72 HOURS Dec. 12, 2024

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FESTIVE FARMS

Three businesses come alive with Christmas spirit

SWEET REVEAL!

We were all curious to see the final piece after visiting Frederick Community College’s culinary students while they were building a massive gingerbread display for the Willard InterContinental Hotel in D.C.

RIP JOHN HOLLY

We want to extend our condolences to the friends and family of John Holly, a beloved, longtime figure in the Frederick arts community, who died on Dec. 2. Those who knew him knew a gentle, unique soul, a visionary artist and poet, who was passionate about the arts. For a time, he owned and ran Spirit Gallery in Frederick, a studio and exhibition space to show work by local artists, and also became known here for his seasonal readings of “The Raven” and “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” The family plans to host a celebration of life ceremony in the spring in Frederick.

THE DELAPLAINE IS A MUST-STOP

The Delaplaine Arts Center solidifies its a reputation for showing great artwork this month with its current collection of exhibitions on view. Stop in when you’re downtown to take in the shows spanning a wide diversity of mediums and breadth of talent, among them Margaret Dowell’s large oil paintings of her Southern Maryland farm in the large gallery on the first floor; Ally Christmas’ introspective show of images printed on delicate (and, in some cases, handwoven) fabrics in “/bodycrumbs”; and the Clustered Spires Quilt Guild show displaying both traditional and art quilts. Also a pleasant surprise is the “hallway” show upstairs, featuring photographs and photographic collages on birch of abstracted water, from a mountain stream to the geysers of Yellowstone, by Linda Agar Hendrix. “Waterworks” is a refreshing look at something we might take for granted in our everyday lives.

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN!

Get to downtown Frederick with the kiddos on Friday night for one of Frederick’s annual holiday traditions, the Kris Kringle Procession, which runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. through town, ending at the Baker Park Bandshell with the lighting of the City Christmas Tree. Kris Kringle won’t be there alone; he’ll be joined by Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Pelsnickle, Weinacht Man, the Snow Queen and other characters. See celebratefrederick.com for details, including a map of the route.

RAK BREWING’S FIRST BIRTHDAY

RAK Brewing Co. will host its one-year birthday bash from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday at 400 Sagner Ave., Unit 100, in Frederick, where guests can hear music from Chevre Band (2 to 4 p.m.) and DJ Ahmad (7 to 10 p.m.), get $1 RAK Lites and giveaways, and enjoy the anniversary stout release and exclusive brews. Chris Sands hosted RAK’s founder and owner Steve McIntyre and head brewer Branden Roth in his most recent episode of the UnCapped podcast, which you can hear at fnppodcasts.com/uncapped.

SIMPLE THEORY WINE OPENS IN DOWNTOWN FREDERICK

Simple Theory Wine Co. will celebrate its opening in downtown Frederick at 37 N. Market St., Suite 200, with a ribbon cutting at 3:15 p.m. Dec. 17. The Aellen family is excited to celebrate their newest venture of crafting small-lot wines. Learn more at simpletheorywines.com.

Photo by Charles Pham

Heavenly Wings brings Atlanta-style wings to Frederick

When he was in high school, Heavenly Wings owner Kevin Counts said he would eat the same thing on the way home from school in Georgia at least three days a week.

“Usually four. Probably five,” he said.

Counts would always order 12 chicken wings, medium heat, with extra fries and both ranch and bleu cheese on the side. The Atlanta-style hot wings were a huge part of his childhood, he said.

“When I was younger, maybe 14 to 18 years old, I was infatuated with buffalo wings,” he said.

Counts was ordained as a pastor in 2006 and also attended an 18-month culinary school program in Atlanta between 2007 and 2008.

“My mother and father were both chefs,” he said. “I kinda picked it up. I enjoy cooking.”

Counts was then commissioned to come to the D.C. area in 2011 for work. He said the area is full of different foods, but he began to miss the buffalo wings from back home. He tried for months to find a restaurant that satisfied his craving for the childhood meal. Counts said he often complained about the lack of good wings in the area to his wife, Jasmyn Counts, who then told him to make his own.

Counts said he got dressed and went to Walmart the same night. He said he bought all of the ingredients and spent the entire night experimenting with sauces, trying to find the perfect wing.

“Finally, I made one that was like, ‘Oh, this is the one. This is it right here,’” Counts said. “At probably 5:30 in the morning, the sun’s coming up, everybody’s in bed, I’m sitting at the table with a face full of sauce just loving it. It was the best thing.”

As a pastor, Counts would make his chicken wings for special events, and after one of them, he received a list about 30 people requesting his buffalo wings.

He opened his first Heavenly Wings location in September 2014 in Silver Spring.

Counts said that during the

COVID pandemic, the business was thriving, so he opened the Frederick location, which is the eighth Heavenly Wings restaurant in Maryland.

“We’re grinding it out here, and we’re enjoying it,” Counts said. “I love Frederick. They love food, so I’m in a good city.”

Heavenly Wings also offers vegan wings made with a meat substitute, and those wings are fried in a separate fryer.

“You know those days when you’re hungry, but you just don’t know what to eat?” Counts asked. “Try them then, and they will be your new goto.”

He credits Darren Sheffield of Midar Beauty Bar for taking Counts under his wing and teaching him the ropes of owning a business and marketing in Frederick.

“Once they come to you, they’ll stay with you,” Counts said about Heavenly Wings customers. “We see the same people over and over again, two or three times a week.”

His family is another integral part of keeping the business thriving. His three sons

HEAVENLY WINGS

106 S. Market St., Frederick 301-668-0800 frederick.heavenlywingsdc.com Facebook: facebook.com/heavenlywingsdc Hours: 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Wednesday. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. Price: Online prices for chicken wings start at $12.95 for six wings and fries.

Jeremiah,

and Noah Counts — will or have already become franchise owners of different locations (Heavenly Wings has eight locations: Frederick, Germantown, Silver Spring, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Annapolis, Columbia and Pasadena).

For his “signature dish,”

Counts chose his childhood favorite: 12 medium-hot buffalo wings with bleu cheese on the side.

He believes Heavenly Wings is so popular is because “we just don’t make them like they make them here. They really know how to make wings in Atlanta.”

— Esther Frances

—

Zechariah

The 12-piece medium sauce wings at Heavenly Wings in Frederick.

Staff photos by Ric Dugan

Kevin Counts and his wife, Jasmyn, owners of Heavenly Wings in downtown Frederick.

Holiday trips down memory lane

Commemorating travels through Christmas ornaments

BY KARI A. MARTINDALE Special to The News-Post

Every December, we take a family trip without leaving the living room, as we decorate the tree with souvenirs from family adventures. Recent trips are fresh in our minds, but older ornaments help jog the memories of decades-old adventures.

“Remember Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty?” I’ll exclaim, giddily recalling the massive piles of food at the lumberjack meal.

The first ornament my husband and I bought together was a snowman made from a corncob, from the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota. It’s a happy reminder of the first cross-country trip we took together in 2002, while engaged to be married, and all the unplanned stops along the route.

I’m fond of ornaments made from appropriate materials, from the snowman corn cob to a snowflake made of salt from Utah’s Great Salt Lake, but we also pick up traditional Christmas bulbs. A bright red one featuring Elvis reminds me of the time my husband dipped down into Tennessee on a route from Wyoming to Maryland so I could visit Graceland. A bulb featuring a painting of the Giant’s Causeway, a nature preserve in Northern Ireland, evokes in my daughter, Sequoia, the memories of watching the tide roll in as she climbed up the rock formations at dusk.

When I hold my large, glass, baked-potato ornament, I can hear the Potato Family Song, sung to the tune of the Mexican Hat Dance at the Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot, Idaho. A glass dinosaur ornament reminds me of a different sound: peak adolescent angst from the day Sequoia didn’t want to be dragged to Dinosaur Land and coerced into photographing me being held up in the air by King Kong or cowering in the jaws of a shark.

During a winter trip to Copenhagen, I was tickled to find a set of ornaments based on Hans Christian Andersen’s story of a tin soldier who falls in love with a paper ballerina. I’d just ridden a charming ride through animatronic scenes based on the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen while visiting Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, located in downtown Copenhagen. This ornament set was the perfect way to commemorate that trip.

At the end of Germany’s fairy tale route, the Maerchenstrasse, we visited

to get two more Christmases with him.

Hameln, the home of the Pied Piper. After visiting the town’s glass-blowing museum, we blew our own glass bulbs. That roadtrip, filled with many memories, brought on quite a few ornaments. While visiting Christmas markets that season, I chose ornaments depicting fairy tales from towns we’d visited. I’m particularly fond of the Puss in Boots ornament because it reminds me that in the town of Oedelsheim, 5-year-old Sequoia refused to get out of the car because the statue did not, in her expert opinion, resemble the real Puss. She reluctantly joined me, stared up at the wooden carving of Puss, and scowled, “THAT looks like a CHIPMUNK.”

A fun, dangling Zeppelin harkens back to a 2014 visit to the Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen, Germany, where Sequoia slid down a metal sliding board

extending from a playground blimp during a week of biking from hotel to hotel around the Bodensee. Wooden ornaments shaped like gingerbread cookies are decorated in the lace-like manner that gingerbread is intricately decorated in a shop in the Czech city of Cesky Krumlov. Looking at the ornaments, I can still smell the gingerbread wafting across the charming street where the shop, Cesky Pernik, was located.

Not all memories are happy. Some are poignant reminders of loved ones. In 2019, I had an ornament personalized for the RV trip we took down to South Carolina one Christmas morning soon after my stepfather was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. When I look at the three smiling snowmen on the ornament, representing my husband, my daughter and myself, I think of how fortunate we were

Last year, when we were in Florida rallying around my grandfather as he lay on his deathbed, we frequented the grocery store Publix, so I picked up a glass ornament of a Publix shopping cart. Even though it makes me sad to think of those days, I chuckle at the bright green shopping cart hanging right smack in the middle of the tree.

Occasionally, I make photo ornaments. I most enjoy snickering at the ornament I made for 2022, known as The Year We Were Always Stranded. On the front is a photo of me, my husband and my daughter in a hotel room in Bilbao, Spain, after learning that our flight had been canceled and it would take us an extra two days to get back to the States. On the back are pictures of Sequoia in Lisbon the next day; reuniting with my

(See ORNAMENTS 17)

A glass potato ornament reminds Kari Martindale of the Idaho Potato Museum’s singing potato family.

Photos by Kari Martindale

Ornaments collected from all over Europe.

Ornaments from Bavaria.

MUSIC

’Tis the season for holiday albums, from Jennifer Hudson to Toby Keith

BY MARIA SHERMAN AP Music Writer

It’s not the holiday season until the house is full of festive music, from classics to covers and reimaginations across genres, for all to enjoy.

In honor of the most wonderful time of the year, here are some of the best new holiday releases for the 2024 season.

Vince Gill and Amy Grant, “When I Think of Christmas”

When it comes to country music Christmas classics, Vince Gill and Amy Grant immediately come to mind. The couple is no stranger to the world of holiday music, and their latest collection, “When I Think of Christmas,” channels the spirit of their popular “Christmas at the Ryman” residency in Nashville, with two new recordings: a duet of “’Til the Season Comes Round Again” and Grant’s take on the title track.

The Carpenters, “Christmas Once More”

Don’t fix what ain’t broke is an expression for a reason: Sometimes the best holiday album listening experience is enjoying the classics, but newly remixed and remastered. Enter the 16-track “Christmas Once More” from the Carpenters. Fall in love with “Sleigh Ride” and “(There’s No Place Like) Home For The Holidays” all over again.

