Sports fans, foodies, bookworms and movie buffs all have a reason to circle their calendars for the upcoming Frederick Speaker Series season, running February through May 2027 at the Weinberg Center for the Arts. Two-time Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion Mia Hamm kicks things off on Feb. 4, followed by “Man v. Food” host Adam Richman on March 4, New York Times bestselling author Virginia Evans on April 14 and actor and SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin closing out the series May 6. All four talks start at 7:30 p.m., with tickets starting at $35. Weinberg Center members get first crack at tickets Aug. 13, and the general public can buy them starting Aug. 20 at weinbergcenter.org.
SCULPTOR TOBY MENDEZ TALKS PUBLIC ART
Sculptor Antonio “Toby” Mendez will share stories behind more than 40 years of public art during a talk from 7 to 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at the National Road Museum in Boonsboro. Mendez, known for larger-than-life brass sculptures across the country and locally recognized for pieces in Hagerstown, Frederick and beyond, will discuss creating the six player sculptures outside Camden Yards for the Baltimore Orioles, dedicated in 2012; the Clara Barton memorial unveiled at Hagerstown’s Park Circle in 2024; and his upcoming George Washington sculpture set to debut in September as part of Washington County’s 250th anniversary celebration. Tickets are free, though donations are welcome, and RSVPs are required at nationalrdfoundation.org.
500 BLACK-EYED SUSANS BLOOM AT FREDERICK CITY HALL
Frederick City Hall’s front lawn is having a moment thanks to artist Lusmerlin Lantigua, who was selected through a Frederick Arts Council competition to reimagine Maryland’s state flower on a grand scale. The result: 500 individually crafted metal black-eyed Susans — 10 for each year of the arts council’s 50-year history — now on display at 101 N. Court St., Frederick, through early October. City Hall is the fourth stop for the traveling installation, which has already visited the Y Arts Center, Winchester Hall and the Visitation Hotel as part of the arts council’s yearlong 50th anniversary celebration. Once the tour wraps at year’s end, individual flowers will be sold for $40 apiece, with preorders available now at givebutter.com.
FREE MUSIC FESTIVAL IN THURMONT
The GreenSpring Music Festival will return to Thurmont from Aug. 9 to 15, bringing free classical performances to historic churches and other venues throughout the week. The week includes faculty and solo concerts, chamber music performances and two lunchtime concerts with complimentary lunches, wrapping up with a closing celebration at Links Bridge Vineyards in Thurmont on Aug. 15. All events are free, though the vineyard celebration requires a reservation. See greenspringmusic.org/greenspringfestivalschedule for the full lineup and times.
HIKE SOUTH MOUNTAIN AND LEARN ITS SECRETS
South Mountain is part of the oldest mountain range in North America, and a guided hike this month digs into how people have shaped, and been shaped by, that history. Interpreting South Mountain is a beginner-friendly hike of about 0.6 miles on a wooded trail, exploring what the mountain’s past can reveal about the present and future. Meet at the War Correspondents Arch in Gathland State Park, 900 Arnoldstown Road, Burkittsville, at 10 a.m. Aug. 11.
PORCH CONCERT IN HARPERS FERRY
No tickets, no formalities, just music spilling into the neighborhood. The Appalachian Chamber Music Festival’s new Porch Concert Series pairs ACMF musicians with local talent for pop-up performances around Harpers Ferry, and this stop features violist Danielle Wiebe-Burke and bassist Sam Suggs at Bolivar Bread Bakery on Aug. 7.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Share your community stories and events with us! Email 72 Hours editor Lauren LaRocca at llarocca@newspost.com.
Meet Bob & Freddie. When it comes to local businesses, businesspeople and organizations in Frederick, they know best. Here is a personal interview with a 2025 Best of the Best winner or finalist about why they love what they do, helping those they serve and working in Frederick.
Cathi Miller, Hagan Realty
WHEN DID YOUR BUSINESS OPEN?
I began my career as a real estate paralegal in 1985 and have spent more than three decades working behind the scenes on thousands of transactions. During that time, I discovered that what I enjoyed most wasn’t just the legal side of the process; it was helping clients understand it.
Becoming a Real Estate Broker gave me the opportunity to work directly with buyers and sellers, answer their questions, explain the details in plain language, and help them make informed decisions with confidence.
WHAT MAKES FREDERICK COUNTY A GREAT PLACE TO DO BUSINESS?
Frederick County has a way of making people feel at home. From our small towns to our growing communities, people love supporting local businesses; they look out for their neighbors, and value relationships in Frederick County.
Growing up in Emmitsburg and now living in Thurmont has given me a deep appreciation for this community and the people who call it home. I feel fortunate to live here, volunteer here, and help families through some of the most important milestones in their lives.
There’s no place I’d rather call home.
WHAT SETS YOUR BUSINESS APART?
Every client has a different story, which is why I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Sometimes people need answers, and that is why I am licensed in Maryland, Pennsylvania, DC, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Whether someone is buying their first home, selling a home they’ve loved for decades, relocating, or helping a family member through
a major life transition, they deserve someone who takes the time to listen. Sometimes people need answers and reassurance, and sometimes they need someone who genuinely cares.
I believe buying or selling a home is about much more than paperwork and deadlines. It’s about helping people through an important chapter in their lives with honest communication, practical guidance, and a little humor when it’s needed. If I can make the process less stressful and help my clients feel informed, supported, and confident in their decisions, then I have done my job. This is what sets me apart from others.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOUR BUSINESS IN FIVE YEARS?
I hope each year will build on the one before it, not just by growing my business, but by growing the opportunities I have to educate and work with others.
I enjoy helping people understand what can often feel like an overwhelming process. I would love to continue expanding educational programs for seniors, first-time buyers, and anyone looking for real estate guidance. Helping clients will always be at the heart of what I do and has been the top of my core values, but I also hope to mentor the next generation of real estate professionals.
Playa Bowls plans two more Frederick County locations
BY OLIVER MACK omack@newspost.com
Playa Bowls plans to open two more Frederick County locations within the next year.
A location at Westview Promenade, 5251 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, is scheduled to open in December. An Urbana location at 3531 John Simmons St., Suite D09, Frederick, is expected to open in early 2027.
The açaí bowl, smoothie and juice shops will become the chain’s second and third locations in Frederick County, joining the existing shop in the Clemson Corner shopping center on Wormans Mill Road.
“The county is growing,” said Gene Sherman, who owns the franchises for all three locations. “I really wanted to make it accessible for ... everybody in the county to have convenient access.”
The chain says its products are made fresh to order with fresh fruits and vegetables and without dyes or chemicals, according to a July 29 press release announcing the Westview location.
Sherman, who lives in Frederick and previously owned two Anytime Fitness locations, said he plans to open two additional Playa Bowls locations in either Washington or Carroll county after the two new Frederick County shops open.
Each new location will create one full-time store manager position and about 20 to 30 part-time positions, which Sherman expects will mostly be filled by high school students.
“That’s the twofold: healthier options in Frederick, more healthier options, and then ... working with high schools on job opportunities for kids and maybe helping them prepare for college or prepare for their next job,” Sherman said.
Sherman signed a lease with Hill Management Services Inc. for 1,226 square feet of space in Westview Promenade. He said he hopes to apply for permits for the location in the coming weeks and expects the permitting process to take about eight weeks.
Playa Bowls has more than 400
COMING SOON
Playa Bowls plans to open at 5251 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, in December and at 3531 John Simmons St., Suite D09, Frederick, in early 2027. Its existing Frederick shop is at 7820 Wormans Mill Road. Visit playabowls.com for updates.
locations nationwide, according to its website.
“Consumers are paying more attention to what they consume and the ingredients and processes utilized in food preparation,”
Danielle Beyrodt, vice president and chief operating officer of Hill Management Services, said in the release. “We are confident that Playa Bowls’ selection of açaí bowls, smoothies, and juices will be immediately embraced by the Frederick community.”
The Pure Vida Acai Bowl with Nutella and mango.
Staff photo by Ric Dugan
The interior of Playa Bowl at Clemson Corner on Wormans Mill Road.
Frederick Speaker Series announces 2027 lineup
Soccer champion Mia Hamm, television personality Adam Richman, author Virginia Evans and actor Sean Astin will headline the 14th season of the Frederick Speaker Series at the Weinberg Center for the Arts.
The series will run from February through May 2027, with all four speakers appearing at 7:30 p.m.
MIA HAMM
Hamm, a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, will open the series Feb. 4. Hamm retired from professional soccer in 2004 after a 17-year career with the U.S. women’s national team.
She finished her international career with 158 goals and 144 assists and has remained an influential figure in women’s sports.
Tickets start at $50. The event is sponsored by PNC Bank.
ADAM RICHMAN
Richman, a food enthusiast and television personality best known as the host of “Man v. Food,” will appear March 4.
The Brooklyn native has also hosted “Secret Eats with Adam Richman,” “Man v. Food Nation,” “Adam Richman’s Best Sandwich in America,” “Fandemonium” and the NBC food competition series “Food Fighters.”
Richman is the author of “America the Edible,” which chronicles his culinary travels across the United States, and the cookbook “Straight Up Tasty,” featuring globally inspired comfort foods.
Tickets start at $35.
VIRGINIA EVANS
The novel won the 2026 PEN/ Hemingway Award for Debut Novel, the inaugural James Patterson & Bookshop.org Prize and the Indies Choice Book Award for Adult Fiction.
Evans earned a bachelor’s degree in English literature from James Madison University and a master’s degree in creative writing from Trinity College Dublin.
Tickets start at $35.
SEAN ASTIN
Evans, author of the No. 1 New York Times bestselling novel “The Correspondent,” will appear April 14. Told through letters and emails, “The Correspondent” follows Sybil Van Antwerp as she reflects on her life, relationships and past while coping with the loss of her sight.
Astin, an actor and mental health advocate known for his roles in “The Goonies,” “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy and “Stranger Things,” will close the series May 6. Astin was elected president of SAG-AFTRA in September 2025 after serving on the union’s national and Los Angeles local boards and several committees.
Beyond his acting and union work, he advocates for mental health awareness, literacy and civic engagement.
Tickets start at $50. The event is sponsored by the Delaplaine Foundation Inc.
Tickets will go on sale to Weinberg Center members Aug. 13 and to
the public Aug. 20. Tickets may be purchased at weinbergcenter.org, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828 or in person at the Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. A complete listing of performances in the Weinberg Center and New Spire Arts’ 2026-27 season is available at weinbergcenter.org.
File photo by Lauren LaRocca
The Weinberg Center in downtown Frederick.
Adam Richman
Sean Astin
Virginia Evans
Mia Hamm
The Frederick Mom’s recommendations for the weekend of Aug 7
Activities to do with the kids this weekend, courtesy of The Frederick Mom.
Dolly the Polka Dotted Llama
Noon Aug. 7
Dance Unlimited, 244B S. Jefferson St., Frederick Free
Join the talented actors at Dance Unlimited for a free, familyfriendly show that celebrates what makes us unique. You’ll meet Dolly, a one-of-a-kind llama learning to embrace her vibrant polka dots among the zoo animals. This heartwarming live theater event offers a fun and inspiring message of acceptance for kids of all ages. See this delightful children’s performance Friday! Learn more at danceunlimitedfrederick.com.
K-Pop Celebration
2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 7
Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick Free
Preteens and teens ages 11 to 18 are invited to the Urbana Regional Library this Friday afternoon to celebrate the excitement of K-Pop culture with song, dance, games and crafts! If your preteen or teen is interested in the popular music genre originating in South Korea, tell them about this free event.
