72 HOURS August 14, 2025

AUGUST 14

The MET presents the LGBTQ rock musical ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’

‘UNAPOLOGETIC’

ESTONIA’S MUSICAL AMBASSADORS COME TO TOWN

When 32 Estonian voices fill the Jack B. Kussmaul Theater on Aug. 20, audiences will witness something remarkable: the living embodiment of a nation that literally sang itself to freedom. The Tartu Academic Male Choir, now in its 113th year, is a testament to the power of collective voice in the face of oppression. Founded in 1912 in Estonia’s cultural capital, this volunteer ensemble has survived Soviet occupation, multiple conductors and the challenges of keeping men engaged in choral singing. Their Frederick performance, hosted by the Choral Arts Society of Frederick, showcases a unique cultural exchange where local CASF families will house the visiting singers — a first for the organization. Former CASF member Meelis Jõesaar, now a tenor with TAC, serves as the bridge between these two communities, united by their love of choral tradition. The program features works entirely by Estonian composers and is free and open to the public.

“LAW & ORDER” — BUT IMPROVISED THEATRICAL MAYHEM

The familiar “dun-DUN” sound effect takes on new meaning when “Law & Order: Special Improv Unit” returns to New Spire Arts Stage for performances this month. Creator Michael Harris has crafted something deliciously absurd: a fully improvised episode of America’s longest-running procedural, complete with Frederick-specific crimes and local landmarks serving as crime scenes. The 75-minute performance follows the classic TV format from body discovery through trial verdict, with audience members playing victim, selecting crime locations and serving as jury. Audience participation ensures no two performances are identical. Shows run at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 16 and 2 p.m. Aug. 17 at 15 W. Patrick St., where justice will be served with a healthy dose of laughter.

WHEN BASEBALL MEETS BRUSHSTROKES

Art in the Park on Aug. 15 will transform Harry Grove Stadium into a gallery where sports and visual arts converge. The Frederick Keys will sport limited-edition jerseys designed by local artist Jackie Clark, plein-air artists will be stationed throughout the stadium to capture the ballpark atmosphere in real time, plus guests can enjoy hands-on art activities and a silent auction of player-decorated baseballs. First pitch is at 7 p.m. for this special collab between the Keys and the Frederick Arts Council.

ANIMATED SHORTS AT THE VOX HOUSE

CineFridays presents Festival Flashback Animated Shorts on Aug. 15, offering a sophisticated exploration of what makes animated films uniquely powerful storytelling vehicles. Come by the Vox House to watch 11 international short films, curated from past Frederick Film Festival highlights. Admission is free in the intimate setting above 7th Sister restaurant, and films start promptly at 8 p.m., with drinks and snacks available for purchase from your seat.

HEDWIG’S UNAPOLOGETIC ANTHEM ROCKS THE MET STAGE

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch” arrives at Maryland Ensemble Theatre Aug. 15-23, brought to life by a team of Frederick thespians who’ve spent six years planning this dream production. Director Anna See-Jachowski and musical director Eric Jones, both Frederick natives, have assembled this gender-bending rock musical in partnership with The Frederick Center, with performance donations supporting local LGBTQ community resources. Get tickets and see how rock music and personal truth collide in spectacular fashion.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Share your community stories and events with us! Email llarocca@newspost.com.

What’s in a name: New 7th Sister restaurant pays homage to building’s history

The recently opened 7th Sister pays homage to the six sisters that came before it.

Carrie Delente, a partner in the business, said six sisters came from one of the wealthiest families in Frederick at the time. They helped to establish a hospital, invested in the arts and contributed to causes throughout the city and region.

WHAT’S GOOD?

Know of a great restaurant, bartender, food truck or farmers market? Found a new favorite dish or mocktail in your neighborhood? Let us know! We are always looking for people and places within our community to feature in our Eat & Drink section. Email 72 Hours editor Lauren LaRocca at llarocca@ newspost.com.

Those sisters — Catherine, Georgianna, Elizabeth, Ellen, Emma and Matilda — also built the home on North Market Street in 1890 that would later become the restaurant Volt and is now 7th Sister.

“I wanted to bring the history back,” Delente said.

Some sisters married and left the now-historic building, but all six died in the house.

“We wanted the building to have its own voice and to tell stories about all the things that have happened here,” Delente said.

That story lives on in the second act of the building.

In the 1930s, after the last sister died and there was no one to inherit the home, it became a professional building, according to Delente. Dentists, doctors and businesses filled the rooms that once housed the sisters.

“This is where you came for everything,” Delente said.

There is still a software company and surgical imaging company in the building, carrying on that portion of the legacy.

When it came to what kind of food to offer, Delente and executive chef Christian Blouin knew exactly what they wanted to do: Maryland staples. Delente grew up in Annapolis, and Blouin has lived in Frederick for more than 30 years. Blouin has cooked seafood for over 20 years, including the past 10 spent running restaurants in downtown Frederick.

They are continuing the legacy of the sisters and the building in this next phase of its existence.

“We’re giving the building, in my mind, the presence that it deserves, and really giving this building a voice and talking about the history,” Delente said.

— Cameron Adams

7TH SISTER

288 North Market Street, Frederick 7thsister.com

Hours: 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday; 4 to 9 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday. Price: Starters and salads from $12 to $19. Oysters are six for $18 or 12 for $30. Sandwiches around $20 and entrees from $36 to $60. Chef Christian Blouin recommends: Crabcakes. It is a Maryland raised jumbo lump crab cake served on braised kale, asparagus, sweet potatoes and an Old Bay gribiche made from scratch. The restaurant uses gluten-free panko breading. “I’ve been making crabcakes for 20 years, and I definitely stand by this one,” Blouin said.

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

The interior of 7th Sister in Frederick.

Staff photo by Katina Zentz

The jumbo lump crab cake is shown at 7th Sister in Frederick.

BY IAN CHEN

Oldest continuously-running male choir will perform in Frederick

Special to The News-Post

On the evening of Aug. 20, the 113-year-old Tartu Academic Male Choir will fill the Jack B. Kussmaul Theater with the sonorous power of 32 Estonian voices in perfect harmony — a centuries old tradition rooted in resistance and national pride.

Founded in 1912 in the city of Tartu — widely-know as the cultural capital of Estonia — the TAC is the country’s oldest continuously-running male choir. It first began as a student choir but eventually expanded into an academic choir for all men with an academic background, and the singers’ ages range from 16 to 75.

The all-volunteer choir rehearses only two times a week, as members must juggle day jobs, family commitments and other hobbies, yet they still remain widely regarded as Estonia’s best nonprofessional male choir.

Their Frederick concert will be the third in a North American tour that includes two other stops in Maryland: a joint Silver Spring concert with the Baltimore-Washington Estonian Mixed Choir and a show in Salisbury, Tartu’s sister town.

The Choral Arts Society of Frederick, Frederick’s oldest community chorus, will be hosting them.

“We have a bond in that we are both community organizations, in that we’re all volunteers, and that people really come together in both our groups for the preservation of the art of choral singing,” said CASF director Lynn Staininger.

Meelis Jõesaar, a tenor in the TAC, was the original reason why the two choirs came together. Years ago, before moving to Estonia, he sang and played piano for the CASF.

“We were on the precipice of being granted 33 new family members. So no brainer. We absolutely said yes,” Staininger said. “They’re going to offer us folk music from their home country and the chance to hear a different cultural sound, because choral music takes on different characteristics throughout the world.”

The TAC singers will be staying in the homes of CASF families — the first time the CASF has done this for a choir from overseas.

“It gives us a much better chance to have a cultural outreach,” Staininger said, “to get to know a few people well enough to send them a holiday card

IF YOU GO

Tartu Academic Male Choir will perform at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 20 at the JBK Theater at the campus of FCC. Admission is free.

and, when we’re visiting over there, to drop in and visit them.”

Staininger calls their 113-year-old continuation a “miracle of musical existence. “They really have never had a time in their history where they have stopped singing. They’ve done very diverse programs. They’ve had multiple conductors,” she said. “They’ve survived through occupation by the USSR. To be a volunteer organization and to be in existence through that is remarkable.”

Staininger encourages people to attend the concert, which is free and seating is first come, first served.

“We are hoping to welcome them with a really lovely crowd,” she said. “Music is that universal bond that makes us all work together to create a beautiful product, no matter what country you are from. I’ve sung all over the world with

some absolutely lovely people, and they become your family.”

Jako Arula, president of the TAC, says that the goal of embarking on a North American tour is to spread Estonian choir.

“We’re such a small country. Even all the Baltic states’ combined population is smaller than some of the cities in the U.S.,” he said. “We want to make ourselves more seen in the world.”

Estonian choir is a centuries-old tradition, but it first started becoming more formalized in 1869, with their first-ever song festival. Back then, only male choirs were allowed to sing, in stark contrast to the present day, where all-male choirs are often overshadowed by mixed, women’s and children’s choirs.

“It’s not easy to keep men singing in male choirs,” Arula said. “Our goal is to keep this style of choir alive, promote it as much as we can … and be an example for other smaller choirs from smaller towns.”

Estonian choral tradition is especially famous for its role in the Singing Revolution, where protestors against Sovi-

et occupation gathered in large masses and sang forbidden, patriotic songs. This eventually led to their independence in 1991.

“It is said that Estonia has sung itself free,” Arula said.

Even today, Estonia having been a sovereign nation for more than 30 years, choral music still has a tinge of political symbolism.

“During the war in Ukraine, choir music has become more important than it was during the quiet times when we didn’t feel any threat,” Arula said. “In the moment, I think people have realized that we need to be together in this. We need to stand up. Choir music is in our genes.”

Almost all of the songs on their Frederick concert’s program are written in Estonian and all are composed by Estonian composers such as Arvo Pärt or Veljo Tormis.

“We selected songs ranging from simple lullabies to really difficult polyphonic songs as well,” Arula said. “The

Jassu Hertsmann

The Tartu Academic Male Choir, the oldest continuously-running male choir, will perform in Frederick. The Estonian men’s chorus will be hosted by the Choral Arts Society of Frederick.

PERFORMANCE Weinberg Center and New Spire Arts announce 2025-2026 season

The Weinberg Center for the Arts and New Spire Arts on Aug. 7 announced the lineups for their upcoming seasons featuring live music, comedy, dance, film and more. The Weinberg season begins Sept. 6 with YYNOT: A Tribute to RUSH. The New Spire Arts season launches Sept. 20 with Girls Night The Musical.

Tickets go on sale to Weinberg Center members at 10 a.m. Aug. 14 and to the general public at 10 a.m. Aug. 21.

Tickets and memberships are available at weinbergcenter.org, by calling the box office at 301-6002828, or in person at the Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Weinberg Center LIVE! Series performances:

YYNOT: A Tribute to RUSH

World Ballet Company: Cinderella Bruce in the USA

Cherry Poppin’ Daddies

An Intimate Evening with Priscilla Presley

VITALY: An Evening of Wonders

Nashville Nights feat. Risa Binder, Christian Lopez, and Six One Five Collective

Frederick Reads presents R.L. Stine

Il Divo by Candlelight

Tuba Skinny

Dan Tyminski Band

US Air Force Concert Band

Classic Albums Live Queen: A Night at the Opera

A Motown Christmas

Eric Byrd Trio Performs A Charlie Brown Christmas

Eileen Ivers: Joyful Christmas

30th Annual Messiah Sing Along

An Evening with Joe Theismann

Swan Lake by International Ballet Stars

1964 The Tribute

The Sicilian Tenors

Steep Canyon Rangers

Ímar

Tuck & Patti

Teelin’ Irish: Step Dance

Joseph Parrish Bass Baritone

Nashville Nights feat. Bennett Hall Band, Dylan Armour, and Erin James Classic Albums Live Supertramp: Breakfast in America

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus

The Grass Roots

Paula Poundstone

The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra

Stayin’ Alive

Squirrel Nut Zippers: Jazz From The Back O’ Town

Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’

The Weinberg Center will also host the Frederick Speaker Series, celebrating its 13th year and continuing to bring worldclass speakers to the Frederick community. The 2026 lineup features Jeff Corwin, Laura Lynne Jackson, Dr. William Li, Walter Mosley, and Carol Anderson.

The 2025-26 Family Series will feature shows appropriate for all ages. In addition to “Alice in Wonderland,” events will include Galumpha, Handmade Puppet Dreams: Kidscapes, “The Nutcracker

“and “A Christmas Carol.”