Jennifer Hudson, “The Gift of Love”

Jennifer Hudson has done a ton in her career — including winning an

Mercury Nashville/UMG via AP

This album cover image released by Mercury Nashville/UMG shows “Christmas to Christmas,” a reissue by Toby Keith.

This album cover image released by Republic

shows “Holiday

Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony, making her the rare performer to EGOT, as the expression goes — but a holiday album? That’s new territory. “The Gift of Love” is her first, full of big-hearted classics like “O Holy Night,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Auld Lang Syne” and “Carol of the Bells,” which features the a cappella-meetsZulu music South African group The Joy. The album also contains some inventive originals. In that category:

“Almost Christmas” with Common. If there is only one album to grab this holiday season, you’d be wise to make it this one.

Little Big Town, “The Christmas Record”

Another big name in contemporary music has released their first holiday album. Little Big Town’s “The Christmas Record,” produced by the legendary Dave Cobb, is a country music spectacular. Like Hudson’s, this one is a collection of familiar tunes along with originals — like the opener “Glow,” and the cheery vocal harmony of its chorus: “That shine, that shimmer deep inside of you / Find that magic, let the light in you show / Let it go / Let it glow.”

Toby Keith, “Christmas to Christmas”

In February, country superstar Toby Keith, a hit crafter of pro-American anthems who riled up critics and was loved by millions of fans, died at 62. In the time since, he’s been eulogized and celebrated, and that continues with a newly remastered reissue of his 1995 holiday classic, “Christmas to Christmas.”

Clay Aiken, “Christmas Bells Are Ringing”

Clay Aiken — you read that name correctly, the onetime “American Idol” runner-up and politician — has returned with his first studio album in over

Capitol Records Nashville via AP

This album cover image released by Capitol Records Nashville shows “The Christmas Record” by Little Big Town.

Interscope Records via AP

This album cover image released by Interscope Records shows “The Gift of Love” by Jennifer Hudson.

MCA Nashville via AP

This album cover image released by MCA Nashville shows “When I Think of Christmas” by Amy Grant and Vince Gill.

Alvins Records via AP

This album cover image released by Alvins Records shows “Christmas Bells Are Ringing” by Clay Aiken.

A&M/UMG Recordings via AP

Thia album cover image released by A&M/UMG Recordings shows “Christmas Once More” by The Carpenters.

Republic Records via AP

Records

Seasoning” by Jimmy Fallon.

This cover image released by Vera Y Records shows “A Philly Special Christmas Party” by The Philly Specials.

a decade, “Christmas Bells Are Ringing.” His voice sounds as sweet and theatrical as ever — a natural partner to holiday classics.

Jimmy Fallon, “Holiday Seasoning”

At the intersection of Christmas and comedy albums comes Jimmy Fallon’s “Holiday Seasoning.” The “Tonight Show” host gets into the spirit of the season with jokes — and some A-list guests — included. Check out “Almost Too Early for Christmas”

lost for reasons we can’t quite recall / Maybe this Christmas.” It’s moving.

Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, “Ella & Louis Wish You a Swinging Holiday”

Let’s be honest here. Around Christmas, everyone wants to hear Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Why not hear them together? “Ella & Louis Wish You a Swinging Holiday” is a new boxset, two jazz classics meeting in perfect harmony: “Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas” and “Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule.” Ben Folds, “Sleigher”

with Dolly Parton, “Hallmark Movie” with Cara Delevingne, and “New Year’s Eve Polka (5-4-3-2-1)” featuring the Roots and Weird Al. It’s exactly what it sounds like.

The Philly Specials, “A Philly Special Christmas Party”

For a third year in a row, the Philly Specials — former Philadelphia Eagle Jason Kelce and current Eagles Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata — have released a holiday album for charity. “A Philly Special Christmas Party” benefits a few organizations,

including the Children’s Crisis Treatment Center and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. If getting NFL stars to sing sounds funny, well, that’s kind of the point. The fun and absurdity are this album’s superpowers: On the Americana “Maybe This Christmas,” Kelce (brother to Travis Kelce) and Stevie Nicks duet, singing, “And maybe forgiveness will ask us to call / Someone we love / Someone we’ve

Ben Folds might not be an obvious pick for holiday music — “Sleigher” is his first Christmas album, after all — but it’s a match made in heaven. His indie piano pop has charmed horn-rimmed glasses wearers for many years; his delicate compositions hit like falling snow. There are seven originals here and three covers.

The Temptations, “Give Love at Christmas”

The holidays, like every day, are a time for listening to Motown Records’ vocal groups. This year, tuck into a new reissue of the Temptations’ 1980 album, “Give Love at Christmas.” It’s for fans of five-part harmonies and soulful renditions of classics.

Y Records via AP

Verve via AP

This cover image released by Verve shows “Ella & Louis Wish You a Swinging Holiday.”

Motown via AP

This album cover image released by Motown Records shows “Give Love At Christmas” by The Temptations.

Double the fun

UK meets Frederick with two-level buses

BY CRYSTAL SCHELLE

Special to The News-Post

When UK transplant Dan Purcell discovered two London double-decker buses were in a Chicago scrapyard, it was as if his dreams had been manifested.

Sure, over the years, the paint had slowly faded and chipped away, and they needed a lot of TLC to restore them to their former glory, but that was a job Purcell was happy to do. He ultimately nurtured those buses back to life, got them back on the road, and launched one of Frederick’s newest tourism attractions.

Maryland Double-Deckers, offers a chance to ride on a two-level bus, tour the city, and be educated by a tour guide about Frederick highlights.

All of the tours start and begin at Frederick Social in downtown Frederick.

Purcell was living in Cleveland in July 2021, when he made a list of 10 of his dreams. The one he deemed most beneficial was a touring bus company.

“That’s when I started trying to write a business plan and start moving that needle forward and seeing what that looked like,” he said.

Originally, the plan included starting the business in Cleveland, which had enough tourist highlights like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to keep riders entertained. But, he said, the market was already crowded with bus companies, which made it difficult to leverage financial backing. Then, he said, a friend of a friend introduced him to someone in Frederick who suggested he visit the city.

“And I just loved it,” Purcell said. “I love the city.”

Before Purcell found the buses, they had a long history. He said the London buses are called Route Masters, of which 2,700 were built. Through the buses’ VIN numbers, he found out they were removed from service in 2004. After that, they were sold to a second-hand dealership, where some Americans purchased them, shipped them to Boston, and converted them so they would have an open-top. They were in service in Boston until 2008, when they were sent to Chicago and used for advertising pieces until 2012.

The buses hadn’t been in service for 15 years when Purcell found them. He had them towed to his driveway in Cleveland. Then, he rolled up his

sleeves and literally got his hands dirty. Purcell is a mechanic with seven years of experience on semi-trucks.

He got the buses running and drove the first one from Ohio to Maryland — at a maximum speed of 42 miles per hour.

“The final move there was during a big storm, and that was something I’m never going to forget,” he recalled.

But he had to repeat the process with the second bus.

Purcell said Frederick has been a

great fit for Maryland Double Deckers including his group of investors and the team he’s assembled to run Maryland Double Deckers.

“They’re wonderful people,” he said. “I couldn’t have gotten luckier.”

Chris Pratt is one of the owners, investors and managing partners. He owns multiple businesses but has spent most of his career with Triple Crown Construction, which does renovation and construction projects primarily in

hospitality spaces in hotels throughout the country.

He said the reason he wanted to invest was simple: “It was the coolness, the fun factor, the uniqueness of this opportunity — very different from what I do on a day-to-day basis.”

He said not just the riders but the team makes the job fun.

“It’s all about the people. We have an amazing team of people,” he said, “and everybody gets excited about this bus and being out and about, whether they’re people who are riding the bus or they’re out on the streets [seeing it drive past],” he said. “Every time that we are on this bus and we are driving through town, people turn and they look and they’re taking pictures of it. And it’s so unique and so different for the local community that it’s just exciting. We see so many people walk away from their interaction with us with smiles on their faces and saying how much they had. That’s what makes it worth it.”

For information on upcoming Maryland Double Deckers tours, go to marylanddoubledeckers.com.

After settling in Frederick, Double Deckers officially launched in the spring of 2024 with both buses in operation. They now offer a variety of tours: Brews with a View, which stops at Frederick breweries; Adventures on the Double, offered in the summer and family-friendly; and History on the Double, which features historical sites. Currently, they are selling out Merry & Bright, which takes riders on a holiday light tour. In addition, the company specializes in private events, like bachelorette and birthday parties.

This month, those who board one of the buses will likely meet Purcell, as he also shares the title of bus operator and is usually behind the wheel of one of the buses.

One of the things Maryland Double Deckers boasts about is that not only do they have out-of-the-box tours, but the tours are also led by “clippies,” the British term for tour guides.

Amanda Portner is a senior clippie. She got involved after her best friend and husband posted a photo on social media of themselves in front of a

Siblings Everett Bryden, 8, left, and Poppy Bryden, 5, sit on a Maryland Double Deckers bus.

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

Maryland Double Deckers bus in Frederick on Nov. 29.

The Frederick Mom’s recommendations for the weekend of Dec. 13

Activities to do with the kids this weekend, courtesy of The Frederick Mom. Cookies with Santa 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 13

TooZ Family Christmas House, 515 Isaac Russell St., New Market

Free

A local family in New Market is spreading Christmas spirit to the community with their adorable, free, interactive Christmas display. Kids of all ages can crank out a candy cane, call the Holiday Hotline, and test their Christmas spirit with a homemade crank that lights up! This Friday evening, join the TooZ Family Christmas House for their annual event Cookies with Santa. This outdoor event will include the jolly man himself, as well as a table full of cookies to enjoy, and even an art table for the kiddos to make some crafts. This is a free event, but the family kindly asks the public to bring non-perishable food items for the local food bank. If you’re unable to make the Cookies with Santa event, the TooZ Family Christmas house is on display daily through Dec. 25 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. while the food dropoff and letters to Santa mailbox are reachable 24/7.

Kris Kringle Procession

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 13

Downtown Frederick and Baker Park Bandshell

Free

Join all of Frederick for the annual Kris Kringle Procession this Friday evening! The parade begins at the corner of South Carroll and East Patrick streets in Frederick right onto North Market Street, then turns left onto West Second Street and ends in Baker Park with the lighting of the City Tree. Wave

Celebrate Grinchmas at Idiom Brewing.

to all your favorite local organizations, youth clubs and musical groups dressed as festive characters, including Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and German heritage characters like Belsnickel and Weinacht Man, who helped Kris Kringle decide if kids have been naughty or nice. Follow the parade to the Baker Park Bandshell for a closing ceremony featuring carolers, the lighting of the City Christmas tree, and joyful messages from beloved characters including the Snow Queen and Kris Kringle himself! The Original Popcorn

House will be onsite selling fun flavors of popcorn from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Visit celebratefrederick.com for a map and more info.

Merry Christmas Celebration

5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 14

Pediatric Movement Center, 4640 Wedgewood Blvd., Suite 103, Frederick

$12 per person

Pediatric Movement Center is one of Frederick’s most beloved youth recreational gymnastics and therapy

A local family in New Market spreads Christmas spirit to the community with their free, interactive Christmas display.

centers. Check them out this Saturday for a special festive event — the Merry Christmas Celebration! Kids are welcome to play, make seasonal crafts, play games, and enjoy delicious hot cocoa and cookies. Santa Claus will be there for photos with the family. This event is open to the public. Advanced registration required at hisawyer.com.

