The Frederick Art Club is bringing an exhibition that was years in the making to an in-person audience at last. “Inspired by Claire” features artwork created in response to legendary fashion designer and Frederick native Claire McCardell. The show opens May 4 at Frederick City Hall with a reception from 2 to 4 p.m. It runs through May 29. The show was originally planned as a fundraiser tied to the club’s campaign to erect a bronze statue of McCardell along Carroll Creek, but the pandemic forced it online. Now the paintings are finally on the wall, where they belong. The eight artists whose work is on display are Colleen Clapp, Marion Griffin, Jane Dunsmore, Linda Moran, Karen Peacock, Mary Ryan Reeves, Cristy Stup and Sarah Hempel Irani. City Hall, at 101 N. Court St., Frederick, is open weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except Memorial Day. Learn more at frederickartclub.com.
FSO ROCKS WITH PINK FLOYD
For most symphony-goers, a night at the orchestra means hushed reverence and formal attire. Frederick Symphony Orchestra conductor Glenn Quader has other ideas. On May 2, the FSO will bring a full Pink Floyd program to the Jack B. Kussmaul Theater at Frederick Community College — and “full” is an understatement. The show draws on arrangements by Canadian music company Jeans ‘n Classics and layers in synthesizers, sequencers and sampler playback machines to recreate the sprawling sonic world of “The Wall” and “Dark Side of the Moon.” Quader will be triggering much of the soundscape himself from a synth-equipped bass. This is not your grandmother’s symphony night.
RUN FREDERICK, RUN
Up to 5,000 runners are expected to descend on Frederick this weekend for the Frederick Running Festival, one of the region’s most popular road races. The Twilight 5K and Kids Fun Run kick things off May 2, with the main event (a half marathon drawing up to 3,000 runners) starting bright and early at 7 a.m. May 3 at the Frederick Fairgrounds. The course winds through some of the city’s best scenery — downtown’s Market Street, Baker Park, the minor league baseball stadium and Hood College — before finishing back at the fairgrounds. For all of you non-runners, stop by for a post-race celebration at the fairgrounds with live music, vendors and cold beer. If you’re not running and not celebrating, plan accordingly: rolling road closures will be in effect along East Patrick Street, Market Street, Bentz Street, Fifth Street, Carroll Parkway, Rosemont Avenue and Schifferstadt Boulevard. For race details and registration, visit frederickrunfest.com.
HAGERFEST GOES NATIONAL
Hagerstown’s biggest arts street festival has always had regional appeal, but this year it’s going national. Hagerfest Music & Art Festival on May 2 will host the National Mural Awards, drawing recognized muralists from across the country who have been working on large-scale public pieces throughout downtown since April 27. The awards ceremony is open to the public at 3 p.m. at Live at Hub City Vinyl. The rest of the day — 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at University Plaza — includes live music headlined by The Reagan Years, an artisan marketplace, a graffiti art battle and poetry readings. A community mural project along the Hagerstown Cultural Trail at Meritus Park will wrap up the weekend’s creative activity. For a full schedule, see mainstreethagerstown.org.
THE FRIDAY NIGHT CLUB COMES TO HAGERSTOWN
It started with a small black-and-white photograph at the Guggenheim. Frederick-area author Alyson Richman was captivated by a placard noting that Swedish artist Hilma af Klint met weekly with four other women for séances and collaborative art-making — a circle they called De Fem, or the Five. That curiosity led Richman to reach out to her friend and fellow writer Sofia Lundberg in Sweden, and eventually the two, joined by the late M.J. Rose, co-authored the 2023 novel “The Friday Night Club.” On May 1, Richman and Lundberg will appear at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts in Hagerstown for an author talk and reception tied to the museum’s “The Scandinavian Home” exhibition.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Share your community stories and events with us! Email 72 Hours editor Lauren LaRocca at llarocca@newspost.com.
SUMMER CAMPS
Engineering Genes & Exploring Genetic Traits
July 6–10, 2026
The Business of Bioscience
July 13–17, 2026
Explore biotechnology through hands-on lab experiences and entrepreneurial learning. Extract DNA, study genetic traits and discover how biotech innovations become real-world businesses.
9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily at Hood College 401 Rosemont Ave. Frederick, Maryland
$650 per week (includes lunch)
EAT & DRINK
Homesick for tamales, she built a food truck empire
BY ALEXANDER DACY adacy@newspost.com
When Karina Goytia and her family moved to Frederick in January 2016, they noticed a lack of Mexican food options compared to Central American cuisine in the county.
“Every time we would order a tamale, we would get a whole chicken leg inside,” Goytia said. “We’re not used to that.”
So, Goytia started making her own tamales and food reminiscent of her childhood in Mexico City. Her husband’s co-workers encouraged her to post her creations to Facebook, which led to seven customers ordering 10 tamales each.
That began a whirlwind of word-of-mouth sales, which led to Goytia purchasing a food truck later in 2016 and setting up at the Great Frederick Fair.
She never worked in the food industry before, but a decade since that initial flurry, Goytia owns and operates three food trucks plus a small corner shop in Buckeystown as Traditional Authentic Mexican Food.
The simple menu evokes the street food of her youth, starting with tacos.
“Tacos in general are an allday meal,” Goytia said.
The birrira taco is the most popular, she said, but a variety of meats and vegetables are available on the made-to-order classic, topped with onions and cilantro and served with lime and salsa. Fried quesadillas and Mexican street corn are other consistent best-sellers, Goytia said.
The food truck is still Traditional Authentic Mexican Food’s primary operation, partnering with most breweries and wineries in Frederick County since its opening. But customers can walk into the brick-and-mortar location, adorned outside and in with a wall of flowers and tower of trinkets evoking Día de los Muertos celebrations, and order food as well.
IF YOU GO
Street Tacos at Traditional Authentic Mexican Food.
Staff photos by Ric Dugan
Traditional Authentic Mexican Food in Buckeystown.
The dining room at Traditional Authentic Mexican Food in Buckeystown.
11/30 Visitors Center celebrates Harriet Lane
The Franklin County Visitors Bureau invites the public to an afternoon tea on May 2 celebrating Harriet Rebecca Lane, who was born in Mercersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, on May 9, 1830. The niece of President James Buchanan, Lane served as the nation’s first lady during the Buchanan presidency from 1857 to 1861.
Tea begins at noon in the Great Room on the second level of the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center. Tickets are $37 per person. Each participant receives a take-home teacup and teas. The program will explore Victorian flower arranging and how to accent outfits with flowers — a hallmark of Lane’s style as first lady.
Hats are a tradition of Lane’s era, and every participant is invited to wear one — craft a special creation or wear a favorite. Prizes will be awarded for Most Elegant, Most Springtime Inspiration and Harriet’s Pick.
The menu includes cucumber sandwiches, summer sandwiches, cookies, strawberry tarts, milk bread and an array of teas.
Seating is limited. Tickets are available at explorefranklincountypa. com or by calling 717-552-2977.
Frederick Theatre District Collaborative will host joint Comedy Festival
Three downtown venues — Maryland Ensemble Theatre, New Spire Arts and the Weinberg Center for the Arts — are partnering for a Comedy Festival running May 1 to 3. Tickets for each event can be purchased individually through each venue or as a weekend pass through Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s website at marylandensemble.org.
FESTIVAL LINEUP
Improv Basics Workshop, 6 p.m. May 1 at New Spire Arts and 6 p.m. May 3 at MET Stage 2. Led by Molly Parchment and other MET-associated artists, this inclusive workshop is open to all experience levels.
Part of MET’s Ensemble School programming.
“Meet & Greet,” 8 p.m. May 1 and 4 p.m. May 2 at MET Main Stage. A new comedy play by Stan Zimmerman and Christian McLaughlin in which four actresses audition for the same sitcom role — with tensions, egos and shocking revelations to follow. Each performance will be followed by a talkback and book signing with Zimmerman, a twotime Writers Guild of America nominee whose television credits include “The Golden Girls,” “Roseanne” and “Gilmore Girls.”
The Comedy Pigs, 8:30 p.m. May 1 and May 2 at MET Key Stage. The region’s longest-running improv troupe, established in 1993, brings together veteran and current members for short-form improv games.
“Arthur and Friends Make a Musical,” 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. May 2 and 1:30 p.m. May 3 at MET Stage 2. MET’s FUNCompany presents this family-friendly musical based on the beloved Arthur book series by Marc Brown, with book and lyrics by John Maclay and music and lyrics by Brett Ryback.
“Menopause the Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change,’” 2 and 8 p.m. May 2 at the Weinberg Center for the Arts. The sequel follows five women on a cruise, with a new soundtrack of parodied hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s.
Juggle Flow class, 11 a.m. May 3 at MET Key Stage. A guided workshop in juggling, flow arts and object manipulation led by Stephen Craig, MET ensemble member and assistant technical manager of the Weinberg Center and New Spire Arts. Open to all ages and skill levels; participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Cathy Ladman, 3 p.m. May 3 at New Spire Arts. A veteran of 10 Tonight Show appearances with her own HBO One Night Stand special and a 2024 Dry Bar special, Ladman is also known for roles on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “Modern Family,” “Mad Men” and “Pretty Little Liars.”
For the complete schedule, visit marylandensemble.org or weinbergcenter. org.
Courtesy photo
Harriet Lane
David S. Spence
The Comedy Pigs
Courtesy photo
Cathy Ladman
Courtesy photo
The Improv Basics Workshop will be held at New Spire Arts.
Dorian Young
Stan Zimmerman
Leaning into the curves Max Vendetti’s bluegrass debut
BY DYLAN HYMAN
Special to The News-Post
The Appalachian music tradition blends 18th-century Scots-Irish ballads and fiddle tunes with the instrumental stylings of traditional African American music. Around the 1940s, a hightempo, off-beat-focused, improv-driven subgenre developed in the Carolinas and quickly became a culture of its own, spreading rapidly across the eastern half of the United States. Today, bluegrass exists as a modern link to our past and continues to thrive as a space for authentic roots music.
One local player has decided to take on a new challenge, and through connections he made at local community jam sessions, has recorded an album capturing this new chapter. Max Vendetti has learned to lean into the curves of life, even if it means stripping back everything he has worked so hard to build as a musician.
Vendetti grew up in nearby Olney and bounced between the Baltimore and Washington, D.C., metro areas through college and early adulthood, ultimately landing back in Frederick County after six years in a wood-stoveheated farmhouse. Musicianship had always been in and around the family, though more in a casual, hobbyist orbit. “My dad had a banjo and guitar that he would play while us kids would run around the house — nothing serious, he didn’t play in bands or anything.”
The earliest spark came through his grandfather’s drum set. “My grandparents got me a drum set when I was 5, it was small but it was an actual set. I beat the s- — out of that thing for years — it was always there but it wasn’t the biggest thing to me.” With the mentorship of the elder Vendetti, the younger sat behind the kit for his first taste of a proper jam session. “My dad started playing more guitar with me on the drums and would teach me the basics of rhythm. Now, he went to school and got his art degree, totally a painter first … but still had that artistic mind. He wrote several songs and we would jam on them … that’s where it all started.” For years, the duo would run tunes until there was no more music to play, or until dinner was starting to get cold.
On the listening side, he vividly recalled an early staple: the Beatles’
greatest hits compilation “1,” constantly on in the car with his parents. “But the first album that I remember buying myself was at Circuit City — ‘Mothership’ by Led Zeppelin. I heard the name in passing, must have been in 5th or 6th grade and picked it up, ‘These guys got something going on here!’” Despite continuing to expand both his listening palette and his musical repertoire via a gifted mini Squier Stratocaster from his grandparents, music still didn’t fully grip the young player — that was until the birth of one of gaming’s most popular
music series in the mid-2000s.
“I fully credit Guitar Hero to why I really started to play, I got so into it … specifically Legends of Rock featuring Slash on the cover.” While some critics argue that pressing buttons on a plastic peripheral is the furthest thing from playing an actual guitar, the reality is that it puts musicianship’s foot in the door of the virtual shredder and inspires them to learn how to play their favorite songs — just ask Post Malone, a Guitar Hero II purist.
Vendetti attributes one event in
particular to converting him into a musician at heart: Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival, an annual celebration held at Sherwood High School in Sandy Spring. “It’s a three-hour performance where at any given time, there’s two or three guitar players on stage, drums, bass, keys, a horn section, backup singers, dancers, and then there’s somebody who leads a song. It’s been going on for over 50 years … my mom was in it, I was in it, it’s this awesome tradition they have.” His biggest regret was not doing it until senior year, but being recruited by music teacher Bill Evans was what convinced him to keep playing out and forming bands.