Family Night in the Park & Movie
7 to 10 p.m. Aug. 7
Greenleaf Park, 1950 E. Greenleaf Drive, Frederick Free
Enjoy the end of summer with the Family Night in the Park & Movie series! This installment features “Lilo & Stitch.” The event begins at 7 p.m., and the movie will begin at dusk. Activities will include backyard games, sports, arts and crafts. Come spend time with your family and meet other local families! Any weatherrelated cancellations will be decided by 2 p.m. on the day of the event and announced at 301-600-6972 and on social media at @fredcityparksrec. The next dates in the series are Aug. 14, 21 and 28.
Pins & Pancakes
9 a.m. to noon Aug. 8 and 9 Fourth Dimension Fun Center, 4725 Arcadia Drive, Frederick $15 per person
On Saturdays and Sundays, 4D
miniature garden to take home! Plants and decorations are provided, but bring your kids’ little gardening gloves. Preregistration is required because the class is limited to 15 children, who must be accompanied by an adult. The class is free for children. Adults may plant their own mini-garden for $5; note it on the registration and pay by cash or check at the class. Doors open 30 minutes before the start time. In the event of inclement weather, check the Frederick County Master Gardeners Facebook page.
Kidcreate Studio’s Grand Opening
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 8
Kidcreate Studio, 4714 Arcadia Drive, Suite 130, Frederick Free
Check out Frederick’s newest art and science studio for kids ages 4 to 12! The community is invited this Saturday morning to celebrate the grand opening of Kidcreate Studio Frederick. Bring the whole family for a free morning of creativity, exploration and fun, including handson art, science and sensory stations. There are chances to win free camps, birthday parties and more! Whether your child loves painting, experimenting, building or getting a little messy, you’ll love stopping by Kidcreate.
Climbing for a Cause Summer Festival
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 8
Tree Trekkers, 9560 Old National Pike, Frederick
offers unlimited bowling and allyou-can-eat pancakes. I can’t think of anything cooler to do with the whole family. After bowling and breakfast, waddle over to the arcade section and enjoy everything else that 4D has to offer! The price includes shoe rental, with a minimum of two people per lane. Learn more at 4dfun.com.
Mini & Me: Crafting
10 to 11 a.m. Aug. 8
William R. Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick $6/city resident; $10/non-city resident
Little ones ages 3 to 6, grab your favorite grown-up and get ready for
a summer of Mini & Me Crafting! It’s an hour of fruit stamping — how cute! The City of Frederick’s Parks and Recreation Department is bringing back the ‘90s with this throwback DIY class, creating a fun project with food. Join in for some awesome one-on-one fun and a whole lot of creativity! Register at playfrederick. com.
Make & Take Mini-Garden
10 a.m. to noon Aug. 8
University of Maryland Extension Office, 330 Montevue Lane, Frederick Free
Students in grades one through 12 can design and plant a decorated
$67/climber; $5/non-climber Tree Trekkers is putting the “fun” in fundraising! Climbing for a Cause is its annual fundraiser benefiting the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life in Frederick County. Spend the day climbing through obstacle courses in the trees, eating, shopping, playing and enjoying music — all while supporting an amazing cause. Food trucks will be on-site. You can enter a cornhole tournament for $20 per team and buy $1 raffle tickets for a chance to win awesome prizes! This is outdoor fun for the whole family! Climbing tickets include access to all 16 Timber Trek trails, and the experience is recommended for ages 8 and up. Event admission for nonclimbers is $5. Tickets are available at treetrekkersmd.com.
Mount Tabor Church Big Picnic 2 to 8 p.m. Aug. 8
Mount Tabor Church Park, 13616
TIFFANY MAHANEY
Tiffany Mahaney
Baron and Lane Mahaney enjoy The Big Wooden Slide at Mount Tabor Park in Rocky Ridge.
Motters Station Road, Rocky Ridge
Free
If you’re familiar with the site of the big wooden slide in Rocky Ridge, then get ready for a family-friendly picnic hosted by Mount Tabor Church this Saturday. Enjoy live music from 4 to 8 p.m. Tractor rides through the community will begin at 11 a.m., with the line forming at 10 a.m. Enjoy homemade food like sandwiches, soup, fries, ice cream and sweet tea. The annual Baby Show, including the best-looking baby competition, begins at 3 p.m., and registration starts at 2 p.m. The funny competition is open to all babies 24 months and younger. And yes, the Big Slide is open to enjoy, too!
Camp Night
5 p.m. Aug. 8
Watkins Park, 615 Center St., Mount Airy
Free
To celebrate the town of Mount Airy’s birthday, its annual Camp Night returns! Enjoy s’mores, a movie, scouting activities and more at Watkins Park this Saturday evening. The event provides a chance to spend the night in the park, learn camping skills and meet other locals. Local scout troops will offer games and Dutch oven cooking demonstrations. Local food trucks will be on-site. Grab chairs and a blanket to enjoy an outdoor showing of “Muppet Treasure Island” with s’mores around a campfire. Bring your own tent and camping supplies, including a flashlight. No registration is required unless you plan to spend the night. The town will provide light breakfast fare to campers in the morning. For questions, contact Nancy Hernandez at nhernandez@ mountairymd.gov.
Magic
Creative: How a Card
Becomes
More than Rules
1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Aug. 9 Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick Free
Creating a Magic: The Gathering card is a years-long process, from the inception of an idea to the finished product you open from a booster pack. In this presentation, Jay Annelli, Magic’s Loremaster, will talk about the creative side of making a Magic card, from card concepts to flavor text. Afterward, there will be time to trade, battle and talk with fellow players! This program is recommended for ages 13 to 25.
Tiffany Mahaney is at least a fifth-generation native to Frederick County, and she now proudly raises her own family here. She is the owner of The Frederick Mom. To see more local family-friendly things to do, follow her at @thefrederickmom.
GreenSpring Music Festival to bring free performances to Thurmont
The 2026 GreenSpring Music Festival will present free classical music performances Aug. 9 to 15 at historic churches and other venues across Thurmont.
This year’s featured artists include concert pianist and conductor Alexander Kordzaia, classical guitarist Colin Davin, violinist Rachel Lee Zhao and harpists Krista Hagglund and Abigail Kent, principal harp of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.
The festival will also feature two young pianists — 12-year-old Vance McGraw and 16-year-old Caleb Coyne — along with 13 early-career musicians participating in the competitive Festival Fellows program. The fellows come from across the United States and as far away as China.
“These two young musicians are absolutely extraordinary,” GreenSpring executive director Lynnelle Ediger said of McGraw and Coyne. “Hearing them perform live is an experience you won’t forget.”
The week will include faculty and solo concerts, chamber music performances, two lunchtime concerts followed by complimentary lunches and a closing celebration at Links Bridge Vineyards. All events are free and open to the public, although reservations are required for the vineyard celebration.
SCHEDULE
• The GreenSpring Music Festival Opening Concert will feature festival faculty at 7 p.m. Aug. 9 at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10621 Old Frederick Road, Thurmont.
• The GreenSpring Festival Fellows Solo Night will begin at 7 p.m. Aug. 10 at Lewistown United Methodist Church, 11032 Hessong Bridge Road, Thurmont.
• A lunchtime chamber music concert will begin at noon Aug. 12 at St. John’s Reformed Church, 8619 Blacks Mill Road, Thurmont. A complimentary lunch provided by the church will follow the concert.
• GreenSpring artists and Festival Fellows will perform chamber music together during the Side-by-Side concert at 7 p.m. Aug. 12 at St. John’s Reformed Church, 8619 Blacks Mill Road, Thurmont.
• Kent will be the featured artist during a harp concert at 7 p.m. Aug. 13 at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10621 Old Frederick Road, Thurmont.
• A second lunchtime chamber music concert will begin at noon Aug. 14 at St. John’s Reformed Church, 8619 Blacks Mill Road, Thurmont. A complimentary lunch provided by the church will follow the concert.
• The GreenSpring Music Festival Finale will begin at 7 p.m. Aug. 14 at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10621 Old Frederick Road, Thurmont.
• The Festival Celebration, featuring music and fellowship, will begin at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 15 at Links Bridge Vineyards, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. Seating is limited, and reservations are required. All festival events are free. See greenspringmusic.org/ greenspringfestivalschedule for the complete schedule and vineyard celebration reservations.
Jean-Marie Cote
Abigail Kent, principal harp of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.
Courtesy photo
The festival includes a harp concert on Aug. 13 at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thurmont.
GETAWAYS
West Virginia’s Mercer County is truly Appalachian
BY SHUAN BUTCHER
Special to The News-Post
As you explore possible vacation destinations, Mercer County, West Virginia, may not automatically come to mind. But once you visit, you will be glad you did. Mercer County is located in southern West Virginia in the midst of the Appalachian Mountains.
Most people visit for the outdoor adventure opportunities that await, including an abundance of scenic overlooks, state parks and the renowned ATV trail system in the region. But there is also rich history, lots of folklore and stories and unique experiences that you may not be able to get everywhere else. You can concentrate your trip with visits to sites in three communities: Bluefield, Bramwell and Princeton.
BLUEFIELD
Your first stop here should be Gary Bowling’s House of Art. This oneof-a-kind creative space spans five stories, where each landing provides a different experience. Housed in a 1926 school building, it is not your traditional art gallery. In fact, it is as much of an experience as anything else. Think Artomatic, with an array of immersive and repurposed art made from found objects.
In addition to various artists’ studios, 15 to 20 artists are typically showcased at any given time. The eclectic mix of installations includes everything from vintage circus posters to a Zoltan machine and everything in between. The building was featured in “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” for having entrances on seven different levels. Gary Bowling’s House of Art has been a regional draw for more than eight years and is known for its annual Haunted Tour. Another unique feature is George T. Anderson Jr.’s Wheels Exhibit, a handcrafted chronology of various means of transportation through time.
Right next door, and part of Gary Bowling’s House of Art, is the One Thin Dime Museum. This is a more traditional local history museum, offering a glimpse into the people and stories that shaped Mercer County. What’s truly unique about this museum is its admission fee. You guessed it — just 10 cents.
For lunch, you must eat at Gino’s Pizza & Spaghetti House. This West Virginia favorite offers a great selection of Italian favorites, including a variety of pastas and subs. But make sure you try the pizza, as it is fantastic.
East River Mountain Overlook offers panoramic views of Bluefield and the surrounding Appalachian landscape.
To take in some of the area’s panoramic views, visit East River Mountain Overlook. Getting there is half the battle and half the fun as you wind up and around the mountain to the top. Once you are there, you will be rewarded with wonderful scenery from both sides of the road. But the real draw to this little park is the Almost Heaven swing. People travel from near and far to take part in the Almost Heaven SWINGO Challenge, the Mountain State’s version of bingo. These iconic swings have been placed in picturesque locations throughout West Virginia for the perfect
Instagram-worthy photos.
For your final destination in Bluefield, grab dinner at The RailYard. Located in Bluefield’s Historic Depot District, The RailYard is a lively local favorite. It is known for its selection of craft burgers and handhelds like the BLFGT, a fried green tomato sandwich with lettuce, applewood bacon, pimento and red pepper bacon jam on grilled sourdough, served with rosemary-garlic chips. But don’t overlook the chicken waffle nachos either, which include mini waffles, mustard-maple sauce, shredded cheddar, sriracha and sour cream.
immersive installation
IF YOU GO
Learn more at visitmercercounty.com.
BRAMWELL
Bramwell is a historic town known as the “Town of Millionaires” because of its high concentration of wealthy coal barons at the turn of the 20th century. At one point, it had more millionaires per capita than anywhere in the country. Walk back through time as you explore Millionaire Row. Grab a map and take a self-guided tour to learn about the history of the Victorian homes and their previous occupants, all within a few blocks. Also check out the train station and the museum housed inside it.