New Spire Arts season: Girls Night The Musical Close Calls & Narrow Escapes: Tales of tension, timing, and terrifying twists!

Runa

The Fireman’s Carnival

Evil Librarian: A New Musical

Helen Welch: Carpenters. The Songs. The Stories. Bah Humbug

Trace Bundy

Irish Christmas in America

An Evening with Michelle Swan and Friends

Macbeth

An Evening with Chris Compton and Friends

The Best of Yacht Rock feat. Safe Harbor

LauraB

compos(HER)s II

Cécilia

An Evening with Daryl Davis, the Klan Whisperer

Re-Leaf Agency

“The Music of Laurel Canyon” by Buffalo Rome

Cathy Ladman

Tablao Flamenco

Gregory Harrington

The Weinberg Center will continue to showcase emerging artists in its pay-what-you-want Tivoli Discovery Series held at New Spire Arts. The lineup includes The Imaginaries, THE BAND LIGHT, Rakish and Jackie Venson.

The Weinberg Center will also continue with its programming of the Silent Film Series, the Wonder Book Classic Film Series and New Spire Arts’ DMV Jazz Series hosted by Eric Byrd of the Frederick Jazz Society.

Staff file photo by Katina Zentz

The Weinberg Center for the Arts

Majestic Theater announces centennial season lineup

Gettysburg College’s Majestic Theater celebrates its centennial with a season that is permeated by a sense of history and artistic excellence. Featuring several world class artists and ensembles and two appearances by Tony-Award winner John Rubinstein, the 2025-2026 season honors 100 years that have bridged the eras of vaudeville and silent film to the present day.

A four-part Centennial Celebration pays homage to the Majestic Theater’s history of presenting film, theater, music and dance. The Paragon Ragtime Orchestra will perform the world premiere of the newly reconstructed score to accompany the 1925 silent film “The Gold Rush.” Tony-Award winner John Rubinstein portrays Dwight D. Eisenhower in the acclaimed play that is set in Gettysburg, “Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground.” Grammy-Award winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra joins forces with legendary fiddler and step dancer Natalie MacMaster for a gala performance. The celebration culminates in February with a dual centennial event featuring America’s oldest and one of its most esteemed dance troupes, Martha Graham Dance Company, which features a special repeat appearance by John Rubinstein. Martha Graham Dance Company will perform a new work commissioned by the company in as part of the nation-wide America 250. This special presentation honors the Majestic Theater’s founding executive director, Jeffrey Gabel, and his legacy of presenting premiere dance artists in Gettysburg.

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Sept. 7

The US Army Band/Pershing’s Own

The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is a premier music organization of the U.S. Army, founded in 1922 by Army Chief of Staff General of the Armies John J. Pershing. The band provides musical support for the leadership of the United States, to include all branches of government, and engages in a varied spectrum of events to connect the American people to their Army. Headquartered in Washington, DC, The Concert Band has performed in venues such as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, the United Nations, and at locations around the globe to include Australia and China.

Sept. 14

Pirate School

“Pirate School: Sea Dreams” is a madcap, swashbuckling solo show created and performed by veteran New York actor David Engel. Set to an original cartoon-inspired musical score, complete with sound effects, Pirate Professor Billy Bones teaches the finer points of lighthearted mischief and offers up zany les-

sons on how to stand, talk, sing and laugh like a boisterous buccaneer, all while promoting good manners, polite behavior and social courage. With eye-popping puppetry, eccentric props, and slapstick sword play, Pirate School! is a riotous, interactive variety show suitable for ages 4 and up.

Sept. 18

Paragon Ragtime Orchestra: The Gold Rush

Celebrate 100 years of film at the Majestic Theater with one of the greatest films ever made, Charlie Chaplin’s “The

Gold Rush,” which, like the Majestic, debuted in 1925. This special screening of the iconic silent film is presented with live music by the critically acclaimed Paragon Ragtime Orchestra.

Before opening the Majestic in 1925, Hotel Gettysburg President wrote that he had learned that it would be “impossible to get up an orchestra at Gettysburg,” which led to the installation of an organ for silent films. Though the Majestic’s organ has been lost to history, the vision of silent film with live orchestra will finally be realized.

Oct. 3-4

Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground Tony Award winner John Rubinstein stars as President Dwight D. Eisenhower in “Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground,” a new American play by Richard Hellesen and directed by Peter Ellenstein. A candid and fascinating fictional eavesdropping on President Dwight D. Eisenhower at his Gettysburg farm. Experience this new critically acclaimed work in the town that Eisenhower called home and in the theater that he regularly attended.

Oct. 17

Who Turns Out the Light: Caroline Shaw & Sō Percussion, featuring Ringdown

In Sō’s latest evening-length show, the ensemble provides a theatrical performance of songs by Caroline Shaw and Sō Percussion, featuring Ringdown. This production is on the heels of their Grammy-Award winning collaboration with documentary filmmaker Ken Burns. Spanning years of working together across several albums, the evening-length performance is a band-generated theatrical experience, featuring staging and design by director Mark DeChiazza.

Nov. 14

Centennial Gala featuring Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and Natalie MacMaster

Celebrate 100 years of art and culture at the Majestic at the Centennial Gala featuring Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and Natalie MacMaster. The multi-Gram-

Richard Termine

The Martha Graham Dance Company performs “Appalachian Spring Suite.”

Maria Baranova

John Rubinstein in “Eisenhower: This Piece Of Ground.”

THE FREDERICK MOM

The Frederick Mom’s recommendations for the weekend of Aug. 15

Activities to do with the kids this weekend, courtesy of The Frederick Mom.

Back to School Skate

6 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 15

Hill Street Park, 100 Hill St., Frederick Free Wrap up summer with good vibes!

Bring your own skates (rollerblades or roller skates) on Friday evening and join this fun, free event at Hill Street Park before the new school year begins! There will be a DJ playing great family-friendly music and food from local food trucks right onsite, so bring your family out for a great time. Open to everyone; no pre-registration needed. Stay for Family Night in the Park & Movie, which begins at 7 p.m. also at Hill Street Park, where a free outdoor movie showing of “Toy Story” will play for the community.

•••

End of Summer Bowling Bash

7 to 10 p.m. Aug. 15

Fourth Dimension, 4725 Arcadia Drive, Suite 100, Frederick

$13/one hour; $15/two hours; $18/ three hours

On Friday evening, kids and their families can say goodbye to summer the right way at 4D’s End of Summer Bash with a beach-themed Kids Rock & Bowl event. Kids can wear their floaties, goggles and bucket hats to celebrate bowling in style. The music will get your group dancing, while you can also expect some other surprises. There will be face painting for the kids, giveaways and special visitors, too. Don’t forget 4D has a full restaurant and other arcade and games to make the evening memorable. To reserve a bowling lane for the Rock & Bowl event, call 4D at 240-6510160 or go to 4dfun.com.

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Climbing for a Cause Summer Festival

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 16

Tree Trekkers, 9560 Old National Pike, Frederick

$5 and up

This Saturday, your family can zipline through the trees for a great cause! Tree Trekkers is hosting their annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Frederick County and it’s

sure to be a great day! Besides ziplining and their unbelievably fun forest obstacle courses, there will be raffles, food and a corn hole tournament taking place for just $20/team (plus, each team receives two free Alive at Five tickets just for signing up). Purchase an adventure ticket and entrance is free! If you just want to hang out eat, drink and listen to music, the entrance fee is $5/person. Grilled Cheese Please and Snowie of Maryland are two of the food trucks parked onsite this day. For tickets, go totreetrekkersmd.com/events.

•••

Living History Weekend

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 16 and 17

Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 N. Market St., Frederick Free

This is a cool weekend of time-traveling fun! Whether you’re a history buff or want to show your kids to be immersed in what it was like back then, you won’t want to miss this two-day event! Living History Weekend at Rose Hill Manor Park is a free event for all ages, full of history exhibits and reenactors. On Saturday, the FSK Car Club will be hosting

a Car Show from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. where families can check out classic old cars and vintage fire trucks. Learn more at recreater.com/rosehill. No event registration required. Keep history alive by attending Living History Weekend!

•••

Touch a Truck

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 17

Harry Grove Stadium, 21 Stadium Drive, Frederick Free

This Sunday, Frederick County Public Libraries is meeting up at the Frederick Keys Stadium to offer an exciting free event: Touch a Truck! All ages can come by, starting at 11 a.m., to “touch” a variety of trucks and vehicles, learn about these big 4-wheelers, and snap some photos! This event does not require tickets and is separate than the Frederick Keys game. The ball game begins at 2 p.m., and this day also happens to be a fun Character Picnic Day where kids can meet their favorite Paw Patrol characters in the Courtyard for $25 (includes stadium admission, food and meet and greet). For game tickets, head to frederickkeys.com.

Wet n Wild Water Day

3 to 8 p.m. Aug. 17

Sophie and Madigan’s Playground, 632 Contender Way, Frederick Free

Cool off with a classic summer splash day before the school year begins! Stop by Frederick’s beloved castle playground any time between 3 and 8 p.m. this Sunday for an exciting free event open to the public! Presented by Kotei Kids Shaved Ice, the yummy food truck serving organic shaved iced treats, this event has it all — water games, inflatable, slides and playground fun. Just bring towels and your sunscreen! VIP tickets for $12/person are available if you want a skip-the-line wristband and a cup of small shaved ice. Get your VIP Fun Pass on Eventbrite; otherwise, the event is free!

Tiffany Mahaney is at least a fifth-generation native to Frederick County, and she now proudly raises her own family here. To see more local family friendly things to do, follow her on Instagram @thefrederickmom.

Fred Co Parks and Rec

Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums.

TIFFANY MAHANEY

A talk with R.L. Stine ahead of his October appearance in Frederick

BY ERIN JONES

Special to The News-Post

Each year, Halloween week descends into downtown Frederick with the rustling of fallen leaves, the perching of pumpkins on front stoops, and the hush of candlelit ghost tours. But this October may be the spookiest Halloween week in the town’s history. The Weinberg Center will be visited by that conjuror of imaginations and beloved teller of scary stories, R.L. Stine.

Stine will be the featured author for this year’s Frederick Reads on Oct. 28. The event also coincides with the release of his new graphic novel, “The Graveyard Club.”

While multiple generations have grown to love him through his “Goosebumps” series and many other scary stories, Stine got his start as a writer in humor and grew up loving comic books.

“Everyone always asks me what children’s books I liked. I can’t ever answer it because I only read comic books. Now it’s so much fun for me to be actually writing them,” Stine said. “What I really wanted to do in life was to be a comic book illustrator, but I can’t draw anything. I have no talent whatsoever, so I had to write.”

As a writer, Stine has to stir the reader’s imagination with description to build suspense in the story. Writing stories in tandem with illustrators involves the artist’s imagination to create the visuals on the page. Carola Borelli illustrated this upcoming book, as well as the other installments in the Graveyard Club series.

“Comic books are strange,” Stine said. “You write a script and that goes off and then you see a little outline, little thumbnails, and then you see pencil sketches, then you see inks, then you see color. At the very end, you see your words put in.”

Stine says he allows illustrators to create their own vision surrounding the illustrations, rather than imposing his own.

“I never pretend to be an art director,” Stine said. “There are too many writers who think they’re art directors.”

While a young Stine may have started out reading comic books for the humor in them, the author considers humor and horror to have more in common than meets the eye.

“When you sneak up behind somebody and you go, ‘boo,’ what’s the first thing they do? They gasp, and then they laugh. It’s like the same reaction, all so close together,” Stine said. “In my Goosebumps books, I don’t really want a terrified kid. If I feel the scene is getting too

intense, then I throw in something funny … . Every chapter ending in Goosebumps is some kind of punchline.”

Stine has written more than 350 books, and that number continues to rise. His first teen horror novel, “Blind Date,” was released in 1986, and the first in his Goosebumps series was released in 1992. The generation who grew up reading his books is now raising a new generation of young readers.

As far as writing across the decades, he says the core of his storytelling has not had to adapt much.

“Scares don’t change, and kids don’t really change. We have the same fears: afraid of the dark, afraid of something under your bed, afraid of getting lost. Those things never change,” Stine said.