Museums by Candlelight

Noon to 7 p.m. Dec. 14

Utica District Park & Rose Hill Manor Park

Free

This free holiday program is one for all ages. Museums by Candlelight takes places Saturday at two locations: Utica District Park at the Snook Family Farm and Agricultural Center, 10200-B Old Frederick Road, Frederick, and Rose

(See MOM 22)

TIFFANY MAHANEY

Chris Sands

Tiffany Mahaney

All aboard the ‘Winter Express’ train in Walkersville: Santa Claus is coming to town

BY MARTI MOORE

Special to The News-Post

Visitors of the Walkersville Southern Railroad can celebrate the winter holidays the following two weekends through Dec. 22 aboard scenic excursions with Santa Claus and special storybook guests.

The season started Black Friday with Christmas-themed Santa trains that rolled with sold-out excursions Nov. 29 to Dec. 1.

An upcoming event Saturday and Sunday features Santa’s special guests — the Ice Queen and Ice Princess — Dec. 14 and 15. During this “Winter Express” weekend, professional performers from Sew Classy Royal Events of Wilmington, Delaware, will delight passengers with entertainment, so enchanting as if a storybook opens and the characters come alive. Children are encouraged to wear costumes.

According to the Walkersville Southern Railroad museum volunteer director, Paul Kovalcik, actors in costume will sing and dance on the freight platform as passengers board three trains that depart at 11 a.m., 1:30 and 4 p.m. Festivities continue in restored vintage cars — complete with heaters and holiday background music — along a scenic route over the Monocacy River.

The “Holiday Spectacular” offers another Sew Classy theme perfect for a vintage railroad like WSRR on Dec. 21 and 22. Visitors will hear a reading of the beloved 19th-century poem by Clement Clarke Moore, “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” best known for its opening line “’Twas the night before Christmas.”

A ginormous American flag at the top of a former grain silo welcomes visitors to the small town of Walkersville. Free parking is to the right of the stop sign at 34 W. Pennsylvania Ave. and the train station’s original ticket office, built more than 100 years ago.

A large brick building across the street was an ice factory in 1910. Today it houses the train museum, which provides an interesting history of the Walkersville community and the Glade Valley Milling Company. One of the exhibits tells how the railroad helped these local businesses prosper.

According to Kovalcik, the train tracks were laid by the Pennsylvania Railroad in the late 1800s as a connection between Columbia, Penn -

Santa arrives at the Walkersville Southern Railroad station Nov. 30 after greeting tourists riding in five separate passenger cars during their scenic excursion over the Monocacy River and through the woods in frigid weather.

sylvania, and Frederick. He also mentioned the rail line made a connection to the B&O Railroad in Frederick with Baltimore as a destination.

Kovalcik said the commercial use of the Walkersville line ended in 1972, when Hurricane Agnes “washed out the Monocacy Bridge and severed the line to Frederick” as

ers have rescued derelict locomotives, cabooses, coaches and flatcars from scrap heaps to carefully restore these tokens of American history to their former glory.

Wayne Kirchhoff, WSSR president, stated they train about 80 volunteers a year. He credits the machinists, mechanics, track workers, operating crew, museum curators and other history buffs for their dedication to “make this place go,” he said.

Kirchhoff says ticket sales help fund the entire operation. Their WSRR bucket list includes replacing portable toilets onsite with public bathrooms and running water to better serve customers. Donations to this delicate cause are welcome.

The museum at the Walkersville Southern Railroad is a separate 501©(3) nonprofit organization since 2017. It works in partnership with the tourist railroad to accept financial support for the museum and other WSRR projects.

Families stepping from warm railcars into 30-degree weather on a cold Saturday evening appeared happy as they quickly remarked their trip was “very nice” and exclaimed “we loved it” on their way to the parking lot. Their children gave hugs to Santa Claus as he bid his guests farewell on the freight platform.

Walkersville Southern Railroad volunteer Joshua Meise, of Manchester, loves this annual event. He started volunteering for WSRR at age 9 in 1999 by tagging along with his dad. Since 2020, he has walked along the passenger cars and cabooses, personally appreciating the joy Santa brings “to every single child” and sometimes the adults.

It’s no easy task in a typical onehour and 10-minute trip. Santa knows exactly when to ask the conductor to slow the train enough to extend the trip a few minutes longer.

the Monocacy River flooded past its banks.

He said the track sat abandoned for about 19 years until the Walkersville Southern Railroad was founded in 1991. Since then, volunteers have invested much sweat equity into clearing and rebuilding the track. Furthermore, these hard work-

Meise points out each coach holds between 50 and 70 people. The parlor car carries 25 passengers. Another car used only for special events plays host to 20 individuals in a restored 1930 Pullman observation lounge and sleeper car called the Meadow Lark. The maximum capacity for the one caboose is 15 and the other is 20 guests. Imagine spending precious moments with as many as 150 guests at a Christmas party in less than 90 minutes.

Time waits for Santa and his friends as the locomotive slows down to help him greet everyone be -

Photos by Marti Moore

fore the train returns to the station. It warms Meise’s heart the moment he opens the passenger door of each car, and everyone cheers for Santa.

For the past four years, Michaela Crampton of Falling Waters, West Virginia, has rented an entire caboose for her family during the Thanksgiving weekend Santa Train. According to wsrr.org, customers can charter a private caboose that holds up to 15 riders for $450 or a slightly larger one that carries 20 riders for $550.

For Crampton, it’s a better deal than buying presents for the whole family. Instead of giving stuff Mom has to clean up, “We’re trying to do gifts of experience,” she said. Crampton claims she is the mother of 19 children, and grandmother of 23.

With two more babies on the way.

The Crampton family illustrates how the WSRR Santa Train is a much better holiday gift deal with far less hassle. The experience and memory of seeing Christmas wonder and holiday joy in the eyes of a child: priceless!

Reservations for the Winter Express and Holiday Spectacular festivities are required. Call the Walkersville Southern Railroad at 301-898-0899 or book excursions online at wsrr.org. Visitors can buy food and beverages from two vendors onsite: J&G Catering and Whistle Stop Coffee. People can dine at tables in a newly restored rail car built in the 1930s. It also served in World War II by transporting soldiers as a troop sleeper car.

Visitors can explore another exhibit adjacent to the museum, where the Frederick County Society of Model Engineers features a 56foot HO scale model train layout inside a restored 70-foot Chesapeake and Ohio horse car.

Although the Walkersville Southern Railroad is closed to the public Dec. 23 to May 2025, Kovalcik assures it’s a very busy time for volunteers, who receive annual safety training, conduct repairs and make improvements.

“We have massive projects that go on all winter long,” Kovalcik said, noting that special theme trains run a couple of weekends around Valentine’s Day and before Easter Sunday.

Marti Moore is a freelance writer who previewed local entertainment in a “weekend’s best events” column on the Friday front page of the former Montgomery Journal daily newspaper. Reach her at marti. writes.moore.news@gmail.com.

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the Bath Christmas Market

The most enchanting time of the year is here. The Bath Christmas Market in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, will host its inaugural Victorian village, bringing the community together for a celebration of holiday cheer from Dec. 12 to 15.

From twinkling lights to delicious food and hot drinks, music, an ice rink and unique gifts, the festival promises to deliver the magic of Christmas on every corner.

The festival will be held along Fairfax Street in the historic town from noon to 9 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

The Bath Christmas Market features a starlit holiday Victorian village, where you can shop local vendors for handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats and festive decorations.

Meet Santa, and enjoy carolers, dance groups, musicians, a town scavenger hunt, snowball battles

Admission is free, however, two ticketed events are available: Santa and Buddy the Elf’s breakfast and the VIP Winter White Celebration.

A winter wonderland awaits.

Courtesy photo

Visitors can buy food and beverages from two vendors during the “Winter Express” and “Holiday Spectacular” events this month at the Walkersville Southern Railroad. People can dine at tables in a newly restored rail car built in the 1930s. It served in World War II by transporting soldiers as a troop sleeper car.

Engine 1 is Walkersville Southern Railroad’s first locomotive. Parked at the museum across the street from the ticket office, Engine 1 is a little Buda gasoline industrial switch that started pulling tourists on a single flatcar with benches Aug. 26, 1995, following its restoration.

HCC Student Art Exhibit — through Dec. 13, Hagerstown Community College, Kepler Center, Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown. Features artwork from students enrolled in the visual arts studio courses this fall, including drawing, painting, photography, digital art and ceramics. Exhibit hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 240-500-2221 or hagerstowncc.edu.

Chris Mona: Recent Solo Projects & Collaborative Projects — through Dec. 13 at Esther Prangley Rice Gallery, located in Peterson Hall at McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. This solo exhibition features works by Anne Arundel Community College professor Chris Mona, including printmaking projects done in collaboration with Pyramid Atlantic Art Center founder Helen Frederick, who he began collaborating with in 2023. OCMwork@mcdaniel. edu, 410-857-7000, chrismona.com.

”Brushes With History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick” — through Dec. 14, Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County, past and present. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 301-6631188 or frederickhistory.org.

Most Popular Art From the 2024 Wine and Art Series — through Dec. 15, Links Bridge Vineyards, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. Over the year, guests voted on their favorite pieces during each of the 12 exhibits. For a grand finale we have invited each of the 31 contributing artists to bring back their most popular work: photography, oil, acylic, mixed media. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends or by appointment. 301-466-2413, linksbridgevineyards.com.

”Impressions of Frederick: Reimagining Perception” — through Dec. 29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Ron Ames approach to photography attempts to use the camera like a brush to reimagine perception, to alter, not only what he sees, but how he sees it. Using long exposure techniques and intentional camera movement, Ames creates abstracted images of the world around him. Gallery hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Waterworks” — through Dec.

“Shapes and Stories,” a new exhibition by Gettysburg artist Jill Rakowicz, is on display daily in the art gallery at Gettysburg College’s Majestic Theater. This solo show is open to the public through Jan. 29. Listing well-known artists as well as kindergarteners among her artistic inspirations, Rakowicz’s canvases layer scraps from discarded student sketchbooks with shapes and symbols of her own devising to create a body of work that embraces the playfulness of youth yet is artistically mature. Shown here, “Sketchbook Series 4,” by Jill Rakowicz.

29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Combining photography, wood, and ceramics, the work in this exhibition, by Linda Agar-Hendrix, explores water as a theme and hopes to express its varying aspects through the variety of techniques and materials. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”/bodycrumbs” — through Dec. 29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Photography and mixed media. As a way to combat anxiety and chronic pain, Ally Christmas’s work focuses on repetition in production, simulating ritual. Her work vacillates between more traditional forms of photography and alternative and mixed-media methods including cyanotype printing and handembroidered images. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”ReMEMBERS”: NOMA Alumni

Invitational Exhibit — through Dec. 29, NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St., Frederick. This eclectic group of artists will be showing work including jewelry, painting, ceramics, fabric art, printmaking and more. To view the list of participating artists, visit nomagallery/ frederick.com. Gallery hours are noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. 240-367-9770.

Dowell Farm Paintings — through Dec. 29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Margaret Dowell collapses time and space in this series of paintings, using the tobacco fields of her family’s Southern Maryland farm as a way to think about the correlations between an artist’s labor in the studio and the labor of her ancestry. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Inspired by ...” — through Dec. 29, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This exhibition features a wide range of quilting imagery, color and techniques. Clustered Spires Quilt Guild members were asked to make work that is a reflection on personal inspiration and to include imagery and words based on where that inspiration motivates their creative work. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-6980656 or delaplaine.org.

Baltimore Watercolor Society’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Exhibition — through Jan. 5 at Gaithersburg Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg. The annual regional juried exhibition featuring the work of more than 90 of the best watercolor artists. A variety of educational opportunities will be available during the exhibit. See gaithersburgmd. gov for details. gaithersburgmd.gov/ recreation/visual-arts.