But the real highlight during your visit to this small town is having lunch at the Bramwell Soda Fountain and Corner Shop. You will get an immediate sense of nostalgia when you see its original gooseneck soda fountain, and you can “paint” your own drink with a variety of flavor additions, including grape, lemon, raspberry, pineapple, vanilla and even peanut butter. Heck, consider trying a “Rickie,” which is fresh-squeezed lemonade with lots of fizz. Here, they serve up classic American food. You can get hand-spun milkshakes, malts, ice cream sodas and floats. For actual food, they have a fried green tomato sandwich, too. But if you are in West Virginia, you have to try the pepperoni roll, a staple and delicacy in the state.
On your way out of Bramwell, stop by
Photos by Shuan Butcher
An
inside Gary Bowling’s House of Art in Bluefield, West Virginia.
Pinnacle Rock State Park. This stunning rock formation seems to appear out of nowhere. Be sure to hike to the top of the sandstone formation, which reaches an elevation of about 3,100 feet, for panoramic views from the overlook.
PRINCETON
In Princeton, start your day by getting breakfast at Tudor’s Biscuit World. Another West Virginia mainstay, Tudor’s is known for its made-fromscratch biscuit sandwiches and hearty breakfast platters. You can’t go wrong with its biscuits and gravy.
After breakfast, you will want to go for a walk, though. One place where you can get a wonderful hike in is Camp Creek State Park and Forest. Take an easy stroll along a relatively flat path to Campbell Falls to enjoy a beautiful waterfall. You might even walk by some anglers along the way. For fun, stop by the Brush Creek Holl’r Mountain Coaster. West Virginia’s first and only mountain coaster takes you 700 feet up the mountain and allows you to go down at speeds as high as 30 miles per hour. This gravitydriven ride sends you twisting and turning down more than 2,500 feet of track through the scenic hills of Mercer County. Do you want to go slow and enjoy the views and the ride, or do you want to go fast and experience the adrenaline rush? It’s up to you, as you control the speed. This adventure is truly for kids and kids at heart.
When it’s time for lunch, grab a bite at Dolly’s Diner. You’ll love the welcoming atmosphere and vintage decor at this classic diner. But you’ll also love its home-style comfort food and discover why Dolly’s is a local favorite.
chorizo and rice and topped with cheese dip, bacon and pineapple. Even the starter tortilla chips that you often get at a Mexican restaurant were unique. In addition to the traditional salsa, a delightful side of queso was included. For dessert, they offer the usual suspects, such as sopapillas and flan, but there are some other amazing choices as well. The Panny Churros are cream cheese-filled churros covered with cinnamon sugar and served with vanilla ice cream. The Xango is cheesecake inside a goldenbrown tortilla crust. It is served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream and a honey drizzle.
If you want a truly memorable experience, book a tour at Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park. The property has unique layers of history and is believed to contain an ancient Native American burial ground; it later became an amusement park. What you see is what you get when you visit here. On the tour, you will hear stories of accidents that occurred when the amusement park was open to visitors, leaving you wondering if more is going on here. Just seeing the ghostly remnants of old rides and structures during the day feels like stepping into an Eduardo Sánchez horror film. For anyone into paranormal activity, the
site has been featured on a number of paranormal television shows. Princeton may not be your first thought when it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine, but a visit to Campestre Mexican Bar and Grill will change that. Known for its fresh, made-to-order dishes, generous portions and welcoming atmosphere, the menu features standard favorites like sizzling fajitas and flavorful streetstyle tacos. But it is always refreshing to find entrees that you don’t see on other restaurant menus. For example, the Quesabirria is a birria quesadilla with cilantro and onion, served with consommé and sour cream. The Hawaiian Burrito is filled with chicken,
Finally, check out a race at Princeton Speedway. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the track bills itself as the fastest 3/8-mile dirt track in the state and hosts a variety of racing classes, including late models and street stocks. On race weekends from April to September, families fill the stands to watch the high-energy action at this family-operated track. You can sometimes see 24 cars racing on the clay.
Given how hectic life can sometimes be, there are places that beckon you to pause, take a deep breath, relax and just be. Here, the mountains are more than pretty scenery. They call you to slow down and take in all that is around you. This place embraces its mountain culture and encourages you to try something different. It is uniquely Appalachian. Once you visit, you won’t forget about it.
Shuan Butcher is a writer, nonprofit professional, event planner and avid traveler. He writes from Frederick.
Camp Creek State Park and Forest is known for its waterfalls, streams and hiking trails. Princeton Speedway hosts seasonal dirt-track racing in Princeton, West Virginia.
LEFT: One of the historic homes along Millionaire Row in Bramwell, West Virginia. RIGHT: The Bramwell Soda Fountain and Corner Shop features an original gooseneck soda fountain and classic American fare.
BOOKS
New book demystifies sports for would-be fans
Walkersville author Lauri M. Gross has released a new book designed to help nonfans and casual fans better understand baseball, basketball and football.
Published July 27, “Why Is Everyone Cheering?: A fun and practical primer on watching baseball, basketball and football for wanna-be sports fans who have a lot to learn” focuses on what spectators see and hear while watching games in person or on television.
The 165-page book includes quizzes and 161 color photographs of athletes, coaches, officials, scoreboards and other elements of the games. Gross describes herself not as a sports expert but as an expert at being a superfan.
“Experts can tell you more about sports than I can, but they can’t tell you how to start at the beginning and learn to see and hear more on the playing field. They can’t unlearn what they know. They can’t go back and remember what it’s like to watch baseball and see nothing but a guy swinging a bat. But I can. If you ask a sports expert to explain sports, they get way too intense way too fast. If you ask Google about any sports rule, you’ll get paragraphs that quickly descend into maddening technicalities. Before you know how to decipher what’s on a scoreboard, they’ll be explaining the nuanced strategy of each play. But really, you might just want to start by knowing how to decipher what’s on the scoreboard. You’re welcome,” Gross said.
Gross has spent more than 40 years learning about baseball, basketball and football by watching games, attending sporting events and asking questions. She spent four years creating the book and hopes it will help more people experience the enjoyment and sense of community that sports can provide.
The book is geared toward people joining sports-loving families, those whose friends or colleagues regularly discuss sports, people invited to sporting events, youth coaches seeking more engaged families and casual fans who want to expand their knowledge.
For more than 20 years, Gross wrote features, columns and essays for 15 newspapers and magazines
in Ohio and Maryland. Earlier in her career, she was part of the startup team that launched Discovery Channel in 1985. She worked for the network for 13 years, including 11 years on staff and two as a freelancer, and also worked with TLC and Animal Planet.
Today, her phone case bears the image of a baseball, her license plate
New mystery ‘Death Along the Towpath’ unfolds along C&O Canal
A morning jog along the C&O Canal towpath turns deadly when an abandoned minivan explodes in “Death Along the Towpath,” a new mystery novel by P B Farrell.
National Park Service special agent Pia Isadora Humboldt is assigned to investigate the explosion alongside rookie agent Rob Maquire. The case widens to involve a third victim, military-grade weapons and signs of a clandestine transfer, drawing the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives into the investigation.
As Humboldt follows the trail, she uncovers a weapons-trafficking operation, corrupt local law enforcement, secret affairs and long-held grudges. What initially appears to be a criminal enterprise gone wrong ultimately points toward a personal motive involving jealousy and betrayal.
reads “GAME 7,” her dining room is filled with sports memorabilia and she has appeared numerous times on stadium video boards.
Gross published the book under her imprint, Pronio Press. It is available through Amazon.
Learn more about Gross and the book at whyiseveryonecheering.com.
Set in central Maryland and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, the novel combines the landscape and history of the region with a contemporary crime story.
“Death Along the Towpath” is the first installment in the Humble Pie Mystery series. It is available in paperback and Kindle editions through Amazon and as an e-book through other retailers. For more information, visit lucky-dog-press.com.
Courtesy photo
“Death Along the Towpath”
Courtesy photo
‘Law & Order: Special Improv Unit’ returns to New Spire Arts
MidAtlantic Improv will bring its fully improvised take on a familiar television police procedural back to New Spire Arts for two performances at 3 and 7:30 p.m. Aug. 8.
Created and developed by Michael Harris and the performers of MidAtlantic Improv, “Law & Order: Special Improv Unit” transforms audience suggestions into a Frederick-focused comedic murder investigation.
The audience helps shape every aspect of the story, from the discovery of the victim — played by an audience member — to the investigation, courtroom arguments and final verdict. The result is a never-before-seen, never-to-be-repeated episode that follows the familiar structure of the long-running “Law & Order” television franchise.
MidAtlantic Improv has presented several shows at New Spire Arts in recent years, including “Bah Humbug: A Christmas Carol (Mostly) Improvised.”
Harris is an actor, improviser and teaching artist who has worked in the Baltimore, Washington and Frederick region for 20 years. He has performed at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, Studio Theatre, Endangered Species Theatre Project and Kennedy Center, among other regional theaters.
Under the MidAtlantic Improv banner, Harris has created shows including “Choose Your Own Election,” developed with Baltimore Sun editorial cartoonist KAL, and “Bah Humbug: A Christmas Carol (Mostly) Improvised.” He is a faculty member at Hood College.
Tickets are $20, with $15 tickets available for students, military members and seniors
age 62 and older. They may be purchased at weinbergcenter.org, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828 or in person at the Weinberg
For more than a century, the historic Catoctin Furnace has stood dark. A new digital installation will soon allow visitors to see what the ironmaking operation looked and sounded like when it was in full blast.
The Catoctin Furnace Historical Society received a $50,000 matching grant from the Maryland Heritage Areas Program for Fire in the Furnace, a digital projectionmapping project planned for the restored furnace and casting shed.
Gov. Wes Moore announced 58 matching grant awards totaling $5 million in July for nonprofits, local jurisdictions and heritage tourism organizations across Maryland.
From 1776 to 1903, workers at Catoctin Furnace transformed iron ore into stoves, firebacks, pots, kettles, tools and ammunition used during the Revolutionary War. Enslaved and free skilled ironworkers performed much of the labor during the furnace’s early decades.
Iron ore was heated to about 2,800 degrees, producing brilliant orange molten metal inside the furnace stack. Before the iron was tapped, guttermen prepared a sand bed on the casting house floor, raking and digging channels into which the iron would flow.
The new projection will show molten iron pouring from the base
of the furnace stack and flowing into troughs on the casting shed floor as it would have 250 years ago. Narration will explain the ironmaking process, accompanied by the ringing of the casting house bell that summoned molders and their helpers to work.
The installation is scheduled to debut this winter as Catoctin Furnace marks 250 years since it began producing iron alongside the nation’s semiquincentennial.
For more information or to schedule a visit, call 240-2887396 or visit catoctinfurnace.org. The Museum of the Ironworker is at 12610 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont.
Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. The performances will be held at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick.
Courtesy photo
The restored Catoctin Furnace in Thurmont, where a new digital projection will recreate the historic ironmaking process.
Lena McBean
Detectives interrupt a real estate scam during a performance of “Law & Order: Special Improv Unit.”
Virtual 50+ Community Center
Art Show — Aug. 19, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Frederick 50+ Community Center, 1440 Taney Ave., Frederick. An inspiring showcase of artwork made by our 50+ community — paintings, drawings, quilting, pottery, woodworking, sculpture, photography and more. Attendance is free. Pre-register to receive a link to attend virtually. Light refreshments will be provided. frederickcountymd. gov/virtual50.
”America Punctuated: Contemporary Responses to 250 Years of America” — through Aug.
23, Frederick Book Arts Center, 127 S. Carroll St., Frederick. There’s a big difference between “America!” and “America?” In 1962, Martin Speckter, an advertising executive and hobbyist letterpress printer in New York, invented the interrobang, a mark of punctuation that combines the question mark and the exclamation point. FBAC hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and noon to 6 p.m. Saturday. frederickbookarts. org.
”Night Journeys” Photography After Dark” — through Aug. 30,
Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Photography by Rich Isaacman. These works offer nighttime views in settings around the world, from Vietnam to Bangladesh. The world is different after dark: different light, different skies and cityscapes, different people. 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.