One of those early bands became his main outlet for the next decade: the Silver Books. “The name came from one of the other music teachers, but the four of us have been playing together since high school. The original bass player’s dad built their basement to resemble the Beatles’ Cavern Club … he would suggest songs for us to learn and play — it was the coolest thing in the whole world. Guitar Hero and that basement being available to get in there and improvise and experiment … that’s what kept me going to want to have any success at all in life, to be able to make a music space of my own.” The Silver Books are a local jam band covering everything from Grateful Dead to Hendrix, with a handful of original tunes thrown in for some homegrown flavor.
The life of a part-time musician is one of tolerated turbulence: lining up schedules for rehearsals and gigs, squeezing in practice time, carefully maintaining equipment just to have it mysteriously not work the day of the show. Vendetti is well-versed in rolling with the punches. He recalled a pivotal moment with the Silver Books that shifted his perspective on what it meant to be in a performing band. “We were offered the 2019 New Year’s Eve show at a local brewery but two weeks before the event, I got a call from one of the managers dropping us from the gig. They found another band with a larger following … it was fair but I remember being super bitter about it.”
With his glass half full, he came back to the band with the news — and a plan. “They were upset, but I needed to take over a little bit. We made some intentional changes because of that hardship and if we hadn’t done that,
Courtesy photo
Max Vendetti
it would have fizzled out. It was the motivation that we needed as a band to move forward.” Through the early 2020s, the Silver Books refined their act, invested in both themselves and their equipment, and continued touring the local circuit.
Many Frederick-based bands who find themselves in the brewery and winery circuit find it hard to get out — free reign over a few hours of casual air time plus a decent paycheck that pays for gas and a stop at Taco Bell on the way home. Who wouldn’t want that gig? But what ends up happening is those bands never level up to a proper venue space, never find real fans who are there for the music first. They unconsciously brand their performance as background noise.
For Vendetti, there was a feeling of stagnation around the performative side of his music, and a 2023 trip to Nashville provided an opportunity to explore what an alternative life could look like. “My wife and I were considering moving out of the state and we both love music. Once you arrive, you realize it’s the trenches — these people playing on Broadway for a living until two o’clock in the morning … that is not a life that I want to live. But what I took away was that everybody down there is their own person, their own band … you owned it.”
IF YOU GO
Max Vendetti “Different Kind of Ride” album release show, 3 to 6 p.m. May 3, Steinhardt Brewing, 340 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Visit steinhardtbrewing.com for details.
He mentioned one artist in particular who made an impact, “Matt Greer was one guy who stood out … he had his backing band, but it changed every night. People who are making any kind of living or name for themselves are doing it by themselves.” Vendetti took the time to soak it all in while beginning to redefine his relationship with music. “I had these songs that I wrote acoustically but what was I supposed to do with them? They weren’t going to work with the electric band and so at that point, I wanted to refocus them into a solo project.”
Returning to Maryland, Vendetti was eager to see what the open mic and community jam scene was all about, and quickly found himself at a bluegrass jam at Liquidity Aleworks in nearby Mt. Airy. “I knew how to pick a little bit so I showed up and it turned out to be a solid time.” He explained the mechanics of the community gathering: “When it gets to your turn in the round, you choose a song …
I only knew a couple of bluegrass tunes at that point, so I picked ‘The Old Home Place’ … little did I know that was the most common one to be called.” As the song picked up momentum, Vendetti felt a wave of energy pass through his body — the embodied spirit of American folk music beginning to take hold. “My heart was racing … it was a feeling that I hadn’t felt in a long time.”
Frederick musician and producer Jason Hannan hosts a handful of local jam sessions for musicians of all abilities to come and appreciate bluegrass the way it was meant to be played — in a round of local players looking to unwind with some good tunes and company. Vendetti recalled how the two began their musical relationship: “I got to know him through the jams and he approached me asking if I had any original music. He owns his own label, Waiting for Lester Records, and has recorded several people from the area over the last couple years trying to build it up. When somebody offers to record you, you say yes.”
Vendetti candidly shared a previous studio experience that never saw the light of day. “The second time recording with the Silver Books was a failed attempt actually, not even two years ago. We went in with this guy, a friend of a friend kind of thing, and
he was pretty darn professional. We went there and threw down a couple of scratch tracks over the course of six hours and paid him. But it never came up again in the band, we didn’t finish it. I don’t know if we started prematurely and if some of the songs that we were doing weren’t really complete. Fast forward a year and a half but Jason approached me and asked if I wanted to do an album … how could I say no?” So with a collection of songs documenting this new direction in his musical identity, Vendetti began working with Hannan on his debut solo album.
“Different Kind of Ride” features five originals and six covers. “The leading track and first single, ‘The Hickory Handle,’ was written about our time in that old farmhouse, splitting firewood and how insane it all was. The hickory handle is a splitting axe that I found in my grandfather’s garage after his passing. That tool got me through five winters of brutal homestead living.”
The subsequent track, “The Snick,” carries a heavier emotional weight. “I wrote this one about a cat who we came to know at the old house. It started coming around so we fed it and came to love it. We contacted the county because they have a feral animal vaccination procedure prior
(See VENDETTI 9)
Frederick County’s only storefront travel agency, staffed by experienced travel specialists
Run the Frederick Keys Bases Demonstrations Caricatures & Face Painting ($) 2026 Design An Ad Gallery
Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium 21 Stadium Drive, Frederick the first 350 kids will receive a KIDS EXPO SHIRT & GOODIE BAG
REGISTER FOR A C HANCE TO WIN AT FREDERIC KNEWSPOS T.COM/GOTO/KIDSEXPO Photo Ops with Keyote & Milkshake from Flying Cows
Music in the Village concerts return to Worman’s Mill
The weekly outdoor concert series is back at the Village at Worman’s Mill, with performers taking the Gazebo Stage every Friday evening from 5 to 8 p.m. May 1 through Sept. 25. The full schedule is at wormansmillvillage. com.
On second Saturdays May through September, the series expands with Mutts & Music — pet adoptions with Double Dog Dare Rescue, also from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Gazebo Stage. Double Dog Dare will bring dogs for prospective owners to meet, along with themed activities
VENDETTI
(Continued from 7)
to adopting, so we gave it to them and they took her away … two days later I got a call and they said they had to put her down because she had fluid in her lungs. I’m proud of the song but there’s a lot of emotion behind it.”
The penultimate original came from the 2023 Nashville trip that became the catalyst for the entire album. “I wrote it on the plane coming back from Nashville. I was enamored with the culture down there … it’s a party.” The covers are all classic bluegrass tunes in tribute to the culture — except for a Beatles tune, “Can’t Buy Me Love,” delicately rearranged to better fit the instrumentation and tone of the album.
“I write songs as a hobby, I pick up a guitar every day of my life because I love it. The production around it, writing and having it take form … it’s my art.” Reflecting on how miraculous it was that the project even existed, he added: “The universe presented this … I did not go out of my way to seek it out. In the past when I’ve gone out of my way to make something happen, it failed. I’m a big believer in doing things that you are either called to do or the universe presents to you.”
To the outsider’s ear, bluegrass can seem like simple 1-4-5 chord changes and a rehash of the same lyrical themes dressed in denim. Vendetti offers an insider’s perspective: “Some of the older stuff is that straightforward stereotype, but there is this subtle maturity that you have to have to be a good bluegrass picker because it’s easy to overplay,” he said. “In the electric group, I would hide behind effect pedals a lot and it may work for that kind of thing, but sitting down on a metal chair with an acoustic guitar and one microphone to do the recording … you gotta be on your s--
-. I’ve been thrilled to be able to get comfortable with just the acoustic guitar.”
Vendetti will handle guitar and vocals on the record, leaning on his new musical family to fill out the rest of the sonic spectrum. “I’m bringing somebody in to do a tenor harmony for a couple of tunes because it’s too high for my range and it’s a good friend of mine kind of thing. Other players include Shannon Bealski on fiddle, her husband Rob Benzing on banjo, Hayden Shaw and Garrett Ren on mandolin, Jason Hannan on bass, and Howard Parker and Casey Haberman on dobro.” All were connected at local jam sessions around the area, reinforcing the community-first culture that bluegrass cultivates so uniquely.
As for the instrument of choice, there was only one guitar that could ever make the cut. “I’m using my Martin D-28 for everything. My wife bought it for me for Christmas of 2023. I don’t know why she did it, it’s not a cheap guitar and it’s not like we are rolling in money, but she did it.” Without hesitation, he explained what makes that instrument so special: “There’s cosmic energy everywhere, and that guitar has magic in it. It came into my life through my loving wife, Allison, and ever since then, things have changed. That guitar would go into the grave with me literally.”
Vendetti explained why musicianship is so important to his wellbeing and development as an artist. “I’m not really trying to pursue a career from it, but I have found my passion in music. It’s an outlet and de-stressor for sure, but it’s also an opportunity to experiment and make art … you need to let it happen naturally and roll with it. I come from a line of artists — my dad is a painter, my grandfather was a carpenter.”
He shared some advice for other musicians looking to play out and start making a name for themselves: “First and
and a concert in the gazebo.
Each week features a rotation of performers and cuisine from neighborhood restaurants Andaz, the Corner Shoppe, Plaza Mexico, Ricci and Sweethaus. Dine in, on the patio or take out. Seating around the gazebo is first come, first served, and guests are welcome to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
The Village at Worman’s Mill is off Route 26 and Monocacy Boulevard, Frederick. For more information, visit wormansmillvillage.com or call 240285-9263.
foremost, if you’re trying to pursue music — it has to be fun. You have to show up and you have to be involved. Go to your friends’ gigs, support them because you want them to come support you. If you are doing it for the money and fame, you are doing it for the wrong reasons.” He added: “If you feel stuck or something, don’t give up. Think about how you can redirect your current situation towards a different trajectory.”
Outside of his album release show, Vendetti hasn’t made many plans for what comes next. “I’ve thought a lot about what’s next … I honestly have no idea. Part of me would love nothing more than to be able to have some success with the album — get the group that I’ve got to be an actual band and play more shows.” He may have his plate full for a little while regardless — his daughter was just born this past December.
He promised that time would be made for continued community jam sessions and shows, including Dead for One Night, one of the area’s premier Grateful Dead cover bands, and the Shade Tree Collective, a bluegrass band headquartered in Hagerstown that has been finding success out of state. “If nothing comes from it at all and if I never play another gig, that album is recorded and I’ll have a CD that proves it, right? Something to show my daughter if nothing else.”
Local musicians like Vendetti — ones that make music for the sake of making music with other local craftsmen — are the backbone of our music community. Through his journey in bluegrass and debut solo album, he proves that if you meet the opportunities with a positive attitude and take the challenges on with grace, your success will be limitless.
Courtesy photo
Pull up a chair: Worman’s Mill makes for a relaxing setting for outdoor concerts.
Courtesy photo
Max Vendetti
FSO rocks
Glenn Quader brings Pink Floyd to the symphony stage
BY DARYL CAMPBELL
Special to The News-Post
For many people, the image of an orchestra conductor is frozen in stereotype — a stodgy European with wild hair, a strict devotion to the classics and little interest in modern sound. That assumption evaporated the moment I learned the Frederick Symphony Orchestra was preparing a full Pink Floyd program.
I jumped at the chance to cover it, and even more so to speak with someone who not only conducts the great symphonic works but also embraces other genres, eras and technologies. To my surprise and delight, conductor Glenn Quader is as comfortable with digital tools as he is with a baton.
He has been the FSO director for the past 10 years. I talked to him ahead of the special Pink Floyd show they’ll perform at Frederick Community College. Have you done projects like this before?
Several years back, I tried a project with another group, launching a full band-with-orchestra concert. It’s been highly successful. I’ve done about 30 of these shows since then, all around the region — Maryland, D.C., Virginia — and some large festivals as well. May 2 is all Pink Floyd, which is already symphonic in nature. We’ve done about four rock-with-orchestra shows with the FSO — a few at Baker Park and a few at FCC. What were some of the biggest challenges of bringing this piece together?
Not only is it a rock band and orchestra, but there’s a lot of outside music and sound — synthesizers, sequencers, sampler playback machines. It’s a very complex show with all of that added in. We’re hard at work getting the technical stuff sorted out. This taps into my long-standing career of working with a lot of different genres outside classical music. I’m a bass and saxophone player, so that’s taken me into jazz and popular music. I’ve recorded and toured all over the world, and now I’m pulling it all together to mesh with the full orchestra.