”Floating Beauty: Women and the Art of Ukiyo-e” — through Jan. 12, 2025, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. This exhibition examines historical perspectives on women and their depiction in art from Edo Period Japan (1615 – 1858). Organized and drawn from the collection of the Reading (Pa.) Public Museum, this exhibition features over 50 woodblock prints, including works by ukiyo-e masters. Hours are 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. Free admission. 301-739-5727 or wcmfa.org.

”Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile” — through Jan. 12, 2025, Gallery B, 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda. The exhibition aims to foster a visual conversation that highlights the interplay between tearing, collaging and the rhythmic motion of needle and thread. Works by Kate Norris and Jennifer McBrien. Opening reception 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 13. Noon to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

”Sunflowers & Snow” — through February 2025, Garryowen Irish Pub, 126 Chambersburg St., Gettysburg, Pa. Paintings and prints by Dorothea Barrick. Daily 11 a.m. to midnight. 240674-9488 or 717-337-2719.

15th Annual Community Art Show: The Best of Local Art — Dec. 12 through Jan. 7, 2025, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Opening reception 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 12, Virtually Dec. 14. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. 301791-3132 or washingtoncountyarts. com.

Jennifer Hudson: Solo 2025 and Bonnie Zuckerman: Forest of Dreams Exhibits — Jan. 9 through Feb. 4, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Suite 100, Hagerstown. Opening reception 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 9; virtual exhibit available Jan. 11. Hours 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays. 301-791-3132 or washingtoncountyarts.com.

15th Annual Washington County Art Educators Exhibit — Feb. 6 through March 4, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Suite 100, Hagerstown. Opening reception 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 6. Virtual exhibit online Feb. 8. Gallery hours 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. 301-791-3132 or washingtoncountyarts.com.

Courtesy photo

BAM’s Makers Market will bring artists, musicians, craftspeople to Brunswick

BY CRYSTAL SCHELLE

Special to The News-Post

Some Brunswick residents want people to know that the small city offers more than train history and outdoor activities. It is becoming home to a growing arts community.

The newly formed Brunswick Arts Council is offering a day of shopping and music to celebrate artists and musicians from in and around Brunswick. The BAM (Brunswick Arts Market) Makers Market will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 14 at the recently renovated Smoketown Brewing Station in Brunswick.

Highlights from the market include live music by singer-songwriters Emily Guilde and Bryan Williams, a gallery wall filled with work by local artists, craft tables for kids, silent auction baskets, samples from local artisans and more than 20 artisan vendors. Also, Tara Roberts Zabriskie’s documentary “Defending The Dark” will be shown, and members from bluegrass group The Plate Scrapers will perform an after-market concert. Admission is free.

Zabriskie, a documentarian, is the founding president of the Brunswick Arts Council. The group had its first organizational meeting in October. She said they thought the community needed an arts council.

“There’s a lot of artists here, and this was just a way to create a space for artists to come together and share experiences and promote the artists in the community,” she said.

The group wanted to host an event for the holiday season. Zabriskie said the art market is “one way to start to connect the artists with the community, because I think there was a little bit of a disconnect there, where the artists were here, but sometimes the reaching out to the community is not there.”

The idea is to host the markets twice a year, once in winter and again in the spring.

BAM’s Makers Market coordinator David Snyder said with the regional artisans and musicians selected for the inaugural event, he thinks it will be a “pretty well-rounded community event.”

The group was able to snag the newly renovated space above Smoketown, “so it’s gonna be like a fresh release for that space as well,” Snyder said.

The day-long event promises to be a laid-back and stress-free, where you can “come and shop and buy things and have a beer or food,” Snyder said.

Two artisans at the event are mother and daughter glass artists Barbra Quinn and Rachel Wilson, both of Frederick.

BAM: BRUNSWICK ART MARKET

11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 14 at Smoketown Brewing Station, 223 W. Potomac St., Brunswick. After party with music by members of the Plate Scrapers from 8 to 10 p.m. Free.

ter she painted a piece of furniture for a friend who owns Whistle Punk Farm Deli in town. Once her friend saw the piece, Yeary was invited to display more items for sale.

Yeary has seen the city change over the past 18 years of her living in the area.

They will be selling their one-of-a-kind works at the event.

Quinn said she fell in love with working with glass “the moment I started playing with it, and that was 40 years ago. What I love about it is that you can do so many different things with it. You can melt it and blow it into balloon shapes. You can fuse it, slump it and stretch it. There’s not a lot of other materials that you can do that with. There’s just such a diversity of techniques — besides the fact that it’s beautiful … beautiful colors, beautiful to look through, beautiful reflections. I just love everything about it.”

Her daughter echoed her sentiments about glass.

“It’s super dynamic, and the way that it plays with light, I don’t know many or any other materials that are going to do what glass can do,” she said.

At the market, they will be focusing on small, last-minute items for shoppers. Wilson will offer glass earrings that are

kiln-fired shards of glass that are wirewrapped, as well as pendants. Quinn will bring torch-work glass ornaments.

Quinn is also working with beads to create an unusual Christmas ornament based on German folklore.

“I make these things called Christmas spiders out of the really big beads, so we’ll be selling some Christmas spiders that belong on Christmas trees,” she said.

Wilson said she and her mom are looking forward to the market.

“People are definitely going to see stuff that they probably don’t see often,” she said. “The energy that we’ve had so far putting it together has been wonderful, so if we can carry that into the event itself, I think everyone will have a really good time.”

Raya Yeary, owner of Talon Studio Tattoo in Boonsboro, will also attend the market. She won’t be tattooing but will instead show off her other artistic skills. She became involved with Brunswick af-

Yeary has a degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago where she was trained in printmaking and sculpture. But since 1996, she has worked as a tattoo artist at her Boonsboro studio. At the art market, Yeary will be showing off her work of painted furniture, as well as some two-dimensional pieces. She’ll also bring some digital prints she’s created, as well as jewelry.

“When I first started tattooing, the art background really informed how I tattooed,” she said. “My references were mostly organic from nature, animals, mystical stuff — you know, symbolism is always in tattooing. So it just goes back and forth. They inform each other.”

Zabriskie hopes the event will do more than shine a light on the artisans and musicians. For her, she said, “It’s about getting the momentum going with the excitement of bringing the arts community together.”

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

Courtesy photos

Work by Raya Yeary, who will bring her painted furniture creations and other pieces to the market in Brunswick.

Courtesy photo

Earrings made by Rachel Wilson.

Festive farms

Three businesses come alive with Christmas spirit

This holiday season, we visited three Christmas tree farms in Frederick County to show the behind-the-scenes work that goes into running these businesses — and the resulting impact on the visitors who get the experience of cutting down their own tree and bringing it home to decorate.

Our first stop was Mayne’s Tree Farm in Buckeystown Pike, where a busy Mehrl Mayne spent the weeks leading up to the season opening giving trees last-minute trims and pruning, picking up a trailer full of wreaths out of town to stack and sort in the barn, and later receiving a shipment of trees from a farm in Pennsylvania. “There’s too much business,” he explained. “I can’t grow fast enough, so I have to supplement.”

At 70 years old, Mayne said he is handing off the business to his son next year, so 2024 marks the last time he’ll be running Mayne’s himself, a business that was handed down to him from his father.

Another worker behind the magic of the season is Brian Riesett, owner of Dreamland Christmas Tree Farm in Middletown, who also supplement their own grown trees with offsite shipments.

Lastly, we visited Gaver Farm in Mount Airy, where a long, woodsy walk leads to a field of trees. There, on a recent December morning, we found the Wachter family, whose annual tradition of cutting down a Christmas tree began when mother Shannon Wachter was still a teenager. Now she brings her husband, son, and daughter along to experience the magic.

— Lauren LaRocca

PHOTO ESSAY BY KATINA ZENTZ

Zak Rutsch, left, and Max Kosch move trees on a truck at Dreamland Christmas Tree Farm in Middletown on Nov. 20.

Kenny Klipp, a year-round employee at Gaver Farm, put a tree through a tree baler at Gaver Farm in Mount Airy on Dec. 4.

Mehrl Mayne reaches to unload a shipment of trees at Mayne’s Tree Farm in Buckeystown on Nov. 20. The shipment came from Berkey’s Nursery near Erie, Pa., and included 520 trees.

Tony Wotring, left, pauses while working with Tracy Hickman to load trees onto a truck at Dreamland Christmas Tree Farm on Nov. 20.

Saws at Dreamland Christmas Tree Farm.

Dreamland Christmas Tree Farm is shown on Nov. 20. The Riesett family founded the farm in 2004.

Billy Shoemaker walks with wreaths at Mayne’s Tree Farm on Nov. 20.

David Berkey, left, Mehrl Mayne, center, and Billy Shoemaker unload a shipment of trees at Mayne’s Tree Farm on Nov. 20.

From left: The Wachter Family, Annelise, 2, Shannon, Grayson, 5, and Andrew walk together after cutting down a tree at Gaver Farm on Dec. 4. The family has been going to Gaver Farm for years.

Everyday Poetry

This has been quite a year. It seems that many nerves have been wracked from politics, weather or personal life changes, gains and losses.

I think back on the past century and keep hoping we don’t make the same mistakes. In 2008 and 2009, somehow we avoided a financial depression, and we’ve avoided one again during and after the intense phase of COVID — which was our century’s Spanish Flu pandemic but with amelioration thanks to remarkable research leading to remarkable vaccines.

Now we seem to be trying to avoid a spate of Mussolini-ism and/or McCarthy-ism.

BUSES

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double-decker bus in November 2023. Portner said she was confused, because she didn’t think her friend was going to London, but she soon learned that her friend’s brother-in-law was one of the investors in the Frederick company.

What I wish for most of all in the present and the future is for humankind to be brave enough to look at mistakes of the past and develop enough common sense and smarts to avoid their repetition.

And to be able to see and feel real gratitude for the good that does exist. That’s not hard to do for us in Frederick County. We are so lucky to be in such a beautiful, charming place filled mostly with people who are decent most of the time. We live in a blessing.

I wish you the very best for the rest of this year, and lots of love, kindness and lessons learned for the next.

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

spends her evenings and weekends giving tours.

For the 45-minute Merry & Bright tour, Portner said, “We get to float down the beautiful streets of Frederick.” The entire time, she interacts with the riders and tells them about the sites.

Portner was excited. Since she was 16, she had wanted to be a tour guide, so when the opportunity presented itself, Portner immediately got on the phone with her friend’s brother-in-law and told him this had been her dream since she was a teen and that she had to be a part of it.

The company agreed, and she has been living her dream of being a clippie. Portner, who has been an English teacher for 29 years, said she

“What I love about this bus is everyone is so excited to get on, to ride, to see everything, to talk about it, and to crack jokes back and forth with me,” she said. “That has just been the biggest, heartwarming moment of my second career here. It’s just been wonderful.”

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

SHERYL MASSARO

This Christmas, choose your own Scrooge in ‘Bah Humbug’

Michael Harris and his improvisers breathe new life into the holiday classic with a fully improvised, choose your own Scrooge version of “A Christmas Carol.”

In “Bah Humbug,” a team of Maryland improvisers will turn audience suggestions into a never seen before, never to be seen again reboot of the Dickens classic tale.

Hilarious, unpredictable and full of audience participation, “Bah Humbug” is everything you remember, and everything you

ORNAMENTS

(Continued from 5)

never knew, from the story of Scrooge.

If you love “A Christmas Carol,” if you hate “A Christmas Carol,” then “Bah Humbug” is for you.

The show will be performed in Frederick at 4 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and 4 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21 at New Spire Arts in downtown Frederick.