”Stills on White” — through Aug. 30, Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. An exhibit by June Jarkey. For gallery hours, call 301-473-7680 or email gallery@
frederickuu.org or visit frederickuu. org/gallery.
”Wanderings” — through Aug. 30, Gallery 322, 322 N. Market St., Frederick. Summer group exhibition explores the quiet, fleeting moments of discovery found in nature and the local landscape. Features regional artists. Hours are 4-7 p.m. Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 240-961-2242 or gallery322.com.
”Over 70 Show” — through Aug. 30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Works in a variety of media. A signature of the Delaplaine’s Creative Aging Month,
Courtesy photo
“Sarah Cairns: Inner Space” runs through Aug. 30 at the Delaplaine Arts Center in Frederick. Shown here, “A Rush of Intercession,” by Cairns.
this annual exhibition celebrates local artists over age 70 and showcases a wide range of styles, techniques, and interests. 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.
“Corvid Conspiracy” — through Aug. 30 at NOMA Gallery, 437 N Market St., Frederick. Curated by NOMA artist Judith Kornett, the title derives from Kornett’s inordinate love of the bird we call raven, which belongs to the classification Corvid, and the fact that a gathering of ravens is called a “conspiracy.” Kornett conspires to curate an exhibit including her work and that of three artist friends: Sherman Fleming, David Cunningham and Treston Sanders. Artist talk at 2 p.m. Aug. 22. 814254-9977, nomagalleryfrederick. com.
”Obsessed: Ink Drawings by Jim Haller” — through Aug. 30, Links Bridge Vineyards, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. Part of the Wine and Art Series. This is a unique exhibit featuring beautiful, bigger than life renditions of old medicine bottles from the artist’s collection. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, or by appointment. 301-466-2413, linksbridgevineyards.com.
“Ken Bachman: Perspectives” — through Aug. 30 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This exhibition showcases landscape oil paintings from a variety of perspectives, locations and themes both natural and manmade.
“Sarah Cairns: Inner Space” — through Aug. 30 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This exhibition of paintings is an exploration of peace within chaos. Humans make sense of the world through finding patterns in their surroundings. This search for repetition and self-similarity not only orders the complexity of the world but also ushers in a profound sense of peace. It is this moment of serene introspection that the artist aims to recreate for those who view her paintings.
“Unscripted” — through Aug. 30 at Artspiration, 915 Tollhouse Ave., Frederick. A juried exhibition showcasing original works by local, regional and national artists who embrace creativity without limitations. Each artwork was selected by juror Wendell Poindexter, professor of art and gallery manager at Frederick Community College. 240-397-
”Reordering Reality: Pencil Works by Michael C. Gibson” — through Sept. 5, Just Lookin’ Gallery, 40 Summit Ave., Hagerstown. His graphite portraits challenge our assumptions about what we see. Though viewers often mistake his drawings for photographs, Gibson resists the label of photorealism. His work is not an attempt to replicate reality, but to reorder it — elevating memory, identity, spirituality and presence through the deliberate language of graphite. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, by appointment Sunday and Monday. 301-714-2278, justlookin.com.
”Passport to Patriotism: 250 Years of Diplomacy” — through Oct. 18, Art Museum of the Americas, 201 18th St. NW, Washington, D.C. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, exhibit brings together works by more than 30 contemporary American artists celebrating patriotism, national identity, military service, diplomacy and the American Dream. It marks the first time the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Art in Embassies — which has shared American art with the world for over six decades — has presented a major public exhibition in the nation’s capital. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. https:// art.state.gov/freedom-250.
The Trawick Prize: Bethesda Contemporary Art Awards — Sept. 3-27, Gallery B, 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Suite E, Bethesda. More than 370 artists from Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. submitted work to the 24th annual competition.
The eight finalists are, Cindy Cheng, Diana Derby, Ayana Gordon, Leslie Holt, Madyha Leghari, Anne Rogers, Tony Shore and Ciarra K. Walters. Gallery hours are Thursday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. A public opening reception will be held Sept. 4, from 6-8 p.m. during the Bethesda Art Walk. 301-215-6660 or bethesda.org/trawick-prize.
”Impressionistic Landscapes” — Sept. 5-27, Links Bridge Vineyards, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. Part of the Wine and Art Series. Pastel landscapes by professional artist Brian Jernigan. Opening reception 1-3 p.m. Sept. 6. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, or by appointment. 301-466-2413, linksbridgevineyards.com.
Black-eyed Susan installation arrives at Frederick City Hall
A field of 500 metal-stamped black-eyed Susans designed by artist Lusmerlin Lantigua has been installed in front of Frederick City Hall as part of the Frederick Arts Council’s yearlong 50th anniversary celebration.
The temporary installation will remain on view at 101 N. Court St., Frederick, through early October.
Earlier this year, the arts council held a public art competition inviting artists to reimagine Maryland’s state flower through a large-scale temporary installation. Lantigua, who works professionally as Lusmerlin, was selected to create the project.
The 500 individually crafted flowers represent 10 flowers for each year the arts council has supported creativity and cultural stewardship in Frederick. Together, they form a landscape intended to symbolize growth, resilience and community.
The installation debuted at the Y Ausherman Arts Center before moving to Winchester Hall and the Visitation Hotel. City Hall is the fourth stop in the community-wide public art initiative.
“Lusmerlin’s Black-Eyed Susan project beautifully reflects both Maryland’s iconic state flower and the creativity that thrives throughout Frederick County. By
placing these flowers at prominent community locations, we’re creating opportunities for residents and visitors alike to enjoy and honor five decades of supporting artists, fostering cultural engagement, and enriching our community through the arts,” said Louise Kennelly, executive director of the Frederick Arts Council.
The City of Frederick partnered with the arts council to bring the installation to the front lawn of City Hall.
“We’re proud to welcome this Black-Eyed Susan installation to the front lawn of City Hall. As we celebrate the Frederick Arts Council’s 50 years of enriching our community through the arts, this installation serves as a reminder of the creativity, collaboration, and civic pride that defines Frederick,” Mayor Michael O’Connor said.
After the traveling installation concludes at the end of the year, individual flowers will be available for purchase for $40 apiece. They are available for preorder through givebutter.com, with proceeds supporting the Frederick Arts Council’s mission.
Learn more about the Frederick Arts Council at frederickartscouncil. org and Lusmerlin at lusmerlin.com.
Frederick Arts Council
Dublin Roasters
Coffee serves Cherry Explosion and Orange Creamsicle dirty sodas made with flavored syrups and cream.
Frederick gets
Where to try the viral soda trend
BY TIFFANY MAHANEY
Special to The News-Post
Weird and intriguing food trends emerge all the time. Remember the Dubai pistachio chocolate craze? What about butter boards? And who can forget viral focaccia bread art?
Food trends both inspire us and leave us scratching our heads. (I’m talking about you, ranch water cocktail.)
Today, people are hooked on dirty sodas, and the trend is influencing menus everywhere! So just what’s this explosion of interest all about?
FIRST, WHAT IS A DIRTY SODA?
It’s not actually an alcoholic beverage, as one might think. It’s a customizable soda-based drink “spiked” — maybe the wrong word — with cream, flavored syrups or fruit juices. Basically, a carbonated mocktail.
Dirty sodas first became popular in Utah in the early 2010s, when Swig began selling custom soda combinations from a drive-thru in St. George. The viral beverage boom got another major boost from the women drinking them on Hulu’s 2024 reality series “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.”
From there, the craze prompted multiple drink chains and drive-thru businesses to pop up nationwide, with
Swig the first and most recognizable dirty soda brand leading a long list of companies that followed.
For many people, the draw is that they’re a fun alternative to coffee or tea and easy to tailor to individual tastes.
Just don’t look at the calories. Dirty sodas should really be in the dessert category. Unless you’re mixing your own blend at home using diet sodas and sugar-free syrups and creamers, a 24-ounce dirty soda can easily contain 60 to 80 grams of sugar.
There are also water-based options — think Italian soda — that use sparkling water as the base instead of soda, though the syrups and cream can still add plenty of sugar.
SO, WHERE CAN I TRY ONE?
If you’re interested in trying one, you won’t need to look far. I first saw dirty sodas at Lucy’s Little Red Wagon, a boutique gift shop inside Flood Zone Brewery in Union Bridge, where the popular drinks are sold in the back. (Skim down; I talk more about Lucy’s below.)
Then I saw dirty sodas offered at a cafe, then at an ice cream parlor and so on. Dirty sodas are sold at farmers markets, restaurants, grocery stores and even fastfood chains now.
You know that if fast-food conglomerates are getting on the bandwagon, the appeal is undeniable.
Taco Bell, for instance, offers a Pepsi dirty soda — regular Pepsi with vanilla creme swirled in. McDonald’s sells a Dirty Dr Pepper with vanilla flavor and cold foam, as well as Sprite Berry Blast, which
Warehouse Cinemas creates themed
inspired by new movie releases.
mixes Sprite with blue raspberry flavor and cold foam.
Even our small town is getting behind this viral trend! Let’s dive into where to get one locally.
People wait in line to get a drink at The Maryland Mule trailer when it was set up at the Catoctin Zoo recently.
Tiffany Mahaney
Tiffany Mahaney
dirty sodas
Staff photo by Ric Dugan
Karissa Cochran, owner of The Maryland Mule, holds a “Blue Crab” dirty soda.
recently.
LUCY’S LITTLE RED WAGON
50 N. Main St., Union Bridge
Hidden inside Flood Zone Brewery is the cutest dirty soda bar around. At Lucy’s Little Red Wagon, you can order a flight of three or customize your own mix. This summer, try one of the specials on its menu of 12! The Dirty Dole Whip combines Mountain Dew, pineapple juice, coconut creamer and cold foam. The Watermelon Crawl layers ginger ale, watermelon juice and green appleflavored cold foam. Visit again around the holidays and try one of the festive dirty sodas, like a Dr. Gingerbread, Grinch Dew or The Little Debbie, topped with a holiday tree snack.
FREDERICK FUDGE & ICE CREAM
253 E. Church St., Frederick
On the corner of Everedy Square, visitors love stopping in to Frederick Fudge & Ice Cream to satisfy their sweet tooth. Now we have another reason to go. Try the Wally dirty soda — affectionately named after the shop’s bear mascot. The Wally is part Sprite, part lemonade and blue raspberry juice, topped with whipped cream and gummy bears. Come autumn, be sure to check out the seasonal fall dirty soda — a mix of bubbly Coke, chai flavors and a splash of cream.
North Market Pop Shop lets customers choose from more than 400 varieties of soda and add syrups, cream and other toppings.
SUNSET & MAIN
68 W. Main St., New Market
The new sweet shop in New Market, known and loved for its delicious slushies, has a menu of five colorful dirty sodas to choose from. Sunset &
Main can whip up a Dirty Dr Pepper, a classic choice for newbies; a Blue Hawaiian; a Beach Berry, served with real fruit floating around; or an Orange Dreamsicle, my family’s favorite. Imagine fizzy orange soda with vanilla creamer, topped with an orange slice. So refreshing!
SWEETIES
50 Carroll Creek, Suite 120, Frederick
Right on the creek in beautiful historic downtown Frederick is Sweeties. It offers 12 playful dirty drink choices served over ice. I tried the Cotton Candy dirty soda, a refreshing green mixture somewhere between lime and emerald, made with Mountain Dew, cotton candyflavored syrup, sweet cream and cold foam, then topped with a cloud of real cotton candy. Talk about a toothache! But it was so good on a hot day.
Other ones that stood out were the Cookies and Cream dirty soda, the Chocolate Covered Strawberry dirty soda and the Toasty Babe — a creation of root beer mixed with toasted marshmallow syrup, sweet cream and mini marshmallows, with whipped cream on top!