References to technology in his stories, however, is a rapidly changing issue, and something that does imprint a sense of time onto his stories. He recalls with a laugh that one of the books in his Mostly Ghostly series contains a girl proudly proclaiming that she’s the only girl in her class with a beeper.

He also laments how many once-complex storylines can now be easily solved by the ubiquitousness of cell phones.

“Cell phones have ruined every plot,” Stine said. “I get rid of the cell phones right away.”

Stine considers staying in the mindset of his young audiences to be an important part of the job. It was as a child himself that he first began to write and learned to navigate fear.

“I was a very fearful child — a terrible way to be a kid,” Stine said. “I think that’s why I liked staying in my room typing. At 9 years old, I was sitting in my room with a typewriter. It turned out to be lucky later on. When I started writing the scary stuff, I could go back and remember that feeling of panic being a kid, and I could bring it to the books.”

Now he says the only thing that scares him is where the next idea is going to come from. Stine follows a disciplined writing regimen, writing from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every day. He outlines every book with a chapter-by-chapter synopsis. The planning and preparation prevent writer’s block, something he often is asked about.

He also avoids giving writing advice and disparages many popular adages that young writers receive.

“Young people don’t need to be told to read every day or write every day. If they want to be writers, they’re going to do it,” Stine said. “My only advice is don’t

Dan Nelken

“Goosebumps” author R.L. Stine will be in Frederick in October.

listen to authors that come to schools and authors who tell you how hard writing is. It’s not hard. You have to tell yourself it’s fun, and it’ll be fun for you. If you tell yourself it’s hard, it’s going to be hard.”

Stine’s commitment to having fun in writing no doubt contributes to the fun he has created for his many young readers.

He feels particular support from the library community. “Librarians have been so supportive of Goosebumps and me. They’ve been real champions.”

For Frederick County Public Libraries, hosting R.L. Stine is a dream many years in the making.

“One of the things that I always enjoyed when I was younger was finding a book that really just unlocks your imagination and unlocks the wonder of storytelling,” said FCPL community engagement manager Bryan Hissong. “R.L. Stine is someone who does that to the Nth degree, in terms of his creative and spooky stories.”

Hissong hopes that seasoned readers will reconnect with beloved stories of their past, and that new readers will discover a love of reading in Stine’s stories, perhaps for the first time.

Frederick Reads began in 2006 and is now in its 20th year.

“When we first came up with the idea, the goal was to bring in authors to the community and to have them talk and to foster community conversations and a love of reading among Frederick County residents,” Hissong said.

The love of reading is strong among Frederick County residents, if this year’s Summer Challenge is any indication. The summer reading program drew a record number of participants, upwards of 14,000 this year.

In anticipation of both Stine’s visit and Halloween, the library system has been concocting some seasonally festive programming. “All of our nine branches will have programs throughout October: Halloween programs, spooky programs for all ages, non-spooky story times, and fun craft activities,” Hissong said.

Activities include glowing Goosebumps slime-making for elementary-aged children, a Monster-mash storytime in Walkersville, and a MasterChef Potion competition for teens in Middletown.

On Oct. 28 at the Weinberg Center, Curious Iguana bookstore will be selling copies of the newly released “Graveyard Club” in the lobby prior to the event. Stine will take the stage at 7 p.m. and be interviewed by Kerry McHugh. A Q&A and book signing will follow.

While the event is free, tickets are required for admission.

The event is expected to bring together the multiple generations who have bonded over a shared love of the author’s stories — and just days before a holiday with which Stine has become synonymous.

“I think Goosebumps had something to do with making the holiday more popular than it was,” Stine said.

Every year his creations roam the streets on Halloween in the form of his costumed fans, young and old, bringing a favorite character to life.

This Halloween in Frederick will not only reflect the fun of scares and frights but the power of a good book and the true magic of a storyteller.

Erin Jones is a freelance writer, former humanities teacher and owner of Galvanize & Grow Copywriting. She holds a BA in English from Hood College and an MA in English from the Bread Loaf School of English, through which she studied literature at Middlebury College and Oxford University. Learn more at erinjoneswriter. com, or follow her on Instagram @ErinJonesWriter.

Relax, Frederick! How some notable locals unwind

Proving there is a day for everything — even things that don’t need a special day — Aug. 15 is National Relaxation Day. How do I know this? I make it my business to keep up on all the newest trends, plus I consider myself a bit of a relaxation savant. Just ask my wife. No one can sit in one place longer than me.

Truth be told, I’ve waited all year for this day to arrive. It makes me look good.

National Relaxation Day encourages us to slow down and smell the roses. It’s a day to focus on taking care of yourself and taking a moment to relax. And it comes at the perfect time. August is the laziest time of year. It’s hot. There’s not much yard work to do since most things stopped growing weeks ago. There are no holidays to prepare for. And, for most of the world (notably large swaths of Europe), people don’t even work in August. Inexplicably, a fourth-grader is credited with founding this day in 1985. Nineyear-old Sean Moeller from Michigan suggested to city leaders that we needed a day when people do nothing of real value. (Apparently, he was trying to get out of household chores.) He said that cleaning and real work are not relaxing. He said that too much work can make us sick, run-down, tired, “and that’s just wrong.” (Obviously, he’s heard me talking to my wife.)

With a wonderful idea like this, I’m sure he must have gone on to do many other great things in life.

You must admit he was right. It has been proven time and again that stress can be harmful to our health, both mentally and physically. Most doctors agree that finding ways to relax and reduce stress improve overall health. There is incontrovertible evidence that illness is significantly more common when you’re under stress.

American are well known for their hectic lifestyles and manic work schedules. It’s a double-edged sword because Americans want to be achievers, but burnout is always lurking around the corner. Europeans shake their heads at us when we recount all the late nights at work, vacations skipped, meetings attended and double- and triple-booked lifestyles.

National Relaxation Day gives us a chance to be mindful of all the things we’re trying to squeeze into a single day.

“ I enjoy mowing my lawn, and I play in an online trivia league — with no cheating and no forfeits.

MAYOR MICHAEL O’CONNOR

It gives us a chance to just say no. No, I’m not doing any laundry today. No, I’m not fixing dinner tonight. No, I don’t need to vacuum. And no, I won’t be helping you with your homework. This day is about kicking back and focusing on yourself.

I am no stranger to mindful relaxation. My relaxation strategy includes several items that are not world-altering but provide me with the space I need to otherwise carry on with a busy life: a quiet, solo lunch in a not very busy sandwich shop, floating in a pool and drying off in the sun, and a leisurely country drive. Ahhh, I can almost feel the stress dropping away.

So, be sure to put “relax” on your todo list. Hard as it may be to believe, a study reported that 45% of people just don’t know how to relax. Don’t be like those people.

Be like these notable Fredericktonians who told me their tactics for relaxation. Take your cue from them and find what works for you.

•••

“I enjoy working in my yard, particularly mowing the grass. It’s alone time with some music.” — Bob Smith, director of Parks & Recreation, City of Frederick

“I love to declutter and reorganize a closet, drawer or other small section of

“ I declutter my closet and drawers while listening to podcasts. Also, jumping into my swim spa just changes my stress level immediately.

JODIE OSTOICH, president and CEO, Interfaith Housing Alliance

the house.” — Alison J. Bomba, licensed psychologist

“I declutter my closet and drawers while listening to podcasts. Also, jumping into my swim spa just changes my stress level immediately.” — Jodie Ostoich, president and CEO, Interfaith Housing Alliance

“I relax by turning on some music, pouring a glass of wine or having a cup of tea, and baking something delicious.”

— Kelli Ackiewicz, program manager for Community Education at FCC

“I go crabbing and sometimes oystering in the winter for the same result.” — Eric Anderson, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County

“We find working in the garden and reading very relaxing.” — Darlene and John Aulls, president of FSK Lions Club

“Mine is finding and cooking complex meals. The hours it takes to prep and cook are relaxing, plus the payoff of an amazing meal at the end.” — Kris Fair, executive director of the Frederick Center and Maryland State Delegate

“I love to read comic books. I love that I can finish them relatively quickly, be en-

“

For almost 30 years, the way I relax is to read. I have works of nonfiction and fiction underway at all times.

RICK WELDON, president and CEO, Frederick County Chamber of Commerce

tertained and sit comfortably while doing so.” — Malcolm Furgol, executive director of the Coalition for a Healthier Frederick

“I relax by mowing the grass and doing my farm chores.” — David Hawkins, proprietor, Hawkins Landscaping

“I do yard work, specifically weeding or mowing the grass. Maybe it is the sense of accomplishment that helps me relax.” — Rev. Chance Martinez-Colon, pastor at Grace United Church of Christ

“I am most relaxed when I travel. Whether it’s a week-long trek out of the country or a day trip to Annapolis, a change of scenery and environment does wonders for my sense of calm.” — Melissa Muntz, executive director, SHIP of Frederick County

“I enjoy picking up sticks in the woods across the street from me. It’s great exercise and then I get to celebrate with a great fire.” — Ron Wolfe, proprietor, The Wolfe Team Realtors

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

GARY BENNETT

”Summer Glow” — through Aug. 15, Hodson Gallery, Taten Arts Center, Hood College, 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Featuring the works of 26 artists from the Frederick Art Club. 20% of all sales support the TFAC’s art scholarship fund. frederickartclub. com.

”The Living Landscape” — through Aug. 22, The Rosemary & Thyme Galley, Frederick 50+ Senior Center, 1440 Taney Ave., Frederick. Peter, a lifelong artist, works in watercolor, mixed media and acrylic. Enjoy the gentle rhythms and vibrant colors of the local and historic landscape showcased in Peter’s work. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 301-600-3525.

Mini Murals Exhibition — through Aug. 29, City Hall, 101 N. Court St., Frederick. A group exhibition organized in collaboration with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department featuring mini murals collaboratively created by 200 youth, aged 6 to 12, enrolled in the Parks and Recreation’s Summer Playground Camps and Day Camps. The 7 murals featured were inspired by the hands-on educational component of the camp led by the department’s Nature Program coordinator. Campers explored local ecosystems through guided nature walks and creek play, discovering how animals, plants, and habitats are all deeply connected. These immersive experiences sparked their imaginations and shaped the stories behind each mural. Open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. www.cityoffrederickmd.gov.

”Inspiration and Influence: ArtistEducator Mentors and Motivators” — through Aug. 31, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Woodcut prints by Pamela Lawton, focus is on the intricate part that mentors and teachers play for artists. Each piece in the exhibition aims to highlight and honor those who have led the way — in some capacity — for her work. Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine. org.

Invitational Exhibit — weekends through Aug. 31, Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Featuring artists from around Frederick. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. eastsideartistsgallery.com

”Floral and Fantasy” — through Aug. 31, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. With vibrant colors and dynamic compositions,

Come and stitch with the Hagerstown Chapter of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Aug. 16 at the Middletown Public Library in Meeting Room B. Bring your own handwork or simply stop in to see what the group is up to. Call 301-401-1702 for details.

Linda Robinson’s paintings focus on themes of expressionistic portraiture, abstracted still life, and magical realism as a way to consider the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world. Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Over 70 Show” — through Aug. 31, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. A signature of the Delaplaine’s Creative Aging Month, this annual exhibition celebrates local artists over age 70 and showcases a wide range of styles, techniques and interests. Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine. org.

”Being There — Catching the Light” — through Aug. 31, Links Bridge Vineyards’ Wine and Art Series, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. An exhibit of artwork by Maryland artist Ann Schaefer. The exhibit collection of plein air paintings, many inspired by Frederick’s rural environment.

feature Two Boots Farm, a sustainable, family-run Maryland flower farm. 50% of the profits will go to expanding a food health program with Moon Valley Farm and the Judy Center: Frederick County. Hours Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 4-10 p.m. Friday 3-11 p.m., Saturday noon-11 p.m. Sunday noon8 p.m. sandboxbrewhouse.com.

”The Art of Overcoming: Healing Through Creativity” — Sept. 4-30, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Sept. 4. In conjunction with Washington Goes Purple. Hours 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. 301-791-3132, washingtoncountyarts.com.

”Experience the Creativity” — Sept. 6-Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Work in a variety of media from members of the Olney Art Association. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine. org.

Weekends 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., other days by appointment. 301-466-2413, linksbridgevineyards.com.

”We Reap What We Sow” paintings by Julia Purinton, and “Abstract and Realism” paintings by Brielle Thames — through Sept. 2, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Use the A&E Parking Deck, 25 Renaissance Way. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. 301-791-3132, washingtoncountyarts.com.