Tickets are $17 to $20 and are available at weinbergcenter. org, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828, or in person at the Weinberg Center at 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

husband after he’d been stranded in Medellín, Colombia, with COVID; Sequoia eating breakfast in Las Vegas when we were stranded for days because she was too sick to fly; and me stranded in Vegas another night. There was no room for a photo of when I was stranded in Frankfurt overnight after a long delay in Birmingham, England, caused me to miss a connection later that year!

Circa 2017, Target was selling a cork U.S. map ornament. I bought a handful (and then another handful and another) and every December color in the states visited each year. (Although Target no longer sells the cork map ornaments, Amazon sells a wooden “US state map

MET’s ‘A Christmas Carol’ returns to the Weinberg Center

Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s production of Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” will return to Frederick’s Weinberg Center for the Arts for one weekend only from Dec. 13 to 15.

Originally adapted by Theatricks and Julie Herber, MET’s associate artistic director, MET began producing the now annual production in 2003.

MET’s producing artistic director, Tad Janes, has appeared as Scrooge for the entirety of the 21 year MET run, and this year is no exception. Joining him onstage are memorable returning cast members Gené Fouché, Lisa Burl, James McGarvey, Jeremy Myers, Sean Byrne, Karen Heyser-Paone and Lena Janes. The production features a number of junior performers, many of whom are students or alumni of MET’s Ensemble School.

The ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, Future and Tiny Tim will transport audiences to Victorian England as the penny-pinching Ebenezer Scrooge learns the error of his miserly ways and embraces the true spirit of Christmas. Director Julie Herber looks forward to this annual tradition and greeting the audience after the show.

“Each year it feels like coming home. We have so many cast members that return year after year, it’s like having a holiday family reunion and that really comes across onstage,” she said.

Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol, An Audio Experience” will be broadcast on Christmas Eve on WLTF/ Today’s 97.5. Listeners can tunein on air at 97.5 fm, online at Todays975.

ornament, solid cherry” that includes Alaska and Hawaii.)

We have several ornaments from Sequoia National Park, my daughter’s namesake, but we’ve been forced to be more selective over the past few years because not even a Sequoia tree could hold all the ornaments we already have. Still, a small trunk decorated in ornaments sits out year-round so we can drop new ornaments into it. This year, I added from Yellowstone National Park a dated ornament featuring a bear; from Iceland, Jólaköttur, the rather unpleasant Yule cat, and Ketkrókur, the 12th Yule Lad also known as Meat Hook, who was said to use a hook to steal smoked lamb hanging from the rafters; and a beautiful glass bulb ornament painted by an artist

com, or by asking their virtual assistant to play Today’s 97.5.

Performances will be held at 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. For special needs, group sales, or other seating questions, contact the Weinberg Center box office at 301-6002828.

Tickets are priced from $17 to $28 and available at 301-600-2828, by email at weinberg@cityoffrederickmd.gov, online at weinbergcenter.org/shows/a-christmas-carol-2024, or in person at the Weinberg box office in downtown Frederick.

who was in residency in France with me in January, Laura Fox-Wallis.

Thanks to these ornaments, in the coming years, I’ll think back on witnessing bears in the Yellowstone wilderness, the strange yuletide characters I came across in Iceland, and the beautiful sunrises outside the window of my atelier in Orquevaux, France.

Kari Martindale is a Pushcart Prize-nominated poet and spoken word artist who has been published in various literary journals and anthologies, and she has been featured in readings across Maryland. She has an MA in linguistics, sits on the board of Maryland Writers’ Association and is a member of EC Poetry & Prose.

Courtesy photo

Old Scrooge sees the Emily meet cute in “Bah Humbug.”

Staff file photo by Katina Zentz Lena Janes, center, poses for a portrait with her parents, Tad Janes, left, and Gené Fouché during a break in their rehearsal at the Maryland Ensemble Theatre for “A Christmas Carol” in 2022.

Kari Martindale

The first travel souvenir Christmas ornament Kari Martindale and her husband collected, from the Corn Palace.

Thursday Dec. 12

CLASSES

Senior Cafe: The place to come for coffee, conversation, friendship and fun events! Learn Calligraphy — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Learn a new skill of writing and learn how to do calligraphy! 21 and older.

301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

Physical Therapy Education: Back Pain Management — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Middletown Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Back pain is a common issue that often stems from the physical demands of work and life in general. This program led by Dr. Matt Larson, an experienced physical therapist and Army veteran, is designed to help people understand, prevent and manage back pain effectively.

301-600-7560.

frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Teen Time: Beeswax Candles — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Use sheets of beeswax to make your own candle!This program is for teens in 6th through 12th grades (ages 11-18).

301-600-7250.

frederick.librarycalendar.com.

ETCETERA

Dinner Dance Hosted by Brunswick Senior Center — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Brunswick Eagles Club, 401 Central Ave., Brunswick. Join us at the Brunswick Eagles Club for a fun afternoon of dancing and dinner! Dancing at 2 p.m., dinner served at 4 p.m. Paid reservations due one week in advance, $12. $12. 301-834-8115. virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov. frederickcountymd.gov.

All Grown Up Night — 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Need to shop without little eyes watching? All Grown Up Night is back – and it’s for adults only! Our toy experts will be on hand with many recommendations and free gift wrapping. 301-631-9300. info@dbeartoys.com. dbeartoys.com/event/all-grown-up-night-2.

200 Monroe Restaurant — 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Monroe Center, 200 Monroe Ave., Frederick. Frederick Community College invites you to enjoy a gourmet dinner created by students. Guests will enjoy a first course, entree, and dessert freshly made by the baking and pastry

class. Reservations  required. $40-$46. hcti@frederick.edu. opentable.com/200-monroe.

Clustered Spires Quilt Guild Monthly Meeting — 6:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Founded in 2001, members include beginners through experts, with interests from art quilts to traditional quilts in an array of materials. All are welcome. meets the second Thursday of the month. csqg@clusteredspiresquiltguild.org. clusteredspiresquiltguild.org.

FAMILY

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

Irish Christmas in America — 7:30 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. This family-friendly performance features lively instrumental tunes on fiddle, flute, uilleann pipes, harp and bouzouki, along with thrilling Irish dancing. In addition, evocative photographic images provide a backdrop to some of the rich historical traditions of Ireland. $35. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ irish-christmas-in-america-2024.

MUSIC

FCC Jazz Ensemble I Performance — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Frederick Community College, JBK Theater, Visual and Performing Arts Center, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Under the direction of Anita Thomas, this ensemble features classic jazz tunes played by students of all ages. Jazz afficionados and novices alike will enjoy this entertaining performance. 301-846-2566. mgersten@frederick.edu. fcc2024jazzensembleone.eventbrite.com.

Friday Dec. 13

CLASSES

Fridays are for Fun and Crafting — noon to 7 p.m. at Brook Hill United Methodist Church, 8946 Indian Springs Road, Frederick. Use the time for scrapbooking, card making or whatever kind of craft you may do and enjoy. The cost is $20 to get your space, room for the day. BYO lunch or

snacks. Pre-register. 18 and older. $20 entrance fee. 301-712-6759. shelleysscrapshack@gmail.com. meetup.com/Shelleys-Scrap-Shack. Mindfulness Practice — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Library, 10 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Relief, fulfillment and selfunderstanding become radically more available when we view mindfulness practice through a broader lens of skill development. Learn how to practice mindfulness skills to improve concentration, sensory clarity & equanimity. 301-600-1630. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

ETCETERA

Coffee Hour — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Middletown Senior Center, 101 Prospect St., Middletown. A time for coffee and community. Drop-in. 301-600-5700. middletownseniorcenter@ frederickcountymd.gov. frederickcountymd.gov.

Mead & Read Trivia at Orchid Cellar Meadery & Winery — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Orchid Cellar Meadery & Winery, 8546 Pete Wiles Road, Middletown. Gather a team of up to 6 people for a fun night of trivia. Questions will be inspired by “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. The winning team will receive two free flights of mead. Team registration opens at 5:30 p.m. Trivia will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Cheese platters & snacks are available for purchase from Orchid Cellar, or you’re welcome to bring your own food. Maximum capacity: 50 attendees. Ages 21 and older. 301-600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com. Kurt ReiflerURT — New Sheriff Tour 24 - Live in Concert — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. Don’t miss out on the electrifying performance by national recording artist Kurt Reifler and his New Sheriff Tour, 2024! Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music as Kurt showcases his musical talents. “Nimble, Garage Rock Swagger” - Skope; “A Mix of Rock and Grunge-Funk” - NPR; “Unwilling to be Tied Down to One Narrow Style” - All Music Kurt plays all over the country and he is making a special stop in Frederick @ Rockwell Brewery.”A show you can’t miss”. $5. 301-372-4880. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.

FAMILY

Cookies With Santa — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at TooZ Family Christmas House, 515 Isaac Russel St., New Market. A local

family is spreading Christmas spirit to the community with their interactive Christmas display. Kids of all ages can crank out a candy cane, call the Holiday Hotline, and test your Christmas spirit with a homemade crank that lights up! This outdoor event will include the jolly man himself, as well as a table full of cookies to enjoy, and even an art table for the kids to make some crafts. Free, but please bring nonperishable food items for the local food bank. The TooZ Family Christmas house is on display daily thru Dec. 25 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. while the food drop-off and letters to Santa mailbox are reachable 24/7.

FESTIVALS

Jingle & Mingle — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Downtown Main Street, 110 S. Main St., Mount Airy. Santa Claus is making one last trip to Mount Airy. Bring your cameras and lists and see him in the B&O Caboose at 2 N. Main St. Shop downtown businesses, free carriage rides, live music, a fire pit, artisans, carolers roaming the streets and more! mountairymd.gov.

A Small Town Christmas — 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Thurmont, Thurmont. Holiday shopping, horse and carriage rides from 5 to 8 p.m. (RSVP by calling 301-271-7313, $10 per person), music, wine, craft beer, ugly sweater contest at 10Tavern at 8:30 p.m.  thurmontmainstreet.com.

Kris Kringle Procession — 6:30 p.m. at Downtown and Baker Park, Frederick. The parade begins at the corner of South Carroll and East Patrick streets in Frederick and ends in Baker Park with the lighting of the City Tree. 301-600-2849. celebratefrederick.com.

HEALTH

Chair Yoga — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at MIddletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Gentle chair yoga, suitable for all abilities. 301-600-7560. lgrackin@frederickcountymd.gov. fcpl.org/calendar.

MUSIC

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

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

Tue , Dec 24 starting at 7p in the Main 1908 Sanctuary Light refreshments and Hot Chocolate following worship in the Parish Hall

St. John's Lutheran Church 8619 Blacks Mill Rd , Creagerstown, MD Call: 301-898-5290

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN ORCHARDS

Available in our Market: Stayman, Empire, Crimson Crisp Apples, Granny Smith, Fuji Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, Jonathan & Gala Apples Seckel & Bosc Pears Kale, Cabbage, Green Bell Peppers, White & Sweet Potatoes Fresh Baked Fruit Pies, Apple Cider Donuts, Fresh Apple Cider, Jams & Jellies Apple Cider Slushies 301-271-2737

Open Daily 9am-5pm 15036 North Franklinville Rd Thurmont MD www catoctinmountain orchard com

CHRISTMAS COOKIE WALK

Sat Dec 14 • 9 a m -1 p m Carroll Manor Fire Company 2793 Adams Street Adamstown, MD

Large Assort of Holiday Cookies that YOU Select

$12 per lb or $7 per 1/2 lb

Pre-packaged assorted platters are preorder only

Large Platters (2 lb ) $26 00 Small Platters (1 lb ) $14 00 Chris 301-874-5642

Pre-order cookies online: www carrollmanorfire company.com until 12/11.

