089.

frederickchampions.com/weekly-specials.

FESTIVALS

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices.

Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

MUSIC

Alive@Five: Movimiento — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Amphitheater, Frederick. Live music. Outdoor happy hour. Ages 21 and older only, with ID. $6 entry plus $6 drinks. Food available for purchase. 301-698-8118.

downtownfrederick.org.

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

Central Pennsylvania Ragtime & American Music Festival — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at East Broad Top Railroad, 421 Meadow St., Rockhill, Pa. Four days of musical fun featuring Grammy-Award Winning Artists performing American popular music from a century ago. Ragtime, blues, stride, boogie boogie, jazz and more will be played by some of the country’s leading exponents of early American popular music. This year’s festival features Frederick Hodges, Adam Swanson, Virginia Tichenor, Marty Eggers, The Crown Syncopators Trio, T.J. Muller, Bryan Wright, Bill McNally and Andrew Greene.

$20-$200. 443-694-4116. rockhillragtime@ gmail.com.

rockhillragtime.com/tickets.

Great Frederick Fair: Elle King with Special Guests Red Clay Strays — 7:30 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. $42 grandstand, $50 track, $32 grandstand annex; plus $5 handling fee. 301-695-3928. thegreatfrederickfair.com/grandstand.

Toad The Wet Sprocket — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Still making new music and touring with the same spirit of independence that started it all over three decades ago.

$55 and up. 301-600-2868. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ toad-the-wet-sprocket/.

Amy Grant in Concert — 7:30 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Amy Grant’s career spans more than 40 years and stretches from her roots in gospel into becoming an iconic pop star, songwriter, television personality, and philanthropist. $49 and up. 301-790-2000. mdtheatre.org.

Friday Sept. 22

CLASSES

Brain Boost: Doing Business in Frederick (And How the City Can Help!) — 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cowork Frederick, 122

E. Patrick St., Frederick. Speaker: City of Frederick Department of Economic Development. Learn about the City of Frederick’s role in supporting local businesses and tips on getting help with funding, promotion and more. Ends with Q&A session. Pre-register. ainsley@coworkfrederickfoundation.org. coworkfrederickfoundation.org/ brain-boost-business-in-frederick.

ETCETERA

Car Free Day 2023 — across the Metropolitan DC Region. Celebrated internationally every Sept. 22, in which commuters are encouraged to get around without driving alone in cars, and instead, carpool, vanpool, use public transit, telework, bicycle, walk, or scooter. To participate, fill out the pledge form on the website. 800-745-7433. ridematching@mwcog.org. carfreemetrodc.org.

Blessing & Dedication of New Seton Shrine Museum — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, 339 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. The first renovation in 40 years. New center uses engaging storytelling techniques to bring new vibrancy to Mother Seton’s message of faith and hope.  301-447-6606. setonshrine.org/museum.

2023 Sass Choice Awards Gala — 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling, 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. This years gala theme is Black+White. There will be amazing food and appetizers to enjoy, a cash bar, dancing, mingling, and more! We encourage you to dress it up or keep it lowkey, whatever makes you feel your best! If you want to get into the theme, wear your best

black+white attire and dance the night away. The event space on the second floor is only accessible by stairs. 21 and older, RSVP required.

$50. 301-360-5888. katy@sassmagazine.com. sassmagazine.com/event/ sass-choice-awards.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Frederick. Journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge. True documented stories of the paranormal with Maryland’s oldest operating Ghost Tour. Uncover political savvy and defiant citizens, patriots from the Revolutionary War, beckoning soldiers from the Civil War. Reservations recommended.

$15. 301-668-8922. info@marylandghosttours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

FAMILY

Moonlight Mothing — 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro. Celebrate the equinox with an insect adventure! Come see what beautiful and unique lepidoptera are flying around Greenbrier at night. Meet at the East parking lot. Registration required, email Laura. Nalven@maryland.gov. Limit:20 people. 301-791-4656. laura.nalven@maryland.gov. dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/ western/greenbrier.aspx.

FESTIVALS

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. Free. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

HEALTH

Western Maryland Light the Night — 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Carroll Creek Park, 50 Carroll Creek Way, Frederick. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night Walk brings light to the darkness of cancer by funding lifesaving research and support for people battling cancer. Family, friends, and co-workers gather together to celebrate, honor, or remember those touched by cancer. Registration is free, but walkers are encouraged to raise funds to support the mission.

katie.jones@lls.org. lightthenight.org/events/western-maryland.

MUSIC

Friday Nights Live — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at American Ice Co Cafe, 62 W. Main St., Westminster. Support musicians who play every Friday night. The stage behind the café is the perfect place to spend warm summer nights with a glass of wine, bottle of beer, or one of our specialty lattes. 443-952-0552. gabby.aic.co@gmail.com.

VALENZUELA

(Continued from 16)

I wanted to touch a little on nostalgia. When it comes to doing these kinds of tours, how gratifying is it to know that 20, 30 years later, you still have songs that are passed through generations? How does it feel to know you’ve been a big part of people’s lives?

Did they pass through generations? Because I don’t know. We play to our crowd. I guess. I don’t know. It feels terrific to be able to play music every night for people who want to hear us. There’s a great feeling of pride knowing there’s a handful of songs people associate with you, and it makes them happy.

I think a song like “Hey Jealousy” has transcended generations. That seems to pop up everywhere still.

Well, that’s good to hear.