We want to present something relatable to our patrons — mostly classical music lovers who also enjoy rock. Pink Floyd is perfect for that. The music is symphonic in nature, full of large-scale soundscapes with so many layers. Believe it or not, I’ve been developing MIDI synth-bass systems for 15 or 16 years. My main bass is outfitted with a synth module, and I’m triggering much of the soundscape people will hear. It’s very complex. It’s even kept me up at night
symphonic
IF YOU GO
“FSO Rocks: The Music of Pink Floyd,”
7:30 p.m. May 2, Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Tickets available at fredericksymphony.org.
these last several weeks as I’ve tackled technical changes. Mac updated its operating system and changed some MIDI protocols, so I had to reprogram a ton of stuff. It’s functional now, and it ties into my studio background. I’ve always been into technology, and this show plays right into that. A couple of other band members have similar setups, so together we can complete the soundscape and make it real.
Who arranged these pieces?
There’s a music company in Canada called Jeans ‘n Classics. They have a number of orchestral shows they’ve arranged — Pink Floyd, The Beatles, even funk. Their catalog is extensive. I’ve probably done no fewer than 120 charts from them in the past 15 years. The arrangements are very good for orchestra. Sadly, the arranger for this show, who was the mastermind, recently passed away. But the company still exists and operates. I love that I can perform the music I grew up on — the music that really kept me in music. Classical music can
feel one-dimensional at times, stylistically speaking. Having other genres keeps things fresh for me.
So, you were a fan of Pink Floyd previously?
My whole life. Growing up in the eighties, when “The Wall” came out, there was no way to avoid Pink Floyd. It was a big soundtrack to my youth. The albums we’re performing are “The Wall” and the epic “Dark Side of the Moon.” That’s the one with a ridiculous amount of sound sources — synthesizers, samplers, sequencers, everything. How is it for some of the other people in the orchestra?
Stylistically, a lot of them are out of their comfort zone, but I think they enjoy that. They want to know more about this kind of music. I always tell them: this is your one chance to be a rock star. Embrace it! Onstage, you have to approach it from a different perspective. It’s not a classical concert. You’re allowed to move your head, headbang, get into it. We want them to show that. I’m getting them out of their shell, and it gives them a new perspective. They might even walk down the street after the show and hear, “Oh my God, I saw you — that was so rockin’!”
It could be life-changing!
It definitely can be. When we plan our season, we have to figure out themes, and every year we get the same question: when are we doing another
rock show? That’s from our membership, and I love that. But I have to be careful not to overdo it or send the wrong message that we’re a pop orchestra. We’re a symphony first, but it’s nice to break out sometimes.
A friend of mine wishes the Weinberg Center booked more edgy acts. Every time we’ve done a show like this — especially when we first launched them — we saw a drastic uptick in ticket sales from people who would never step into a symphony hall. At our last Frederick concert, a Shostakovich program, I told the audience our next show was Pink Floyd. The reaction was immediate. It keeps symphonic music relevant while bringing in new listeners. Smaller regional groups like Frederick have to break the mold to keep people interested.
Any other thoughts?
For classical purists who may be hesitant: this group is known for its depth and complexity of sound. With the full orchestra, the rock band, the gear — it’s something you don’t often hear live. Take a chance. You’ll know many of the tunes you grew up with. Pink Floyd is still relevant. There’s so much to enjoy. You’ll be surprised by how much the music resonates.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Daryl Campbell, who performs as Daryltron, is based in Frederick.
Courtesy photo
Rock and
music will collide in the Frederick Symphony Orchestra’s Pink Floyd concert.
THE FREDERICK MOM
The Frederick Mom’s recommendations for the weekend of May 1
Activities to do with the kids this weekend, courtesy of The Frederick Mom.
BABY STEPS & COFFEE CHATS
10 to 11:30 a.m. May 1, Scott Key Community Center, 1050 Rocky Springs Road, Frederick, $35 per parent for the series
Parents of little ones ages 1 to 2 1/2, consider starting Baby Steps & Coffee Chats and meeting other mamas in Frederick. Starting this Friday, Frederick County Parks and Recreation is hosting this weekly event every Friday this month through May 29. Little ones can explore open playtime while mamas connect over a warm cup of joe. Reserve your spot in the series at bit.ly/FCPRBabyStepsCoffeeChats.
•••
MURDER MYSTERY FOR TEENS
2:30 to 3:30 p.m. May 1, Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick, free
Can you catch the killer? Students in grades 8 to 12 are invited to join Frederick County Public Libraries for a free day of role-playing, puzzle solving and detective work. When a daring murder occurs under the cover of darkness, a fancy party becomes the backdrop for a highstakes whodunnit!
•••
SUPERHERO TRAINING DAY
2:30 to 5:30 p.m. May 1, Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick, $9 per child
Calling all superheroes! Frederick County Parks and Recreation is hosting its annual Superhero Training Day this Friday. Kids ages 3 to 8 are invited to wear their masks and costumes and take part in interactive, super-strength training activities through various stations at Pinecliff Park. Each child will receive their own superhero cape. Pre-register for one of multiple timeslots at recreater.com. •••
CHICAGO THE MUSICAL: TEEN
EDITION
7 p.m. May 1; 1 and 7 p.m. May 2, Tuscarora High School, 5312 Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick, $10 per student, $15 per adult
The theater program at Tuscarora High School is producing “Chicago the Musical: Teen Edition” — all the drama, all the talent, all the fun. All tickets must be
purchased in advance at cur8.com/projects/15710.
•••
THE MUSIC MAN IN CONCERT
7:30 p.m. May 1; 3 p.m. May 2, Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, $15 per adult, $12 per senior or military, free for kids 12 and under
The Choral Arts Society of Frederick will close out its 82nd season with a rousing Broadway favorite in an exciting collaboration with the Frederick Catoctones barbershop chorus. Meredith Willson’s unforgettable songs come to life for two family-friendly performances. Tickets are available at casof.org/tickets or at the box office before the show. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
•••
YOUTH FISHING DERBY
8 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 2, Middletown Community Park, 7628 Coblentz Road, Middletown, free
Kids ages 3 to 15 can test their skills as anglers and see who can catch the biggest fish at Shelters 4 and 5 at Kingsbury Pond. Don’t have your own rod? Bait and tackle are available. Prizes will be awarded for different categories of
angling excellence. Grab your spot at bit. ly/FCPRFishingDerby. •••
A WEEKEND WITH CLAIRE
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 2 and 3, Claire McCardell Statue Garden, Carroll Creek Linear Park, Frederick, free
As part of America’s 250th anniversary, the Maryland 250 Commission is honoring Frederick’s own Claire McCardell — the visionary who forever changed how women dress. Everyone’s welcome to join the Frederick Art Club for this free community event featuring talks, live art and family activities. Plein air artists from the Frederick Art Club will paint and draw on site, and a Children’s Hour with Claire — storytime and coloring — will be held at 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. both days. •••
PRINT DAY IN MAY
Noon to 6 p.m. May 2, Frederick Book Arts Center, 127 S. Carroll St., Frederick, free Celebrate Print Day in May with the Frederick Book Arts Center! Learn about printmaking in all its forms across 160 years of industrial innovation and artistic expression. Local artists and teachers
will demonstrate everything from stone lithography to puzzle printing to cutting custom silhouettes. Kids can ink and print their own P22 block zine forms with Adele Ross.
HELEN SMITH WORKSHOPS
1 to 2 p.m. and 3 to 4:30 p.m. May 2, Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick, free
Pre-register for either of two Helen Smith Workshops sponsored by the Delaplaine Arts Center. The 1 p.m. session is for ages 6 to 8 (Big Zines, working with folding magazines) and the 3 p.m. session is for ages 9 to 12 (Needle Felted Friends, working with wool). Spots are limited — sign up at delaplaine.org/ instruction/helen-smith-free-workshopsfor-kids. •••
COWS IN STEAM NIGHT
7 p.m. May 2, Woodsboro Bank Arena, Hood College, 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick, $18 general admission, $10 per child
Frederick’s pro basketball team takes on the Reading Rebels Saturday night — and it’s also STEAM Night! The Flying Cows will highlight science, technology, engineering, art and math through interactive activities for kids. Shake your cowbell and cheer on the home team. Tickets at goflyingcows.com.
MOTHER’S DAY CRAFT
10 a.m. to noon May 3, Crybaby Cafe & Toy Library, 7 W. Main St., Middletown, $5 per child
Kids can play with toys in the Cafe’s Toy Library and enjoy a special hands-on Mother’s Day craft sponsored by KidCreate Studio. Registration is required and spaces are limited. Sign up at crybabycafefrederick.as.me/schedule/12304d5f.
PUPS & POSES
11 a.m. May 3, Rockwell Brewery, 8411 Broadband Drive, Suite K, Frederick, $25 per adult, $10 per child
Pups & Poses is a beginner-friendly yoga class surrounded by adorable pups, followed by time to hang out and love on some furry friends. Your attendance is a donation to a local pet rescue. Register at linktr.ee/jenuineyogi. Can’t make it Sunday? Additional dates: Aug. 9, Oct. 25 and Nov. 1.
Tiffany Mahaney is at least a fifth-generation native to Frederick County, where she now proudly raises her own family. She is the owner of The Frederick Mom. To see more local family-friendly things to do, follow her at @thefrederickmom.
TIFFANY MAHANEY
Courtesy of Frederick County Parks and Recreation
Frederick County Parks and Recreation is hosting their annual Superhero Training Day on May 1.
”Language of Abstraction” — through April 30, Vault of Visions Art Gallery, 1 N. Market St., Frederick. Exhibit of work by Ron Ames. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. vovartgallery.com.
Student Arts Showcase — through May 1, Kepler Center, Hagerstown Community College, 11400 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown. Artwork from students enrolled in the visual arts studio courses. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240-500-2221 or mayaukey@ hagerstowncc.edu.
Crestwood Gallery Winter Exhibit & “Healthy Horizons Through Students’ Eyes” Competition — through May 8, Frederick Health — Crestwood Building, 7211 Bank Court, Frederick. Original works including oil, watercolor, mixed media and photography from local artists alongside the “Healthy Horizons Through Students’ Eyes” Competition. Hours are 8 a.m.6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240215-1460 or frederickhealth.org/ crestwoodart.
”The Language of Glass” — May 1-24, Gallery B, 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Suite E, Bethesda. Works by the National Capital Art Glass Guild. Opening reception 7:30-9:30 p.m. May 2. Gallery hours are 3-8 p.m. Fridays, noon-5 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays. 301-2157990 or bethesda.org/gallery-b. ”Portals & Sanctuaries” — May 1-31, The Artists Gallery, 501 N. Market St., Frederick. Suzanne Lago Arthur’s solo exhibition through May 31, is inspired primarily by her travels to Spain and Japan (defined as “Portals”) and the domestic interiors of her life (“Sanctuaries”), the latter painted mostly from direct observation which she considers a meditative practice. Many of the oil paintings have been painted in a limited palette which adds to the atmosphere of her work. Artists reception 5-8 p.m. May 2 and 3-4 p.m. May 28. Hours are noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. 301-228-9860 or theartistsgalleryfrederick.com.
”Water & Vessels” — May 1-31, NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St., Frederick. Water paintings by Caroline Mayer and ceramic vessels by Jennifer Bernhard. Opening reception 5-8 p.m. May 2. Artists’ talk 2-3 p.m. May 9. Hours are noon8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon-
“Different Drummer,” features work by Ted Luck at the Blanche Ames Gallery from May 3 to June 28, with an opening reception on May 3. Shown here, “Huddled Masses,” by Luck.
4 p.m. Sunday.
”Mechanics and Infrastructure” — May 2-15, Links Bridge Vineyards, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. Park of the vineyards Wine and Art Series. An exhibit of artwork by Gillian Collins. This is a unique and beautiful exhibit of paintings of mechanical systems. They are common devices and machines that surround us every day and upon which our modern lives are dependent — yet these things are rarely celebrated and go practically unnoticed. Collins brings a new attention and perspective to everyday hardware components. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 301-602-5733 or linksbridgevineyards.com.
”Diffused & Defined: Landscapes in Contrast” — May 2-31, Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Sonja Mishalanie and Kathryn Phebus pair their artwork this month. This exhibition pairs two approaches to landscape: one atmospheric and softened, the other bold and vividly simplified. Together, the works explore how the terrain can be both felt and defined,
by Ali Wunder. Drawing from her collection of vintage and heirloom textiles, Wunder’s paintings include embroidery, fabric and pattern tissue, which she says are more than embellishment, they are a means of preserving not just beauty but belonging. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656, delaplaine.org.
”Invitation” — May 2-June 28, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Paintings by Lorena Long, inspired by the poem by Mary Oliver, echoing its gentle call to pay attention. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656, delaplaine.org.