HILLSIDE

TURKEY FARMS

Turkey, Chicken, Duck, Pork, Beef, Smoked Meats, Deli Meats & Cheeses, Seafood & More Hillsideturkey.com 301-271-2728

30 Elm St

Thurmont, MD 21788

Thursday 8-7

Friday 8-3

Saturday 8-12

EMMITSBURG COMMUNITY CHORUS CHRISTMAS

CONCERT

St Johns Union Church Building Sun., Dec. 15 @ 4p

Followed by dinner in the Parish Hall featuring fried chicken, spiral ham, succotash, Harvard beets, sweet potato casserole, macaroni and cheese, cheese platter, cranberry relish, coffee, tea and baked items

St John's Lutheran Church 8619 Blacks Mill Rd , Creagerstown, MD Call: 301-898-5290

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

OVER 200 CHRISTMAS TREES (6 TO 10 FT)

Couple Hundred Wreaths, Centerpieces (Trimmed & Decorated) Lots of Garland! Open 8a-8p ’til Christmas Only at DR Virts
 800 Petersville Rd, Brunswick, Md - 301-969-6115
Come on down and see me!
Cash & Cards

SCENIC VIEW ORCHARDS

Open Dec 13-15th 10:00-5:00 10 Varieties of Apples, Pears, Apple Cider Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes

Fall Squash, Brussels, Carrots Onions, Kale, Kalettes, Honey , Jams & Jellies

Scenic View Orchards 16239 Sabillasville Rd Sabillasville Md 21780 301-271-2149

scenicvieworchards com

Frederick Farmers Market 1215 West Patrick St 10:-1:00 On Dec 14th, MMM accepted

Thurmont Ambulance Company Presents FREE BREAKFAST W/SANTA December 14, 2024 7-11 a.m.

Pancakes, Scramble Eggs, Sausage, Orange Juice, Milk, Coffee

Thurmont Event Complex 13716 Strafford Dr Thurmont, MD 21788

VIGILANT HOSE COMPANY NEW YEAR'S EVE BINGO 17701 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg, MD

Tuesday, 12/31/Doors Open @ 5pm/Games @ 8pm All Inclusive 9 pk/$50 for 30 games, 2 Jackpots @ $2000 each 5 SPECIALS @ $500 each/All other games $300/Incl Dinner Platter! Reserved seating if tickets purchased by 12/13 Tickets purchased after 12/13 will be $60 No checks mailed after 11/22 For info: Pam @ 240-472-3484 or @ Marylou @ 240-285-3184 Reserve right to change payouts if 200 are not sold

Weekly BINGO

Every Friday Night

Doors open @ 5 p m , Bingo starts @ 7 p m Bonanza, Early Bird, Regular, Specials, Jackpot! Small Jackpot-$500 Big Jackpot-$1500 Great Food!

Thurmont Event Complex 13716 Strafford Drive Thurmont, Maryland Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, Inc

8

2- WINCHESTER RIFLES, model 94, bicentennial, Wells Fargo ($1500) and ANTLERED Game ($1800), never-fired, OBO

PARKER HALE LIMITED, 30 06, boltaction, w/scope, $795 OBO

THOMPSON CENTER, 45 gal muzzle-loader, $325, OBO, 301524-2870

EXCAVATING AND GRADING SERVICES

Septic Systems (New & Repairs), Electric Service Conduit w/Potomac Edison & Cable companies Also, 14-Ton Track Loader, Backhoe, Skid-Loader work Free estimates Call Roland Wolfe at 301-371-5344, LM & will return call

RAGDOLL KITTENS,

mtpleasantruritan.com.

FCC Handbell Choir — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Frederick Community College, JBK Theater, Visual and Performing Arts Center, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Experience the unique beauty and sound of the handbell choir concert. Under the direction of Barbara Scheffter, a musical tribute to the colors of Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanza, along with special guests, post-concert treats, and a lot of fun! Ticketed event, tickets are free. Save your seat! 301-846-2566. mgersten@frederick.edu. FCC2024HandbellChoir.eventbrite.com.

THEATER

“A Christmas Carol” — 7:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join Maryland Ensemble Theatre for a heartwarming and magical journey as they bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic to life on stage. Experience the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future. In the process, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, gentler man. $28. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ a-christmas-carol-2024.

Saturday Dec. 14

“Floating Beauty: Women is the Art of Ukiyo-e” — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. This exhibition examines historical perspectives on women and their depiction in art from Edo Period Japan (1615-1858). Organized and drawn from the collection of the Reading  (Pa) Public Museum, this exhibition features over 50 woodblock prints, including works by ukiyo-e masters. 301-739-5727. cschelle@wcmfa.org. wcmfa.org/floating-beauty-women-andthe-art-of-ukiyo-e.

Wine and Cookie Pairing — 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Adams County Winery, 251 Peach Tree Road, Orrtanna, Pa. Any time between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., grab your wine and cookie pairing. We will have three cookies prepared by the Butcher Shoppe including Snickerdoodle, Cherry Cake and Chocolate Crinkle. When you arrive at the Tasting Room, be sure to have your confirmation with you and let us know if you would like a dry or sweet flight of 3 of our wines. 16.00. 717-334-4631. sean@adamscountywinery.com. adamscountywinery.com/event/ holiday-wine-and-cookie-pairing.

CLASSES

Shri Yoga: Flex, Fix, Fun! — 10 a.m. to noon at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Shri Yoga is a calming but challenging style practiced in an informal environment. Classes include various asanas, breathing exercises, chakra vibration, mantras and relaxation techniques. Attendees are welcome to bring their own mat. 301-600-7000.

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

Adult Crafternoon: DIY Gift Wrapping — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Learn how to creatively wrap gifts with help from local crafters. Kraft paper and accessories will be available to use. Feel free to bring your own wrapping and use this as a space to wrap gifts away from prying eyes! 18 and older.

eschenkelberg@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

No-Bake Holiday Treats — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Middletown Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Make three easy nobake recipes for the perfect holiday get-together! We will make a mocktail, appetizer and dessert that require no baking. Teens and adults welcome, recommended for ages 16-25. 301-600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

ETCETERA

Museums by Candlelight at The Delaplaine — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Create your own “stained glass” tea light candle holder, available while supplies last. Then visit other participating sites in any order. For information on other Museums by Candlelight programming, go to visitfrederick.org 301-698-0656. jclark@delaplaine.org. delaplaine.org/programs.

Frederick Farmers Market - Holiday Market — 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gavigan’s Furniture - under awning, 1215 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Frederick Farmers Market will be hosting a special Holiday Market. Vendor lineup will include meats, produce, mushrooms, baked goods, crafts and more.

Frederick Apple Core — 10 a.m. to noon at Walkersville United Methodist Church, 22 Main St., Walkersville. A Macintosh User Group, meets the second Saturday of each month. Follow Apple Logo signs. Users of Apple and similar products (MacBooks, iMacs, Mac Pro, iPhone, iPod, iPad, iWatch, etc.) are invited to attend. All ages. bobesposito@mac.com. frederickapple.org.

Living History at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine — 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Members of the Blue and Gray Hospital Association, dressed as Confederate medical staff, will describe the medical history of America’s Civil War, as well as displaying period medical equipment.  Free. 301-695-1864. tracey.mcintire@civilwarmed.org. civilwarmed.org/event/ living-history-december-2024.

Comic Pop-Up Show and Sale — 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Beyond Comics, 5632 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. Hosting local cartoonist Terry Flippo (flip). Original art will be available for purchase at this event. 301-829-0183. jmflip4@verizon.net. beyondcomics.com.

Wreaths Across America Wreath Laying — 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pine Grove Chapel

Cemetery, 737 S. Main St., Mount Airy. Join wreath laying on the graves of Mount Airy’s  hometown heroes on this day of remembrance, National Wreaths Across America Day.  httbabylonvaultcompany.com/wreathsacross-america.

Wreaths Across America Service — noon to 1 p.m. at Taylorsville United Methodist Church, 4356 Ridge Road, Mount Airy. A service to honor veterans and lay a wreath on each veteran’s grave. 410-875-4101. taylorsvilleumcmd@gmail.com. taylorsvilleumc.org.

Country Churches Christmas Tour — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Municipal Center, 301 Main St., Myersville. Take a free, self-driving tour of historic churches in Myersville, Ellerton, Harmony, Wolfsville, Foxville and Pleasant Walk. Stop at the Tour Headquarters in Myersville Municipal Building for a tour map, list of participating churches, interesting historical displays, refreshments and restrooms. 301-910-3921. babssavitt@aol.com. mwahistory.com.

Fredbricks with Falling Squares — 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at FAC Artist Studios Classroom, 7 N. Market St., Frederick. Every Second Saturday of the month. Immerse yourself in a world of creativity and innovation as we showcase the latest in brick-building technology. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting out, there’s something for everyone at Fredbricks. Connect with fellow brick enthusiasts and unleash your inner architect! Register online.

$15 adults, $10 kids. 301-662-4190. info@frederickartscouncil.org.

FCC Jazz Big Band Performance — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Frederick Community College, JBK Theater, Visual and Performing Arts Center, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. A swinging toe-tapping concert featuring classic favorites, and traditional masterpieces. Led by Howard Burns, the music is brought to life by the dynamic performances of our FCC Big Band musicians. This premiere jazz ensemble has long wowed audiences with tight harmonies, virtuosic solos, and swingin’ style!

301-846-2566. mgersten@frederick.edu. FCC2024BigBand.eventbrite.com.

Scott Ambush Jazz Live! — 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. If you want to see musical genius, then you don’t want to miss this show. Internationally acclaimed and Frederick local jazz bassist Scott Ambush is back by popular demand!! Long time member of Spyro Gyra - world tour traveler! If you haven’t seen Scott and his band live, you are missing out! He is the real deal!! A true Musician!Join us for an epic night of music. Think you might not be into Jazz, think again!! Come on out and you will understand!

$5. 301-372-4880. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.

FAMILY

Lions Club Children’s Christmas Party — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at VHC Activities Building, 17701 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg. Mr.

and Mrs. Claus, crafts, entertainment, hots dogs, cookies and hot chocolate.

Spend An Afternoon With The Dance Unlimited Rockettes! — 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Dance Unlimited, 244 B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. You’ve seen them dance in the Kris Kringle Parade in Downtown Frederick, now your young dancer can spend an afternoon with them! A fun afternoon of holiday music and dance, complete with a special performance at the end for parents in our in-house theater! Participants will all receive a special T-shirt to wear for the performance and enjoy cookies and drinks after the show!

$20. 301-662-3722. office@performingartsfactory.com. go.rallyup.com/danceunlimitedrockettes.

FESTIVALS

The Great Lisbon Farmers Feed the Hungry Christmas Parade — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Historic Town of Lisbon, 15928 Frederick Road, Woodbine. Formerly known as The Lisbon Christmas Horse Parade, kicks off with Tractors, Horses & Hounds at noon. Festively decorated tractors driven by local farmers will lead the parade followed by up to 250 seasonally adorned horses (both ridden and driven) along the parade route. 240-449-6435. LisbonParade@gmail.com. lisbonchristmasparade.org.

Museums by Candlelight — noon to 7 p.m. at Utica District and Rose Hill Manor parks, Frederick. At Utica District Park at the Snook Family Farm and Agricultural Center, 10200-B Old Frederick Road, explore exhibits, self-guided tour of the center while learning about the history of the Snook family and the Utica region. At Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 N. Market St., Frederick, self-guided tours of the property, hands-on activities, living history demonstrations. Special exhibits will also be featured to recognize the 250th anniversary of the Revolution of 1774 and the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s visit to Frederick.