Crestwood Gallery Summer Exhibit — through Sept. 5, Frederick Health Crestwood Building, 7211 Bank Court, Frederick. See original works of art, including oil, watercolor, mixed media and photography from some of Frederick County’s most talented artists. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240-215-1460 or frederickhealth.org/crestwoodart.

“Harmonious Duality: Featuring Two Boots Farm” — through Sept. 22, Sandbox Brewhouse, 880 East St., Frederick. Phylinda Moore’s paintings

”Contemporary Kumiko” — Sept. 6-Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. The work in this exhibition is inspired by Kumiko, a Japanese art form established in the Asuka era (600–700 AD). These intricate pieces made of wood, fabric, gold leaf, and paper are part of David Gootnick’s work which introduces Kumiko to the broader audience. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondaySaturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Contemporary Innovations: Erin Fostel — A Room of Her Own” — Sept. 6-Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Fostel’s charcoal and graphite drawings are focused on the bedroom as a unique place where a sole woman occupant can be free of the objectification and expectation imposed upon her most anywhere else. The work acknowledges each woman through representation of her space, rather than her body. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Seven Ideas About Paradise” — Sept. 6-Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This immersive experience in mixed media work by Julie Maynard takes inspiration from various mythological vantage points to explore the idea of paradise and humanity’s preoccupation with it. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

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Art in the Park: Baseball meets creativity at Nymeo Field

BY ROCCO GEPPI

Special to The News-Post

The Frederick Keys and the Frederick Arts Council are joining forces at Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium for Art in the Park on Aug. 15, a unique ballpark event that celebrates community, creativity and baseball.

As the first pitch goes over the plate at 7 p.m., fans will experience far more than America’s favorite pastime. The Frederick Keys will be wearing limited-edition jerseys designed by local artist Jackie Clark, bringing bold colors and original illustrations to the playing field for this special game, plus plein-air artists will be stationed throughout the grounds to paint onsite.

Clark stepped up to the plate in a big way. Her vibrant, whimsical jersey design will take center stage during the annual event.

AND THE WINNER IS …

Clark’s design is anything but ordinary. In fusing the seemingly opposing worlds of art and baseball, she created a jersey that features an artist’s palette — complete with baseballs in place of paint blobs — with a swirling background that evokes a 1970s aesthetic. The back of the jersey sports funky, retro lettering that reads “Art in the Park.” It’s a design that pays homage to both the team’s identity and the arts, and it also stands out on the field.

“I noticed that in previous years, the jerseys didn’t really use the Keys’ official team colors,” Clark said in a recent interview, “so I made a point to incorporate their [colors] into the design. I wanted it to pop against the green field and really stand out visually.”

Clark, who typically works in digital illustration using Procreate on her iPad, had to adapt her artistic style to suit a sports uniform, something that was entirely new to her.

“The Frederick Arts Council provided a great jersey template,” she said. “I had to think about things like how the shirt would be tucked in, so I made sure important parts of the design wouldn’t be hidden. It’s not just about what looks good on paper. It has to work on the field.”

Artist Jackie Clark designed this year’s Art in the Park jersey for the Frederick Keys.

ART IN THE PARK

First pitch is at 7 p.m. at Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium in Frederick. Tickets are $10 per person. Highlights include artist-designed jerseys designed by Jackie Clark, plein-air painting, silent auction, hands-on kids’ arts stations. The jerseys will be auctioned off as keepsakes. The online auction link for jerseys will be available a week prior to the event at mlbdraftleague.com/ frederick. There will also be a silent auction of souvenir baseballs decorated by the Frederick Keys players. For more information, email info@frederickartscouncil.org, or call 301-662-4190.

The design process also came with some unexpected humor. “One of the [Keys’ marketing] team members noticed that a swirl behind the letter ‘A’ in the word ‘Art’ accidentally made it look like it said ‘Fart in the Park,’” Clark said with a laugh. “Luckily, they caught it and let me fix it in time.”

Clark found out about the jersey design opportunity through an Instagram post from the Frederick Arts Council, and she was thrilled when she learned her design had been selected.

“It’s not every day you get to see

DANCE

your artwork worn by athletes in a stadium,” she said. “When I told my nephew, he said, ‘So you’re famous now?’ It’ll be fun to take pictures at the game and show him, ‘Yep, I’m Frederick famous!’”

Though she won’t be participating as one of the plein-air painters during the event, Clark appreciates the impact of combining sports and art in a single community space.

“Art in the Park brings two very different worlds together,” she said. “It shows that people who love sports can appreciate the arts, too, and vice versa.”

And for Clark, the project is more than just a creative opportunity.

“Designing the jersey got me out of my comfort zone. It challenged me in a good way, and it helped me grow not just as a designer but as a member of Frederick’s arts community.”

As the Keys take the field wearing her creation, Clark’s design reminds us that art can live and thrive anywhere, even on the baseball diamond.

MAKING ART AT THE PARK

Throughout the stadium, many plein-air painters will be stationed on the concourses and along seating tiers, capturing the ballpark atmosphere in real time. Some will be offering live demonstrations, showing fans how art translates emotion into brushstrokes in minutes.

Inside the concourse, kids and families can gather around participatory art tables. From decorating baseballs to painting small canvases, there’s hands-on creativity for visitors of all ages. Baseballs painted by Keys players will be available in a silent auction, with proceeds supporting the Frederick Arts Council’s outreach programs.

A truly family-friendly event, Art in the Park bridges sports and visual arts in a fun, accessible way. Stadium food trucks, local craft beverage vendors and arena concessions will offer treats throughout the evening, while occasional on-field art trivia contests and giveaways will keep the energy high. This collaboration began as a vision by the Frederick Arts Council to bring art into nontraditional venues and make it visible to audiences who might not otherwise seek out galleries. It’s now a beloved annual tradition that draws both art lovers and sports fans alike. Last year’s installment attracted nearly 2,500 guests, and organizers expect similar numbers this year.

Rocco Geppi is a freelance writer, having earned his professional journalist credentials in his late teens, and has made a career out of his passion. He enjoys connecting with people, bringing communities together, and highlighting what makes the people and the community uniquely invaluable.

Courtesy photos

LOUD, UNAPOLOGETIC AND COURAGEOUS

BY JENNIFER LEE

Special to The News-Post

Agroup of local artists with ties to the Frederick theater community have come together to produce “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” at the Maryland Ensemble Theatre, an LGBTQ rock musical that is loud, unapologetic and courageous.

Written by John Cameron Mitchell, the play premiered Off-Broadway in 1998 and later was revived in 2014, ultimately earning the 2014 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical.

Director Anna See-Jachowski and Jones, both Frederick natives, teamed up to produce this gender-bending musical in Frederick. The show runs Aug. 15 to 23.

“We live here, we work here, and we’re deeply invested in our community,” said Jones. “Frederick has a long history of championing the arts, and we’re honored to be a part of that tradition.”

The pair assembled a cast of performers to play out their dream production in their hometown, but this was a long time in the making. The team met on and off for the past six years. Finally, their dream of performing “Hedwig” will finally come to fruition this month.

“We could not ask for a more dedicated group of creatives,” SeeJachowski said.

The musical tells the story of Hedwig Robinson, a genderqueer, internationally-ignored punk rocker who is the victim of a massive scandal involving a world-famous rockstar who stole her songs. Hedwig embarks on a quest to reclaim the narrative by telling her outrageous and unexpectedly touching life story, all while backed by her rock band, The Angry Inch.

The story is steeped in themes of self-awareness, betrayal, selfactualization, strength, resilience, longing, reclamation, defiance and, most of all, love. The deeper lessons are forgiveness, reconciliation, reunification, and defining one’s own destiny by looking within, Jones explained.

For Jones and See-Jachowski, working on “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” has been a coming-of-age experience for them both.

“To call Hedwig a thoroughly transformative work of art would be a severe understatement,” said Lynwood McLeod, who will play the title role of Hedwig. “It speaks to the lost and vulnerable parts in all of us searching for meaning. It is an unapologetic display

The MET presents the LGBTQ rock musical ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’

The MET presents the LGBTQ rock musical ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’

of beauty, love, life lessons and despair in one rock concert that refuses to gloss over its faults.”

The hope for this performance is “that the audiences leave the theater feeling as though, by bearing witness to Hedwig’s story, they have just been a part of something important and

meaningful, too,” said See-Jachowski.

“Hedwig is definitely poignant and heartfelt, but it’s also hilarious,” Jones said. “We want the audience to feel entire landscapes of emotions as they engage with this material. If we can inspire audiences to have conversations about their own experiences of being

torn and oppressed, we will consider our production successful.”

The show was well-known in New York after the 1998 Off-Broadway premier, but a 2001 film version gained something of a cult following as it brought the story to a wider audience.

Photos by Jay Fury

Lynwood McLeod as Hedwig.

COURAGEOUS

IF YOU GO

Maryland Ensemble Theatre will present “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” produced as part of the MET-X series that was created to expand the collective horizons of the MET ensemble and its audience. The show runs Aug. 15-23 on the MET’s Robin Drummond MainStage. “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” is recommended for mature audiences. Note it also contains loud music and flashing lights. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased by phone at 301-694-4744, online at marylandensemble.org, or in person at the MET at 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

Jones first saw the movie in 2003 and was “blown away by its content.” Jones was just beginning “to come to terms with my identity, and Hedwig’s story really helped me to start casting off preconceived notions of what I should be in favor of embracing what I am,” they said.

Up until that point, Jones hadn’t seen any queer stories paired with hard rock, so the movie helped to form a core part of their identify.

See-Jachowski shared the same sentiment, in that now that she is older and more at peace with her own gender and sexual identity, she realizes that she empathizes “deeply with the character’s experiences of trying to find one’s self, of seeking it in the wrong places, and needing to overcome loss and struggle to finally arrive at who you are.” She admits that when she was in high school, she didn’t have the language for how or why Hedwig’s story felt so important to her.

See-Jachowski produced a cabaret for her high school graduation project consisting of songs and scenes from various LGBTQ+ shows and movies. The finale of this cabaret was her singing “The Origin of Love” from “Hedwig,” accompanied by several live musicians, including Jones on guitar.

“We live in a society that is so hyperfocused on individuality that the importance of community has been diminished to the detriment of our overall well-being,” See-Jachowski said. “Traumas, such as state-sanctioned violence and systemic oppression, still ravage our world as much if not more than when this show was first written.”

The Berlin Wall, which is significant in the story, also acts as a “symbol of the seemingly insurmountable binary boundaries of ideological conflict,” Jones said. “The themes of breaking binaries, pushing boundaries and seeking wholeness are integral to the

story, and the Berlin Wall is the perfect allegory for them.”

“By the end of the show, Hedwig realizes that in order to achieve wholeness, she must feel through the pain she suffered as an individual and celebrate what makes her, her bandmates and all the strange rock n’ rollers like them so unique, so beautiful and so powerful together,” SeeJachowski added.

Hedwig’s group’s “An Anatomically Incorrect Rock Odyssey” is a tonguein-cheek reference to one of the major plot points of the show, referring literally to the fact that Hedwig has been surgically altered and metaphorically to the idea that she perceives herself as a Frankenstein’s creature-esque collage of all her traumatic experiences, Jones said.

The MET produced “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” as part of its MainStage season in 2003, but it has not been seen on a Frederick stage since then. The team behind this year’s show said they

went through several setbacks trying to get the show onstage, from obtaining rights to the pandemic.

“We put our production team together and decided that we didn’t want to wait for an established company to do the show — we wanted to do our version in our community, and the MET was the perfect partner for that aspiration,” Jones said.

The team also partnered with the Frederick Center for the show.

“With the current farce of a federal administration fomenting anti-LGBTQ+ hatred simply to distract from its failures, queer advocacy is more important than ever,” Jones said. “Hedwig’s themes of existence as resistance and coming to terms with one’s identity make it an ideal production to show that we will fight tooth and nail for our rights.”

The team hopes to use their platform to support and bring awareness to the work the Frederick Center does. Donations received during the performances will go to the Frederick

Center to provide funding for events, counseling, advocacy and resources for Frederick’s LGBTQ+ community.

“Every performance of every production of every show is somebody’s very first exposure to the material, so we are hoping to instill in audiences the same passion for this story that has kept us all hooked for over 20 years,” Jones said.