BYRD

(Continued from 15)

enjoying being a dad and a husband are something that Byrd realizes are memories he would have missed had he been on the road. At the time, his daughter was about to graduate high school. He said he was able to help her move in to college, and his boys were 13 and 8.

“I just gave it all up, and I was coaching my sons’ AAUW teams, basketball and baseball teams,” he said. “I didn’t do anything. I hardly picked up a guitar that first year. At that point, I had been doing it for 22 years nonstop. When I said I was shutting it down, I shut it down.”

Those three years were some of the best years of his life, he said. “I was lucky to be able to do that.”

When he stepped away from music, Byrd had thought he had a good run — that his music was something he once did.

“There’s no reason to do something like this if you don’t have a passion for it,” he said. “When I got off the road, I thought I’d never go back.”

But his self-mandated sabbatical didn’t last as long as even he thought. Because as most singer-songwriters can attest, the ability to make music is a gift.

“After about a year and a half, I started writing some songs, I started playing a few acoustic shows in Texas with just me and my guitar, just doing hour sets here and there and dabbled back into it,” he said.

Soon, he was enjoying himself so much that he asked his guitar and piano players to start joining him for a few shows as a trio. Then, as his passion for music had fully rekindled, Byrd decided to put the entire band together for some

more shows. And then he bought a bus that eventually took them back on the road.

In the meantime, Byrd continues to write and is “itchin’ to do another studio album,” he said. His last was the self-released “An American Texan” in 2016. He said he likes not having to be dependent on a label or even radio, now that artists tend to stream singles to test the waters — but he’s trying to motivate himself in the next year to complete a full album, and he promises it will be quintessential Tracy Byrd.

“I don’t like to try new things. I know what I’m good at and I know what I’m not good at,” he said.

Those who come out and see him perform at the Great Frederick Fair should expect nothing less than his country music with a splattering of his biggest hits, maybe with an Eagles song thrown in.

“We have a great band, a steel guitar and fiddle, like it should be in country music,” he said.

He’s played several shows with Messina and is excited to see her again at the fair — “the coolest chick around,” as he put it.

Byrd said they haven’t performed any songs together but added, “It would be a blast to do.”

For those who want to brush up Byrd’s songs, check out one of his cuts that he believes should have been a bigger hit, “A Little Love,” from his 1999 album “It’s About Time.” It’s one of his favorites.

“I didn’t write it,” he admitted. “But I wish I had.”

Crystal Schelle is a journalist whose work has been published locally, regionally and nationally. She enjoys trivia, cats and streaming movies.

I just have to think that it’s a really nice thing to be able to do that. It’s a life of music, right? You’ve been able to live a life of music.

Yeah, you’re absolutely right. It’s been a long, long time playing. I don’t know how many years it’s been since Gin Blossoms have been together, but it has been a life of music. I guess I never think of it in terms like that because I just

MESSINA

(Continued from 16)

ing everything to be perfect for the performance.

Although it’s nice to revisit older hits, Messina is busy looking forward.

“The new stuff is coming from a fresh place of maybe a little more wisdom — not saying that I’m really smart or have it all together, but the song ‘Just To Be Loved’ comes from a perspective of watching the world around us and how much kids are getting caught up in stories created online. It’s all fantastic, and nobody’s life is fantastic all the time, and kids comparing themselves [to that] are really hurting because they see this online. To be able to share God’s love for them, how they’re created perfect and how much he already loves them, that they don’t have to go out and sell themselves out to be loved.”

Because the industry is more single-driven than album-driven, Messina was reluctant to say whether “Just To Be Loved” is part of a bigger project.

“I’ll take a writing session and just throw it up online,” she said. “And it’s kind of what that song was. It started off with the writer going, ‘You know, so many people need to hear this. Let’s just upload it for those people who need to hear it.’”

Coinciding with her song “Just To Be Loved,” Messina started the You

get up every day and do it. I guess that’s what it is. My mother told me once, after she witnessed what it was to be a full-time musician and work at the pace we do, she said, “I realize how difficult of a career it is and how hard you have to work and how smart you have to be to stay ahead of everything and keep everything in focus.”

The hardest part of having a career in music is you have to hold on to balance. That can be difficult with the traveling involved. There are so many different aspects to this career, so you need balance. You want to keep your health, and you want to keep your sanity and do your best for your family, and that can be difficult when you’re traveling a lot.

You’ve been able to balance it, it seems.

Well, I’m trying [laughs].

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.

Are Loved campaign. She sells bracelets with a metal ring that says “You Are Loved” to remind people that they are, she said.

“Your kid goes to school and they feel alone because they’re a new kid at a new school, and they’re wearing this bracelet, they can look down and know you’re not alone. You are loved. So this song is spawning a lot of things.”

As a mom of two sons, Messina said motherhood helped her with the message.

“That’s how I know what kids are up to these days. I wouldn’t know that if I wasn’t entrenched in middle school and high school,” she said.

She also teaches choir for children as young as 16 months up to eighth graders.

As promised, Messina is keeping busy writing, including a single she collaborated on with Christian artist Ben Fuller called “He Got A Hold Of Me.” She said she’s also filming some things for TV.

During her stop at the Great Frederick Fair, Messina said fans will hear her ‘90s hits, as well as some of her new songs.

“It’s going to be fun,” she said. “We have a lot of fun together onstage and really enjoy each other, and we’ve played this fair before, so we’re really looking forward to coming back.”

Courtesy photo

Tracy Byrd

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