2026 National Juried Exhibition — May 2-July 12, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Works in a variety of media. The Delaplaine’s annual juried show features works by artists from around the region and the nation. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656, delaplaine.org.
inviting viewers to see landscape through shifting light, color, and perception. Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. eastsideartistsgallery.com.
”INSPIRED!” Art Show & Sale — May 2-31, BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown. Award-winning painters, photographers, mixed media artists, ceramicists, fiber artists, and more! Opening reception 2-4:30 p.m. May 3. Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. 301-528-2260 or alog.org.
”2 by 2” — May 2-June 28, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This watercolor series, by Scott Ponemone, of couples’ portraits began in 2017, continued through the COVID pandemic, and concluded in 2025 after 86 paintings were completed. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656, delaplaine.org.
”The Language of Flowers” — May 2-June 28, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Acrylic and mixed media with enbroidery
”Inspired by Claire” — May 3-29, City Hall, 101 N. Court St., Frederick. Honoring the legendary fashion designer and Frederick native Claire McCardell (1905-1958). The artists are Colleen Clapp, Marion Griffin, Jane Dunsmore, Linda Moran, Karen Peacock, Mary Ryan Reeves, Cristy Stup and Sarah Hempl Irani. All art on display is for sale. Opening reception 2-4 p.m. May 3. Exhibit hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. frederickartclub.com. ”Different Drummer” — May 3-June 28, Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. Art exhibit by Ted Luck, with reception 12:45-2 p.m. May 3. Call 301-473-7680 or email gallery@frederickuu.org for gallery hours or to request and appointment to view the show.
”Light & Shadows Provide Inspiration” — May 28-July 28, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. An exhibit by the Gaithersburg Fine Arts Association. Opening reception 4-6 p.m. May 30. Parking at the A&E parking deck, 25 Renaissance Way, Hagerstown. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, Tuesday by appointment only. 301791-3132, washingtoncountyarts. com.
Courtesy photo
Everything is material Julie Maynard opens ‘Entrance’ at TAG
BY JENNIFER LEE Special to The News-Post
Julie Maynard moved to Frederick County in 1990 to expand on her father’s creative vision. Thirty-six years later, Maynard, now a mixed-media artist, is still a Frederick resident.
Maynard will exhibit at TAG/The Artists Gallery from May 1 to 31 with an opening reception from 5 to 8 p.m. May 2 and an artist talk at 3 p.m. May 23.
This new show is a nod to Maynard’s roots in traditional photography and will include black-and-white darkroom prints in addition to her original collage art.
Maynard’s mixed-media collage art is a form of painting — with paper on twoor three-dimensional surfaces, often incorporating objects picked up along the Potomac River and city streets. Her works on paper are also sometimes a mix of advertisements and illustrations torn from magazines and catalogues, and she always incorporates photography into her mixed-media collage work.
“This up-cycled art reflects on the impact our culture has on the environment and the impact that nature still has on us,” Maynard said. Her new photographs also show the depth of nature-human interaction and its overall impact on the earth and its inhabitants.
The found objects she incorporates into her collages add texture and shadow lines, while the three-dimensional pieces often begin with a shape from nature — a bird, a leaf — cut from wood.
Her mixed-media artwork is layer
settling down upon layer, which makes room for shards of the real world to emerge through photographs and mementos.
“The process of collage parallels the passing of time,” Maynard said.
Her art occasionally includes paint or pastel, but lately she has been using beeswax supplied by her and her husband’s beekeeping operation.
Maynard’s exhibits are creative in themselves, sometimes using video to
(See MAYNARD 22)
Oil painter Suzanne Lago Arthur brings ‘Portals and Sanctuaries’ to TAG
Painter and podcaster Suzanne Lago Arthur brings “Portals and Sanctuaries,” an exhibition of landscape, still life and interior oil paintings, to TAG/The Artists Gallery in May alongside Julie Maynard’s solo show “ENTRANCE.”
Lago Arthur draws inspiration primarily from her travels to Spain and Japan — the works she calls “Portals” — and from domestic interiors and still lifes, which she calls “Sanctuaries,” painted mostly from direct observation, a practice she considers meditative. Many of the works have a limited palette, which deepens the atmosphere. Together they examine perception, liminal spaces and the feeling of place.
Born in Puerto Rico to Cuban-American parents, Lago Arthur is also the host and creator of The Creative Contemplation Podcast. She has exhibited nationally and internationally at the Corcoran Gallery of Art and Art Museum of the Americas in Washington, D.C., the Booth Museum of Western Art in Cartersville, Georgia, and the United States Interests Section in Havana, Cuba, among other venues. She has been featured in the New York Times and House & Garden UK and
appears in U.S. Ambassador Vicki Huddleston’s memoir “Our Woman in Havana: A Diplomat’s Chronicle of America’s Long Struggle with Castro’s Cuba.” She holds a BFA from the Corcoran School of Art and an MA in museum studies from George Washington University, and she teaches painting at the Gathering Place at Faith Chapel in Lucketts, Virginia.
“Portals and Sanctuaries” and “ENTRANCE” are on view May 1 to 31 at TAG/The Artists Gallery, 501 N. Market St., Frederick. A reception will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. May 2. Both artists will be available for TAG Talks from 3 to 4 p.m. May 23. Lago Arthur will also be available from 3 to 4 p.m. May 28. Visit theartistsgalleryfrederick. com or call 301-228-9860 for details.
Photos by Mark Muse
ABOVE and BELOW: Work by Suzanne Lago Arthur.
“Entrance (Garden),” by Julie Maynard.
Courtesy photo
“Porch (Perth, Ont.),” by Julie Maynard.
FIELD to
BY TIFFANY MAHANEY Special to The News-Post
When I think of flower fields, my mind goes straight to Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion drifting through a sea of red poppies. It’s an enchanting, cinematic scene — and even though the Land of Oz is make-believe, those picturesque blooms are too magical to forget.
Do places like that actually exist in the real world? Because I’d love to experience that fairydust feeling, walking through a colorful bed of flowers with the wind in my hair and not a care in the world.
Fortunately, we don’t need to search for a yellow brick road — or even buy a plane ticket to the Netherlands. There are stunning flower fields right here in Frederick County, and they are well worth the trip down a winding country road.
Surely there can be no finer way to spend a pretty day than roaming fields of flowers with your family or friends, posing for photographs among the sweet-smelling blooms against a mountainous Maryland backdrop. Hello — that sounds like a dream! Honestly, someone please pinch me.
So while you’re making your spring and summer bucket list, don’t forget to add “visit a flower farm.” Here’s why.
Many flower farms offer garden experiences such as pickyour-own, flower subscriptions and floral bouquet workshops. Some locations even host fullblown festivals, complete with hayrides, live music and playgrounds where you can immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, pick your own keepsake blooms and make a whole family outing of it.
Dawn Josè, owner of Town
Limit Gardens told me, “picking is more than blooms; it’s experience of immersing the natural meadow has of new wildlife baby bunnies.”
U-pick flower truly blooming intended. Destinations offering both hands-on experiences, also makes afternoon for every family garden, so a flower farm agriculturally
Another is the season
Photos by Tiffany Mahaney
Jillian Comstock, of New Market, picks flowers at Summers Farm’s annual Flower Festival in Middletown.
FIELD toVASE
Gorgeous local flower farms to visit this year
THE FARMS
BIG WHITE BARN FLOWER FARM
6300 Manor Woods Road, Frederick
Gardens in Middletown, “picking your own than just selecting it’s an opportunity to experience the calming benefits immersing yourselves in environment. Our has welcomed all kinds wildlife from Monarchs to bunnies.” flower experiences are blooming — pun absolutely Destinations are both natural beauty and experiences, which makes for a teachable for the kids. Not family tends to a backyard for many, visiting farm is both fun and agriculturally educational. Another reason to visit: now season for filling your vas-
es with freshly cut flowers to brighten the home. It’s an instant mood booster. It’s time to get your dose of vitamin D and bring some color into your life with a fresh carafe of florals on the kitchen table.
And the variety of flowers in Maryland is endless — from zinnias to roses to sunflowers to lavender to dahlias, picking your own bouquet is such a fun experience for all ages, and the season of blooms is always changing. Just when the tulips fade, the dahlias arrive. Just when the dahlias peak, the sunflowers take over. There’s always something worth chasing.
Here’s a look at pick-your-own flower farms all around Frederick County — plus a few tips before you go.
A 200-acre historic farm growing specialty cut flowers alongside vegetables. Open Saturdays and Sundays when blooms are in season — look for the sign and follow it to a gorgeous field of zinnias, sunflowers and more.
BLUE DREAMS USA
11700 Old Annapolis Road, Frederick
CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN
ORCHARD
15036 N. Franklinville Road, Thurmont
Nestled in the foothills of Catoctin Mountain, this orchard is a Frederick County institution with beauty that extends well beyond the apple trees.
DAHLIA DEN & GARDENS
5318 Stone Road, Frederick
As the name promises, dahlias are the star of the show here — one of the most dramatically beautiful flowers in the late-summer garden.
FREDERICK FLOWER FARM
7102 Linganore Road, Frederick
A seasonal u-pick experience with blooms that change throughout the year — cheerful summer sunflowers giving way to elegant fall mums. The farm also has an on-site storefront with unique gifts, dried arrangements and house plants for browsing.
GAVER FARM
5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy
One of the county’s most beloved working farms, Gaver is known for its sprawling fields and festive seasonal events.
GRUMPY GOOSE FARM
7625 McKaig Road, Frederick
HOPE VALLEY FARM
1069 Valley Road, Knoxville
Tucked into the scenic South Mountain area near the Potomac, Hope Valley is one of those hidden gems that feels like a reward for finding it.
MAGNOLIA MEADOW FARMS
13001 Creagerstown Road, Thurmont
A 327-acre working farm in the Catoctin Mountain region with sunflower fields that draw visitors
from across the region each fall. If you’re going for the sunflowers, plan your visit for September — the late-season timing means cooler weather and fewer crowds.
RED ROCK FARM
12641 Creagerstown Road, Thurmont
ROCKY POINT CREAMERY
4323 Tuscarora Road, Tuscarora Yes, there’s ice cream. Yes, you should plan accordingly.
SPRINGFIELD MANOR
11836 Auburn Road, Thurmont
One of the county’s most spectacular destinations for flower lovers — more than 2,600 lavender plants of both English and French varieties bloom across a hillside with sweeping views of the mountains. The English lavender peaks in mid-June, the French in August, with a second bloom in September. Pick your own lavender to take home, or stay a while for a glass of award-winning lavender gin. The annual Maryland Lavender Festival, held each June, is an event unto itself.
SUMMERS FARM
7503 Hollow Road, Middletown
Home to a beloved annual Flower Festival with thousands of sunflowers, wildflowers, cosmos and zinnias across a sprawling field. With over 35 varieties planted, no two visits look the same.
TOWN LIMIT GARDENS
405 S. Church St., Middletown
VALLEY-HOMEMADE & HOMEGROWN
7800 Picnic Woods Road, Middletown
VALLEY VIEW ACRES
4005 Valley View Road, Middletown
Originally a dairy farm, Valley View has transformed into a local favorite for sunflowers, zinnias and wildflowers, with staggered bloom cycles that mean something is always in season. Their annual sunflower festival brings out craft vendors, food and ice cream against a panoramic hilltop backdrop. Sunflowers are just $1 per bloom — bring a big bucket.
WESTHILLS MANOR
4143 Weston Drive, Knoxville
TIPS FOR VISITING PICKYOUR-OWN FLOWER FARMS
There’s nothing quite like walking through a field of blossoms and crafting a custom bouquet from the prettiest picks. Keep the following tips in mind to make the most of your trip. Check the season. Flower picking windows can be short and fields can be picked through fast. Always visit the farm’s website or social media for the most up-to-date information before you go.
What to bring. Pack sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle and comfortable shoes. Consider bringing your own shears, as tools provided by the farm may be limited.
Be respectful. Follow farm rules, don’t step on garden beds and rows, and pick only from designated areas. Transporting home. Keep your flowers cool in the air conditioning and transfer the stems to water as soon as you get home.
Always contact the farm before getting in your car! Some locations are open only on weekends, some take reservations and some are ticketed events. Check their social media for opening day, which flowers are currently in bloom and any tips for visiting.
It’s worth it. Losing an afternoon in rows of tulips, lavender or wildflowers — then coming home sun-kissed and arm-deep in blooms — might be exactly the magic you’ve been looking for.
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, where she features family-friendly places, events and businesses in and around Frederick. Follow her @ thefrederickmom.
‘Bus Buddies’ returns for a wild ride
Nearly 10 years ago, “Bus Buddies,” a two-act comedy about life aboard a city bus, premiered in Frederick. This weekend it’s back, produced by the Endangered Species (Theatre) Project and funnier than ever.