The cast wants people to see themselves reflected, while also challenge the audience to wrestle with questions of identity.

“While not everyone in the audience may directly relate to the experiences of being queer, immigrating to escape oppression, writing music, falling in love, being betrayed … they may still feel as though Hedwig’s story is relevant to their own lived experiences,” SeeJachowski said.

Most of all though, the directors and cast said they want to give the audiences a rockin’ great evening of theater.

‘Law & Order: Special Improv Unit’ will return to Frederick’s New Spire Arts

Dun-DUN! “Law & Order: Special Improv Unit” makes a triumphant return to New Spire Arts stage. This fully improvised episode of the classic TV show is set — and solved — right here in Frederick. It’s everything you love about “Law & Order,” as you’ve never seen it before.

Shows will be held at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 16 and 2 p.m. Aug. 17 at New Spire Arts Stages, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Tickets are $20.

QUICK Q&A WITH SHOW CREATOR MICHAEL HARRIS:

Why did you start doing this show?

After creating “Bah Humbug: A Christmas Carol (Mostly) Improvised,” I was looking for another equally familiar story to combine with improvisation. I’ve been a sucker for America’s longest-running procedural since its reruns became 38% of the cable schedule — so “Law & Order” was an easy choice.

How does it work?

The familiar structure of the “Law & Order”

TV show allows the improvisers to take the audience’s suggestions to the edge of utter absurdity — while still creating a story that could (almost) be mistaken for an actual episode.

“Law & Order: SIU” now runs about 75 minutes without intermission. It begins with the discovery of the body and follows the suspects, false starts, and police investigation; the examination of evidence; the public arrest; and a full trial — ending with a verdict decided by the jury. There are even commercial breaks for fictional products.

Is it really improvised?

Yep.

How does the show get a Frederick flair?

Audience suggestions create the unique details of each performance. The entire show is set in Frederick. An audience member plays the victim, another chooses which Frederick landmark is the site of the crime, and the audience serves as the jury — and even asks questions at the post-trial press conference that ends the show.

Washington County Playhouse presents ‘Little Shop of Horrors’

The Washington County Playhouse Dinner Theater will present its summer MainStage musical “Little Shop of Horrors” through Aug. 24 in Hagerstown.

The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” — after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it … blood. Over time, though, Sey-

mour discovers Audrey II’s out of this world origins and intent towards global domination.

This show is preceded by dinner featuring, and a cash bar is available. Children under age 5 not admitted.

Tickets (includes dinner and show) cost $67 and are available at washingtoncountyplayhouse.com or by calling 301-739-7469.

The Washington County Playhouse is at 44 N. Potomac St., Hagerstown.

Courtesy photo

A past performance of “Law & Order: Special Improv Unit” in Frederick.

Free international animated shorts at the Vox House

CineFridays at the Vox House will present a free screening of some favorite animated short films in its free Festival Flashback series at 8 p.m. Aug. 15.

The aim of this particular series is to provide screenings of some great films that stood out during their original presentation at past years of the Frederick Film Festival as a lead up to the new SilverVox Film & Music Festival in June 2026.

This Festival Flashback Animated Shorts program will consist of 11 international animated short films. The topics range from the introspective to the comedic.

Animated short films are often the most popular festival offerings as these films combine visual storytelling, imaginative design and technical skill to create emotionally resonant experiences. Unlike liveaction, animation offers boundless creative freedom, allowing artists to bend reality, exaggerate expression and construct entire worlds from scratch. It blends elements of drawing, cinematography, sound design and performance into a unified art form that can convey complex narratives or abstract concepts with clarity and beauty.

The films that will be presented have won some of the most prestigious awards from film festivals around the world.

It is worth mentioning that while these films are animated, they are not necessarily intended for children, as they often deal with topics and themes kids would not find interesting. Consider this program in the PG area.

The VOX House is SilverVOX’s intimate second-floor movie experience right above the 7th Sister restaurant at 228 N. Market St. in downtown Frederick. The screenings are free, and drinks and snacks are available for purchase from your seat. Follow the signs and head upstairs to the screening, which begins promptly at 8 p.m. For more information, check out the calendar of events at silvervox. org or email at info@silvervox.org.

Courtesy photos

BINGO BASH

Jefferson Ruritan Club

Saturday Aug 30th

Doors Open – 11am; Game Starts – 1pm $25 per person for 20 Regular Games

2 Special Games & a $500 Jack Pot Game Tip Jars, Raffle Baskets, Door Prizes

Food available for Purchase

Bring non-perishable/canned food item for the Jefferson Food Band & receive a FREE special Game Card

Jefferson Ruritan Center 4603B Lander Rd Jefferson, MD 21755

BRUNSWICK COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

August 22 - 23, 2025

4 PM to 9:30 PM

Burkittsville Ruritan

500 E Main St , Burkittsville, MD

Fun for EVERYONE!

Great Food by Burkittsville Ruritan Members both nights Apple Dumplings & Ice Cream

Entries for the Community Show accepted Friday evening 4 to 7 and Saturday morning from 9 to 11

Entertainment on Friday evening is East of Antietam Mini Tractor pull will start at 7PM on Friday evening Pie Eating Contest on Saturday followed by the Cake Auction starting at 6:30PM to support the Brunswick FFA Alumni Scholarship fund

Pony Rides and petting zoo, games for the kids

For more information see our facebook page at Brunswick Community Festival or email BrunswickCommunity123 @gmail.com

301-663-1888 • 301-416-7229

henrysblacktoppaving @gmail com Call for FREE est. MHIC 3608

CAR SHOW AUGUST 16

Francis Scott Key Antique Car Club 40th Annual Benefit Show at Rose Hill Manor Museum and Historic Park, 1611 North Market StreetFrederick, MD Sat Aug 16th • Rain: 8/17

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 (MINIMUSTER); 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!

FINGER- LICKIN’ CHICKEN BARBEQUE

Jefferson Ruritan Club

Saturday August 16th

Pick-up 2-5 pm ½ Chicken, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese

Roll & Banana Pudding; $18 per meal

PRE-Order – by 8/10/25; Call 667-701-9467 Jefferson Ruritan Center 4603B Lander Rd Jefferson, MD 21755

LOCAL CANTALOUPES

yellow & white nectarines & peaches Fresh cut flower bouquets Cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, eggplant, peppers Brown eggs from our chickens! 106 Daily, Closed Sunday, 11434 Keymar Rd

Woodsboro, Md 21798 240 439 9401

PRYOR'S ORCHARD

Local Grown Sweet Corn Peaches: Sunhigh & Harmony Sweet Plums, Nectarines Summer Rambo Apples Also as available: Tomatoes, Red Beets, Greens Beans, Kale Zucchini, Patty Pan & Yellow Squash, Cucumbers & Pickles

Melons & Lopes Assortment of honeys, jellies, sparkling ciders

Always call first: 301-271-2693

Open Daily 7:30am-6:00pm

2 miles west of Thurmont off Route 15 take 77 West, 1 mile to Pryor Rd www PryorsOrchard com

SCENIC VIEW ORCHARDS

Our Own Sweet Corn Tomatoes, Nectarines, Ginger Gold, White Lady, Sun High, Contender & White Donut Peaches Plums, Berries, Melons Beans, Onions, Cole crops Cucumbers, Potatoes, Squash Honey, Jams, Jellies 16239 Sabillasville Rd

Sabillasville MD 21780

Open 10:00-5:00 Daily 301-271-2149 scenicvieworchards com Frederick Farmers Market 1215 West Patrick St Every Saturday 10-1:00 YMCA Farmers Market 1000 North Market St Every Tuesday 3:30-6:30

ST. PAUL'S UTICA FUNDRAISER CA$H BINGO

Sunday, August 17, 2025

Lewistown Vol Fire Dept 11101 Hessong Bridge Rd Frederick, MD Doors open at 12:30p Games begin at 2p $25 Adv • $30 at Door 20 Games, 3 Specials, 1 Quickie

*Bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank and receive 1 free quickie game Door Prizes * Raffles Tip Jars * Concessions

Tickets can be purchased from a St Paul's Utica member, OR Email: cdevilbiss@splcutica org OR Billie Jo at 301639-3199, Carol at 301-606-6921

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

Furniture/Appliances

SINGLE BED

Single bed, great condition, with mattresses Best offer 240-559-7211

36tony63@gmail com

Miscellaneous

ADULT SIZE BUNK BED

solid wood, w/mattress, blanket & sheets, $400, 301-980-5633

Wanted to Buy

COMICS AND COOL STUFF

Buying Comic Book Collections, Antiques, Vintage & Modern Toys, Funko Pops, Pokemon, G I Joe, Star Wars, Records, Thundercats, Transformers, Video Games, He-Man, Lego, Hot Wheels, Power Rangers, Barbie, Trains 300 E High St, Carlisle 717-210-1192

WORLD DAYCARE

Wanted to Buy Services Services

COMPETITIVE PRICING

We Haul it all with one phone call, count on Luke; No job is too BIG or too small

• Junk Removal

• Professional Moving Services

• Furniture Rearrangement & Removal

• Appliance Removal

• Garage & Shed Clean-Outs

• Demolition - Fence / Shed Removal

• Hauling & Deliveries

• Hedge Trimming & Small Tree Removal 20% off 1st-time customers 240-732-9442

lukeshaulandproperty @gmail com

@gmail com

LANDSCAPING

Leave the hard work to us!

Spring Cleaning, Mulching, Mowing Hardscaping

Call J & R Cornerstone at 301-473-0449

Expecting calls any time! FREE ESTIMATE

MAJESTIC

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my-Award winning conductor-less ensemble is a radical experiment in musical democracy. Orpheus will be joined by superstar Celtic fiddler and step-dancer Natalie MacMaster, who has built a sterling, multi-decade career on electrifying playing and must-see live performances.

Dec. 3-14

Million Dollar Quartet Christmas

Get ready to rock around the Christmas tree! Sun Records is decked out for the holidays as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins reunite for a once-in-a-lifetime Christmas jam session. Produced by Totem Pole Playhouse as part of its 75th season celebration, this feel-good holiday event is perfect for families, date nights and music lovers of all ages.

Dec. 19-20

A Gettysburg Christmas

After sell-out runs in 2023 and 2024, A Gettysburg Christmas returns to the big screen in the Majestic’s Main Hall.

Jan. 23

Mountainfilm on Tour

Using the power of film, art and ideas, Mountainfilm inspires audiences to create a better world. Mountainfilm festival brings together a community of filmmakers and changemakers, showcasing doc-

umentary films that celebrate adventure, activism, social justice, environment and indomitable spirit. The festival is in Telluride, Colorado, each May, and the Majestic Theater staff curates an evening of the best adventure shorts of the festival to screen.

Feb. 3

Martha Graham Dance Company: A Dual Centennial Event, featuring John Rubinstein

This program features iconic works of Graham’s alongside newly commissioned dances. This evening also features an appearance by Tony-Award winner John Rubinstein, who will be narrating the iconic Appalachian Spring and performing Bernstein’s Simple Song.

Feb. 6

Orpheus Chamber Orchestra with Marc-André Hamelin

Grammy-Award winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra joins forces with pianist Marc-André Hamelin who will perform arrangements for piano and orchestra. Renowned for their collaborative spirit, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra has played without a conductor since their inception.

March 7

Ruckus: Edinburgh Rollick

Experience Celtic music as never before. Ruckus fuses the early-music move-

ment’s creative spirit with the grit of American roots music, creating a unique sound. Ruckus is joined by violinist Keir GoGwilt to breathe new life into this exciting Celtic music.

May 1-3

Josie & Grace: A Mostly Historical Cabaret Dream Play

From the creators of the off-Broadway show “Josephine” that was a runaway success at the Majestic last March comes a new musical that explores the story of the extraordinary friendship between two of the most remarkable women of the 20th century: legendary singer, dancer, activist and spy Josephine Baker, and Academy Award-winner Grace Kelly. This mostly historical cabaret dream play is based on what is known of the close relationship between these two extraordinary women. Experience this riveting piece of musical theater in the intimacy of the Majestic’s 136-seat Flex Theater. Tickets are available at the Majestic Theater Box Office, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg, by calling 717-337-8200 or online at gettysburgmajestic.org. The Majestic Theater at the Jennifer and David LeVan Performing Arts Center is owned and operated by Gettysburg College as a gathering place for its campus and community to celebrate the arts together.