(See DIRTY 17)
Sweeties on Carroll Creek
including a cotton candy
topped with a cloud of the real thing.
The
dirty
and
and
Staff photo by Ric Dugan
Tiffany Mahaney
Lucy’s Little Red Wagon in Union Bridge offers customizable dirty sodas, seasonal creations and flights of three drinks.
Mahaney sodas
Tiffany Mahaney
Wally
soda at Frederick Fudge & Ice Cream combines Sprite, lemonade
blue raspberry juice with whipped cream
gummy bears.
Tiffany Mahaney
Sunset & Main in New Market serves colorful dirty sodas, including the Orange Dreamsicle, made with orange soda and vanilla creamer.
Tiffany Mahaney
offers 12 dirty drink creations,
version
Tiffany Mahaney
The best movies of 2026 so far, from ‘Project Hail Mary’ to ‘Rose of Nevada’
BY JAKE COYLE and LINDSEY BAHR AP Film Writers
A quick summary of the movie year so far: The box office is booming, Gen Z is flocking to theaters and aliens are … real?
It’s been a curiously seesawing 2026 so far. The movies have been dominated as much by 26-year-old YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Curry Barker as they have 79-year-old Steven Spielberg. Some much-prized Hollywood IP has struggled ( “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu”) while other franchises ( “Toy Story 5”) have been more than fine. The favorites so far of AP Film Writers Jake Coyle and Lindsey Bahr are fittingly varied, running from shattering debuts to goofy sci-fi. Here are their picks.
sidekick and a quirkily charming lead in Ryan Gosling. (Streaming on Prime Video on July 3) — L.B.
”Rose of Nevada”
Everything feels like an echo in Mark Jenkin’s dreamlike tale of time and sea.
George Mackay and Callum Turner play crewmen who enlist on a rusty Cornish fishing boat that, upon its return, drops them off in the same English village, 30 years earlier. They’re mistaken for two men thought to be lost. Jenkin, who shoots on 16mm and syncs sound in postproduction, makes films that feel out of time, and “Rose of Nevada” rocks to a haunting tide. (In theaters) — J.C.
”Blue Heron”
”Disclosure Day”
Listen, I realize the alien stuff is a little blunt. And you can question the nostalgia baked into a modern-day movie where everyone huddles around TV sets. But when “Disclosure Day” is moving, Spielberg is back in an idiom all his own — and what reconnecting to that spirit means isn’t simply wistful. This is a stealthily political movie about whether Spielberg’s warm belief in humankind can exist today — if he can rebuild that suburban family home. “Disclosure Day” is as much Spielberg phoning home as was his autobiographic “The Fabelmans.” (In theaters) — J.C.
”Project Hail Mary”
Phil Lord and Christopher Miller’s adaptation of Andy Weir’s space saga about a middle school science teacher who is called on to help save the dying sun is one of the easiest recommendations of the year. It is a most-ages crowd-pleaser, funny, warm and dazzling, with a hopeful spirit, a quotable alien
Sophy Romvari’s exquisite and soulful directorial debut melds documentary and fiction, past and present. It’s based on her own childhood, when her Hungarian parents moved their family of six to Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Their teenage son is mentally troubled and distant, and you can feel “Blue Heron” yearning to reach him, through his disorder and through time. It’s an aching, probing memory piece. (Streams July 21 on Criterion Channel) — J.C.
”Tuner”
Remember how “Good Will Hunting” originally had a crime element to it and Rob Reiner (rightly) advised taking it out? Daniel Roher’s crackling, original thriller “Tuner,” a spiritual descendant of that great film, goes down that path successfully, creating a scenario where a workaday piano tuner, and musical prodigy who can no longer play, gets entangled in a criminal underworld, using his sensitive hearing to crack safes. Leo Woodall stars alongside Dustin Hoffman and Havana Rose Liu. (Available for digital rental) — L.B.
”Miroirs No. 3”
Christian Petzold, a great admirer of Hitchcock and “Vertigo,” makes movies where identity, rather than people, can go missing. In this lightly enigmatic 86-minute chamber piece, a woman (Paula Beer) injured in a car crash decides to stay and recuperate at a nearby home where an older, solitary woman (Barbara Auer) resides. The unfolding drama is as beguiling as it is healing. (Available for digital rental) — J.C. ”Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie”
Slacker buddies develop crackpot schemes to land a gig at the Rivoli, a Toronto music venue, in this infectiously silly, lo-fi indie about time travel, friendship and dreams. Canadian comics Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol may have a cult fanbase from their various series about these lovable losers, but I’m proof that no prior knowledge is needed to get on their goofy wavelength and enjoy the ride — and all the “Back to the Future” references. (Available for digital rental) — L.B.
”Is God Is” Rage and revenge are the heart of Aleshea Harris’s adaptation of her Obie-winning play, in which twin sisters embark on a journey to find, and kill, their abusive father. The tale has both ancient Greek tragedy and Tarantino in its DNA, but it comes alive as its own shocking, vital creation driven by unforgettable performances from Kara Young, Mallori Johnson and a truly terrifying Sterling K. Brown. (Available for digital rental) — L.B.
”A Poet”
There hasn’t been a better protagonist this year than Oscar Restrepo (Ubeimar Rios). He’s a failed Columbian writer, a bit of a drunk and, as one character calls him, “a walking problem.” But he’s also, despite his seemingly total lack of grace, a true believer in poetry. Simón Mesa Soto’s film, reportedly getting an English-language remake, is the tragicomedy of the year. (Available for digital rental) — J.C.
”Minions & Monsters”
”The Invite”
A San Francisco couple host their upstairs neighbors for a last-minute dinner party in Olivia Wilde’s deliriously sharp chamber dramedy about sex and marriage. Wilde both directs and stars as the neurotic Angela, whose relationship with Seth Rogen’s Joe is already on the rocks, when their more, let’s say, liberated neighbors Pína (Penélope Cruz) and Hawk (Edward Norton) arrive to stir things up for better and worse. The mix — contentious, revelatory, awkward and funny — proves a wonderful showcase for some great acting, staging and filmmaking. (In theaters) — L.B.
This year’s most affectionate ode to the golden age of Hollywood comes from … the Minions? Yes, it’s an unlikely role for one of the most ubiquitous marketing forces in animation. But “Minions & Monsters,” a cartoony good time, finds that the best role yet for the yellow henchmen is as filmmakers. They had me at bello. (In theaters) — J.C.
”Hoppers”
There is a gleefully chaotic spirit to Pixar’s “Hoppers,” about a determined young environmental activist who Avatars her way into the world of beavers in an attempt to block the construction of a highway overpass that would destroy her beloved glade. It is unhinged in the best way. Funny, weird and heartfelt with a terrifically distinct voice cast, including Dave Franco as a tyrannical insect prince. (Streaming on Disney+) — L.B.
Jonathan Olley/Amazon MGM Studios via AP
This image released by Amazon MGM Studios shows Ryan Gosling in a scene from “Project Hail Mary.”
Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment via AP
This image released by Universal Pictures shows Colman Domingo, from left, Tommy Martinez, Emily Blunt and Josh O’Connor in a scene from “Disclosure Day.”
A24 via AP
This image released by A24 shows, from left, Olivia Wilde, Seth Rogen, Penelope Cruz, and Edward Norton in a scene from “The Invite.”
Patti Perret/Amazon Content Services via AP
This image released by Amazon Content Services shows Kara Young, left, and Mallori Johnson in a scene from “Is God Is.”
DIRTY
(Continued from 15)
NORTH MARKET POP SHOP
241 N. Market St., Frederick
Of course, let’s not forget downtown’s very own North Market Pop Shop, with more than 400 varieties of soda right here in Frederick. If you want to create your own carbonated mocktail, I’d suggest stepping inside, choosing a soda and asking them to “make it dirty.”
They also make another viral drink called the Fluffy Coke, a cup lined with sticky, sweet marshmallow fluff and filled with Coca-Cola. Take it a step further and ask them to make a Fluffy Pop — a mashup between a Fluffy Coke and a dirty soda.
DUBLIN ROASTERS COFFEE
1780 N. Market St., Suite C, Frederick
A fan-favorite java shop in town has hitched a ride on the dirty wagon, too. Stop by Dublin Roasters to try its Cherry Explosion or Orange Creamsicle dirty sodas. Think refreshing, fizzy sodas blended with Dublin’s own bold syrup flavors and a splash of cream! Perfect for that midafternoon pick-me-up.
BEANS IN THE BELFRY
122 W. Potomac St., Brunswick
Beans in the Belfry — the everadorable coffee shop located inside a restored church in Brunswick — offers a cream soda. It’s slightly different, like a lighter version of a dirty soda that uses sparkling water as the fizz component.
The barista makes it with Maison Perrier sparkling water, a couple of pumps of vanilla, or any flavored syrup you want, and a touch of heavy cream splashed on top. Once I swirled the drink around and gave it a swig, it quickly became a top contender and something I’d order again.
WAREHOUSE CINEMAS
1301 W. Patrick St., Frederick
The popular movie theater on the Golden Mile is known for creating fun, themed cocktails and mocktails to match the vibe of its new movie releases. So it’s no surprise Warehouse Cinemas sells themed dirty sodas now, too!
Currently on the menu are Woody’s Roundup, a dirty root beer for “Toy Story 5,” and Ocean’s Journey, a dirty soda with cotton candy sprinkles and colorful tropical straws for the liveaction “Moana.”
THE MARYLAND MULE
13019 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont
The fast-growing drink trend has even hit the mobile food truck business model. Say hello to The
MAKE A AT HOME
Making a dirty soda at home requires only three basic components: soda, something creamy and whatever flavored mix-in sounds good.
For a Utah-style Dirty Dr Pepper, fill a glass with ice, add Dr Pepper, pour in a splash of coconut cream or coconut-flavored coffee creamer and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime.
For something lighter, combine lemon-lime soda with vanilla syrup, a splash of half-and-half and a few maraschino cherries.
For an over-the-top version, start with black cherry or grape soda, add raspberry syrup and a spoonful of sweetened condensed milk, then top it with whipped cream.
The ratio is flexible, but three parts soda to one part creamer or syrup is a good starting point. Adjust the mixture based on how sweet and creamy you want the finished drink.
Source: Associated Press
Maryland Mule — a local beverage company on wheels specializing in dirty sodas and other nonalcoholic drinks.
You can find the trailer parked outside Catoctin Wildlife Preserve in Thurmont, serving cold, themed drinks with a portion of its sales going back to the preserve. Four dirty sodas are named after the four Arctic wolves there, and its watermelon lemonade is lovingly named after the preserve’s new baby hippo, Rhonda.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Sips is a beverage trailer that frequently sets up at The Jefferson Corn Stand, 3803 Jefferson Pike, Jefferson. It sells eight unique dirty soda specials, plus Italian sodas, PickMe-Ups — made with an energy drink like Red Bull instead of cola — and signature coffee options.
Big Belly’s, 3710 Clay St., Point of Rocks, serves dirty sodas only at farmers markets. If you’ve been lucky enough to try one, keep an eye out: The restaurant hopes to expand its menu soon so people can enjoy them there.
The hype around this sweetened beverage might be the kind of trend that has us all looking back someday on when we pumped an extra 30 milliliters of flavored syrup into our Coke.
But maybe the fixation with soda concoctions is just the beginning of their long-term impact on menus and aisles everywhere.
Only time — and taste buds — will tell.
Tiffany Mahaney is at least a fifth-
Make your own dirty soda at home this summer.
generation 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.