Wild Sprounts’ 3rd Annual Lantern Walk — 4:30 p.m. at Hope VAlley Farm & Retreat, 1069 Valley Road, Knoxville. For all ages. Wild Sprouts offers nature-based programs for kids. Welcome winter and celebrate the coming solstice with lanterns, a bonfire and joy! Open to all. wild-sprouts.com.

MUSIC

Encore Chorale Free Winter Concert — 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. Join the Encore Chorales of Frederick and Asbury Methodist Village for a free winter concert. Free but tickets are required. Visit encorecreativity.org/tickets to reserve your seats.   301-829-2230.

lindabrightwell@hotmail.com.

Scott Ambush Jazz — 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. Internationally acclaimed and Frederick jazz bassist Scott Ambush is back by popular demand. Longtime member of Spyro Gyra. $5. 301-372-4880.

matt@rockwellbrewery.com.

A local family in New Market spreads Christmas spirit to the community with their free, interactive Christmas display.

MOM

(Continued from 8)

Hill Manor Park, 1611 N. Market St., Frederick. At the Snook Family Farm, families can explore exhibits and take a self-guided tour of the agricultural center while learning about the history of the Snook family and the Utica region. At Rose Hill Manor, enjoy selfguided tours of the property’s exhibits and historic buildings, get crafty with hands-on activities, and check out living history demonstrations. Special holiday exhibits will also be featured to recognize the 250th anniversary of the Revolution of 1774 and the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s visit to Frederick. Both locations offer free admission. Advanced registration is not required.

•••

Wild Sprouts’ Lantern Walk

4:30 p.m. Dec. 14

Hope Valley Farm & Retreat, 1069 Valley Road, Knoxville

Free

For all ages

Join Wild Sprouts, one of Frederick’s leading nature-based programs, this Saturday for a fun, cozy evening. Families will welcome

THEATER

“A Christmas Carol” — 2 p.m. at Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join Maryland Ensemble Theatre for a heartwarming and magical journey as they bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic to life on stage. Experience the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future. In the process, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, gentler man. $28. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ a-christmas-carol-2024.

Bah Humbug: A Christmas Carol (Mostly) Improvised — 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St. , Frederick. This Christmas — choose your own Scrooge! In “Bah Humbug,” Michael Harris and a team of Maryland’s best improvisers turn your suggestions into a never seen before, never to be seen again reboot of the Dickens’ classic. Hilarious, unpredictable and full of audience participation. $20 general, $17 seniors and students. 443-454-3520. gmichaelharris@gmail.com. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ bah-humbug-2024.

Christmas Cantata — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Buckeystown United Methodist Church, 3440 Buckeystown Pike, Buckeystown. The church’s Agape Choir will present “This is Christmas,” a cantata by Mary McDonald during its 10:30 a.m. worship service. buckeystownumc.org.

FAMILY

Breakfast with Santa — 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Company Reception Hall, 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy. All-you-can-eat breakfast buffet and visit with Santa. Buffet includes scrambled eggs, smoked sausage, bacon, French toast, pancakes, biscuits, home fries, sausage and chipped beef gravies, baked apples and beverages. Visit website for details.

$14 adults, $9 ages 6 to 12, ages 5 and under free with a paying adult. 301-8290100. info@mavfc.org. mavfc.org.

the winter and celebrate the coming solstice with lanterns, a warm bonfire and plenty of joy! This event is free and open to everyone. Visit wildsprouts.com to learn more.

•••

Grinchmas at Idiom

1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 15

Idiom Brewing Co., 340 E. Patrick St., Unit 104, Frederick Free

This Sunday, head to Carroll Creek! Idiom Brewing is hosting a free event perfect for the whole family. The grumpy yet lively Grinch will make an appearance from 1 to 5 p.m. for a meet and greet by the Christmas tree! Smile or pout with the Grinch for pictures, then get creative with fun crafts and activities for the kiddos that they can take home. Adults 21+ can enjoy Idiom’s offerings of beer, cocktails and wine. Food is available to order from Idiom’s in-house kitchen, where your stomach and your heart might just grow three sizes!

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

“A Christmas Carol” — 7:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join Maryland Ensemble Theatre for a heartwarming and magical journey as they bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic to life on stage. Experience the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future. In the process, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, gentler man. $28. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ a-christmas-carol-2024.

Sunday Dec. 15

Sunday Funday — noon to 9 p.m. at Frederick Eagles, 207 West Patrick Street, Frederick. Get your game face on because it’s Sunday Funday and we’ve got football all day long. 301-663-6281. FrederickAerie1067@gmail.com.

CLASSES

How To Deal With Grief During The Holidays — 3 p.m. at Jackson Chapel United Methodist Church, 5609 Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick. Jackson Chapel’s Health & Wellness Ministry sponsors. Presented by Dr. Denise Hall Brown Rollins, executive director of Whole Heart Grief & Life Resource CenterFrederick MD.   301-694-7315. jacksonchapel@comcast.net. jacksonchapelumc.org.

ETCETERA

Grinchmas at Idiom — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Idiom Brewing Co., Unit 4,, 340 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Family-friendly event. The grumpy, yet lively green Grinch will make his appearance for a meet-and-greet by the Christmas tree! Smile or pout with the Grinch for pictures, then get creative with fun crafts and activities for the kids that they can take home. Adults 21+ can enjoy Idiom’s offerings of beer, cocktails, and wine. Food is available to order from Idiom’s in-house kitchen, where your stomach and your heart might just grow three sizes.

MUSIC

Rohrersville Band Holiday Concert — 3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. at Rohrersville Band Hall, 4315 Main St., Rohrersville. Under the Direction of Bill Hollin and Holly Feather, the band will entertain with a stylistic mix of traditional and modern festive music. Selections include compositions by Johann Strauss, Leroy Anderson, Chip Davis, Mariah Carey and others.  Light refreshments available during the intermission. Donations gladly accepted. 301-471-9867. ronmoss11@hotmail.com.

Emmitsburg Community Chorus Concert — 4 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 8619 Blacks Mill Road, Thurmont (Creagerstown). Under the direction of Peggy Flickinger, the 31-voice group includes members from Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. They are accompanied by pianist Lisa Mattia. The concert features holiday favorites. jnbgraham@gmail.com.

Christmas Concert featuring the Washington D.C. Temple Choir — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 199 North Place, Frederick. Traditional religious Christmas music will be featured as well as familiar popular holiday music favorites. The public is invited to this free concert. 240-409-6608. joan.orchard@gmail.com.

POLITICS

Ceasefire NOW March and Rally — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at March from Winchester Hall to City Hall with rally at the Baker Park band shell, Winchester Hall, 12 E. Church St.; City Hall 101 N Court St; Baker Park Band Shell

Tiffany Mahaney

Winchester Coin Club Show

Friday, December 20, 9 am – 4 pm

Friendship Fire Hall 627 N Pleasant Valley Rd • Winchester, VA 22601

Free Parking, Free Admission Door Prizes, Raffles, Food Buy-Sell-Trade, Free Appraisals

101 North Bentz Street, Frederick. A rally to support the Frederick Ceasefire Resolution, urging local government leaders to take a stand for peace and justice in the Middle East. The event will call on Frederick’s City and County governments to join approximately 200 jurisdictions and organizations nationwide in endorsing similar resolutions that demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and Israel. Frederick.CeasefireNow@gmail.com.

THEATER

“A Christmas Carol” — 2 p.m. at Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join Maryland Ensemble Theatre for a heartwarming and magical journey as they bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic to life on stage. Experience the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future. In the process, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, gentler man. $28. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ a-christmas-carol-2024.

Monday Dec. 16

ETCETERA

Pack the Cruiser Event — 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Weis, Food Lion and Walmart, Mount Airy. Mount Airy Police Department will be accepting food conations to benefit the Mount Airy Net at these locations. If you are financially able to do so, consider making a donation to help those in need this holiday season.

Tuesday Dec. 17

CLASSES

Harmony In Healing: Monthly Homeopathy Exploration — 4 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. at The Common Market, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. Dive deep into the world of natural wellness and explore the principles of homeopathy, share insights, and empower each other on our journey to optimal health. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting your holistic adventure, our study group is the perfect place to discover the transformative power of homeopathy. Meets monthly. 301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop.

ETCETERA

Frederick County Soil Conservation District Board Meeting — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Frederick County Soil Conservation District, 92 Thomas Johnson Drive, Suite 230, Frederick . At the SCD Office. An agenda will be posted online at least 24 hours in advance.

301-695-2803. kmcafee@frederickcountymd.gov. fcscd.com.

Winter Clothing Swap at the Co-op! — noon to 3 p.m. at The Common Market,

927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. Refresh your wardrobe while promoting eco-friendly practices! Bring your items, swap and discover items brought by community members! Any leftover clothing will be donated to the Frederick Rescue Mission. 301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop/ classes-events/winter-clothing-swap.

Sacred Sisters Circle: Light for the Long Night: A Solstice Ritual — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Give Rise Stuido, 125 S. Carroll St., Frederick. We near the longest night of the year, and the sacred return of the sun that is the Winter Solstice. Join an evening of ritual honoring the beauty of the dark night’s womb, and connecting with the seed of light cocooning, gestating and readying to birth a new season of life. As community we will weave breathwork, movement, sacred altar making, candle gazing, rest meditation and song. $20+ Sliding Scale. amandaluciaart@gmail.com. themind-bodyway.com/ sacredsistersfrederick.

FAMILY

Elementary Explorers: Games & Puzzles — 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Explore a variety of games and puzzles at the library. This program is for children in kindergarten through 5th grades (ages 5-10).

301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

MUSIC

“Messiah” Sing Along — 8 p.m. at Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. A Frederick community holiday tradition since 1994, director Judith DuBose will conduct a 40-voice chorus, 20-piece orchestra, and four soloists through select choruses and arias of the “Messiah” by G. F. Handel. The audience is invited to join the chorus for select numbers such as the “Hallelujah Chorus” and “For Unto Us a Child is Born.” Copies of the full vocal score will be for sale in the lobby.

$30. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ messiah-sing-along-2024.

Wednesday Dec. 18

CLASSES

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

ETCETERA

Holiday Party: A Program for Adults with

Developmental Disabilities — 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Come enjoy karaoke and dancing to celebrate the holidays! This program designed for adults with Developmental Disabilities and their caregivers. 18 and older. 301-600-8200.

fcpl.org.

HEALTH

Friends In Frederick Parkinson’s Disease Support Group — noon to 2 p.m. at Mount Pleasant Ruritan Club, 8101 Crum Road, Walkersville. The Clustered Spires Chorus of Sweet Adelines will be providing entertainment at the annual holiday party. This event is popular with people with Parkinson’s, their caregivers and families.  240-815-0080. john.nicodemus@verizon. net. fifpdsg.org.

Thursday Dec. 19

CLASSES

Frederick County Civil War Roundtable Presentation (v irtual only) — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.. As the first comprehensive botanical history of the Civil War, Judith Sumner’s recent book “Plants in the Civil War: A Botanical History” examines military and civilian uses of plants, from plantation landscapes and agriculture to slave medicine, prosthetic limbs, and military engineering. Plants provided both the cash crops at the heart of the conflict and the raw material used in waging war. This illustrated talk will emphasize the key topics of crops and enslavement, plantation life, Civil War medicine, and southern landscapes and war — all illuminated from a botanical perspective. This is virtual presentation may be accessed at https:// www.youtube.com/@nmcwm.