(Continued from 5)

people who are attending our concerts should get a really good overview of Estonian choir music.”

Arula personally joined the choir in 2008 when he was just 18 years old and a junior in high school. His father was also a choir singer, so Arula says he sees singing as a way of carrying on his legacy.

In 2023, after spending most of his life in the TAC, Arula took on the role of president, though he does plan to step down next year.

“It’s quite a lot of work. We are all volunteers and don’t get paid, but it’s still a very important role,” he said. “I’m really glad that the next president is only around 25 years old and they want to give something back to the choir.”

Arula plans to keep singing though.

“We are planning a holiday after we come to Estonia on the 29th of August,” he said. I hope these few weeks will help me to rest from singing and traveling, and after that, I will be singing in the choir for many years ahead.”

Ian Chen is a high schooler at Richard Montgomery who loves creative writing and journalism. In his free time, he enjoys solving crosswords and listening to music.

Thursday Aug. 14

CLASSES

Teen Time: Artist Talk - Dynamic Character Drawing — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Aven., Brunswick. Learn how to draw character poses that POP with local artist Aster Thomas! This program is for teens in 6th through 12th grades (ages 11-18).

301-600-7250. fcpl.org.

Solar 101 — 6 p.m. at C Burr Artz Library, 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Curious about rooftop solar panels but don’t know where to start? This community-focused educational presentation hosted by the Frederick County Division of Energy & Environment and their nonprofit partner Solar United Neighbors (SUN) is here to help! This session will introduce residents to the benefits of going solar and cover the basics of how it works.

301-748-9483.

acreamer@frederickcountymd.gov. frederickcountymd.gov/SwitchTogether.

ETCETERA

2025 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. See our all new and renovated exhibits, now through Dec. 13. Free admission on Wednesdays. $5, $10 adults, $5 seniors and students. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

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

FAMILY

Musical Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Music, movement, stories and more.

301-600-7200.

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

Storytime in the Heritage Garden — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Enter our enchanted garden for a special storytime and activity! Held on the second Thursday of every month, little learners will have the oppor-

tunity to hear a story and make their own related craft, as well as explore the beauty and sweet details of our Heritage Garden. Books and authors will be announced the month of the program. In the event of inclement weather, Storytime will be moved inside. Please RSVP.

Outreach@FrederickHistory.org.

Micro Magicians! — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Explore the art of magic! Our toy experts will walk us through a variety of tricks to take your magic skills to the next level! This event is free and open to all (no registration required) but is intended for ages 8+. Parent/guardian supervision is required.

301-631-9300. info@dbeartoys.com. dbeartoys.com/event/micro-magicians.

Elementary Explorers: Who Was Milton Bradley? — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Step into the colorful world of games and imagination with our fun and educational program. Discover the fascinating life of Milton Bradley, the inventor and entrepreneur who helped bring board games into American homes — including the beloved classic, Candy Land! This program is designed for children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Tween Gaming Hour: Switch Edition (ages 9-13) — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Play our Nintendo Switch or bring your own and play with friends! Open to all skill levels for ages 9-13. 301-600-7200.

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

“The Runaway Beignet” Interactive Storytime with Connie Collins Morgan — 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Experience the adventures of the Runaway Beignet in this interactive storytime! Meet local children’s author Connie Collins Morgan as she reads her story, “The Runaway Beignet” aloud and invites families to play a part! Age groups: Up to 5, elementary. 301-600-6329. MDeHart@frederickcountymd.gov. www.fcpl.org.

MUSIC

Alive@Five: Enslow — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Amphitheater, Frederick. Craft beverages and food available by local breweries, distilleries and food trucks. 21 and older, with ID.

$6. 301-698-8118. downtownfrederick.org.

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older. 301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

POLITICS

Candidate Forum for Frederick City Elections — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Via Zoom, . The League of Women Voters of Frederick County is hosting a series of candidate forums related to the Sept. 9 primary election for residents of the city of Frederick. The forum for District 4 will be Aug. 14, featuring candidates Fredy Ventura Garcia and Scott Lasher. This event will be live on Zoom.

LWVofFC@gmail.com. my.lwv.org/maryland/frederick-county.

THEATER

The Tempest -- Frederick Shakespeare Festival — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hidden Hills Farm & Vineyard, 7550 Green Valley Road, Frederick. Thought to be one of the last plays of Wiliam Shakespeare, come join us for this magical tale of storms and shipwrecks, vengeance and forgiveness, endings and new beginnings. Coming to us from Chicago, Richard Costes directs this timeless play with performances at Hood College, Hidden Hills and New Spire Arts –be sure to check the location and time for your desired performance date. Pay-whatyou-want.

301-660-8735. contact@esptheatre.org. www.esptheatre.org.

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch” — 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Also shows at 10:30 p.m. Aug. 16 and 23. The story of Hedwig Robinson — an internationally-ignored, gender-bending punk rock goddess from the other side of the Iron Curtain. Following a massive scandal involving the world-famous rock star who stole her songs, Hedwig embarks on a quest to reclaim the narrative by telling her outrageous and unexpectedly touching life story – all while backed by her rock band, The Angry Inch. For mature audiences, 18 and older.

$25. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/ hedwig-and-the-angry-inch.

Friday Aug. 15 CLASSES

Brain Boost: Apply. Ghosted. Repeat. Recruiting is Broken, Learn the Game. — noon to 1 p.m. at Cowork Frederick, 122 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Feeling lost in your job search? Learn how to navigate and leverage the process to overcome the recruitment system. Become the ideal, successful candidate. Pre-registration required. 301-732-5165.

heycowork@coworkfrederick.com. coworkfrederick.com.

Goat for the Soul, Goat Yoga: Unwind Time at the Farm — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Goat for the Soul, 10209 Fountain School Road, Union Bridge. Kick-off your weekend with goat yoga! All ages welcome! If you are so inclined, please feel free to bring your favorite adult beverage.  Purchase tickets at https://goatforthesoul.com/ schedule-%26-registration. $27. 240-405-2208. christy@gvalleye.com. www.goatforthesoul.com.

ETCETERA

Meet a Police Officer: An Adaptive Adult Program — 11 a.m. to noon at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Learn what it’s like to be a police officer from Brunswick Police Chief Kevin Grunwell. We welcome all adults with developmental disabilities and their caregivers for this informative program. 18 and older. 301-600-7250. fcpl.org.

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 either archivist Jody Brumage or curator Amy Hunt as they explore the exhibits. 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/event-calendar.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 7:45 p.m. to 9:15 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 rec-

ommended. $17 for adults. 301-668-8922. info@MarylandGhostTours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

FAMILY

Special Storytime: Peace, Love, and Storytime! — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Get ready to groove at the library with a far-out family storytime full of peace, love and groovy tunes! We’ll sing, dance and read colorful stories that celebrate kindness, creativity and good vibes. Wear your favorite tie-dye, throw on some flower power and join us for a fun-filled morning of stories, rhythm and retro fun perfect for little readers and their grownups. It’s gonna be groovy, baby! 301-600-7200.

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

Storytime Stretchers — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Story Stretchers brings stories to life through gentle stretching movements, helping children connect with tales in an interactive, playful way. As kids listen, stretch, and move, they will build early literacy skills while fostering body awareness and mindfulness in a fun, engaging environment!

301-600-7200.

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

Back to School Skate — 6 p.m. at Hill Street Park, 100 Hill St., Frederick. Bring your own skates (rollerblades or roller skates) and join this fun. There will be a DJ playing great family-friendly music and food from local food trucks right on-site. No pre-registration needed. Stay for Family Night in the Park & Movie which begins at 7 p.m. where a free outdoor movie showing of “Toy Story” will play for the community plus fun, free family activities for all to enjoy!

End of Summer Bowling — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Fourth Dimension, 4725 Arcadia Drive, Frederick. A beach-themed Kids Rock & Bowl event! Kids can wear their floaties, goggles and bucket hats to celebrate bowling in style! The music will get your group dancing, while you can also expect some other surprises. There will be face painting, giveaways, and special visitors too! Don’t forget 4D has a full restaurant and other arcade and games to make the evening memorable. To reserve a bowling lane for the Rock & Bowl event, call 4D at 240-651-0160 or 4dfun.com. $13 for one hour, $15 for two hours, $18 for three hours.

FESTIVALS

Fireworks & Community Night — 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Damascus Road Community Church, 12826 Old National Pike, Mount Airy. An evening full of energy, connection and celebration with live music, food trucks, and sweet treats, all capped off with an exciting fireworks show. There’s something for everyone — moon bounce, dunk tank, and lawn games for the kids, and plenty of space to relax with your lawn chairs and blankets from home as we soak in the summer vibes together. Admission

is free. 301-829-3722. triciac@damascus.com. damascus.com/events.

MUSIC

Bobby Horton: “Songs & Stories of the Civil War” and “The Long Steel Rail in America” — 5 p.m. at Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg, Pa. Horton is widely recognized as one of the country’s leading authorities on Civil War music. He is a seasoned performer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer and music historian, has worked with documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, and produced and performed 21 films for the National Park Service. At the Majestic for three days — 5 p.m. Aug. 15, 8 p.m. Aug. 16 and 2 p.m. Aug. 17, “Songs and Stories of the Civil War.” 8 p.m. Aug. 15, 5 p.m. Aug. 16 and 17, “The Long Steel Rail in America” program.  $25 per show. 717-337-8200. gettysburgmajestic.org.

ACMF Nature and Music: Appalachian Spring — 7 p.m. at Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church, 100 W. Washington St., Charles Town, W.Va. This extra-special concert is a tour-de-force of what ACMF is all about: great music in community spaces with music that we really love. A magical evening of music that takes nature as inspiration and is designed to transport the audience to a special time and place in each piece.

$33. manager@appalachianchamber.org.

Nature and Music: Appalachian Spring — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church, 100 W. Washington St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. This extra-special concert is a tour-de-force of what ACMF is all about: great music in community spaces with music that we really love. Join us for a magical evening of music that takes nature as inspiration and is designed to transport the audience to a special time and place in each piece. Includes post-concert meetand-greet reception in the fellowship hall. $33 general, $10 student, ages under 18 free. 571-275-0043. paul@appalachianchamber.org. www.appalachianchamber.org/ 2025-festival-schedule.

GreenSpring Music Festival Grand Finale — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Utica, 10621 Old Frederick Road, Thurmont. Featuring world-class performers from around the globe. This final concert of the festival will include international classical superstar Claire Jones, former Royal Harpist to King Charles III, Alexander Kordzaia, a concert pianist from the Republic of Georgia, Chris Marshall, Welsh percussionist, Krista Hagglund, harpist and Rachel Zhao, violinist performing side-by-side with the five talented early-career musicians in the Festival Fellows program. 804-484-2187. lynnelleediger@yahoo.com. www.greenspringmusic.org.

Nicholas Paré & the JAGS, with Absent Habits — 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Guitar beast Nicholas Paré fronts the JAGS playing hard rock to alternative. The band is known for their engaging live shows, which are described as both high-octane and calming, showcasing the versatility of their music.

It’s this touring band’s first hometown show right here in Frederick! Absent Habits is delivers heavy rock with a female on lead vocals, lending a hint of emo. Doors 7 p.m. Beer/wine for 21+ w/ID. $10 online or at the door, under age 12 free. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/programs/ sky-stage.

FCC Jazz Faculty Kick-Off Concert — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike (JBK Theater, Parking Lot 9 ), Frederick. Celebrate the end of summer with the phenomenal jazz faculty at FCC including Anita Thomas (bass/reeds), Howard Burns (saxophone), David Lester (bass), Max Harrington (trumpet), Peter Heiss (guitar), and more! Free tickets online, $15 tax-deductible donation (per attendee) to the FCC Music Program is suggested.

301-846-2566. mgersten@frederick.edu. 2025FallKickOff.eventbrite.com.

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

301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

POLITICS

Candidate Forum for Frederick City Elections — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Evangelical Reformed Church of Christ Community Room, 15 W. Church St., Frederick. The League of Women Voters of Frederick County is hosting a series of candidate forums related to the Sept. 9 primary election for residents of the city of Frederick. The forum for the atlarge race is Aug. featuring candidates Jennifer Dougherty, Donna Kuzemchak, Kelly Russell and Libby Taylor. Derek Shackelford is not available to participate. LWVofFC@gmail.com. my.lwv.org/maryland/frederick-county.