Associated Press/Food Drink Life
Local
CATOCTIN
MOUNTAIN ORCHARD
Available in our Market: Strawberries, Apricots Evercrisp, Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Gold Rush & Fuji Apples Rhubarb, Asparagus, Tomatoes, Spring Onions, Kale, Fresh Baked Fruit Pies, Apple Cider Donuts, Fresh Apple Cider, Flower Arrangements, Boquets Hanging Baskets, Potted Flowers
Specialty CMO Ice Cream, Fruit Slushies, Jams & Jellies
301-271-2737
Open Daily 9am-5pm 15036 North Franklinville Rd Thurmont MD www catoctinmountain orchard com
41st Annual Benefit Show at Rose Hill Manor Museum and Historic Park Living History Weekend
1611 N Market Street,Frederick Sat August 15th - Rain: 8/16
Registration 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Voting 10:30 a m -12:30 p m
Awards approx. 2 p.m.
Spectators admitted free!
Special attraction: Frederick County Fire and Rescue Museum (MINI-MUSTER)
Antique and current fire apparatus on display
Rose Hill WW II Encampment, music, food, tours, money raffle, 50/50 drawing Fun for the whole family!
MARYLAND’S FAVORITE CHICKEN RESTAURANT IS NOW OPEN
Sardi’s Authentic Peruvian flavor has arrived at:
5722 Buckeystown Pike Frederick, MD 21704
Enjoy our signature charcoal rotisserie chicken, fresh-made sides, sandwiches, salads, and authentic Peruvian dishes made with bold flavor and quality ingredients
======================
BOGO Chicken (3-PIECE DARK OR 1/4 CHICKEN)
USE CODE: FN16YRN
STORE REG CODE: 424
Not redeemable for cash One-time use only One offer per person Offer is only valid at our Frederick Buckeystown Pike location, in person, via the Sardi's app or Sardi's website Present card to use in person Not valid with other promotions
Come experience the flavor everyone is talking about!
WEEKLY BINGO
Every Friday Night
Doors open @ 5 p m , Bingo starts @ 7 p.m. Bonanza, Early Bird, Regular, Specials, Jackpot! Small Jackpot-$500 Big Jackpot-$1500 Great Food! Thurmont Event Complex 13716 Strafford Drive Thurmont, Maryland Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, Inc
TOOLS - EQUIPMENT
LANDSCAPING
Spring Cleaning • Trimming Mulching • Mowing and more Call Will Landscaping At 301-401-4463
Comercial & Residential Free estimates
Direct Support Professionals
Join DILA’s Team of Direct Support Professionals, full-time or part-time in Frederick and Potomac MD starting at $20 an hr We are looking for caring, compassionate people who enjoy assisting others live independently CMT, CPR, 1st Aid and ASL a plus but will train Excellent benefits for full-time, limited for part-time For more info or to apply go to https://dila.org/about/our-employment-opportunities/ DILA is an EOE
240-409-2991 NO TRASH IS TOO BIG, NO HAUL IS TOO SMALL!
• Trash/Junk/Yard Waste Removal
• Appliance Removal
• Bed and Mattress Removal
• Mulch Delivery
• Lawnmower & Equipment Removal
to the dump or recycled
• Landscaping/ Mulching/ Shrub Trimming
• Tree & Stump Removal
• Brush Clearing
• Fall / Spring Clean-up
• Power Washing
• Outdoor Handyman
• Snow Services
• Retaining Walls/ Fence Repair
• Farm Work FREE estimates • Insured
• Light Demo
• Welding repairs and fabrication
• Hauling needs
• Dump trailer available for rent GREAT PRICES! 20% Off 1st Job! Please call to enquire. Talkinscrap@yahoo com
Condo Rentals
EMMITSBURG
2 BD, 2nd Floor Apt, elec , util , N/P N/S, APPL , $800 + S D , For info call 240-6266514
SPACIOUS ROOM FOR RENT IN HAGERSTOWN
All utilities incl Spring/Summer Special $585 & up Nr Longmeadow, Private Bath & Private Balcony Shopping Center Senior, veterans, student, and other discounts, and Wi-Fi and cable ready Plenty of parking For info call 301-448-0957
*BEFORE 1985* ALL MAKES & MODELS ANY CONDITION RUNNING
2005 BIG DOG RIDGEBACK MOTORCYCLE
117 cu in engine, 6speed Baker trans, 2 5in Baker open belt drive, 300 rear tire, Yaffe exhaust, Award winning custom paint, approx 20,000 miles, one owner , selling due to health issues, beatiful bike asking 14000 00 Chris 240-446-5913 cwcustom63@yahoo.com
Thursday Aug. 6
CLASSES
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, hosted by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Students will practice their speaking and listening skills with conversations guided by an instructor from the LCFC. Registration is required by the LCFC. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. tinyurl.com/muadtwev.
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 anniversa-
ry 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,” “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.
DCFS Family Support Specialist — 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Need help navigating forms, benefits, or services? Representatives from the Frederick County Division of Child and Family Services will be onsite during open office hours to provide one-on-one assistance for those
families with children ages up to 24 years. Stop by to ask questions, complete paperwork, or learn about available programs. No appointment required — just drop in and get the support you need. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. tinyurl.com/2etcb9mf. 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). $8. frederick@ bridgewebsemail.com. www.bridgewebs.com/frederick/home. html.
Mike Kuster — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Company, 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Mike Kuster is returning to Tenth Ward Distilling Company for a great night of country/Americana music in 2026! Handcrafted cocktails, a laid-back atmosphere, and live original music from IMN Songwriter of the Year Mike Kuster, featuring songs like “Corn Fed” and other crowd favorites. 301-662-3355. mike@mikekuster.net. mikekuster.net/tour.
Almost Ladies Night - Rooftop Comedy Series — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 12 Stories , 75 District Square Southwest #12th floor , Washington, D.C.. Discover one of D.C.’s most unique nightlife experiences at Almost Ladies Night, a luxury rooftop comedy series at 12 Stories Rooftop at The Wharf. Featuring nationally touring comedians, live music, and a lively social atmosphere, the event offers guests a perfect blend of entertainment and scenic city views. 21 and older.
Summerfest Family Theatre: Theatricks presents Mark Lohr Classic Comedy Show — 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Baker Park Band Shell, North Bentz and Second streets, Frederick. Mark uses the circus skills of juggling, plate spinning, hat tricks, and more to hilariously entertain the young and the young at heart. A smorgasbord of family fun guaranteed to leave the entire family rolling in the aisles! Mark has toured extensively with his unique blend of circus and slapstick comedy, wowing audiences wherever he goes! Bring a canned food item for the city’s Foodbank Program. 301-600-2841. celebratefrederick.com.
Preschooler/Kindergarten refresher camp: Camp Silver 2026 — 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library - Programming Room, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Sruthi, a rising Junior, is conducting a kindergarten readiness camp this summer. We’d love to welcome families with rising kindergarteners, kids who need a refresher, and want to learn something new to join. campsilver123@gmail.com. forms.gle/387eSbkp1AbVaU288.
Farmyard Friends — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at E. Eugene Myers Community Park, 201 W. Lincoln Ave., Emmitsburg. Join us for some fun with live animals as we moo, baa, quack and oink our way into our Zootopia 2 movie night! 301-600-6329. fcpl.org.
On-site at the FCPL Film Festival: “Zootopia” 2 (PG) — 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at E. Eugene Myers Community Park, 201 W. Lincoln Ave., Emmitsburg. This event is located a few blocks away from the Emmitsburg Branch Library. “Zootopia 2” will
start on the big screen at 8:30 p.m. but join us at 7:30 p.m. when the fun really begins! Pre-movie activities and entertainment for the entire family include: 301-600-6329. fcpl.org.
MUSIC
Porch Concert at Epigram Coffee - ACMF Summer Festival — noon to at Epigram Coffee, 460 Washington St., Harpers Ferry, W.Va. Bringing music straight into the heart of the community is the foundation of ACMF’s mission. Our new Porch Concert Series features both ACMF and local musicians collaborating and performing around Harpers Ferry, at businesses, landmarks and community hotspots. Featuring music by the Danish String Quartet. www.facebook.com/share/1CnLNBmMqr/. Alive@Five: Ballistic Berry — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Outdoor Amphiteatre, between Market and Carroll streets, Frederick. Indie rock. Food, beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails. 21+ only, valid ID required. Drink tokens $7 each.
$5 cash or credit. downtownfrederick.org.
RECREATION
Open Duckpin Bowling — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Walkersville Lanes, 44 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville. Hosted by Senior Recreation Council. Not league bowling. Requires $10 annual dues. Cost is weekly cost of bowling. See website and contact coordinator. 240-651-1865. g.blessing@ieee.org. srcfrederick.org.
Friday Aug. 7
ETCETERA
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.
Dog Days of Summer — 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Carroll County Public Library, Eldersburg Branch, 6400 W. Hemlock Drive, Eldersburg. For all ages. Join us for a tail-wagging good time at Dog Days of Summer, a fun-filled celebration of all things dog! Kids will enjoy various festive stations and activities perfect for every dog lover. 410-386-4460. ask@carr.org. ccpl.librarymarket.com/event/dog-dayssummer-295372.
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/.
Guided Exhibit Tours — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Experience the Museum of Frederick County History through a guided tour. Join the staff and volunteers who curated our 2026 exhibits as they explore our various galleries. Each tour is a unique experience based on the interests of the group and what special things staff wants to highlight that week. Descriptions of each week’s tour can be found on the Heritage Frederick website, which includes accessibility notes. Tours are included with admission! $5, $10. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org. frederickhistory.org/events/.
K-Pop Celebration (Ages 11-18) — 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Celebrate the cultural of K-Pop with song, dance, games, and crafts! 301-600-7000.
A Summer Soirée at Loew Vineyards — 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Loew Vineyards, 14001 Liberty Road, Mount Airy. Join us for our first end of summer soirée at the winery! Enjoy our wines and meads while listening to music, and local food while seeing our beautiful countryside sunset. There is no cost but reservations are required. 21 and over.
Larval Organs, Fuzztide Jones & The Swamp Whompers — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Sandbox Brewhouse, 880 N. East St., Frederick. Join Larval Organs for a special hometown show featuring guest performances from Lancaster, Pa.’s Fuzztide Jones and Baltimore’s The Swamp Whompers. Showtime at 7 p.m. 21 and older, RSVP. $10. tinyurl.com/2zhchp53.
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. 301-668-8922. info@marylandghosttours.com. www.MarylandGhostTours.com.
Summer Shadow w/ guest Unsocial Media — 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. A night of 2000s alt-rock with two awesome cover bands playing some of the best alt-rock, indie-rock, and classic rock songs from the past 30+ years. This is a high-energy show sure to get you on your feet and singing along!
“Dolly The Polka Dotted Llama” — noon to at Dance Unlimited, 244B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Join us for a free, family-friendly show that celebrates what makes us unique. Meet Dolly, a one-of-a-kind llama, learning to embrace her vibrant polka dots among the zoo animals. Will a grumpy lion ruin her day, or can Dolly’s dazzling spots save everyone? This heartwarming live theater event, performed by our talented actors, offers a fun and inspiring message of acceptance for kids of all ages. 301-662-3722. danceunlimited@performingartsfactory.com. www.danceunlimitedfrederick.com/.
Kids Yoga — 2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. at Kentlands Mansion , 320 Kent Square Road , Gaithersburg . Class is taught in a supportive, inclusive, non-competitive environment by an instructor trained in yoga and mindfulness for children. Gentle relaxation and guided meditation help children develop emotional awareness, resilience, and confidence they can use both on and off the mat. Ages 8-11.
Preschooler/Kindergarten refresher camp: Camp Silver 2026 — 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library - Programming Room, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Sruthi, a rising Junior, is conducting a kindergarten readiness camp this summer. We’d love to welcome families with rising kindergarteners, kids who need a refresher, and want to learn something new to join. campsilver123@gmail.com. forms.gle/387eSbkp1AbVaU288.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” — 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Performing Arts Factory, 244B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Other Voices Theatre brings the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to life onstage this summer. After having prophetic dreams, Joseph’s jealous brothers sell him into slavery in Egypt where, despite all the odds, Joseph’s dreams ultimately come true.