Free for members, $5 suggested fee for non-members. gldyson@comcast.net. frederickcountycivilwarrt.org.

ETCETERA

A Legacy of Memories: Creating Your Personal Memory — 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. This workshop is designed to guide you through the possibilities of crafting personal legacy projects

that capture your unique experiences, values, and stories for future generations. Participants will embark on a meaningful journey to preserve and share their life’s most cherished moments. 18 and older. 301-600-7250.

frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Queer Art Social! — 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Common Market, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. Come paint, draw, create, make and mingle every third Thursday of the month. Bring something you are working on and or start a new project! You do not have to be a visual artist to attend, all forms of creating are welcome! This is a free drop-in social gathering! Music, sparkly drinks, tea and limited art supplies will be provided.

301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop.

FAMILY

Teen Time: Design a Cookie Cutter! — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Use a simple 3D modeling program to design your own custom cookie cutter to be 3D printed! Cookies not included. This program is for teens in 6th through 12th grades (ages 11-18).

301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Friday Dec. 20

ETCETERA

Veterans’ Coffee Hour — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Middletown Senior Center, 101 Prospect St., Middletown. Join Veteran’s resource specialist Michaela Browne to meet other veterans and their families in an informal setting. Light refreshments provided. 301-600-5700. middletownseniorcenter@ frederickcountymd.gov. frederickcountymd.gov/ 8075/50-Community-Centers.

Lawyer in the Library — noon to 3 p.m. at C Burr Artz Library, 10 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Free one-on-one legal advice from Maryland Legal Aid lawyers. Types of issues include bankruptcy, child custody, divorce, expungement (removing convictions from criminal records),

foreclosure, government benefits, landlord/ tenant, wills/tenants. Customers are helped on a first-come, first-served basis, no appointments necessary. 301-600-1630.

lparish@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Groceries for Seniors — noon to 1:30 p.m. at Frederick Senior Center , 1440 Taney Ave., Frederick. A free monthly distribution of seasonal produce, canned goods, and shelf stable products. This is a “farmer’s market” style distribution located inside of the Frederick Senior Center. All Frederick County residents age 60+ with an income below $1,450 per month are eligible to participate. Please bring a photo ID to register the first time. Groceries for Seniors is offered on the third Friday of each month.  301-600-1234.

DAI@frederickcountymd.gov. frederickcountymd.gov.

Holiday Nights at the Museum: Tours and Toasts — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. Enjoy a relaxing evening with a special holiday cocktail and charcuterie before touring our exhibitions. Free admission. 301-739-5727. cschelle@wcmfa.org. wcmfa.org/concerts-lectures-2.

Bad Santa Party — 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. Join us for the most epic holiday bash of the year! Unleash your inner mischief and embrace the festive

spirit like never before. Christmas costume contest where the most outrageous outfit will be crowned the winner. DJs will be playing favorite Christmas tunes. Sip on festive cocktails made with our hard seltzer! Food truck, drink specials. Ages 21 and older. 301-372-4880. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.

FAMILY

Search for the Christ Child 2024 — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Frederick Church of the Brethren, 201 Fairview Ave., Frederick. Also Dec. 21 at noon and 5 p.m. A heartfelt celebration of the true spirit of Christmas. Take part in an engaging 30-minute journey through Biblical Bethlehem, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the Christmas season. While you wait for your journey to begin, enjoy free refreshments and crafts. ASL interpreters will be available. 301-662-1819. sftcc.fcob@gmail.com. fcob.net.

HEALTH

Feldenkrais: Awareness Through Movement — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at MIddletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Join us for Awareness Through Movement where you will be guided through movements that explore daily functions such as reaching, turning, breathing and walking. 301-600-7560. lgrackin@frederickcountymd.gov.

fcpl.org/calendar.

MUSIC

F.A.M.E. Song Circle — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Mount Airy Town Hall , 110 S. Main St., Mount Airy . Make some music with other folks. All ages and abilities welcome. Bring an instrument, your voice,  or just your ears. D.Koronet@att.net. frederickacoustic.org.

THEATER

“A Celtic Christmas By A Taste of Ireland” — 7:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. This thrilling production elevates the holiday season with electrifying performances by stars from “Riverdance” and “Lord of the Dance” and a star-studded roster of World Champion Irish dancers. Featuring traditional high-energy Irish tunes, heartfelt ballads and favorite carols. $35 and up. weinbergcenter.org.

Saturday Dec. 21

CLASSES

Shri Yoga: Flex, Fix, Fun! — 10 a.m. to noon at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Shri Yoga is a calming but challenging style practiced in an informal environment. Classes include various asanas, breathing exercises, chakra vibration, mantras and relaxation techniques. Attendees are welcome to bring their own mat. 301-600-7000.

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

ETCETERA

Myersville Indoor Farmers Market — 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Myersville Fire Co. Banquet Hall, 301 Main St., Myersville. Held on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Shop local, enjoy fresh and high-quality products, and support the sustainability of the region’s agriculture and economy. Shoppers can expect a diverse array of offerings, including seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, eggs, handmade crafts, and other unique items. 301-524-1035. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

MUSIC

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

MSO in Concert: Home for the Holidays 2024 — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Elizabeth Schulze, conductor. Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with these festive performances featuring a delightful blend of beloved traditional and popular music, capturing the true essence of the holidays. $40. 240-382-2623. nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org.

Thursday, dec. 12, 2024 |

marylandsymphony.org/.

Eric Byrd Trio: “A Charlie Brown Christmas” — 8 p.m. at Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. For years now, Washington-native Eric Byrd has been performing the iconic soundtrack from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” with his trio at venues across D.C., Maryland and Virginia. The show begins with a screening of the Peanuts holiday classic followed by a live performance of the Vince Guaraldi masterpiece score. $30, $25, $20. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org.

THEATER

Bah Humbug: A Christmas Carol (Mostly) Improvised — 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. This Christmas — choose your own Scrooge! In “Bah Humbug,” Michael Harris and a team of Maryland’s best improvisers turn your suggestions into a never seen before, never to be seen again reboot of the Dickens’ classic. Hilarious, unpredictable and full of audience participation. $20 general, $17 seniors and students. 443-454-3520. gmichaelharris@gmail.com. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ bah-humbug-2024.

Dance Unlimited Holiday Showcase! — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Dance Unlimited, 244 B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Also at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Join Dance Unlimited students and the Dance Unlimited Repertory Company as they present their 2024 Holiday Showcase! This family-friendly performance presents performances to some of your favorite holiday tunes, including a dancing Santa and a fun a holiday skit too!  $15. 301-662-3722. danceunlimited@ performingartsfactory.com.

Sunday Dec. 22

ETCETERA

Christmas Breakfast Church — 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Natelli Family YMCA, 3481 Campus Drive, Ijamsville. Living Grace Church in Urbana hosts. Christmas Breakfast Church is a combination of a community breakfast and morning prayers. Living Grace is a Lutheran Episcopal Church.  240-285-9758. pastor@livinggraceurbana.org. livinggraceurbana.org.

Sunday Funday — noon to 9 p.m. at Frederick Eagles, 207 West Patrick Street, Frederick. Get your game face on because it’s Sunday Funday and we’ve got football all day long.

Service with Cantata — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Taylorsville United Methodist Church, 4356 Ridge Road, Mount Airy. Worship service with the cantata “Only Love.” 410-875-4101. taylorsvilleumcmd@gmail.com. taylorsvilleumc.org.

Song Circle! — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Common Market, 5728 Buckeystown Pike,

Unit B1, Frederick. Join us for a Song Circle hosted by David Koronet in our Route 85 Community Room. Please bring sheet music if you would like to lead everyone in a song. Song Circles will be held every second and fourth Sunday of the month. All ages. 301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop.

MUSIC

Christmas Cantata - Vivaldi’s “Gloria” — 11 a.m. to noon at Grace United Church of Christ, 25 E. Second St., Frederick. Grace Church’s choir presents Antonio Vivaldi’s famous “Gloria,” a Baroque musical composition for choir and soloists. Led by Director of Music Nathan Strite, the choir will be joined by guest instrumentalists for this performance. The event takes place during our regular morning worship service.

MSO in Concert: Home for the Holidays 2024 — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Elizabeth Schulze, conductor. Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with these festive performances featuring a delightful blend of beloved traditional and popular music, capturing the true essence of the holidays. $40. 240-382-2623. nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org. marylandsymphony.org.

Monday Dec. 23 CLASSES

Sol Yoga — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join us for this free yoga class offered by Sol Yoga.  Be sure to wear comfortable clothes. 18 and older.

301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

FAMILY

School’s Out! Welcome Winter Celebration — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Let’s welcome winter with fun S.T.E.A.M. related projects! Make a Mason jar snowman, create and experiment with a snowball catapult and more! Ages up to 5, elementary. dspurrier@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Classic Winter Movie Night — 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. at Middletown Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Join us for a cozy family movie night to watch “Jack Frost” (1979) and “Frosty’s Winter Wonderland” (1976)! All ages welcome. Hot chocolate and snacks will be served. 301-600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

HEALTH

Community Cancer Support Group — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.. Community cancer support group for people who have

cancer, are a caregiver, or in anyway affected by cancer. Meetings are the first and third Wednesday each month. For more information, contact Donna Fox at dmf04945@yahoo.com. 301-471-5300. sefioravanti@gmail.com.

Tuesday Dec. 24

ETCETERA

Christmas Eve Service — 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Taylorsville United Methodist Church, 4356 Ridge Road, Mount Airy. Family service. 301-788-7174. taylorsvilleumcmd@gmail.com. taylorsvilleumc.org.

Christmas Eve Services — 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Buckeystown United Methodist Church, 3440 Buckeystown Pike, Buckeystown. 5 p.m. traditional family-oriented service with sing-a-long Christmas carols beginning at 4:30 p.m. Usually there is a Christmas story for the children during the service. 11 p.m. Silent Night service is a more intimate experience ending with the candlelight singing of “Silent Night, Holy Night” as we leave near midnight. buckeystownumc.org.

Christmas Eve Service In Urbana — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Natelli Family YMCA, 3481 Campus Drive, Ijamsville. Living Grace Church in Urbana will celebrate the birth of our Lord with a traditional candlelight service on Christmas Eve. The service will be held at the Natelli Family YMCA. It will feature traditional hymns, readings and conclude with the lighting of candles.  240-285-9758. pastor@livinggraceurbana.org. livinggraceurbana.org.

Candlelight Christmas Eve Service — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Taylorsville United Methodist Church, 4356 Ridge Road, Mount Airy. Celebrate with us!  All are welcome! 301-788-7174. taylorsvilleumcmd@gmail.com. taylorsvilleumc.org.

FAMILY

Candlelight Christmas Eve Church Services — 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Tom’s Creek United Methodist Church, 10926 Simmons Road, Emmitsburg. Services will be at 7 and 11 p.m. 4432803279. jcoleman0501@gmail.com. tomscreekumc.com.

HEALTH

Community Cancer Support Group — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.. Community cancer support group for people who have cancer, are a caregiver, or in anyway affected by cancer. Meetings are the first and third Wednesday each month. For more information, contact Donna Fox at dmf04945@yahoo.com. 301-471-5300. sefioravanti@gmail.com.

IN DOWNTOWN FREDERICK

December 14 & 21

Make the holiday season unforgettable by shopping local in Downtown Frederick! Discover unique gifts, indulge in delicious dining experiences, and create lasting memories all month long. On December 14, bring the family downtown for a Holiday Scavenger Hunt and then round out your shopping list with FREE gift wrapping and photos with Santa on December 21. Plus, parking is free every weekend through New Years! downtownfrederick.org

Photo credits: Moy Dumadag, Sean Reel