The play is directed by Christine Mosere and written by Nancy Luse, based on her years of riding Transit to her job at The Frederick NewsPost, where she wrote the blog “Another One Rides the Bus.”
Regular Transit riders may recognize some of the play’s characters, especially Vernon and Rita, who sit in the driver’s seat.
There’s also a group of women who hold their diet club meetings in the back during a layover and a hotshot investigative reporter who lost his driver’s license and has to ride the bus — all the while uncovering the shady mayor’s plot to sideline public transportation.
Mrs. Timmons rounds out this world, lending an air of the rich and famous to everyday life with her stories about her late husband, Henry.
The current cast includes Hugh Gordon, James Baker, Mary Ann Turney, Cindy Green, and Russ Hodge and Cynthia Scott Johnson, who were in the original show. They are joined by Jane Hufstedler, Catherine Christman, Lukas Gutierrez, Ava Silberman, Diane Harrison, Deanna Kinzie, Iley Torres, Doug Jones, Matilda Tobar and Sue Rowland, who, coincidentally, works at Transit.
The show runs May 1 to 3 at the Schaeffer Center, 26 E. Second St., Frederick, on the campus of Evangelical Lutheran Church. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees are at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at esptheatre. org.
Courtesy photo
James Baker as Eddie and Jane Hufstedler as Mrs. Timmons practice a scene from “Bus Buddies.”
Novelists bring ‘The Friday Night Club’ to WCMFA
BY ERIN JONES
Special to The News-Post
Against the expansive backdrop of vibrant paintings in the 2019 Guggenheim Museum exhibition, a small black-and-white photo caught Alyson Richman’s eye. Beneath the photo of Swedish artist Hilma af Klint, the placard noted that the artist met weekly every Friday night with four other women, where they tried to communicate with the spiritual world through séances and create art. They called themselves De Fem, or the Five, and their meetings became the Friday Night Club.
Curious to learn more about this artistic circle of friends, Richman called her friend and fellow writer in Sweden, Sofia Lundberg. Lundberg had some familiarity with the group, but the phone call piqued her curiosity. Before long the pair had embarked on a mission to discover and tell the story of this artistic collaboration. They were joined by a third writer, the late M.J. Rose, and together the three women penned their 2023 novel, “The Friday Night Club.”
Richman and Lundberg will appear May 1 at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts for an author talk and reception. The event is part of “The Scandinavian Home: Art and Identity, 1880–1920” exhibit, which includes a work by af Klint.
The authors shared more about their novel in conversation with the Frederick News-Post.
How did this collaboration come about?
Richman: I was really struck by the fact that Hilma created her own circle of friends that she met with every Friday night and that these women helped her create these magnificent paintings that I was seeing in the galleries. But also what struck me was that they remained nameless — these four creative women. Because I’m always so curious, I started to think there was something to be explored here, and I reached out to my good friend [Sofia] who shares my love of art and a good story.
Sofia is a former journalist, so she’s very good at digging. I could never have done this book without Sofia’s help, particularly because she was able to go to the right places to find more information. Also, we’re very kindred spirits on how we see the world and the stories that move us. We did bring another author into the fold,
IF YOU GO
“The Friday Night Club” author talk with Alyson Richman and Sofia Lundberg, 6 p.m. May 1, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 91 Key St., Hagerstown. Tickets are $50 for museum members and $75 for non-members. Visit wcmfa.org.
M.J. Rose, who unfortunately passed away over a year ago. She also was someone who loved to write about art and forgotten women. We thought that it would be very interesting to create a story that had a dual timeline: one about an assistant curator who was putting together an exhibit for Hilma af Klint, giving the ability in the narrative to pose questions that Sofia and I answered together in the historical part. It becomes almost like a pas de deux, the way it’s written. It was a wonderful opportunity.
How beautiful that you brought this story into the world collaboratively among women, mirroring the collaboration in the story. What did that process look like?
Lundberg: At first it scared me because I’m not a native English speaker. I speak and write in Swedish. At first we had a plan that I would write in Swedish and we would translate, but we very soon realized that that wouldn’t work, especially since Alyson and I worked a lot with the historical timeline together. What we ended up doing was writing every other chapter, and my chapters were more like an outline. I’d say I drew them up with charcoal, and I had Alyson help me add colors. On the other hand, I was the one who could go into the archives because everything written was in Swedish, and I could interview the relatives and talk to them here in Sweden.
Richman: It could not have been possible without Sofia! The four
other women were very unique and had distinct stories that we started to uncover as Sofia started digging around, learning their stories and looking for photographs. When you’re writing a novel, you always want to make characters that are unique and no one feels the same. It was wonderful that that was given to us because they all had very unique personalities.
How are creativity and spirituality connected, either in this story or in your own experience?
Lundberg: We both believe that creativity has something to do with spirituality.
Richman: What we learned about the five women was that they each believed that they were almost like a working wheel together — who was doing the automatic drawings [drawing in a trance-like state], who was doing the channeling of the energy into the group, who was doing the painting or the drawings or the writing. Everyone had some sort of role that they were playing, but they were united in believing that there was this force that they could connect to.
An important part of the beginning and the end of the book is the burning of personal documents. Can you tell me more about what primary sources were lost?
Lundberg: There’s one diary missing that was burned.
Richman: And the letters to Anna [Cassel]. One of the things that we learned was that Hilma and Anna were probably lovers. We learned that from
Marie Cassel, who is the grandniece of Anna Cassel. It wasn’t something that we invented out of our imagination — it was something that was provided to us from a relative. Homosexuality, as we stated in the book, was illegal at that time. The letters between the two women we believe were burned in order to maintain their privacy in this relationship that was very sacred to the two women, but also probably to protect them as well.
We were very united in wanting to respect these historical women and their stories and not to manipulate anything for effect — to really stay as true as possible. We hope that comes across in the book.
How has Hilma’s legacy as an artist evolved over the years? How does the reception of her art now differ from when she was alive?
Lundberg: While she was a struggling artist, she wasn’t unknown. She had a studio in a big house in Stockholm where all the artists had their studios. In order to have a studio there she had to be recognized, and she was also very well educated, which was not common for women at that time.
The style in her later work, however, had been completely unknown because she hid those paintings — they weren’t supposed to be shown until 20 years after her death. I wish and hope she knows how big she’s become!
Society often tries to pit women against each other in competition. How does this book and the process of writing it address those attitudes?
(See NOVELISTS 22)
Courtesy photo
Sofia Lundberg
Courtesy photo
Alyson Richman
ROCKY SPRINGS CEMETERY COMPANY ANNUAL MEETING
The Rocky Springs Cemetery Company will hold their Annual Meeting on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 6:00 pm at 7904 Old Receiver Rd Frederick, Md 21702
BINGO BASH
Sat. May 2, 2026
Jefferson Ruritan Club
Doors Open – 11am; Game Starts – 1pm
Adv Purchase - $25/person (call 240815-1252)
$30 at Door
20 Reg Games, 2 Special Games & a Jackpot Game
Tip Jars, Pull Tabs, Door Prizes
Food available for Purchase
Bring non-perishable/ canned food item for the Jefferson Food Bank & receive a FREE special Game Card 4603B Lander Rd. Jefferson, MD 21755
CA$H BINGO
Sat, May 9th
Doors: 4:30pm Games: 6:00pm
$25 for 20 Games
Wolfsville Volunteer Fire Department For info: 301-293-4374
HENRY'S BLACKTOP PAVING, LLC
301-663-1888 • 301-416-7229 henrysblacktoppaving @gmail.com Call for FREE est MHIC 3608
JEFFERSON RURITAN SUB SALE
8" - 3 Meat Cold Cuts or Turkey & Provolone Subs
Veggies & mayo on side; $8 each
Pre-order required by May 8, 2026
Call (301) 416-0939 or (571) 888-1002 to order
Pick-up orders Thurs.
May 14, 2026, 3 to 6 pm 4603B Lander Rd , Jefferson, MD 21755
Thursday, april 30, 2026 | 72 HOURS
LION BOBBY RAKESTRAW
MEMORIAL CASH BINGO SPONSORED BY NEW MARKET DISTRICT LIONS CLUB
SAT., MAY 9, 2026
LIBERTYTOWN VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
12027 South Street, Libertytown, MD
DOORS OPEN AT 5:00 PM GAMES BEGIN AT 6:30 PM
REGULAR GAMES: $75 00 Plus 4 Games at $100
JACKPOT GAMES, $200 AND $500
TICKETS: $20 IN ADVANCE $25 AT THE DOOR
To purchase Tickets call Diana @ 301865-6830 or Donna @ 301-865-3134
Bring 3 nonperishable food items for a Local Food Bank and receive 3 cards for a Special Bingo
FOOD AND DRINKS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT 5:00 PM
ALL BINGO PROCEEDS ARE USED TO SUPPPORT LIONS COMMUNITY PROJECTS
SOUP & SANDWICH SALE
Pre-order by 05/03/2026 Pick-up Friday 05/08/2026 9:00 a m -12:00 p m 301-874-5642
All freshly made onsite 8" subs: $9 00 Ham & Cheese Turkey & Cheese, Chicken Salad & Country Ham 8" Cold Cut Sub is $10 00
Sandwiches: $7 00 Chicken Salad & Country Ham
Crab Cake Sandwich: $11 00 (fried or uncooked) By the lb: Chicken Salad $14 00; Sliced Country Ham $14 00
Soup: Bean & Cntry Ham, Chicken Corn, Vegetable, bowl $5 00/ qrt $9 00, Maryland Crab bowl $7 00/ qrt $11 Bake table and goodies available! Carroll Manor Fire Co Pick-up at: 2793 Adams St, Adamstown, MD
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!
Fri (5/1), Sat (5/2) & Sun (5/3) from 8a to 3p 9549 Fingerboard Rd, Ijamsville (hidden entrance; follow to end of lane) indoor/ outdoor furn , HH items, twin bed, futon, W/D, TV, lamps, linens, exercise bike, elec fireplace, curio cabinet and much more Everything must go! Stop by!
WE PURCHASE ESTATES
Large or small House calls made seven days a week Buying furniture, art, glassware, pottery, decorative arts, jewelry, gold, silver, coins, etc High-end vintage preferred Call Tom, anytime, day or night All calls returned. 301-654-8678.
Services Services
STRICTLY STUMPS & MORE TREE
A BETTER BATH REMODEL
Thursday April 30 CLASSES
Hood College Graduate School Virtual Admission Cafe — 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Virtual, Frederick. Second session at 5:30 p.m. The Graduate School at Hood College’s Virtual Admission Café provides opportunities for prospective students to meet with faculty and staff and learn how Hood’s graduate programs prepare students to go further in their lives, careers and communities. Pre-registration required. 301-696-3603. fowlercorsi@hood.edu. hood.edu/graduate/admission/visit-andevents.
The Pox, the Clap, and STIgma — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Beneficial-Hodson Library Boardroom (Rm 2006), 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. April is STI (sexually-transmitted infections) Awareness Month and the Microbiology, Public Health and History film festival at Hood College marks this by revisiting short public service information films, one made by Encyclopedia Brittanica, “Venereal Disease: The Hidden Epidemic”, and one by the US Public Health Service. 301-696-3663. chee@hood.edu.
ESL High Beginner’s/Low Intermediate Conversation Classes — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. We welcome adults who want to practice their English to a conversation class hosted by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Students will practice their speaking and listening skills with conversations guided by an instructor from the LCFC. 18 and older. Registration is required: https://tinyurl.com/42wsztha. 301-600-8200.
www.fcpl.org.
Intro to Soil: A Community Workshop —
7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Join Greg Susla, Master Gardener with University of Maryland’s Extension Center, for an engaging presentation, discussing soil’s formation, profile and function. The program will also address commonly found soil types in Frederick County and provide hands-on experience for testing your soil before gardening or plantings. Perfect for new and experienced gardeners alike. 18 and older.
301-600-7000.
fcpl.org.
“When The President Passed This Way” — Fourth Annual Lecture — 7:30 p.m. at Woodsboro Lutheran Church, 101 S. Main St., Woodsboro. Retired history teacher Dahl Drenning will share his years of research on the subject of George Washington’s 1791 tour of the original 13 states as it passed through Montgomery and Frederick counties, Maryland, and York and Lancaster counties, Pennsylvania. Dahl will lay out Washington’s itinerary in the Woodsboro area, and tell the stories, both fact and fiction, of these early days in our country’s history. 301-520-7154. rickbontz@yahoo.com. woodsborohistoricalsociety.org.