RECREATION

FAC’s Art in the Park with the Frederick Keys — 7 p.m. at Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium, 21 Stadium Drive, Frederick. Gates open at 6 p.m. Experience the performing artist Nan-Ana open the game by performing the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Nan-Ana was selected through an audition process hosted by the FAC. The audition committee included local musician Retro/ Ricole and Sky Stage Curator Maura Parrott. The players will be outfitted in one-of-akind jerseys designed by local artist Jackie Clark, which will be auctioned off as keepsakes. The online auction link for jerseys will be available a week prior to the event via www.mlbdraftleague.com/frederick on FrederickArtsCouncil.org.

THEATER

“The Tempest” at Frederick Shakespeare Festival — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Hood College, 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Thought to be one of the last plays of Wiliam Shakespeare, come join us for this magical tale of storms and shipwrecks,

vengeance and forgiveness, endings and new beginnings. Coming to us from Chicago, Richard Costes directs this timeless play with performances at Hood College, Hidden Hills and New Spire Arts – be sure to check the location for your desired performance date. Pay-what-you-want. 301-663-3131. contact@esptheatre.org. www.esptheatre.org.

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch” — 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Also shows at 10:30 p.m. Aug. 16 and 23. The story of Hedwig Robinson — an internationally-ignored, gender-bending punk rock goddess from the other side of the Iron Curtain. Following a massive scandal involving the world-famous rock star who stole her songs, Hedwig embarks on a quest to reclaim the narrative by telling her outrageous and unexpectedly touching life story – all while backed by her rock band, The Angry Inch. For mature audiences, 18 and older.

$25. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/ hedwig-and-the-angry-inch.

Saturday Aug. 16 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 flow yoga classes in the open air venue. Every Saturday, May through September. Please bring a yoga mat and water with you. Parking is available on street or in the city parking garage.

$20 drop in, $150 for 10 class pass. 301662-4190. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. yogamour.org.

Wild Color: Indigo & Foraged Dye Immersion with Kristin Arzt — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fox Haven Farm, Retreat & Learning Center, 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson. Join us for a full day of creative exploration with natural dyes. Led by Kristin Arzt, this immersive workshop will introduce you to the world of indigo dyeing, eco-printing, and bundle dyeing, all while deepening your connection to the land through foraging and plant walks. Pre-register. $250. 240-490-5484. alecks@foxhavenfarm.org. foxhavenfarm.org.

Goat Yoga and Ice Cream at South Mountain Creamery — 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at South Mountain Creamery, 8305 Bolivar Road, Middletown. Join the fun: goats, yoga ... and ice cream included! All ages welcome. Purchase tickets online.

$40. 240-405-2208. christy@gvalleye.com. goatforthesoul.com.

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

McDaniel College offers a full slate of art, music, theater and film events this fall

McDaniel College will offer a variety of art, music, theater, film, lectures and other events during the fall of 2025.

All events and exhibitions at McDaniel College are open to the public. McDaniel College is located at 2 College Hill in Westminster.

For more information about McDaniel College, visit mcdaniel.edu.

ART EXHIBITIONS

Bart Walter: Near and Far Aug. 25 to Oct. 10, with an opening reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 28 that includes a gallery talk at 6 p.m.

This solo exhibition includes bronze sculptures and drawings of wildlife by award-winning artist Bart Walter. Based in Westminster, Walter’s work can be found in notable public and private collections worldwide, including the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority, as well as the Carroll County Public Library’s Westminster branch and Salisbury and Stevenson universities.

Four Alumnae, Four Paths Oct. 20 to Dec. 12, with an opening reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 that includes a gallery talk at 6 p.m.

A variety of works are showcased by recent McDaniel College Art alums EJ Lee, a mixed media collage artist who graduated from McDaniel in 2015; Sarah Méndez, a narrative figure painter who is a 2024 graduate of McDaniel; Quyen Nguyen, a multidisciplinary artist who earned a bachelor’s degree in 2020; and Brenay Spencer, who is a 2024 graduate of McDaniel working in various media, including clay, fiber, paint and photography.

Visiting Artist Lecture: Kyle Hackett

7 p.m. Sept. 17 at Peterson Hall, Room 104

McDaniel’s Art department presents a guest artist lecture by Kyle Hackett, a visual artist whose paintings explore issues of race, class and social standing through approaches to self-representation and the constructed image. For more information about Hackett, visit kylehackettstudio.com.

MUSIC

Chamber Music on the Hill: Horneff/ Kreider Piano Duo

3 p.m. Sept. 28 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

A performance by the Horneff/Kreider Piano Duo, consisting of Senior Lecturer Emeritus in Music David Kreider and Don Horneff, former music faculty member. For more information, visit mcdaniel.edu/ CMOTH.

Monday Night Music

7 p.m. Oct. 27 at Baker Memorial Chapel

McDaniel College is located in Westminster.

Halloween-themed organ recital featuring McDaniel adjunct lecturer of music Jen Newgent, a 2007 alum of the college.

Chamber Music on the Hill: Chestertown Piano Quartet

3 p.m. Nov. 2 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

The Chestertown Piano Quartet performs. For more information, visit mcdaniel. edu/CMOTH.

Student Solo Recital

7 p.m. Nov. 7 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

McDaniel College students perform vocal and instrumental solos with instrumental accompanist Rachel Andrews. McDaniel for the Holidays

7 p.m. Nov. 9 at Baker Memorial Chapel

McDaniel College music faculty members and community members perform a special seasonal concert.

Student African Drum Ensembles

7 p.m. Nov. 20 at Baker Memorial Chapel

Students in McDaniel College’s Student African Drum Ensembles perform under the direction of Senior Adjunct Lecturer Pape Demba “Paco” Samb.

College Choir & Green TerrorTones Concert

7 p.m. Nov. 23 at Baker Memorial Chapel

The McDaniel College Choir and the Green TerrorTones a cappella ensemble perform classic and new works from around the world, under the direction of Senior Lecturer Kyle Engler.

Jazz Night

7 p.m. Dec. 4 at WMC Alumni Hall

the measures people take when swept up in the passion of love. Note: The show contains adult material and is intended for mature audiences

The Madman and the Nun Nov. 20-22

McDaniel College student actors perform in this absurdist comedy exploring love, art, and power, written by Stanislaw Witkiewicz, a Polish playwright, novelist, painter, photographer and philosopher. Note: The show contains adult material and is intended for mature audiences

FILM

Growing into Greatness: Maryland’s Champion Trees

7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 at Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., Westminster

A preview screening of a new Maryland Public Television documentary “Growing into Greatness: Maryland’s Champion Trees,” by Robert Lemieux, associate professor of communication and cinema, with assistance from the Big Tree Program. For more Information, visit carrollcountyartscouncil.org.

The concert features diverse styles of jazz, including classic big band swing, bebop, Latin, funk, jazzrock and classic blues. College Band Concert

7 p.m. Dec. 5 at WMC Alumni Hall

Directed by senior lecturer Linda Kirkpatrick, the College Band performs musical selections by contemporary composers, including several holiday selections.

Westminster Symphony Orchestra Concert

3 p.m. Dec. 6 at WMC Alumni Hall

Senior lecturer Linda Kirkpatrick directs the orchestra, which is composed of McDaniel and Carroll Community College students, as well as music faculty and community musicians.

Gospel Choir Concert

3 p.m. Dec. 7 at WMC Alumni Hall

McDaniel College’s Gospel Choir performs traditional and contemporary gospel music along with songs of love, encouragement and support, under the direction of senior adjunct lecturer Shelley Ensor.

THEATER

Stupid Fcking Bird

Oct. 2-4

McDaniel College’s theater arts department presents this irreverent, contemporary and very funny remix of Chekhov’s “The Seagull” by Aaron Posner, which explores

World Wise Documentary

4:30 p.m. Oct. 1 at Hill Hall 110

A film screening with discussion to follow. Email world languages, literatures, and cultures professor Amy McNichols, director of Global Fellows, at amcnichols@mcdaniel. edu for more information.

LECTURES

Constitution Day

7 p.m. Sept. 17 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

Maryland Supreme Court Chief Justice Matthew Fader speaks in celebration of Constitution Day. Call 410-857-2552 for more information.

Phi Beta Kappa Visiting Scholar Lecture: Mary Favret

7:30 p.m. Oct. 7 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

Johns Hopkins University professor of English Mary Favret, whose research looks at late 18th- and early 19th-century literature, delivers McDaniel’s annual Phi Beta Kappa lecture titled “Silent Reading and the Invention of Intimacy.” Email Jessica Ford at jford@mcdaniel.edu for more information.

Global Issues Colloquium

6:30 p.m. Oct. 22 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

Erin Crowley-Champoux, adjunct lecturer of history, presents “Buried Truths, Contested Claims: Protecting the Past in a Global Age.” Email Amy McNichols at amcnichols@mcdaniel.edu for more information.

Holloway Lecture: Kelly Bradbury

7:30 p.m. Oct. 29 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

Courtesy photo

Linda Kirkpatrick

A presentation by writing and rhetoric specialist Kelly Bradbury, associate professor of English and director of the gtPathways Writing Integration Initiative at Colorado State University. Call 410-857-2530 for more information.

Lumen Lecture: Lael Wilcox

7 p.m. Nov. 4 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

Guinness World Record-holding ultra-endurance cyclist Lael Wilcox delivers the inaugural lecture for McDaniel’s Lumen Scholars Program, an honors program that incorporates experiential learning and civic engagement, along with interdisciplinary courses. For more information, contact Chloe Irla at 410-857-2597 or cirla@mcdaniel.edu.

Ridington Lecture: Ty Seidule

7:30 p.m. Nov. 18 at Coley Rice Lounge, McDaniel Hall

Retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Ty Seidule, professor emeritus at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and author of “A Promise Delivered: Ten American Heroes and the Battle to Rename Our Nation’s Military Bases” and “Robert E. Lee and Me: A Southerner’s Reckoning with the Myth of the Lost Cause,” speaks on “American Heroes: The Battle to Rename America’s Military Bases.” Call 410-857-2410 for more information.

MISC

Trick or Terror

6:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 23 at Kenneth R. Gill Stadium

Community members are invited to dress up for trick-or-treating and participate in fun activities with McDaniel’s athletic teams. For more information, visit mcdanielathletics.com.

McDaniel College Homecoming

Opening August 22

Oct. 25 at Kenneth R. Gill Stadium

McDaniel College alumni, families and friends are invited to cheer on the Green Terror while participating in McDaniel’s unique tailgating tradition. Learn more at mcdaniel.edu/homecoming (note: registration is required for some alumni-specif-

ic events).

Veterans Day 10 a.m. Nov. 11 at Baker Memorial Chapel

Veterans Day ceremony recognizing veterans within the McDaniel and local communities. For more information, call 410857-2229.

Sam Case Classic

Noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 23 at the Gill Center Cheer on McDaniel’s men’s and women’s wrestling teams.

Antennae, Tentacles, and Beyond: McDaniel Biology Fall Research Symposium 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 3 at Eaton Hall Lobby

McDaniel Biology students present their research from fall semester coursebased projects on ecology, marine symbiosis, entomology, antibiotic resistance and more, including scientific posters.

• 10 AM -6

Courtesy photo

Work by Gillian Girod.

Courtesy photo

Work by Aaliyah Williams.

ETCETERA

Myersville Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Municipal parking lot, 301 Main St., Myersville. Saturdays through Oct. 25. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

Hand Embroidery — 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Middletown Public Library, 3 E. Greeen St., Middletown. You are invited to stitch with the Hagerstown Chapter of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America. Please come to Meeting Room B with your own handwork or simply stop in to see what we’re all about!  We encourage you to come in and ask questions or sit and watch us. We welcome all stitchers at all levels. 301-401-1702. darlene.11590@gmail.com.

2025 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. See our all new and renovated exhibits, now through Dec. 13. Free admission on Wednesdays. $5, $10 adults, $5 seniors and students. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

Art & Architecture Walking Tour — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Look at Frederick with new eyes. Experience the history and beauty of downtown as we explore some of the popular architectural styles, local art, and history. Tour starts at the Museum of Frederick County History, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Pre-registration required. $5, $8, $10, $12. 410-707-1105. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org.