Movie Knight — 7 p.m. to 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.
MUSIC
Porch Concert — 1 p.m. to at Bolivar Bread Bakery, 914 Washington St., Harpers Ferry, W.Va. No tickets needed! Bringing music straight into the heart of the community is
the foundation of ACMF’s mission. The new Porch Concert Series features both ACMF and local musicians collaborating and performing around Harpers Ferry, at businesses, landmarks and community hotspots. This pop-up concert will feature Danielle Wiebe Burke, viola and Sam Suggs, bass. tinyurl.com/4bp4pert.
Bethesda’s Summer Concert Series — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Woodmont Triangle, 7900 Norfolk Ave., Bethesda. Every Friday, free outdoor concerts by some of the best bands in the DMV! Tables and chairs can fill up quickly, so be sure to arrive early to grab your seat. For the full summer lineup, please visit Bethesda.org. 301-215-6660. sparker@bethesda.org. www.bethesda.org/summer-concert-series/.
“I Got Rhythm” - ACMF Summer Festival — 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. at Storer College Green, 51 Mather Place, Harpers Ferry, W.Va. In partnership with the National Park Service, we celebrate America’s 250th birthday through the music of two American icons, Don Redman and George Gershwin. The ACMF festival musicians collaborate with the Howard Burns Quartet for a fusion of jazz and strings, in the historic setting of Storer College Green, Harpers Ferry. Reservations required.
buytickets.at/acmf/2213056.
Sky Stage Swing Dance — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Swing dance nights hosted by Revolution Modern Dance’s Amanda Comi and colleagues will start with a brief lesson for beginners at 7pm followed by social dancing until 10pm to jazz, blues, and soul music. Occurs every first Friday May through October.
Gabby Barrett in Concert — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, 750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, W.Va. Delivering her most autobiographical work to date with the sought-after sophomore release of “Chapter & Verse,” Warner Music Nashville’s MULTI-PLATINUM star Gabby Barrett continues to intimately narrate her life with current single “Dance Like No One’s Watching.” 21 and older. $52 and up.
Softball: Senior Recreation Council — 6 p.m. to at Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick. Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Practice at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Games at 6:30 p.m. Friday. Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.
srcfrederick@gmail.com. srcfrederick.org.
THEATER
“Grease” — 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theater, 05 Willowtree Plaza #A1, Frederick. Mainstage MusicalDinner & Show. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. (*Contains adult language, themes and situations.)
Key City Improv at MET Comedy Night — 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Our home-grown heroes are back! During the Holidays of 2021 a group of Ensemble School improv students formed Key City, specializing in short form improv! $17. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org.
tinyurl.com/hp39abxp.
Saturday Aug. 8
“Law & Order SIU: Special Improv Unit” — 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at New Spire Stages, 15 W. Patrick St. , Frederick . Second show at 7:30 p.m. “Law & Order SIU” is a full episode of Law & Order, fully improvised and full of Frederick flavor! MidAtlantic Improv brings you America’s longest running procedural created from your suggestions, be-
fore your very eyes! From the discovery of the victim (played by an audience member) to cynical quips from detectives to lawyers berating every witness on the stand, you will get the complete “Law & Order” experience right down to a verdict — decided by you. $15-20. info@midatlanticimprov.com. weinbergcenter.org.
CLASSES
Heartsaver CPR/First Aid/AED Adult Child Infant for the Layperson — 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Frederick Community College, The Monroe Center, 200 Monroe Ave., Frederick. Learn critical skills needed to respond to and manage an emergency until emergency medical services arrives. Skills development focuses on first aid; choking relief in adults, children, and infants. Instruction also covers what to do for sudden cardiac arrest in adults, children and infants. Pre-registration is required. $85. 240-629-7907. HealthcareCareers@ frederick.edu. frederick.augusoft.net
Freedom Bang Fitness Class — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Freedom Bang is a pre-choreographed fusion of boxing, HIIT, hip hop, world dance, optional weighted gloves and just a touch of attitude. Offering a wide range of intensity options to help you customize your workout. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.
Rhythm of Belonging: Song Circle — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Sol Yoga Earth Room, 256 West Patrick St., Frederick. Join Amanda
Lucia in song and heart coherence, where music becomes a bridge for belonging. Together, we’ll explore medicine songs for Earth and collective liberation, guiding us into deeper connection with ourselves and one another. Through vocal toning, call-and-response and improv layering, our voices will weave into a living, breathing tapestry. $20-$40. amandaluciaart@gmail. com. linktr.ee/amandaluciaart.
ETCETERA
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.
Field Fresh Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Come visit the largest producer-only farmers market in Frederick County, featuring over 30 local vendors! Open every Saturday to Nov. 21. www.fieldfreshfarmersmarket.com/.
Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Thurmont Community Park, 19 Frederick Road, Thurmont. The largest farmers market in Frederick County. A large variety of fresh produce, fruit, baked goods, locally made sauces, rubs, locally raised beef, chicken, & eggs, homemade breads, bagels, & hand sewn items. It’s not just a Farmers Market, it’s an event! 240-741-2600. mlittle@thurmontstaff.com. thurmontmainstreet.com. Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market
— 9 a.m. to noon at 19 Frederick Road, 19 Frederick Road, Thurmont. A large variety of fresh produce, fruit, baked goods, locally made sauces, rubs, locally raised beef, chicken, & eggs, homemade breads, bagels, baked goods & hand sewn items. It’s not just a Farmers Market, it’s an event! thurmontmainstreet.com/events/thurmontmain-street-farmers-market-8.
Carroll County Farmer’s Market during the 4-H Fair — 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Carroll County Agriculture Center, 700 Agriculture Drive, Westminster. The Farmer’s Market will be set up outside under tents on the lower field during the 4-H Fair. Use the new entrance to the Ag Center off of Gist Road, located between Smith Avenue and Center Street. Look for the red and white tent on the left side of the road. 410-848-7748. ccfm@comcast.net.
www.carrollcountyfarmersmarket.com.
“No Frills” Craft Day — 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Brook Hill United Methodist Church, 8946 Indian Springs Road, Frederick. Bring whatever craft you would like to work on and join us for the day! Bring your snacks, lunch and drinks. A refrigerator and microwave are available on site. The organizer, Shelley Freeze, is a scrapbook consultant, so some scrapbook supplies will be available for purchase. The best part is getting to socialize and meet other like minded people who love to create and craft. This is a fundraiser for the church, so your registration fee, goes towards missions in the community. 18 and older.
Elevated Architecture Double Decker Bus Tour — 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Museum of Frederick County History, 24 E Church St, Frederick. Many of the defining features of historic Frederick’s charming architecture are found high above the streets in upper stories, cornices and spires. Discover beautifully preserved examples of commercial, residential, religious, and public buildings displaying major American and European styles that span more than two centuries. Along the way, we’ll explore how the history of Frederick is told by the enduring structures that witnessed it. $49. outreach@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org/event/elevated-architecture-double-decker-bus-tour/2026-06-13/.
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 Apple Core — 10 a.m. to noon at Walkersville United Methodist Church, 22 Main St., Walkersville. A Macintosh User Group, meets the second Saturday of each month. Follow Apple Logo signs. Users of Apple and similar products (MacBooks, iMacs, Mac Pro, iPhone, iPod, iPad, iWatch, etc.) are invited to attend. All ages. bobesposito@mac.com.
frederickapple.org.
Frederick Farmers Market (new location) — 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Westside Regional Park, 632 Contender Way, Frederick. frederickfarmersmarket.com.
America 250 Bus Tour: Revolution & Remembrance — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Baltimore Visitor Center, 401 Light St., Baltimore, NY. Baltimore was a key city in the fight for Independence. Did you know Edgar Allan Poe’s grandparents were famous Revolutionary War patriots in Baltimore? Join this America 250 bus tour through Baltimore’s Revolutionary past, where the fight for independence lives on in headstone, story and street. Along the way, discover the Edgar Allan Poe family’s Revolutionary roots and the lives of Baltimore’s signers of the Declaration of Independence. Tours meet inside the Baltimore Visitor Center at the Inner Harbor.
$49 to $59. 877-225-8466. tours@poebaltimore.org. book.peek.com.
Live Music: The Dirty Middle — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Steinhardt Brewing Company, 340 E. Patrick St., Suite 100-102, Frederick . Local blues rock band the Dirty Middle with new music and old favorites! www.facebook.com/share/19LrhUdvZw/.
The Midnight Moving Company Live on Stage — 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. You won’t forget this. ‘80s–2000s party hits on shuffle. Two lead vocalists trading off. Real singalong moments. Don’t be surprised if the mic lands in the crowd. $5 cover. All ages (100% of the cover goes to
the band — come show your support for great music!).
$5. 240-575-9755. info@rockwellbrewery. com. tinyurl.com/58de23km. Oversoon, with Liza Hill — 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Oversoon is a Mechanicsburg, Pa.-based groovy pop trio made up of brothers Daniel (keys, vocals), Jordan (drums), and Jared Diethrich (bass). They’ll be performing songs from their soon-tobe-released album of 10 songs. A recent graduate of Nashville’s Belmont University with a degree in songwriting, indie-pop artist Liza Hill came up through the Let There Be Rock School of Frederick. $10, under age 12 free. 301-662-4190. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. tinyurl.com/3bb459z2.
FAMILY
Mini & Me Crafting: Fruit Stamping — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Talley Rec Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick. Grab your favorite grown-up and get ready for a summer of Mini & Me Crafting! We’re bringing back the ‘90s with throwback DIYs, creating magical dream-themed projects, and even making masterpieces with your food. Join us every 2nd Saturday for some serious one-on-one fun and a whole lot of creativity!
$6 city / $10 non-city. 240-344-8760. hboswell@cityoffrederickmd.gov. tinyurl.com/uxf2k2rb.
Community & Craft: Fruit Stamping Tote Bag — 11 a.m. to noon at Talley Rec Center,
121 N. Bentz St., Frederick. Join us for a fun and relaxed crafting class that is perfect for all experience levels. We will make a new project covering a different medium every class. This is a great place to connect with others and relax while being creative. $10 city resident / $15 Non-city resident. 240-344-8760. hboswell@cityoffrederickmd.gov. tinyurl.com/y6fzt6hp.
Blooms & Bovines: PYO Flowers & Highland Cows at Black Rock Farm — 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Black Rock Farm, 3002 Black Rock Road, Myersville. Pre-purchased tickets required, no at the door admission. A pick-your-own flower event paired with a hands-on Highland cow experience! Your one-hour time slot on the farm will include wagon ride to the flower field, keepsake farm Mason jar mug, one dozen zinnias that you hand-cut, a Highland cow flower pick, hands-on time to brush and feed the real-life Highland cows. Cloud Splitter Coffee will be on site with beverages available for purchase for all dates/times of this event! $40, ages 3 and under free. 443-921-5364. blackrockhighlands@gmail.com. www.blackrock-farm.com/events/ blooms-bovines.
Explore Frederick City’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. 301-663-3885. info@fredericklandmarks.org. fredericklandmarks.org.
Camp Night — 5 p.m. to at Watkins Park , 615 Center St., Mount Airy. Come celebrate the Town’s birthday at the annual Mount Airy Camp Night, hosted by the Parks and Recreation Board, the event provides a chance to spend the night in the park, hone camping skills and meet other residents. The Town’s local scout troops and organizations offer games and Dutch oven cooking demonstrations. Local food trucks will be on-hand to buy dinner and treats. Grab a chair and blanket to enjoy an outdoor movie night with s’mores around a campfire. This year’s movie is “Muppet Treasure Island.” Bring your own tent and camping supplies including a flashlight. The fun begins at 5 p.m. No registration is required to attend unless you will be spending the night. The Town provides light breakfast fare to campers in the morning. 301-829-1424. nhernandez@mountairymd. gov. www.mountairymd.gov.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” — 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Performing Arts Factory, 244B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Other Voices Theatre brings the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to life onstage this summer. After having prophetic dreams, Joseph’s jealous brothers sell him into slavery in Egypt where, despite all the odds, Joseph’s dreams ultimately come true.