ETCETERA
2026 Exhibits at the Museum of Frederick History — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Take a deep dive into various topics that have defined Frederick’s history, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and our County’s role in the Revolution. Featuring brand new exhibits: “Cultivating Independence: Frederick in the Revolution,” “Witnessing Revolution,” “All Saints Street: Avenue to the History of Frederick and Its African American Community,”
Enjoy American music, classics, folk songs, film music Basilica of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Free and open to the public. Donations gratefully accepted.
“Growing Gold: A History of Frederick’s Goldfish Industry,” and returning favorites: “Etchison Connections,” “Timeless Toys,” “24 E. Church Street,” “Decorative Arts. See our all new and renovated exhibits, March 7 through Dec. 12!
$10 adults, $5 seniors and students. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org. frederickhistory.org.
Duplicate Bridge Pairs Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration Memorial Hall, 6909 Maryland Ave., Braddock Heights. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club’s ACBL sanctioned duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and meet other bridge enthusiasts. All are welcome. We host Pairs Games ($8) weekly on Monday (299 Limit and Open) and Thursday (Open). If you need a partner or want to brush up your skills, contact Membership Chair, Maria, at frederick@bridgewebsemail.com or check out our website.
Frederick Speaker Series: Walter Mosley — 7:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Walter Mosley is an iconic, prolific and beloved author whose award-winning work spans more than 60 books across genres including mystery, science fiction, young adult, nonfiction, graphic novels and erotica. Best known for his compelling Easy Rawlins detective series, Mosley gained wide recognition with “Devil in a Blue Dress,” later adapted into a film starring Denzel Washington. He revisits the beloved character in his upcoming novel Gray Dawn, released on Sept. 16. $45, $40, $35. 301-600-2868. dyoung@ cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/walter-mosley/.
MUSIC
“Symphony of Heroes: A Night of Video Game Music” — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Carroll Community College - The Hill Theater in the Scott Center, 1600 Washington Road, Westminster. Venture into your imagination with an unforgettable performance of epic video game music. All ages. 410-386-8184. lslappy@carrollcc.edu. www.carrollcc.edu/events/?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D1364054182.
POLITICS
Historic Preservation Virtual Training Event: Neighborhood Conservation Districts — 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.. Neighborhood Conservation Districts are a tool identified in the City’s 2020 Comprehensive Plan. The formation of these districts is an initiative scheduled for the out-years of the City’s three-year Work Plan (soon to be updated), following completion of the National Register District update, which is currently underway. The speaker, Kate Singleton, brings more than 40 years of experience in historic preservation, downtown revitalization, and economic and community development. RSVP required, limited to 35 participants. cmartinkosky@cityoffrederickmd.gov. cityoffrederickmd.gov.
Friday May 1
CLASSES
Back to Basics: Eat Real Food with the New Dietary Guidelines – 2026 Edition — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Common Market Co-op, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. Explore how today’s updated nutrition guidelines move beyond the old food pyramid to
emphasize real, whole foods that support lasting energy and overall wellness. In this class, you’ll learn how to build balanced meals with whole fruits and vegetables, quality proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains — while reducing ultra-processed foods. Walk away with simple, practical tools to nourish your body and feel your best every day. RSVP required. +1(301)663-3416. dmarcello@commonmarket.coop. www.commonmarket.coop/classes-events/ back-to-basics-eat-real-food-with-the-newdietary-guidelines-2026-edition/.
ETCETERA
Law Day: Advanced Medical Directives
Prepared at No Cost! — 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Schedule a free appointment with an attorney at one of the Frederick County 50+ Community Centers: Brunswick, 301834-8115; Emmitsburg, 301-600-6350; Frederick, 301-600-1234; Middletown, 301600-3613; or Urbana, 301-600-7020. Sponsored by the Maryland Bar Association of Frederick County and the Division of Aging and Independence. 301-600-1234. DAI@FrederickCountyMD. gov. www.frederickcountymd.gov/dai.
Open Coworking Day — 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cowork Frederick, 120 E. Patrick St., Frederick. It’s hard to explain the feeling of a community. You have to experience it. Come see if we’re the right coworking community for you. The first Friday of every month we stock the break room with breakfast fare, open our doors at 8 a.m., and welcome people like you to give us a try. $5. 301-732-5165. heycowork@coworkfrederick.com. coworkfrederick.com/open-coworking-day/#.
Fellowship Fridays — 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Veterans Service Center, 1750 Monocacy Blvd., Suite A, Frederick. Fridays through Dec. 25. A free hot breakfast each Friday which includes eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast, breads, muffins, fruit, juices, and Black Rifle Coffee Company coffee. Breakfast is open to all Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, Veterans, Military Retirees, Law Enforcement, First Responders, and their families. Breakfast is followed by a non-denominational Bible study at 10:30 a.m. Attendance is not required to enjoy a warm breakfast with
others who have served. info@veteranservicescenter.org. veteranservicescenter.org/events/.
The YAAC Show — 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Y Ausherman Arts Center, 115 E. Church St., Frederick. A bi-monthly, live talk show produced by the creative team at the Y Arts Center. An evening of inspiration, entertainment, and community connection — powered by the YMCA’s Arts and Humanities initiatives. Every other Friday at 5:30 p.m. This week’s guests: Tiffany Mahaney - The Frederick Mom, Steve Chu - Ekiben. Musical guest Pitz Quattrone — Didgeridoo maverick.
$10 at the door, free for YMCA members. 301-663-5131. jslaughter@frederickymca. org. www.frederickymca.org.
The Reagan Years in Concert — 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Rockwell Breweery, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. The area’s premier party cover band! Totally RAD! Grab your friends and your ‘80s gear and get ready for the ultimate party night! This seasoned quintet helped pioneer the 80’s tribute band concept in 1996 and have become one of the Mid-Atlantic’s strongest drawing acts. Doors open at noon, band at 8 p.m. $20. 240-575-9755. info@rockwellbrewery. com. tinyurl.com/cuar3psd.
FAMILY
Murder Mystery (Ages 13-18) — 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Join us for a day of role-playing, puzzle solving, and detective work. When a daring murder occurs under the cover of darkness. A fancy party becomes the backdrop for a high-stakes whodunnit! Can you catch the killer? For grades 8-12. 301-600-7000.
Superhero Training Day — 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick. Kids ages 3–8 will complete fun superhero-themed challenges and activities designed to test their strength, speed and bravery. Participants will train like heroes as they jump, run, and solve exciting missions while making new friends. Training sessions run at various start times between 2:30 and 5:30 p.m., and the cost is $9 per superhero. Costumes are welcome, so come dressed as your favorite hero and get ready for an afternoon of adventure! $9.
Meet Bob & Freddie. When it comes to local businesses, businesspeople and organizations in Frederick, they know best. Here is a personal interview with a 2025 Best of the Best winner or finalist about why they love what they do, helping those they serve and working in Frederick.
Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market
2025 WINNER FOR BEST FARMERS MARKET
11 Water Street, Thurmont 301-271-7313 thurmontmainstreet.com Facebook.com/ThurmontFirst
WHEN DID YOUR BUSINESS OPEN IN FREDERICK?
The Thurmont Main Street Farmers is in its 23rd season and began as one of three events we chose to begin our journey to apply for our Maryland Main Street Designation application in 2003. Our market has just kept growing for vendors and customers over the decades to what it is now.
WHAT SETS YOUR BUSINESS APART?
The Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market is the largest farmers market in Frederick County with 32 local vendors selling fresh and homemade. We are a walkable community, so anyone living in the town limits can walk to the market which is centrally located in the town. We also have folks come from Frederick, Montgomery County, DC, and southern Pennsylvania to enjoy our farmers market. Our average attendance is week is 500 folks enjoying all the freshness and localness we have to offer. We even have Yoga to get your day started!
WHY DO YOU THINK FARMERS MARKET ARE ESSENTIAL TO A COMMUNITY?
We know that all generations from the Greatest Era to Gen Alpha is eating healthier and the demand for fresh and local sourced products has only increased over the last decade. We know gen Alpha thus far are driven by their interest in sustainability, locally sourced produce, and educational food experiences. This interest is heavily influenced by their Millennial parents. It’s about fresh and local, and that demand is only growing like our local farms and vendors. Farm to table is here to stay and so is our market!
(Continued from 13)
provide a soundtrack, while at times she will hang pieces overhead or high on a wall to tug at viewers’ peripheral vision.
Maynard is an accomplished selftaught artist with numerous solo exhibitions. She trained as a plant physiologist and in recent years has also run a couple of small community newspapers.
Maynard is a member of the artists’ cooperative at TAG in Frederick.
We recently caught up with Maynard to discuss her art.
When did you begin making art and when did you realize that you were an artist?
I made my first collages when I was six, cutting up seed catalogs. For years, I took photographs which served me well when I went to work for the family’s small-town newspaper.
When my husband and I were setting up our first house, we built furniture we couldn’t have afforded otherwise, and I was able to start sculpting wood. But when I realized you could add vibrant color by collaging paper onto wood, that’s when I got serious about making art.
How did you go from plant physiologist to running small community newspapers to artist?
My father changed careers late in life and opened a small newspaper in Brunswick, Maryland. He was having so much fun that he convinced us to move to Maryland and open a second newspaper. Putting together a newspaper is a form of collage.
How did you come to this unique technique of mixed-media collage art?
It feels like it was by accident — gluing down shiny bits of magazines turns out to be a very satisfying way to create beauty, as well as a sense of time accumulating. Layers upon layers, plus fugitive bits of text, help suggest complexities.
What is the central theme for your upcoming exhibit at TAG in May?
My theme is portals — doors, windows, entryways — and it plays off the dual meanings of the title, “Entrance.” I am showing silver gelatin prints, paper collage and a clutch of short videos.
Why “portals”? And what significance do portals hold?
Every time you enter a door you open yourself to new experience. Every time you open a window, new sounds and colors enter your life. Can you tell us about some of the new pieces you’re showing in this exhibit?
“Entrance (Red Maple)” is a digital
Courtesy
photo
“River Window,” by Julie Maynard.
print that shows a maple in my yard that has been cut and re-cut by utility linemen over the years — it is now more ghost than maple.
“River Window,” a mixed-media collage, looks out over the Potomac River through a frame left behind by flood waters. This piece uses beeswax to layer two laser-printed handcolored photographs.
“Entrance (Garden),” a photograph transferred onto wood with collage, shows the street entrance to one of those homes every neighborhood seems to have: the neglected one, the one no one has lived in for several years. Looking through it is like opening an old book to see what story is revealed.
“Porch (Perth, Ont.),” a gelatin silver print, is one of those subjects I can’t drive past without thinking, “How on earth did a front porch end up in a meadow? How did a window end up hanging over the Potomac?” — doors, windows and other bits of houses stranded in odd places.
What do you want viewers to glean from seeing this collection?
Art is what we look at, what we pick up, what we keep, what we use. I am using photographs from my earlier life, wax made by our bees and as many different techniques as I can to tell you what I’ve been thinking about.
What creative surprises should visitors expect to see at your TAG exhibit?
I’m hoping the room is darker than usual, so the video projections aren’t washed out. That means spotlighting the wall pieces with, hmmm, tiny spotlights? Fingers crossed.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
NOVELISTS
(Continued from 17)
Richman: We’re stronger together than we are separately. That is one of the messages of this book.
Lundberg: Writing this book, we never fought about anything. We just had a wonderful collaboration supporting each other. Sometimes when you look at the drama among women that is depicted in literature and film, it’s just too much. It’s not realistic.
Richman: And I think it really mirrors the creative process of De Fem. The three of us had such mutual respect for the talent and skill and the unique lens that we each brought to this project. Everyone brought something unique to create something that became far more powerful, interesting and beautiful with all three of us working together. I think the same can be seen about Hilma’s temple paintings — without the other four, they would never have been what they came to be.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Lundberg: Write! It’s the best job ever. Keep writing, because it takes time to be a good writer. In order to be a good writer, you have to practice. So I usually say, write a little every day.
Richman: I agree. Write a little every day, even if it’s just five sentences — eventually you’ll get to the end of your book. Also have a very strong belief that you have something that you want to share with the world.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Lundberg: We’re very thrilled to come to this event and to talk about it. We look forward to it.
Richman: I love that they’re building this special evening around a Friday night and that it will be filled with connectivity and creativity and conversation about art and connection. I think in today’s world this is so important — more than ever — to create not only connections and a learning environment, but also a sense of community.
It’s going to be a wonderful night to talk about [Hilma] and her journey and these other four women who all helped bring beauty and art and something spiritually awakening when you look at her paintings.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Erin Jones is a freelance arts and culture journalist, narrative strategist and literary collaborator. Learn more at erinjoneswriter.com, follow her on Instagram @ErinJonesWriter, or subscribe to her newsletter at erinjoneswriter.substack.com.