One Vast Hospital - Civil War Walking Tour in Downtown Frederick — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Saturdays and Sundays from April through September, join NMCWM docents for a walking tour of Downtown Frederick focused on the city’s role as a makeshift hospital in the final months of 1862. $15. 301-695-1864. chris.reed@civilwarmed.org. www.civilwarmed.org/weekendtours. McClintock’s Crush Fest — noon to 9 p.m. at McClintock Distilling, 35 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Summer heat got you down? Come cool off at McClintock Distillery’s 2nd Annual Crush Fest!! We’ll be offering 4 different flavors of Maryland’s favorite cocktail all day, freshly squeezed (as all good crushes should be). Keep the party going with other activities such as live music and the return of the charity dunk tank! 202-557-9914.

braeden@mcclintockdistilling.com.

Tour Schifferstadt Architectural Museum — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Avenue, Frederick. Step back (way back!) in Frederick’s history to see how the pioneering Brunner family lived in the 1750s. You can do that at the Schifferstadt — Frederick’s oldest intact house, built in 1758. You can see how German engineering and home design came to Colonial America. Guided tours explain the features and tell the history of the family and their home. $8 adults, under 12 free. 301-663-3885. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 7:45 p.m. to 9:15 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 for adults. 301-668-8922. info@MarylandGhostTours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

FAMILY

Celtic Harp Trio — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Middletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Enjoy the musical stylings of the celtic harp, flute and violin. 301-600-7560.

frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Teen Summer Program: Roundtable Fencing (Ages 11-18) — 11 a.m. to noon at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Join Roundtable Historical Fencing for an exciting hour that includes an educational overview, visual demonstration, safety review and interactive experience about the sport of fencing. 301-600-6329. www.fcpl.org.

Mischief Makers Family Storytime — 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Mischievous stories, movement, music and fun for the entire family. Designed for children with a caregiver. 301-600-7200.

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

Drop-in LEGO Build — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Are you a LEGO fan? Visit the library to build LEGO creations and meet other LEGO fans. Enjoy building and library fun before school starts! This program is for children and tweens ages 5-13. 301-600-7250. fcpl.org.

Musical Instrument Petting Zoo — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Shake! Bang! Boom! Enjoy an afternoon of music making and exploration in an up-close experience with musical instruments! This program is designed for children and their caregivers. Ages up to 5. 301-600-6329. MDeHart@frederickcountymd.gov. www.fcpl.org.

Jackson Chapel Annual Backpack & School Supply Giveaway — 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Jackson Chapel United Methodist Church, 5609 Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick. Jackson Chapel will be blessing our community with “free” backpacks filled with school supplies, while supplies last. Fun event for family with face painting and raffle prizes. Also, enjoy free hot dogs, chips, snow cones and drinks. The child must be present to receive supplies. Supplies distributed during the last 30 minutes of event. See website for additional information. 301-694-7315. jacksonchapel@comcast.net. www.jacksonchapelumc.org.

Teen Summer Program: Roundtable Fencing (Ages 10-18) — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Join Roundtable Historical Fencing for an exciting hour that includes an educational overview, visual demonstration, safety review and interactive experience about the sport of fencing. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Skywatching: Movie & Meteors — 9 p.m. to 1:10 a.m. at Observatory Park, 100 DeSellum Ave., Gaithersburg. Kick off the night with a screening of the beloved classic “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” After the movie, spread out your blankets and gaze skyward as we watch for meteors from the Perseid meteor shower, which will be nearing its peak. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks for a comfortable night of stargazing. 301-258-6160. museum@gaithersburgmd.gov. www.gaithersburgmd.gov.

FESTIVALS

Climbing for a Cause Summer Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Tree Trekkers, 9560 Old National Pike, Frederick. Fundraiser for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Frederick County. Besides ziplining and their unbelievably fun forest obstacle courses, there will be raffles, food  and a corn hole tournament taking place for just $20/team (and each team receives 2 free Alive at Five tickets just for signing up).

Purchase an adventure ticket and entrance is free! Just want to hang out eat, drink, and listen to music, the entrance fee is $5 per person. Grilled Cheese Please and Snowie of Maryland are two of the food trucks parked on site this day! $5 and up. treetrekkersmd.com/events.

Living History Weekend — 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rose Hill Manor Park & Museum, 1611 N. Market St., Frederick. Continues Aug. 17. Whether you’re a history buff or want to show your kids to be immersed in what it was like back then, you won’t want to miss this event full of history exhibits and reenactors. On Saturday, the FSK Car Club will be hosting a Car Show from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. where families can check out classic old cars and vintage fire trucks. recreater.com/rosehill.

Annual Wolfsville Picnic — 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Wolfsville Ruritan Community Park, 12708 Brandenburg Hollow Road, Wolfsville. Musical entertainment throughout the afternoon will be furnished by Buck Fisher and Friends and the Rohrersville Band. White elephant, garden produce, and home-baked goods for purchase. Homemade soups, featuring slippery ham pot-pie, country ham sandwiches, hand dipped ice cream, fresh-cut French fries will be available. Two king-size quilts and a twin size cross-stitched sampler have been donated for auction. The quilt designs are Mariner Star and Howling Wolf. The public is invited. Sponsored by St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. 301-293-1779. likgambril@gmail.com.

Sykesville Sippin’ on Summer Festival — noon to 4 p.m. at Sykesville Main Street,

7566 Main St., Sykesville. Unlimited sampling (limited number of tickets available) of an array of unique hard seltzers, ciders, and awesome beers, all right here on Sykesville Main Street! Rain or shine. 21 and older.

$20-$50. 443-878-7844. downtownsykesville.event@gmail.com. www.downtownsykesville.com/ sippin-on-summer.

Community Event – Brook Hill UMC Celebrates 175 Years — 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brook Hill United Methodist Church, 8946 Indian Springs Road, Frederick. An event of fun, music, and memories to celebrate this 175th Anniversary with a carnival-themed event on church grounds with something for everyone. Music by Brook Hill’s Choir and Praise Band, games and bouncy house, historical displays, food and fun for all ages. BHcommunication@bhumc.org. www.bhumc.org.

MUSIC

Bach and Friends: Featuring ACMF Solo Voices — 11 a.m. to noon at The former Christ Reformed Church, 304 E. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. Back by popular demand, an opportunity to hear the solo voices of our ACMF artists in works by Bach and his friends. By friends, we don’t only mean Bach’s contemporaries, but all the composers who were inspired by his incredible solo works for stringed instruments.

$28. manager@appalachianchamber.org.

Live Acoustic Saturday — 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Shab Row Stage, 100 N. East St., Frederick. Located behind the Frederick Coffee Co & Cafe. Enjoy live acoustic music by local & regional acoustic performers at the cutest outdoor music venue in the mid-Atlantic region. Music happens every Saturday (weather permitting) with two shows:  11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-4 p.m. Performers interact with the crowd and will gladly accept tips. 301-639-1050. todd@toddcwalker.com.

The Willys — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Adams County Winery, 251 Peach Tree Road, Orrtanna, Pa. The winery will have its award-winning wines available in addition to wine slushies, local craft beer and snacks, including cheese and crackers and gourmet meat and cheese plates! The Terrace Bistro will be open 11 a.m.-4 p.m., serving wood-fired pizzas and pretzels! 717-334-4631. sean@adamscountywinery.com. adamscountywinery.com.

ACMF: Festival Highlights — 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. at Camp Hill-Wesley United Methodist Church, 601 W. Washington St., Harpers Ferry, W.Va. Experience some musical highlights of the festival! This celebratory program is a real tour-de force of chamber music repertoire, starting off with the virtuosic double bass and baritone showcase by Mozart, “Per questa Bella” featuring Sam Suggs and Thomas Coltman. $25. manager@appalachianchamber.org. Good Time Jordie, Dumb Valley, Daryltron — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Get on out to Sky Stage to hear indie slouch rockers Good Time Jordie in this killer co-bill!

Good Time Jordie will be joined by Dumb Valley, playing riff-laden rock ‘n’ roll from Frederick, with influences including Thin Lizzy, Cheap Trick, Big Star, Motorhead, and the Faces, making a long-awaited return to Sky Stage. It’s guitarist Davy Haynes in their last show in Frederick for a while, doing double-duty playing with two bands in the same show! Rounding out the lineup is legendary electro-funk artist and DJ, Daryltron. Beer/wine available for purchase for 21+ with ID. $10, under age 12 free. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org.

THEATER

“The Tempest” at Frederick Shakespeare Festival — 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Hood College, 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Thought to be one of the last plays of Wiliam Shakespeare, come join us for this magical tale of storms and shipwrecks, vengeance and forgiveness, endings and new beginnings. Coming to us from Chicago, Richard Costes directs this timeless play with performances at Hood College, Hidden Hills and New Spire Arts – be sure to check the location for your desired performance date. Pay-what-you-want. 301-663-3131. contact@esptheatre.org. www.esptheatre.org.

“Law & Order SIU: Special Improv Unit” — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Dun-DUN! “Law & Order SIU: Special Improv Unit” makes a triumphant return to New Spire Arts Stage. A fully improvised episode of the classic TV

show, set and solved right here in Frederick! Everything you love about Law & Order as you’ve never seen it before! $15-$20. 443-454-3520. gmichaelharris@gmail.com. weinbergcenter.org.

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch” — 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Also shows at 10:30 p.m. Aug. 16 and 23. The story of Hedwig Robinson — an internationally-ignored, gender-bending punk rock goddess from the other side of the Iron Curtain. Following a massive scandal involving the world-famous rock star who stole her songs, Hedwig embarks on a quest to reclaim the narrative by telling her outrageous and unexpectedly touching life story – all while backed by her rock band, The Angry Inch. For mature audiences, 18 and older. $25. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/ hedwig-and-the-angry-inch.

Sunday Aug. 17

CLASSES

Goat Yoga and Libations at Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery — 10 a.m. to noon at Springfield Manor, 11836 Auburn Road, Thurmont. Enjoy Goat Yoga with a cocktail included (for guests 21 years and older). All ages welcome. Purchase tickets online. $42. 240-405-2208.

christy@gvalleye.com. goatforthesoul.com.

Goat Cuddles at the Farm — 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Goat for the Soul, 10209 Fountain School Road, Union Bridge. Laugh, relax, de-stress while cuddling and interacting with the goats. Bring a towel and/or chair and sit with the goats … cuddle, pet, watch them play. $15 for a 30-minute session. 240-405-2208. christy@gvalleye.com. goatforthesoul.com.

The Fall Veggie Garden — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. What and how to plant cooler weather vegetables. Prep, planting, harvesting. Low effort, high yield. Presented by Master Gardener Tiger Waddell. 18 and older. 301-600-7250. fcpl.org.

ETCETERA

The Great Frederick Fair:163 Years of Egg-citing History! — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join Dr. John George, a Champion of the Great Frederick Fair to learn all about this local historic event. John was the chairman of the 150th anniversary committee for the Fair in 2012. His expansive knowledge and knack for telling the fair’s story to the public isn’t to be missed! 18 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.

Author Talk with NYT Bestselling Thriller

Writer Lisa Gardner — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Frederick Book Arts Center, 127 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Lisa will discuss her latest thriller, “Kiss Her Goodbye,” with Andrew

Sullivan, the executive director the nonprofit organization No One Left Behind, whom she partnered with to research the novel. After their discussion, Lisa will answer questions and sign books. Tickets required, includes one copy of the book. 18 and older, RSVP required. $31.72. 240-575-4496. curiousiguanaevents@gmail.com.

Tour Schifferstadt Architectural Museum — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Avenue, Frederick. Step back (way back!) in Frederick’s history to see how the pioneering Brunner family lived in the 1750s. You can do that at the Schifferstadt — Frederick’s oldest intact house, built in 1758. You can see how German engineering and home design came to Colonial America. Guided tours explain the features and history. $8 adults, under 12 free. 301-663-3885. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.

One Vast Hospital - Civil War Walking Tour in Downtown Frederick — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Join NMCWM docents for a walking tour focused on the city’s role as a makeshift hospital in the final months of 1862, every Saturday and Sunday from April through September. Tickets include admission to the museum. too. Tickets are free for museum members, but you must still reserve your spot. $15. 301-695-1864. chris.reed@civilwarmed.org. www.civilwarmed.org/weekendtours.