16th Annual Car, Truck, Motorcycle, Tractor & Specialty Vehicle Show — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Middletown Volunteer Fire Department Activities Building, 1 Fireman’s Lane, Middletown. Rain date, Aug. 9. $15 registration fee (ends at noon). Awards at 3 p.m. Food available, music. Benefits the MVFC Auxiliary. 301--471-9604. jnalborczyk007@comcast. net.
Mount Tabor Church Big Picnic — 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mount Tabor Church Park, 13616 Motters Station Road, Rocky Ridge. Baby Show registration from 2-3 p.m. with the Baby Show beginning at 3. Open to all babies 24 months and younger. Music by Tall in the Saddle from 4-8 p.m. Small yard sale. Tractor ride thru the community will begin at 11 a.m.; line up begins at 10 a.m. Of course, all the homemade food you’ve come to love: sandwiches, soup, fries, ice cream and sweet tea. And ….”Home of the Big Slide.”
301-606-2150. Kacky6@aol.com.
FILM
Virtual 50+ Community Center Documentary Series — 10 a.m. to at Virtual event, Frederick. Explore a variety of topics in our virtual Documentary Series, offered twice each month. Participants will watch a featured film together, followed by a group discussion to share insights and reflections.
Join us to learn something new, connect with others, and enjoy engaging conversations in a welcoming environment. Pre-registration required: Email VirtualSeniorCenter@FrederickCountyMD.gov to sign up. 301-788-1075. VirtualSeniorCenter@FrederickCountyMD.gov. www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Virtual50.
MUSIC
Saturday Live Acoustic — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Shab Row Stage, 100 N. East St., Frederick. Listen to local/regional acoustic musicians perform behind the Frederick Coffee Co & Cafe. Relax in Adirondack chairs, smell the flowers, drink your coffee, enjoy a sandwich or muffin, and be entertained. 301-639-1050. todd@toddcwalker.com.
August Barnyard Band & Booze — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Green Meadows Petting Farm, 10102 Fingerboard Road, Ijamsville. Featuring Guys In Thin Ties for an evening concert on the lawn (rain or shine). The band will begin playing at 6 p.m. Various distilleries, wineries, food and more on-site. Enjoy an adult beverage purchased from one of our vendors. The Animal Barn will also be open. Bring your blankets, chairs & friends. Children are welcome. $15 to $18, credit only, for ages 2 and older. 301-865-9203. info@greenmeadowsevents.com. greenmeadowsevents.com/outdoor-music-venue.
Richard Marx in Concert — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, 750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, W.Va. A Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and producer whose career has spanned four decades of chart success and creative reinvention. With over 45 million albums sold, one billion streams, and 14 No. 1 singles to his name, Marx is the only male artist in history to have his first seven singles reach the Top 5 on the Billboard charts, and one of only two artists —alongside Michael Jackson — to write a No. 1 song in four different decades. 21 and older. $47 and up. www.hollywoodcasinocharlestown.com/ entertainment.
POLITICS
Freedom of the Press in 2026: A Talk & Discussion with Award-Winning Investigative Journalist Frank Smyth — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Frederick Book Arts Center, 127 S. Carroll St., Frederick. The U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment makes press freedom central to the new nation. However, throughout the past 250 years, journalism has always had to fight for this right. FBAC‘s current exhibition, “America Punctuated” includes a traveling exhibition organized by Maryland Humanities on the history of the free press in Maryland. This event will feature an extended session of civil discussion and debate. Everyone welcome. 301-228-9816. corrine.wilson@fredbookartscenter.org. www.facebook.com/share/1V7usU8yVQ/.
RECREATION
Dedicated to Daniel Basketball Tournament & Community Day Event — 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Kellerton Park, Dedicated to Daniel Basketball Tournament &
Community Day Event, 8600 Rocky Springs Road, Frederick. Everyone welcome, all ages. This event will feature a community basketball tournament, family activities, food, fellowship and opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations surrounding mental health, wellness and suicide prevention. Registration begins at 2 p.m. connect@dedicatedtodanielfoundation.org.dedicatedtodanielfoundation.org.
THEATER
“High School Musical” One-Act Edition — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theater, 05 Willowtree Plaza #A1, Frederick. Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life on your stage in Disney’s “High School Musical”! Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends and family while balancing their classes and extra-curricular activities. Ticket includes your choice of an all-beef hot dog or pizza, served with potato chips. Full bar featuring cocktails and mocktails, beer, wine & spirits available for purchase.
“Grease” — 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theater, 05 Willowtree Plaza #A1, Frederick. Mainstage MusicalDinner & Show. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. (*Contains adult language, themes and situations.) $75. 301-662-6600. boxoffice@wayoffbroadway.com. www.wayoffbroadway.com.
Sunday Aug. 9 CLASSES
All-levels Yoga with Yogamour — 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Join the Yogamour Team for another season of our all levels yoga classes in the open air venue at Sky Stage located at 59 Carroll Street in the heart of Downtown Frederick, most* Sunday mornings May 10-Sept 27. Please bring a yoga mat and water with you. Free parking at street meters on Sundays. $20 or $15 each with 10-class package. 301-662-4196. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. yogamour.org.
Magic Creative: How a Card Becomes More than Rules (Ages 13-25) — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Creating a Magic: The Gathering card is a years-long process from the inception of an idea to the finished product you open from a booster pack. In this presentation, Jay Annelli, Magic’s Loremaster, will talk about the creative side of making a Magic card, from card concepts to flavor text. Afterwards there will be time to trade, battle, and talk with fellow players! 301-600-7000.
ETCETERA
Mount Airy Cars and Coffee — 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Municipal Lot 1, beside Chew-
ey’s Performance Automotive, 1 Veterans Way, Mount Airy. Want to see some of the most incredible cars in the area, talk with community members who also love automobiles and get some coffee? Come check out Mount Airy Cars & Coffee. 301-829-5315. mountairymd.gov.
Grocery Store Buyout — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Weis Markets, 448 Prospect Blvd., Frederick. For Frederick Week exists to do something that matters by meeting the needs of organizations that support Frederick County residents through physical, financial, mental, and emotional assistance. This impactful week begins Aug. 2 and ends with our annual Grocery Store Buyout on Aug. 9. Sign up to help us reach our goals! Or simply show up with your family on the 9th to shop the shelves for those in need. This year we plan to fill 600 volunteer roles and serve a collective 2000 hours. See website for the week’s projects. 443-617-2404. kaitepauline@gmail.com. www.mycollective.church/frederickweek. 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. frederickcitymarket.com.
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.
Mechaya Release Party at Loew Vineyards — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Loew Vineyards, 14001 Liberty Road, Mount Airy. Join us for the release of Maryland’s first Star-K certified mead! Enjoy pizza from Baltimore Pizza Guy and a glass (or bottle) of Mechaya while listening to some tunes. Tickets are required to attend. $36. 301-831-5464. info@loewvineyards. net.
Spacie Gracie Bridal Event — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Spacie Gracie, 543 N. Market St., Frederick. Meet local wedding professionals, enjoy interactive demonstrations, enter to win exciting giveaways, and discover inspiration for every celebration before and after “I Do.” 301-660-2460. Events@Spacie-Gracie.com. www.eventbrite.com/e/ring-aroundthe-vendors-the-before-after-ido-wedding-experience-tickets1994633337005?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.
Civil War Style Worship Service — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Historic Rocky Springs Chapel, 7817 Rocky Springs Road, Frederick. Join a Civil War-style church service. For more information emai kmcallison@verizon.net 240-656-0254. kmcallison@verizon.net. kmcallison@verizon.net.
Summerween: Paranormal 101 — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Library, 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Join Chesapeake Paranormal for a spooky summer afternoon! They will be sharing stories of their paranormal investigations and introduce you to the equipment they use. espangler@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.
Spay-ghetti Buffet Dinner — 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at New Midway Volunteer Fire Co., 12019 Woodsboro Pike, New Midway. Join us for our Spay-ghetti & No balls Fundraiser Dinner! Every ticket helps cover the high cost of spay/neuter surgeries for the over 100 dogs we have altered per year. Preventing overpopulation via spay/neuter and heartworm treatment are just some of the lifesaving, and expensive expenses we cover as a 100% volunteer and donation based rescue.
Mount Olivet Cemetery History And Mystery Tour — 7:15 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 515 S. Market St., Frederick. Discover Frederick’s past as we navigate through the labyrinth of graves, crypts and monuments of Historic Mount Olivet Cemetery. Tour includes intriguing facts about the cemetery’s origin, tombstone design, grave robbing, mass graves, plus stops at other distinctive burial plots, including Revolutionary War, War of 1812 and Civil War. Tour concludes with a visit to the Key Memorial Chapel. Reservations required. (This is not a ghost tour.)
$17 for adults. 301-668-8922. info@MarylandGhostTours.com. marylandghosttours.com.
FAMILY
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” — 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Performing Arts Factory, 244B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Other Voices Theatre brings the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to life onstage this summer. After having prophetic dreams, Joseph’s jealous brothers sell him into slavery in Egypt where, despite all the odds, Joseph’s dreams ultimately come true.
Explore Frederick City’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. 301-663-3885. info@fredericklandmarks.org. fredericklandmarks.org.
MUSIC
Sunday Brunch Concert Series — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Shab Row Stage, 100 N. East
St., Frederick. Enjoy live acoustic music at the prettiest music stage in Maryland. The Shab Row Stage is located behind the Frederick Coffee Co & Cafe. Relax in Adirondack chairs, smell the flowers, feel the breeze, enjoy your coffee, muffin or sandwich, and relax to live acoustic music. 301-639-1050. todd@toddcwalker.com.
Summer Concert Series: Radio King Orchestra — 7 p.m. to at Baker Park Bandshell, Second and Bentz streets, Frederick. Swing. In lieu of admission please bring a canned food donation to benefit the Frederick Housing and Human Services food bank. 50/50 raffle, food trucks. 301-600-2844. celebratefrederick.com.
GreenSpring Music Festival Opening Concert – Faculty Concert — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Utica, 10621 Old Frederick Road, Thurmont. During the opening night of the GreenSpring Festival, hear our faculty perform a variety of solo and ensemble works. The music festival continues through Aug. 15. Complete schedule and details: https:// www.greenspringmusic.org/greenspringfestivalschedule.804-484-2187. lediger@ greenspringmusic.org.
OUTDOORS
A Longer Quiet Hike — 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro. Enjoy a peaceful, quiet group hike on a less-populated trail in Greenbrier. Hike is ~1.25 miles on maintained trails. Beginner/intermediate difficulty. 9AM.
Water to Wine: Big Cork — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brunswick Family Campground , 40 Canal Road , Brunswick . Paddlers will enjoy a 5.5-mile broad scenic section of the Potomac River. There are single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and canoes available for this trip. The mellow section of the river allows for relaxation, sunbathing, and wildlife viewing. Great blue herons, egrets, and the return of the bald eagle make this a kayak or canoe trip to remember! The minimum age for this trip is 18 years of age. Must be 21+ to partake in wine tasting; no discount if under 21.
“Grease” — 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theater, 05 Willowtree Plaza #A1, Frederick. Mainstage MusicalDinner & Show. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. (*Contains adult language, themes and situations.) $75. 301-662-6600. boxoffice@wayoffbroadway.com. www.wayoffbroadway.com.