Frozen: The Musical — 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theater, 05 Willowtree Plaza #A1, Frederick. Princesses Anna and Elsa grow up sheltered inside their castle. When Elsa is crowned queen, the magical powers she’s desperately tried to conceal from her sister take control, and she flees into the mountains. As winter descends, Anna sets off on a journey to find Elsa and bring her home, with the help of hardworking ice harvester Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and a happy-golucky snowman named Olaf. $75. 301-662-6600. boxoffice@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.
FILM
“Eleanor the Great” (2025, PG-13) — 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. A Shepherdstown Film Society Selection. June Squibb brings to vivid life the witty and proudly troublesome 94-year-old Eleanor Morgenstein, who after a devastating loss, tells a tale that takes on a dangerous life of its own. Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut is a comically poignant exploration of how the stories we hear become the stories we tell. Post-film discussion. Admission is pay-what-you-can. 304-876-3704. Contact@OperaHouseLive.com. shepherdstownoperahouse.thundertix. com/events/256892.
Movie Knight — 7 p.m. at Vox House at 7th Sister, 228 N. Market St., Frederick. Falling Squares presents Movie Knight, a local filmmaker showcase featuring short films from around the DMV area and beyond every first Friday of the month. Enjoy food and beverages available for purchase and brought to your seat. Take part in discussions with our Q&A segments after each short film and join the growing community of creatives. Limited seating, RSVP required. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts around 7:30 p.m. fallingsquares@gmail.com. linktr.ee/movieknight.
“Eleanor the Great” (2025, PG-13) — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. June Squibb brings to vivid life the witty and proudly troublesome 94-year-old Eleanor Morgenstein, who after a devastating loss, tells a tale that takes on a dangerous life of its own. Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut. 304-876-3704. Contact@OperaHouseLive.com. OperaHouseLive.com.
GALLERY
Spring Bloom Art/Garden Pop-Up — 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Give Rise Studio , 125 S. Carroll St. , Suite 101, Frederick. A garden themed pop-up event, showcasing local, women creatives, sharing and selling their wares. Garden themed decor, mixed media, digital abstract fine art images, watercolor, acrylic art, handcrafted jewelry, up cycled garden themed decor, gifts, herbs, garden items. RSVP. 301-6418868. szemerephoto@gmail.com.
Do you want to eat more locally produced food while supporting your regional economy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions? Buying directly from the producers, farmers and processors in your community is a smart choice, not just this summer but all year round.
CELEBRATE LOCAL FLAVORS
Summer invites you to explore and enjoy the local offerings all around you. Discover the finest tastes in your area and connect with organic food producers and artisans. From juicy heirloom tomatoes and succulent berries to craft beers and local honey, each visit to a farmers’ market is a chance to delight your taste buds and meet the passionate people behind these exceptional products.
FUN FOR EVERYONE
Farmers’ markets are more than just a place to shop; they’re lively community hubs. Many host exciting events throughout the summer, such as live music, hands-on workshops, cooking demonstrations and tastings. These gatherings create an atmosphere of celebration, bringing people of all ages together to support local businesses and forge connections.
SHOWCASING EXPERTISE
Farmers’ markets offer countless benefits: they support young farmers, energize communi -
ties and help people reconnect with their food. Behind the colourful stalls filled with fruits, vegetables, meats and other delicacies stand inspiring individuals. These dedicated farmers and artisans cultivate, process and share more than just food; they embody the land, culture and values of their communities.
Whether you’re at home or vacationing in a different region this summer, visit a farmers’ market and discover the best offerings the community has to offer. Seek out local growers and indulge in fresh, delicious products that celebrate your community.
MUSIC
Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man” in Concert — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Jack B. Kussmaul Theater at Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Featuring the Frederick Catoctones as special guests. Willson’s rousing score comes to life as the CASF and Catoctones join forces to close out the season with a bang from this well-loved musical. Whether you’ve got trouble, a quarrelsome librarian or just a rambunctious 10-yearold who loves to shop in your life, you will discover the best way to experience all three through the beloved sounds of this Broadway smash. Family friendly and fabulous fun!
“Josie & Grace: A Mostly Historical Cabaret Dream Play — 7:30 p.m. at Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg, Pa. Also at 3 and 7:30 p.m. May 2, and 3 p.m. May 3. This new musical explores the story of the extraordinary friendship between two of the most remarkable women of the 20th century: legendary singer, dancer, activist and spy, Josephine Baker, and Academy Award-winner, and Princess, Grace Kelly. This “mostly historical cabaret dream play” is based on what is known of the close relationship between these two extraordinary women. See website for ticket options. 717-337-8200.
gettysburgmajestic.org.
The Comedy Pigs at MET Comedy Night — 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s Key Stage, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join MET’s longest running improv team, The Comedy Pigs, for a night full of laughs! The Comedy Pigs perform on the first Friday and Saturday of each month. The Comedy Pigs specialize in short-form improv, similar to what you’d see on the TV Show “Whose Line is it Anyway?” $15. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org.
ci.ovationtix.com/35900/production/1250427.
Saturday May 2 CLASSES
Growing Up Wild (GUW) — 9 a.m. to noon at University of Maryland Extension Office, 330 Montevue Lane, Frederick. For educators who work with children 3 to 7 years old. Adults only. Pre-registration required. GUW prepares educators to teach young children by building on their sense of wonder about nature through a wide range of activities and experiences. See https:// bit.ly/FishWildlifeGrowingWild for details. Participants will receive a certificate, a guide, and (if needed) approved credits. 21 and older. 301-600-1596. arembold@umd.edu. tinyurl.com/MG26GrowingUpWild.
Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony: A Cultural & Sensory Experience — 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at The Common Market Co-op, 5728
Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. A traditional cultural ritual centered on hospitality, aroma and community. Participants will learn about the origins of coffee in Ethiopia while observing the traditional roasting and brewing process from green beans to the final pour. The ceremony invites mindful presence through sight, sound and scent, emphasizing coffee as a shared cultural experience rather than a quick beverage. Attendees will enjoy a guided tasting of freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee and leave with a deeper appreciation for coffee’s cultural roots.
Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony: A Cultural & Sensory Experience — 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Common Market, 5728 Buckeystown Pike Unit A, Frederick. A traditional cultural ritual centered on hospitality, aroma and community. Participants will learn about the origins of coffee in Ethiopia while observing the traditional roasting and brewing process from green beans to the final pour. Attendees will enjoy a guided tasting of freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee and leave with a deeper appreciation for coffee’s cultural roots.
Mindfulness in The Garden — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at University of Maryland Extension Office, 330 Montevue Lane, Frederick. Experience the healing power of the garden and plants. We will discuss the benefits of nature to your well-being; take a walk in the meditation garden for mindfulness activities; learn about mala beads; and make a mala bracelet to take home. 301-600-1596. arembold@umd.edu. tinyurl.com/MG26Mindfulness.
America250 — Maryland Cooking: Cookbooks & Recipes from MD’s Past — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Are you curious about the origins of Smith Island Cake, crab soup, and Maryland fried chicken? We will explore a historical collection of Maryland cookbooks, and search for early examples of your favorite Maryland recipes. We will also discuss blogs about the history of cooking, digital collections of historic cookbooks, and other online resources. Whether you are searching for that elusive recipe or you’re just interested in local history, this program is perfect to learn about the history of Maryland cooking. 18 and older. 301-600-6329. TStevens@FrederickCountyMD.gov. www.fcpl.org/.
ETCETERA
Plant Swap — 9 a.m. at Watkins Park, 615 Center St., Mount Airy. Did you grow too many of a certain type of plant and want to share with other plant lovers? Or are you just looking for more of a variety in your garden? Bring your extra plants to the Plant Swap, co-hosted by the Town of Mount Airy and Frederick Plant and Seed. No regis-
tration is required and the event is rain or shine. The swap will be starting promptly at 9 a.m. If you’re bringing plants, please plan to arrive around 8:30 a.m. to allow time for setup. Everyone is welcome to attend. Even if you don’t have plants to bring, there will be free plants available to take. mountairymd.gov.
Inside the Farms of Monocacy — 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Monocacy National Battlefield, 5201 Urbana Pike, Frederick. The Battle of Monocacy was fought amongst the farms, fields and forests along the Monocacy River on July 9, 1864. Each of the farms, and the people who lived on them, were impacted by the battle. Join Monocacy National Battlefield Rangers and volunteers and explore two of these farms. Meet at Best Farm, tour stop #1 on Monocacy National Battlefield at 9 a.m. to learn the long legacy of the Best Farm — far beyond the Civil War. Then join the ranger staff at the Worthington Farm by 11 a.m. for the tour of this farm and its importance to the history of the campaign and the establishment of Monocacy National Battlefield itself. Space is limited at both farms, reservations required. 301-662-3515. mono_mail@nps.gov.
Myersville Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Municipal Parking Lot, 301 Main St., Myersville. This market shares in the celebration of local products, fresh foods, and community. Saturdays through Oct. 31. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.
Visit the National Road Museum and Trolley Station Museum — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at National Road Museum, 214 N. Main St., Boonsboro. Explore the history both the Historic National Road and the trolleys of central Maryland through this two-museum experience in Boonsboro! Donations appreciated. 240-769-0898. Director@NationalRdFoundation.org. nationalrdfoundation.org.
Frederick Farmers Market (new location!) — 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Westside Regional Park, 632 Contender Way, Frederick. frederickfarmersmarket.com.
Foundations of Frederick Walking Tour — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Experience the history and beauty of downtown as knowledgeable guides share the fascinating stories that make up historic Frederick. 90-minute tours start at the Museum of Frederick County History, 24 E. Church St. Reservations required. $5 to $12. 410-707-1105. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org. www.cognitoforms.com/HeritageFrederick1/WalkingTourTicketReservation.
Stone Tools Demonstration — 11 a.m. to noon at Watkins Park , 615 Center St., Mount Airy. Humankind is the only animal on the planet which needs tools to survive. How did this happen? See for yourself with evolutionary anthropologist Mason Hintermeister, as he makes replicas of some of the most enduring forms of technology on the planet: stone tools. Learn about our earliest ancestors, the tools they left behind, and how studying them has changed the way we think about what it means to be human. Bring a lawn chair and join
this outdoor conversation and stone tool demonstration.
301-829-1424. nhernandez@mountairymd. gov.
www.mountairymd.gov.
Plant Swap - Leave a plant, Take a Plant — 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Join us for a Plant Swap! Bring a plant to trade with another plant. This is a great way to increase your variety of plants. We will have houseplants, vegetables and flowers. 301-600-6329. TStevens@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
www.fcpl.org/.
“Seeds of Change Gala: An Evening of Growth, Healing & Transformation” — 5 p.m. at Caboose Farm, 14754 Manahan Road, Sabillasville. Amplified Change’s first gala. VIP happy hour at 5 p.m. Gourmet dinner and dancing under the stars. Silent and live auctions. Support rograms that empower youth, strengthen families, and create lasting generational change. RSVP required.
$150. 240-626-6639. jennifer@nevermoreevents.com.
amplifiedchange.org/gala/.
LIVE MUSIC! Jack Funk & Brother Rust — 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Sandbox Brewhouse, 880 N. East St., Frederick. In a taproom far, far away ....strap in for a ride through melodies, riffs and licks with standout jam rockers Jack Funk and groove-rock cowboys Brother Rust! 21 and older with ID to drink.
$10 at the door, $5 discount for tickets online.
www.facebook.com/share/1CZvybGTVP/.
May Contra Dance — 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Shepherdstown Community Club, 102 E. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. Contra dance with a fine variety of dances to the music of Terpsichore. New dancers and rusty ones are encouraged to be here promptly, the dance starts at 7:30, and we start the evening with simpler dances to review the basics and flow seamlessly into our evening dance. Dancers of all abilities are welcome, no partner is necessary. $15 nonmembers, $12 members (cash or check). 304-263-2531. upperpotomac@ gmail.com.
Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Frederick. Take a remarkable journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge. True documented stories of the “paranormal” with “Maryland’s Oldest Operating Ghost Tour!” Reservations recommended. $17 adult.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Maryland Walk 2026 — 8 a.m. at Thurmont Carnival Grounds , 123 E. Main St., Thurmont. Part of the nation’s largest mental health awareness event series and brings together families, advocates, partners, and community leaders who believe mental health matters. Register online.
“Junie B. Jones The Musical” — 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theater, 05 Willowtree Plaza #A1, Frederick. Theater For Young Audiences (Ages 3 and up). It’s Junie B.’s first day of first grade, and a lot of things have changed for her: Junie’s friend, Lucille, doesn’t want to be her best pal anymore and, on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. Also, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard and her teacher, Mr. Scary, thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal,” and first grade has never been more exciting.
Arthur and Friends Make a Musical! — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Mr. Ratburn’s class is putting on a show — but Arthur’s not so sure he’s ready! With help from his family and friends, Arthur learns that being yourself is the best part of any performance. A fun, feel-good musical for the whole family!
Print Day in May — noon to 6 p.m. at Frederick Book Arts Center, 127 S. Carroll St., Frederick. An international celebration
of printing! Learn about printmaking in all its forms, across 160 years of industrial innovation and artistic expression. Meet our talented community of local artists and teachers who will show you how printing equipment pioneered the production of its time, and how it continues to serve us today.
First Saturday Craft — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Join your friends at the Bear for a free craft to celebrate First Saturday using some of our favorite art supplies. Parent supervision is required. 301-631-9300. info@dbeartoys.com. dbeartoys.com/events/.
Explore Frederick’s Oldest House — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Travel back to colonial Frederick. Built in 1758 by German settlers, this sturdy stone farmhouse offers a glimpse of early American life before the American Revolution. Walk through thick-walled but spacious rooms, hear stories of early immigrants, and see how a Frederick County farm family lived more than two and a half centuries ago.
$8 over age 15. 301-456-4912. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.
May Creative Outlet — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Kids and their adults are invited
to drop-in and get creative together in our family open studio to create an artist-inspired project! Design a unique fish to contribute to our interactive gallery project, led by Jamie Gerhold. Free, but donations encouraged. 301-698-0656. jclark@delaplaine.org. delaplaine.org/event/creative-outlet-05/.
Frozen: The Musical — 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theater, 05 Willowtree Plaza #A1, Frederick. Princesses Anna and Elsa grow up sheltered inside their castle. When Elsa is crowned queen, the magical powers she’s desperately tried to conceal from her sister take control, and she flees into the mountains. As winter descends, Anna sets off on a journey to find Elsa and bring her home, with the help of hardworking ice harvester Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and a happy-go-lucky snowman named Olaf. $75. 301-662-6600. boxoffice@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.
FESTIVALS
Frederick County Veterans Appreciation Day: Honoring Veterans, Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom — 9 a.m. to noon at Frederick Health Village, 1 Frederick Health Way, Frederick. Hosted by the Frederick County Division of Aging and Independence and the Frederick County Veterans Advisory Council. This free community event features a Veterans resource fair, a career fair hosted by the Frederick County Division of Human Resources, a dedication ceremony for Veterans and Service Members, a puppy-naming ceremony sponsored by Warrior Canine Connection.
WFMD will broadcast live from the event, and music and entertainment will be provided by DJ Cruzin’ Chris Michaels. 301-600-1234. DAIVetEvent@FrederickCountyMD.gov. www.frederickcountymd.gov/vad.
Pop Up On Penn — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 34 W. Pennsylvania Ave., 34 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville. The Walkersville Economic Development Commission (EDC) hosts this local business pop-up shop event. It aligns with the opening day of the Walkersville Southern Railroad, serving as an inspiring promotional opportunity for our vibrant community and all who visit.
Claire’s Place — A Weekend With Claire — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Claire’s Place, along Carroll Creek, Frederick. Also May 3. Claire McCardell called Frederick home, and it is in Frederick where she is commemorated as a female who changed the way women dress. She was the fashion designer who added pockets to dresses, practical pockets, making women’s attire ever so much more pragmatic. At the foot of Claire’s statue, attendees will be treated to presentations about McCardell’s life and legacy, the creation of the sculpture, and a sharing of the children’s book, “Claire-the little girl who climbed to the top and changed the way women dress,” written by Debra Scala Giokas and illustrated by Frederick Art Club member, Mary Ryan Reeves. The sharing at the statue will take place both days at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. maritasloose@gmail.com. www.frederickartclub.com/maryland250.
GALLERY
Art Matters Artist Talk: National Juried Exhibition Juror Kyle Hackett — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Kyle will describe his work as an artist and art educator and present this year’s award winners. 301-698-0656. jclark@delaplaine.org. delaplaine.org/event/art-matters-artisttalk-05/.
Exhibition Openings: National Juried Exhibition & Solo Artists — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. View exhibitions and meet the artists! These exhibitions are opening on Saturday, May 2, and can be viewed starting at 9 a.m. Beat the crowds and visit us earlier in the day! Saturday, May 2 • 3–5 pm FREE 301-698-0656. jclark@delaplaine.org. delaplaine.org/event/exhibition-openings-5/.
MUSIC
Frederick Ukulele Jam! — noon to 2 p.m. at Common Market Co-op, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. Join the monthly group ukulele jam on the first Saturday of each month! Bring your ukulele, a few copies of some songs you might like to play, and/or an ipad/ tablet. We will take turns leading and suggesting songs for the group to play, songs can be of any genre. All ability levels and ages welcome! jeanne.rhodes@icloud.com. www.commonmarket.coop/classes-events/ frederick-ukulele-jam-5-3/2026-05-02/.
Run For The Roses - Derby Day with Music by Mike Kuster — 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at The Barn Resort, 75 Cunningham Road, Gettysburg, Pa. The Barn Resort is the place to be for the best Kentucky Derby watch party! Mike Kuster will be performing live country cusic to celebrate Derby Day! 717-334-8000. cindy@thebarnresortpa.com.
Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man” in Concert — 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Jack B. Kussmaul Theater at Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Featuring the Frederick Catoctones as special guests. Willson’s rousing score comes to life as the CASF and Catoctones join forces to close out the season with a bang from this well-loved musical. Whether you’ve got trouble, a quarrelsome librarian or just a rambunctious 10-year-old who loves to shop in your life, you will discover the best way to experience all three through the beloved sounds of this Broadway smash. Family friendly and fabulous fun! $15. tickets@casof.org. casof.org/tickets/?utm_source=fnp&utm_ medium=web&utm_campaign=musicman2026&utm_content=event.
Pines of Rome: A Musical Voyage — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. The 2025/2026 concert season draws to a close with an exhilarating musical voyage across continents, cultures and soundscapes. $40. 301-797-4000. nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org.
OUTDOORS
Around the Community: Bird Walk at Brunswick Crossing — 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
at Brunswick Crossing Welcome Center, 1000 Potomac View Parkway, Brunswick. Grab your binoculars and join Bird City Brunswick for a bird walk through Brunswick Crossing. Meet at the trail that starts by the welcome center at 1000 Potomac View Parkway. All ages. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/ around-community-bird-walk-186536.
THEATER
Frederick Playwrights Circle — 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 West Patrick St., Frederick. A safe place for playwrights at all career levels to share and discuss their work. A positive, supportive environment for theatre storytellers seeking community. Meets biweekly. 301-694-4744. fredplaywrights@gmail.com.
LIVE Series: “Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’®” — 8 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Also at 2 p.m. A hilarious and heartfelt sequel, taking audiences on a highseas adventure filled with hot flashes, mood swings, and the enduring power of friendship. 18 and older. $45, $40, $35. 301-600-2868. dyoung@ cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/menopause-themusical-2-cruising-through-the-change/. The Comedy Pigs at MET Comedy Night — 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s Key Stage, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join MET’s longest running improv team, The Comedy Pigs, for a night full of laughs! The Comedy Pigs perform on the first Friday and Saturday of each month. The Comedy Pigs specialize in short-form improv, similar to what you’d see on the TV Show “Whose Line is it Anyway?”
$15. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org.
Sunday May 3
CLASSES
Herbal Allies: A Hands-On Herbal Learning Series — 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fox Haven Farm & Retreat Center, 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson. In Herbal Allies, we take the time to meet one plant at a time — observing where it grows, noticing its scents and flavors, and exploring how it moves through our lives. Each of the six sessions is a chance to connect with plants and people through shared curiosity and hands-on practice. See website for schedule of classes and to register.
Pollinator Gardens — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join Tiger Waddell from the Frederick County Master Gardeners to learn about the beauty and benefits of pollinator gardens. There will be seeds, samples and tips to start your own this spring! This program is intended for adults. 21 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.
“The Blink of An Eye”— 50 Years of Making Music in Frederick County — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St.,
Frederick. Learn about one local musician’s journey as a “sideman” in Frederick County! Billy Lebherz has played across genres, including rock, folk, country, acid rock and more in bands that have spanned over decades. Billy will share his experiences as music has evolved for him over the years, from the perspective of a musician who has always been in collaboration. There will be time at the end to ask questions! 301-600-1368. mmannix@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/blinkeye-50-years-making-music-frederick-county-196692.
ETCETERA
The Frederick City Market — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Parking lot , 622 N. Market St., Frederick. Farmers and Artisans market. Real Food, Real Farmers and Local Artisans. A Frederick favorite since 2011! 240-291-8254. Info@frederickcitymarket.com. www.frederickcitymarket.com.
Duplicate Bridge Team Games — noon to 4 p.m. at YMCA of Frederick County , 1000 N. Market St., Frederick. Bridge is also a team event! Frederick Bridge Club offers the only ACBL sanctioned team games in the area on the first and third Sundays of the month. Please contact the director, Jim Cartlidge, at 301-606-2894, or at jacartlidge@comcast.net to reserve a table for your team or to join a team. $10. 301-606-2894. jacartlidge@comcast.net. www.bridgewebs.com/frederick/home.html.
One Vast Hospital: Downtown Frederick Walking Tour — noon to 1 p.m. at National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Downtown Frederick history is hidden around every corner. Explore downtown Frederick’s storied past with signature walking tours from the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. Every Saturday and Sunday from April through September, walking tours of Frederick’s hospital sites will be available at 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays and noon on Sundays. Walking tours last for an hour to an hour and a half. $15. 301-695-1864. melissa.winn@civilwarmed.org. civilwarmed.org/walking.
Lodi — 5 p.m. to 8:05 p.m. at Cactus Flats, 10026 Hansonville Road, Frederick. Country music.
FAMILY
Downtown Artwalk: Cynthia Corro of Lunniaya — noon to 4 p.m. at Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Take a self-guided stroll downtown and visit its many local galleries! At the Delaplaine, Cynthia Corro of Lunniaya will feature whimsical mixed media art and jewelry. 301-698-0656. jclark@delaplaine.org. delaplaine.org/event/artwalk05/.
Arthur and Friends Make a Musical! — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Mr. Ratburn’s class is putting on a show — but Arthur’s not so sure he’s ready! With help from his family and friends, Arthur learns that being yourself is the best part of any performance. A fun, feel-good musical for the whole family!
Explore Frederick’s Oldest House — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Travel back to colonial Frederick. Built in 1758 by German settlers, this sturdy stone farmhouse offers a glimpse of early American life before the American Revolution. Walk through thick-walled but spacious rooms, hear stories of early immigrants, and see how a Frederick County farm family lived more than two and a half centuries ago. $8 over age 15. 301-456-4912. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.
FILM
“All the President’s Men” (1976, PG) — 50th Anniversary Screening — 3 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. at Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. Mark the 50th anniversary of the release of this acclaimed journalistic drama based on the reporting of Washington Post journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, whose investigation helped uncover the Watergate scandal and led to President Nixon’s resignation. Cast: Robert Redford, Dustin Hoffman, Jason Robards, Jack Warden, Martin Balsam. Post-film discussion.
Optional: Embrace the 1970s D.C. spirit by wearing the D.C. style of 1970s. Admission is pay-what-you-can, $10 suggested. Doors open 2:30 p.m., snacks available for purchase.
“Different Drummer,” Art Exhibit by Ted Luck — 12:45 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. Opening on May 3 with a reception from 12:45-2 p.m Exhibit continues through June 28. Call 301-473-7680 or email gallery@frederickuu.org for gallery hours or to request an appointment to view the show. 301-473-7680. bagallerypublicity@gmail. com. frederickuu.org/gallery.
Frozen: The Musical — 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theater, 05 Willowtree Plaza #A1, Frederick. Princesses Anna and Elsa grow up sheltered inside their castle. When Elsa is crowned queen, the magical powers she’s desperately tried to conceal from her sister take control, and she flees into the mountains. As winter descends, Anna sets off on a journey to find Elsa and bring her home, with the help of hardworking ice harvester Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and a happy-go-lucky snowman named Olaf.
IN DOWNTOWN FREDERICK
First Saturday is a day to show your love for local, with shops, restaurants, and galleries offering special events and one-of-a-kind experiences. This month, follow the pet-friendly trail through downtown to discover adoptable animals, treats and surprises. Come to shop, explore and maybe even meet your new best friend.
